So a few months ago, there was a buzz about Roller Derby. I had my doubts, but I checked it out and I loved it.
Of course, I’m talking about the Windy City Rollers, the all female flat track roller derby league that calls the UIC Pavilion home. The league is made up of four teams: the Double Crossers, Hell’s Belles, The Fury and the Manic Attack, plus a traveling team.When I went to the travel league’s game a few months ago, I had no idea about the rules or what was going on, but it wasn’t long before I figured it out and enjoyed what I was seeing.
The girls have names like Reina Chaos, Mona Lott, Helsa Wayton, Blazing Inferno and Juanna Rumble. Most are inked up, punk or goth girls who play the weekend warrior role very well. I was amazed at not only how they could skate on those old fashion roller skates but the physicality and the speed of the sport. I don’t know what women’s roller derby was like in the ’70’s, but this version is tattooed, faster, tougher and with some Slayer playing in the background, and that is how everyone wants it.
Well, before halftime, I had figured out how teams scored and was beginning to get a handle on what was taking place. By the end, I was cheering and enjoying myself with the rest of the crowd.So here is how it works. Each team has five players on the track at one time — 1 pivot, 3 blockers and 1 jammer. At the first whistle, everyone begins skating except for the jammers, who are a few feet back. Then there is a second whistle and the jammers can take off. The jammers must first get through the other eight girls on the track, but those eight are allowed to do almost everything they can to deny the other team’s jammer to get through.
The first jammer to get through is the lead jammer, who can call off the jam. Once a jammer is through the pack of girls, they must skate around the track again and try to pass members of the other team. This time, when they pass a member of the other team, they get a point for each one. It sounds a little confusing, but when you are watching, it’s actually very easy to follow.
I’m not going to get into some of the other rules because I don’t really understand them. But what I said above is what you need to know to understand how the points are earned.
The next bout for the Windy City Rollers will be this Saturday, May 30 at the UIC Pavilion, 525 S. Racine Ave. The doors open at 5 p.m., and the event starts at six. The Belles will take on the Manics, and the Crossers will take on the Fury to decide who will play for the championship on June 20, which will also be at UIC, same time.
You have heard their advertisements all over Q101. The events are a lot of fun, and the crowd really gets into it. After matches, there usually is an after-party. When I went, the party was at Cobra Lounge, but the site has since changed.
I would recommend Roller Derby not just to sports fans, but to everyone. It’s a fun time with a great atmosphere. It’s hard not to get caught up in the action and cheer for your favorite team, or just cheer for the hell of it. There were a number of kids at the match I went to, and the players were available afterward to take pictures and sign autographs.
Just don’t get on these girls bad side. Would you want to mess with anyone named Juanna Rumble?For tickets or to check out the teams, go to windycityrollers.com.
(Chuck Salvatore is a general assignment reporter for the Southwest News-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800, ext. 241; at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com; or at chucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Be sure to catch him every Thursday on the Linda Padgurskis show from noon to 1 p.m. and every Friday on the Out’N’About talk show with Ron and Joe from 2 to 3 p.m., both on WJJG 1530 AM.)
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Not so Most Beautiful List
So People Magazine released their “Most Beautiful List” today, and here are my thoughts. Oh I left out the men because, well I don’t care about the men.
#1 CHRISTINA APPLEGATE
Okay so I get she had cancer, but she should not be on this list. She was attractive 10 years ago, not so much anymore. And to be named the “Most beautiful” I seriously want to know who picks these and the reasons they are named or ranked.
HALLE BERRY
Yeah she is hot, but I’m seriously getting sick of her.
90210 STARS Jessica Stroup, 22, AnnaLynne McCord, 21, Jessica Lowndes, 20, and Shenae Grimes, 19
Um who the hell are these people. AnnaLynee McCord is not attractive, she wasn’t when she was on Nip/Tuck and she isn’t now. Put some meat on your bones, girl you are too skinny. The others I don’t have a problem with.
CIARA
Who the hell is this? Um she’s also not that cute
CHRISTINA AGUILERA
Yeah she is hot, great body no problems here.
FREIDA PINTO
It’s the chick from Slumdog Millionaire, first that movie was not that good. It was okay at best, but didn’t deserve best picture. Second, Pinto is semi attractive, but I can think of a lot better women to be on this list.
JULIANNE HOUGH
I have no idea who this is either, but she is hot.
TAYLOR SWIFT
Not that impressed, she’s another one who is okay looking.
MICHELLE OBAMA
Sorry she is not attractive
MELISSA RYCROFT
Great body
TAYLOR MOMSEN
She is 15 and shouldn’t be on the list, also to skinny put on some meat
KRISTEN WIIG
This one I really like, very attractive, very funny and under rated.
ANGELINA JOLIE
Very sexy, but she is the last person listed. What makes one person more or less beautiful one year than in pat or present years.
Anyways these lists are stupid as hell anyways. It’s just a way for one magazine to tell us who we are supposed to like and who we are supposed to find attractive. I bet if they asked real men and women who they found attractive the answers would be a lot different.
#1 CHRISTINA APPLEGATE
Okay so I get she had cancer, but she should not be on this list. She was attractive 10 years ago, not so much anymore. And to be named the “Most beautiful” I seriously want to know who picks these and the reasons they are named or ranked.
HALLE BERRY
Yeah she is hot, but I’m seriously getting sick of her.
90210 STARS Jessica Stroup, 22, AnnaLynne McCord, 21, Jessica Lowndes, 20, and Shenae Grimes, 19
Um who the hell are these people. AnnaLynee McCord is not attractive, she wasn’t when she was on Nip/Tuck and she isn’t now. Put some meat on your bones, girl you are too skinny. The others I don’t have a problem with.
CIARA
Who the hell is this? Um she’s also not that cute
CHRISTINA AGUILERA
Yeah she is hot, great body no problems here.
