Chicago Commuter Spring 2012

NEW ATTRACTIONS, CHICAGO A PREMIER INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION IN 2012 - Page 5Commuter News page 2 || Family and School Guide page 6

Dude Ranch Vacations Page 7 || Real Estate page 10 || Spring Travel page 16

SPRING 2012

ChiCago Commuter page 2

COMMUTER NEWS

A Central Newspaper publication

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ADvERTISING MANAGERS

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Chicago Commuter

Mayor Emanuel Calls For Large-Scale Bike-Sharing Program

ChiCagO (CBS) — Mayor rahm emanuel wants the city to hire an Oregon-based company to run the city’s first large-scale bike shar-ing program. The city wants to offer people an affordable option for extra transportation, for instance, during the last leg of their trips downtown by bike.

as WBBM Newsradio political editor Craig Dellimore reports, the city already has a limited, privately-run bike-sharing program, but the mayor wants to team with Oregon-based alta Bicycle Share inc. to launch a massive effort in Chicago.

The mayor is seeking to have 3,000 available at 300 bike sharing stations in the city. for an annual fee of $60 to $85, people could have unlimited rides of up to 30 minutes at a time, or pay a small hourly rate beyond that. emanuel also wants a component to train young people to fix bikes. “What i’m also excited about because, a, i had something to do with it and i made the suggestion; but it’s also going to be different than others. We’re actually going to have an apprentice program for kids to learn how to fix bikes.

“Kids in disadvantaged communities will get the chance of learning a trade and a skill that will be, actually, make them employable. i’ve studied what London did, i’ve studied what D.C. has done. No other city, at least of those two, have what we’re doing,” emanuel said.The mayor would like the program to begin by this summer.

alta was selected unanimously over two other candidates, by a committee composed of representatives of the Chicago Transit au-thority, the Chicago Department of procurement Services, and the Chicago Department of Transportation.

The solar-powered bicycle docking stations would be placed about a quarter mile apart in congested areas of the city. The stations will be modular and mobile, and thus can be expanded or moved if necessary, the Mayor’s office said.

The program will be funded initially by federal grants intended for programs to reduce traffic congestion and improve the quality of the air.


ChiCagO, ill., feb. 20 - for the seventh straight year, consumer voters proclaimed their favorites in five categories in the Chicago auto Show's "Best of Show" balloting.

in voting conducted over the 10-day public run of the nation's biggest auto show, winners in the con-test's five categories were: vehicle i'd most like to have in my driveway: ford Shelby gT500"Best of Show voting has become a benchmark mea-sure, and winning in any category is quite meaning-ful for our manufacturers and exhibitors," said show chairman Steve foley, Jr. "in a year where attendance increased yet again and we boasted four indoor test

tracks and five outdoor test drives, consumers had a better chance than ever to weigh the competitors and let their voice be heard."

each of the first four winners beat out seven other vehicles. The eight finalists in Best all-New production vehicle, Best Concept ve-hicle, Best green vehicle and Best exhibit were selected by a jury of automotive experts. in the fifth category, "vehicle i'd most like to have in my driveway," voters could choose from any of the nearly 1000 vehicles on the show floor.

according to the results, voters considered the ford Shelby gT500 convertible, a 2012 Chicago auto Show world introduction, the Best all-New production vehicle. interest-ingly, ford also garnered runner up status with the all-new fusion. posting a strong third-place finish was the locally-built Dodge Dart.for the third year in row, the extended-range-electric Chevrolet volt was selected as Best green vehicle. No doubt the volt result was bolstered by outdoor test drive and spacious indoor volt-themed display area. placing sec-ond was the all-electric ford focus.

