Deanna Kimberly Burrell's Blog: The Red Cup Adventures, page 8

The Chicago Westside Music Festival

Check out these hot events for this weekend. My featured event is the Chicago Westside Music Festival on Saturday. Make sure to grab your chair and your red cup and hit the streets. #SummerTimeChi!

Friday, August 15th: 

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents A Midsummer Night's Dream: South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive) @ 630pm, FREE
Steppin Under the Stars: DuSable Museum (740 East 56th Place) @ 6-10pm, $5 Suggested Donation
Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour: Gallary Guichard (446 E. 47th Street) and various art galleries @6-10pm, FREE

Saturday, August 16th:

Chicago Westside Music Festival: Garfield Park (corner of Jackson and Central Park); musical acts include 112, Brownstone, Aniba Hotep & the Sol Collective, and Terisa Griffin @ 12Noon-8pm, FREE
Movies in the Park, "20 Feet From Stardom", "20 Feet From Stardom": DuSable Museum (740 East 56th Place) @ Dusk, FREE
World Basketball featuring Team USA vs. Team Brazil: United Center @ 8pm, $25

Sunday, August 17th:

Sunday Bottomless Mimosas/Bellinis Brunch: Fleetwood (2333 S. Michigan Ave.) @ 10am-4pm
Sunday Funday:The Bar 10 Doors (1259 W. Taylor) @ 2-9pm, No Cover
Summerdance Salsa: Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park (601 S. Michigan Ave.) @ 4-5pm for dance lessons / 5-7pm for live music and dancing, FREE

All Weekend:

Taylor Street Festa Italiana: Taylor Street at Ashland @12noon-11pm, $5 Suggested Donation
Chicago Air & Water Show: (rehearsal Friday, August 15) North Avenue Beach, Saturday & Sunday 10am-3pm, FREE
World Basketball Festival: 63rd Street Beach (Free Shuttle from 63rd & Stony Island), Friday and Saturday

Want more suggestions? Click here for the ultimate guide to Black Chicago's 2014 Summer Events.

THE CHICAGO WESTSIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Saturday, August 16th 
12Noon-8PM
FREE

On Saturday, the Westside will be the Best Side in Chicago thanks to the 3rd Annual Chicago Westside Music Festival (WSMF) which seeks to create a series of musical concerts that are FREE to the community and that establish the Westside as a destination for music and summer festival fun. The Chicago Westside Music Festival was created to fill the void of cultural programming and outlets on the Westside of Chicago and draw audiences from both local and citywide communities.

In the inaugural year, the WSMF formed a partnership with the Chicago Park District, Parkways Foundation received a grant from The Chicago Community Trust to support the development, planning, implementation and evaluation of the Chicago Westside Music Festival.This event gets bigger and better ever year.

Here's what you need to know:

-There will be a fabulous showcase of some of Chicago's best talent including DJ David Shields, La Obra, Aniba Hotep and the Sol Collective (a Red Cup Adventure favorite), Aryk Chowder, Charles Buddy Love, Em Jai, Norris EF, Tina Jenkins Crawley, and Terisa Griffin.

-Headline artists are Brownstone backed by Chicago's own house band Zzaje, and Double Platinum R&B Group 112. (Insert a medley of "Only You", "Cupid", and "Peaches & Cream." #TakeThat #BadBoys #iHeartThe90s

-Bring your chair. Pack a picnic basket or purchase food on-site. No grills or fire will be allowed in the general audience area. Designated area for tents only so get there early to get a spot.-There will be a MillerCoors beer garden for adult libations.

-Enter Garfield Park at Jackson Blvd. & Central Park Ave. Free street parking or take public transportation: Jackson #126, Madison #20, Green Line (Central Park stop)

FREE ADMISSION

This will be a full day of amazing Chicago talent, great R&B music, food and family fun. You don't want to miss the 3rd Annual Westside Music Festival. Get your Red Cups and meet me there!

