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Friday, March 29

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June 2005

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Derailroaded: "Wild Man" Fischer doc @ Film Center

Derailroaded is a 2005 documentary that introduces the viewer to Larry "Wild Man" Fischer, a street musician from LA who got committed to mental institutions twice, yet ended up having a fairly productive career: Frank Zappa recorded him on his Bizarre label, Rhino Records put out a 45 of Fischer back when it was still just a record store, and he cut a duet with Rosemary Clooney (no, really). Derailroaded screens tonight at 8:00. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Steve Weintraub, teaching Freylakhs, Sher, Bulgar, Zhok and Patchtanz; and the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Opening: The Pain and the Itch, Steppenwolf

Steppenwolf premieres Bruce Norris's dark comedy about family dysfunction. Opens tonight and runs through August 28. Tickets $20-60. See here for full schedule and ordering information.

FitzGerald's American Music Festival

FitzGerald's, 6615 W. Roosevelt Rd. in Berwyn, throws its 24th annual American Music Festival this weekend, and the stages are loaded with great acts. Today's line-up includes Jeff and Vida, the Chicago Salty Dogs, Paul Cebar and the Milwaukeeans, The Lee Boys, Jimmy LaFave, The Hoyle Brothers, Hacienda Brothers, Bill Kirchen and Too Much Fun, and the legendary Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Doors open today at 4:30pm. Tickets are $20 today, $25 for the other dates -- if you get there early (before 6pm today) you get $5 off admission. Check this PDF calendar for the full festival listings.

EstroDance

Put on your dancing shoes and head to Martyr's tonight for swing lessons and a tribute to the great ladies of jazz and blues. Local musicians will be channeling their inner chanteuse and they'll swingin' and swayin' and money-raisin' for EstroJam. Dance lessons start at 7:30 and music starts at 8:30, the dancing won't stop till they make last call. Hopefully you got your ticket aheadd of time cause they're $15 at the door and $12 ahead of time, order them online.

Local musicians: Lexie Bloor, Ingrid Graudins, Screamin Rachel, Dawn O’Keefe, Andrea Bunch & Aerin Tedesco, Stolie, Meisha Herron, Jennifer Schaffer,Rebeka Foy, Leah Moyers, Beka Foy, Karen Irwin, Rebecca Toon and Kristin Equi

South Asian Literary Festival Fundraiser

Support the Kriti Festival, Chicago's first South Asian Literary Festival with a fundraiser at Monsoon tonight from 5:30-7:30pm. A $10 donation will support the Kriti festival, which will take place November 10-13 and will earn you $5 martinis, $5 cosmopolitans, and free appetizers. Monsoon is located at 2813 N. Broadway. Kriti (which means "Creation") will be the first  South Asian literary festival in the Midwest. International-bestselling author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni ("Mistress of Spices," "Sister of My Heart," "Queen of Dreams") will be the guest of honor, heading a list of writers, agents, and editors of South Asian fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature. Daytime events will include author panels, readings, and workshops, with evening entertainment by nationally known South Asian theater, dance, and music groups. Kriti is sponsored by DesiLit, a national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting South Asian writers.  Co-sponsors of the festival include the State of Illinois and City of Chicago, Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, Depaul University, and Roosevelt University. More information is available at the Kriti Festival online or email Sujata at sujbhat@gmail.com.

Kwik Stop @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents a tribute to film critic Roger Ebert's annual Overlooked Film Festival with the 2001 movie Kwik Stop, which played at the 2002 festival. Kwik Stop is described by Variety as "It Happened One Night as reimagined by David Lynch or Hal Hartley", which sounds interesting enough for me. Both Ebert and the film's director & star, Michael Gilio, will be in attendance for the screening. Kwik Stop screens at 8:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $7 for all students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: DJ Lego and DJ Jesse de la Pena, playing house & Latin music. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons (except Wednesday nights), followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:00, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Theatre on the Lake: A Long Way From Chicago

Theatre on the Lake, the city's summer series of revivals of plays you should have seen from the past season, presents Lifeline Theatre's A Long Way From Chicago. 7:30pm June 29-July 2 and 6:30 July 3. $17.50. Fullerton and Lake Shore. Call 312-742-7994 for tickets.

GB Get-Together

The monthly GB Get-Together is switching to Tuesdays for the summer, and tonight it's at Green Eye Lounge, right below the Western Blue Line stop at 2403 W. Homer. We'll be getting started at 7pm and quitting around 11pm, so come on by for a drink with members of the Gapers Block staff.

Peel Me a Grape

Part of Stirring Things Up in Chicago, the Chicago Office of Tourism offers the Peel Me a Grape series, celebrating songs about food in a series of dinners and music performed by premier cabaret singers. Tonight's performance is at Thyme Restaurant, 464 N. Halsted, 7pm. Admission is $60. Call 312-226-4300 for reservations and more information.

The Transformation of Sugar and Water

Ever see those Food TV shows about cake decorating and wonder how, exactly, can you built a seven-foot-tall willow sapling out of sugar, complete with nesting doves? Find out how! Well, maybe not the doves. But join pastry master Mark Seaman spin and swirl sugar into gravity defying creations, decorations, and colors. The event will be held at the Adler Planetarium on June 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is free with museum admission.

Opening: Dollhouse, Goodman Theatre

Goodman's "it" playwright, Rebecca Gilman, adapts Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House in a contemporary Lincoln Park setting in this world premiere directed by Robert Falls. Opens tonight and runs through July 24. See here for full schedule and ticket information.

Paschen Reads @ TallGrass Writers Guild Series

Tonight, at 7:30pm, the TallGrass Writers Guild Authors Series + Open Mic spotlights Chicagoland poet Elise Paschen, Executive Director of the Poetry Society of America from 1988 to 2001, and cofounder of “Poetry in Motion,” a nationwide program that places poetry posters in subways and buses, reaching more than 10 million people a day with poetry. Paschen is coeditor of Poetry in Motion from Coast to Coast: 120 Poems from the Subways and Buses and Poetry Speaks. A former Frances Allen Fellow of the Newberry Library, Dr. Paschen will be available for book signing, which immediately precedes the TallGrass Open Mic. Cover charge for this Authors Series Appearance, which includes the lecture/discussion, Q&A, all handouts, and the Open Mic, is $7 reduced to $6 for students with ID. The evening's event is upstairs at The Red Lion, 2446 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773-348-2695). For more details, call 708-672-6630 or email tallgrasswriters{at}aol.com.

Carillonathon!

The University of Chicago's Rockefeller Chapel is home to a giant musical instrument known as a carillon. Every Sunday this summer the chapel is hosting a series of free recitals featuring University Carillonneur Wylie Crawford along with guest artists from across the United States and Europe. The concerts start at 6 pm, but come at 5:30 pm to climb the stairs of the bell tower and get a look at the giant bells of the carillon-- not to mention a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline.

The Secret Lives of Librarians

Tonight, at 7pm, join this group of zine-making librarians as they break away from the American Library Association Annual Conference to read from their zines to reveal the "inner lives of librarians that give lie to the stereotype of the repressed bun-wearing, Dewey Decimal obsessed shusher." From Quimby's: "Jenna Freedman, editor of the zine "Lower East Side Librarian Winter Solstice Shout-Out", is the Coordinator of Reference Services at Barnard College Library in NYC. She is a member of the library worker activist group Radical Reference that supports activists and independent journalists. Travis Fristoe devotes himself to libraries, amateur protest music and salvaging discarded bikes. Jenn Phillips-Bacher and Sara Pete published "Riot Librarrrian". A librarian-in-training, Keith Helt publishes "Flotation Device" and is in the band the Rories. Celia Perez publishes "I Dreamed I Was Assertive" and "Skate Tough You Little Girls," a zine about women in skateboarding and is a reference and instruction librarian at Harold Washington College where she spends much of her time asking them to turn off their cell phones." Learn all about the secret lives of librarians at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 West North Avenue, Chicago, or call 773/342-0910 for more info.

David Sedaris @ Borders

Author David Sedaris appears this afternoon at 12:30 at the Borders bookstore at 150 N. State to read from his most recent book, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim. There may also be some amusing anecdotes about his family. More information: (312) 606-0750.

Cereality opens

Cereality, the restaurant that specializes in hot and cold cereals, officially opens in Chicago this morning at 6:00 AM. The Chicago store is just the third location for the chain (the other two are in Philadelphia and Arizona State University in Tempe). Cereality is located at 100 S. Wacker at Monroe.