Best Concept honors went to the stunning

Lexus Lf-LC. The striking 2+2 hybrid sport coupe concept captivated show goers and posted a clear victory. The equally stunning Cadillac Ciel placed second.

returning to the top spot for a second year in a row as Best exhib-it was the Jeep brand. Jeep upped the ante this year with its test track experience that featured an 18-foot drop, rock-climbing wall and mini-Jeep course for kids. posting a close second was the reju-venated ford display that featured the Mustang Dynomometer and a rocking-and-rolling ford focus ST simulator.

every year the tightest race of all is the pick for "vehicle i'd most like to have in my driveway." This year was no different as the Shelby gT500 and Jeep grand Cherokee battled neck and neck to the last day. ford fans mashed the gas on the final day to put the Shelby gT500 on top.

in all, nearly 8000 consumers voted for best of show, which was spon-sored by the Chicago Tribune and Cars.com. each consumer that voted was entered for a chance to win one of five apple ipad2s. The awards for Best of Show will be presented to the winning manufac-turers at the annual Midwest automotive Media association Spring rally.

Consumers piCk their favorite vehiCles and exhibit

At The2012 ChiCago auto Show

Chevrolet Volt


Every weekend from June through August, discover Chicago’s new microbreweries, historic boulevards, modern art, landmark hotels and more on guided bus tours. Journey downtown and beyond with Chicago Neighborhood Tours, easy and affordable excursions that cover all corners of the city.

From new microbreweries to historic boulevards, modern art to landmark hotels, Chicago Neighborhood Tours has expanded to include even more diverse offerings. This summer, choose from 25 different tours every weekend from June through August, and let an expert local guide the way.

Visit chicagoneighborhoodtours.com or call 312.742.1190 to book any of the Chicago Neighborhood Tours or to reserve a private, customized group tour for 30 or more.

CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD TOURS – HIGHLIGHTS

BeverlyVisit Chicago’s historic Irish neighborhood. Marvel at architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright; take a behind-the-scenes look at a 19th century mansion that is now a private home; and see the phenomenal Vanderpoel Collection of American Art. • Visit the Ingersoll-Blackwelder House, which is normally not open to the public• View art by Mary Cassatt, Maxfield Parrish and other American masters at Ridge Park Fieldhouse• See Prairie style landmark buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright and Walter Burley Griffin

Elegant Gold Coast – NEW TOURExperience the glitz and glamour of the rich and famous in the Gold Coast – the historic stomping grounds of Chicago’s 19th-century elite. See the magnificent architecture of the monumental homes and opulent hotels where well-heeled Chicagoans lived and played.

• Tour the Charnley-Persky House, jointly built by Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright• Get a private, insider’s tour of the landmark Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel

Historic Parks & Boulevards – NEW TOURExperience the “City in a Garden” – Chicago’s motto. Chicago city planner Daniel Burnham envisioned acres of beautiful green spaces and wide, majestic tree-lined boulevards in his “City Beautiful” movement.

• Visit masterpieces of landscape architecture by Jens Jensen and other legendary designers

• See awe-inspiring field houses, World’s Fair relics and other historic landmarks• Each tour features different parks, so that no two tours are identical

Pullman Historic DistrictA visit to Pullman is like looking at a snapshot in time. This perfectly preserved neighborhood was a model community designed and engineered for employees of George Pullman’s railcar factory. Get a glimpse of this landmark community’s fascinating history.

• Learn all about this innovative experimental 19th-century town at the Pullman Visitor Center• See artifacts and photos from Pullman’s heyday at neighborhood landmarks

Taste of Edgewater & Uptown – NEW TOURSoutheast Asian, Middle Eastern, Swedish, West African – these are just some of the many cultures represented by Edgewater and Uptown’s stellar dining scene. Expand your culinary horizons on this globe-trotting food tour through these two exciting North Side neighborhoods.

• Savor authentic cuisines at 2-3 ethnic eateries in Edgewater & Uptown• Learn about the history of these culturally diverse neighborhoods• See architectural gems and other landmark buildings in the area

Taste of Albany Park – NEW TOURA taste of Albany Park is a taste of the world. Visit one of our nation’s most diverse zip codes, discover the rich cultures of the immigrant communities that call Albany Park home, and enjoy authentic ethnic cuisines at several neighborhood eateries.

