ChicagoSmarts.com Blog

Chicago is home to more than just deep-dish pizza and corrupt politicians. Indeed, it is the home of one of the greatest bastions of comedy the U.S. has to offer – The Second City. Having taught and showcased legions of improv-based comics over the course of their “50 years of funny,” Second City boasts a training center and a performance venue that many consider to be the mecca of comedy. Alumni include Alan Arkin, Robert Klein, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and Stephen Colbert.

Still, it’s not the only funny business in town. The Chicago Theatre hosts big-name comedians aplenty throughout the calendar year. On the upcoming slate are Bill Maher, Chris Tucker, Bob Newhart, and Sinbad.

Bill Maher, known primarily as host of the sardonic Politically Incorrect, will call it as he sees it on July 23. An infamous marijuana proponent, Maher never fails to address the issue in his act. Such was the case when he performed in Boulder earlier this year.

A critic noted, “Maher dropped a few pot jokes early on; he suggested that the Democrats might find more success if they took on the legalization of marijuana as a ‘wedge issue,’ the way the right has chosen abortion and gay marriage as issues to fire up their base.

“Still, Maher had nearly as much criticism (though not as much contempt) for today’s Democratic party as he did for the Republicans and their ‘inbred country cousins, the Tea-Baggers.’ The Democratic symbol is a D, he explained, because that’s the grade you get when you’re barely passing.”

Explaining the nation’s debt, Maher remarked, “Let me illustrate for you how much 14.26 trillion dollars really is. Take the value of your house, and add 14.26 trillion dollars.”

After Maher delights Chicago, more funny men follow. Chicago gets Colin Quinn’s Long Story Short at the Broadway Playhouse on August 24. On September 16, Chris Tucker comes to town before the kinder, gentler Bob Newhart gets his turn on October 22. Sinbad takes the Chicago Theatre stage on November 12, the same night that David Sedaris appears at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre.

The last time Sedaris was in the Windy City, he read from his Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary book. A reviewer of the evening remarked, “…preposterous irreverence is far from his only trademark. Sedaris is no one-trick-pony, but rather a writer of remarkable and restrained depth. …Sedaris takes the act of fine-tuning his writing and creates an intimate evening that is extremely entertaining and truly captivating.”

With a whole other twist on the comedy game is Chicago’s Comedysportz Theatre. As cited on their website, “It’s not stand-up comedy about sports… it’s improv comedy played as a sport!”

Their calendar includes Smashed: The Improvised Bachelorette Party and Impress These Apes!, which is an eight-week talent competition. At the end, the winner is glorified as the Least Pitiful Human.

It seems, in Chicago, there’s pretty much always something to laugh about or, at the very least, someone to laugh at.

Oprah Winfrey may have wrapped up her Chicago-based television show, but it’s far from a wrap in Chicago’s film and television career. Over the decades, many projects have been set and/or filmed in the Windy City putting it, quite likely, in third place behind Los Angeles and New York.

In terms of the small screen, though The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978) and Good Times (1974-1979) really cemented Chicago’s standing in the realm, the city’s role in television dates back even further. Both M Squad (1957-1960) and The Untouchables (1959-1963) have those shows beat by more than a decade. Of course, The Untouchables wasn’t just set in Chicago; it dug through the city’s crime-ridden past based stories from the Eliot Ness novel of the same name – which also became a film in 1987.

In the ’80s, Chicago served as a fictional setting for a slew of hit sitcoms that were filmed in Los Angeles, including Webster (1983–1987), Punky Brewster (1984–1986), Perfect Strangers (1986–1993), Married… with Children (1987–1997), and Family Matters (1989–1998). But that format did little to showcase the town.

Then, with the ’90s, along came a string of hour-long dramas that actually used Chicago as a backdrop, if not a key character. Among them, ER (1994-2009) stands head and shoulders above the others for its longevity, but also for its regular inclusion of the urban landscape. Another stellar medical drama, Chicago Hope (1994-2000), also did its part to shine a light on Chicago, while Prison Break (2005-2009) only partially filmed in town.

For the past few years, The Good Wife (2009-present) has kept Chicago front and center on the boob tube. The award-winning legal drama spins political and corporate tales that are obviously influenced by the setting as Chicago’s history of political corruption is widely known. Star Julianna Margulies, who also starred on ER for several years, can’t seem to get away from Chicago-based shows.

That was also the launching pad for The Chicago Code (2011) which was shot in Chicago and told the story of a newbie police commissioner using her former detective partner to help bring down a tainted alderman at the heart of the city’s corrupt web. With Jennifer Beals, Jason Clarke, and Delroy Lindo in those respective roles, the show was solid, but, unfortunately, won’t be back for a second season.

On the silver screen, Chicago’s resume is even more star-studded. Like The Untouchables and Bugsy Malone, there are the obvious selections that tell the true stories of bad guys in Chicago. Then there are, naturally, the baseball films like The Babe, Eight Men Out, and A League of Their Own. If Chicago is synonymous with crime, it’s equally so with baseball.

Exploring the various subcultures within the Chicago citizenry, fictional films also help flesh out the bigger picture as evidenced by Ordinary People, About Last Night…, Home Alone, Barbershop, The Blues Brothers, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and The Fugitive.

