Too many options to list here. Click Here for the full details on what's hot in Chicago for Thanksgiving week.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
DW's Loop: Thanksgiving Special
Too many options to list here. Click Here for the full details on what's hot in Chicago for Thanksgiving week.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
SPIRITUAL JOURNEY (THANKSGIVING)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
by Angela Skeete-Davis
Once again it is time for Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving … sharing a meal with people I love, some of whom I only get to see during the holidays. I also love cooking for thanksgiving and for the people I love; watching everyone enjoy the meal, and eating all the different foods at a thanksgiving feast ( some that I only eat during Thanksgiving). But most of all, I enjoy taking the time to go over the past year and say thanks for all the blessings of the year and then putting out there my wishes for the next twelve months …. Or so. So here a few of the things I am thankful for this year and a few of my wishes for the next twelve months or so.
I am thankful for my mother and daughter. I am thankful for my family, my extended family, my church family, my neighbors, my mentors, my coaches and my friends. I am thankful for the health of my mothers and daughter. I am thankful for the success of my sister and brother and I am thankful for my new nephew.
I am thankful for the young people and children in my life. I wish them lots of happiness and laughter. I am thankful for the older people in my life. I wish them peace of mind, very little pain and lots of love and support. I am thankful for the men in my life. I wish them the ability to conceive of the life they would love to live and the opportunity and ability to manifest that life. I am thankful for the women in my life. I wish them lots of love and happiness and the opportunity to live the life they dream of.
I am thankful for all the people who have come and gone in my life: my father, husband, sister, aunts, uncles, mentors, children and friends. I am thankful for the ability to see, hear, taste, touch, smell, think, run, jump, dance and sing. I am thankful for the ability to discern the good in my life and be appreciative of it. I am thankful for all of the blessings in my life and any future blessings. I am thankful that almost all of my needs and most of my wants are met and that my dreams are supported. I am thankful for my home, my animals and my car. I am thankful for a life filled with beauty, love, joy, happiness, moments of peace and laughter and I hope I make a difference in the life of others.
I am thankful to live where I live and in the era that I am living. I pray the people of the world have adequate food, drink, clothing, shelter, love, happiness and peace. I am thankful for an election that brought Obama to the White House and I wish him safety, lots of support and good health.
More than anything I am thankful to be alive and to be able to share my life with others and to give love to so many people. I am thankful to have happy, healthy, loving relationships in my life and I am thankful to all who read and support Neonu’s InSite. May you all have a very blessed and happy thanksgiving.
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
by Angela Skeete-Davis
Once again it is time for Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving … sharing a meal with people I love, some of whom I only get to see during the holidays. I also love cooking for thanksgiving and for the people I love; watching everyone enjoy the meal, and eating all the different foods at a thanksgiving feast ( some that I only eat during Thanksgiving). But most of all, I enjoy taking the time to go over the past year and say thanks for all the blessings of the year and then putting out there my wishes for the next twelve months …. Or so. So here a few of the things I am thankful for this year and a few of my wishes for the next twelve months or so.
I am thankful for my mother and daughter. I am thankful for my family, my extended family, my church family, my neighbors, my mentors, my coaches and my friends. I am thankful for the health of my mothers and daughter. I am thankful for the success of my sister and brother and I am thankful for my new nephew.
I am thankful for the young people and children in my life. I wish them lots of happiness and laughter. I am thankful for the older people in my life. I wish them peace of mind, very little pain and lots of love and support. I am thankful for the men in my life. I wish them the ability to conceive of the life they would love to live and the opportunity and ability to manifest that life. I am thankful for the women in my life. I wish them lots of love and happiness and the opportunity to live the life they dream of.
I am thankful for all the people who have come and gone in my life: my father, husband, sister, aunts, uncles, mentors, children and friends. I am thankful for the ability to see, hear, taste, touch, smell, think, run, jump, dance and sing. I am thankful for the ability to discern the good in my life and be appreciative of it. I am thankful for all of the blessings in my life and any future blessings. I am thankful that almost all of my needs and most of my wants are met and that my dreams are supported. I am thankful for my home, my animals and my car. I am thankful for a life filled with beauty, love, joy, happiness, moments of peace and laughter and I hope I make a difference in the life of others.
I am thankful to live where I live and in the era that I am living. I pray the people of the world have adequate food, drink, clothing, shelter, love, happiness and peace. I am thankful for an election that brought Obama to the White House and I wish him safety, lots of support and good health.
More than anything I am thankful to be alive and to be able to share my life with others and to give love to so many people. I am thankful to have happy, healthy, loving relationships in my life and I am thankful to all who read and support Neonu’s InSite. May you all have a very blessed and happy thanksgiving.
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
--Melody Beattie
Thursday, November 20, 2008
DW's Loop
“How can you stay in the Loop, if you aren’t in the Loop?”
November 21 - 23, 2008
Friday
Friday Night Fever @ The Joynt
650 N Dearborn$100 bottles of Three Olives Vodka & $150 bottles of Grey Goose before 11pm
Ladies pay no cover all night with RSVP
Guys pay no cover until midnight & $10 after with RSVP
RSVP @ www.trystnightlife.com/event/rsvp/145
Saturday
Dino Latino's Ultimate 70'S 80'S 90'S Party
Rios D'Sudamerica
2010 W Armitage Ave
RSVP @ crpartylist@aol.com
http://www.riosdesudamerica.com/
Sunday
SALSA Sundays @ Cubby Bear
1059 W Addison
6pm - 2am
Latin dance lesson at 7pm
Food served until 11pm.