FREIDA PINTO
It’s the chick from Slumdog Millionaire, first that movie was not that good. It was okay at best, but didn’t deserve best picture. Second, Pinto is semi attractive, but I can think of a lot better women to be on this list.
JULIANNE HOUGH
I have no idea who this is either, but she is hot.
TAYLOR SWIFT
Not that impressed, she’s another one who is okay looking.
MICHELLE OBAMA
Sorry she is not attractive
MELISSA RYCROFT
Great body
TAYLOR MOMSEN
She is 15 and shouldn’t be on the list, also to skinny put on some meat
KRISTEN WIIG
This one I really like, very attractive, very funny and under rated.
ANGELINA JOLIE
Very sexy, but she is the last person listed. What makes one person more or less beautiful one year than in pat or present years.
Anyways these lists are stupid as hell anyways. It’s just a way for one magazine to tell us who we are supposed to like and who we are supposed to find attractive. I bet if they asked real men and women who they found attractive the answers would be a lot different.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
AIG Bonuses and Video of People and Dogs
So, is anyone else kind of aggravated that these executives from AIG got $165 million in bonuses?
These are the same people who were directly or indirectly responsible for putting their company in a mess, but they get millions in bonuses. So our taxpayer money goes to a bunch of guys who screwed up.
That would be like me doing something at the News-Herald that causes the owners to lose a lot of money and then go to the federal government to ask for funding. So after getting free money, they decided to give me a bonus.And then there’s the story about another company that received a bailout giving Sheryl Crow a lot of money to come and sing for them. Of all the news outlets to break this story, it was TMZ.com.
Someone needs to sit down and come up with some better guidelines before any additional bailout money is given out, like limit what these companies can do with their bailout cash. In other words, make sure they don’t give the money to executives or stars who already have enough money to survive.
* * *
I came across a story that just proves there are some sick and stupid people out there. An Indiana woman was charged with two felony counts of bestiality. Michelle Owen was charged after she alerted police to a computer where she believed her ex was downloading child pornography. So the police were able to search it, but they didn’t find any child pornography.
Instead, they found two videos in which Owen was seen engaging in sexual activity with a dog. You can google her name to read all the details I can’t print here.
Forget about why in the world you would decide to let a dog lick your private area. Why would you tape it? How many times do we read about criminals who are doing something illegal and tape it? This just doesn’t apply to your everyday moron bank robber, celebrity and star athlete who only care about “making it rain” and their next endorsement deal. In this digital age, when everyone has a cell phone camera, you never know who is going to make a copy of your film or steal it.
And OK, so you film yourself engaging in sexual activity with a dog, tape it and it is on your computer. Wouldn’t you remember not to allow the police check that computer? And Owen’s ex is also allegedly on this videotape, and they have a child together. It is no wonder that there are so many stupid people running around who don’t know right from wrong. Their parents can’t raise them or teach them because they are too busy drinking and filming themselves with Lassie.
So a lesson to stupid criminals out there: Stop filming yourselves engaging in illegal activity. Or don’t, because it gives me something to write about, and it puts money in my pocket. So go ahead, film yourself robbing a bank or performing sexual acts or beating someone up. Better yet, while you are taping such crimes, you should Twitter them so we know for sure that it is you.
Speaking of Twitter, yes I am on it. And yes, you should follow me. But people don’t have to update it every time they decide to go to the bathroom. This is just another example about why there is no privacy anymore in this world. Everywhere you go, there are cameras watching. And where they aren’t watching, people are posting that they are “loving American Idol tonight.”
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the Southwest News-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800, ext 241, at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com or at chucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also, don’t forget to catch him at 8 a.m. every Thursday with Ray Hanania for his entertainment report, his sports reports from noon to 1 p.m. every Thursday on the Linda P Show, and from 2 to 3 p.m. every Friday on the Out’N’About show with Ron and Joe — all on WJJG 1530 AM.)
These are the same people who were directly or indirectly responsible for putting their company in a mess, but they get millions in bonuses. So our taxpayer money goes to a bunch of guys who screwed up.
That would be like me doing something at the News-Herald that causes the owners to lose a lot of money and then go to the federal government to ask for funding. So after getting free money, they decided to give me a bonus.And then there’s the story about another company that received a bailout giving Sheryl Crow a lot of money to come and sing for them. Of all the news outlets to break this story, it was TMZ.com.
Someone needs to sit down and come up with some better guidelines before any additional bailout money is given out, like limit what these companies can do with their bailout cash. In other words, make sure they don’t give the money to executives or stars who already have enough money to survive.
* * *
I came across a story that just proves there are some sick and stupid people out there. An Indiana woman was charged with two felony counts of bestiality. Michelle Owen was charged after she alerted police to a computer where she believed her ex was downloading child pornography. So the police were able to search it, but they didn’t find any child pornography.
Instead, they found two videos in which Owen was seen engaging in sexual activity with a dog. You can google her name to read all the details I can’t print here.
Forget about why in the world you would decide to let a dog lick your private area. Why would you tape it? How many times do we read about criminals who are doing something illegal and tape it? This just doesn’t apply to your everyday moron bank robber, celebrity and star athlete who only care about “making it rain” and their next endorsement deal. In this digital age, when everyone has a cell phone camera, you never know who is going to make a copy of your film or steal it.
And OK, so you film yourself engaging in sexual activity with a dog, tape it and it is on your computer. Wouldn’t you remember not to allow the police check that computer? And Owen’s ex is also allegedly on this videotape, and they have a child together. It is no wonder that there are so many stupid people running around who don’t know right from wrong. Their parents can’t raise them or teach them because they are too busy drinking and filming themselves with Lassie.
So a lesson to stupid criminals out there: Stop filming yourselves engaging in illegal activity. Or don’t, because it gives me something to write about, and it puts money in my pocket. So go ahead, film yourself robbing a bank or performing sexual acts or beating someone up. Better yet, while you are taping such crimes, you should Twitter them so we know for sure that it is you.