Derailroaded: "Wild Man" Fischer doc @ Film Center

Derailroaded is a 2005 documentary that introduces the viewer to Larry "Wild Man" Fischer, a street musician from LA who got committed to mental institutions twice, yet ended up having a fairly productive career: Frank Zappa recorded him on his Bizarre label, Rhino Records put out a 45 of Fischer back when it was still just a record store, and he cut a duet with Rosemary Clooney (no, really). Derailroaded screens tonight at 5:00 at the Siskel Film Center, and also on Thursday, June 30. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Bob & Penny Urbon and the Bill Porter Orchestra, teaching foxtrot and ballroom dancing. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 4:00 to 7:00, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Die Kase Hause Closing Reception

From 1-5 PM today, Foundation Gallery will be holding a closing reception for its current exhibition, Die Kase Hause. Die Kase Hause is an artist collective comrpised of Jeremiah Ketner, David Phillips, Gregory Shirilla, Jeffrey Williams and Aaron Zimmerman. According to a recent release, "It is not philosophy or style that unites [them], but rather a true compulsion to make art. What was once a group of students working closely together in Columbus, Ohio now has become a loose collection of members dispersed nationwide." You can see their work on the gallery's website if you like, but the reception is open to all. Foundation Gallery is located in the River West district at 700 North Carpenter Street, one block southeast from the Chicago/Milwaukee/Ogden intersection. Call 312.860.0740 for more information.

36th Annual Pride Parade

The 36th annual Pride Parade kicks off today at noon, at the corner of Halsted & Belmont. Lots and lots of queer boys and girls. You know you want to go! Full info at ChicagoPrideCalendar.org, or call (773) 348-8243 for details.

Fractal Edge Press book release @ Corosh

Corosh Restaurant (1072 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago) and Fractal Edge Press will host a book release and signing for the launch of Beatriz Badikian Gartler’s first novel, "Old Gloves: A 20th Century Saga," today from 3:30pm – 6:30pm. Badikian Gartler is one of the most prominent Latina writers and lecturers in Chicago and has earned a national reputation with her book of poems, Mapmaker Revisited, an excerpt of which was part of the “Poetry in Motion” project that brought poetry to mass transit in several major US cities, including Chicago. She and several other friends will be reading excerpts from the novel, the story of an educated Armenian family forced out of Turkey and trying to assimilate into a succession of new nations and cultures on three continents over six decades.

The reading will also be broadcast on the Internet as live, streaming audio by Ink & Ashes.

WiReD NextFest @ Navy Pier

Zap ka-pow! The future shows up this weekend, as WiReD magazine's two-day technology conference NextFest concludes its run at Navy Pier. Come and see all the technology you were promised in the 21st century: robots, flying cars, invisibility coats, unmanned transport, and so much more. There will be pavilions demonstrating all this boss future tech, and there will also be a series of discussions and demonstrations by some special guests to the show. The show is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. See the NextFest site for full details and to purchase tickets. Time is running out on the future; don't miss it!

Mo Willems @ AIC

Mo Willems, author and illustrator of Caldecott Award winners Knuffle Bunny and Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, stops at the Art Institute to partake in their Meet the Artist Series. The event will take place in the museum's Price Auditorium, located on the lower level near the exhibition Fantasy, Facts, and Furry Friends, of which Willems is a featured artist. Willems can be seen at 11am. The Art Institute is located at 111 S. Michigan Ave.; call 312-857-7161 for more information. This event is free with museum admission.

30 Queer Plays in 60 Straight Minutes @ Neo-Futurarium

Chicago's Neo-Futurist theater company present a Pride 2005 version of their show "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind". In the queer version of TML, the Neo-Futurists will present 30 totally gay plays for your amusement. All proceeds and donations will go to Lambda Legal. This special Pride version happens tonight only at 8:00 PM; see the Neo-Futurists' Website for reservation information. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Chicago Rebels and Carl Wooley & the Groove Masters, playing west coast swing and classic jazz. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Dill Pickle Dance

The still-nascent West Side Food Co-op is having their first fundraiser event, the Dill Pickle Dance, in honor of having chosen a name: The Dill Pickle Food Co-op. From 4pm to 6pm at the Spare Room, there will be good food, music, dancing, and a logo designing contest. For more information, check out the mailing list. 2416 W. North Ave. Suggested donation: $5 adults, $10 per family.

Back Lot Bash

After today's Dyke March (or maybe just after your work-out), pop behind Cheetah Gym Andersonville (5238 N. Clark) for the Back Lot Bash. The event promises food, beer and rock 'n' roll by acts including Three Dollar Bill, The Locals and TK04. You'll need your ID, 'cause the party is 21+; it runs from 3 to 10pm, and cover is $10.

Too Much Light Kids!

The Neo-Futurists present the final performance of "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM this afternoon at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.

Chicago Dyke March

Tomorrow's the annual Pride Parade, but did you know there's another march today? It's the Chicago Dyke March, and it started a few years ago in response to the Pride Parade becoming too huge and too female-unfriendly in some people's eyes. The Dyke March starts off at the corner of Ashland & Foster at 2:00 PM, the march step-off is at 3:00, and you'll march over to the lake for a rally at 4:00. More information may or may not be available at the march's Website. Just show up and have fun, why don't you.

Summer Sizzles Wine Tasting

Who wants free wine? Head to the Randolph Wine Cellars on June 25 from noon to 6 p.m. to taste sizzling summer whites, lovely rose wines, and bold reds. Learn what vino will bring your grilling to live. Free! For more info, call (312) 942-1212.

Pickup on South Street @ LaSalle Bank Cinema

Pickup on South Street, directed by Sam Fuller, stars Richard Widmark as a pickpocket who gets embroiled in international intrigue when he steals a purse containing top-secret microfilm. Also on the
bill is Enjoy Yourself - It's Later Than You Think, a 1974 documentary by local filmmaker Tom Palazzolo. At the LaSalle Bank Cinema, 4901 W. Irving Park, at 8pm. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and children. Call 312/904-9442 for more information.

Erik Larson @ MSI

Erik Larson, author of the wildly popular The Devil in the White City, makes at stop at the Museum of Science and Industry (scroll down to date) to discuss the World's Fair as it appears in his book. A book signing will follow the 1pm talk. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call 773-753-6230 to get them. The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr.

WiReD NextFest @ Navy Pier

Put on your jet pack, Futureman, because this weekend brings WiReD magazine's two-day technology conference NextFest to Navy Pier. Come and see all the technology you were promised in the 21st century: robots, flying cars, invisibility coats, unmanned transport, and so much more. There will be pavilions demonstrating all this boss future tech, and there will also be a series of discussions and demonstrations by some special guests to the show. The show is open today and tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. See the NextFest site for full details and to purchase tickets. Next stop: the future!

In Fine Spirits Wine Tasting

In case you need another reason to drink some nice wine this afternoon, Andersonville wine shop In Fine Spirits will be hosting a free wine tasting with the owners of Washington state's Maryhill Winery from 2pm-5pm today. Wines will include: 2003 Sauvignon Blanc, 2004 Viognier, 2003 Cabernet Franc Rose, 2002 Sangiovese, Fort Rock Red Blend and the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon "Proprietor's Reserve". The tastings are conducted in an open-house fashion so feel free to attend anytime.In Fine Spirits is located at 5418 N. Clark Street, Chicago. Call (773) 506-9463 for more information.

Trashy Art

When you think of classic art, you possibly think about the female nude. Whitney Lee has taken that expectation and twisted it a bit. With a latch hook. She's taken the cheesy latch hook kits and combined this with cheesy soft porn imagery to create tasteful wallhangings. Brings a whole new meaning to the idea of having a job as a "fluffer". You can see her one-woman show "Trashy" tonight at the opening at Woman Made Gallery from 6pm to 9pm. But if you can't make it tonight, you can see her art through July 21. And you definitely want to see it. Not only is this one of my favorites that she's done, it's one of the best pictures of a piece of art ever.

Dolorous Canter Listening Party at Rotofugi

Chicago band Dolorous Canter hosts a listening party for their new EP, For What You Thought Was Once Dead. They'll be playing the artists and influences that have shaped the band's sound as well as two listening sessions of their new EP. Free copies of the new EP will be given to the first 15 people and beverages will be provided.

Local designer toy store Rotofugi is graciously providing the space.

