One process followed by the next

Behind the Scenes at Goose Island with Graham Elliot

2011-09-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

published by The Feast on 07/13/2010

Though the actual brewing started yesterday, the collaboration between Goose Island Clybourn Head Brewer Jared Rouben and Chef Graham Elliot Bowles began weeks ago. In contrast to Rouben's other projects with chefs Rick Bayless (Frontera) and Paul Kahan (Publican), which kick off with a series of meetings to develop flavor profiles, this time, he went on a tasting mission. He was sent to sample the entire menu at Graham Elliot. Twice. Read the article here.

What's The Future of Food in Chicago

2011-09-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

published by The Feast on 04/11/2011

Time Out just announced the winners of their fifth annual Eat Out Awards, which honors critic and reader picks for the best in dining. With the recent buzz surrounding Grant Achatz's new restaurant Next and Stephanie Izard's win as a Food & Wine Best New Chef, we decided to check in with Eat Out editor David Tamarkin to discuss his thoughts on the players shaping the dining conversation in Chicago and its future. Read the interview here.

24 Hours of Mexico — in Chicago

2011-09-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

published by Saveur on 03/15/2011

As a gastronomic destination, Chicago is known variously as the land of deep-dish pizza, topping-laden hot dogs, and serious molecular gastronomy. But dive deeper into the city and you'll find a vibrant, multifaceted culinary culture in the form of countless late-night taquerias, fragrant elote carts, and roaming tamale trucks. Boasting one of the largest Mexican communities in the United States (second only to Los Angeles), Chicago offers authentic, soul-satisfying Mexican fare without the pricey international airfare. Should you find yourself in town, skip the hot dog carts in favor of tastes of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Sonora, Veracruz — as well as local interpretations of classics that are uniquely Chicagoan. Here, our itinerary for a straight 24-hour shot of Mexican food, noon to noon. Read the article here.

Homaro Cantu Thinks Inhalable Miracle Berry Can Save the World, Will Launch Related Cookbook

2011-09-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

published by The Feast on 09/08/2011

Between his total flavor tripping menu at restaurant iNG and the Michael Bolton-flashing kitchen robot at Moto, we thought we had heard it all from chef-slash-inventor Homaro Cantu. But according to Cantu, he's only getting started. This October, Cantu will have an extended Miracle Berry exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry—a primer for his Miracle Berry diet cookbook that will hit shelves later this spring. Here, he explains why he thinks this magic fruit is more than just a fun flavoring tripping experience—it may just be the key to fighting obesity, famine and the pain of cancer. Read the interview here.

Giuseppe Tentori Tours GT Fish & Oyster, Opening This Week

2011-09-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

published by The Feast on 03/29/2011

After months of hunger and anticipation, this Thursday Boka Group will finally open their long-awaited fifth restaurant GT Fish & Oyster. Last night we dropped in to get a first look at what to expect from GT himself—executive chef and partner Giuseppe Tentori. Though we wouldn't have expected anything less than sleek custom fixtures and a mouthwatering menu of oysters and lobster rolls—Tentori has added a few unexpected touches like housemade hot sauces, lobster pot pie, and even some non-fish selections. Hit play for a tour from the pro, and then download the menu to see what you'll be ordering later this week. Read more here.

Chicago Chefs Dish On The After-Hours Life

2011-09-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

View more videos at: http://thefeast.com.

published by The Feast on 11/03/2010

Like most evenings in the hospitality industry, food and wine flowed freely at last night's Friends of the James Beard Foundation fundraiser at Girl & The Goat. Even as chefs emerged with sweaty, exhausted smiles to greet guests and explain dishes, it was easy to forget that the headlining names at our favorite restaurants are often hard at work instead of partaking in the leisure of the masses. As we've learned from our Class Photo series, off-hours for those on the line are few and far between. There is however, that small window of post-shift downtime, no matter how busy you are. The late-night subculture of chefs has resulted in "industry nights", and the raison d'etre of James Toland's upcoming restaurant. Here, chefs Stephanie Izard (Girl & The Goat), Giuseppe Tentori (Boka), Bill Kim (Urban Belly), and David Posey (Blackbird) talk about their vices after-hours. Read more here.

Rick Bayless Talks Street Food, Xoco Food Truck

2011-09-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

View more videos at: http://thefeast.com.

published by The Feast on 09/27/2010
Among the steaks and champagne, gussied up street food and gastropubs made their debut at this year's Chicago Gourmet festival. In the past year alone, we've watched places like Xoco, Belly Shack, and Wave take Chicago by storm, leading to the never-ending legal battle over food trucks and pop-up restaurants. So we weren't shocked that Rick Bayless's guacamole bar was one of the biggest draws of the festival, drawing lines upwards of 80 people or more. The Feast caught up with Bayless as he signed copies of his latest book, "Fiesta at Rick's", to ask him about the future of street food and any plans to take Xoco to the streets. Read more here.

Spring Beers That Will Get Your Goose

2011-09-13T11:32:00.001-07:00

published by NBC Chicago on 02/22/2010

The froth has barely settled since Goose Island tapped into six new beers only two weeks ago, but the local brewery is already months ahead of us. We caught up with Brewmaster Greg Hall last week to get the lowdown on what to expect in the upcoming seasons. Read more here.

Where To Get Your Eat on After Midnight

2011-09-13T11:31:00.001-07:00

published by NBC Chicago on 02/24/2010

Somewhere between your last bite of dinner and last call at your favorite bar, the need for feed sets in. Conceding to Flash Taco just because it’s there beomes a bit daunting after the umpteenth time — especially if you are sober and simply afflicted with a case of insomnia or an unconventional work schedule. Luckily, others have caught onto the love of having a tasty late night snack and are offering way better options than another greasy dive. Read more here.

Thomas Keller Takes Us For a Drive, Gives Us Full History of In-N-Out. No Big Deal.

2011-09-13T11:28:00.001-07:00

View more videos at: http://thefeast.com.

published by The Feast on 11/14/2010

Thomas Keller and The French Laundry are now partnered with BMW, which is a win insofar as a related promotional event had The Feast riding shotgun with Keller last week. He riffed on whatever it is that the most famous chef in the United States cares to riff on, in this case the singular greatness of In-N-Out. Just seeing Keller talk and drive is a draw, so hit play. Read more here.

Garden Variety

2010-01-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

published by Metromix and in the Chicago Red Eye 01/08/2010

Amid celebrations of bacon and the rising popularity of offal on restaurant menus, it's easy to overlook the needs of the vegetarians among us. But vegetarians want another sad side salad about as much as anyone else wants another serving of seitan. Keep these spots in mind and you'll keep everyone happy with interesting veg-friendly fare and plenty of meat options too.

Read the full article here.

Making the cut: 'Top Chef' talent search

2009-10-27T05:57:00.000-07:00

published by Metromix and in the Chicago Red Eye 10/26/09

Finding chefs with the right combination of talent and personality to compete on “Top Chef” can’t be an easy task. So with reps in town scouting talent for Season 7 of the Bravo show (open casting call 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday at Wells on Wells), we figured we’d lend a hand.

And who better to assist than our very own Chicago lineup of past “Top Chef” contestants and guest judges? We asked Stephanie Izard, Radhika Desai, Art Smith and others who they’d put on the show, given the chance, then challenged them to devise a hypothetical challenge to ensure their top picks would have what it takes to make Chicago proud.

Read the full article here.

Coffeehouse bars

2009-10-22T21:38:00.000-07:00

published by Metromix on 10/22/09 and in the Chicago Red Eye on 10/23/09

During the day, our No. 1 vice is coffee. After dark, we’d rather get our buzz from something a little more potent. And sometimes we like to mix it up with a martini at noon and a mocha at midnight. It’s the rare establishment that caters to our every need, but a handful of places seem to be catching on. These casual cafes provide just the right balance of beans and booze, sometimes even in the same glass.

Read the full article here.

New Sushi

2009-10-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

published on Metromix and the Chicago Red Eye 9/25/09

Sushi spots come and sushi spots go, but every now and then, Chicago really gets on a roll. With at least a half-dozen new sushi restaurants opening in the last few months alone, we're working toward a sushi tsunami. But what's right for date night and what deserves to make your delivery rotation? Here's a look at what to expect.

Read article here.

Nice Save

2009-08-14T22:03:00.000-07:00

published on Metromix 8/14/09 and in the Chicago Red Eye on 8/17/09

If you and your friends are lamenting pay cuts or spending daytime hours surfing job ads, there’s no shame in saving a buck or three while eating and drinking to fill the void. These recently opened spots are right on board to offer you deals for every night of the week.

Read the article here.

Rock in the kitchen? Lost in the Supermarket: The Indie Rock Cookbook gets lost in translation

2008-09-28T06:34:00.000-07:00

published in Venus Zine on 9/26/08

Melding food and Fenders, authors Kay Bozich Owens and Lynn Owens share a collection of their favorite bands' recipes in their book, Lost in the Supermarket, investigating what they eat and why. The concept is irresistible to those who feel as passionate about food as they do about music. Unfortunately, though the book mimics a cookbook in format, it relies heavily on the prestige of featured bands instead of serving as a culinary guide.

The book has an impressive line-up of notable bands — Sonic Youth, Animal Collective, Genesis P-Orridge, and Belle and Sebastian — making it a natural draw for any music fan. And though there is no claim of idol worship, the book's organization prioritizes a band’s reputation over culinary merit. The problem with this approach for a cookbook is that not all musicians are epicureans, or necessarily have a special relationship with food.

In this day and age, when both bands and cooking are the basis of hip, exclusive coteries, an indie rock cookbook seems like a hushed invitation into the intimate off-hours in a band’s life; the same intrigue that helped foster the popularity of MTV Cribs. The difference between Cribs and Lost in the Supermarket is that voyeurism may be suitable for an hour of cable television, but not when investing in a cookbook. Mainly, the Owenses do not convince the reader why she should try or even care about these recipes.

The book’s recipes often focus on the history of the band as opposed to their connection with the food, with a few snarky submissions, like Xiu Xiu’s “Tofu”: a self-explanatory wash-and-eat recipe without any direct commentary from the band; and Japanther’s “Ultra Healthy Hot Dog”: a peanut butter and banana sandwich. This isn’t to say that all of the recipes sound unappealing or have an ironic tone. Brian Viglione from the Dresden Dolls offers a home recipe for pasta sauce and an anecdote about its history in his family, while the Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players share a “Good Morning Bread” recipe and a description of life in New York’s East Village — the type of intriguing entries that would have been an excellent focus for the cookbook.

Trying to cram too many good ideas into one book, or possibly facing a lack of compliance or interest on behalf of the bands, the Owens' project leaves much to be desired. Perhaps there are musicians who are good cooks or have a special relationship with food, but the Owenses had obvious difficulty finding them. And while many of these bands might be lost in the supermarket when it comes to cooking, the point of a cookbook is to make sure the reader isn’t.

—

ABOUT THE BOOK
Lost in the Supermarket: The Indie Rock Cookbook (Soft Skull Press)
By Kay Bozich Owens and Lynn Owens
192 pages
$17.95

Read the article here.

Carly Fisher loves the Black Cab Sessions

2008-09-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

staff favorite for Venus Zine published on 9/22/08

At least two people recently asked me if I had been on Taxicab Confessions coked out of my mind in the backseat with a random dude. If anyone saw this episode, I’d like to clarify it wasn’t me. However, the bands on blackcabconfessions.com are readily identifiable and significantly less embarrassing, using a back of a taxi cab as a venue for an acoustic gig on the go. Notable indie acts such as Lykke Li, the Futureheads, the New Pornographers, and Spoon, are a few of the contributors to the project. Having just hit its 50th session in July 2008, the project is still truckin’ — er, cabbing.

Read the article here.

Carnitas El Paisa

2008-09-18T07:22:00.002-07:00

commissioned for Centerstage, publishing date TBA

According to restaurant owner Atendidos por Barbarita, Carnitas El Paisa roughly translates to “meats, my friend,” which is essentially what you get at this authentic Mexican eatery — lots of it. And by “authentic,” we’re not talking about your run-of-the-mill taqueria. Carnitas El Paisa does offer a small selection of your average tacos, tortas and burritos, but patrons know to come in for the carnitas, chicharron and barbacoa. Unfortunately, Barbarita says most people who are not Mexican have no idea what the items are.