• Experience authentic cuisine at 2-3 neighborhood restaurants• Glimpse the area’s Swedish heritage at North Park University• Learn about Southeast Asian culture at the Cambodian American Heritage Museum

Chicago Neighborhood Tours is presented by the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture. All tours are conducted with a guide by motor coach and by foot, and depart from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street. Check-in at 9:30 a.m. (10:30 a.m. for Hops & Barley: Pubs & Microbreweries only) in the main seating area behind the Randolph Street lobby. Tours range from $30-$55. Group rates are available. Early reservations are highly recommended.


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CHICAGO (January 4, 2012) - New attractions, museums, hotels, tours, and award-winning theater continue to make Chicago one of the world’s top destinations in 2012. Under the leadership of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the city will enjoy unprecedented global attention this spring when it hosts several major events: the G-8 and NATO summits and the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates. From a new international art expo and the only museum of its kind in the U.S. showcasing Greek culture and history to Second City’s new comedy club and the world’s biggest golf tournament, here is just a sampling of what’s new in Chicago in 2012. For more information, visit www.ExploreChicago.org.

HIGHLIGHTS of EVENTS COMING OUR WAY:

Second City Opens New UP Comedy ClubUP Comedy Club is Chicago's premier Stand-Up and Comedy Cabaret Theater offering an eclectic line-up of stand-up, improv and family programming. It also features a full service restaurant and bar with a Chicago-style menu available exclusively to UP that includes Lou Malnati's Deep Dish Pizza, Vienna Beef hot dogs and Eli's Cheesecake. The Second City’s History of Chicago, one of the Club’s signature shows, is a comedic valentine to Chicago drawing on the insight of native Chicagoans, history experts from the Chicago History Museum, and the audience. Open run.

Taste of Chicago: New Dates for Chicago’s 4-Star Feast-ival of Food and Fun

July 11 – 15A newly imagined Taste of Chicago moves later in the calendar this summer while remaining in its longtime home in Grant Park on Chicago’s lakefront. This free admission festival will emphasize Chicago’s status as a “foodie” destination and feature classic Chicago favorites as well as offerings from Chicago’s new and emerging culinary scene, entertainment such as cooking demonstrations from noted chefs, and local and national musical acts.

EXPO CHICAGO: New International Art Fair at Navy PierSeptember 20 – 23The inaugural EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary/Modern Art and Design, brings art dealers, collectors and curators from across the country and the world for a four-day event featuring 100 leading international galleries and a curated blend of contemporary/modern art and design. Studio Gang Architects, led by Chicago architect Jeanne Gang, will design the show’s interior at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall.

Ryder Cup: The World’s Biggest Golf TournamentSeptember 25 – 30Medinah Country Club, the site of many of the most memorable moments spanning 60 years of major championship golf, will host the 39th Ryder Cup. Located just outside Chicago, the Medinah Country Club is nearing completion of a $1.5 million greens renovation project on Course No. 3, ranked by Golf Digest among "America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses."

NEW ATTRACTIONS, MUSEUMS, HOTELS, INNOVATIVE THEATER

AND MAJOR GLOBAL EVENTS MAKE CHICAGO A PREMIER INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION IN 2012


for more family acitivites, summer camps, and schools

visit our website www.chicagocommuter.com


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CHICAGO – The elegance and passion of Spain’s dance, music and culture is showcased in the 36th American Spanish Dance & Music Festival, Thursday, June 14 through Sunday, June 24 Each year this popular Festival attracts thousands of cultural fans from around the world to experience “Spain in America” with the Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater’s full company and guest artists from Spain. The Chicago Sun-Times hails this 10-day celebration of Spanish culture as “a date worth keeping every summer.”

The Festival begins with the newly named Duende Flamenco Music & Dance Concert at Northeastern Illinois University Auditorium, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr, Thursday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m. Joining Ensemble Español will be acclaimed guest artists from Spain including Flamenco A3 with David Coria, principal dancer of the Rafaela Carrasco Flamenco Dance Company, Flavio Rodrigues, Flamenco guitarist and Pedro Obregon, Flamenco singer. Then, Northeastern Illinois University Dance Studios, 5500 N. St. Louis Ave. is home to seven days of Spanish master dance classes and workshops in the classical, folkloric and Flamenco styles taught by stellar zuest artists from Spain, June 15-21. There will also be a special three-day seminar on the history of Spanish dance by Ana Gonzalez and Juan Mata, founding members and former first dancers of the National Ballet of Spain. This seminar is sponsored in part by the Pilar Lopez & Argentinita Foundation of Madrid. More information about the concert or classes is available at EnsembleEspanol.org/festival.