Free Parking
Guest list @ http://www.livesalsasundays.com/
Cocktail for the Week – Passion Play
November 21 - 23, 2008
Friday
Friday Night Fever @ The Joynt
650 N Dearborn$100 bottles of Three Olives Vodka & $150 bottles of Grey Goose before 11pm
Ladies pay no cover all night with RSVP
Guys pay no cover until midnight & $10 after with RSVP
RSVP @ www.trystnightlife.com/event/rsvp/145
Saturday
Dino Latino's Ultimate 70'S 80'S 90'S Party
Rios D'Sudamerica
2010 W Armitage Ave
RSVP @ crpartylist@aol.com
http://www.riosdesudamerica.com/
Sunday
SALSA Sundays @ Cubby Bear
1059 W Addison
6pm - 2am
Latin dance lesson at 7pm
Food served until 11pm.
Free Parking
Guest list @ http://www.livesalsasundays.com/
Cocktail for the Week – Passion Play
- 2oz SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit Vodka
- 2oz Orange juice1oz 7up
Add SKYY and OJ into a shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain over fresh ice into a Collins glass. Top with 7up and garnish with a slice of orange.
Bonus of the Week – Get over the “Hump”
Celebrate Hump Day at Crobar for Tropical Wednesdays
1543 N. Kingsbury
10pm to 4am
Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, with a splash of Reggaeton and a sprinkle of Hip-Hop
$4 Heineken & Heineken Lights, $5 Cazadores tequila shots, $5 Bacardi drinks
No cover with RSVP until midnight @ http://baila.com/v5group-chicago
November Favorite – Hunt Club
Hunt Club
1100 N State http://www.huntclubchicago.com/
Monday: $4 Effen mixers
Tuesday: 1/2 price bottles of wine
Wednesday: $5 mango martinis
Thursday: $5 'O' Bombs, No cover, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Friday: $5 Kamikaze shots, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Saturday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Sunday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, $3 Miller Lite & MGD bottles
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
SPIRITUAL JOURNEY - a love angst (part one)
.22 Love Angst (Part One) by Angela Skeet Davis
This is about love. As I have said in the past, I was not going to write about love. It is not that I have anything against love. But, I wanted to write about my spiritual journey and I thought the two were separate. Quite the contrary. It seems to me that love is pretty much all we talk about. Even when we are not talking about love, we are talking about love….or sex (but that is another conversation left for another day).
Anyway, isn’t love what most of our conversations are about, at least underneath. When we complain about how others treat us, we are really complaining that they don’t treat us with love. When we look at all the “isms” and prejudices that we experience aren’t they all about someone denying us love. And when we are happy or joyful isn’t it really because something positive has happened to us that opens up our hearts to love
Maybe I am over-simplifying things. My point really is, we are made from love, for love, to love. When we deny ourselves the opportunity to experience love, in all its forms, we deny ourselves our very essence. In point of fact, we deny our spirits, our souls, ourselves the ultimate nourishment. You know, scientists have discovered that babies will die or become emotionally dysfunctional if not given love and affection the first year of their lives. So too, we die or become emotionally scarred if we are not given love, if we do not experience love. The profundity of it is almost mind-blowing.
So my question - why would we want to deny ourselves love? ...
This is about love. As I have said in the past, I was not going to write about love. It is not that I have anything against love. But, I wanted to write about my spiritual journey and I thought the two were separate. Quite the contrary. It seems to me that love is pretty much all we talk about. Even when we are not talking about love, we are talking about love….or sex (but that is another conversation left for another day).
Anyway, isn’t love what most of our conversations are about, at least underneath. When we complain about how others treat us, we are really complaining that they don’t treat us with love. When we look at all the “isms” and prejudices that we experience aren’t they all about someone denying us love. And when we are happy or joyful isn’t it really because something positive has happened to us that opens up our hearts to love
Maybe I am over-simplifying things. My point really is, we are made from love, for love, to love. When we deny ourselves the opportunity to experience love, in all its forms, we deny ourselves our very essence. In point of fact, we deny our spirits, our souls, ourselves the ultimate nourishment. You know, scientists have discovered that babies will die or become emotionally dysfunctional if not given love and affection the first year of their lives. So too, we die or become emotionally scarred if we are not given love, if we do not experience love. The profundity of it is almost mind-blowing.
So my question - why would we want to deny ourselves love? ...
And so many of us do, either because of bad break ups or because of broken hearts. But love is a majestic feeling. And while it can cause us to descend to the lowest of lows, it can also lift our hearts and spirits. It can bring a glow to our faces, brighten a day and ease pain. The expression “friendship doubles our joy and divides our grief” is true because friendship is based on mutual love.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that love is perfect. It is not. Nor am I saying that all love lasts. We all know that love can end and sometimes it can end cruelly or bitterly. I recognize that sometimes the end of love can be soooo painful, can beat us up soooo badly, we never want to take a chance on love again. I just do not believe that is the answer.