For the authentic Mexican food novice, here’s what to expect: most noticeably are the massive crispy pieces of deep-fried pork belly, which great customers as they walk in called chicharron. Then there are the carnitas, which are juicy pieces of pork that have been marinated for several hours, and barbacoa, which is steamed beef or goat. All dishes are available as entrees with rice, beans and tortillas for $9-$9.50, or sold by the pound. Unsurprisingly, vegetarians are looking at yet another rice-‘n’-beans or cactus salad night.

With only six or seven items featured, Carnitas El Paisa is deceptively simple. Barbarita says she will put in about seven hours of prep work on Friday and Saturday mornings as early as 3 a.m. or 4 a.m. and sometimes more depending on special orders. Despite a spacious and charming dining room, the restaurant is often quieter than one might expect. The reason being that business thrives on carry-out as opposed to dine-in, which is mainly how the restaurant manages to close as early as 6 p.m. on weeknights and 8 p.m. on the weekend. Although not nearly as popular as lunch or dinner, early risers can also stop in Carnitas El Paisa for breakfast — authentic Mexican, of course. “We serve breakfast,” Barbarita says. “But no pancakes.”

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; closed Tuesday

Latin American Restaurant and Lounge

2008-09-18T07:22:00.001-07:00

commissioned for Centerstage, publishing date TBA

And yet another contender enters the fight for the title of "Oldest Authentic Puerto Rican Restaurant in Humboldt Park." Opened in 1958, Latin American Restaurant and Lounge certainly has the age to back the claim from current owner Jaime Cruz. Whether or not the restaurant wins the title, it certainly has the sustained long enough to make it a neighborhood staple.

Family is a key component of the restaurant. Cruz inherited the restaurant from his uncle, who founded the restaurant in hopes of bringing family-sized home-style Puerto Rican recipes from his kitchen to the neighborhood table. Despite the notable presence of a pool table and bar that takes up a good half of the restaurant, the atmosphere caters to families with children for dinner time and then casually transcends into a sports bar by late evening.

As far as Latin American cuisine, you're looking at a predominantly Puerto Rican menu — mostly in Spanish — with a few Mexican and American dinner items scattered among the entrees. Vegetarian options are essentially non-existent, so it's safe to say that nothing is vegan either— bad news for the herbivores. Likewise, if you're counting points for Weight Watchers, you might as well break your fast, assuming that everything you are ordering is fried. For the rest of you oil loving meat eaters, if you're totally clueless when it comes to Puerto Rican fare, it's best to start with the steak jibarito (plantain sandwich) with rice for $6.25, or the Chuletas Kan Kan (roast pork) paired with a side of plantain chips or mashed plantains for $9.95. Desserts are only $2.00, so you won't break the bank by tacking on flan or tembleque (Puerto Rican coconut pudding).

Cruz says to expect programs like Monday night football specials and Friday night karaoke to start appearing within the next few weeks, where families are welcome to ditch the babysitter and bring the kiddies. Then again, family restaurants aren’t for everyone, which is why the restaurant also offers the convenience of delivery.

Hours: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun-Thu, 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri-Sat

Carly Fisher loves Boat Club

2008-09-18T07:22:00.000-07:00

staff favorite for Venus Zine published 9/3/08

The problem with an amazing EP is the 10 to 28 minute length tends to leave an unsatisfied craving for more. After being whisked away by Boat Club's dreamy, nautical synths and then awaking to the harsh reality of your constrictive day job, you might find yourself upset that your mental vacation was cut to an EP length. Airy and electronic with retro-inspired beats, the Swedish group's aptly titled and highly underrated 2007 release Caught the Breeze has been on heavy rotation on my iTunes for some time now. When are we gonna see a full release, Boat Club?

Read the article here.

Caught on tape

2008-09-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

published in Venus Zine's 2008 Fall issue

Back when the portable audio standard was the Walkman, a meticulously planned mixtape was the ultimate token of showing that special someone you truly care. Cassettefrommyex.com dusts off old mixtapes and shares the intimate stories behind the plastic from awkward first dates to summers filled with Faith No More, Patty Loveless, and Digable Planets.

The concept is a natural transition for Jason Bitner, co-creator of Cassettefrommyex.com. Bitner formerly worked at FOUND Magazine, which publishes lost-and-found letters and scribbles, providing readers with a vague look into a stranger’s life. For Cassettefrommyex.com, Bitner and his production crew launced the site in March by inviting their creative type friends to write narratives about mixtapes from their ex-boyfriends and girlfriends.

“I was rummaging around in my basement a few months ago when I happened upon a relic of my teen years: Music To Soak Your Toe To,” Bitner says. “This mixtape, compiled for me by my then-girlfriend Kate, stayed with me for 17 years. I knew that if I had kept an old mixtape that most everyone must have one in a dusty shoebox somewhere.”

Stand-out “ex” stories include Magnetic Fields’ Claudia Gonson waxing nostalgic about her high school sweetheart and Dave Nadelberg, author of the MORTIFIED project, a cringe-worthy collection of teenage diary entries. Nadelberg recites an anecdote about an aptly titled “Obliteration” mix from a short-lived fling: “We were at a rave in Ithaca, New York. I was drunk-ish. She was stoned-ish. Despite our inebriated vision, it was lust at first sight-ish.”

Reader of the Week: Abby Schwartz

2008-09-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

published in Venus Zine on 9/1/08

Abby Schwartz is leading something of a double life. By day, Schwartz works as a coordinator for the San Diego LGBT Community Center, planning events and referring LGBT women and allies to queer friendly health care services. After hours, Schwartz transforms into budding feminist rap persona MC Flow, busting rhymes alongside big acts like Yo Majesty, T.I., and Clipse, and winning a 2007 San Diego Music Award in the “Best Hip-Hop” category. Schwartz talks here about the challenges she’s faced in becoming a fly femcee, and shows her love for Venus Zine with a few rhymes.

How did MC Flow develop?
I wrote poetry and did spoken word for many years before I started rapping. I hosted an open mic for women in San Diego called Siren for a number of years where I met a lot of local musicians. A few of my closest friends and I decided to put some of my poetry and newly written raps to music. Over time, my band mate Taylor and I got more serious about the project. She put down her guitar and started writing beats, and from there things just took off. We later hooked up with our dancer, GG, and our DJ, Rob Fayder, completing the band. I couldn’t think of a funnier, simpler name for a feminist rapper than MC Flow. I think I had just finished reading Inga Muscio’s book Cunt for the tenth time when I named myself that.

What was your first show like?
My first show was probably embarrassing! I think I wore baggy track pants and an extra large T-shirt, and tried to be the picture of what I thought a rapper should look like. The best lesson I ever learned was just to be myself. Trying to pass myself as gangsta is ridiculous — I’m a Jewish lesbian from Westchester!

How have you evolved as a rapper?
I think I’ve evolved a lot as a performer. I’m a lot more comfortable and confident on stage than I used to be. I have learned to just have fun with it.

What challenges have you had to face being a female rapper?
I’ve faced my share of challenges. I’ve had guys come up to me after shows and ask, “So who writes your raps?” when I write my own lyrics. I’ve had male critics make comments that I get press coverage in San Diego by sucking dick — which is ridiculous, because I’m gay! But I also think being female helps me stand out in my genre. There aren’t many other white chicks that can spit it like I can.

Will you write me something?
Venus Zine, the dopest mag
I read you when I’m on the rag
Feminism’s my affliction
So I better get a fat subscription!

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Bernyce Talley

2008-08-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

published in Venus Zine on 8/11/08

Aspirations of becoming a professional comic book artist are often knocked aside as just a pipe dream. But Venus Zine reader Berynce Talley is making her dream a reality. At only 25, Talley has started her own business and published seven books. When she is not teaching art at a non-profit in Los Angeles, she’s busy working on her forthcoming graphic novel, Coffee Cake. Talley takes a break from her carpal tunnel-inducing work to talk about making it in the sequential art world.

How long have you been making comics?
I have been making comics since 2003. Nubian Queen Comics is my self-publishing business. I can't quite quit my day job and work on it full-time, but it's a business of passion. I love what I do, I just wish I could get up every morning and do this full time.

What sort of issues do you address in your comics?
Coffee Cake is an autobiographical graphic novel in the works about my years attending a black college in Georgia. I wanted to show the humor, culture clash, and the struggle to find myself as an individual and black woman. Le Menagerie is my first superhero comic that deals with Africa and Black America, and then there is my pride and joy, La La Land, which is a little zine that shows the struggles of holding down a job, yo-yo diets, dating, sex, and the everyday bout of living in Los Angeles.

What is most challenging about being an artist?
Getting my work out there. I'm always trying to promote myself through blogs, MySpace, conventions, and art shows, networking and hobnobbing with people to get connections and take the next step. I'm hoping my graphic novel will be the launching pad for my drawing and comic career.

Do you wish there was more female representation of comic book artists?
There are a lot of women that make comics out there who are gaining ground in the sequential art world like Becky Cloonan, Jessica Abel, Hope Larson, and Erica Moen. I am involved with an organization that specializes in African American women in comics called the Ormes Society, named after Jackie Ormes, the popular black cartoonist from the ‘50s. We are a small society of unrecognized artists trying to gain recognition from the comics community for our contributions to the art form.

I'm hoping to attract more young African American women and men to my comics. I want people to see things from a minority perspective — that there is someone out there who wants to tell a story about what goes on within our culture beyond the musings of television and music.

Any advice for the budding comic book artist?
If you want to get into comics, don't just sit on your thumbs — grab a pencil and start writing and drawing. You can make zines in your living room or shell out cash for a big publication. Look for any venue to sell your comics. People will respond, just get them excited. I will be at the Alternative Press Expo in San Francisco on November 1-2. Come by the Nubian Queen Comics table and chat with me!

—

Check out Talley’s work at her blog at nubianqueen08.livejournal.com.

Read the article here.

Bice Bistro

2008-08-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

published at Centerstage.net on 8/25/08

Bice Bistro at the Talbott Hotel
20 E. Delaware Pl.
(312) 944-4970
www.bicechicago.com

If you're looking for traditional Italian fare and upscale lodgings in the River North neighborhood, but don't mind tacking on inevitable valet costs or taking public transit, then Bice Bistro might be a good choice for you. Located inside the ritzy Talbott Hotel, a stone's throw away from the Viagra Triangle, an upscale look is to be expected. Yet, Bice Bistro manages to keep prices reasonable, with entrees ranging $10.95-$21.95.

Smaller than its sister, Bice Ristorante, the bistro manages to shine on its own with some original menu items. The Salmone alla Sicliana in Cartoccio is one of the more commonly ordered menu items featuring baked salmon in parchment paper with black olives, capers and vegetables ($19.95). While the two restaurants do not have a Marsha-Jan relationship, Bice Bistro does take after its sister with a few family recipes such as the Funghi Risotto with wild mushrooms and saffron ($15.95). Why mess with a good thing? If you have the appetite and dough for some dessert (pun entirely intended), you can't go wrong with tiramisu ($7.75) or the decadent Cioccolatissimo chocolate souffle with vanilla gelato ($8.50).

Although the hotel lobby space is limited, Bice creates a spacious atmosphere with a wall-to-wall mirror. A handsome mahogany bar centers the intimately sized dining room, inspired with fine Italian accents to create a clubby ambiance. If you don't like inhaling exhaust, but would still like to spend your meal people watching, Bice opens its tavern to the less trafficked Delaware Pl. during the warmer months of the year. And though Bice claims their dress is casual, just try to have a little class when you come in. This isn't the Olive Garden.

Hours: 6:30 a.m.-10p.m. daily

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Em Ledger

2008-07-28T19:58:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 7/28/08

For the past year, Em Ledger has been building a thriving riot grrl community from the bottom up in Sheffield, UK. Taking influence from nearby grrl collectives such as Manifesta in Leeds and Female Trouble in Manchester, Ledger and friends decided to start their own group by throwing together DIY showcases for musicians and artists. Ledger talks here about how she was able to start her own collective and how you can do it, too.

That's so awesome you have a riot grrl collective! Tell me about your group, Lola and the Cartwheels.
The whole project really started from a real lack of positive grrl events and attitude. I was sick of going to the same indie clubs with the meat market atmosphere and ego-fests. I just wanted to create a safe and fun atmosphere for like-minded people who wanted to collaborate.

We work alone in the events we do but are part of a network called Riot Grrrl North UK that supports touring bands to help them get as much shows and exposure as possible. There are six core members of the group, who ensure the organization, publicity, and general maintenance of the group, and then a whole bunch of people who come together and get involved, which is exactly what we love about this scene.