Source:
http://chicagowestsidemusicfestival.com

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The 85th Annual Bud Billiken Parade

Check out these hot events for this weekend. There are some great activities for the entire family. My favorite is the 85th annual Bud Billiken Parade which is the oldest and largest African-American parade in the United States. Make sure to grab a lawn chair, refreshment, and some good company. Take your red cups and enjoy a #SummerTimeChi adventure!
Saturday, August 9th: 

 Bud Billiken Parade, 35-55th & Martin Luther King Drive, kicks off at 10am; FREE (scroll down for great facts about the parade)
Chicago SummerDance Chicago House Party featuring DJ Heather 6-730pm and DJ Terry Hunter 730-9pm, Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park; FREE
An Evening with Chaka Khan, Chicago Theatre 175 N. State Street

Saturday & Sunday, August 9-10th: 

Veggie Fest 2014, held on the grounds of the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center: 4S 175 Naperville-Wheaton Rd; FREE ADMISSION and FREE PARKING
20th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival, Gene Siskel Film Center 164 N. State Street; running until August 28th


Want more suggestions? Click here for the ultimate guide to Black Chicago's 2014 Summer Events.



Great Facts about the Bud Billiken Parade

-The Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic (also known as The Bud Billiken Day Parade) is an annual parade in Chicago, Illinois, and the oldest and largest African American parade in the United States.

-It is now the second largest annual parade in the United States.

-Since 1929, it has always been held on the second Saturday in August. 2014 is the the 85th year for the parade.

-The parade is held in the Bronzeville neighborhood on Chicago's south side starting near 39th Street and South Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. It then continues south to 55th Street at Washington Park. This route covers approximately 2 miles (3.2 km). This route takes the parade through the Grand Boulevard and Washington Park community areas.

-The parade begins at 10 A.M. and ends at 4 P.M. After the parade visitors are welcomed to stay in Washington Park for the picnic. The picnic has various festivities and vendor booths. The post-parade festivities often include a concert.

-The idea for the parade came from Robert S. Abbott, the founder of the Chicago Defender.

-Bud Billiken is a fictional character created in 1923 by Abbott, who had been pondering the possibility of adding a youth section to the newspaper. While dining at a Chinese restaurant he noticed a Billiken (a character in Chinese mythology who was the protector of children). The Bud Billiken character gained prominence in a comic strip featured in the Chicago Defender and eventually became as mascot for the paper. During the Great Depression, the Bud Billiken character served as a symbol of pride, happiness and hope for black residents.

-The purpose of the parade is the provide underprivileged children with the chance to be in the limelight and to celebrate the youth as they prepare to go back to school.

-The parade features celebrities, politicians, businessmen, civic organizations and youth. From the past, the parade has seen Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, James Brown, Bozo the Clown, Jack Brickhouse, Roy Rogers, Lena Horne, and former President Harry S. Truman. In recent years, the parade has enjoyed the company of President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, L.L. Cool J, Spike Lee, Michael Jordan, Frank Thomas, Donny Osmond, Queen Latifah, Tyler Perry, and more.
-At the 78th annual parade in 2007, then-U.S. Senator Barack Obama served as the Grand Marshal for the second year in a row.


-The parade will air live on WLS-TV Channel 7 from 10AM to 1230PM.


-Chicago Defender Charities was founded in 1945 as the charity arm of the Chicago Defender newspaper. Since 2003, the charity has raised $1.2 million for its scholarship program benefiting needy college students.



Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bud_Billiken_Parade_and_Picnic
http://www.budbillikenparade.org/bud-billiken-parade-history
http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago



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Chicago...Get On Up This Weekend

The author who brought you Single Girl Summer is now taking you on...











CHICAGO EVENTS FOR THIS WEEKEND
 
It looks like Summertime Chi is quickly coming to an end...Bud Billiken is right around the corner! But as they say, it ain't over until the fat lady sings...or rather the King of Soul screams. Make sure to get on out for the opening weekend of Get On Up starring Chadwick Boseman.
Check out these hot events for this weekend. Grab your red cups and get ready for an adventure. #SummerTimeChi! 
 