That is really what I want to talk about. The immobilization that a bad end to loving can bring about. I have read many books and heard many say that we can control our emotions and that the emotions that others cause us to feel are their story and that, as such, we should be able to let go and move on with our own story. Deep inside, I know it is true - the people who break our hearts are not thinking about us or how we are feeling. Half the time, they don’t even realize that we are still lamenting that thing they said or did. So, if they can move on, we should move on. But to know it and then to believe it and act as if it true is each very different and very hard to do.
More importantly, you would think we would all want to let go of the negative effects of painful endings to love. You would think we would all want to just put them out of our minds - leaving space for the next good relationship. But we don’t. Letting go and moving on is like cleaning out the clothes in one’s closet. First, we have to make time to clean out the closet and there are always so many other things we would rather do. Then, we have to figure out what we are going to do with the things we decide to get ride of, which can be a hassle. Now, if we get past this stage and actually start to go through our closet, that is when the hard part begins. We keep things we no longer wear because we hate parting with things we have invested part of our selves in. We tell ourselves that either we are actually going to wear that one day because the style is going to come back or we are going to lose those extra pounds. In reality, it is just easier to keep what we have than deal with throwing things out. We forget getting rid of old means making space for new.
Similarly, we hold on to past relationships. They take up residence in our hearts and minds. Sometimes we believe they will come back. But, more often, we are just scared to venture back out into the world of dating and the possibility of loving again. That fear of falling in love and it failing rears its ugly head and prevents us from experiencing the wonder, beauty and happiness of love. We become cautious in spite of ourselves, because of ourselves.
I know, I know …. tell that to someone who is going through a break-up or a divorce. The pain and devastation left behind is like the work of a wrecking ball - all chaos and confusion and destruction with no hope of recovery. Yet, most of us do, eventually, learn to go on. We do eventually go on again. Granted we take with us the baggage that the ended relationship has left us with, but we move on.
What I want is for us (myself included) is to learn to let go of the baggage. At least some of it. This is one of my favorite things to do to let go and move on. Take some time and think about your relationship. Remember the good memories and take them and place them in your heart album. Then, take all the lessons you have learned and store them away in your brain to be pulled out as needed. Take what is left, grind it into grains of sand and blow it all away. It is not an easy task but with practice, it can work. What it does is allow you to let go of the negatives and keep only the positives.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that love is perfect. It is not. Nor am I saying that all love lasts. We all know that love can end and sometimes it can end cruelly or bitterly. I recognize that sometimes the end of love can be soooo painful, can beat us up soooo badly, we never want to take a chance on love again. I just do not believe that is the answer.
That is really what I want to talk about. The immobilization that a bad end to loving can bring about. I have read many books and heard many say that we can control our emotions and that the emotions that others cause us to feel are their story and that, as such, we should be able to let go and move on with our own story. Deep inside, I know it is true - the people who break our hearts are not thinking about us or how we are feeling. Half the time, they don’t even realize that we are still lamenting that thing they said or did. So, if they can move on, we should move on. But to know it and then to believe it and act as if it true is each very different and very hard to do.
More importantly, you would think we would all want to let go of the negative effects of painful endings to love. You would think we would all want to just put them out of our minds - leaving space for the next good relationship. But we don’t. Letting go and moving on is like cleaning out the clothes in one’s closet. First, we have to make time to clean out the closet and there are always so many other things we would rather do. Then, we have to figure out what we are going to do with the things we decide to get ride of, which can be a hassle. Now, if we get past this stage and actually start to go through our closet, that is when the hard part begins. We keep things we no longer wear because we hate parting with things we have invested part of our selves in. We tell ourselves that either we are actually going to wear that one day because the style is going to come back or we are going to lose those extra pounds. In reality, it is just easier to keep what we have than deal with throwing things out. We forget getting rid of old means making space for new.
Similarly, we hold on to past relationships. They take up residence in our hearts and minds. Sometimes we believe they will come back. But, more often, we are just scared to venture back out into the world of dating and the possibility of loving again. That fear of falling in love and it failing rears its ugly head and prevents us from experiencing the wonder, beauty and happiness of love. We become cautious in spite of ourselves, because of ourselves.
I know, I know …. tell that to someone who is going through a break-up or a divorce. The pain and devastation left behind is like the work of a wrecking ball - all chaos and confusion and destruction with no hope of recovery. Yet, most of us do, eventually, learn to go on. We do eventually go on again. Granted we take with us the baggage that the ended relationship has left us with, but we move on.
What I want is for us (myself included) is to learn to let go of the baggage. At least some of it. This is one of my favorite things to do to let go and move on. Take some time and think about your relationship. Remember the good memories and take them and place them in your heart album. Then, take all the lessons you have learned and store them away in your brain to be pulled out as needed. Take what is left, grind it into grains of sand and blow it all away. It is not an easy task but with practice, it can work. What it does is allow you to let go of the negatives and keep only the positives.
“I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.”
