General Info on Chicago – Chicago, Illinois, USA

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If the United States are one big melting pot, then Chicago is definitely one of the spiciest flavors of the stew.

With dozens of ethnic communities, artistic villages, and entertainment districts, the City of Big Shoulders can please even the most scrutinizing pleasure-seeker. Lake Michigan also adds to the excitement, and city life seems to flock to the shore at the first hint of spring—refusing to desert it and extracting every last moment of good weather until the inevitable arrival of winter.

Chicago is definitely the forerunner in many big-city categories. It’s architecture is second to none in the U.S., with influences from such big names as Wright, Louis, and Sullivan.

Its diverse array of quality foods is mind-boggling, having almost every type of ethnic dish from dolmades to pad thai—as well as the famous deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dog.

Entertainment also ranks high as the fierce music, theater, and art scenes vie for attention from the city’s millions.

And with extensive train, bus, and taxi availability, transportation to a favorite bar or opera show is never far away.

I was born and raised in the city and I go back as often as possible. Some of my friends from Naperville think that I’m out of the country because I’m in Chicago so much. In fact, my fiancee and I will be moving back into the city in May 2000.

As far as my interests go, I guess you could call me a Renaissance Man. I love drawing, painting, theater, photography, and music. I am currently the lead singer/guitarist for the Chicago-based band Shampoo Effect.

I love hiking, canoeing, and just plain old adventuring anywhere. Some of my craziest climbs have been Sugarloaf Mountain (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and French Canyon (Starved Rock State Park, Illinois). Both were done without any climbing gear and I think I must have been insane. But I’d gladly do them both again in a heartbeat.

I’ve traveled to Canada, Brazil, Singapore, and France, as well as all over the United States. But I must say that I am pretty damn lucky to live in such a wonderful city as Chicago.

As far as boots are concerned, I’ve only worn Lake of the Woods and they’re fine with me. I’m more of a gym shoes kinda guy though.

Chicago Links
Citysearch Chicago

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