Speaking of Twitter, yes I am on it. And yes, you should follow me. But people don’t have to update it every time they decide to go to the bathroom. This is just another example about why there is no privacy anymore in this world. Everywhere you go, there are cameras watching. And where they aren’t watching, people are posting that they are “loving American Idol tonight.”
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the Southwest News-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800, ext 241, at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com or at chucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also, don’t forget to catch him at 8 a.m. every Thursday with Ray Hanania for his entertainment report, his sports reports from noon to 1 p.m. every Thursday on the Linda P Show, and from 2 to 3 p.m. every Friday on the Out’N’About show with Ron and Joe — all on WJJG 1530 AM.)
Monday, March 2, 2009
And The Winners Were.....The Viewers
So being the new entertainment reporter for Radio Chicagoland, I thought I would comment on Hollywood’s biggest night: The Oscars!
Before I get into it, I should mention one thing: I didn’t watch the entire show. I went to the Blackhawks game that night, and since I don’t have TiVo, I didn’t tape it. But I have pretty much seen everything, thanks to the wonderful world of YouTube.
The opening number was funny. Actually, I didn’t know what to expect with Hugh Jackman hosting. Bringing in Ann Hathaway was OK; the whole number was entertaining, but the musical part later on was pretty stupid. I am not a big fan of musicals, and I don’t like Beyonce.
I also don’t like Ben Stiller, but his mocking of Joaquin Phoenix was amusing. I don’t get the whole Phoenix thing, and his appearance with David Lettermen: Was it fake, or is he really that screwed up? I will be honest: There are awards I don’t really care about, even if the industry insiders do, such as best sound editing, best original score, sound mixing and animated short film. This is the time of the show when I start to flip over to SportsCenter and see what they are showing. Thankfully, the president of the Academy did not give his big long boring speech; he just stood up and waved.
I did like how they handed out the Best Supporting Actress and Actor and Best Actor and Actress awards, with former winners coming out and giving a little speech. It added just a little bit of excitement to the show having former winners coming out and saying some nice things about the nominees, although some of them were a little more heartfelt than others.I did not see the big winner “Slumdog Millionaire,” but I do want to. I didn’t realize that Kate Winslet was nominated six times and had never won; I just assumed she had won for “Titanic.” So I was pleased she won. She is a good actress, and, surprisingly, has been in a few movies I have liked.
I hate Sean Penn. He has been in some good movies, but is a goof. There is a time and a place for him to talk all his political jargon, but the Academy Awards is not it. It has nothing to do with if I agree with him or not. I hate when any actor does this, he just happens to do it the most. Nice speech. His wife, actress Robin Wright Penn, was in tears, but in all his rambling he forgot or didn’t care to thank her.
Everyone and their brother knew Heath Ledger was going to win for best supporting actor. It was nice to see his family up there accepting the award. It was an unbelievable performance in a great movie. But if they were going to nominate Ledger and have him win (which he really deserved), why didn’t they nominate director Chris Nolan for writing the screenplay or for direction? The Academy has a thing against action and comic book movies.
I have not seen the movie Penelope Cruz won for, nor have I seen anything she has made, as far as I remember. So I don’t care one way or another that she won. But she is hot, and that’s all that matters.
It was one of the more entertaining Oscars I have seen in awhile. Thanks to YouTube, I saw everything that I missed, at least I think. Of course, it was still long and parts were very boring, but I was entertained.Oh and I don’t care about the dressed lists.
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the Southwest News-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800 ext. 241; at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com; or at chucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also, don’t forget to catch him with the sports report every Thursday on the Linda Padgurskis show from noon to 1 p.m. and “The Out-N-About Talk Show with Ron and Joe, on Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m., both on WJJG 1530 AM. Chuck may also be heard every Thursday on Radio Chicagoland with Ray Hanania with the Entertainment Report. He will guest host on Tuesday, March 3, from 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Before I get into it, I should mention one thing: I didn’t watch the entire show. I went to the Blackhawks game that night, and since I don’t have TiVo, I didn’t tape it. But I have pretty much seen everything, thanks to the wonderful world of YouTube.
The opening number was funny. Actually, I didn’t know what to expect with Hugh Jackman hosting. Bringing in Ann Hathaway was OK; the whole number was entertaining, but the musical part later on was pretty stupid. I am not a big fan of musicals, and I don’t like Beyonce.
I also don’t like Ben Stiller, but his mocking of Joaquin Phoenix was amusing. I don’t get the whole Phoenix thing, and his appearance with David Lettermen: Was it fake, or is he really that screwed up? I will be honest: There are awards I don’t really care about, even if the industry insiders do, such as best sound editing, best original score, sound mixing and animated short film. This is the time of the show when I start to flip over to SportsCenter and see what they are showing. Thankfully, the president of the Academy did not give his big long boring speech; he just stood up and waved.
I did like how they handed out the Best Supporting Actress and Actor and Best Actor and Actress awards, with former winners coming out and giving a little speech. It added just a little bit of excitement to the show having former winners coming out and saying some nice things about the nominees, although some of them were a little more heartfelt than others.I did not see the big winner “Slumdog Millionaire,” but I do want to. I didn’t realize that Kate Winslet was nominated six times and had never won; I just assumed she had won for “Titanic.” So I was pleased she won. She is a good actress, and, surprisingly, has been in a few movies I have liked.
I hate Sean Penn. He has been in some good movies, but is a goof. There is a time and a place for him to talk all his political jargon, but the Academy Awards is not it. It has nothing to do with if I agree with him or not. I hate when any actor does this, he just happens to do it the most. Nice speech. His wife, actress Robin Wright Penn, was in tears, but in all his rambling he forgot or didn’t care to thank her.