Mother Theresa of Calcutta (August 26, 1910 to September 5, 1997
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Live Video From Obama Election Night Rally in Grant Park
By Neonu Jewell
I was there for this momentous night. God blessed us with 70 degree weather (Chicago? November?); the stage was set. You have heard the stories, commentary, and seen footage. Now Click Here for my video experience of the night Illinois Senator Barack Obama became the 44th President (elect) of the United States of America. Sounds good every time, doesn't it?!
I was there for this momentous night. God blessed us with 70 degree weather (Chicago? November?); the stage was set. You have heard the stories, commentary, and seen footage. Now Click Here for my video experience of the night Illinois Senator Barack Obama became the 44th President (elect) of the United States of America. Sounds good every time, doesn't it?!
DW's Loop
“How can you stay in the Loop, if you aren’t in the Loop?” November 14 - 16, 2008
Friday
IMAGE Chicago 3 Year Anniversary Party @ Bon V
1100 W Randolph
Presented by Outfit Events and Vibe Is Right
Hosted Bar from 9pm - 10:30pm
No Cover before 11pm with RSVP
RSVP @ http://app.mobilestorm.com/stun/viewRsvpForm.php?q=Mzk3OA
Saturday
Saturdays @Y Bar with DJ KJ
Y Bar
224 W Ontario10pmn – 3am
Hosted by Tony Macey
Sunday
Poetry Slam at the Green Mill
4802 N. Broadway
Open mic @ 7pm
Performers @ 8pm
Slam competition @ 9pm
www.greenmilljazz.com
Cocktail for the Week – Windy City Breezing
Pour over ice in a Collins glass. Garnish with an orange wedge
Bonus of the Week – Get to Tapping
Chicago Tap Summit
November 14 - 16
South Shore Cultural Center
7059 S South Shore Drive
$10 per performance
$15 history panel and lunch
$30 per class
$300 all-access pass
For more information:
Call 773-604-1899
http://maddrhythms.com/Summit08.html
November Favorite – Hunt Club
Hunt Club
1100 N State
www.huntclubchicago.com
Monday: $4 Effen mixers
Tuesday: 1/2 price bottles of wine
Wednesday: $5 mango martinis
Thursday: $5 'O' Bombs, No cover, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Friday: $5 Kamikaze shots, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Saturday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Sunday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, $3 Miller Lite & MGD bottles
Friday
IMAGE Chicago 3 Year Anniversary Party @ Bon V
1100 W Randolph
Presented by Outfit Events and Vibe Is Right
Hosted Bar from 9pm - 10:30pm
No Cover before 11pm with RSVP
RSVP @ http://app.mobilestorm.com/stun/viewRsvpForm.php?q=Mzk3OA
Saturday
Saturdays @Y Bar with DJ KJ
Y Bar
224 W Ontario
10pmn – 3amHosted by Tony Macey
Sunday
Poetry Slam at the Green Mill
4802 N. Broadway
Open mic @ 7pm
Performers @ 8pm
Slam competition @ 9pm
www.greenmilljazz.com
Cocktail for the Week – Windy City Breezing
- 1 part Vodka
- 1 part Cranberry juice
- 2 smart dashes of grapefruit
Pour over ice in a Collins glass. Garnish with an orange wedge
Bonus of the Week – Get to Tapping
Chicago Tap Summit
November 14 - 16
South Shore Cultural Center
7059 S South Shore Drive
$10 per performance
$15 history panel and lunch
$30 per class
$300 all-access pass
For more information:
Call 773-604-1899
http://maddrhythms.com/Summit08.html
November Favorite – Hunt Club
Hunt Club
1100 N State
www.huntclubchicago.com
Monday: $4 Effen mixers
Tuesday: 1/2 price bottles of wine
Wednesday: $5 mango martinis
Thursday: $5 'O' Bombs, No cover, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Friday: $5 Kamikaze shots, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Saturday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Sunday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, $3 Miller Lite & MGD bottles
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
5 Guys Moves to Chicago: 5 Stars
By Neonu Jewell
My favorite burger joint in D.C. is now in Chicago. Five Guys Burgers and Fries opened its first Chicagoland restaurant in Oak Park (1115 Lake St.) yesterday. Five Guys started in Arlington Virginia and has spread to over 300 locations in 25 states.
Why do we love Five Guys? It is the taste, quality, options, and price. Meals are approximate $8.
My favorite burger joint in D.C. is now in Chicago. Five Guys Burgers and Fries opened its first Chicagoland restaurant in Oak Park (1115 Lake St.) yesterday. Five Guys started in Arlington Virginia and has spread to over 300 locations in 25 states.
Why do we love Five Guys? It is the taste, quality, options, and price. Meals are approximate $8.
- There are over 250,000 possible ways to order a burger at Five Guys.
- They use only 100% all-American fresh ground beef.
- There are no freezers in Five Guys locations, just coolers. Nothing is ever frozen.
- They use only Peanut oil.
- They use only Idaho potatoes.
- The menu is trans-fat free.
Five Guys has already secured four additional Chicago locations. Next month a Lincoln Park (2140 N. Clybourn) location will open. In early 2009, stores will open in Schaumburg and Orland Park. I am spreading the word about Five Guys for those of you who don't already know, because they do not advertise. They rely on word of mouth. It works. After you eat there, you will tell your friends. See you there!
SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
.21 My November Fourth
by Angela Skeete Davis
I hope all of you have been well. I also hope all of you voted and celebrated the dawn of a new era in politics. It is truly amazing
how far we have come.
My voting day was something to remember. I went to the polls with a very interesting group of voters. Two were naturalized citizens. Although each of them has been in the United States for over twenty years, neither had bothered to register to vote. Both of them felt the act to be totally pointless. However, both of them registered to vote as soon as then Senator Barack Obama became the Democratic candidate...
Both of them were up early to vote on November 4th. But because the polls were so crowded, they went to the polls later in the day with me. I asked them why they had chosen to register this time around and why they were so eager to vote. In summary they both agreed that they were proud that America had finally realized the worth of Black people, that it was an honor to be able to vote for a black person and how important it was to get out, send a message and make a difference. But they also said (the theme I heard the most of that day ) they wanted to be a part of history.
Also in my group were two older women, one was eighty-six and the other was ninety-two. The two of them were so excited to vote. They both continued to express their delight in having lived to witness not just a black man run for president, but to see a black man get the nomination of their party and then actually have a chance to win the election. They could barely contain their joy. When we arrived at the polls, the sight of all the people on line, actually waiting to vote, brought them to tears. They were overwhelmed and their joy filled me with such a sense of pride, I felt my eyes fill as well.
I also went to the polls with a young man who had just turned eighteen. It was his first time voting. He called me first thing in the morning to see if I had already voted. I hadn't. He asked if he could go with me because he had just left the polls and the were packed, but that he was impatient to get back to the polls. He said he was proud to be able to vote, proud to be able to vote for a black man, proud to be a part of history. And after he voted, he was unable to stop smiling. Later that day, when a bunch of us were talking about our voting experience, he turned and said, “It is finally true. Anyone can be anything in this country, even president of the United States. I can be anything I want. If Obama can do it, I can do it.”
I am not a senior citizen. I am not a first time voter. I am not a naturalized citizen. I have always voted and have always taken my daughter and my godson with me to vote. I have always believed my vote mattered. I have always believed black people should vote. I have always believed we can/could/would make a difference with our vote. But voting with this group of people made me proud. I am proud of them for wanting to be a part of history, proud of all the people I saw at the polls waiting to cast their vote, even if it meant hours, proud to be black, proud to be alive to witness history, proud of President Elect Barack Obama for reaching for his dreams, proud of his friends and family for supporting him, and proud of the democratic party for realizing a good man and supporting his dream. I am proud just proud.
As my girlfriend said to me, in her e-mail, the day after the election, "Welcome back America...my America, that is full of promises and hope and is once again a land that we can dream of in her greatness." Now the work really begins...
by Angela Skeete Davis
I hope all of you have been well. I also hope all of you voted and celebrated the dawn of a new era in politics. It is truly amazing
how far we have come.My voting day was something to remember. I went to the polls with a very interesting group of voters. Two were naturalized citizens. Although each of them has been in the United States for over twenty years, neither had bothered to register to vote. Both of them felt the act to be totally pointless. However, both of them registered to vote as soon as then Senator Barack Obama became the Democratic candidate...
Both of them were up early to vote on November 4th. But because the polls were so crowded, they went to the polls later in the day with me. I asked them why they had chosen to register this time around and why they were so eager to vote. In summary they both agreed that they were proud that America had finally realized the worth of Black people, that it was an honor to be able to vote for a black person and how important it was to get out, send a message and make a difference. But they also said (the theme I heard the most of that day ) they wanted to be a part of history.
Also in my group were two older women, one was eighty-six and the other was ninety-two. The two of them were so excited to vote. They both continued to express their delight in having lived to witness not just a black man run for president, but to see a black man get the nomination of their party and then actually have a chance to win the election. They could barely contain their joy. When we arrived at the polls, the sight of all the people on line, actually waiting to vote, brought them to tears. They were overwhelmed and their joy filled me with such a sense of pride, I felt my eyes fill as well.
I also went to the polls with a young man who had just turned eighteen. It was his first time voting. He called me first thing in the morning to see if I had already voted. I hadn't. He asked if he could go with me because he had just left the polls and the were packed, but that he was impatient to get back to the polls. He said he was proud to be able to vote, proud to be able to vote for a black man, proud to be a part of history. And after he voted, he was unable to stop smiling. Later that day, when a bunch of us were talking about our voting experience, he turned and said, “It is finally true. Anyone can be anything in this country, even president of the United States. I can be anything I want. If Obama can do it, I can do it.”
I am not a senior citizen. I am not a first time voter. I am not a naturalized citizen. I have always voted and have always taken my daughter and my godson with me to vote. I have always believed my vote mattered. I have always believed black people should vote. I have always believed we can/could/would make a difference with our vote. But voting with this group of people made me proud. I am proud of them for wanting to be a part of history, proud of all the people I saw at the polls waiting to cast their vote, even if it meant hours, proud to be black, proud to be alive to witness history, proud of President Elect Barack Obama for reaching for his dreams, proud of his friends and family for supporting him, and proud of the democratic party for realizing a good man and supporting his dream. I am proud just proud.