 

Thursday, July 31st: 

BMOA & V103 Block Party feat Kelly Price, Thursday, August, 1st @ The Wire - 6815 W. Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn, IL 

Friday, August 1st:



First Friday, Friday, August 1st @ The Bottom Lounge


 

Sunday, July 3rd:

Movie Screening of "Half of a Yellow Sun", Sunday August 3, DuSable Museum 740 East 56th Place

All Weekend:

Lollapalooza, Friday, August 1 - Sunday, August 3 @ Grant Park
Black Harvest Film Festival, August 1- August 28@ Gene Siskel Film Center
Messiah Equiano's "The Penis Monologues", Thursday July 31 - Sunday August 3 @ Velvet Lounge (67 E. Cermak Road)

 

Want more suggestions? Click here for the ultimate guide to Black Chicago's 2014 Summer Events.











RED CUP BITES: Patti LaBelle's Best-Ever BBQ Chicken With Bodacious BBQ Sauce
 
We know we did BBQ ribs last week, but what has more SOUL than BBQ and a little bit of Patti Labelle???



Ingredients

5 pounds chicken drumsticks and thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sauce:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 tablespoon hot red pepper sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke

 


Instructions:
 

For the sauce: Heat the oil in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. 

Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, hot pepper sauce, lemon juice and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring. Reduce the heat to very low and simmer, stirring often to avoid scorching, for 15 minutes. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the liquid smoke. Use immediately or cool completely, cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. 

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. 

For oven-baked chicken: Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in a large roasting pan. Brush the chicken with the oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. 

Skim the fat from the pan juices. Spread all of the sauce over the chicken, return the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, until the chicken is glazed and shows no sign of pink when pierced at the bone, about 15 minutes. 

Transfer the chicken to a large platter. Stir the sauce and juices that have accumulated in the pan and pour them over the chicken. Serve hot. 

For grilled chicken: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Bake the chicken for 45 minutes in the preheated oven. 

In the meantime, build a charcoal fire in an outdoor grill and let the coals burn down until covered with white ash and medium-hot (you should be able to hold your hand over the coals for about 3 seconds). If using a gas grill, preheat on high, then adjust the temperature to medium. Remove the chicken from the oven, transfer it to the grill and cook, basting often with the barbecue sauce, until glazed, about 15 minutes.

Source:  http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/451/Patti-LaBelles-Best-Ever-Barb107707.shtml














RED CUP COCKTAILS: 
THE JAMES BROWN
 
Named the James Brown because it makes you feel good.




Ingredients

40 oz malt
7 oz Southern Comfort
1 can orange juice concentrate

Preparation:

Combine ingredients in a large pitcher and stir thoroughly. Makes 6-8 servings

Source: http://www.drinksmixer.com/drinke17d749.html

"On the Run" All Summer Long

CHICAGO EVENTS FOR THIS WEEKEND
 
They're heeerrreeee... King Jay and Queen Bey are taking over the Chi tonight. Let's roll out the red carpet and matching red cups! But first, check out the "movie trailer" for Run starring our favorite power couple and cameos from some of the biggest names in Hollywood.
After the show, check out these hot events for this weekend. Grab your red cups and get ready for an adventure. #SummerTimeChi! 
 



Thursday, July 24: 
On the Run Tour w/ Beyonce and Jay-Z @ Soldier Field

On the Run Tour Official After Party @ The Shrine


Friday, July 25th:
C.U.T. Experience featuring the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan @ Christ Universal Temple 11901 S. Ashland Avenue, FREE
Happier Hour @ Ceres (141 W. Jackson)
Chicago Park District presents Night Out in the Parks: Drumline @ Altgeld Park (515 S. Washtenaw)
Chicago SummerDance Afro-Brazilian and Samba @ Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park


Saturday, July 26th: 
Chicago Park District presents Night Out in the Parks: Roll Bounce @ Kennicott Park (4434 S. Lake Park Ave.)
Chicago SummerDance Chicago House Party @ Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park
Wicker Park Fest @ Milwaukee Ave Between North Ave and Paulina St


Sunday, July 27th:
Sunday Funday - Every Sunday @ The Bar 10 Doors
House of Blues Gospel Brunch - Every Sunday @ House of Blues, Dearborn & Kinzie
Maxwell Street Market - Every Sunday @ 800 S. Desplaines
Wicker Park Fest @ Milwaukee Ave Between North Ave and Paulina St
New Edition The Venue at the Horseshoe Casino
Rocksteady! Roots, Reggae, Lovers Rock and Dancehall - Every Sunday @ Coup d'etat/The Shrine


All Weekend:
Chicago Farmers Markets (Various)
Motown the Musical - Closing Saturday August 9 @ Oriental Theater

  

Want more suggestions? Click here for the ultimate guide to Black Chicago's 2014 Summer Events.