Everyone and their brother knew Heath Ledger was going to win for best supporting actor. It was nice to see his family up there accepting the award. It was an unbelievable performance in a great movie. But if they were going to nominate Ledger and have him win (which he really deserved), why didn’t they nominate director Chris Nolan for writing the screenplay or for direction? The Academy has a thing against action and comic book movies.
I have not seen the movie Penelope Cruz won for, nor have I seen anything she has made, as far as I remember. So I don’t care one way or another that she won. But she is hot, and that’s all that matters.
It was one of the more entertaining Oscars I have seen in awhile. Thanks to YouTube, I saw everything that I missed, at least I think. Of course, it was still long and parts were very boring, but I was entertained.Oh and I don’t care about the dressed lists.
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the Southwest News-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800 ext. 241; at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com; or at chucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also, don’t forget to catch him with the sports report every Thursday on the Linda Padgurskis show from noon to 1 p.m. and “The Out-N-About Talk Show with Ron and Joe, on Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m., both on WJJG 1530 AM. Chuck may also be heard every Thursday on Radio Chicagoland with Ray Hanania with the Entertainment Report. He will guest host on Tuesday, March 3, from 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Monday, February 23, 2009
http://movies.msn.com/oscars/winners-list/
Above is a list of the winners, I will update this soon with my thought on the event.
Above is a list of the winners, I will update this soon with my thought on the event.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Valentine's Day Ideas
SINGLES:
* The Broken Hearts Burlesque Ball February 13 : 9 p.m. Abbey Pub and Restaurant 3420 W. Grace St. Kimball 2 blocks north of Addison. Come see some of Chicago’s sexist Burlesque dancer.
*Lucky in Love Singles event for all ages, at Martini Ranch, 311 w Chicago, rsvp at Eurocircle.com $10 on Friday, Feb. 13
*Golden Arrow Party at Sam Maguires, 39 Orland Square Drive just outside the mall, this is a cupid.com event. Tickets are $25 and there are a few groups ages 33-43, 43-55 and 23-33 all begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12 log onto http://www.cupid.com/golden_arrow.aspx
*Thunderbird Singles – The world’s largest Free Valentine’s Day Singles Party will be hosted by Thunderbird Singles on Saturday, February 14th at the Woodfield Hyatt, 1800 East Golf Road in Schaumburg. Guests will be greeted by friendly hostesses at the door and entertained by their High Energy DJ with a hot dance mix on a huge dance floor. Special ice breaker games will help mingle and socialize. For more information, call 847-604-1199 or visit www.thunderbirdsingles.com
COUPLES
*Valentines Day Feb. 14, at Martini Park, 151 W Erie, beginning at 5 p.m., $48 per person, when you order a four course meal you get a free Moet champagne.
*TangoChicago Valentine’s Day Tango Party, on Feb. 14, at Tango Chicago, 408 S. Michigan. Dance the night away with your valentine. Includes an "absolute beginner's" class (7:30-9:30 p.m.) followed by an open dance session, plus appetizers, desserts and coffee and tea. Wear leather-soled shoes. $50 rspv at tangochicago.info
*Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Avenue, on Feb. 14, doors open at 7 orchestra plays 8 to 1130p.m. $30 reservations, $35 at door only 300 tickets will be sold, blast from the past with Sinatra type music, singles and couples welcome call 773-857-7891 or go to
www.robertbensonmusic.com
DINNER
*Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar, 26 w 151 Butterfield road in Wheaton, reservations suggested Specials include asparagus and crab-topped filet, heart-shaped lobster ravioli and chocolate mousse. The regular menu is also available. On Valentine's Day, diners have the chance to win accommodations at the Hilton Lisle/Naperville, plus dinner and wine. 630-653-5800
*Chez Colette, 5550 N. River Road in Rosemont, 847-678-4488. Maine lobster Parisienne, grilled beef tenderloin and chocolate souffle. Feb. 14, 5 to 1130 p.m.
*Hotel Baker – Hotel Baker, 100 W. Main St. St. Charles has a weekend jammed packed with ways to celebrate your love this year for Valentine’s Day. Friday night there will be dinner and dancing in the Rainbow Room to the incredible music of Ed Collins for only $60 pp. Includes 4-course gourmet meal. The overnight package includes chocolates and sparkling wine for $199. Saturday night will feature a gourmet 4-course meal in ROX City Grill including soft, romantic music of The Wandering Endorphin for only $60 per person. 100 W. Main St. St. Charles. 630-584-2100. www.hotelbaker.com
*The Lodge –The Lodge, 5750 Lakeside Drive, Lisle will be offering couples a 2 for 1 entrée special on any menu item and a $30 all inclusive wristband package this Valentine’s Day. Cover Gurl will be performing. 630-724-0450. www.thelodgeatfourlakes.com
OTHER
*White Castle 6059 S. LA Grange Rd., Countryside, IL. Enjoy dinner on a red cloth with a candle and waiter
*Puppy Love at the Copa, 1637 N. Clybourn 8 p.m. to 3 p.m., bring your dog
Don't wait until the last minute, but if you do, I will save you next week at 9:15 a.m. on RadioChicagoland, on WJJG 1530 AM.
___________________________________________________________________
MOVIES OPENNING THIS WEEK:
The Pink Panther 2
Push
He’s Just Not That Into You
Fanboys…finally
Coraline
For more information on any of the movies go to www.imdb.com
* The Broken Hearts Burlesque Ball February 13 : 9 p.m. Abbey Pub and Restaurant 3420 W. Grace St. Kimball 2 blocks north of Addison. Come see some of Chicago’s sexist Burlesque dancer.