As my girlfriend said to me, in her e-mail, the day after the election, "Welcome back America...my America, that is full of promises and hope and is once again a land that we can dream of in her greatness." Now the work really begins...
Yes We Can!
Barack Obama, President Elect of the United States of America
Barack Obama, President Elect of the United States of America
O's Corner: Apple Cake Recipe
This apple recipe is from a friend in Boston. Years ago I had thanksgiving dinner with her family and her mother served this for dessert. It was truly spectacular. It took me months to convince her to give me the recipe. She only did so when I told her I was leaving Boston to get married. It was her wedding gift to me. I’m thinking of making this one for Thanksgiving.
· 3 cups raw apples, grated or finely chopped
· 2 cups sugar
· ¾ cup vegetable oil
· 2 eggs, well beaten
Mix together and let stand while sifting dry ingredients below (or drop into cake mixer, blender or food processor and mix)...
· 3 cups flour
· ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
· 1 teaspoon each baking powder, cinnamon, soda, salt, vanilla
· ¾ cup nuts, finely chopped
Add to first mixture. Beat thoroughly. Pour into buttered and floured 10 inch tube pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until done. Test by inserting a knife. If it comes out dry, cake is ready. Serve plain or spread while hot with broiled topping.
BROILED TOPPING
· 4 tablespoons light cream
· 1 cup coconut
· 2/3 cup light brown sugar
· ½ stick butter or margarine, softened at room temperature
Cream all together in processor or blender and spread over hot cake as it comes from the oven. Return to oven and place under broiler until bubbly and light brown.
Happy Holidays!!! Remember, until next Wednesday, Keep it Simple and Fast
To Do in DC - November
Wednesday, November 11
Lehrman Foundation Impact Award
Where: Steptoe & Johnson LLP, 1330 Connecticut Ave. NW ,Washington , DC
When: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 6:30pm
How much: No Charge
What to do: RSVP to Noel Tieszen at noel.tieszen@interstages.org
Who: The Interstages Board - Noel Tieszen, Herb Scott, Camelia Mazard, Patrick Linehan, Kamila Thigpen, Eugenie Charles-Lewis
Join the Interstages family for an evening of celebration as we recognize the tremendous impact that Interstages is making in the lives of our girls and the support of everyone who continues to make it possible. I hope you can join the amazing Board and staff of Interstages, the 2008 Lehrman Foundation Impact Award recipient, as they celebrate the tremendous difference they are making in the lives DC middle school girls.
If you are not familiar with Insterstages, this event provides you with a great opportunity to learn more about the amazing work they are doing East of the Anacostia River. Hope to see you on the 19th!
Lehrman Foundation Impact Award
Where: Steptoe & Johnson LLP, 1330 Connecticut Ave. NW ,Washington , DC
When: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 6:30pm
How much: No Charge
What to do: RSVP to Noel Tieszen at noel.tieszen@interstages.org
Who: The Interstages Board - Noel Tieszen, Herb Scott, Camelia Mazard, Patrick Linehan, Kamila Thigpen, Eugenie Charles-Lewis
Join the Interstages family for an evening of celebration as we recognize the tremendous impact that Interstages is making in the lives of our girls and the support of everyone who continues to make it possible. I hope you can join the amazing Board and staff of Interstages, the 2008 Lehrman Foundation Impact Award recipient, as they celebrate the tremendous difference they are making in the lives DC middle school girls.
If you are not familiar with Insterstages, this event provides you with a great opportunity to learn more about the amazing work they are doing East of the Anacostia River. Hope to see you on the 19th!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Live Video Interviews From the 2008 Hoodie Awards Red (Blue) Carpet
Interviews by Neonu Jewell
Video by Treva Saunders
Video by Treva Saunders
Neonu's InSite was live in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Orleans Arena on the Ford Blue Carpet at the 2008 6th Annual Hoodie Awards hosted by Steve Harvey. Check out my interviews and coverage of Shirley Strawberry, Nephew Tommy, Kirk & Tammy Franklin, Noel Gourdin, Dwele, Cupid, comedian Bruce Bruce, "Showroom Shine" the Hoodie Award Winners for Best Detail Shop (St. Louis), Terrence J & Rocsi with Hoodie Award Winner "Fade Shop", Best Barber Shop, Stephen A. Smith, Steve & Marjorie Harvey with Patti LaBelle, Regina King, and Dr. Ian Smith (5o Million LB Challenge) & Sommore.
Friday, November 7, 2008
DW's Loop
“How can you stay in the Loop, if you aren’t in the Loop?”November 7 - 9, 2008
Friday
Tryst presents Friday Night Fever (Three spots in one night)
Part I
City Pool Hall
640 W Hubbard
7pm - 11pm
Get a free pass to the Joynt
Part II
The Joynt
650 N Dearborn
9pm – 2am
$200 bottles through Tryst
RSVP @ www.trystnightlife.com/event/rsvp/142
Part III
Ontourage
157 W Ontario
1am – 4am
Say Tryst for no cover
Saturday
Chicago Urban League presents nextTV Launch Party
Hilton Chicago Continental Ballroom
720 S Michigan
10pm – 2am
$50 (Scholarship fundraiser)
Performance by Noel Gourdin
Music by DJ Vince Adams
Sunday
Chris Green Quartet @ Philander's 1110 Pleasant St, Oak Park, IL 7:45pm
No coverhttp://www.chrisgreenejazz.com/
Cocktail for the Week – Frozen Mango Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- 2 mangos
- 1 tbsp superfine sugar
Combine ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a cocktail glass, add ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.