From 8pm - 10:30pm. Free and open to all.

Make Magazine Issue Release Party

Make: A Chicago Literary Magazine celebrates the release of their new issue at the California Clipper, 1002 N. California. The 10pm event is free and open to ages 21+ and features readings by contributors Aaron Michael Morales and Christine Hoffmann. Music will also include Low Skies' Chris Salveter and song and poetry from Group Sex. Call 773-384-2547 for more information.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Miguel Mendez and Blue Són y Clave Negra, teaching salsa and mambo. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Adult Pinewood Derby

The first annual Adult Pinewood Derby runs today from 6:30pm to 11:30pm at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood (just south of Montrose). Sixty cars designed by local and national artists -- including Jeff Tweedy, Mark Mothersbaugh and Tony Millionaire -- ralley against each other to the sounds of the world's only true girl group, The Grounded, concept glam rockers Chariot and DJ Helen Wheels. A $20 open bar benefits the P.L.A.Y. program at Causes Child Abuse Treatment Center.

The Second City's Romeo and Juliet Musical

...or, The People v. Friar Laurence, the Man Who Killed Romeo and Juliet. This remount of last year's hit collaboration between Second City and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre opens tonight and continues through August 14. Tickets start at $25; call 312-595-5600 for reservations.

Taste of Chicago 2005

The much-beloved and much-maligned Taste of Chicago kicks off today at Grant Park, featuring tasts of food from restaurants around Chicago, and a number of music and performance stages around the park. The city's official Website is a bit slow, so for the basic details you might want to check out the Sun-Times site. Taste of Chicago runs from today through July 4, and hours will be from 11:00 to 9:00 every day. Food tickets can be purchased at local Dominick's stores, or online.

Edited to add: Lauryn Hill LL Cool J will perform tonight, at 5:30, as part of the Taste's opening. The concert is free and will be in Grant Park.

Agate Authors @ Barbara's

Tonight at Barbara's Bookstore UIC, 1218 S. Halsted St., come celebrate Agate Publishing by listening to readings and music and enjoying some good snacks. Scheduled readings include Andrew Winston, Cheryl McKissack and Kathleen Ameche, with music by Starcandy. In addition to this night, Barbara's is offering month-long discounts on the books from this local press. The celebration starts at 7:30pm. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

Nancy Pearl @ Women and Children First

Nancy Pearl, author of Book Lust and model of the Librarian Action Figure, stops by Women and Children First to promote her new book, More Book Lust, and offer 1,000 more "reading recommendations for every mood, moment, and reason." Because a bibliophile's work is never done. The event starts at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Make-Believers' Ball 2005: Double Dog Dare

The Dog & Pony Theatre Company is getting ready for their Make-Believers' Ball 2005: Double Dog Dare. From 6:30-10pm, join the theater company as they announce their 2005-2006 season, enjoy live music by Dylan Rice and DJ Warp, and fill your stomach with appetizers and cocktails from Wishbone and Smokin Woody's. You'll also get to preview excerpts from those upcoming shows. The benefit will be held at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave. Tickets are $35; call 773-871-1195 to get them.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: René Cardoza and Los Carácuaros, teaching Pasodobles dance. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

The Celluloid Closet: LGBT in Film

The Chicago Historical Society's "Out at CHS: Exploring the LGBT Past" series presents a discussion on the role of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender in film, on both sides of the camera. Kimberly Peirce, writer-director of Boys Don't Cry, and Ronald Gregg, of the Committee on Cinema and Media Studies at the U of C, participate. Cocktail reception 5:30-6:30pm at Second City (1616 N. Wells); discussion 6:30-8:00pm at Loews Piper's Alley theater (1608 N. Wells). $10 for general public, $5 for students and CHS members.

Drawn Out @ Gallery 400

Our friend Terence Hannum informs us of an interesting art showing entitled Drawn Out at Gallery 400. The opening reception is today from 5-8pm. It sounds tasty: "Drawn Out explores expanded practices of drawing (for example, drawing as sculpture or drawing as video) with works that are both literally sculptural or time-based and works that remain two dimensional but are no less influenced by the new scope of possibilities in drawing."

A City Lit Casserole

City Lit Theatre performs staged readings of stories from three women celebrating food's role in our culture. On June 23, join the group at Whole Foods in Lincoln Park for readings from NY Times' food critic Ruth Reichl, Janet S. Wong, and Louisa May Alcott. The reading begins at 7 p.m. and is located at 1000 W. North Avenue. Free of charge.

Proud to Laugh

Tonight at Joe's On Weed St. (number 940 W Weed, to be exact), see queer comedy for cause. "Proud to Laugh" features Chicago comedians Jessica Halem and Sapna Kumar, along with "special guest" Bill Cruz, and the event will benefit Gay Games VII. The doors are 7pm, show starts at 8, and tickets are available at several locations: the Gay Games office, 4753 N. Broadway Ste. 602; Women & Children First Books, 5233 N. Clark; Ticketmaster; or on the door. You can also call 773/907-2006 for reservations or more information.

Next Music

As part of this weekend's Nextfest exhibition, WiReD magazine presents Next Music, a showcase of music curated by Wilco's Jeff Tweedy. Featured in tonight's concert at the Vic will be Drag City recording artist Joanna Newsom and the Handsome Family. Tickets are $15, and are on sale through Ticketmaster or the Vic Box Office. Showtime is at 7:00 PM.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: DJs Jeff Mills and Mike Dearborn, playing house & techno music. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons (except Wednesday nights), followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:00, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Theatre on the Lake: Solo Latinas

Theatre on the Lake, the city's summer series of revivals of plays you should have seen from the past season, presents Teatro Luna's Solo Latinas. 7:30pm June 22-25 and 6:30 June 26. $17.50. Fullerton and Lake Shore. Call 312-742-7994 for tickets.

Mandala creation @ Cultural Center

Starting today, a group of Tibetan Buddhist monks will begin constructing a sand mandala in the Chicago Cultural Center. Construction will apparently continue through Monday, June 27th, and the mandala will be dismantled and swept up Monday evening. Throughout the days, the public will be invited to watch the monks working on the mandala. See the Cultural Center site for a full schedule of the events surrounding the mandala construction. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. (312) 744-6630.

More Michael Blum

Back by popular demand, Michael Blum will show 2 videos at Mess Hall tonight at 8pm. First off will be "My Sneakers" (37:30 minutes) Blum says, "In August 1999, I purchased a pair of Nike sneakers in Paris. Two years later, I would travel back to where they came from - Indonesia, according to the label - and try to learn more about them...." Additionally, following "My Sneakers," there will be a world premiere presentation. Michael is going to share a brand new work that was made right here in Chicago, featuring a local cult performer (who will also attend the screening). Michael Blum will be around to answer questions and discuss his work after the screening. Free popcorn and air conditioning will be served. Mess Hall is at 6932 North Glenwood Avenue in Rogers Park. It’s right by the Morse stop on the Red Line. Phone: (773) 465-4033, BYOB, and always free admission.

Italian Cooking @ Kitchen Chicago

Danny and Marie Lena of Papa Lena's Sweet Red Pepper Chips and Bodacious Beet Chips will be hosting an Italian cooking class at Kitchen Chicago tonight from 6:30-9:30pm. The class costs $50 per person / $85 per couple. Enjoy an evening with this dynamic duo and enjoy the results at the end of the night. More information can be found on the Papa Lena website. Space is limited, so please be sure to RSVP with the Lenas at (800) 877-7252. Or, if you can't make this class, check out the Kitchen Chicago calendar to make plans for a future date.

The Headhunters @ Schubas

Tonight is the second of two performances at Schubas Tavern, by legendary jazz musicians The Headhunters: Mike Clark, Paul Jackson & Bill Summers, featuring Robert Walter with Skerik, starting at 9pm. Tickets are $26 in advance ($28 at the door). Schubas says: "From the instant funk classic "Chameleon" to the rare-groove sound of "God Make Me Funky," the Headhunters have redefined modern funk, world music, and jazz as one of the most innovative groups in history. The band toured and recorded for several years with legendary pianist Herbie Hancock, releasing the masterpieces Thrust (1974), Flood (1975), and Manchild (1975). In 1976 the Headhunters ventured out on their own recording the classic Survival Of The Fittest (1976), followed by Straight to the Gate (1978), and Return of the Headhunters (1998). In 2003, the Headhunters maintain the same vitality and creativity on their newest release “Evolution Revolution”. The album showcases the incredible musical synergy which brought them world fame in the 70s."