What does the group do?
Lola was born June 2007 when we put on our first show with some friends. We then went on to set up a monthly showcase of grrl and queer musicians and artists called “Coughs and Sneezes Spread Diseases,” which featured bands, craft stalls, a zine distro, and a club night afterwards with resident and guest DJs.

We had a regular venue at the Redhouse in Sheffield where we hosted all our events for the first year of Lola, but our club night just finished. Now we are concentrating on some new projects and sourcing a new venue as our usual one is experiencing financial difficulty. This year, we're looking to showcase film screenings, zine and craft workshops, and other community events.

What are some cool things the group has done?
A year ago we never thought we'd get to do half the things we have. We were included in the riot grrl book Revolution Girl Style Now. We put on a show with Partyline and got to meet our idol, Allison Wolfe. Allison was great; she was down to earth and inspiring. It was refreshing to see someone who still has passion and drive after so many years.

We managed to book them through the Riot Grrrl UK network. As soon as one person hears of a touring band, they'll let the band know there are several other collectives around the country, and usually they e-mail with all their dates and we let them know if we can help out. We'd encourage anyone to give it a go — start off small and see where it leads. Put out fliers in your area and see who responds. Maybe you'll meet some new best friends, band members, etc!

How can people get involved?
We're always looking for new projects, ideas, touring bands and artists, and people of all kinds. If you wanna get involved, suggest ideas, play a show, or send us your zine, you can contact us on our MySpace page, MySpace.com/lolaandthecartwheelssheff, email us at lolaandthecartwheelssheff@hotmail.co.uk, or join our Facebook group!

—

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Candice Wing Yee Mack

2008-07-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 7/21/08

From the rough-and-tumble stacks of the Los Angeles Public Library, Candice Wing-Yee Mack is a 4-foot-10 library card–swingin’, information cowgirl. In addition to being a proud bookworm and teen services librarian, she’s also a culture vixen with her own weekly Web radio show. Wing-Yee Mack talks here about the secret lives of tiny librarians and getting kids hooked on books.

Are there enough tiny librarians to form a collective and/or army?
It's fabulous being a tiny librarian! I get the opportunity to work with a huge variety of people and answer a huge variety of questions. The diversity is what makes it fun and challenging. The tiny librarian collective is coming to an information center near you soon, if we're not already there. We lurk on a bevy of online answer services like Yahoo! Answers, ChaCha, Wikipedia, AskNow, Ask A Librarian, etc.

There has to be more to the job than shushing youngsters and telling them to use the online card catalog. Tell me something awesome that’s happened on the job.
A few months ago, on Free Comic Book Day, I saw a teen wearing a T-shirt with a bunch of comic book characters on it and asked if he wanted a gift bag. We got to talking, and it turns out he wasn't really into comic books (he said the shirt had been given to him as a gag gift), but that he was interested in the graphic novel, Fun Home by Alison Bechdel.

For those who are not familiar with the book, it is Bechdel's autobiography about growing up, coming out, and discovering after his death that her father was secretly gay. We didn't carry the book at my library, but I happened to have my own copy at my desk because I was going to donate it to my branch. I ended up loaning the teen my personal copy of the book. A few weeks later, when he returned it, he told me how much he enjoyed the book and how he and Bechdel had been e-mailing back and forth. This is just one example of why I love my job and how libraries can impact people's lives.

Tell me more about yourself. What are your off hours like?
I love learning new things and having a good time, so I tend to haunt foodie blogs and sites like yelp and citysearch to learn about the new places to eat and hang out. As a teen services librarian, I need to keep up on pop culture — that, and I love pop culture in general — so, I watch a lot of TV and films, listen to all types of music, and go to concerts and clubs. I also do a show on the community-based Internet radio station imradionetwork.org on Sunday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon.

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Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Marjorie Perry

2008-07-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 7/14/08

When she decided to shave her head, Marjorie Perry said she just bit the bullet one day and went to Supercuts. That’s it. But for Perry, going with the flow seems to be her M.O. From living in a foreign country to living in her own country without electricity, the 22-year-old is naturally inclined to living life in the moment. The rental clerk at That’s Rentertainment, the last locally owned video store in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, talks here about killing with kindness, living without electricity, and how to eat sea urchin.

What have you been up to?
I guess the most newsworthy thing I've done is the Hug-In. A friend of mine was attacked last semester as he was walking home one night because he was perceived as gay. I wanted to do something really positive in retaliation — a kill them with kindness thing. So, a bunch of us queers took over the same bar-strip space of the campus where he was attacked on a Friday night, and handed out hugs, flowers, balloons, and candy. I organized it, but I had a lot of help. I thought it was really successful because I wanted to get the word out about what happened, since my school really did not address it. I really want to do it next year even bigger and better.

You mentioned in your email you’ve been living without electricity for awhile. How have you been managing to function?
I've been going without electricity since the semester ended — so, about 2 months? I have another month to go, but it's not even an issue any more. I am pretty ecstatic to move into my new apartment though. I know it's going to feel like moving into the Hilton. I will definitely appreciate the things the first world takes as a given: hot showers, reliable power, and modern refrigeration.

You're quite the trooper — and also quite the traveler. What was it like living in Hong Kong for a year?
That was great. I'm kind of a foodie, and I got the chance to try some crazy stuff. I unwittingly ate congealed pig's blood — it was cubed up and put in a soup. I also ate live sea urchin. The lady chops the shell in half and you quickly suck out the inky, spongy inside.

A great perk of living in another country is the change of perspective on what is truly a worry or a problem. When I was living in Hong Kong, I had to figure out a lot on my own and how to work through different problems. So, when I came back, the problems I encountered at home were not so daunting.

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Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Craig Hunter

2008-07-28T19:50:00.001-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 7/07/08

Multi-talented craftster and feminist Craig Hunter is a busy dude. Having just moved across country from Houston, Hunter has found a niche within the Brooklyn indie community as his DIY Web site Cubist Literature continues to grow. His interest in women’s literature has fostered the progression of the site, which began as a solo music project and has since evolved into clothing, crafts, and blogging. Hunter talks here about his site, his heroes and how Le Tigre got away with his favorite sunglasses.

What are you currently doing with your bad self?
NOT birdwatching, I can tell you that. That's what I wanted to do when I was five years old. Instead, I run Cubist Literature (or C.Lit, if yr nasty), mostly designing t-shirts these days. Basically, it is a means of expressing myself creatively and artistically — and it also happens to be my full-time job!

Where did the name Cubist Literature come from?
The name came to me while I was home alone on a Saturday night, drinking whiskey and doing homework. I was reading Gertrude Stein for a literature by women course I was taking, and I started reading up on her and found that her style was called “cubist literature.” Think cubist art but made up with words. I felt akin to that name for some reason and that it would be an appropriate name for my solo music project. Gertrude Stein's work is definitely amazing and quite an experience. It's a bit intense and insane, too. That's why I like it.

On your site, you talk a bit about your heroes. Who are they and why are they your heroes?
My heroes are all women!: Miranda July, Kathleen Hanna, Kim Gordon, and Debbie Stoller. I have met Debbie Stoller, Kim Gordon (twice), and Kathleen Hanna — but that’s a story spanning two days and a pair of stolen sunglasses. I still haven't met Miranda July. One day, I hope.

Back up. What is this story about Kathleen Hanna and stolen sunglasses?
So, it was my first time seeing Le Tigre and because I was REALLY excited, I wanted to see both their Texas shows. At the Austin show I was up close at the front and I had been wearing these cool sunglasses. But because it was inside at a show and dark, I had them in my hand, waving them around, dancing to the music. Johanna Fateman was near me for some reason and saw me holding my glasses high up in the air, so she came closer and instead of touching my hand (which is what I thought she was going to do), she grabbed my sunglasses and put them on.

I didn't get upset, because I thought they'd just give them back after the show. During the last song, I ran outside and waited out back so that I could intercept and get my glasses back. But that didn't go down. Instead, JD used the sunglasses as a disguise to run back and forth between the tour buses.

Those thieves! What happened next?
OK, fast forward to the next day in Houston. I went to talk to a roadie about these STOLEN sunglasses (and plus I said I'd really like to meet Le Tigre, especially Kathleen Hanna, because their work and music meant a lot to me). The roadie said normally she'd see if she could get me on the tour bus to meet them, but they were busy getting dressed and ready for their set.

When Le Tigre got on stage that evening, the first thing I saw — I was in the front row again, of course — was Kathleen wearing my sunglasses! And after the first song, I yelled out (not angrily, though), "Hey, y'all stole my sunglasses!" And Kathleen came up and yelled back, smiling, "Nu-uh! You gave them to us!" And so that taunting with sunglasses went on the whole set.

I was determined to meet them this day, so during the second to last song, my sister Windy and I ran out to the side of the venue to wait for them. It took a little bit, but before long I saw the women exit the building and Kathleen said, "Oh, there he is. We found him."

She and Johanna came over to us and said, "Oh my God, you GAVE us these sunglasses! We didn't steal them from you." And by that time, I didn't even care about the glasses anymore. I was just too excited to meet Kathleen, so I said, "Forget about the glasses. You can keep them. I just have to tell you how much you guys mean to me and have influenced me." And we talked and Kathleen had heard from the roadie that I'd started a women's issues group at my small Catholic university and thought that was awesome.

So, did you ever get the sunglasses back?
Le Tigre mention the incident in their blog, but they got the end of the story wrong: they said I made them give the sunglasses back. Lies! I don't own them anymore.

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Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Jane Hanna

2008-07-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 6/30/08

In between marketing for alternative weekly newspaper Chicago Reader, ponying with her dance troupe, the Janes, and rocking out with her band, Vamplifier, Jane Hanna finds little time for anything else. The self-proclaimed “train wreck” takes a moment out of her busy schedule to talk about partying, cheeky mini skirts, and finding a niche for her band’s eclectic sound.

What does being a special events and promotions coordinator entail? What percentage of this profession involves partying?
I'm basically the entire marketing department and street team for the newspaper, with the help of my trusty assistant. We have a booth at most of the music festivals and other cool summer events around town, so I get to hang out at those for free. I organize things like the huge bash we threw at Martyrs' back in May 2008 to celebrate our first-ever “Best of Chicago Readers Poll.” But I'm usually too busy being obsessive about the details to actually party at my own parties. I sacrifice my enjoyment so that the guests can enjoy a smoothly run evening. Noble of me, isn't it?

How long have you been involved in the Chicago go-go's group, the Janes? What do you usually do at one of your shows?
I've only been dancing with the Janes for a few months. I got hooked on the go-go aerobics classes at The Flamenco Arts Center (taught by the leader of the Janes), which are so much better than going to the gym. But I have this terrible addiction to the stage, so the gals were nice enough to let me join the performance troupe once they realized I was probably going to start showing up at their gigs in costume anyway!

We do authentic ‘60s-style choreography to songs of the era and perform all over town at benefit shows, festivals, and special events. Sometimes bands will hire us to add a little something to their stage show and we'll improv a set. You really can't go wrong when a bunch of girls with white boots and big hair run up onstage. It just does something to people — they go crazy when we start ponying.

How many inches above the knee does your skirt have to be to participate?
The costumes are retro and cheeky, but nothing naughty sticks out. Although, at my very first gig, I had to borrow a dress from another Jane so I'd match the group, and she's a bit shorter than me (I'm the tallest Jane). Let's just say that the fringe hanging off the bottom hem was about a millimeter away from turning things into adult entertainment.

Tell me about your band, Vamplifier.
I play keyboards and sing some, but I'll be throwing in some guitar once I get a little further in my lessons. We have an eclectic sound, with a lot of different influences. Basically if David Bowie and Marc Bolan had been hanging around Stax Records, and Television walked in with the Clash and they all started jamming to the Doors, it'd be weird and loud. But kinda cool? Let's call us psychedelic, trashy, post-punk, garage pop. PTP-PGP. That sounds good. We're putting out a self-produced EP called Knife Techniques later this summer.

How do you balance your job, your go-go troupe, and your band in addition to your social life?
I don't, actually. I'm kind of a train wreck. But I'm happy. My boyfriend calms me down, my dog cracks me up, and I wouldn't know what to do with myself if I was any less over-booked.

Where can readers learn more about your projects?
Where else but MySpace? You can find the Janes schedule and booking info at myspace.com/thejanesgogo and Vamplifier's show info and CDs at myspace.com/vamplifier. You can also read the Reader online at chicagoreader.com.