 







RED CUP BITES: Knock Out BBQ Beef Ribs
 
Nothing says summer quite like ribs with a great sauce...cause you know...it's all about the sauce. Check out this delicious recipe from the cooking couple, Gina and Patrick Neeley. It's sure to have you licking your lips like LL Cool J. #MamaSaidKnockYouOut



Ingredients


2 slabs BBQ beef ribs

Rub:

2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 1/2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

Glaze:

1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup apple juice
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ancho chile powder
Pinch of cayenne
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper


Instructions:





For Grilled Slices:
Cut avocado in half, seed, peel, and slice.
Drizzle with fresh lime or lemon juice and brush lightly with olive oil.
Gently place slices on grill over hot coals for 2 minutes on each side.
Season with salt to taste.
For Grilled Half Shells:
Cut avocado in half and remove seed.
Drizzle with fresh lime or lemon juice and brush lightly with olive oil.
Gently place cut side down on grill over hot coals for 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt to taste.
Optional: fill with fresh salsa or your favorite fresh ingredients.

Source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/patrick-and-gina-neely/bbq-beef-ribs-recipe.html








 







RED CUP COCKTAILS: 
SUNNY'S HARD LEMONADE
 
What should be in your red cup this weekend? Hard Lemonade from one of our favorite chefs, Sunny Anderson! 

 
Ingredients

2 cups water
1 cup sugar
8 cups ice
4 ounces vanilla-infused vodka
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 lemon, sliced into rings
1 lime, sliced into rings

  Preparation:


In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to a simmer. Cook until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large pitcher, fill with ice. Stir in simple syrup, vodka, juice, lemon and lime slices. 


Source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/sunny-anderson/sunnys-hard-lemonade-recipe.html



Deanna Burrell is the General Sales Manager at WVON and the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.

 Join the "Red Cup Adventures" page on Facebook. 
If you enjoyed this blog, type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. The list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time. Thanks!

Black Chicago Weekend Events July 18-20, 2014

Summer in Chicago offers an array of festivals, concerts, events, parties, and outings in every neighborhood. I've compiled a list of great events for you to check out this weekend. Grab your red cups and get ready for an adventure in #SummerTimeChi!






Friday, July 18: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Iota Delta Lambda Chapter Annual Old School Party, Society Art Gallery 2140 W. Fulton Street
Friday, July 18: Steppin Under the Stars, DuSable Museum 740 East 56th Place
Saturday, July 19: Taste of WVON featuring Lalah Hathaway, Lorraine Dixon Park 8701 S. Dauphin Ave, FREE
Saturday, July 19: Movies in the Park, "42", DuSable Museum 740 East 56th Place, FREE
Saturday, July 19: The Silver Room Block Party, The Silver Room
Saturday, July 19: Chicago SummerDance Zydeco, Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, FREE
Saturday, July 19: The Hot Mix Dance Party, Field Museum
Sunday, July 20: Chicago SummerDance Dances from the African Diaspora, Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, FREE
Sunday, July 20: The Rhythm & Blues Brothers: The Stage Play, DuSable Museum

Want more suggestions? Click here for the ultimate guide to Black Chicago's 2014 Summer Events.

If you decide to say in and chill on your patio, I've also got a great food and cocktail recommendation.

RED CUP BITES: GRILLED AVOCADOS

I haven't tried it yet, but I saw a delicious recipe for grilled avocados last week and I can't stop dreaming about making this. It looks simple and screams SUMMER DELICIOUS. Warm avocado, fresh salsa, and some chips...YUM! I suggest using lots of lime.





Ingredients


2 ripe, Fresh California Avocados
2 Tbsp. fresh lime or lemon juice
1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil
Seasoned salt to taste
1/2 cup fresh salsa, optional for half shell version





Instructions:


For Grilled Slices:
Cut avocado in half, seed, peel, and slice.
Drizzle with fresh lime or lemon juice and brush lightly with olive oil.
Gently place slices on grill over hot coals for 2 minutes on each side.
Season with salt to taste.
For Grilled Half Shells:
Cut avocado in half and remove seed.
Drizzle with fresh lime or lemon juice and brush lightly with olive oil.
Gently place cut side down on grill over hot coals for 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt to taste.
Optional: fill with fresh salsa or your favorite fresh ingredients.