Rush Hour Concerts @ St. James Cathedral

Enjoy free world-class music at the St. James Cathedral. On June 21 and June 28, the Chicago Chamber Musicians will present a program of British music. The show is from 5:15 p.m., and the Cathedral is located at 65 E. Huron. Free, and includes British sweets and savories.

The Headhunters @ Schubas

Tonight (and tomorrow, the 22nd) at Schubas Tavern, legendary jazz musicians The Headhunters: Mike Clark, Paul Jackson & Bill Summers, featuring Robert Walter with Skerik perform, starting at 9pm. Tickets are $26 in advance ($28 at the door). Schubas says: "From the instant funk classic "Chameleon" to the rare-groove sound of "God Make Me Funky," the Headhunters have redefined modern funk, world music, and jazz as one of the most innovative groups in history. The band toured and recorded for several years with legendary pianist Herbie Hancock, releasing the masterpieces Thrust (1974), Flood (1975), and Manchild (1975). In 1976 the Headhunters ventured out on their own recording the classic Survival Of The Fittest (1976), followed by Straight to the Gate (1978), and Return of the Headhunters (1998). In 2003, the Headhunters maintain the same vitality and creativity on their newest release “Evolution Revolution”. The album showcases the incredible musical synergy which brought them world fame in the 70s."

Halsted Tastes Better

The fifth annual food festival featuring Halsted Street restaurants happens this evening from 6:00 to 9:00. Among the restaurants providing food: Ann Sather; Cornelia's; Chicago Diner; Yoshi's; Firefly; X/O; HB; Kit Kat Lounge; and many more. All you can eat! Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. The festival takes place at the corner of Halsted & Aldine. You can purchase tickets at participating restaurants, or call (773) 353-5939.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Manny Lopez-Marquez and Franz Benteler's Royal Strings Orchestra, teaching American tango and ballroom dancing. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 4:00 to 7:00, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Red Rover Series -- Experiment #2

Red Rover Series, readings that play with reading, is holding their second installment this month with Experiment #2, "A Prayer," featuring local writers Beth Snyder and Marvin Tate. Starting at 7pm, at SpareRoom, 2416 W. North Ave., listeners will be treated to some interesting readings presented in inventive ways. A donation of $3 is suggested at the door. Email spareroominfo[at]yahoo[dot]com for more information.

Cheech Marin @ Barbara's

Cheech Marin -- yes, that one -- stops at Barbara's Bookstore UIC to discuss Chicano Visions: American Painters on the Verge. The book accompanies the current show at the Mexican Fine Arts Center which is comprised of art primarily from Marin's private collection. Apparently, when it comes to Chicano art, he's got one of the largest private collections in the world. Who knew? The discussion begins at 7:30pm, 1218 S. Halsted St. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Lisa "La Boriqua" and the Old School Big Salsa Band, teaching Salsa, Bachata and Cumbia. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Too Much Light Kids!

The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.

Celebrate the Mix Tape @ Quimby's

Tonight at 8pm "We Will Rock You" at Quimby's Bookstore's Mix Tape Event. This is Chicago's first ever celebration of the mixtape! Audience members are expected to bring a mix CD or tape to swap with someone at the reading. Featuring readings and music by: Joe Meno (Punk Planet contributing editor and author of "Hairstyles of the Damned" which you might remember from our book club discussion), Sean Carswell (Razorcake editor and author of "Barney's Crew"), Mickey Hess (THE2NDHAND contributor and author of "Big Wheel at the Cracker Factory"), Anne Elizabeth Moore (Punk Planet associate editor and author of "Hey Kidz Buy This Book"), Liz Mason (editor of Caboose zine who will present material from The Bad Lyrics Project), plus music from PAL! Don't forget to bring your mix tape or CD to trade! Quimby's is located at 1854 West North Avenue, Chicago. 773/342-0910

Streets & San Man's Pub Grub Crawl

Dennis Foley, author of The Streets and San Man's Guide to Chicago Eats, is leading a tour of yummy eats. Find out where the best workingman's lunch is, plus Chicago-related facts and fables -- straight from the San Man's mouth. Cost is $65, and includes food, beverage and transportation costs. The tour is from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and departs from the Cultural Center. For more information, contact (312) 744-9350.

Fiestas Puertorriquenas

From Tuesday, June 14 through Sunday, June 19, enjoy some Puerto Rican culture at the 23rd Annual Puerto Rican Festival. Head to California and Division in Humbolt Park for food, arts, dance and music. Free of charge.

Parade of Pet Homes

This summer's Parade of Pet Homes is Saturday, June 18th, in River North. Nineteen area designers took pre-fab dog houses and gave them a makeover, which can be viewed on a walking tour from 10am to 6pm. Afterwards, the dog houses are auctioned off, with proceeds going to the Anti-Cruelty Society.

Night Opening

Damen Studio, 4528 1/2 N. Damen, is holding an opening reception for Night, a photography exhibition featuring the work of sixteen photographers. The displayed work includes Sarah Hadley, Teresa Bertocci and T. Griff. From 6-9pm you can view the premiere night of this night-themed exhibition. On display through July 10. Email info[at]damenstudio[dot]com for more information.

Intimate on 18th

Tonight Cafe Jumping Bean is holding an opening reception for Rebecca Villarreal's photography exhibition, "Intimate on 18th/Intimo en la 18." A member of the Pilsen community, Villarreal uses her work to document the "initmate details and hidden treasures" along 18th St. The reception will last from 6-9pm and 20% of all sale proceeds will go to help the Pilson Environmental Rights and Reform Organization. The exhibition will be on display through July 21. Cafe Jumping Bean is located at 1439 W. 18th St.; call 312-455-0019 for more information.

Sketchbook 5 Fifth Anniversary Benefit

Sketchbook 5, with 1st Ward Alderman Manuel Flores and Collaboraction, are holding a special benefit performance celebrating Sketchbook's fifth anniversary. From 6pm-12am, at Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, you can enjoy the best of Sketchbook 2005 with hors d'oeuvres, drinks, dinner, desert, dancing, and auctions both silent and live. Tickets are $75 per person and can be bought here.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Margot McGraw-Toppen & Riley Wimes Jr.; and The Houtcast Jazz Band, playing east coast and big band swing. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Opening: Tribulation and the Demolition Squad

The Storefront Theater, with Gallery 37 Center for the Arts at 66 E. Randolph St., presents Chicago Dance Crash in "Tribulation and the Demolition Squad." From the press release: "Dance, stage combat, acrobatics and martial arts drvie this intense full-length contemporary ballet about the best and worst intentions of God and mankind. The story unfolds behind the narrator's hard-fought journey to discover himself and the terrible destiny that awaits him." Tickets are $15 per person, $10 for groups of 25 or more. Call 312-742-8497 to purchase, or get your tickets online. The performance runs through June 26.

Dive Bar Reading @ Quimby's

Tonight at 7pm at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 West North Avenue, Chicago). "Dive" into some good books all about dive bars with Jonathan Stockton and Kirby Gann. Stockton will read from his seminal study of Chicago's seedy underworld, "Chicago's Best Dive Bars: Drinking and Diving in the Windy City" and Kirby Gann reads from his newly released novel, "Our Napoleon in Rags," most of which is set in a dive bar. Call 773/342-0910 for more info.

Meet Body Worlds' Gunther von Hagens

Gunther von Hagens, world-renowned anatomist and creator of the Body Worlds exhibit, leads a special discussion at the Museum of Science and Industry (scroll down to date). Sponsored by Wired magazine, the evening will begin at 5:30pm with a private exhibition viewing, followed by Dr. von Hagens's lecture at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Call 773-753-6230 to reserve your spot. The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr.

David Roediger @ 57th St. Books

David Roediger, author of Working Toward Whiteness, reads tonight at 57th St. Books. Roediger examines "how American ethnic groups that are considered white today, such as Jewish-, Italian-, and Polish-Americans, once occupied a confused racial status in their new country." He also discuss how those groups weren't considered white until immigration laws became more restrictive. The free reading begins at 7pm, 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

Wendy McClure @ Barbara's Bookstore

Chicago author and blogger Wendy McClure appears tonight at the Barbara's Bookstore in Oak Park to promote her brand-new book I'm Not The New Me. Come by and see if she's got that book-signing robot yet. The event starts at 7:30, and is free and open to the public. Barbara's Bookstore: 1100 Lake Street, Oak Park. (708) 848-9140.