Plenty of novels also claim Chicago as their home base, as do a smattering of musicals and plays. When all of these artistic snapshots are strung together, outsiders still only have a two-dimensional perspective on one of the country’s greatest cities.

Cities are stressful. It’s just the nature of the beast what with all of those people bumping up against all of that concrete and steel. The constant noise, the bustling crowds, the pulsating energy… some folks thrive on it; most, though, need at least an occasional respite. And every city planner knows that’s where parks come in.

Like all major metropolitan areas, Chicago strives to strike the livability balance demanded its occupants. In doing so, the Chicago Park District manages some 570 parks across more than 7,600 acres. And that’s not all. Also in their charge are 534 baseball fields, 518 playgrounds, 24 miles of lakefront, 25 beaches, 9 harbors, 9 ice skating rinks, 8 skate parks, 6 golf courses, 90 gardens, 50 community gardens, 17 historic lagoons, 11 savannas/woodlands, 5 wetlands, 22 prairies/grasslands, and more.

According to Yelp reviewers, Garfield Park Conservatory wins by a mile. With around 200 reviews, this East Garfield Park gem maintains a five-star standing. The free admission, no doubt, plays a large part in its popularity. First opened in 1908, the Conservatory – one of the world’s largest – has been described as “landscape art under glass.” Over the years, renovations and projects have continued to transform the facility into one of Chicago’s most popular attractions.

In second place on Yelp, the Lilly Pool at Lincoln Park also boasts a five-star rating, though with far fewer votes cast. Tucked between the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Peggy Norbert Nature Museum, the Lilly Pool is, as one reviewer cited, “for anyone who needs a break from the hassle of the city.” A web of paths meander through the park passing a mini waterfall and stone slabs that provide a resting stop for those in need.

Speaking of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, Yelpers love it pretty well, too, with about 100 of them tallying up a 4.5-star rating. Tropical palms and ancient ferns create a other-worldly experience for visitors. The facility dates back to 1890 when the study and classification of plants and other natural species was a popular hobby. As the Chicago Parks District notes, “People were becoming concerned about the effects of industrialization and conservatories provided ‘tropical paradises’ within cities.” Some idioms hold true across the centuries.

Next up, we have Promontory Point. Quite simply, “At the Point you get it all: the lake, skyline, lots of trees, places to sit, walk… heck, you can even lay down on the grass and sleep if you want.” That’s how one Yelp reviewer summed up this lakefront treasure in Hyde Park that also dates back to around the turn of the 20th century.

Both Grant Park and Millenium Park have to be included here. The former features the ever-beloved Buckingham Fountain, Taste of Chicago, Blues Fest, and Lollapalooza in addition to its gardens and sculptures. Meanwhile, Millenium Park is, at least to one Yelper, “Truly the crown jewel of Chicago to show off it’s best assets.” Another, though, noted, “The Bean is really enough of a reason in itself to go to Millennium. Simple and sophisticated, it kept me entertained for hours. It’s a feeling that must be experienced first-hand.”

With all of these options, and so many more, Chicago residents and visitors alike have plenty of escapes to keep them sane in the urban environment. So, be sure to take advantage of these built-in stress relievers.

Chicago State University (CSU) can trace its heritage back to 1867 when it began as Cook County Normal School. Among the institution’s laudable leaders was Colonel Francis Wayland Parker, who took the reins in 1883. Parker stands tall in American education’s history, cited as one of the leading innovators of progressive education. He suggested that, rather than having the curriculum lead the students, the students should inform the curriculum with freedom and curiosity as their guides.

Over the decades since Colonel Parker, the school evolved its way through various incarnations – Chicago Normal School, Chicago Normal College, Chicago Teachers College, Chicago State College – to finally become Chicago State University in 1971.

With the state in charge, admissions and academic programs boomed with a move to a new campus in 1972. Heeding calls from the locals to be more inclusive, the university even established an African-American Studies program and cultural center.

Among the school’s esteemed faculty, poet Gwendolyn Brooks looms large. She signed on as a Distinguished Professor in 1990 and taught until her death in 2000. Established in her memory, the Gwendolyn Brooks Center for Black Literature and Creative Writing now offers the only MFA program in the country in African American literature.

As leadership and budgets allow, CSU continually expands its offerings. In 2003, an Honor’s College was added with a College of Pharmacy following in 2007. CSU also claims the first Educational Leadership doctoral program in America.

The new University Library, christened in 2006, boasts an automated system – ROVER (Retrieval Online Via Electronic Robot) – that can retrieve five books in a mere 2.5 minutes. CSU also has its own radio station (WCSU), along with CSU-TV.

On the athletics side of the field, the CSU Cougars are Division I teams. The 5,500-seat Emil and Patricia Jones Convocation Center hosts basketball games, as well as concerts, conferences, and other city-wide special events. An array of campus activities and events fill the calendar each year, with summer bringing two special series – Movies in the Grazz and Jazz in the Grazz.