Source: http://www.avocadocentral.com/avocado-recipes/Haute-Grilled-Avocados




RED CUP COCKTAILS: WATERMELON MARGARITA
What should be in your red cup this weekend? Watermelon Margaritas!


Ingredients


2 teaspoons sugar
1 lime wedge
3 1/2 cups cubed seeded watermelon
1/2 cup tequila
2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon Triple Sec (orange-flavored liqueur)
Lime wedges or watermelon balls (optional)

Preparation:



1. Place 2 teaspoons sugar in a saucer. Rub the rims of 6 glasses with 1 lime wedge; spin rim of each glass in sugar to coat. Set prepared glasses aside.

2. Combine watermelon and next 4 ingredients (through Triple Sec) in a blender; process until smooth. Fill each prepared glass with 1/2 cup crushed ice. Add 1/2 cup margarita to each glass. Garnish with lime wedges or melon balls, if desired.

Source: http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/watermelon-margaritas-10000001995736/




Deanna Burrell is the General Sales Manager at WVON and the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.

 Join the "Single Girl Summer" page on Facebook. 
If you enjoyed this blog, type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. The list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time. Thanks!

Black Chicago 2014 Summer Events

The Summer Solstice is just around the corner and that's when Chicago comes alive. Summer in Chicago offers an array of festivals, concerts, events, parties, and outings in every neighborhood. So here's my list for hot happenings that showcase the diverse array of ethnicity, heritage, and culture of my city. Grab your red cups and get ready for amazing adventures in #SummerTimeChi!

This list will be updated throughout the summer so bookmark this page and check back often for updates.

June 2014

Motown the Musical, Now - Aug 9, Oriental Theater
Do Division, Division Street festival, May 30 - June 1, 2014
Frankie Knuckles Tribute House Party, June 3, Millennium Park
WVON's Speak Sistah Speak, June 5, DuSable Museum of African American History
Chicago Food Truck Fest, June 7, outside U.S. Cellular Field
Sib's Breakfast Club, June 7, Room 43
Ribfest Chicago, June 6-8, Lincoln/Irving Park/Damen
57th Street Art Fair, June 7-8, Hyde Park
Grant Park Music Festival, June 11 – August 16
Taste of Randolph Street, June 13-15
Chicago Blues Fest, June 13-15, Grant Park, Millennium Park
39th Annual Sickle Cell Walk/Jog, June 14th, 31st & Lake Shore Drive
6 Corners BBQ Fest, June 14-15, 4000 N. Milwaukee Ave. (at Irving Park Rd./Cicero Ave. to Belle Plaine)
Real Men Cook, June 15th, The Legacy Center - 119th & Loomis
John Legend, June 16th, Ravinia
State of Illinois Juneteenth Event, TBD
SUMMER SOLSTICE, JUNE 21, THE OFFICIAL START OF SUMMER
L.A.T.E. Ride, June 21, overnight ride starts at Buckingham Fountain (500 S Columbus Dr)
Gospel Run, June 21, Jackson Park
Hall & Oates, June 22, Ravinia
Ramsey Lewis, June 24, Ravinia
Summer Film Series, June 24 - Aug 29, DuSable Museum
Jazz in the Grazz, June 26 - Sept 11, Chicago State University
Gospel Music Festival, June 27-29, Ellis Park in Bronzeville
Randolph Street Market Festival, June 28, 29, 1350 W. Randolph and 1340 W. Washington

July 2014

Maxwell, July 2nd, Ravinia
Earth, Wind & Fire, July 3rd, Ravinia
International Festival of Life, July 3-6, Union Park
Chosen Few Picnic, July 3-6, in Jackson Park, 63rd and Hayes Drive
Fourth of July Fireworks, July 4, Navy Pier, 9:30 p.m.
Windy City RibFest, July 4-6, Uptown, Lawrence and Broadway
Arts & Crafts Festival, July 12th - 13th, DuSable Museum
Taste of Chicago, July 9-13, Grant Park
Taste of WVON, July 19th, 1000 E. 8th Street
On the Run Tour w/ Beyonce and Jay-Z, July 24th, Soldier Field
Wicker Park Fest, July 26-27, Milwaukee Avenue Between North Avenue and Paulina Street
Gallery Guichard Grand Opening, June 27, 436 E. 47th Street