*Lucky in Love Singles event for all ages, at Martini Ranch, 311 w Chicago, rsvp at Eurocircle.com $10 on Friday, Feb. 13
*Golden Arrow Party at Sam Maguires, 39 Orland Square Drive just outside the mall, this is a cupid.com event. Tickets are $25 and there are a few groups ages 33-43, 43-55 and 23-33 all begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12 log onto http://www.cupid.com/golden_arrow.aspx
*Thunderbird Singles – The world’s largest Free Valentine’s Day Singles Party will be hosted by Thunderbird Singles on Saturday, February 14th at the Woodfield Hyatt, 1800 East Golf Road in Schaumburg. Guests will be greeted by friendly hostesses at the door and entertained by their High Energy DJ with a hot dance mix on a huge dance floor. Special ice breaker games will help mingle and socialize. For more information, call 847-604-1199 or visit www.thunderbirdsingles.com
COUPLES
*Valentines Day Feb. 14, at Martini Park, 151 W Erie, beginning at 5 p.m., $48 per person, when you order a four course meal you get a free Moet champagne.
*TangoChicago Valentine’s Day Tango Party, on Feb. 14, at Tango Chicago, 408 S. Michigan. Dance the night away with your valentine. Includes an "absolute beginner's" class (7:30-9:30 p.m.) followed by an open dance session, plus appetizers, desserts and coffee and tea. Wear leather-soled shoes. $50 rspv at tangochicago.info
*Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Avenue, on Feb. 14, doors open at 7 orchestra plays 8 to 1130p.m. $30 reservations, $35 at door only 300 tickets will be sold, blast from the past with Sinatra type music, singles and couples welcome call 773-857-7891 or go to
www.robertbensonmusic.com
DINNER
*Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar, 26 w 151 Butterfield road in Wheaton, reservations suggested Specials include asparagus and crab-topped filet, heart-shaped lobster ravioli and chocolate mousse. The regular menu is also available. On Valentine's Day, diners have the chance to win accommodations at the Hilton Lisle/Naperville, plus dinner and wine. 630-653-5800
*Chez Colette, 5550 N. River Road in Rosemont, 847-678-4488. Maine lobster Parisienne, grilled beef tenderloin and chocolate souffle. Feb. 14, 5 to 1130 p.m.
*Hotel Baker – Hotel Baker, 100 W. Main St. St. Charles has a weekend jammed packed with ways to celebrate your love this year for Valentine’s Day. Friday night there will be dinner and dancing in the Rainbow Room to the incredible music of Ed Collins for only $60 pp. Includes 4-course gourmet meal. The overnight package includes chocolates and sparkling wine for $199. Saturday night will feature a gourmet 4-course meal in ROX City Grill including soft, romantic music of The Wandering Endorphin for only $60 per person. 100 W. Main St. St. Charles. 630-584-2100. www.hotelbaker.com
*The Lodge –The Lodge, 5750 Lakeside Drive, Lisle will be offering couples a 2 for 1 entrée special on any menu item and a $30 all inclusive wristband package this Valentine’s Day. Cover Gurl will be performing. 630-724-0450. www.thelodgeatfourlakes.com
OTHER
*White Castle 6059 S. LA Grange Rd., Countryside, IL. Enjoy dinner on a red cloth with a candle and waiter
*Puppy Love at the Copa, 1637 N. Clybourn 8 p.m. to 3 p.m., bring your dog
Don't wait until the last minute, but if you do, I will save you next week at 9:15 a.m. on RadioChicagoland, on WJJG 1530 AM.
___________________________________________________________________
MOVIES OPENNING THIS WEEK:
The Pink Panther 2
Push
He’s Just Not That Into You
Fanboys…finally
Coraline
For more information on any of the movies go to www.imdb.com
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
SuperBowl Hype Worth it in Great Game
Here are some quick thoughts on the Super Bowl.One why is Matt Millen on the pre-game show? Hasn’t all he has done in Detroit, shown that he might not be the best choice to listen to and hear what he has to say? Come on NBC I know you wanted to impress us with all 86 of your hosts for the pre-game show, but Matt Millen, really?
Why do we need Faith Hill jammed down our throat? Whois she banging behind the scenes to be everything NBC football. Yeah she’s hot, i dont like country, i don’tcare about her one way or another, but maybe can you get some other people. Variety is a good thing.
Why didn’t the Cardinals try the no huddle earlier? Is it me or were there way to many flags? What happened to let the players play?
John Madden is annoying, so are those dumb bimbo reporters asking stupid ass questions.
I wasn’t that impressed with the commercials, then again i was going to get food, going to the bathroom and getting more beer during the commercial breaks. So i didn’see that many of them.
The Doritos crystal ball commercial was funny.
The Maguyver one sucked.
GI Joe....ah i dont know...maybe...ah...
The Budweiser ones...ah.. didn’t really hear them.
The E-surrance.... couldnt understand what the black kid was singing...thus stupid... Honestly that is all i remember.
The Boss wasn’t that bad... better than expected.
Cardinals should have been more aggressive in thesecond half.
Great Fourth quarter.
Should have reviewed the last play.
I know they never give the MVP to a person from the losing team, but Warner had the best game one anyone on that field.
I was right, I said take the Cardinals + the 7points....damn i should have bet.
Why do we need Faith Hill jammed down our throat? Whois she banging behind the scenes to be everything NBC football. Yeah she’s hot, i dont like country, i don’tcare about her one way or another, but maybe can you get some other people. Variety is a good thing.
Why didn’t the Cardinals try the no huddle earlier? Is it me or were there way to many flags? What happened to let the players play?
John Madden is annoying, so are those dumb bimbo reporters asking stupid ass questions.
I wasn’t that impressed with the commercials, then again i was going to get food, going to the bathroom and getting more beer during the commercial breaks. So i didn’see that many of them.
The Doritos crystal ball commercial was funny.
The Maguyver one sucked.
GI Joe....ah i dont know...maybe...ah...
The Budweiser ones...ah.. didn’t really hear them.
The E-surrance.... couldnt understand what the black kid was singing...thus stupid... Honestly that is all i remember.
The Boss wasn’t that bad... better than expected.