Looking at the numbers, the urban university on Chicago’s South Side enjoys an endowment of just over $3.7 million. Total enrollment stands around 7,000 students strong, with about 4,500 of those in undergraduate programs.

According to the school’s website, “The mission of the university is to: 1) provide access to higher education for residents of the region, the state, and beyond, with an emphasis on meeting the educational needs, undergraduate through doctoral levels, of promising graduates from outstanding secondary schools as well as educating students where academic and personal growth may have been inhibited by lack of economic, social, or educational opportunity; and 2) produce graduates who are responsible, discerning, and informed global citizens with a commitment to lifelong-learning and service.”

Academically, CSU seems to retain Colonel Parker’s commitment to “excellence in teaching, research, creative expression, and community service.” That’s an impressive feat after nearly 150 years.

Getting Around In Chicago

Like most big cities in America, it’s fairly easy to get around in Chicago. Travelers have several types of dependable and convenient transportation systems at their disposal. These modes of travel range from the famous “L” system of train lines to Chicago car services to water taxis. And of course there’s always walking and bicycling.

Chicago is served by two airports, O’Hare International and Midway International. O’Hare is located on the northwest edge of the city while Midway is situated southwest of the downtown area. The city’s public transportation is overseen by the Chicago Transit Authority or CTA. They have an in-depth and thorough Web site, transitchicago.com, which provides travelers with schedules and other useful information. You can also call them at 1-888-Your CTA.

Below, Chicago Smarts looks at all the various ways you can get from point A to point B in the Windy City. Make sure you read each section because you never know which mode of transportation you might need during your trip to Chicago. Chances are good that you’ll use them all.

The ‘L’
You’ll sometimes see this rapid transit system referred to as the “El” but its official name is the ‘L.’ It’s a reference to the phrase “elevated train” although the ‘L’ also runs at street level and below ground. Operated by the CTA, the ‘L’ is the second longest rapid transit system in the United States after the New York City Subway. There are eight color coded rail lines that connect Chicago’s downtown area to residential neighborhoods and both airports. It costs about $2 to ride the ‘L’ and you can purchase tickets at vending machines located at each station.

Trains and Buses
Also operated by the CTA, Chicago’s trains and buses provide residents and visitors with dependable and affordable transportation. Trains are a great way to get from the city to the suburbs and that includes neighborhoods in Indiana and Wisconsin. Trains arrive and depart from one of four stations: Union, LaSalle, Millennium, and the Ogilvie Transportation Center. As for buses, they run regularly throughout the downtown area. Bus stops are well marked with blue and white signs.

Taxi
Taxis are relatively easy to find in downtown Chicago although they’re few and far between in neighborhoods and some outlying areas. All Chicago taxis are licensed and should have a numbered metal medallion fixed to their hood. At the time of writing this article taxis charge $2.25 for a fare and then $.20 for each 1/9 of a mile. An extra passenger will cost you $1 and then it’s $.50 for every additional member of your party. Depending on gas prices, you may be charged an extra $1 for fuel. To take a taxi from one of Chicago’s airports to downtown, or vice versa, expect to pay around $30 from Midway and $40 from O’Hare.

Water Taxi
Using a water taxi is one of the most enjoyable, as well as one of the most scenic ways to get around in Chicago. The city’s two main water taxi services are Chicago and Shoreline. These two seasonal ferry services operate on the Chicago River and they take passengers to places like the Magnificent Mile, River North Arts District, Sears Tower, the Museum Campus, Navy Pier, and Chinatown. A typical ride will cost you anywhere from $2 to $13. For a full schedule, visit either water taxi services’ Web site.

Car Service
Using a Chicago car service, like a limousine or town car, is a great way to get around the city while leaving the hassle of driving to someone else. If you want to rent a car there are a couple of things you should know about driving in Chicago. One, it is best not to drive during Chicago’s rush hour periods—7am to 9:30am and 4pm to 7pm. Also, obey all parking signs. If you park illegally in Chicago you’ll get a ticket, or worse, you’ll get your vehicle towed. It’s also recommended that you carry around a roll of quarters to feed parking meters. As with most big cities, Chicago drivers have a reputation for being aggressive. So if you plan on driving in Chicago keep your head on a swivel and be prepared for anything.

Walking
Walking is a great option if you’re visiting the “The Loop” or Michigan Avenue. When the weather turns walkers usually take to the Pedway. That’s a series of tunnels, concourses, and skywalks that connect dozens of stores, hotels, and train stations in Chicago’s central business district. Places of interests along the Pedway include Millennium Park, Chase Tower, Aqua, the Richard J. Daley Bicentennial Plaza, and Macy’s.

Bicycles
Chicago is one of the best bicycling cities in America. Chi-Town contains over 100 miles of bike lanes, 50 miles of bike paths, and more than 10,000 bike racks. The CTA permits bicycles to be taken on their trains and all of their buses are fitted with bike racks. You can also rent bicycles at various places throughout the cities including businesses at Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and North Avenue Beach.

Five Hilarious Chicago Veterinarian Jokes

Finding a quality veterinarian can be a daunting task. It’s especially difficult when Fido or Fluffy are in need of urgent medical care. That’s why ChicagoSmarts suggests you find a vet long before you actually need one.