August 2014 

Lollapalooza, August 1-3, Grant Park
Bud Billiken Parade, Aug 9, 35-55th & Martin Luther King Drive
Westside Music Festival, August 15th-17th, Garfield Park
Chicago Air & Water Show, August 16, 17 (rehearsal August 15) North Avenue Beach
Chicago New Orleans Fest (NEW) August 23 – 24, Division & Damen
Chicago Jazz Festival, August 28 – 31, Grant Park
African Festival of the Arts, August 29 – September 1

September 2014

79th Street Renaissance Festival, Sept 6, 79th (between Loomis & Racine)
ETA Benefit Gala, Sept 6, TBD
FALL EQUINOX, SEPTEMBER 22, THE OFFICIAL END OF SUMMER
Hyde Park Jazz Festival, September 27 - 28, Hyde Park, various locations
Randolph Street Market Festival, September 27, 28, 1350 block W. Randolph and 1340 W. Washington Street between Ada and Ogden

Throughout the Summer

Jazzin at the Shedd, Shedd Aquarium
Chicago Farmers Markets (Various)
Chicago Park District presents Night Out in the Parks (Various)
Chicago Summer Dance (Various)
MCA First Fridays, Every First Friday, Museum of Contemporary Art
House of Blues Gospel Brunch, Every Sunday, House of Blues, Dearborn & Kinzie
Maxwell Street Market, Every Sunday, 800 S. Desplaines

TBD 

Ebony Fashion Fair
Silver Room Block Party

Deanna Burrell is the General Sales Manager at WVON and the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.

 Join the "Single Girl Summer" page on Facebook. 
If you enjoyed this blog, type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. The list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time. Thanks!

Treating Cancer: Mind, Body & Spirit

Cinco Derby De Mayweather - The Trifecta

For the past two years, the first Saturday in May has been one of my favorite Red Cup Adventure days. I call it the trifecta (pun intended) because the Cinco De Mayo Saturday celebration, the Kentucky Derby, and Floyd Mayweather fight all converge on the same day. And it’s happening again this year…in fact, it’s happening right now! There are so many fun events for the Cinco Derby De Mayweather trifecta and a host of great Black Chicago happenings. Here's my Red Cup Adventure rundown for this weekend May 3-4th:

Saturday, May 3rd

Road to Essence Festival 11am-5pm
A FREE fun day of full musical performances, celebrity visits, inspiring conversations, cool giveaways and more! See full performances by Kindred the Family Soul, Syleena Johnson (Official), Full Force and more!
Walmart | 1300 Des Plaines Avenue | Forest Park IL

Kentucky Derby Day Brunch on 43rd 12n-5pm
Ladies Come Dressed In Your Fabulous Hats And Men wear SeerSucker and Bowties. Get ready for Mint Juleps and Wonderful Surprises!
Norman’s Bisto | 1001 E. 43rd Street | Chicago, IL | call for reservation 773.966.5821

Tavern on Rush Third Annual Kentucky Derby Soiree
A day-long celebration. Dress in your finest Derby attire. Best hat contest. Winner will be awarded a bottle of Dom Perignon! Mint Juleps, Crispy Churchill fried chicken chopped salad, “The Winner” Tavern hot dog, “Run for the Roses” Potato Chip basket, Kentucky Bourbon banana bread pudding.
Tavern on Rush | 1001 E. 43rd Street | Chicago, IL | call for reservation 773.966.5821

Maya Del Sol Cinco De Mayo | Opens at noon. Live music starts at 9pm
Doors open at noon with a special Mexican-themed menu and drink specials. Later in the day, the party continues with food stations featuring guest chefs, a drink package, and live music.
Maya Del Sol | 144 S. Oak Park Ave. | Oak Park, IL

The Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation | Hilton Chicago, 8pm
You don’t want to miss this inspirational evening where the mission of the Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation comes to life. Corporate and individual partners will Experience the Power of 3: Potential, Passion and Purpose. Helping Hand Award Honorees include Pastor Corey Brooks (New Beginnings Church Chicago), Clint Culpepper (Screen Gems), Steve Pemberton (Walgreens), and Cookie & Magic Johnson (Magic Johnson Foundation).