The Festival culminates with three crowd-pleasing “Flamenco Passion” live music and dance performances featuring world premieres (titles will be announced at a later date) at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Friday, June 22 and Saturday June 23 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, June 24 at 3 p.m. Joining the dancers of Ensemble Español will be guest dancers and choreographers Carmela

Greco, daughter of the legendary José Greco, Paloma Gomez, former principal with the National Ballet of Spain and Founder and Artistic Director of De Lunares Danza, Jose Barrios, principal dancer of the Maria Pages Company and David Coria, acclaimed classical and folkloric dancer and former principal of the National Ballet of Spain. The impressive roster of guest singers and musicians will include Flamenco singer Manuel Palacin (Madrid), Flamenco singer and guitarist Paco Fonta (Miami), Venezuelanborn percussionist Javier Saume Mazzei, Flamenco guitarist Scott Mateo Davis and pianist Juan Antonio Mata (Madrid). Tickets are $26-$46. Free parking is available.For tickets, call 847-673-6300 or visit northshorecenter.org.Ensemble

Español Center for Spanish Dance & Music

Under the artistic direction of founder Dame Libby Komaiko and associate artistic director, Irma Suárez Ruiz,Ensemble Español is internationally recognized as the premier center for Spanish dance, music and culture in America. Its 40 sensational dancers, singers, instrumentalists with international guest artists promotes Spanish dance culture in all its forms – from Flamenco to traditional folkloric to classical renaissance to the XXI century. In 1982, Dame Libby became the first American artist in history to be decorated with Spain's highest honor "Lazo de Dama" (Ribbon of the Dame) de la Orden de Isabel La Católica by his Majesty Don Juan Carlos I, King of Spain for her artistic, cultural and educational work throughout the U.S. Ensemble Español has been in residence at Northeastern Illinois University since 1976.For more information visit EnsembleEspanol.org.

PRESENTS THREE CROWD-PLEASING “FLAMENCO PASSION” GALA PERFORMANCES WITH WORLD PREMIERES AT THE NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE

Thrilling Dance and Music Performances Cap 36th International American Spanish Dance & Music Festival Featuring Concerts, Workshops and More June 14 – June 24


Explore the life and times of a feared and ruthless warrior who changed the map of the world. Genghis Khan showcases the largest collection of 13th century Mongolian artifacts ever assembled in a single showing and takes visitors on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Featured are more than 200 stunning items including gold jewelry, weaponry, silk robes, and religious relics that capture the essence of Genghis Khan’s empire, his military prowess, cultural influence and lasting legacy. An exhibition highlight is the recently uncovered mummy and tomb trea-sures of a Mongolian noble woman dubbed “The Princess Giant” be-cause of her unusual height.

An unrivaled conqueror who changed the course of world culture is the subject of new exhibition at The Field Museum. Genghis Khan (Feb. 24 through Sept. 3, 2012) showcases the largest single collection of 13th century Mongolian artifacts ever assembled, and takes visitors on an unforgettable journey into Khan’s legendary empire. The exhibition features more than 200 stunning objects including gold jewelry, weap-onry, silk robes, religious relics, and the newly-discovered mummy and tomb treasures of a Mongolian noblewoman–that capture the essence of Genghis Khan’s empire, his military prowess, cultural influence, and lasting legacy.

Through compelling artifacts, engaging videos, and immersive installa-tions, the exhibition tells the story of Genghis Khan’s life–an epic tale filled with brutality, cunning, and intrigue. Born in 1162, and called Te-müjin, he endured early hardships including his father’s untimely death, his own imprisonment and torture at the hands of a warring tribe, the kidnapping of his young wife, and a deadly rivalry with a sworn blood brother. In 1206, he successfully united the many Mongol clans and earned the title of Genghis Khan, meaning “Oceanic Ruler.” He estab-lished a code of law and a written language that brought order to the Mongolian steppes, and prepared the tribes he united to wage war with civilizations beyond Mongolian borders.