For the name of a good Chicago veterinarian we recommend asking friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. If they can’t help you try asking humane societies, pet groomers, and kennels. Those working with animals on a regular basis generally know the best places to take your pets.

Once you have a viable candidate, schedule a time to visit their clinic. During your tour make sure their facility is clean and comfortable. You’ll also want to gage the overall mood of the staff and interview the vet—make sure they’re the type of professional you want taking care of your beloved pet.

Selecting a vet can be very stressful, arduous, and time consuming. To help you get through it, we’ve compiled five jokes involving Chicago veterinarians. Hopefully, these jokes will make you laugh before the vet bill makes you cry.

The Vet Bill
A man brings his dog into a South Loop animal hospital. The dog looks dead but the veterinarian says he’s just passed out and will wake up in a few minutes. The man refuses to believe the doctor and demands the vet do something.

After calming the man down, the vet leaves the room and returns with a cat. The vet sets the kitty down next to the passed out dog. The cat walks around the unconscious pup a few times, sniffs him all over, and then meows.

“See, the cat thinks your dog fainted too,” proclaims the vet.

The man doesn’t believe the cat. He continues to berate the Chicago veterinarian and demands another opinion.

Not wanting to argue with the distraught pet owner, the vet agrees to get a third opinion. After ducking out for a few minutes, the veterinarian returns with a Labrador retriever. The Labrador sniffs, licks, paws, and even lies down next to the passed out dog. A few moments later, the Labrador barks at the vet.

“The Labrador agrees with the cat. Your dog has passed out,” says the vet.

With the man on the verge of blowing his top, the vet leaves the room to take the Labrador retriever back to his kennel. Right after the vet comes back the man’s passed out dog wakes, jumps to his feet, and runs into the reception area.

“I told you, he was just passed out. Now that will be $850,” explains the vet.

“What do you mean $850? You didn’t do anything!” shouts the man.

“I know, my exam is only $50 but it’s $800 for the cat scan and lab tests.”

Vet Visits Doctor
Feeling under the weather, a vet from the Gold Coast-area of Chicago decides to see her doctor.

Before the examination starts, the vet’s doctor asks her a long series of questions about a myriad of health related topics. After about ten minutes of answering the doctor’s inquires, the vet gets very annoyed.

“Hey, enough with the questions! I’m a Chicago veterinarian and I can tell what’s wrong with my patients just by looking at them. I don’t need to ask them any questions. What can’t you do the same thing?”

A wry smile appears on the doctor’s face. She calmly writes a prescription and then hands it to the exasperated vet.

“Here, try this,” says the doctor. “Of course if that doesn’t work we’ll have to put you down.”

A Dog’s Best Friend
A woman rushes into a Lincoln Park vet’s office in a panic. After calming her down, the vet asks the woman what’s wrong.

“My husband and my dog have become inseparable. They do everything together. I’m getting worried.”

“Ma’am, if your husband thinks he’s a dog you should see a psychiatrist not a Chicago dog and cat clinic,” explains the doctor.

“You don’t understand,” explains the woman. “My husband doesn’t think he’s a dog my dog thinks he’s a man. They do everything together. They work together. They eat together. They go to the bathroom together. Heck, they even go to bed at the same time.”

“Ma’am, that’s amazing,” says the astounded vet. “You’re dog must be incredibly smart.”

“That’s the problem,” cries the woman. “My dog is too smart. Unlike my husband, my dog can tell when I’m lying about having a headache.”

Sick Puppy
Early one morning a Chicago veterinarian is called upon to examine a pooch that was having trouble eating and keeping food down. The dog was owned by a young bickering couple who said they had left the dog alone the night before.

The vet x-rayed the animal and discovered something large inside his stomach. Since the dog would be unable to “pass” the object, the vet induced vomiting. After a serious hurling session, the dog finally puked up the offending obstruction. Curious, the vet picked the black and silver piece of cloth off the floor. After examining it for a moment the vet realized it was a pair of panties adorned with a White Sox logo.

The vet placed the article of clothing in a bag and then went out to tell the squabbling couple the good news—their dog was okay. Yet, as soon as the vet showed the wife the panties she slapped her husband, screamed that she wanted a divorce, and stormed out of the Chicago veterinary hospital.

“I take it the underwear your dog swallowed doesn’t belong to your wife?” asked the shocked vet.

“Yeah, but that’s not why she’s mad. She’s a Cubs fan.”

Cats On The Roof
After a hard day at work a cat veterinarian returns to his home in Archer Heights. His lovely wife is waiting for him with a stiff martini and a candle-lit dinner. After a very nice meal, the vet and his wife retire to their bedroom.

About 15 minutes later the phone rings.

“Hello?” snaps the vet.

“Is this the home of Chicago’s best cat veterinarian?” asks a distressed old lady over the phone.

“It is. Do you have an emergency, ma’am?”

“I believe so,” uttered the old lady. “There’s a large bunch of cats on my roof and they are making a tremendous noise. They are so loud that I can’t fall asleep. Is there anything I can do to get them to stop?”

Without missing a beat the vet says, “Of course there is. Stick your head out the window and yell to the cats that they’re wanted on the phone.”