Guy Maddin, The Lonesome Organist @ Music Box Theatre

The Movieside Film Festival celebrates its 4th anniversary with two programs of short films tonight. The first program, at 7:00 PM, will consist of local and international short films, and will feature music by The Lonesome Organist. Tickets for this first program are $5. The second program starts at 8:15 PM, and features an appearance by Canadian director Guy Maddin, who will be discussing his career and showing a selection of his short films (including his recent film The Heart of the World, which received a lot of attention, and the intriguingly-named Sissy Boy Slap Party). Tickets for this second program are $9.25. See the Movieside site for further details. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.

Chicago SummerDance

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing continues tonight in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: Tito Rodriguez and Truco y Zaperoko, playing Plena, Cuban Songo and Guaguancó. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons, followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:30, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Powell's North Reading Series

New reading series, Powell's North, will continue tonight at 7pm at Powell's Bookstore at 2850 N. Lincoln. Each reading pairs an established poet, fiction, or non-fiction writer from around the nation with one or two emerging writers in an event that exposes the community to a dynamic variety of work from writers at different stages in their career.

Tonight's reading includes poetry from Carina Farrero and Chris Bower, and features poet Suzanne Buffam. Buffam's poetry has appeared in various journals in the United States and Canada (including Saturday Night, Books in Canada, Poetry, The Denver Quarterly, Prairie Schooner and The Colorado Review) and in numerous anthologies. Her first book, "Past Imperfect" (House of Anansi Press) was published this spring. She is currently Visiting Poet at Columbia College. Powell's North is sponsored by the Writing Program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Powell's Bookstore. Call (773) 248-1444 for more information.

Finding Your Chicago Ancestors

Tonight at 6pm, Grace DuMelle, genealogy researcher and author of Finding Your Chicago Ancestors: A Beginner's Guide to Family History in the City and Cook County, will give a talk on using Chicago's and Cook County's historical records to track your ancestors. She will discuss basic and well as obscure genealogy sources and records. The talk is free and open to the public at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St. The book is available for purchase in the Newberry's A.C. McClurg Bookstore; call 312-255-3700 for more information.

GB staff member AM will be at this event.

Third Coast Festival Radio Potluck

The Third Coast International Audio Festival is gearing up to present a Radio Potluck at Steppenwolf's Garage Theatre. Come savor the meal of audio documentaries, consisting of appetizers (short artistic works), side dishes (distinctive medium-length features) and entrees (longer selections of different styles and flavors). Then cap it off with a real dessert. The show lasts from 7-9pm and costs $4-$6. Advance tickets are recommended; you can call 312-948-4682 or email info[at]thirdcoastfestival[dot]org to get them. The Garage Theatre at Steppenwolf is located at 1650 N. Halsted Ave.

FOUND magazine video show @ Film Center

FOUND magazine, that amazing collection of found objects, presents a 90-minute program of found video footage. The show is titled "Crazy and Beautiful: A Show of Found Images", and it features home movies, instructional videos, footage from public access, and other footage found by its contributors. The show starts tonight at 8:15 at the Siskel Film Center. Tickets: $9, $7 for all students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago SummerDance 2005

The ninth annual Chicago SummerDance festival of public dancing kicks off this evening in the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan, between Harrison and Balbo). This evening's entertainment: DJ Paul Johnson and DJ Maurice Joshua, playing deep house and R&B house. SummerDance features one hour of dance lessons (except Wednesday nights), followed by two hours of live music and dancing. Tonight's show runs from 6:00 to 9:00, and SummerDance runs at the park Wednesday-Sunday nights (weather permitting) through August 28. See the SummerDance site for a complete schedule.

Theatre on the Lake: Curse of the Crying Heart

Theatre on the Lake, the city's summer series of revivals of plays you should have seen from the past season, presents the House Theatre of Chicago's Curse of the Crying Heart, part two of their Valentine Trilogy. 7:30pm June 15-18 and 6:30 June 19. $17.50. Fullerton and Lake Shore. Call 312-742-7994 for tickets.

Women's Theatre Alliance June Salon

The WTA's June Salon features a reading by Camenae Ensemble Theatre of Bilal Dardai's new dark comedy Vox Pandora, in which "Hope—the last remaining inhabitant of the mythical Pandora's Box—is convinced to leave her container and enter a collaborative relationship with an ambitious politician." 7:30pm at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. $5 suggested donation.

Steve Almond @ Barbara's

Steve Almond, author of the quite popular Candyfreak, stops at Barbara's Bookstore in Oak Park to read from his new short-story collection, The Evil B.B. Chow. Among the plots explored are those of "a young editor endur[ing] a bizarre blind date; a couple sure that they have been implanted by aliens; a boy, desperate to please his father through baseball, end[ing] up fatally wounding another boy during a game." The reading begins at 7:30pm; Barbara's Oak Park is located at 1100 Lake Street. Call 708-848-9140 for more information.

Clean Air Counts Happy Hour

Join your fellow bicycle commuters, from 5:30-8:30pm, for a happy hour of cold drinks and half priced appetizers at Goose Island Brew Pub. Clean Air Counts, Undo It, New American Dream and Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail will come together to offer raffle prizes and giveaways and promote the biking lifestyle as an effective solution to poor air quality. Hosted by the LEED Council Demonstration Corridor, the event is open to the public. Goose Island is located at 1800 N. Clybourn.

Gapers Block Book Club Meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. The meeting begins at 7:30pm. And, join the book club email list for updates and important alerts about future meetings.

Free Music @ Schubas

Want to hear some free tunes at a cozy music venue tonight? Come on down to Schubas Tavern for a free Evening with Sarah Blasko starting at 7pm. Schubas is located at 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont), Chicago. It's free free free!

M. F. K. Fisher: Poet of the Appetites

John Updike called M. F. K. Fisher "the poet of the appetites." Come find out why at Maxim's: The Nancy Goldberg Internation Center on June 22 at 6 p.m. Biographer Joan Reardon and host Rick Kogan in a delectable discussion of the poet's work, food and life. Cost is $20. For tickets, call (312) 742-1748.

Printers Row Book Fair

All hail the Printers Row Book Fair! Five blocks of booksellers, independent and, you know, Borders, selling their stuff amongst wonderful smells of cooking meats. It's a lovely summer outing. Loads of authors will be making appearances for readings and signings and such, so be sure to visit the site for a full listing of events. Everyone from Wendy McClure to Nick Hornby to Naomi Wolf will be there. You should be too. Free and open to the public, 10am-6pm.

GB staff member ASH will be working the Poetry Center of Chicago table from 10-2pm, come by and say Hi.

FOUND magazine video show @ Film Center

FOUND magazine, that amazing collection of found objects, presents a 90-minute program of found video footage. The show is titled "Crazy and Beautiful: A Show of Found Images", and it features home movies, instructional videos, footage from public access, and other footage found by its contributors. The show starts tonight at 5:00 at the Siskel Film Center, and FOUND magazine's co-founder, Jason Bitner, will be on hand for an audience discussion. If you can't make it tonight, "Crazy and Beautiful" screens again on Wednesday, June 15. Tickets: $9, $7 for all students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Other Book Festival

Need a break from a certain book festival? Another Chicago Magazine and New City host the Other Book Festival today at Hothouse, 31 E. Balbo, from 3pm to 6pm. The event will have booths for The Believer, Bridge Magazine, Chicago Comics, Columbia College Fiction Writing Department, Lumpen, Make: A Chicago Literary Magazine, Milkweed Editions, Myopic Books, Newcity, PISTIL Magazine, Poetry, Seminary Coop and Stop Smiling Magazine, and readings by Adrienne Miller and Paul Hornschemeier. It's free and open to all ages.

Windy City Roller Derby @ Congress Theatre

It's officially Sunday, Bloody Sunday when the Windy City Rollers go derby at the Congress Theatre (2135 N. Milwaukee Ave.). Tickets are just $15 for two bouts: Manic Attackers vs. Hell's Belles and Double Crossers vs. The Fury. Come out for the bloodsport, then head out for beers at the Liar's Club afterwards (1655 W. Fullerton). "There will be peace talks, pats of congrats and some good ‘ol fan appreciation!" Doors to the Congress open at 5:30pm, derby starts at 6pm, all ages welcome. Tickets are available online.