Read the article here.

Indiegrrl conference strives to teach women about the music industry

2008-06-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/26/08

Whether you’re an aspiring musician or a seasoned professional, the First Annual 2008 Indiegrrl Women in the Arts Conference is a two-day, two-night rockin’ retreat for those looking to network, get on board with current trends in the music industry, and receive feedback from respected professionals in the trade.

The conference takes place August 21–24 at the Spencer Penn Center in Spencer, Virginia, featuring songwriting and performance critique rooms, showcase performances from members of Rockin’ Moms, Songsalive, and Females on Fire. The conference also features seminars on music industry issues in addition to workshops such as alternative guitar tunings with Gibson-endorsed solo guitarist Vicki Genfan and learning to book a tour with Robin Hinnant of Onlinegigs.

Indiegrrl organizer Vicki Blankenship says the event is intended to strengthen entrepreneurial skills and educate musicians within the indie community.

The conference kicks off with a buffet-style banquet featuring two keynote speakers: musician-actress Bonnie Bramlett and Molly Neuman, former Bratmobile member and current Donnas’ manager. “I’m planning on speaking about my path in the music business and the constant theme of independence and how it has been enhanced by my passion for women’s issues,” Neuman says. “I’m very excited about the opportunity to speak to women. I hope to share my commitment to women’s activism and independence in music.”

A full pass gains you access to all workshops, panels, the exhibit hall, and live performances and are $100 if purchased by July 31 or $125 at the door. Tickets for the Thursday night banquet with Bramlett and Neuman are an additional $30 and limited to 300 seats. Or if you just want to check out showcasing artists, general admission is only $10.

Banquet and conference tickets are available online at indiegrrl.com/2008conference.html.

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For more information on 2008 Indiegrrl Women in the Arts Conference, check out indiegrrl.com/2008conference.html

Read the article here.

Carly Fisher loves embroidery cards from Sublime Stitching

2008-06-27T14:43:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/27/08

My family is notorious for sending cards for everything: holidays, thank you notes, thank you notes for thank you notes, "Thinking of you" cards, "Do you need any money? We worry constantly!" cards, etc. During a time when sending an e-card is cheaper and faster, receiving a letter that doesn't require payment is often more thoughtful—however, who needs the wasted paper? Sublime Stitching takes a utilitarian approach to a thoughtful card with their new embroidery cards that feature six 5" x 7" postcards in three adorable themes: Chinatown, Gnomes & Fairies, and Forest Friends. Each pattern comes on two cards for sharing patterns without parting with your favorites.

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Melanie Barrows

2008-06-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/23/08

From Virginia to San Diego, Melanie Barrows has finally settled in the mid-coast and found a home at Chicago’s Second City as house manager. The improv comedy house launched the careers of dozens of skilled actors and comedians, including John Belushi, Billy Murray, Amy Sedaris, Steven Colbert, Tina Fey, and Steve Carell. Barrows talks here about her perilous journey to the Midwest, Second City’s most washed-up cast member, and her eclectic after-hours hobbies.

Okay, so who are you? How did you get here? Did you remember to bring your wallet?
I came to this slowly warming metropolis by driving my little red car in the midst of the winter through the most horrendous snowstorm ever! My wallet — well, that was not so full when I got here — but I still have it and it looks a lot better these days.

Who is Second City’s most washed-up cast member?
Wow, that question could probably lose me my job and then some. So my answer is: I don't believe Second City would have anyone washed up on their cast! They have a really good set of people on both the stages here — and a good group of women are working the shows now too. I especially like a couple of them, one in particular being Shelly Gossman on the main stage. Her precision onstage with improvisation is right on the money, and she can roll with the best of them!

On your MySpace page, you say that you "like sound of the glockenspiel, banjo, and melodica." What is your problem with "mainstream" instruments?
I have no problems with "mainstream" instruments per se; I just really love those instruments. I have been trying to teach myself to play the long-neck banjo, but it is a bit hard and I cannot seem to find anyone to sit down and teach me. The melodica is just a weird and awesome instrument — I mean, it’s a piano you play with the power of your wind! The glockenspiel is just a good word, and you can transport that damn thing with you anywhere!

Will you draw me a funny picture?
I will draw you a funny picture if you send me a picture of someone to draw! I will include some photos of my silly drawings, just to appease you though!

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Kay Barrett

2008-06-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/17/08

Tell me about your current involvement in Filipina/o American politics. How does that tie in with your work with LGBTQ issues?
I'm dedicated to performance and facilitating workshops that entail LGBTQ, racism, and immigrant rights. Working with various organizations, we try to coalesce these aspects. I'm a believer of Audre Lorde's, "There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives."

Like many QPOC (Queer People of Color), I had to struggle with being queer/trans, of color, an immigrant, low income, etc. all at once from an early age. It was only later that I discovered that the Philippines have a vital radical political history, but also a vibrant LGBTQ, anti-U.S. imperialism movement. LGBTQ people are affected in every facet of any community—Latin, Caribbean, first nations, and in my case, Filipino—although, there's denial about LGBTQ people in the Filipino solidarity communities here in the U.S. People want you to put in the sweat, but not talk about straight privilege, much like white feminism alienating experiences from women of color. Being Pinay and queer are intrinsic to my spirit—you can't separate that.

Being that poetry is your forte, how do you prepare for an open-mic night?
For the last few years, I have been performing solo and ensemble work nationally with Mango Tribe at theaters, universities, community organizations, etc., which demands a lot from me in a wonderful way. Since I am terrible at memorization (and always have been), I'm usually the nervous one who is mumbling to hirself behind the stage. Performances and workshops run all year, airport to airport, sometimes for special events like APIA (Asian/Pacific Islander American) heritage month or Pride Month, but mostly out of the basic need for APIA queer experiences to be told.

You seem to be involved in a lot of different projects and causes (Awesome!). But do you ever feel like you spread yourself thin with too many projects? How do you find the time to work with your LGBTQ caucus, Mango Tribe, open mics and having your work published (am I missing some other projects?!)?
Too many projects? Nahhh NEVER! Spread myself thin? Well, yes. All the time. It keeps me going and helps me build with powerful and fly people who believe in art for social change. I was born a busy kid. I've always enjoyed being an educator and working with youth too, but being on stage isn't enough work—I feel we can always do more.

My recent projects include: a contribution to 'Kicked Out' Anthology by Homofactus Press, a one queer show in the works, and a documentary about me entitled, Bring Your Fierce by Say It Loud Productions. Don't get me wrong; I am such a homebody. I like to grill, read, and kick it with my lovely partner and my handsome puppy. I make the time.

Read the article here.

Dirt cheap digs: how to spruce up your place on a budget

2008-06-27T14:37:00.001-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/03/08

Before and after: $15 yard sale fix up (Photo by Carly Fisher)

No matter how many times you’ve decorated, cleaned, or rearranged the furniture, it seems there’s always something missing in that quest to make a house a home. But when you’re changing the interior of your living room faster than you can pay the credit card bills, sometimes you have to get financially crafty. Venus Zine shares some tips to help you walk away with twice the items for half the price.

Hit up Craigslist
I know, I know, I’m beating a dead horse by advising people to use Craigslist, but I can't stress how convenient it is to find furnishings — sometimes brand-new, brand-name items — for half price. Before making a trip to another chain department store, check out Craigslist’s "free," "garage sales," and "furniture" categories. Much like the personals section, a lot of what’s listed is crap, but with patience, you could walk away with, say, a brand-new Brita faucet filter and replacement cartridge for $10 or two Ikea area rugs for the price of one (I did).

Take a walk
While Craigslist and online syndicates of your local paper serve as useful tools for locating garage sales, don’t forget that not everyone is computer savvy. Sometimes a simple walk around the block helps you find a treasure. You might discover an additional five garage sales or notice a cool desk someone has left out on the curb for garbage pickup. Besides, you might as well walk off any lingering seasonal depression.

As with most garage sales, going early is best if you plan on competing with other bargain hunters, so rise and shine to get moving around 10 a.m. when most sales start — Saturdays are often better than Sundays for finding the most sales. Find out what day your local garbage pickup is and take a stroll the afternoon or evening before for any last minute throw-aways.

Estate and moving sales
Estate and moving sales are the best for turning someone else's house into your own. As opposed to buying a $5 whisk at the store, you might find a whisk and four other items for the same price. Plus, the “everything must go” mentality gives you more bargaining power because sellers would rather make a couple bucks less than kick it to the curb. On the other hand, while you could very well come across antiques and original artwork, the prices for these items are often hit or miss — particularly if the sale is run by a professional company.

Local newspapers and estatesales.net are good sources for sales in your area in addition to finding out the names of local professional estate sale companies. Many of these companies let you to subscribe to mailing lists for press releases on upcoming sales.

Dollar stores
I bet you pass several dollar stores a day without stepping into one. Though the discount stores carry a lot of random stuff, you can often score all sorts of household accessories such as kitchenware, shower curtains, and closet organizers.

Can’t fit art into you budget but sick of looking at bare walls? The dollar store often has a selection of funky picture frames perfect for sticking in a collage or some cut-outs from the latest issue of Venus Zine (ahem). While my mother, a dollar-store regular, weened me on national discount havens such as Dollar Tree and Dollar General, a great way to find the best dollar stores in your area is checking out reviews on yelp.com.

Liquidation warehouses
Most urban areas have liquidation warehouses because, in addition to high business turnover, there is a lot of pressure within the hospitality market to keep up with the latest decorating trends. Make their trash becomes your gently used room fixture.

Chicago’s Cooper Used Hotel Furniture has complete rooms from national four- and five-star hotels such as the Mirage in Las Vegas or Hotel Allegro in Chicago, according to Marian Miles, the office manager. Find steals like a complete 12-piece bedroom set from $299 to $599. In Los Angeles, Hotel Surplus Outlet liquidates high-end antique-looking items from swanky stays like Casa Del Mar, The Beverly Hills Hotel, and The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. Buying in bulk might help you negotiate a better deal, so if you don’t need 20 chairs, try going with a group of friends and split the bounty.

If your city doesn’t have a liquidation warehouse, online outlets such as overstock.com and nationalwholesaleliquidators.com often have half-priced, brand-new items — sometimes with free shipping. Plus, user ratings allow you to gauge how well the item will hold up. If you have a competitive streak, liquidation.com has an eBay-esque bidding forum. Miles says Cooper’s is currently updating the company’s Web site so customers can shop at cooperhotelliquidation.com.

The waiting game
Fallen in love with a coffee table from Crate and Barrel but don’t have the dough to get them now? If you can hold out, you could save up to 70% by waiting until the latest trends become last season’s overstock and are sent to the clearance section and outlet stores for companies such as crateandbarrel.com/outlet, urbanoutfitters.com, westelm.com, and anthropologie.com to name a few.

While shopping online is convenient, rummaging on foot gives you the advantage of checking out multiple bargain bins at once at outlet malls, while also getting a healthy amount of exercise. outletbound.com/usa50.html is a great tool for finding outlet malls in your area.

Patience is key
Just like sifting through items at the local thrift store (also a great place to find dirt-cheap digs), you might not find what you want or need on the first try. Go with the mindset to have fun, and if you happen to land the perfect end table in the process, consider it an added bonus.

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Jason Hoffman

2008-06-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 06/02/08

How long have you worked for Dr. Wax CDs and Records?
A little more than 10 years.

Do you ever slowly feel yourself turning into a John Cusack character (from the movie High Fidelity)?
Not really. John Cusack has a kind of handsome that I would describe as a fresh-faced-farm-boy-sort-of-Christopher-Reeve-by-way-of-Mr. Rogers handsome. I feel that I cultivate a more Barry White–esque funk with a touch of Levar Burton. Plus, I lick the decals!

Which part of that last question do you resent the most?
People always think I'm more like the Jack Black character! We all know that true love was on that Sticky Fingers record.

You work in a used record and video store, so tell me about your latest (and worst) finds.
We just found a pile of video CDs that have been sitting in a back room since the Clinton administration. I've been rocking Mindfield starring Michael Ironside to cure my long winter blues. But it's in Thai, so I know I'm missing something.

Who do you have a crush on? Where would you go on your dream date with aforementioned crush?
I'm brutality torn between Lieutenant Starbuck and Bob Saget! Our three-way date would involve Champagne, cake, and Battlestar Galactica. Lots of it.