“Really,” questions the old lady. “That will stop them from fooling around?”

“It should,” snaps the vet. “It stopped me.”

All year round, Chicago is abuzz with great things to do. Summertime, though, really brings the goods. In addition to all the static sights to see and adventures to enjoy, a steady flow of top-notch entertainment keeps the Windy City overflowing with fun. This summer is no exception.

Music Festivals
Dave Matthews Band Caravan
Lakeside – Chicago
Chicago, IL
July 8-10, 2011
Dave Matthews invited a bunch of friends to hit four cities with him this summer and Chicago made the cut. On the bill with DMB are Ray LaMontagne, O.A.R., Amos Lee, Soulive, Ben Folds, Liz Phair, Vieux Farka Toure, Emmylou Harris, David Gray, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Gomez, and a bunch of other great acts. This is a must-see show for anyone that loves great music across several genres. The Dave Matthews Band Caravan hits Chicago for a three-day songfest July 8-10.

Vans Warped Tour
First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
Tinley Park, IL
July 9, 2011
For something completely different than the Caravan, the Vans Warped Tour rocks Tinley Park on July 9. This year’s bill features Paramore, 3OH!3, Lucero, Jack’s Mannequin, A Day to Remember, The Devil Wears Prada, Gym Class Heroes, and a slew of other alt-rockers. Warped largely aims for a younger, edgier crowd, but if you dig the genre and the vibe, jump on in.

Lollapalooza
Hutchinson Field – Grant Park
Chicago, IL
August 5-7, 2011
Splitting the difference, musically speaking, between the DMB Caravan and Warped, Lollapalooza takes over Grant Park for three days in early August. On the slate are Eminem, Foo Fighters, Muse, Coldplay, My Morning Jacket, Bright Eyes, Deftones, Damian Marley & Nas, The Cars, Ween, and too many more to list. What began as a tour, Lollapalooza only inhabits Chicago each year so, enjoy it for the rest of us! You can even nab a three-day Lollapalooza pass if you want the full monty, as it were.

R&B
Usher & Akon
Allstate Arena
Rosemont, IL
May 20, 2011
Getting the summer started early, Usher and Akon play Rosemont’s Allstate Arena on May 20 as part of Usher’s OMG Tour. The R&B upstart assured everyone earlier this year that, with this tour, “We gon’ set this world on fire — that’s the plan, baby!” Maybe bring a bottle of water along, just in case sparks start to fly.

Rihanna & Cee Lo Green
United Center
Chicago, IL
June 15, 2011
In addition to his performance at Lollapalooza, Cee Lo Green and Rihanna hit Chicago’s United Center in mid-June. When he was asked to partner up for the trek, Green said, “I want to thank Rihanna for inviting me on our version of 50 First Dates, only difference is she’s unforgettable fine. … I look forward to doing my part to make the tour unforgettable for the fans that come out and see us.” With oodles of great tunes between them, Cee Lo and Rihanna will no doubt make some memories together.

Sade & John Legend
United Center
Chicago, IL
August 5-7, 2011
Competing with Lollapalooza on the first weekend in August, the much-anticipated tour pairing Sade and John Legend soothes Chicago’s United Center three nights in a row. Sade hasn’t played in the States in some 10 years, so tickets are hot items across the whole tour.

Country
Kenny Chesney
Toyota Park
Bridgeview, IL
June 9, 2011
Most country music artists play out in Moline where they can draw crowds from deeper into the Heartland. This year, though, Kenny Chesney put Bridgeview on his route so that Chicago-area fans don’t have to trek halfway across the state just to enjoy some country music. Known for his energetic stage shows, Chesney will make it worth everyone’s while for going the distance to see him.

Rascal Flatts
First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
Tinley Park, IL
June 25, 2011
Bringing it even closer to home, Rascal Flatts hits Tinley Park a couple of weeks later. The harmony-laden country trio has broken all sorts of records in their career. Catch the show to find out why.

Rock
My Morning Jacket
Auditorium Theatre
Chicago, IL
June 17, 2011
Like Cee Lo, these guys are on the Lollapalooza line-up, but My Morning Jacket loves Chicago enough to play a whole other show at the Auditorium Theatre on June 17. Festival slots rarely satisfy die-hard fans anyway, so get your fill at this gig and consider the Lollapalooza set as a bonus.

Eddie Vedder
The Chicago Theatre
Chicago, IL
June 28-29, 2011
As part of his solo tour in support of his new release, Ukulele Songs, Eddie Vedder lands in Chicago for two nights in late June. Glen Hansard of The Swell Season is also on the marquee. A reviewer wrote of a show earlier this year in Perth, “Vedder easily commanded our attention as he plucked away at a range of stringed instruments — guitars, a mandolin, and ukulele — all the while his incredible voice soared across the theatre.” Seems worth the price of admission, no?

The Decemberists
Aragon Ballroom
Chicago, IL
July 25, 2011
Having finally attained the sort of success they deserve, The Decemberists play Chicago’s Aragon Ballroom as part of the tour supporting their 2011 release, The King Is Dead. The effort debuted at number one on the Billboard charts, so this band is H O T. Of their Beacon Theatre show this past January, a critic noted, “the band demonstrated both precise musicianship and a loosey-goosey, relaxed attitude that delighted the sold-out crowd.” Go. Be delighted.