Bonus of the Week – Miller Genuine Draft: Genuine Flow
Thursday, November 13
MGD: Genuine Flow featuring performances by Cee-LO and the Roots
Vic Theatre
3145 N Sheffield Ave
http://rsvp.chicago.mgd.com/av.do#
November Favorite – Hunt Club
Hunt Club
1100 N State
http://www.huntclubchicago.com/
Monday: $4 Effen mixers
Tuesday: 1/2 price bottles of wine
Wednesday: $5 mango martinis
Thursday: $5 'O' Bombs, No cover, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Friday: $5 Kamikaze shots, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Saturday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, DJs from 10pm - 2am
Sunday: $5 Skyy Bloody Mary's, $3 Miller Lite & MGD bottles
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Day After Obama's Victory: One Man's Thoughts
By Tajiri Smith 
I hope everyone wakes up to this knowing that this has been the best 24hrs. of my life. This historic moment has made me believe that anything is possible if you put your mind and your heart to it! Regardless of who you voted for I hope that each and every one of us will sit back and understand that this is history. We can sit back and tell our kids and grand kids of this election. I hope that regardless of your prior beliefs that we will open our hearts and our minds to those of all races, religious beliefs, and sexual preferences and realize that we are still all one people living in a country of great opportunity. What we all witnessed tonight was an amazing feat, and I hope that we all can take great satisfaction in knowing that we live in a country that allows that opportunity to all! Enjoy your day knowing that "Change is Here!"
Monday, November 3, 2008
Nov. 4 Election Night Events (Chicago)
Presidential Candidate Barack Obama will be spending election night in Grant Park in Chicago. But for those of us who don't have tickets, here are some other venues where we can watch the results of our votes:
Rock the Vote
Entity Entertainment and PLS Magazine Presents Party of Choice
Crimson Lounge
333 N. Dearborn (inside of Hotel Sax.)
10pm-Until
Complimentary Cocktails provided by 10 Cane, Belvedere and Hennessy
RSVP @: Helen@plsmag.com
Election Results Watch Party
Hard Rock Café
63 W Ontario
7pm – 2am
Hosted by Common, Talib Kweli and Rahsaan Gordon
DJs: Vince Adams, Mark Fullaflava and Sean Mac
RSVP @ changeevent@attorneygordon.com
CS Magazine and Landmark Grill + Lounge: Campaign Headquarters
Landmark Grill + Lounge
1633 N Halsted Street
6pm - 9pm
Cocktails, Complimentary Hors D'oeuvres
$8 Specialty Blue & Red Champagne Cocktails
RSVP @ RSVPCHICAGO@Modernluxury.Com
Afrodisiak Clothing @ Steele Life Gallery
4655 S King Dr
5pm to 5am
DJs: Sean Alvarez, DJ Limelight, DJ Phokiss, DJ Chill Will nka Joe Kollege.
Al Jeezera news will be broadcasting from the gallery
RSVP @ rsvp.steelelife@gmail.com
Red, White and Whiskey Blue Election Party
Whiskey Blue
172 W Adams
6 pm - 12 am
No cover
$4 themed cocktails such as Obamagranate Martinis and Maverick Manhattans
AND MORE...
Election viewing Party at Room 43
1043 E 43rd Street
5pm – until
No Cover
Hosted by Rhonda Flowers and KoKo
Live entertainment by Maggie Brown
DJs: Andre Hatchett, KoKo, Brain Sayles, David Sabat and more
Lip Service Productions and Chrome Entertainment present the Election Night Soiree
Rio’s
2010 West Armitage (just west of Damen)
6pm-2am
Complimentary Wine from 7:30-8:30pm
Salsa Dancing After 10:30pm
$12 Sangria Pitchers All Night
Serving Dinner until 11pm
RSVP for the VIP Guest List @ DowntownMissyB@Yahoo.com
Election Night at the Fifty/50
2047 W Division St.
Begins at 4 pm
No cover
Bring voting receipt for a complimentary beer.
Election Night special at C-View
166 E Superior St.
4 pm - 10pm
No cover
One complimentary appetizer with the purchase of two drinks.
TVONE & ESSENCE.com presents Results Watch Party Election ‘08Hilton & Towers - International Ballroom
720 South Michigan Features DJ BIZ MARKIE
RSVP @ http://www.jessejacksonjr2008.com/ print out your confirmation for entry.
Call 312-431-8801 for info on reserving a table
N Da House Promotions Election Day Celebration
The New Reynolds
938 E. 75th St (3 blocks east of Cottage)
6pm -2am
Free food and drink specials all night
DJs Mike Dunn, Nick Non-Stop and Byron Burke of Ten City.