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Angelica Negron

2008-06-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 05/26/08

Why did you move to the Continental U.S. from Puerto Rico? What sorts of challenges do you face being away from home?
I moved to NYC in the fall of 2006 to do my masters in music composition at New York University. It's definitely a bit overwhelming to move to such a huge city from a tiny island, but the change has been good so far. Of course, it was hard at first to catch up with the super fast pace of life and the constant rush, but you get used to it. The weather is also hard to get used to 'cause in Puerto Rico it's summer all year long.

On your latest blog, you talk about drawing music (as in line drawing). What do you mean by that? Where did you find the inspiration to "draw" music?
For me, the most important thing in composing a piece of music has always been the form and I determine that by making a drawing of the piece before I start writing notes on staff paper. Making a drawing allows me to think of the music in terms of texture, shape, contour, gesture, color, and intensity, and also helps me organize my ideas without being restricted to the limitations of traditional notation. Music for me is always tied to colors and shapes.

How many instruments can you play? What goes through your mind when composing for so many instruments?
My main instrument has always been the violin since I was little, but I also play accordion, a little bit of harp and piano, and lots of toy instruments—which are my favorites. As a composer, I think it's very important to familiarize yourself with as many instruments as possible because it helps a lot when writing for them. I love writing for orchestra because the color possibilities are endless, but I also love the intimacy that a small group of instruments convey. I feel like every piece is a microcosm of its own and the instrumentation comes after that. What you want to say with your music will tell you the medium you'll need in order to express it.

What are you working on now?
My main project right now is the electro-acoustic pop band Balún, in which I collaborate with my husband and two other friends, but I've also done two full-length solo ambient albums under the name Arturo en el Barco. In this project, I write lo-fi ambient compositions that are mostly electronic, piano, and strings based.

I'm currently working on an album of my compositions under my name, but it's a more ambitious project since it involves many musicians playing my music and lots of rehearsal time. I started with the idea of making an album of only instruments that I know how to play but I ended up wanting to add more and more instruments so the project is starting to get out of hand…

Read the article here.

Carly Fisher loves Will Shortz's crossword puzzles

2008-06-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 05/21/08

While casually sifting through Will Shortz's limited collection of only a billion other puzzle books, you might want to consider picking up this particular gem from 2002: New York Times Crosswords For Your Coffee Break.

Is my leisurely pace over the past year a reflection of my weak skills? Who knows! Either way, this book has definitely popped up during times of need. Good times to use this book include: sitting on the phone with the IRS for an hour, avoiding eye contact on public transportation, or realizing you happen to be standing next to Thurston Moore and naturally want a token of this encounter, only to unsuccessfully fumble for ten minutes for the pen you should have kept wedged in the cover and then awkwardly apologize and leave without an autograph.

Read the article here.

Carly Fisher loves doing laundry to Scott 4

2008-06-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 05/08/08

Perhaps it isn't even laundry. Maybe it's doing dishes or writing out checks that are inevitably going to bounce. Whatever the bane of your existence may be, Scott Walker's crooning vocals on his Scott 4 album somehow make the experience a whole lot better. Don't believe me? Try doing your laundry in complete silence and then surprise yourself by slipping a little Scott Walker in. I promise you won't be disappointed!

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Kathleen Neves

2008-06-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 04/28/08

Where did you get the idea for Xploited?
When I was in college, I was in the video production program, specializing in wakeboarding videos. I had a class where my assignment was to come up with my own video production company. One day, I found myself stuck in traffic, driving behind some dirty-ass truck. On the back, someone had drawn an anarchy sign with their finger in the dirt and wrote, "exploited.” I was really drawn to it for some reason, so I decided that I would use it to name my video production company. I took the "E" off and called it "Xploited.” A couple years later, in February 2007, when I decided to start my own zine, I kept the name.

You fell into debt with the release of your first zine. What sorts of complications did you incur starting a zine?
I had no idea how expensive printing a zine could be. I knew I needed to establish a readership, so I started researching and contacting other zines to do trades. Between having 600 copies of the zine printed and mailing issues out to hundreds of other zines, the printing and postage nearly killed me. When I first started the zine, I already had plenty of debt. Producing the zine put me further in the hole, but I have no regrets. Xploited is a labor of love for me.

What are your plans for your forthcoming zine?
Issue 003 is the Homeless issue. It's going to be all about anything and everything homeless. I have had all kinds of interesting submissions for this issue. San Francisco has a homeless epidemic, and I figured since I run a San Francisco-based zine, it would be a fitting topic. Issue 003 will be out for public consumption in the beginning of June.

Read the article here.

Reader of the Week: Rosemary Travale

2008-06-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 04/14/08

How long have you been illustrating? Are you able to make a living from illustration, or do you have any side projects you're working on?
I have been doing illustration full time since September 2007, shortly after I finished my B.A. in Illustration from Sheridan College in Ontario. I also like to do silk screening and bookbinding when I get the chance. One of my favorite things to do is make my own sketchbooks — that way, I can be sure to get exactly the size and papers that I want with it.

Yes, I make a living from illustration. I've found that I really have to be dedicated to working on illustration full time for it to work. When I'm not working on an illustration for a client or a gallery show, things like promotion and bookkeeping have to be done. Other stuff like managing my online store, coming up with new product ideas, and brainstorming ideas for other personal projects is also in the mix.

Where do you find the inspiration to come up with these characters? And what's with the pirate fascination?
I have the mentality that if a drawing can make me laugh, it's probably something worth spending more time on. I just like to have fun and be silly with my illustrations, which I think is really important. I like the aesthetics of 1950s-era children's books. Those probably had the biggest impact on me stylistically from when I was a kid and even still.

I really, really like pirates! Nothing beats swashbuckling adventure stories on the high seas. Plus, pirates are weird in the way that they were these loathsome, murderous, and feared group, and now they seem to be these bumbling, comical characters that act as heralds to mini putt parks. And as a kid, I always felt sort of bad for Captain Hook to be constantly annoyed by a little jerk like Peter Pan!

How do you find the balance between commercial and studio art? How do you cope with your role as an artist and an entrepreneur?
I try to work on a personal illustration a little bit every day — even if it is just something like sketching out ideas.

I have been really lucky in that I have never felt that I have had to compromise my work or myself for a client. Every art director that I have worked with has always been willing to work with me to explore the subject matter of the assignment to come up with the best solution for the illustration.

I think the role of being an artist and entrepreneur is a very symbiotic one in the world of illustration. You have to be willing to create work for yourself if no one is giving you any at the time.

What do you love best about what you do?
I think the satisfaction of creating something is what I like best. It's so rad that I make a living off of something I've always done for fun. You really just can't beat that!

Read the article here.

Carly Fisher loves TasteSpotting

2008-06-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

published in VenusZine.com on 04/14/08

Do you have a grotesque obsession with food like I do? Then you'll love TasteSpotting's daily dose of food porn from countless food blogs that offers the inspiration to cook, force a friend/significant other to do it for you, or simply drool on your keyboard. The site, which launched in January 2007, has managed to pick up quite a bit of content, which makes narrowing down a recipe both a blessing and a curse. Case in point: while trying to find a recipe for banana bread, I came across an additional 30 recipes I wanted to try. Consider it a delicious distraction from the monotony of your cereal and Ramen lifestyle.

Carly Fisher is a Venus Zine editorial intern.

Read the article here

Side note: TasteSpotting.com is defunct! Wah!

Desperate Measures

2007-12-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

published in the217.com for Buzz Weekly on 12/6/07

Winter has arrived, but sadly, I did not harvest. Push came to shove about two days before the pseudo-holiday “break,” when suddenly faced with despair from another round of bureaucratic persecution, I sought the comfort of my old friends: Ben and Jerry. Except my sweet pals bounced ages ago around the time I ran out of money and had to start living off of tears. However, wedged behind a rotting cucumber and expired carton of milk lay what could only be classified as a divine intervention: an overlooked brick of tofu that would surely be of some use.

Now, let me make this very clear: I know very little about how to prepare tofu. I have eaten tofu before and could even call myself a fan, but as it is not an essential part of my diet, I have not spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to prepare and perfect it. Hence, why it was sitting innocuously in the depths of my fridge.

Being that I know nothing about tofu, I decided to consult my roommate who is a vegetarian. He handed me an aging, tofu-specific cookbook that he has turned to once or thrice in the past during his own times of need. Flipping through the book, I found many delicious recipes—none of which I had any ingredients for.

However, I once heard a rumor somewhere that making tofu scramble is really popular with vegetarians. So, I decided to give it a whirl. Putting on my brand new gold kicks and setting my iTunes to “September,” by Earth, Wind and Fire, I lit the stove excited for my attempt at a home-cooked meal.

Slicing the brick in half, I wrapped it in paper towel, placed it on a plate and clumsily smashed a book over it, per my roommate’s suggestion. I assured myself that it looked about right and threw it in a pan with some olive oil, cumin, and salt and pepper. Being that I had nothing else to eat, I ate the entire contents of the pan. Unsurprisingly, I was hungry again an hour later.

Fortunately, my fridge happened to have a nearly finished package of shredded Mexican cheese and some stale wheat tortillas. Turning to my cupboard, I found one package of taco seasoning. It was my lucky day. Warming my tortilla and shredded cheese in the toaster oven, I prepared my remaining half-brick of tofu. Much like my tofu scramble, I dumped in the entire contents of one package of taco seasoning and mashed it around for a bit.

After awhile (maybe five or ten minutes), I became impatient and removed it from the heat. My tortilla had finished baking, so I poured the contents of the pan and half-heartedly rolled it up. As you can imagine, it was the most nauseating crap I have ever made. But I ate it all, and then proceeded to ask everyone I know how much tofu it takes to kill a person. However, when push comes to shove, always turn to my idol, competitive eater, Takeru Kobayashi, because if he can eat 63 hot dogs, it’s OK that I ate a whole brick of tofu.

Read the article here.

Etiquette For the Uncultured

2007-11-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

Published in the217.com for Buzz Weekly on 11/15/2007

Because my daddy is a truck driver and I was raised with an aluminum spoon in my mouth, I will be the first to admit that succeeding Ms. Manners has never been my destiny. After all, engaging in lowbrow activities ranging from begging to eating condiments for survival has never been beneath me (consider it an endearing product of spending a good portion of your life in abject poverty). However, as I get older and have to start pretending more often that I have class to avoid surviving off of condiments, etiquette does become a bit of an issue.

This realization became crystal clear just a few weeks ago when I had a bit of a dining faux pas while wining and dining (perhaps wining more than dining) with a curator and some visiting artists from the Springer Cultural Center at Escobar’s, an upscale Spanish restaurant in Champaign. I suppose by “a bit” of a faux pas, I mean I suffered a major embarrassment. However, much like C-list celebrity Mystery of VH1’s charming self-help show, “The Pickup Artist,” I hope to share a few pearls of wisdom so that you can still be the queen or king of your social pecking order when Lindsay Lohan-esque traumarama moments kick in.

You see, there was this piece of steak sitting just a reach away from me on the plate of a person I was dining with. After glass or three, I became more and more enamored with the idea of taking this juicy little left over. I rationalized that it would be shameful to let this finely prepared meat go to waste, which I figured was a good enough reason to elegantly stab the isolated meat and shove it in my mouth like a proper lady. Long story short, I didn’t fully chew the steak, began choking and then let out the most horrible sound as I violently threw up the undigested carcass into my napkin.

Of course, when you throw up a partially chewed piece of steak at a table at a fancy restaurant, quick thinking is in order. So, how do you go about it? The most effective method I’ve found is to simply laugh it off—but with finesse. During a time when keeping it real is the status quo, most people crave awkward moments because it’s a reflection of humility—and let’s not forget hilarity! If you’re like me and your life is constantly in shambles, this should come easily. My route is to profusely apologize and draw excessive attention to the awkward incident at hand until no one wants to talk about it—an irritation that is most likely a result of blatant disgust from having to consistently remember the atrocious sounds of regurgitated food at the dinner table.

However, this method doesn’t necessarily work for everyone. Let’s say you happen to be a burly and hardened man. Allow for an extra moment of silence while everyone contemplates what has just happened and then just let yourself go! Your vulnerability from suffering a soul crushing social anxiety will be an unexpected, but a welcomed change of pace. For the decrepit, there is no need to apologize at all! You served your country well throughout the years, most likely with an agonizing 9-5 or with service during one of the great wars. I say choke that steak right back onto the plate and pass some gas while you are at it! It’s your right as an American!