Cardinals should have been more aggressive in thesecond half.
Great Fourth quarter.
Should have reviewed the last play.
I know they never give the MVP to a person from the losing team, but Warner had the best game one anyone on that field.
I was right, I said take the Cardinals + the 7points....damn i should have bet.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
It’s in the Cards For Arizona In Super Bowl XLIII
I could care less about the Chicago connections,because I wasn’t born when they played here. But I ampicking the Arizona Cardinals to win Super Bowl XLIII(43). For the record, I have guessed wrong with theCardinals for three straight weeks in the playoffs.But that is not the reason I am picking them to win.Most experts in the football world are picking theSteelers, and when that happens, go the other way. Howmany times have we seen in sports that it is not thebetter team that wins, but the team that gets hot atthe right moment? Right now, the Cardinals andquarterback Kurt Warner are the hottest team infootball.
Pittsburgh’s defense was the best during the regularseason and has done a good job in the playoffs. But the Cardinals did not have a running game during theregular season and now have a rejuvenated EdgerrinJames, who brings a dangerous running attack.To argue who the better quarterback is, Warner or BenRoethlisberger, is hard to do. But right now I wouldgive the edge to Warner, who is leading a team that noone cared about to the biggest game in the sport.
The Eagles blitzed Warner every way they could. Forawhile in the second half it was working for theEagles. But when Warner needed to come up with a bigdrive, right after the Eagles took the lead, he camethrough. Warner could be the first QB to win two SuperBowls with two teams.
The betting line, as of Monday, favors the Steelers bya touchdown. I think this will be a tough game. TheCardinals need to force turnovers on defense and comeup with some big plays on offense. The Steelers needto keep their offense on the field, eat up the clockand lean on their dominant defense.
I want to see a close game, with good defense and goodspecial teams.Bruce Springsteen as the halftime entertainment I am50/50 over. If he goes out there, rocks the place andplays his hits, great! But if he goes out there andplays a bunch of crappy songs off the new album, Iwill be disappointed.I say take the Cardinals plus the seven points, but Ilook for the Cardinals to win straight. Final Score:Cardinals 24, Steelers 21, which means the “under” (47points total) will also win. Please gambleresponsibly!
* * *
So the Academy Awards nominations are out, and I havenot seen any of the nominated films for best picture.And I’ve seen only one of the best actor and actressesnominations (happen to be the same movie). I did enjoythe performances of Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei in“The Wrestler.” I’m not sure if they are Oscar worthy,but they give good performances in a good movie. I wasa little upset that the best movie I saw in 2008 wasnot nominated for best picture or best director. ChrisNolan’s work on “The Dark Knight” should have at leastearned him a nomination.
* * *
So did anyone watch “The View” with Gov. RodBlagojevich?If this was the move of his public relations team, itmight be a good idea to win over the nationalaudience. Going on these shows and acting like he ishaving a good time makes sense if you want peoplearound America to feel sorry for you. I’m sure thereare people across the country who feel he might not begetting a fair Senate trial. He is trying to paint thelegislature as the bad guys.But for those of us in Illinois, who are sick of hiscockiness, stubbornness and the “stupid” poems hereads, it is just another example of “cuckoo”Blagojevich. Also, it is strange to me that the onecalling Blago “cuckoo” is also kind of “cuckoo.”
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the SouthwestNews-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800 ext241, at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com or atchucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also don’t forget tocatch him every Thursday on the Linda Padgurskis showfrom noon to 1 p.m. and “The Out-N-About Talk Show”with Ron and Joe, on Fridays from 2 to 3p.m., both onWJJG 1530 AM, with the sports report. Chuck may alsobe heard every Thursday on Radio Chicagoland with RayHanania giving the Entertainment Report.)
Pittsburgh’s defense was the best during the regularseason and has done a good job in the playoffs. But the Cardinals did not have a running game during theregular season and now have a rejuvenated EdgerrinJames, who brings a dangerous running attack.To argue who the better quarterback is, Warner or BenRoethlisberger, is hard to do. But right now I wouldgive the edge to Warner, who is leading a team that noone cared about to the biggest game in the sport.
The Eagles blitzed Warner every way they could. Forawhile in the second half it was working for theEagles. But when Warner needed to come up with a bigdrive, right after the Eagles took the lead, he camethrough. Warner could be the first QB to win two SuperBowls with two teams.
The betting line, as of Monday, favors the Steelers bya touchdown. I think this will be a tough game. TheCardinals need to force turnovers on defense and comeup with some big plays on offense. The Steelers needto keep their offense on the field, eat up the clockand lean on their dominant defense.
I want to see a close game, with good defense and goodspecial teams.Bruce Springsteen as the halftime entertainment I am50/50 over. If he goes out there, rocks the place andplays his hits, great! But if he goes out there andplays a bunch of crappy songs off the new album, Iwill be disappointed.I say take the Cardinals plus the seven points, but Ilook for the Cardinals to win straight. Final Score:Cardinals 24, Steelers 21, which means the “under” (47points total) will also win. Please gambleresponsibly!
* * *
So the Academy Awards nominations are out, and I havenot seen any of the nominated films for best picture.And I’ve seen only one of the best actor and actressesnominations (happen to be the same movie). I did enjoythe performances of Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei in“The Wrestler.” I’m not sure if they are Oscar worthy,but they give good performances in a good movie. I wasa little upset that the best movie I saw in 2008 wasnot nominated for best picture or best director. ChrisNolan’s work on “The Dark Knight” should have at leastearned him a nomination.
* * *
So did anyone watch “The View” with Gov. RodBlagojevich?If this was the move of his public relations team, itmight be a good idea to win over the nationalaudience. Going on these shows and acting like he ishaving a good time makes sense if you want peoplearound America to feel sorry for you. I’m sure thereare people across the country who feel he might not begetting a fair Senate trial. He is trying to paint thelegislature as the bad guys.But for those of us in Illinois, who are sick of hiscockiness, stubbornness and the “stupid” poems hereads, it is just another example of “cuckoo”Blagojevich. Also, it is strange to me that the onecalling Blago “cuckoo” is also kind of “cuckoo.”