Genghis Khan and his descendants merged smaller countries into larger ones, and developed international borders for countries that still stand today, including China, Korea, and India. In just 25 years, Khan’s army conquered more lands and people than the Romans during their entire 400-year rule. At one point, Khan’s Mongol empire spanned more than 11 million square miles across Eastern Europe and Asia.

Genghis Khan’s place in history is fraught with paradox. His warriors reduced cities to ash, eliminated entire populations, and incited fear

throughout medieval Europe and Asia. Yet, he was an innovative leader who brought stability and unity to a vast and varied empire, encour-aged education and a meritocracy, and opened trade between Europe and Asia.

Visitors to the exhibition can explore how nomads lived on the grass-lands of 13th century Central Asia and learn about Genghis Khan’s early influences. They can view a life-size ger (traditional Mongolian dwell-ing), learn about the role of a shaman, and view elaborate robes and materials used by spiritual leaders.

The rapid expansion of the Mongol Empire was due to the military ge-nius and charisma of its leader. An animated floor map illustrates the vast reach of the empire, which at its peak, stretched from the Pacific Ocean to the gates of Vienna. Murals and video projections place visitors in battlefields to experience the sight and sound of warriors on gallop-ing horses. Visitors will find magnificent weapons, equestrian objects, leather armor and chain mail, and other battle gear including a full-scale replica of a traction trebuchet (used for throwing large stones) and a gi-ant siege crossbow.

Genghis Khan's empire changed the world. The great conqueror is cred-ited with creating a passport and postal system, establishing diplomatic immunity, and wilderness preservation parks.

He died in 1227 but is still revered as the founding spirit of the Mon-golian nation. Genghis Khan’s burial place is still one of the greatest archeological mysteries of our time. One imaginative account states that 800 horsemen trampled repeatedly over the burial site to obscure its location. Other soldiers then killed the horsemen so they could not dis-close the grave site.

Genghis Khan’s third son and successor, Ögödei, established the city of Karakorum, on the Mongolian steppes, as the empire’s cosmopolitan capital. Visitors get a glimpse of life in this city through a recreated set-ting and collection of new archaeological discoveries including jewelry, ceramics, coins, seals, instruments, and textiles.

In the final section of the exhibition, visitors can trace the events that led to the fall of the Mongol Empire and learn about Kublai Khan, the most famous of Genghis Khan’s grandsons, whose own life as a warrior and statesman laid the foundation of modern China.

GENGHIS KHAN INVADES CHICAGOSpecial Exhibition Opens at The Field Museum

Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368) PassportOne of Genghis Khan's greatest

inventions was the passport. Mongolian Armored Horse and WarriorsIn 25 years, the army of Genghis Khan conquered four times more land and people than the Romans during

their entire 400-year empire.

Exhibition Dates: February 24 through September 3, 2012Genghis Khan is produced by Imagine Exhibitions Inc. Lead Sponsor: Allstate Insurance Company

"...the exhibition tells the story of Genghis Khan’s life–an epic tale filled with brutality, cunning, and intrigue."


www.ChicagoCommuter.com


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CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE IN OUR SUmmER REAL ESTATE SECTION

630.416.4191


CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE IN OUR SUmmER REAL ESTATE SECTION

630.416.4191


Visit our online real estate guide at www.chicagocommuter.com


Visit our online real estate guide at www.chicagocommuter.com


After five trips to Antarctica we cannot express the magic of the 7th continent that delivers the majesty of nature at her finest. Our most recent trip was on January 13, 2012 on the five star luxury ship Silversea Explorer. Each trip we have taken to this remote area of the world has been very different. Initially we thought this was a “once in a lifetime” experience, yet every few years we get the urge to return. You can visit only Antarctica or for a longer trip you can add South Georgia.

Why is it so special? Just the scenery alone is spectacular, even if you never left the ship. There is wildlife - the small seal pups are the most adorable creatures. Seeing two elephant seals sparring will never be forgotten. Our last trip we saw Orcas surrounding a pod of Humpback Whales trying to get the baby away from the adults. Antarctica is communing with wildlife at its best and up close and personal.