Northcenter Ribfest

The Northcenter Ribfest wraps up today, with lots of food and live music on Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park and Warner. Among the bands performing today: Underwater People; Sons of the Never Wrong; and Cathy Richardson. Ribfest happens from noon to 10:00; check the Website for more details.

Andersonville Midsommarfest

The 40th annual Midsommarfest, the Andersonville neighborhood's festival of music, food and the arts, finishes up today near the corner of Clark & Foster. There will be four separate music stages set up around the festival; check the Andersonville Website for a complete schedule of performers. The festival runs from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and admission is a $5 donation, which benefits the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce.

Michael Cunningham on the record

Join Victoria Lautman of 98.7 WFMT at the Lookingglass Theatre for the season's final installment of Writers on the Record. She'll be interviewing Michael Cunningham live on air; the public is invited to attend the taping for free from 11:45am to 1pm. Reservations can be made by calling 312/832-6788. Cunningham, the author of The Hours, is currently touring behind his latest novel, Specimen Days.

Drinking & Writing Festival

The Drinking & Writing Brewery is pleased to bring you its first annual Drinking & Writing Festival, a day of discussions, performances and beer dealing with the traditions of drinking and writing. There will be a book sale, panel discussions on famous drinkers and writers and on the history of beer, and a writing competition, among other festivities. If you've got a little Hemingway in you, head over to The Hopleaf at 5148 N. Clark St., from 2-7pm, to join in. Tickets are $20 and include beer samples. Call 773-793-9408 for more information.

Chasing Billy Caldwell

Free Walking, a "nomadic social experiment that seeks to explore Chicago on foot," will meet tonight at 5:30pm, at Peterson and Sauganash, to wander through the neighborhood named for early Chicago resident Billy Caldwell. Sarah Kanouse will lead tonight's walk. Contact Bonnie Fortune at lefortune[at]gmail[dot] for questions.

Printers Row Book Fair

All hail the Printers Row Book Fair! Five blocks of booksellers, independent and, you know, Borders, selling their stuff amongst wonderful smells of cooking meats. It's a lovely summer outing. Loads of authors will be making appearances for readings and signings and such, so be sure to visit the site for a full listing of events. Everyone from Wendy McClure to Nick Hornby to Naomi Wolf will be there. You should too. Free and open to the public, 10am-6pm.

Choice Rocks

The wonderful folks at Phyllis' Musical Inn (1800 Division St.) are helping Northwest Chicago Choice raise some much-needed cash for their endless pursuit in making reproductive health accessible to all (not to mention keeping keeping abortion legal), by letting them invite several wonderful bands to play tonight. Doors open at 8:30 and music starts at 9. A very affordable $5 cover gets you in to see the likes of: Traci Kunath, Ludus Love Style, Firelight Rising, Nyco, Castration DJ, Captain Krack, and other guests. Sounds like a rockin' good time, to me.

Too Much Light Kids!

The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.

Northcenter Ribfest

Do you like live music and ribs? Here's the event for you! The Northcenter Ribfest happens today and tomorrow on Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park and Warner. Expect plenty of food, most of it ribs (and if you're a chef, you might want to participate in the amateur cook-of tomorrow). Among the bands performing today: Dayna Malow; Devil in A Woodpile; Anne Harris; and Vanessa Davis. Ribfest happens from noon to 10:00 PM both days; check the Website for more details.

The Book Cellar One-Year Anniversary Party

The Book Cellar bookstore in Lincoln Square is celebrating its one-year anniversary today, and the store's owner is having a party to mark the occasion. From 7pm-10pm there will be wine, raffles, readings by Young Chicago Authors and more. The Book Cellar is located at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. in Chicago. Visit the website for more details. Congratulations!

Staff member AM will be at this event.

Andersonville Midsommarfest

The 40th annual Midsommarfest, the Andersonville neighborhood's festival of music, food and the arts, runs today and tomorrow near the corner of Clark & Foster. There will be four separate music stages set up around the festival; check the Andersonville Website for a complete schedule of performers. The festival runs from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM today and tomorrow, and admission is a $5 donation, which benefits the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce.

David Cross, Death From Above 1979 DJ sets @ Sonotheque

To benefit musician Dax Pierson, Sonotheque is hosting a DJ set tonight that should knock your socks on your ass: TV's Li'l Davy Cross, fresh from his double triumph of starring as the totally gay Dr. Tobias Funke on Fox's "Arrested Development", as well as writing an extremely funny piss-take of and for local music reviewers Pitchfork Media; and the two-man group Death From Above 1979. The show runs from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM, so bring your toothbrush. Tickets are $10. Arrive early, because there's going to be about 50 bazillion "Mr. Show" fans in line. Sonotheque: 1444 W. Chicago. (312) 226-7600.

4Art: Love and Beauty

Tonight, from 6-10pm, 4Art is holding an opening reception for their new exhibition: a collection of oil paintings by Chicago-based artist Robert W. Lee. Although Lee's history of showing is broad -- "from Greenwich Village, and The Cleveland Museum of Art, to international arenas in Yugoslavia, Austria, France and Italy," -- he has not shown his work in Chicago for over eighteen years, making this exhibition quite significant. The pieces will be on display through June 30. 4Art is located at 1932 S. Halsted, #100; call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Summer Love County Fair

Busy Beaver, maker of some fine buttons, is holding "so and so's button-o-matic series #6 summer 05 kick off" this weekend. Fifty cents buys you a button made by any one of a number of respectable artists. Featured button makers include Sayre Gomez, Maya Hayuk and Steve Harrington. There will also be popcorn, cotton candy, games and all sorts of fun summer things to accompany your buttons. Head down to 1741 N. Western Ave,

CTA Tattler birthday party @ Rock Bottom Brewery

The great CTA blog CTA Tattler celebrates its one-year anniversary tonight at Rock Bottom Brewery (1 W. Grand, close to the Grand & State Red Line stop). Celebration starts at 4:30 PM, and continues until "when we all decide it's time to ride the Red Line together." See the CTA Tattler Website for further info.

Nick Hornby @ Borders

Nick Hornby will be reading from and signing his new book, A Long Way Down, at 12:30pm at the State Street Borders, 150 N. State. Call 312/606-0750 for more info.

Aesthetic Eye Gallery Anniversary

Directors Elissa Ferguson and Alex Rodriguez announce the first anniversary of their gallery, Aesthetic Eye, and the opening of their new exhibition "Vim and Vinegar II." The exhibition is "a portrait of the Venn diagram -- a large-scale set of artworks highlighting opposing worlds while illuminating the over-lapping common ground that unifies these worlds." A $1 donation is requested at the door, with proceeds going to help the Tree House Animal Foundation. Aesthetic Eye is located at 1520 W. Chicago Ave. Call 312-243-1520 for more information.

Marci Hamilton @ Seminary Co-op

Marci Hamilton, author of God vs. the Gavel, reads tonight at the Seminary Co-op Bookstore. A law professor, Hamilton challenges the belief that all things done in the name of religion deserve protection under the constitution, arguing that "religious organizations and believers should be subject to the same laws governing everyone else." She shows that, surprisingly, this mode of thought is not necessarily the concensus. Tonight's reading begins at 7pm, 5757 S. University Ave. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

Kinzie Corridor Walk

Free Walking, a "nomadic social experiment that seeks to explore Chicago on foot," offers a walk through a part of the city's industrial history. Participants will meet at 1958 W. Walnut, at 7:30pm, for the 8pm walk through the Kinzie Industrial corridor. Melinda Fries will lead tonight's walk. Contact Bonnie Fortune, at lefortune[at]gmail[dot]com for questions.

Extreme Bibliography

Tonight at 6pm, John P. Chalmers will present a lecture at the Newberry Library on "Extreme Bibliography." Chalmers, who compiled a list of leaf books to accompany the Newberry's exhibit "Disbound and Dispersed: The Leaf Book Considered," will speak on the definitions of the leaf book, why the books are popular among book collectors, and how he created a system to catalog the books. This talk is free and open to the public. The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton. Call 312-255-3691 for more information.

Shynola video shorts @ Film Center

Shynola, the group of British directors and animators whose most recent work was for the much-anticipated film version of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, is featured in a 70-minute program of short films that runs tonight at the Siskel Film Center. The program screens tonight at 8:00. Tickets: $9, $7 for all students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago Blues Festival

The 22nd annual Chicago Blues Festival kicks off today in Grant Park (300 S. Columbus). Four days of R&B performers, including Koko Taylor, Buddy Guy, the Lucky Peterson Band, Mavis Staples and many more. See the Blues Festival for a full lineup for all days.