On the other hand, if you happen to be a sophisticated lady, let’s face it: you’re pretty much screwed, as your reputation will be undeniably tarnished. Then again, you probably have enough inherent manners and class that this type of humiliation would never happen to you. But if you happen to be reading this article, chances are that you have about as much or even less etiquette than I do. Ultimately, you probably don’t care too much for the opinions of those you are dining with as they will never sleep with you, let alone buy you a drink. So let your creativity and half digested food run free!

Read the article here.

Quiche For the Inept and Lazy

2007-11-10T14:08:00.002-08:00

published in the217.com for Buzz Weekly on 11/7/2007

Yesterday, I finally made quiche. For those of you who don't know what a quiche is, it's basically a delicious savory egg pie. If you don't like egg, pie or delicious things, you probably won't like quiche. Being that I like all three of these things and also since I have only been talking about it for something like six months now, I finally decided that yesterday was the day that I was going to blow off all the work I needed to do and take 15 minutes to throw a quiche together. If you're lazy like me, but have just enough motivation to procrastinate, you can make quiche too.

 How to make quiche:
1. Steal as some of your roommate's eggs and hope they don't notice. In this case, I stole four. 
 
2. Break open some of those eggs and toss them in a bowl. Throw whatever milk product you have lying around. I chose soy milk because it's all I have since milk costs something absurd like $4 a gallon now. Now whip it up like you're going to make a delicious Sunday morning scramble and place aside.  

3. I hope you had defrosted some spinach and a pie shell. You have pie shells, right? If not, you really can't make a quiche.  
 
4. Did you remember to pre-heat your oven to 400F? I bet you didn't. Better do that now if you haven't already.   

5. Chop up some cheese you have lying around. Traditionally, a good Swiss or Edam is preferred, but I only had muenster in the fridge, so that's what's goin' in the shell. Layer that on the bottom of your thawed shell. By the way, you should do that 15 minutes or so after taking it out of the freezer.  
 
6. Hey look at that, we have some tomatoes. Slice those suckers up and stick them in! Turkey bacon?! Don't you hide away in the back of that fridge edging ever-so-close to the expiration date! You step right on up! Microwave 2 slices and slice them with your only clean, dulling knife. Stick it in on top of the cheese-tomato layer.   

7. Add your spinach to your egg mixture and fill the rest of your pie shell with it. You'll probably have to spread it at this point since it will be kind of lumpy. Then, stick it in the oven. 

8. Ten minutes later, you'll be talking to your friend about your delicious quiche, wondering if you should have put garlic in it. He'll tell you, "Yes, you should have. Garlic makes everything better." You'll agree and pull your quiche out to stick in some garlic, burning your hand in the process and then put it back in.  

9. Now, preoccupy yourself with a meaningless task such as reading a Wikipedia article or three, mopping your floors or staring at your ceiling for a while until you suddenly remember you have a quiche baking. This should be maybe 30 minutes later.
 
10. Pull it out and take a small slice. You might be horrified or delighted with your attempt to make quiche.

In my case, I was pleasantly surprised, but didn't feel temptation to cut another slice as I had already filled up on hummus and pita while I waited for it to bake. Afterwards, I felt good about my efforts and also felt like a domestic champ, ready to display my home-ec skills to potential suitors. Are they lining up at the door yet? No? I'll check after I mop my floors.

Read article here.

Why Can't I Drink A Beer On The Quad?

2007-11-10T14:08:00.001-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly on 5/31/07

After several agonizing months of trekking miles through the cold, bleak winter, global warming decided to work in my favor during the equally agonizing week of finals. Pushing our despair to less fortunate places (I'm guessing ... Mississippi?), the Midwest declared, "NO MORE!" The clouds parted; the sun shone and I was finally able to catch up on a minor tan amid the throes of countless shirtless frisbee throwers and bikini bathers (I was not one of them though. I dislike competition/I'm too fat to wear a bikini).

As I lay on my blanket, disguised by some pretentious book in hopes that no one would notice that I was actually people-watching, I feel something is missing. Such an enjoyable afternoon deserves something cold and refreshing. Iced coffee? Nah. Water? Eh. Juice? Buh! Buh ... Buheer? ... Beer ... BEER! I need a BEER! That's what I need!

A deliciously cheap and malty beer would definitely satisfy me! I'll just go ... oh wait. I can't. I can't drink on the Quad because of some fascist "rules" that are trying to protect our morality.

Listen, I consider myself a responsible drinker. Okay, so maybe when I was 19 I told everyone at the gay karaoke bar that I loved them and that they were the nicest folks around. And I guess there was that time that I passed out wedged in a doorway, or on a stairway or in the middle of the floor. Who hasn't done that? I was young, impressionable and inexperienced with boozin' because that too was illegal. But now, at the ripe age of 22, I've had my fair share of spirits and feel confident that I can handle myself (I think we all know who is able to figure out which bus route to take home at the end of the night. Yeah, that's me). So why can't I open a cold one on a hot day, politely rocking out with earbuds in, as I patiently wait for a glimpse of the singing rollerblade dude?

When I first came to this University I had expectations of drinking. Not just from all of those college movies, but from the 12 bars that line Green Street, the John Belushi "College" poster that greeted me from Austin's Sportswear and the tables of beerpong set up among the five billion fraternities that the University of Illinois can credit for the largest Greek system in the nation. Why can the guy that calls me "sweetheart" and "babe" leave his red plastic flippy cups in front of his University-supported housing unit, but I can't drink a beer on the Quad? (By the way, I would fucking recycle that can too).

In Campustown it is a rarity to see children. Occasionally some school buses might show up for a play at Krannert or your professor's wife might decide to show up with their son to class to "surprise him" during the final class just as he's about to reveal something essential about your impending exam - but do we have parades? "Children X-ing" signs? The only "parade" is that of the drunken students going between bars during Unofficial St. Patrick's Day. A can of beer on the Quad is immoral, but an official unofficial holiday designed to allow students to get plastered while they're still on campus is in "good fun." This isn't hurting children or the community. You know whom this is hurting? Me.

Sure, I could take the subtler route of putting a brown paper bag over my 40 or tossing some Jack in my Coke bottle, but why should I? I already had to wait to turn 21 in order to harness 90% of my adult rights (I still gotta wait two more years to rent a car); why do I have to wait the extra hour to go home and drink a beer or pay $2 more to awkwardly sit alone in a dark, dingy bar?

The issue I have isn't just the blatant infringement on my rights as an American - No, actually that's exactly what I have a problem with. What is freedom if not to experience the joys of life on a hot summer's day? When I replaced my "No Fear" sticker with a yellow ribbon magnet on the back of my Hummer, I thought that stood for something. I am being deprived of enjoying a public space with an essential American pastime: drinking. What about the local liquor store that won't make the extra $6 because America doesn't want me to support capitalism? That's right, I said it. Drinking restrictions hurt capitalism, and no one likes a fascist.

Pane Caldo Write-Up

2007-11-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Copy for http://www.stylechicago.com/Favorites.asp?ParentID=531&ID=9439">StyleChicago.com

Glimmering, refined and one of Chicago's most treasured historical neighborhoods, there is definitely a reason why it is called the Gold Coast. As one of the finest areas in Chicago, it is also home to some of the best dining in the city as well.

Take Pane Caldo, for instance. Comfortable, yet elegant, Pane Caldo's cozy interior is decorated with warm shades of amber and blue complemented with romantic touches such as white linen and fresh flowers (note: consider reserving a window seat facing Walden St. for a more intimate evening).

Read more http://www.stylechicago.com/Favorites.asp?ParentID=531&ID=9439">here.

Bin 36 Write-Up

2007-11-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

Copy for StyleChicago.com

Sommeliers can finally say, "tcin tcin" to a restaurant that knows wine. As both a restaurant and wine merchant, Bin 36 provides knowledgeable service along with an ambitious menu of contemporary American fare.

Read more here: http://www.stylechicago.com/Favorites.asp?ParentID=527&ID=3259

Dancing for Dollars

2007-11-06T18:47:00.001-08:00

article for Advanced Reporting Class at University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana

Propping her half-naked body up against a table and wrapping her legs around the neck of a man on a Monday night, Brandy usually only has one thing on her mind: her three children.

“Sometimes you think about what groceries you need to get for the week or what bills you have to pay,” she said. “Other times you keep telling yourself to keep faking it in hopes that it will seem believable and they’ll pay more.”

Brandy, a 28-year-old dancer who prefers to be referred to by her stage name, is a topless dancer at The Silver Bullet Bar. With long blonde hair and a tan, chiseled body, she has worked for the strip club industry for the past three and a half years. However, her ultimate goal is to finish nursing school.

“The majority of us have a quota when we come in here with bills and things we have to pay,” Silver Bullet dancer Colleen Cook said. “That’s what makes it easier for us to come in and do it.”

With ages ranging between 18 and mid-forties, the dancers come to work for many reasons, but most said they hope to transition to something better. Cook, a 31-year-old dancer whose stage name is “Nadia,” has been working at the Silver Bullet on and off for the past ten years. As a mother of three girls, Cook said she enjoys working at the club because it provides her with more flexibility during the day. However, Cook said working at the club takes an emotional toll under the pressure of having to play different roles that cater to a variety of customers.

“I’m older, but a lot want the younger types. Others like having a conversation and don’t mind you showing your intelligence or your real self. Some people pay just to talk,” Cook said. “They want a counselor. They want you to sympathize and listen to their problems.”

Craig McFadden, a supervisor at SuperValu Warehouse, said he frequents The Silver Bullet 2-3 times per year, unless he is in a relationship because he considers it an infidelity. McFadden said he usually prefers to engage in small talk and tries to be as much as a gentleman as he can be with the women.

“You do try to touch, but it’s not like your girlfriend,” McFadden said. “I mean, it’s sort of a mutual thing because they need the money and well, I need…you know…”

The Silver Bullet owner, Ed Salfelder, said that this type of relationship is what makes his business successful.

“I think you will find that the dancers are just normal people needing to make money,” Salfelder said.

Located at 1401 E. Washington Street in Urbana, The Silver Bullet is open evenings on Monday through Saturday. Salfelder opened the bar in 1985 and now runs it with his wife, Tonya.

He said that the women who dance at his store are independent contractors. Making their own hours, dancers pay $20 to work at The Silver Bullet, but take home the rest. According to Salfelder, dancers usually take home $200 to $300 on most nights, but can make between $500 and $1000 in one hour for a private party. McFadden said that on an average night at The Silver Bullet, he will usually spend anywhere from $40-100.

“This is a place for them to make money. It’s fast money, but they’re well protected,” Salfelder said.

As one of only two strip clubs in Champaign-Urbana, Salfelder prides himself on what he calls a “clean business.” Abiding by the city codes restricting adult businesses to 200 feet from a residential neighbor and 1000 feet from a church or hospital, he said the problem has never experienced any controversy from the community.

Salfelder, whose father is a retired Champaign City police officer, said his club has strict rules about prostitution and drugs that he enforces having observed problems at competing institution, Malibu Club.

“You have to make sure not to let prostitution occur around your business,” Salfelder said. “The girls usually tell us when something isn’t right. If they don’t, it’s bad for their business too because they’re losing clients.”

Creating a safer environment for the women, most everyone agreed that there were rarely disrespectful customers. Jim Jones, a bouncer and doorman for the bar, said that in the three and a half years he has worked at The Silver Bullet, he has only had to lay his hands on seven customers.

“No one wants to call for bail money saying they screwed up at the strip bar,” Jones said. “Ed runs a very clean bar.”

Nonetheless, many of the dancers, such as 21-year-old Amanda Smith, try not to get too close to customers.

“It’s not really safe to give out your full name,” Smith said. “I’m very reserved. If you touch me wrong, I’m going to slap you across the face.”

Smith wears the same outfit every night because it is only one she has left: a red tube top and pair of matching pants. She said her father burned the rest of her outfits. Her parents currently think she is working as a waitress and said that she has no intention of letting them know she’s working at The Silver Bullet again.

“The money is much more substantial than waitressing. A lot more,” Smith said. “It’s kind of a, ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ sort of thing.”

Before working at The Silver Bullet, Smith was enrolled in the Marine Corps before being discharged for anxiety problems. She said she has been working at the bar on and off for the past two years because of a suggestion from her abusive ex-fiancé. Though their relationship ended two months ago, Smith said she started again as a way to get back on her feet financially in hopes of finishing her degree in radiological technology.