(Chuck Salvatore is a reporter for the SouthwestNews-Herald. He may be reached at (773) 476-4800 ext241, at chucksalvatore@hotmail.com or atchucksalvatore.blogspot.com. Also don’t forget tocatch him every Thursday on the Linda Padgurskis showfrom noon to 1 p.m. and “The Out-N-About Talk Show”with Ron and Joe, on Fridays from 2 to 3p.m., both onWJJG 1530 AM, with the sports report. Chuck may alsobe heard every Thursday on Radio Chicagoland with RayHanania giving the Entertainment Report.)
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Torture is evil, Unless it's done by Jack Bauer
Jack Bauer is back with a bang.
So far four episodes into this season, I love it. I wasn’t sure how this season was going to be by the previews. “Twenty-Four” started out pretty good, as usual a little far fetched but good. (spoiler warning)
Jack Bauer is being questioned by Congress as this season starts out, for torturing people to get information. DUH!!!!! You can’t take that away from Jack, it is what he does best. Jack then is wanted by the FBI to help them with a former friend Tony Almeida, who they believe is a terrorist. Tony is alive!!!! What the hell is this Days of Our Lives, people die then come back, give me a break!!!!!
Anyways Tony isn’t a terrorist he is working with Chloe (glad to have her back) and Bill Buchanan (love this character-so monotonic facial expressions never change-so awesome) who are taking down terrorists and working under the radar because the new President’s people might be involved.
WHAT?!!!! These three people are their own army going against the country’s most powerful people and the world most dangerous terrorists. So they can do all of these illegal things and no one has found out about this yet.
I do love this show, and I can’t wait to find out what happens through out the season. First already the FBI has learned that Jack is never wrong, ever. If you work for the government, Jack will never be wrong and he will always choke one of your colleagues or you out cold. Also the new FBI girl (actress Annie Wersching) is a total babe, but I am not sure about her character yet. Right away after Jack starts working for the Feds they make fun of him and his methods and as soon as it was presented, Jack tortures someone.
It will be fun to see what old characters make their way into the plot of this season. I will enjoy the ride of the best show on television.
Also I am glad Nip/Tuck is back on the air. I love that show too. It’s one of those guilty pleasures. It is so silly, so out there, with such flawed and non-likable characters that I can’t turn away. This season has started out strange but I am again looking forward to seeing where it goes.
p.s. I love the bikini girl on American Idol…no I didn’t watch that show, I could easily go to any bar and watch dumb people doing karaoke drunk and get more entertainment than watching American Idol.
p.p.s. Can’t wait for the new 22 episode season of "Rescue Me" 4 to begin.
p.p.p.s. I hate award show, to me there is nothing more boring that to watch a bunch of pretentious actors pretend to like one another and pretend they are honored to win some stupid award. With that said, I hope Ledger wins for The Dark Knight.
p.p.p.p.s. I saw “The Wrestler” very real depiction of out of date indy wrestlers. I liked the movie, not as much as everyone else but it was decent, I did think Rourke was very good in the role.
So far four episodes into this season, I love it. I wasn’t sure how this season was going to be by the previews. “Twenty-Four” started out pretty good, as usual a little far fetched but good. (spoiler warning)
Jack Bauer is being questioned by Congress as this season starts out, for torturing people to get information. DUH!!!!! You can’t take that away from Jack, it is what he does best. Jack then is wanted by the FBI to help them with a former friend Tony Almeida, who they believe is a terrorist. Tony is alive!!!! What the hell is this Days of Our Lives, people die then come back, give me a break!!!!!
Anyways Tony isn’t a terrorist he is working with Chloe (glad to have her back) and Bill Buchanan (love this character-so monotonic facial expressions never change-so awesome) who are taking down terrorists and working under the radar because the new President’s people might be involved.
WHAT?!!!! These three people are their own army going against the country’s most powerful people and the world most dangerous terrorists. So they can do all of these illegal things and no one has found out about this yet.
I do love this show, and I can’t wait to find out what happens through out the season. First already the FBI has learned that Jack is never wrong, ever. If you work for the government, Jack will never be wrong and he will always choke one of your colleagues or you out cold. Also the new FBI girl (actress Annie Wersching) is a total babe, but I am not sure about her character yet. Right away after Jack starts working for the Feds they make fun of him and his methods and as soon as it was presented, Jack tortures someone.
It will be fun to see what old characters make their way into the plot of this season. I will enjoy the ride of the best show on television.
Also I am glad Nip/Tuck is back on the air. I love that show too. It’s one of those guilty pleasures. It is so silly, so out there, with such flawed and non-likable characters that I can’t turn away. This season has started out strange but I am again looking forward to seeing where it goes.
p.s. I love the bikini girl on American Idol…no I didn’t watch that show, I could easily go to any bar and watch dumb people doing karaoke drunk and get more entertainment than watching American Idol.
p.p.s. Can’t wait for the new 22 episode season of "Rescue Me" 4 to begin.
p.p.p.s. I hate award show, to me there is nothing more boring that to watch a bunch of pretentious actors pretend to like one another and pretend they are honored to win some stupid award. With that said, I hope Ledger wins for The Dark Knight.
p.p.p.p.s. I saw “The Wrestler” very real depiction of out of date indy wrestlers. I liked the movie, not as much as everyone else but it was decent, I did think Rourke was very good in the role.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
The Winter Classic
Even though it was a loss, the once-in-a-lifetimeevent known as the NHL Winter Classic, was an eventI will not forget.