The penguins are fascinating. Each breed has their own unique behaviors. The Adelies do everything in groups marching up and down the beach. The Gentoos are the busiest stealing rocks from each other and building their nests. The Gentoo chicks are so curious I have seen them crawl onto people laps and peck at anything hanging down from their coats. Chinstraps are the cutest of all.Another fascinating aspect of this cruise is the story of Sir Ernest Shackelton who was stranded in Antarctica and his epic struggle to survive and the miracle of not losing a single man. On our last trip we

had such good weather we landed on Elephant Island at exactly the spot the men lived while Sir Ernest Shackelton took a small boat to South Georgia for assistance. It is not as rugged a trip as one might expect. You can go on a Russian boat with the bare minimums of accommodation, or one of the smaller expedition ships. Our choice is the five star luxury ship - the Silver Explorer with only 126 passengers. The accommodations are nice, the food excellent and the cruise is all inclusive of drinks and tips. The expedition team on the Silversea Explorer was by far the best expedition team we have ever experienced. During the time at sea they have a series of great lectures that you can see in the theatre or in your cabin on your plasma TV. All this luxury and you can stay in touch with wireless internet in the cabin.

From all the ships you go on shore by Zodiacs - something you adapt to very quickly. Loading in and out of the zodiacs is not difficult and the staff is wonderful at helping you. After a few landings it becomes a pretty standard operation. You are supplied with warm parkas and rubber boots and with a pair of water proof pants and you are set to go. The temperature usually ranges from about 20 – 45 degrees and often people are peeling off their parkas. Fortunately during the summer season there are many gloriously sunny days to enjoy the spectacular scenery. If you have the time and the means -

ANTARCTICA An Indescribable Experience!

GO TO ANTARCTICA... It is a trip you will never forget.


ARKANSAS ALABAMA

FLORIDA

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Providing lifetime refuge for abandoned, abused, and neglected "Big Cats"Providing lifetime refuge for abandoned, abused, and neglected "Big Cats"

ChiCago Commuter page 18 travel

GEORGIA

FLORIDA

Tour InformaTIon

Cyclorama ToursTour guides conduct a 40-minute, two-part educational program on the Battle of Atlanta every hour on the half hour from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The program includes special lighting, sound effects, music and narration (available in English, French, German, Japanese and Spanish).

Part I

A 14-minute film is shown detailing events that led to the Battle of Atlanta.

Part II

Guests are escorted into the Cyclorama to experience the battle. On a second rotation through history, guides explain the history of the painting and answer audience questions.

ChiCago Commuter page 19travel

HAWAII

Hawaii is like no other place on earth. Home to one of the world's most active volcanoes and the world's tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of modern surfing, the hula and Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Former seat of a royal kingdom and home to the only royal palace on US soil. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the young-est state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii's most unique fea-ture is its aloha spirit: the warmth of Hawaii's people that wonderfully complements the Islands' perfect temperatures.

There are six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big Island. You'll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities and sights. Mark Twain called Hawaii, "That peaceful land, that beautiful land... the climate, one long delicious summer day, and the good that die experience no change, for they but fall asleep in one heaven and wake up in another." We invite you to explore the Islands of Aloha to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences.

The People of Hawaii Would Like To Share Their Islands With You

The fresh, floral air energizes you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you.

The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you. Look around. ..There’s no place on earth like Hawaii.

Whether you're a new visitor or returning, our six unique is-lands offer distinct experiences that will entice any traveler. We warmly invite you to explore our islands and discover

your ideal travel experience.

www.gohawaii.com

IOWA

ILLINOIS

INDIANA

Photo courtesy of Illinois Dept of Natural Resources


MISSOURI

MINNESOTA

MICHIGAN


MONTANA

PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YORK

MOTELS, BED & BREKFASTS, ATTRACTIONS AND MORE!

www.CHICAGOCOMMUTER.com


WISCONSIN TENNESSEE

TEXAS


WISCONSIN

CANADA

Unrivaled Arts and Culture

Unreal Fishing

Unearthly Outdoor AdventureUnleashed

Family Fun

Unplugged Couples

Untamed Hunting

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We love outdoor adventure and revel in our wilderness and wildlife.