“Some men respect that you’re here to work, other men look at you like you’re trash,” Smith said. “What I do doesn’t define me. I’m as classy as I can be.”

Though naked in flesh, the dancers at The Silver Bullet hide the complex reasons that bring them to work. Taking a break from soliciting customers and chatting over a cigarette, the women who work at the club said they treat their job like any other profession.

“A lot of people think we’re wild women that want to take our clothes off, but we all have goals,” Cook said. “All the girls that work here are good girls.”

Al Fresco Dining in Chicago

2007-11-06T18:43:00.001-08:00

Copy for http://www.stylechicago.com/Category.asp?ID=10417">StyleChicago.com

Now that summer is just round the corner, Chicagoans can finally peel off the extra layers and enjoy warm breezes and fun in the sun along the lakeshore. Along with pleasant weather comes the much-anticipated revival of alfresco dining.

Here are some tips on how to plan the perfect alfresco dinner:

Read more http://www.stylechicago.com/Category.asp?ID=10417">here.

Chef's Table Dining

2007-11-06T17:55:00.000-08:00

Copy for http://www.stylechicago.com/Category.asp?ID=10804">StyleChicago.com

Many chefs, eager to share their culinary passion with enthusiastic patrons, have begun to offer exclusive interactive dining options or monthly chef's table programs. These programs allow patrons to relax and learn while dining on their personalized meals with the restaurant's executive chef.

As always, StyleChicago.com is looking for ways to make your search for Chicago's finest as easy as possible. For your convenience, we've done the research for you to find some of Chicago's top chef's table programs.

Read more http://www.stylechicago.com/Category.asp?ID=10804">here.

Expectations Met At Sushi County

2007-11-06T17:53:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly

Overcast skies and excessive paperwork left me with a void that needed to be filled--a void in my stomach that could easily be satisfied with food. Expanding my cultural boundaries eastward for the week, I decided to head west: to Champaign’s Sushi County. Despite an obviously poor choice in the restaurant’s naming process, I was motivated by an intense yearning for cheap Japanese food in walking distance.

This week I was joined by Sevinc Turkkan, a Comparative Literature graduate student who currently works as a teaching assistant in Allen Hall. I had received a couple of friendly e-mails from her expressing interest in accompanying me for the column. Surprised and delighted, she seemed to have qualities that would make for a great date: intelligent, worldly, an adventurous spirit for pseudo-exotic cuisine, and lacked stingy wallet syndrome, unlike my last e-mail inquiry.

I arrived a few minutes early and grabbed a photo copied menu at the front counter to read over as I waited. The interior of Sushi County had a noticeably authentic appearance of quaint halogen lighting, cozy, gray Formica tables and empty walls to match. It quickly occurred to me that this restaurant was more probably more popular for its convenient, take away service than a date restaurant. Ordering is walkup/checklist style complete with a very bored cashier, staring vacantly into space. Items on the menu are either a la carte or box style, ranging from $3.25 to $8.95.

Within moments, the restaurant began filling up with people, including the much anticipated Sevinc. A petite woman with long, curly brown hair and a big smile, she cordially introduced herself with the enthusiasm of an old friend. I immediately picked up on a charming accent, which she attributed to years as a citizen to the world. Born in Budapest, and raised in Turkey, Sevinc has inhabited several countries, and experienced the romanticized vision I barely touch in my dreams. I quickly glanced out the window at a prosaic-looking Green Street and sighed. Extraordinary experiences such as hers could produce an air of pretension, but Sevinc was very genuine. She seemed pretty non-judgmental about the bland decor surrounding us and shared my interest in deciding on an entree.

Unable to decide amongst the tantalizing options on the menu, we settled with the economically-friendly County Combo A: a maki combination platter consisting of 6 California rolls, 6 tuna rolls, and 6 spicy salmon rolls for only $7.95. The 18 pieces of sushi would be more than enough to share between two people, and would only cost each one of us a quarter more than the a la carte menu. As we paid for our items, we learned that miso soup was a complementary item for any entree purchased, and tea was only a quarter. So that was why the restaurant was so busy with college students!

The miso soup was self serve from a crock pot on the counter and the tea was self serve from a broken water cooler just beside it. Considering it lacked any actual chunks of miso, the soup wasn’t anything to complain about. After all, it was a free item. Combined with an engaging conversation about literature and my deficient immune system, the soup lasted until our entree arrived. Presented on a classy Styrofoam plate, we picked up our sushi from the front counter and divided the pieces amongst ourselves. Immediately, I noticed that the pieces were not very tight, making it difficult to grasp with my chopsticks. The sushi was pretty uninspiring, though the ginger and wasabi weren’t half bad. It wasn’t the best sushi I had ever eaten, but it wasn’t the worst either. Overall, it was filling and just what I would have expected from a place called Sushi County.

After thinking it through a bit, it occurred to me that the restaurant’s corny name was not a poor choice, but rather a fitting title for the atmosphere and quality of sushi served there. Sushi County is a great addition to the campus town restaurants because it offers cheap, mediocre sushi to poor, undemanding college students. Though dining with an interesting companion makes the experience a bit better, but I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for a romantic date restaurant. My expectations were met: I ate at a filling sushi dinner for an extremely generous price and met an interesting local as well. Sevinc’s expectations for the restaurant were the same as mine, so neither one of us felt disappointed. As a fellow poor college student, I will say that I am no different from others who are willing to sacrifice flair for price and you will most likely find me dining at Sushi County again when I need a mild cultural dining experience.

Comfort Food

2007-11-06T17:51:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly on 4/14/05

In order to prepare myself for the final basketball game last week, I did what any self-respecting fan would have done: I ate mass quantities of food. Because I loaded up on cheese, bread and ice cream the game before, I decided to skip the junk food this time and eat a real dinner. Having heard much about Red Herring’s Monday night all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet, I invited along math major, Ethan Bakshy for a little food exploration. Originally, I had intended on dining with someone else that Monday, but due to an unfortunate stingy-wallet problem, the date canceled. So, I figured I’d ask Ethan if I could move his date up a week. I was grateful that he was able to come on such short notice and was not an obnoxiously cheap, vegan grad student. Interestingly enough, Ethan loves animals--especially eating them. But he was fine with eating at a cheap, vegetarian buffet.

When I met Ethan, he was sitting alone on the curb outside the Red Herring, casually smoking a cigarette. We headed down the backstairs into the basement doorway, where we had to stand for a few minutes because the line to be served was that long. I was in no real rush to get through except for my overwhelming curiosity and a little bit of hunger. The atmosphere was pretty communal and semi-hippyish with brightly colored walls decorated with art from local artists, as well as long tables to allow for social interaction amongst strangers, which was appropriate since the Red Herring is associated with the Unitarian-Universalist Campus Center. We made our way to the front, where we were greeted by two Hare Krishnas serving several mouth-watering dishes. For only $5, we had unlimited access to 5 dishes and a delicious mango milk. The serving portions were very generous and the servers were very informative about explaining the various dishes. Also, I was delighted to learn that they were more than willing to share their recipes. But first I would need to see if it was worth it.

The menu for the week included kichani, zucchini pakora, tomato chutney and chips, cream of potato soup, and pumpkin cake. I started with the cream of potato soup, which had been seasoned with dill. I appreciated the light consistency of the soup and addition of fresh dill, countering the traditionally starchy feeling eating potatoes produces. I moved on to the kichani: a rice dish with lentils, fresh vegetables and spices. I was impressed by the unique flavors that were clearly an influence of home cooking. Very filling but definitely not heavy. It combined particularly well with the other items. The tomato chutney was a sweet medium for the vegetable chips it was served with, as well as the zucchini pakora. Pakora is a delicately pan-fried vegetable in a spiced chickpea batter. Though I am usually wary of fried foods, I thought the pakora’s fried flavor was not overbearing. Needing to cleanse my palate and take a breather at this moment, Ethan courteously offered to grab me a cup of water and mango milk. When he returned, we made some small talk about the big game and our impressions of the restaurant. Like myself, Ethan appreciates a good meal and seemed to be satisfied with his.

We ended the meal on a sweet note with the pumpkin cake. A delicious combination of pumpkin, cloves, raisins, cinnamon and nutmeg, the cake was moist and spicy. Generally, I associate pumpkin spices to be served in autumn with a cup of coffee, but this dessert was an ideal complement for the zesty meal we had just consumed. I felt full, but content. Granted, I felt a bit worse later during the game, but at least it wasn’t due to the meal. I barely even snacked, except for a little bit afterwards when I was trying to comfort myself. Thankfully, I can relive my moment of happiness now that I have the recipes in my possession and I can try them out myself. I look forward to checking out the other menu items offered for the remainder of the school year and perfecting my cooking technique as well. I was also pleased that I ended up dining with Ethan instead of some picky miser and that he enjoyed himself as well. Savory and nourishing, I thought the Red Herring vegetarian buffet was a feel-good meal at a inexpensive price. If you too happen to suffer from stingy-wallet syndrome, loosen it up and indulge $5 for delicious dining at the Red Herring.

Casual Dining At a Fine Dining Price

2007-11-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly on 4/21/05

Having spent all week ill and unsatisfied, I decided to leave my sickbed in search of casual dining and conversation at the Bread Company; my date for the evening: Lou Morton. You may recall seeing Lou featured in the artist’s corner of the Buzz not too long ago. A humble, young industrial designer, Lou has a charmingly boyish smile only a person with a shy demeanor can have. It’s just my luck that he is involved with someone else. Nonetheless, I figured I would have a good time, just so long that I kept in mind he was off limits like most of the men I encounter.

The Bread Company has a general interior of miscellaneous European knick-knacks. I enjoyed the restaurant’s use of recycled French water bottles as candleholders. Frequent candlelit dinners have provided a colorful waterfall of dripping wax, contributing to the romantic decor. It was highly appropriate for my intensely platonic date. The crowd was a bit older, probably due to the classy atmosphere and pricey menu. I saw someone dining alone across the restaurant, drinking wine to cure his loneliness. I would have joined him, but I had a date for a change, and decided to revert my attention back to him so that we could order.

We decided to split the meat and cheese platter as an appetizer. For $6.50, you can choose from a assortment of international meats and cheeses. I realized a few days later, of course, that you can purchase a quarter pound of fine cheese from any connoisseur for half that price, but I suppose people pay for their laziness. We decided to go with Sopprasata, a dry sausage, and Tintern, a cheddar blend of shallots and herbs. It arrived shortly on a plate garnished with baby greens, a sliced strawberry and a few pieces of bread. Sopprasata is extremely salty meat. Salt has a natural tendency to enhance flavors, and this meat was particularly bold. It also tends to dehydrate, causing us to flag down our waitress a few times due to the fact the water pitcher and glasses were too small to satiate our thirst. The cheese was also pretty tasty. Creamy and flavorful, the shallots and herbs give the cheddar a little bite. It was a good contrast to the salty meat, and went particularly well with the sweet bread it was served with. Though delicious, I felt the Bread Company should have offered more of a variety, or at least combination suggestions for the platter.

For a main course, my stomach was leaning towards the salmon special, but my wallet was leaning towards the $6.50 1/2 soup and sandwich combo. Lou agreed. Most of the sandwiches seemed pretty generic, except the cream cheese olive nut sandwich, so I settled with that and a bowl of Italian Wedding soup. Our waitress looked genuinely surprised when I inquired about the sandwich and seemed unable to find a good description of an item served daily there. She did suggest that I try a sandwich with a few slices of salami, so I decided to go on her recommendation. For the sake of variety, Lou went with a tuna sandwich and the mushroom-vegetable soup--another item our waitress was equally unknowledgeable about.

We waited momentarily, shooting the breeze about the restaurant, spring break highlights and his girlfriend. I ate a few more pieces of cheese when he inquired about my dating status. Fortunately, I didn’t have to search long for an excuse because our dinner arrived shortly. The presentation was pretty flattering and our plates looked nearly identical: a miniature cauldron-like bowl hugged by an open-faced, half sandwich. The Italian Wedding soup reminded me of a thicker version of the recipe served at Espresso Royale, with the same noodles and meatballs. The sandwich was a bit of a challenge. I became desperate trying to keep the sandwich together, contents spilling everywhere. Lou noticed I had food on my face, and I felt mildly embarrassed. Both the spread and the bread were appetizing, though the salami and vegetables seemed ordinary. I was surprised that the chef didn’t incorporate baby greens or fine salami for the sandwich, as the menu seemed to boast their selection of gourmet meats and cheeses. Lou commented that the entree was, “Good for the price.” Personally, I thought an evening at Panera or Espresso Royale would have been more delicious and interesting, but he was right in attesting the price was comparable.