Chicago’s Derrick Rose Youngest To Win MVP: A Look At Other NBA Greats At His Age

After dazzling fans at the United Center all season, the NBA awarded Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose with its 2010-2011 Most Valuable Player Award. Not only did Rose lead Chicago to the top seed in the Eastern Conference, and the best overall record in the NBA at 62-20, but he also became just the seventh player in NBA history to average at least 25 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.0 rebounds a game.

Even more impressive than Rose’s stats is his age. He doesn’t turn 23 until Oct. 4. That means at 22 years and 7 months Rose is the youngest player to ever win the NBA’s MVP Award.

Rose’s accomplishment got ChicagoSmarts thinking about other NBA MVPs and what they were doing when they were 22 years and 7 months. Below, we take at look at 10 former and one future MVPs to see what they were doing at Rose’s age. The results range from winning championships to struggling to get playing time.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (6x MVP)
DOB: April 16, 1947
In November of 1969, when Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was 22 years and 7 months, he was still known as Lew Alcindor. He had just been the first pick in both the 1969 NBA and ABA Drafts (he eventually signed with the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks because they offered him more money). Also t this time, Alcindor was establishing himself as one of the NBA’s top players. He would go on to finish second in the league in scoring (28.8) and third in rebounding (14.5). Not only did Alcindor win Rookie of the Year honors but he completely turned around the Bucks franchise. The season prior, the Bucks finished 27-55. With Alcindor in the lineup they finished 56-26. The Bucks advanced to the division finals but lost to the New York Knicks in five games. The next year, Alcindor was named both league MVP and Finals MVP. Then the day after leading the Bucks to their first ever NBA title he changed his name to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Larry Bird (3x MVP)
DOB: Dec. 7, 1956
Larry Bird turned 22 years and 7 months in July of 1979. His college days had just ended and his legendary career in the NBA was months away from starting. His last college game was the NCAA Championship where his Indiana State Sycamores were defeated by Magic Johnson and the Michigan State Spartans. Bird had been drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1978 and his first year with the team (1979-1980) he made the All-Star Team, the All-NBA First Team, and won Rookie of the Year honors. Bird led the Celtics to the best record in the NBA (61-21) while leading them in scoring, rebounding, steals, and minutes played. The C’s did make it all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals but were defeated by the Philadelphia 76′ers in five games. Had Bird and the Celtics advanced to the NBA Finals they would have faced Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Kobe Bryant (1x MVP)
DOB: Aug. 23, 1978
In February of 2001, when Kobe Bryant was becoming 22 years and 7 months old, he was winding down a season where he averaged 28.5 points a game and led the Los Angeles Lakers in assists with 5.0 a game. He would eventually be named to the ALL-NBA Second Team and the All-NBA Defensive Second Team. In the postseason, Bryant helped Shaq and the rest of the Lakers cruise to the franchise’s 13th NBA title. Amazingly, the Lakers were 15-1 in the 2001 playoffs. This is also the year where the rift between Kobe and Shaq started to rear its ugly head.

Tim Duncan (2x MVP)
DOB: April 25, 1976
In November of 1998, when Duncan was 22 years and 7 months old, he was waiting for the NBA season to begin. A lockout pushed the start of the campaign back to Feb. 5, 1999 and cut the number of games from 82 to 50. The Spurs finished the truncated regular season 37-13 as Duncan averaged 21.7 points a game. In the postseason, the Spurs rolled through the Western Conference and into the NBA Finals where they throttled the Knicks in 5 games. Duncan was brilliant in the Finals and garnered MVP honors. He averaged 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, and 2.4 assists. It’s not MVP of the season, but it’s an MVP award nevertheless.

Kevin Durant (Future MVP)
DOB: Sept. 29, 1988
Kevin Durant didn’t receive any first place votes but he did finish fifth in MVP voting behind Rose. For the 2010-2011 season, Durant, who is five days older than Rose, led the league in scoring with 27.7 points a game. He also led his Oklahoma City Thunder to the Western Conference Finals. To get there, the Thunder had to get by a pesky Memphis Grizzlies team. Their hard fought second round series went seven games but the Thunder were finally able to advance thanks to Durant’s 39-point performance in the clincher. He’ll be older than 22 years and 7 months, but it’s only a matter of time before Durant wins an MVP award.

LeBron James (2 x MVP)
DOB: Dec. 30, 1984
LeBron James celebrated his 22nd and 7th month birthday at the end of July 2007. He was probably still smarting from his Cleveland Cavilers getting swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2007 NBA Finals. However, basketball fans were still relishing his performance in the Eastern Conference Finals. During that epic six-game series against the Detroit Pistons, James willed his Cavs to victory after falling into a 0-2 hole. The series’ zenith was Game 5. The Cavs won that thriller in overtime thanks to James’ amazing 48-point performance. James didn’t win any MVP awards that year but he did establish himself as one of the game’s best player.