Mayweather vs. Maidana at the ICON Theater 8pm
If you can’t fly to Vegas, this is the next best thing. The ShowPlace ICON Theatre in the South Loop is showing the Mayweather vs. Maidana fight live on the big screen. Must be 21+. Seating is in the VIP Premium. Cost: $25 per person (food and drink not included).
Showplace Icon | 150 W. Roosevelt Road | Chicago, IL 60653

Sunday, May 4th
UChicagoEngages present Danny Glover 4pm
Acclaimed actor, director & activist Danny Glover will deliver the Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture's Annual Public Lecture. This event coincides with a series of Spring Quarter events at UChicago focused on the 50th Anniversary of Freedom Summer project, a massive campaign that took Northern college students to Mississippi to help register African American voters who were being denied the right to vote through local customs, laws, and violence. This event is free and open to the public.
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel | 5850 S. Woodlawn | Chicago, IL



 

Deanna Burrell is the General Sales Manager at WVON and the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.

 Join the "Single Girl Summer" page on Facebook. 
If you enjoyed this blog, type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. The list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time. Thanks!

Everyday is a Special Occasion

Last week, I literally had the BEST WEEK EVER! I was named one of the Chicago Defender 50 Women of Excellence, Radio Ink featured me as one of Radio’s Future African-American Leaders, I closed some big accounts at Midway Broadcasting, and I presented an incredible forum on Saturday with my AARP client…I was on fire! Yesterday, I met my AARP client at a spa to celebrate our professional success and job well done. I arrived first and handed a bottle of Veuve to the hostess for later. She asked if I was celebrating anything special. I paused and reflected. Though I could have answered that question by recapping my success from the week, Spirit led me in a different direction. I remembered an essay from my first book “Voted Most Creative: Perspectives on Live, Love, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” The essay is entitled SPECIAL OCCASION. I told the hostess that I was indeed celebrating because everyday is a special occasion.

My client and I had a wonderful time at the spa. Then went to a BBQ at another client’s house where we ate, drank, sang karaoke, and laughed until our stomachs hurt. Driving home I kept thinking how grateful I am because I’m so happy…like a room without a roof. I talked to my parents and then fell soundly and contentedly asleep. I didn’t hear my phone ring at 1132pm. I was finally stirred at 1213am. I answered the phone and was shocked by the sound of weeping.

I was informed by a college friend that there was a fire at the New Jersey home of my best friend from college, Tanji. Two bodies were found, but they hadn’t confirmed if it was her and her son. But her car was in the driveway so more than likely. I felt (and still feel as I type this) like the air has been pulled out the room. I asked what I could do. Though her sobs, my friend asked me to call another friend. I called my friend Tim and at this point I’ve lost my composure. Tim asks if I tried calling Tanji. I stopped. No, I didn’t call Tanji because I don’t have her phone number. We fell out a couple of years ago and hadn’t spoken since. I called her a few times to repair the relationship but she didn’t call me back so I deleted her contact information. And now, I won’t get another chance in this lifetime.

Tanji Dewberry and I met our first week at Northwestern and were best friends for 20 years. Even though we didn’t speak the last two years, I thought of her often and prayed for her and her family. I pray she and Evan rest in peace. I spent the night calling my Northwestern friends, I told them all that we can’t keep going so long without seeing each other. Tanji, Angie, and I were the three Musketeers. Angie lives in LaGrange and we have reschedule getting together too many times. What is the point of working so hard if I don’t spend quality time with my family and friends? I vow to do better.

Tanji Doodleberry and Evan the Bumblebee, I love you both and you will forever live in my heart.

 

SPECIAL OCCASION

I purchased an expensive bottle of wine.

I decided to save it for a special occasion –

A promotion, a big birthday, a fabulous celebration.

One day, I looked at the bottle longingly.

The elixir beckoned me to partake.

I refused, noting that the day was not a special occasion.

Months passed, and the bottle summoned me again.