Opening: The Timbleberry Gallows

The GreyZelda Theatre Group is presenting their first original play, "The Thimbleberry Gallows" tonight at StageLeft Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. The play follows a girl whose visit to her sister at Fort Wilkins ends in her mysterious disappearance. In four sections, the play spectulates on what might have happened to her. Tickets are $10-$15; tonight's performance begins at 8pm. The show will run through July 3.

Diva Dating

Dykediva presents Diva Dating, a night of lesbian speed dating at T's Bar on Clark. The dating range is divided into two groups, with mid-thirties and up dating from 8-9pm and those in their twenties and early thirties dating from 9:30-10:30pm. (Ranges are approximations and participants should feel free to join whichever group in which they feel most comfortable.) Admission is $10 with $1 "courage shots." Singles are encouraged to join in the fun and couples are welcome to lend their support in the dating game. T's Bar is located at 5025 N. Clark St.

Why White Kids Love Hip Hop

Bakari Kitwana, author of The Hip Hop Generation and former Source editor, reads at 57th St. Books on the cultural impact of hip hop. In his new book, Why White Kids Love Hip Hop, Kitwana "argues that hip hop has broken down more racial barriers than any other social development of the past three decades," while examining the relationship between white youth and black popular culture. Tonight's free reading starts at 7pm, 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

Richard Franke @ Newberry Library

Richard Franke, author of Cut from Whole Cloth: An Immigrant Experience, will stop at the Newberry Library for a reading and discussion of his book. The book details Franke's efforts to learn more about his German grandparents and their immigration to America. Franke is also the founder of the Chicago Humanities Festival and will be signing his book after the talk. Free and open to the public, tonight's discussion begins at 6pm, 60 W. Walton St. The Cut from Whole Cloth will be available for purchase at the Newberry's A.C. McClurb Bookstore; call 312-255-3520 for more information.

Knitting with Fabric Class

Too hot to work with wool? Lincoln Park knitting store, The Knitting Workshop will once again host its Knitting With Fabric Class, on Wednesdays 7-9pm on June 8, 15, 22. From the workshop: "Our Knitting with Fabric class taught by Ryan Steinbach was such a hit, we've added another session. So if you missed it the first time- here's your chance to learn everything you need to know to knit a bag out of fabric. Ryan will teach you how to select the fabric, create 'yarn' out of it and knit a purse." The cost is $150 for the 3 classes. You supply the fabric (approx. 3 yards) and 10 1/2 needles, and everything else ("goody bag" and handouts) is included. Ryan will do all machine sewing for those without sewing machines. The Knitting Workshop is located at 2218 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. Call 773-929-5776 for more details.

Leon Despres @ I-House

Leon Despres will make a stop at the University of Chicago's International House, 1414 E.59th St., for a reading of his autobiography Challenging the Daley Machine: A Chicago Alderman's Memoir. The free book reading is hosted by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore and begins at 7pm. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.

Stories on Stage @ MCA

Chicago Public Radio's current season of Stories on Stage readings winds up tonight with one final performance at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Tonight's story theme is "Morning, Noon and Night", and features stories by Alice McDermott, Alice Elliott Dark and Thomas Meeham. The performance begins at 7:30 PM; see the Chicago Public Radio site for ticket information, or call (312) 397-4010. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago.

INFLUENCE. @ Sonotheque

A special edition of the monthly Influence night has been announced for Tuesday, June 7th. Presented by Interrupt Media and Subsystence, DJs on the night include Meta Records founder Oliver Ho (from London, UK), alongside local producers Kate Simko and William Selman. The event starts at 9 PM and takes place at Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago, near Ashland. There is a $5 cover, and you must be 21 to get in.

GB staff member KM will be in attendance.

The Oil Factor @ Facets

Facets Cinematheque presents a screening of the new documentary The Oil Factor: Behind the War on Terror, a look at the connections between the oil industry and US foreign policy. (Gee, you think there IS one?) The producers of the film will be present at tonight's screening for a Q&A session. The screening starts at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door, and can be purchased at the Facets site. The proceeds for tonight's screening are going to Peace Pledge Chicago. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-9075.

Opening: Symmetry @ Victory Gardens

Symmetry, an intriguing new play by David C. Field about string theory, big business, Eastern religion, and academic politics, opens tonight at Victory Gardens. After tonight's opening, performances are Tuesday through Sunday (beginning Wednesday June 8). Ticket prices are $33-40. See here for more info on performance times and purchasing tickets.

Varagona, Devotchka and Healthy White Baby @ Abbey Pub

Chicago (and Nashville) (and myself) love us some Deanna Varagona, and she's luckily going to play for us tonight at the Abbey Pub starting at 9pm (doors open at 8pm). Also for your listening pleasure are Devotchka and local favs Healthy White Baby. The Abbey Pub is located at 3420 W. Grace at Elston, Chicago, IL 60618 or call (773) 478-4408. Tickets $8.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door (21 and over). On-line ticketing is available at Ticket Web or call (866) 468-3401. Tickets also available through Abbey Box Office, seven days a week, 11am-2am.

57th St. Art Fair

Today, from 10am-5pm, the 58th annual 57th St. Art Fair will exhibit work from over 300 artists throughout the US and Canada. There will be everything painting to jewlery to photography and more. The two-day fair is free and open to the public. Read more about their history here or call 773-493-3247 for more information. The fair is held in Hyde Park, along 57th St., as is befitting to its name.

Shynola video shorts @ Film Center

Shynola, the group of British directors and animators whose most recent work was for the much-anticipated film version of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, is featured in a 70-minute program of short films that runs tonight at the Siskel Film Center. The program screens tonight at 5:00, and repeats on Thursday, June 9 at 8:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $7 for all students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Pullman Morris and Sword Team @ U of C

Man, what are those crazy U of C kids up to now? Morris dancing is a medieval English ritual dance that first appeared in Chicago in 1911. The dance is thought to be derived from pre-Christian rites passed down through generations of fathers and sons, celebrating the coming of spring. If this sounds like something you'd like to do, or if you'd like to watch a bunch of culturally obsequious college kids doing it, head over to the University of Chicago's Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, East Lawn, 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave. The dance begins at 12:45pm. Call 773-702-7059 for more information.

Jerry Pinkney @ AIC

Jerry Pinkney, author and illustrator of Caldecott Award winner Noah's Ark, stops at the Art Institute to partake in their Meet the Artist Series. The event will take place in the museum's Price Auditorium, located on the lower level near the exhibition Fantasy, Facts, and Furry Friends, of which Pinkney is a featured artist. Pinkney can be seen at both 11am and 2pm. The Art Institute is located at 111 S. Michigan Ave.; call 312-857-7161 for more information. This event is free with museum admission.

Empty Bowls

The Cuentos Foundation, an organization that "creates and facilitates cross-cultural interdisciplinary art programs," presents Empty Bowls, an afternoon of music, art and good conversation over a simple meal of soup and bread. There is a suggested donation of $9 or one or more non-perishable food items for the event, for which you will receive your soup and a handmade ceramic bowl to take home and the warm feeling you get knowing that your gifts will go toward helping the Local Soup Kitchen and the International Woman to Woman Foundation. The soup's on at 6321 N. Clark St., from 3-6pm. Call 773-761-4165 for more information.

57th St. Art Fair

Today, from 11am-6pm, the 58th annual 57th St. Art Fair will exhibit work from over 300 artists throughout the US and Canada. There will be everything painting to jewlery to photography and more. The two-day fair is free and open to the public. Read more about their history here or call 773-493-3247 for more information. The fair is held in Hyde Park, along 57th St., as is befitting to its name.

Too Much Light Kids!

The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.

Diatribe Zine Reading

Diatribe Media is holding their monthly zine reading; this month's theme is religion. Hosted by Kate Sandler of Brainiac, the free reading will feature pieces by Aaron Cynic, Katherine Hodges, Billy Roberts and Grant Schreiber. Come to Mojoe's Cafe Lounge, 2256 W. Roscoe, at 7:30pm to hear what transpires. Call 773-388-1236 for more information.

