Got a Webcam?
Make a Video and Win a Trip to Vancouver!

There are TWO WEEKS left in the ‘Why Chicago’ video contest! Grab your video camera, FLIP or web cam and let us know why you think Chicago should host the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

To give you even more inspiration and show you how exciting the Olympic Movement is, check out the video  of Mayor Daley’s rally, which took place this last summer.  I have to admit, Chicago has one of THE most passionate mayors in the country – this video shows it to a tee!

Good Luck!

Chicago Ranks #8 in 2008 Global Cities Index

A study organized by The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, A.T.Kearney and Foreign Policy magazine ranked the top 60 global cities.  Chicago came in 8th overall, but 3rd when it comes to the human capital element.  I would agree with most of the study’s findings, however, I disagree with the rank of ‘20′ when it comes to Cultural Experience.

It only takes a brief walk up Michigan Avenue, State Street or Pilsen to see the diversity Chicago has.

Did you know that Chicago has over 190 local/neighborhood theaters in our midst?  These theaters are in addition to the Theatre District of downtown Chicago’s Randolph and LaSalle Streets. I can only imagine the amazing performances and events that each theater would host if we win the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games!

What is your favorite cultural gem of the city?

Quick Facts from the Chicago Conservation Corps

by Andy Angelos

Together with the Department of Environment, the Chicago Conservation Corps provides environmental training, technical assistance and resources to a network of local volunteers. After receiving training, Corps volunteers are offered sample project guides focused on improving the quality of Land, Air, Energy or Water in the Chicago Metropolitan Area. Below are overviews of recommend projects and how the Corps efforts continuously improve Chicago’s standard of living.

Roll Out the Barrel. The program title might conjure imagery of Lincoln Square’s German bars, but Roll Out the Barrel is a neighborhood program promoting the distribution of 55-gallon rain drums. Collecting rain water in urban environments littered with impervious surfaces (paved, buildings, etc) helps prevent both sewage overflow and also fresh water availability.

The Department of Energy offers discount rates for rain barrels, which are easily installed to garage or home downspouts. Common uses for the collected water include watering gardens, washing cars and pets, etc. Collected rainwater is not immediately suitable for drinking and presents a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes if not maintained properly.

Green A Festival. The city of Chicago host hundreds of festivals per year of varying scales. The sprawling Taste of Chicago and impressive Air & Water Show are coupled with more modest events such as the weekly farmer’s market on Division. Chicago Conservation Corps recognizes the amount of waste that can be generated from the food, cups, plates, plastic, etc disseminated at festivals and offers a “Green A Festival Project Guide.” Corps members are encouraged to collaborate with event organizers to promote biodegradable utensils, reusable water bottles, and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions.

As with most Corps program, Green A Festival and Roll Out The Barrel primarily surround education. For information about participating with the Chicago Conservation Corps, visit the registration information page on the city’s website.

Welcome Home, Christine Magnuson!
Tinley Park Celebrates an Olympian Re

Receiving a medal in the Olympics is one thing, but when you receive TWO, that calls for a hero’s welcome!

Olympic swimmer, Christine Magnuson, received such an honor when her hometown of Tinley Park honored her in a parade yesterday.

Bronzeville’s Many Endearments

The highly respected community leader and oral historian, Timuel Black, explains how Chicago’s level of sophistication, multi-cultural heritage, and quality of intellect never fail to call him back home.

The Big City with a Friendly Face

The head of cardiac surgery at the University of Chicago Medical Centers and an immigrant to the city, Dr. Valluvan Jeevanandam, shares how Chicago won his heart.

A Two Wheeled Tour of University of Chicago

John Boyer, the Dean of the University, takes us on a bike ride through Chicago’s culturally rich and socially diverse Southside. Come along as he explains how the variety of resident perspectives fosters a thriving university.