The mere thought of drinking the wine was intoxicating,

but again, I resolutely shunned the offer.

More months passed, and then I noticed something.

The cork had cracked.

Debris floated in the wine, the delicate grapes had spoiled.

My exquisite wine was wasted while I waited.

My special occasion had never come…Or had it?

I resolved there was a lesson to be learned.

To appreciate the future, I must appreciate the NOW!

The future is not promised to anyone.

The only sure thing is death, but its date of fulfillment is uncertain.

For every person who took their last breathe yesterday,

today would have been special.

Every new day and every new breath taken is a special occasion;

Celebrate these moments by enjoying all the beauty and joy that you can.

Drink that special bottle of wine.

Wear that fancy dress.  Light that decorative candle.

Use that good china.  Tell that person you love them.

Celebrate now.

Celebrate the right now.

Live each day as a special occasion.

Hot Happenings in Black Chicago on Saturday, April 5th

People always ask me "what's going on this weekend?" because they know I know. I'm the queen of the Red Cup Adventure. Here's my rundown of the hottest events in Black Chicago this Saturday, April 5th:

-Covenant United Church of Christ gets TRASHED. 1-3pm
Take a step towards saving our planet by attending a screening of the documentary TRASHED.
“This is the story of garbage…American style.”
“TRASHED” takes us headfirst into the world of garbage. The documentary aims to show the world what happens to solid waste after it leaves our hands and homes.
“TRASHED” encourages viewers to rethink the way that we consume products, reconsider the amount of waste we produce, and refocus on the pervasive environmental issue of overconsumption.

Following the 1 hour and 15 minutes screening, there will be a group discussion. Light refreshments will be served.
Covenant United Church of Christ, North Sanctuary | 1130 E. 154th Street | South Holland, IL 60473 | 708-333-5955



-Vision Art Gallery opening reception, 3–5pm
Celebrate the next exciting exhibition, "Art of Women and Mothers". View works from emerging and established artists whose art embodies the vision and mission of Christ Universal Temple, which is the exposition of positive and uplifting expressions of beauty seeking to stir the spirit and inspire the soul of all that may pass through this gallery. All are welcome to attend the free reception and have an opportunity to meet the exhibiting artists.
The exhibit will run Saturday April 5th thru May 25th.
Christ Universal Temple | 11901 S. Ashland Ave. | Chicago, IL 60643 | 773-568-2282



-K.K. Tyler Entertainment Presents "Triumphant Love - The Series" 7-10pm
From the creative mind of Kim Tyler, "Love Crazy" is the first in a three-part, revolutionary dramatic dance series. A made-for-TV drama, live and on stage! It’s story of the relationship highs-and-lows, temptations, frustrations, deception, and dysfunction set to your favorite relationship songs. Featured songs include works by Jill Scott, John Legend, Lauren Hill, Usher, R. Kelley, Lenny Williams, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce and more.

I went to the Friday night/media night preview and I loved it. The night opened with a panel discussion on relationships. There were four married men on the panel who gave some great advice. If you love the TV show “So You Think You Can Dance” and you love R&B & hip-hop, then you’ll love this show. Fantastic choreography and amazing dancing set to some of my favorite songs. There’s a great “Bob Fosse” piece and a Paso Doble. Click here for tickets.
Harold Washington Cultural Center | 4701 S. King Drive | Chicago, IL 60653



-A Night of 100 Stars Gala 6-1130pm
The DuSable Museum of African American History proudly presents this “star-filled” night of signature cocktails and hor d’oeuvres, lavish buffet supper prepared by a “constellation of caterers,” world-class entertainment, and the “2014 Night of 100 Stars Awards”. Tickets to this black-tie celebration are a hot commodity.

Inaugurated in 1992, this remarkable event draws nearly 700 business, education, civic, cultural and community-minded individuals from across the Chicagoland area. Guests are afforded a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse audience, while demonstrating their commitment to art and culture. Tickets are $350 each and proceeds benefit the museum’s educational programs and exhibitions.  Call for tickets. (773) 947-0600
South Shore Cultural Center | 7059 South Shore Drive | Chicago, IL | 60649



 

Deanna Burrell is the General Sales Manager at WVON and the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.

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