Magic Johnson (3x MVP)
DOB: Aug. 14, 1959
It’s March of 1982. Magic Johnson is 22 years and 7 months and he’s busy leading the Los Angeles Lakers to another NBA title. Along the way to that championship, he’ll be named to the All-NBA Second Team and become the third NBA player to amass at least 700 points, 700 rebounds, and 700 assists in the same season. Oh yeah, he also won his second NBA Finals MVP Award. Get this, by the end of Johnson’s third season in the NBA he had already won two championship rings. Before the start of the aforementioned season, Johnson had signed a 25-year, $25 million deal with the Lakers—at the time it was the most lucrative contract in sports history. Then after the season started, Johnson got coach Paul Westhead fired. He was replaced by Pat Riley and the rest is history.

Michael Jordan (5x MVP)
DOB: Feb. 17, 1963
When Jordan crossed the 22-year, 7-month mark in September of 1985 he was basking in his Rookie of the Year award and getting ready for what would be a disastrous 1985-1986 season. In Chicago’s third game of the season Jordan would break his foot. Many thought his “Airness” would miss the entire season, but he returned after 64 games. While the season would result in his lowest scoring output as a Bull, just 22.7 points a game, and a first round sweep at the hands of the Celtics, it did produce one of those legendary Jordan moments. In Game 2 of the series (which took place in Boston and went into double overtime), Jordan scored 63 points to establish a single-game playoff scoring record.

Steve Nash (2x MVP)
DOB: Feb. 7, 1974
In September of 1996, Steve Nash was turning 22 years and 7 months and preparing for his first NBA season. He had just been selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 15th pick in the 1996 NBA Draft. Before that he led the Santa Clara Broncos to a first round upset over #7 seed Maryland in the NCAA Tournament. In his first season in the Association, Nash started just two games. He averaged 3.3 points and 2.1 assists. It would be awhile before Nash would play MVP-caliber ball.

Dirk Nowitzki (1x MVP)
DOB: June 19, 1978
When Dirk Nowitzki was 22 years and 7 months old it was January of 2001 and he was in the middle of his third NBA season. It was a breakout year for the German as it was the first time he averaged more than 20 points (21.8) and more than nine rebounds (9.2) a game. When it was all said and done, Nowitzki was named to the All-NBA Third Team. In the playoffs, Nowitzki led Dallas to a first round victory over the Utah Jazz before getting dispatched by the San Antonio Spurs. Still, it was the first time the Mavs qualified for the postseason since 1990 and the first time they won a playoff series since 1988.

Shaquille O’Neal (1x MVP)
DOB: March 6, 1972
In October of 1994, Shaquille O’Neal turned 22 years and 7 months and was beginning his third NBA season. He was coming off a year where he averaged 29.3 points a game. He would duplicate that mark exactly in the upcoming 1994-1995 season. In the 1995 NBA Playoffs, Shaq led the Orlando Magic all the way to the Finals where they were swept by the Houston Rockets. But who cares about all that stuff? Earlier in 1994 Shaq’s made his cinematic debut in the movie “Blue Chips.” Then in November, when Shaq was 22 years and 8 months old, he released his second album, “Shaq Fu: Da Return.” “Most valuable player” more like “most valuable performer.”

With spring quickly fading, a lot of folks are dusting off their shorts and flip flops, readying themselves for hot fun in the summertime. In Chicago, that means different things to different people. For a lot of them, it’s baseball, baseball, baseball. Still, for others, there’s a whole city to explore and experience.

Some of the top sights in the Windy City are even more glorious under the shimmering summer sun. Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and Lake Michigan certainly have their individual appeals.

Navy Pier boasts a wealth of entertainment for the young and old. It houses the Chicago Children’s Museum, an IMAX theater, a park replete with carnival rides, a beer garden featuring live music, and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass. Various boat rides also launch from the Pier.

Those seeking a maritime adventure can either hop on the speedboats, the Architectural slow cruisers, or the Tall Ships to enjoy the Lake. Ticket prices vary. For the Tall Ships, the range is from about $25 to $65, depending on the boat and the tour. Kids are down in the $20-25 neighborhood.

If you’re at Navy Pier and you prefer to see the city from a different perspective, the summer brings Aeroballoon Chicago back to life with helium-filled balloon rides. Alternately, rent a bike and sight-see from ground level.

When it comes to entertainment, the Ravinia Festival is Chicago’s “sound of summer.” This year’s slate includes The Judds, Robert Plant, k.d. lang, Dave Brubeck, Maroon 5, Jennifer Hudson, Steely Dan, and many more. Classical and classic programs also fill the calendar – from Yo-Yo Ma to Tony Bennett. Even Garrison Keillor brings A Prairie Home Companion to Ravinia on June 25.

Fans of edgier music also have Lollapalooza at the ready in Chicago’s Grant Park August 5-7. The line-up there features Eminem, Muse, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Cee-Lo Green, The Cars, and about a gazillion other bands.

Taste of Chicago, which runs from June 24 to July 3 at the Petrillo Music Shell, brings a whole other flavor to the palette. Latin music, gospel music, world music, Celtic music, country music… it’s all there. Even Broadway show tunes and Natalie Cole are on the agenda.

