Archive for the ‘Culture’ Category

Shorty’s Tall Ship Chicago 2010 Experience

September 1st, 2010 by Shorty

I had the pleasure of experiencing Tall Ship Chicago 2010 this past weekend, and I was impressed.  Twenty tall ships from the USA, Canada, Germany and the Netherlands wowed Chicagoans and visitors from August 24 – 29th.  Some ships were for boarding and tours and others were for sailaways.  This was the only year all ships were were located at Navy Pier only. Previously, they were docked throughout the city.

The intricate details of the ships’ designs were amazing.  Whomever tied the knots in the rope had much patience and skills.  Each ship had a personality all its own which added to the beauty of it.

Guests had passports that described the different ships, and were able to get them stamped whether they toured the vessels or not.   That was fun and engaging.

Another lesson: to be called a sailor is not a compliment.  Apparently, they were the lowest of the low in some social circles. They also ate from their elbows which is probably why it is ill-mannered to have elbows on the table while eating.  Lots of class-ism on water.

Overall, it was a good time.  I’m looking forward to the next Chicago adventure.

Did you go to Tall Ships Chicago 2010?  How was your experience?

The Power of House Music

August 29th, 2010 by Shorty

I Love House Music

House Music (House) first graced the airwaves in the late 70s.  It is over 25 years later, and this unique sound is still massaging the eardrums of Generation Xers and late Baby Boomers. A culture of “househeads”, diversity and individualism was created from the music styles of Farley “Jackmaster” Funk, Frankie Knuckles, the original members of Hot Mix 5, Terry Hunter, and Steve “Silk” Hurley.

House is more than just music.  It is a feeling.  The passion of the creators and DJs can be felt through the mixes they create that reverberate through the huge speakers that rock the “house”.

In fact, House was somewhat of a miracle. These beats and mixes shattered barriers of race and sexual preference at a time when political and social efforts to achieve these goals were not very successful.  Additionally, fashion styles and dance crazes emerged as a result of this awesome musical style.

House Music Will Never Die.  How do I know?  Check out the following figures.

  • Over 20,000 people attended the 20th Annual Chosen Few Picnic in Jackson Park in Chicago
  • Over 18,000 like the Old School House Heads page on Facebook
  • Nearly 49,000 like Old School House Music

What are your feelings on house music?  How has it impacted your life?

21st Annual African Festival of the Arts – September 3 – 6

August 27th, 2010 by Shorty

African Festival of the Arts Chicago 2010

Photos from Jackson Park Tour – August 21 2010

August 26th, 2010 by Shorty

I should be ashamed to admit that I didn’t know much about the South Side even though I was born and raised here prior to becoming Your South side Resource.  In addition to reading books to gain knowledge, I am seeking out tours and other events to educate myself .

I joined the Windy City Tours group on a Jackson Park on Saturday August21, 2010.  Headed by Joe Steffan, we learned about The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, Osaka Garden and a host of other interesting facts.  Since much of the information  escapes me right now, here are a few photos to fill in the blanks.

Enjoy!

The Harlem Theatre of Chicago Need African American Actors

August 17th, 2010 by Shorty

Harlem Theater Company of Chicago

The Harlem Theatre Company of Chicago will be holding auditions for upcoming productions of Zooman and the Sign at ETA Creative Arts Foundations located at 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. on Aug 23rd and 24th from 6-9PM on both days.

African American actors between the ages of 15-60 are needed.

For further information contact Reggie Glover at 773.886.0124.

Art di Gras V at Gallery Guichard – August 14th

August 12th, 2010 by Shorty

Gallery Guichard - Agust 14 2010


Shorty’s Photos from The Black Women’s Expo

August 10th, 2010 by Shorty

Here are a few photos from my visit to 2010 The Black Women’s Expo at McCormick Place from August 17 – 18, 2010. I had the opportunity to speak with entrepreneurs, authors, musicians, beauty specialists and just a lot of people with beautiful spirits.

I was pleased to see all of the information available to address health issues in the African American community. This expo is proof of the genius, talents and creativity in the black community. Now, if the dollars can stay in the community for a few rotations before leaving out, communities can begin to build and possibly heal.

Shedd Explorers: Sail the Great Lakes – August 14th

August 6th, 2010 by Shorty

Sail the Great Lakes

Explore the waters of Lake Michigan!  Set sail with Shedd and observe the natural beauty of one of our Great Lakes. Light lunch and travel included. Program meets at Shedd.

Aug. 14, 9 a.m-1p.m.
$22 ($17 Shedd members)

To register, please call 312-692-3206

81st Annual Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic – August 14th

August 3rd, 2010 by Shorty

Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic

The historic parade begins around 39th South King Drive and ends in Washington Park where thousands of people gather for picnics. This is the oldest African American parade in Chicago with “last year’s festivities seeing over 75,000 participants, 1.5 million people along the parade route and over 25 million watching in their homes around the country,” according to Bud Billiken’s website.

Get there early so you can get a good spot!

38th Annual Fiesta del Sol – July 29 – August 1st

July 29th, 2010 by Shorty

Fiesta Del Sol

The Pilsen Neighbors Community Council is hosting its 38th annual “Fiesta del Sol” on July 29 through August 1.

This years theme, “Celebrando Indepencia y Revolucion” celebrates 200 years of Mexican independence and 100 years since the beginning of the revolution.

Times:

  • Thursday, July 29:  5pm – 10pm
  • Friday, July 30:  11am – 11pm
  • Saturday, July 31: 11am – 11pm
  • Sunday, Aug 1:  11am – 11pm

$5 parking on Morgan and 21 St.

Fiesta del Sol prides itself in being the largest Latino festival in the midwest, as well as tobacco and alcohol free.

Visit Fiesta Del Sol for more information.