Ignite! 2005

Gen Art is hosting their second annual Ignite!, "a multi-media extravaganza featuring ground-breaking films, visual art and photography, fashion and live performances all in an evironment that celebrates Chicago's urban scene." From 8-9pm there is the VIP Pre-Reception and from 9pm-1am there is the main event at 800 W. Superior. Drinks will be complimentary. Visit the site for information on tickets, $15-$50, or call 312-229-1701 to purchase them by phone.

Bloomingdale Trail Spring Cleanup & Picnic

Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail and the City of Chicago Departments of Streets and Sanitation and Environment are organizing a Spring Cleanup & Picnic of the proposed Bloomingdale Trail. The cleanup will focus on the eastern section of the trail, lasting from 9am-12pm. Meet the crew, which will include the help of the City's Greencorps, at Leavitt and Milwaukee. The cleared ground will soon be transformed for use as a park and multi-use trail. For more information or to volunteer, call Ben at 773-677-7970 or send an email to info[at]bloomingdaletrail[dot]org.

Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

This year's Avon Walk for Breast Cancer starts today. So if you see several thousand people walking north along Lake Michigan, that's what's happening. See the Avon Walk site for more information.

Faces of Pilsen

Third Coast Press is holding an opening recepetion for Faces of Pilsen, a "collaborative photo exhibit celebrating the people and places of the Pilsen community." The opening will feature art, poetry, music and food, from 6-11pm at Casa de la Cultura "Mestizarte," 1440 W. 18th St. There is a recommended donation of $2.50 for the night. Call 773-525-6730 for more information.

.duck Opening

Big Picture Group announces their latest play, ".duck," at the Breadline Theatre, 1802 W. Berenice. The play, which is adapted from Henrik Ibsen's The Wild Duck, follows the struggles of a family living in post-modern America using video and digital technology to create the dramatic landscape. The show will run Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm, until June 26. Regular tickets are $12; $10 for students and actors with headshot and resume. Call 847-297-5282 for reservations.

Glorious Noise music showcase @ Bottom Lounge

Our close personal friends at Glorious Noise are teaming up with the Detroit music site Motor City Rocks to put on a showcase of Chicago & Detroit musical muscle, as it were. Representing Chicago: GloNo recording artists Quasar Wut-Wut. Representing Detroit: The Holy Fire. Also on the bill: The Sleepers from Chicago, and Murder Your Darlings from Ohio. The show's at the Bottom Lounge tonight at 8:00, and it's a 21+ show. Can you buy tickets online? Yes you can! $5 in advance, $7 at the door. Please rock responsibly. Bottom Lounge: 3206 N. Wilton (at Belmont). (773) 975-0505.

Fillet of Solo @ Live Bait

Live Bait Theater's 2005 season of solo performances, Fillet of Solo, starts today with "Blurred Vision" by Tekki Lomnicki. The autobiographical work premieres tonight and runs at the theater through June 26th. For more info, see the Live Bait site. Live Bait Theater: 3914 N. Clark. (773) 871-1212.

Auxiliary Board of LP Zoo 20th Annual Spring Benefit

Tonight is not only the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo's 20th Annual Spring Benefit, it's also part of the Board's effort to raise awareness for their $1 million pledge. The Benefit's theme is "Gorillas and Gatsby" and will feature music by the Gentlemen of Leisure, a live and silent auction, and a raffle. Dress for the 8pm-1am event is "creative black-tie," with tickets going for $110 per person or $900 for a group of ten. Visit the website for more information on raffle prizes, VIP tables and making reservations. The Benefit will be held on Zoo grounds, 2001 N. Clark St. Call 312-742-2163 for more information.

Dollar Store @ Hideout

Tonight at 7pm, be at the Hideout for this month's installment of The Dollar Store. From the store: "Short-Story Mastermind Elizabeth Crane (When the Messenger is Hot, All This Heavenly Glory) Canadian Theatrical Messiah (Your Secrets Sleep With Me, pppeeeaaaccceee) and Greek Comedic Accompanist Jeremy Sosenko (American Dream, Late Night Late Show) will join co-hosts Jonathan Messinger and stand-up behemoth Sean Gardner for some cheap, low-brow lit fun this Friday at the Hideout. This month, learn how to look fly with some hair regrowth treatment and a Northern Africa traveler's cap." $1 suggested donation.

Manifest 05 at Columbia

Who doesn't like free outdoor events? Today, Columbia Collge puts on their daylong 15 exhibition artwalk and sale called Manifest that celebrates grad students from all of their departments. Music is never afar and Grammy winners Ozomatli (they are good!), hip-hop stud Saul Williams and fronting the jazz beat, Steve Turre take to 3 stages. Starts at 11am and ends at 9:30pm and again admission is free. (Hat tip to Sarah who's got the inside scoop).

"First Ladies of Wrestling" @ Century

Did you watch GLOW in the '80s? Well, see where women's wrestling came from. Ruth Leitman's documentary "Lipstick & Dynamite, Piss & Vinegar: The First Ladies of Wrestling" premieres tonight at the Landmark Century. The movie interviews past wrestling stars, including Gladys "Killem" Gillem, the Fabulous Moolah, and Great Mae Young, and explores what drew them to the wrestling world -- as well as the heights and depths that awaited them there.

Fractal Edge Press Reading @ DvA Gallery

DvA Gallery, located at 2568 N. Lincoln, Chicago, will host a reading by 25+ Fractal Edge Press authors, tonight from 8-10pm. The dynamic performance is the first such gathering since the press began publishing Chicago writers in August, 2004. These writers excel on the stage and the page, and include Pulitzer Prize nominee, Maureen Tolman Flannery, David Hernandez, John Starrs, Larry O. Dean, Lina ramona Vitkauskas,Tyler "Beyond" Martin, Tom Roby, Billy Tuggle, eight members of the PolyRhythmic Collective, and Daniel Cleary. Sneak preview of five new publications will be read by Beatriz Badikian Gartler, Jim Coppoc, Joe Roarty, Michael Brownstein, and the First Friday Series host, Charlie Newman. C. J. Laity and Dave Gecic, partners of Fractal Edge Press, will also be reading, as will forthcoming authors, robertkarimi, Lauren Mathews, and Francesco Levato. The reading will also be broadcast on the Internet as live, streaming audio by Ink & Ashes. Copies of all Fractal Edge Press books will be available for sale, including advance copies of the new titles. For further information contact the DvA Gallery (773-871-4DVA, info{at}DvAGallery.com) or Wayne Allen Jones (773-793-4095, FEPedit{at}FractalEdgePress.com).

Nightclubbing: Greatest Hits @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Greatest Hits, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing the best footage from the "Nightclubbing" programs that have been shown all this past month. Expect to see Blondie, Talking Heads, the Dead Kennedys, DNA, Iggy Pop, The Cramps, Pylon, and many more. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 8:30 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

"Representing Invisible Labor"

This evening at the Washington Library's Pritzker Auditorium, The Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council and the Neighborhood Writing Alliance present "Representing Invisible Labor: How Art Speaks the Language of Labor." The multi-media event will look at ways that artists represent the sometimes unnoticed activity that goes on around us. Jon Langford of the Mekons will be among the guests, and the panel will be moderated by Emily Udell and Aaron Sarver, co-producers of the progressive radio program Fire on the Prairie. The event takes place from 6-8pm and is free and open to the public. Please call 312/422-5580 to make a reservation.

Sam Fuller's White Dog @ Block Museum of Art

Sam Fuller's 1982 film White Dog, a unique look at racism (the dog of the title has been trained to attack black people) that has hardly been seen in this country (except through less-than-official channels), screens tonight at Northwestern University's Block Museum of Art at 6:00 PM. Tickets are $6, or $4 for students; see the Museum's Website for details. Block Museum of Art: 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-4000.

Marilyn Monroe Birthday Bash

The Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club is throwing Marilyn Monroe a birthday celebration done right: with half-price martinis and Marilyn impersonators galore. Male and female, of course. From 5:30pm-2am, get a little taste of the glamor and watch prizes be handed to the most impressive M's. 3700 N. Halsted St. Call 773-525-1111 for more information.

Reconstruction Room @ Black Rock

Join local writers and performers for Wednesday's Reconstruction Room. The regular event promotes poetry and performance in the Chicago area. The Reconstruction Room meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the Black Rock Bar at Damen and Addison. Organizers Della Watson and Erin Teegarden have invited local writers Priscilla Wathington, Ellen Placey Wadey, and Kathy Regina to read from their works. 8pm, 21+.


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