The Red Wings came into the frozen friendly confineson Jan. 1, and beat the up and coming Blackhawks, 6-4,in a game that wasn’t as close as the score. This wasthe second annual Winter Classic, something the NHLhopes will become a long standing tradition. The event itself lived up to the hype. Walking toWrigley on a cold Thursday morning, after being outall of the night before celebrating the new year, wasexciting at the possibilities.
Before the game thosethat attended were given binoculars to look at whichplayer was not wearing the Reebok logo on the back. There were people “hosting” the event for those inattendance. Honestly I don’t remember anything thatone of them said because I wasn’t really listening tothem. Wrigley Field was transformed into all thingsHawks and Wings. Soon the players came on the ice towarm up then soon left the ice for more pregameceremonies. Once they hit the ice for warm-ups, everyone stood the entire time.
One of the ceremonies consisted of having former Cubs andBlackhawks players introduced on two stages right infront of home plate. Then the players came back out,walking on a ramp with fireworks and other explosives.
The Canadian National Anthem and the Star SpangledBanner were song, the Star Spangled Banner was song byJim Cornelison, who sings at most Hawks games at theUnited Center. I saw the replay of this on television,and it didn’t give it justice as to how loud it was at Wrigley while Jim Cornelison was singing. I wassitting close enough that you could tell Cornelisonreally enjoyed singing the song there and wasappreciative from the loud ovation he got before andafter singing the Anthem. The same Cubs and Hawks players who were announcedearlier to the crowd were again announced this timefor the television audience and the crowd on the ice.
The problem was I think each person got a louderovation the first time when it was not shown ontelevision. The first period started and it was mostly all Hawks,who played very tough, came out very aggressive andwere playing smart hockey. They went into the firstintermission with a 3-1 lead, and Chicago fans werepleased with the lead but wanted to see the level ofplay stay as intense through the next two periods.But as the second period went on you could see theswitch in the game. The Red Wings who had beat theHawks three times already at that point were playingmore physical, smarter, stronger and better than theHawks. By the time the third period came around theHawks found themselves in a deep whole. They got onegarbage goal at the end of the game, but it was toolittle to late. They had a nice lead but blew it tothe best team in the league. The experience was well worth it, it was fun to besitting in the stands watching an outdoor hockey game.
From what I saw it came across great on television.People from all over the country and Canada came toWrigley to watch the game.This is something the NHL needs to continue to do,make the Winter Classic a New Years Day tradition.Outdoor hockey in huge arenas that can hold about40,000 plus people. The only thing the NHL did wrong was the first threeWinter Classics like this year should have been withOriginal Six teams. From there go expand to otherteams, but start with the original six to bring moreexcitement to the game. At the game, the Hawks announced they would play aregular season game in Europe next year.
This was a great showcase for the city of Chicago toshow how much this franchise, which just two years agowas voted one of the worst in sports has been revivedto a popular team among the city that is being builtto be an elite team for years to come. The Hawks are back, and although they lost, they showed the world that Chicago is once again a goodsuccessful team.
The Red Wings came into the frozen friendly confineson Jan. 1, and beat the up and coming Blackhawks, 6-4,in a game that wasn’t as close as the score. This wasthe second annual Winter Classic, something the NHLhopes will become a long standing tradition. The event itself lived up to the hype. Walking toWrigley on a cold Thursday morning, after being outall of the night before celebrating the new year, wasexciting at the possibilities.
Before the game thosethat attended were given binoculars to look at whichplayer was not wearing the Reebok logo on the back. There were people “hosting” the event for those inattendance. Honestly I don’t remember anything thatone of them said because I wasn’t really listening tothem. Wrigley Field was transformed into all thingsHawks and Wings. Soon the players came on the ice towarm up then soon left the ice for more pregameceremonies. Once they hit the ice for warm-ups, everyone stood the entire time.
One of the ceremonies consisted of having former Cubs andBlackhawks players introduced on two stages right infront of home plate. Then the players came back out,walking on a ramp with fireworks and other explosives.
The Canadian National Anthem and the Star SpangledBanner were song, the Star Spangled Banner was song byJim Cornelison, who sings at most Hawks games at theUnited Center. I saw the replay of this on television,and it didn’t give it justice as to how loud it was at Wrigley while Jim Cornelison was singing. I wassitting close enough that you could tell Cornelisonreally enjoyed singing the song there and wasappreciative from the loud ovation he got before andafter singing the Anthem. The same Cubs and Hawks players who were announcedearlier to the crowd were again announced this timefor the television audience and the crowd on the ice.
The problem was I think each person got a louderovation the first time when it was not shown ontelevision. The first period started and it was mostly all Hawks,who played very tough, came out very aggressive andwere playing smart hockey. They went into the firstintermission with a 3-1 lead, and Chicago fans werepleased with the lead but wanted to see the level ofplay stay as intense through the next two periods.But as the second period went on you could see theswitch in the game. The Red Wings who had beat theHawks three times already at that point were playingmore physical, smarter, stronger and better than theHawks. By the time the third period came around theHawks found themselves in a deep whole. They got onegarbage goal at the end of the game, but it was toolittle to late. They had a nice lead but blew it tothe best team in the league. The experience was well worth it, it was fun to besitting in the stands watching an outdoor hockey game.
From what I saw it came across great on television.People from all over the country and Canada came toWrigley to watch the game.This is something the NHL needs to continue to do,make the Winter Classic a New Years Day tradition.Outdoor hockey in huge arenas that can hold about40,000 plus people. The only thing the NHL did wrong was the first threeWinter Classics like this year should have been withOriginal Six teams. From there go expand to otherteams, but start with the original six to bring moreexcitement to the game. At the game, the Hawks announced they would play aregular season game in Europe next year.
This was a great showcase for the city of Chicago toshow how much this franchise, which just two years agowas voted one of the worst in sports has been revivedto a popular team among the city that is being builtto be an elite team for years to come. The Hawks are back, and although they lost, they showed the world that Chicago is once again a goodsuccessful team.
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