Party at the Polls Event
Community Family Life Center
119 E Garfield Blvd
8am – 3pm
Hosted by Rock the Vote, I-GO Car Sharing & K.L.E.O. Community Center
Live radio broadcast by KISS-FM 103.5’s Nina Chantele
Performances by Robert Jones; The Youth for Christ; Jessie White Tumblers and more
For more info contact Lincoln Stephens @ lincoln.stephens@gmail.com
Election '08 Viewing Party
Exposure Restaurant & Lounge
1315 S Wabash
RSVP @ RSVPMe@ChicagoBlackProfessionalNetwork.com
Lumpen & the Silver Room present Election Night Fight
Sonotheque
1444 W. Chicago
All specialty cocktails only $5!
No Cover
Election Viewing Party at Powerhouse Restaurant and Bar
11:30am - 1am
215 N Clinton St
$2 appetizers
Drink specials: McCain Mango Mojito and Obama's Chi-Town Cocktails. Wabash
No Cover
Rockit the Vote
Rockit Bar and Grill
22 W Hubbard
Lounge Open at 4pm
Live Election Coverage All Night Long
M Lounge
1520 S Wabash
Doors open at 5pmComplimentary appetizers. Julia Huff playing jazz in the background 7pm – 10pm. 10pm turn up the TVs.
Crimson Lounge
333 N. Dearborn (inside of Hotel Sax.)
10pm-Until
Complimentary Cocktails provided by 10 Cane, Belvedere and Hennessy
RSVP @: Helen@plsmag.com
Election Results Watch Party
Hard Rock Café
63 W Ontario
7pm – 2am
Hosted by Common, Talib Kweli and Rahsaan Gordon
DJs: Vince Adams, Mark Fullaflava and Sean Mac
RSVP @ changeevent@attorneygordon.com
CS Magazine and Landmark Grill + Lounge: Campaign Headquarters
Landmark Grill + Lounge
1633 N Halsted Street
6pm - 9pm
Cocktails, Complimentary Hors D'oeuvres
$8 Specialty Blue & Red Champagne Cocktails
RSVP @ RSVPCHICAGO@Modernluxury.Com
Afrodisiak Clothing @ Steele Life Gallery
4655 S King Dr
5pm to 5am
DJs: Sean Alvarez, DJ Limelight, DJ Phokiss, DJ Chill Will nka Joe Kollege.
Al Jeezera news will be broadcasting from the gallery
RSVP @ rsvp.steelelife@gmail.com
Red, White and Whiskey Blue Election Party
Whiskey Blue
172 W Adams
6 pm - 12 am
No cover
$4 themed cocktails such as Obamagranate Martinis and Maverick Manhattans
AND MORE...
Election viewing Party at Room 43
1043 E 43rd Street
5pm – until
No Cover
Hosted by Rhonda Flowers and KoKo
Live entertainment by Maggie Brown
DJs: Andre Hatchett, KoKo, Brain Sayles, David Sabat and more
Lip Service Productions and Chrome Entertainment present the Election Night Soiree
Rio’s
2010 West Armitage (just west of Damen)
6pm-2am
Complimentary Wine from 7:30-8:30pm
Salsa Dancing After 10:30pm
$12 Sangria Pitchers All Night
Serving Dinner until 11pm
RSVP for the VIP Guest List @ DowntownMissyB@Yahoo.com
Election Night at the Fifty/50
2047 W Division St.
Begins at 4 pm
No cover
Bring voting receipt for a complimentary beer.
Election Night special at C-View
166 E Superior St.
4 pm - 10pm
No cover
One complimentary appetizer with the purchase of two drinks.
TVONE & ESSENCE.com presents Results Watch Party Election ‘08Hilton & Towers - International Ballroom
720 South Michigan Features DJ BIZ MARKIE
RSVP @ http://www.jessejacksonjr2008.com/ print out your confirmation for entry.
Call 312-431-8801 for info on reserving a table
N Da House Promotions Election Day Celebration
The New Reynolds
938 E. 75th St (3 blocks east of Cottage)
6pm -2am
Free food and drink specials all night
DJs Mike Dunn, Nick Non-Stop and Byron Burke of Ten City.
Party at the Polls Event
Community Family Life Center
119 E Garfield Blvd
8am – 3pm
Hosted by Rock the Vote, I-GO Car Sharing & K.L.E.O. Community Center
Live radio broadcast by KISS-FM 103.5’s Nina Chantele
Performances by Robert Jones; The Youth for Christ; Jessie White Tumblers and more
For more info contact Lincoln Stephens @ lincoln.stephens@gmail.com
Election '08 Viewing Party
Exposure Restaurant & Lounge
1315 S Wabash
RSVP @ RSVPMe@ChicagoBlackProfessionalNetwork.com
Lumpen & the Silver Room present Election Night Fight
Sonotheque
1444 W. Chicago
All specialty cocktails only $5!
No Cover
Election Viewing Party at Powerhouse Restaurant and Bar
11:30am - 1am
215 N Clinton St
$2 appetizers
Drink specials: McCain Mango Mojito and Obama's Chi-Town Cocktails. Wabash
No Cover
Rockit the Vote
Rockit Bar and Grill
22 W Hubbard
Lounge Open at 4pm
Live Election Coverage All Night Long
M Lounge
1520 S Wabash
Doors open at 5pmComplimentary appetizers. Julia Huff playing jazz in the background 7pm – 10pm. 10pm turn up the TVs.
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