Lovers of cinema will be pleased to know that the Movies in the Parks series gets underway on June 14 at Belmont Harbor and Montgomery Ward Park (formerly Erie Park). The wide array of offerings includes North by Northwest, The Karate Kid, Airplane!, A League of Their Own, Catfish, The Dark Knight, The Social Network, and a slew of others.

If all of those choices still aren’t enough, there are always sporting events and concerts at the United Center, guided tours, and other myriad things to do both uptown and down. Chicago really does have something for everybody.

Chicago’s Navy Pier: A Destination For Tourists & Locals

It sounds like a place you’d go when you want to buy a polo shirt for $9.99. But it’s actually the Midwest’s number one tourist attraction hosting nearly 9 million visitors a year. I am of course talking about the world famous Navy Pier.

The Chicago landmark is situated on Lake Michigan, east of the Windy City’s downtown area. The 3,300 foot long pier, in the shape of a rectangle and running west to east, is home to a variety of entertainment attractions, thrill rides, exhibition facilities, restaurants, and retail shops. The pier is free to visit although most of the attractions mentioned in this article require an admission fee. You’ll also need to pay for parking.

One of the pier’s most visible attractions is its 150 foot-high Ferris wheel. Operating year-around, this amusement ride is modeled after the very first Ferris wheel which was constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago. A ride on the Navy Pier’s Ferris wheel takes about seven minutes.

Other big-time attractions at the pier include the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Pepsi Skyline Stage, the Landshark Beer Garden, Crystal Gardens, the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, and the Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze.

They don’t call Navy Pier a “pier” for nothing. It’s an actual working pier on Lake Michigan; you’ll find moored boats there and everything. It’s also the launching point for speedboat rides, sightseeing tours, and dinner cruises. It doesn’t matter if you want to explore Lake Michigan or the Chicago River, it doesn’t matter if you want to cruise in luxury or take a causal jaunt on the waves, there’s a charter for every whim at Navy Pier.

The entrance to Navy Pier is framed by Gateway Park. This 19-acre park not only welcomes visitors to the pier but it provides a buffer between vehicles and pedestrians. Gateway Park’s main attraction is a large computerized foundation created by the same team that created the Fountains of Bellagio at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The first section of Navy Pier is the Family Pavilion. This area is home to the aforementioned 50,000-square-foot Children’s Museum and the awe-inspiring Crystal Gardens—a six-story glass atrium that houses more than 70 full-size palm trees. The Family Pavilion also contains several restaurants and retail shops.

The next section is called Pier Park and it’s home to the previously mentioned Ferris wheel, a musical carousel, a swing ride, remote control boats, the Light Tower Ride, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. Additionally, Pier Park is where you’ll find the 1,500-seat Pepsi Skyline Stage. This venue hosts a number of concerts and events in the spring and summer.

Running alongside Pier Park is Dock Street. This area is only open to walkers, bicyclists, and joggers. Here you’ll find retail shops and restaurants as well as the Funhouse Maze and the Shakespeare Theater. This is a great place to come and people-watch. On select nights during the summer Dock Street puts on an exciting fireworks display.

East of both Pier Park and Dock Street is Festival Hall. This facility is designed to host exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, receptions, and art shows. It has more than 170,000 square feet of exhibit space which can be split into two sections. This area of Navy Pier is also where you’ll find the Museum of Stained Glass and the Dock Street Café.

At pier’s eastern-most tip, is the East End. Visitors come here for breathtaking views of the skyline and the lakefront. This historic part of Navy Pier is great for picnics and strolls. It’s also home to the Grand Ballroom. That facility opened in 1916 and is still a popular banquet and exhibition space. The main feature of this historic building is its 80-foot doomed ceiling.

The Grand Ballroom opened in 1916 along with the rest of Navy Pier. It was built for $4.5 million with construction beginning in 1914. From the very beginning, Navy Pier was used as both an active dock and a place for the public to gather and be entertained. In the days before air-conditioning, the Pier was literally a cool place to hangout.

During World War I, the pier housed soldiers, Home Defense units, and the Red Cross. The vital role the pier played in World War I led to it being officially named “Navy Pier” in 1927.

The public began recreating at Navy Pier more and more in the 1930’s. That ended however when World War II broke out and the U.S. Navy leased the pier to use as a training ground for sailors and pilots. One of most famous pilots to be trained during this time was President George H.W. Bush.

In the 1950’s, the Pier once again returned to being a recreation and entertainment destination for tourists and Chicago residents. During this era, the pier averaged more than 3 million visitors a year.

From the mid-1960’s until the end of the 1980’s, the pier was vastly underused. That changed when the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority took over the facility in 1989. They made major renovations to just about every aspect of the pier and eventually sculpted the site into what it is today.

Before visiting Navy Pier, ChicagoSmarts recommends that you check with their Web site for hours of operation (especially for particular attractions), admission prices, and the best places to park.

Navy Pier is one of those rare destinations that are both appealing to tourists and to residents. It’s unique enough to draw visitors from out-of-town but possesses enough charm and character to attract life-long Chicagoans.