We combine rural small town charm and genuine friendliness with urban elegance and warm hospitality. Cosmopolitan and vibrant, adventurous and exhilarat-ing, cultured and multicultural, playful and festive -

in a word, unforgettable.

Boreal forest, rocky outcrops and pris-tine lakes. Wild rivers in the north and

agricultural fields in the south. Manitoba is a province of memorable contrasts -


MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITIONSGenghis Khan – Ruthless Warrior or Revered Statesman?

February 24 – September 3Uncover the amazing story of one of the world’s greatest leaders and most misunderstood conquerors in a new exhibition at the Field Museum. Discover the essence of his extensive empire, the lasting influence of his legacy and experience a world of conquest, diplomacy, innovation and destruction.(see story on page 9 for more details)

MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition Uncovers Truth or Myth

March 15 – September 3In partnership with the Discovery Channel and its Emmy®-nominated series MythBusters, the Museum of Science & Industry will present the world premiere of an exhibition which uncovers the truth or myth behind everything from toast landing butter-side down to blowing a brick house down. Dangle from ledges, or hang from phone books joined only by friction. Test whether you stay drier by walking or running through rain. In addition to hands-on experiments like these, explore props and gadgets from the MythBusters show—including a boat made out of duct tape—and watch live demonstrations by myth-busting facilitators.

Roy Lichtenstein: Retrospective of a Leading Pop ArtistMay 16 – September 3The Art Institute of Chicago presents a retrospective of Roy Lichtenstein’s work, the first assessment of the full scope and breadth of the foremost Pop artist’s career since his death in 1997. The exhibition features over 130 paintings and sculptures, as well as over 30 little- or never-before-seen drawings and collages.

Grainger Sky Theater Launches Visitors into Deep Space

The Adler Planetarium’s newly-renovated Grainger Sky Theater offers audiences the mostimmersive, technologically enhanced theater experience ever developed. Museum-goers become space adventurers and set off on a journey to explore the Universe like never before. Fashioned as the observation deck of a starship, the theater invites visitors to come aboard for the ultimate journey into deep space.

Hotel Lincoln Featuring Park and City Views

Opens in MarchSituated in the historic Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Hotel Lincoln, which overlooks the Lincoln Park Zoo, features world class

city and park views and a warm and inviting atmosphere. It houses Perennial Virant, one of Chicago’s premier restaurants with a menu that showcases local flavors and ingredients.

PUBLIC Chicago Transforms Legendary Ambassador East Hotel and Pump Room

Ian Schrager’s landmark transformation of the famed, iconic Ambassador East Hotel and its legendary Pump Room restaurant into PUBLIC Chicago provides a new type of hotel, “a cultural experience for the modern day traveler” in the heart of the Gold Coast. Although the famed Pump Room has undergone a complete renovation, world-renowned chef and 2011 James Beard award winner Jean-Georges Vongerichten has reinvented Original Pump Room menu classics. Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel and Filini Restaurant Open in Celebrated Skyscraper Radisson’s first U.S. location of its European chain is located on 18 floors of the new Aqua building, designed by world renowned architect Jeanne Gang. Filini, the hotel’s restaurant, features modern, authentic, Italian dining and one of Chicago's hottest bars.

Visitor Information ResourcesVisitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive trip-planning assistance and information by visiting www.ExploreChicago.org. Brochures and information on Chicago’s exciting events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information Centers. Friendly Visitor Representatives can answer questions and assist in planning an unforgettable itinerary. The visitor centers are located in two of the city’s most popular areas: across from Millennium Park in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street; and at the historic Water Works pumping station, 163 E. Pearson Street at Michigan .The Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture is dedicated to promoting Chicago as a premier cultural destination to domestic and international leisure travelers, providing innovative visitor programs and services, and presenting free world-class public programs. For more information please visit www.ExploreChicago.org.

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Documents

Chicago Commuter Spring 2012