The candle on our table burned out just as our appetites did. Overall, I was pretty unimpressed with the Bread Company. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t exceptional either. Staff was kind and semi-attentive, but generally unknowledgeable. Though we ordered an inexpensive entree, it was still a representation of the Bread Company’s menu--specialty or not. Feel free to shell out a few extra bucks, but don’t be surprised if it’s not the best thing you’ve ever eaten.

Pound For Pound

2007-11-06T17:35:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly

After saving for months for spring break, I decided to go to the wildest party city in the world. No, not Cancun—-London! Unpredictable weather and the worst currency exchange in the world may bother some people, but not me. Honestly though, there are many opportunities for fine dining and speed dating in this cultural epicenter.

So what can a naïve traveler do in London? The best option is to pick yourself up a travel guide. Because I am cheap, I bought an outdated AAA travel guide from 1998. Fortunately, I was traveling with Miss Caitlin Bergo and her companions who were smart enough to purchase 2004-2005 editions of various books. Either way, we quickly learned that travel guide or not, London offers far more than you can pack into a week.

Although the flight was only 7 hours, we lost a day and arrived on Tuesday. We booked a youth hostel in Piccadilly Circus and due to unfortunate miscommunication, we lost our reservation for the week because we did not check in Monday night. Fortunately, we used our powers of fierce sexuality combined with a touch of good luck and pathetic groveling to secure a room for the rest of the week.

Realizing that napping to adjust to local time was essentially a waste, I took the London Underground, better known as ‘The Tube,’ to Camden Town. Camden Town is a lively area located in northwest London offering a slew of pubs, alternative shops and pubs. I ended up at the World’s End: a multi-leveled pub with a delightful historical charm located conveniently across the street from the Tube. Like most pubs, the menu was limited to fish and chips and other fried food, as the main attraction is beer and social interaction. The barmaid’s usage of microwave technology to ineffectively reheat my meal was definitely worth the £5 (or 10 USD).

Conceding to the possibility that the pub food may not have tasted that great because it was from a pub, I gave Harry Ramsden’s fast food restaurant, located directly across the street from our youth hostel. Claiming to have ‘The World’s Best Fish and Chips,’ and also lured in by a £3 meal, I gave it a whirl. It had a similarity to Long John Silver’s that left me wiping the grease off my face for the next half hour. Despite the intense indigestion I experienced, I still felt it was a lot better than the St. Patrick’s Day dinner I ate at the Allen Residence Hall the week before.

At that point, I figured it would be in my best interest to stop eating fish and chips and check out the local curry houses that London is famous for. Because our youth hostel happened to be located next to Denman Street, which is filled entirely with Indian restaurants, Caitlin and I wandered into Chowki. A chic Indian restaurant in the heart of Piccadilly, Chowki offers a unique and delicious menu of monthly feasts from different regions of India. For only £10.95, you can split a hearty meal of 3 appetizers, an entrée and dessert with a friend, or if you have the financial means and luxury of refrigerator, you can take left-overs home with you.

However, this isn’t your run-of- the-mill Indian restaurant. The restaurateurs have created a trendy décor of dark wooden floors and metal accents that makes anyone feel classy. Obviously, we felt slightly embarrassed stumbling in from a day of traveling the Tube non-stop and wearing jeans, but was very attentive and friendly regardless. It took us several minutes to decide what to eat as all of the options were very appetizing. We shared the Mangalore feast, consisting of marinated prawns, lentils, spicy chicken curry, naan bread, rice and rice pudding. The presentation of the meal was particularly impressive: porcelain, interlocking, crescent-shaped dishes highlighting a colorfully artful meal. Lightly pan-fried in tamarind, cumin and coriander, the prawns couldn’t have been fresher. The lentils and spicy chicken curry were both mouth-watering and filling. Each item held a refined flavor that was delicious on its own or combined with any other item.

I was delighted that a dessert was included, but I felt I could have easily been satisfied with a main course. The rice pudding had been prepared in coconut milk, providing a sweet complement to the spicy meal we had just eaten. Warm and comforting, it was the perfect way to distract me from my bank account, which was quickly dissolving. Although the menu changes monthly, I would still recommend it based on the fact Chowki was possibly the best restaurant we ate during our trip, and maybe the most amazing Indian food I’ve ever eaten.

If you’re in London and don’t mind eating greasy pub food for the sake of an experience, I would search around before trying Harry Ramsden’s or consider skipping it entirely for an evening of fine dining at Chowki. Either way, an adventurous attitude provided me with a fantastic spring break, even if it wasn’t in Mexico.

No Luck O’ the Non-Irish

2007-11-06T17:34:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly on 3/24/05

I could hardly contain myself when I saw the table tent declaring the Allen Residential Dining Hall would serve a special St. Patrick’s Day dinner. What delights were in store? Why, everything your heart can imagine! An authentic buffet of corned beef, cabbage, rooted vegetables, fish and chips, Shepard’s pie, Irish soda bread, shamrock cookies, and last, but not least, booze---no, scratch that---brownies! Irish brownies straight from Dublin, Ireland, or maybe Dublin, Ohio! Regardless of origin, this was a special meal for a special day of holiness, or debauchery. Depends on how you look at it, I guess.

I decided to meet up with neighbor and fellow single, Natalie Smith, who shared my sentiments about the St. Patrick’s Day meal. A blue-eyed, blond haired girl about 18 years of age, Natalie is about as fresh-faced as a Noxzema advertisement. Her pouty lips and art school chic are reminiscent of a young Debbie Harry fused with an intelligentsia flair similar to Anais Nin, but less dramatic.

When we arrived, the dining hall was bustling with people. Maybe they were just as excited as we were. After all, the dining hall as an impeccable reputation for providing high quality foods. The dining hall has an interesting culture. After proceeding through a chaotic mass of students and dining hall workers, you can awkwardly try to find seating alone or with company in an intimate booth. Even better, you can try to create the largest, most architecturally complicated table, seating every person you ever met, despite the fact that distance prevents you from speaking, let alone seeing, the other side. Dining hall group coordination hasn’t been this good since Girl Scout camp.

We made our way through the buffet, grabbing samples here and there, and sat down at a table adjacent to a large crowd. Our dinner started off well enough, despite the fact I magically developed laryngitis overnight and was unable to speak. Through a series of long pauses due to one-sided conversation on her behalf, I learned that Natalie is an art student and has to face some nasty midterms. Though I couldn’t express it, I could tell we had a lot of things in common, including a hatred of germs, a love for puppies and recent disappointment. This disappointment stemmed from the realization that we consumed an atrocious meal. But why? How could this have happened?

From the first taste of the sub par corned beef to the final sip of lukewarm water, I knew in my heart I had hoped for too much. I refuse to judge a book by its cover, and had I judged this dinner by its appearance, I would have had a much more positive contribution. The corned beef, though a systematic presentation of equal cuts and coloring, tasted more like a hot dog wrapped in sandpaper than a deli item. Pepper appeared to be the seasoning of choice for the evening as rooted vegetables, boiled cabbage and Shepard’s lentil pie were covered in it. The Shepard’s pie, traditionally a meat dish, was offered as a vegetarian alternative for the evening. It consisted of what appeared to be undercooked, powdered potatoes, canned tomatoes and lentils. Unfortunately, these starchy items were probably the tastiest entrees.

The fish and chips were deep-fried to golden perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. But this was obviously a facade for the fact it was more tasteless than a McDonald’s “filet-o’-fish.” I was deeply offended that a McDonald’s entree, which costs ten times less than the dining hall, would taste better than what I ate that night. Even the international student from Britain, Niki Parr, retreated outside for a cigarette in hopes of filling the void the dining hall experience had left him. He said something along the lines of, “It was rubbish,” --- plus or minus a few expletives.
After pushing aside half my Shepard’s pie and fish, I decided to try some of Natalie’s shamrock cookies. I was really pleased that they were covered in glittery sprinkles to distract me from the flavorless matter in my mouth. They also doubled as effective method to cleanse my palate before I ended with a brownie. In retrospect, I regret not saving enough room for the brownies, as they were the only pleasant item. However, ten dollars is not warranted for a mediocre dinner and chocolate chunk brownie.

Feeling very sick, I drank several glasses of water, but nothing could erase the betrayal I felt. Normally, I find myself excited for the “special” dinners, because I expect them to be unique and satisfying. Furthermore, I felt embarrassed for inviting a guest for this engagement, as it was a reflection of my own tastes. Tsk, tsk, dining hall. Better luck next year.

Me, Myself & Microwave

2007-11-06T17:31:00.000-08:00

Published in Buzz Weekly

Due to an overwhelming stack of work and my general anti-social, lazy behavior, I decided to stay in Friday night with a microwave dinner. Motivated partially by curiosity, partially by lust for the cheese connoisseur, I hitched a ride to Euro Mart in hopes of finding an entree of gourmet quality but frugal price. Unable to decide amongst the overwhelming variety of tantalizing choices in the freezer case, I closed my eyes and stuck my hand in. I ended up with Deep Foods’ baingan bharta, a self-proclaimed, “vegetarian delight,” consisting of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, onions, peas, garlic and blended spices. Having only $5 in my wallet, I was pleased that it only cost $4.50.

My stomach, eating itself at this point, convinced me to skip the congenial small talk at the register and hurry home. As expected, I had little trouble preparing the frozen entree. Poked some holes, stirred a bit, nuked it a little more, stirred again---within minutes I had a delicious meal all for myself thanks to the conveniences of modern appliances. It smelled wonderful, but I was a bit surprised at the texture of the baingan bharta. Unlike the image on the box, which portrayed a consistency similar to a thick stew, the actual item exemplified the stereotypical microwave dinner with a soupy, semi-disappointing appearance. Maybe if it had been presented on a gold platter garnished with saffron and parsley, instead of a generic plastic box, it would resemble the display. Who knows?

Fortunately, my room was dark and comfortless enough that aesthetics seemed less important than immediate compensation for my emotional unavailability. Keeping an open mind because I had no other dining options for the evening, I set a place for myself at my desk, facing an institutional-white concrete wall, and allowed myself to indulge a little. Let me tell you, had I not been confined to the limited space between my sturdy desk and chair, it’s highly possible that I would have lost my balance and fallen to the ground. Never have I been so impressed by a frozen dinner! Was the perfect combination of coriander, ginger, salt, garlic and turmeric a result of the delicate, loving care of the New Jersey manufacturer? Or was it a stroke of luck? Either way, I was sold. I spent the next 15 or 20 minutes in sheer heaven, savoring every morsel that came into my mouth. This was definitely a couple steps up from my usual favorites of Michelina’s chili mac and Uncle Ben’s rice bowls. The marinated vegetables and distinctive blended spices created a zesty flavor similar to local Indian cuisine. Granted, it was still of microwave dinner quality, but surprisingly unique and appetizing.

The meal was more than anything I could have asked for. It exceeded my expectations from the advertised description of a “vegetarian delight.” I enjoyed it so much that I began ravenously licking the plastic container until every drop of sauce coated my tongue. My face was covered with the remnants of my meal, my stomach was full and my room smelled a little bit, but I was elated. I felt a little embarrassed afterwards for this pathetic moment of uncontrollable gratification, but then again, I was alone so I guess it really doesn’t matter.

Baingan bharta is an excellent option for anyone with dietary or monetary restrictions. Satisfying a low-calorie, low-fat, low-carb, or vegetarian diet, this salubrious entree allows neurotic health-nuts to free themselves from a night of hard work in the kitchen and pretend to be lazy like other Americans. Although it is suggested on the box that the meal would be better complemented with naan bread or rice pilaf, I felt the robust flavors were enjoyable on their own--much like myself. However, if you happen to have a romantic microwave dinner date, you can easily share the meal as the serving size is for two. Also, at the price of $4.50 a box (which tends to go on sale from time to time), you really can’t go wrong. Dietary restriction or not, the baingan bharta is a bangin’ buy worth a try.

A Burrito For Two, Conquered by One

2007-11-06T17:24:00.000-08:00

published in Buzz Weekly on 3/10/2005

Alone and starving on a bleak, Saturday afternoon, I talked my friend Allison into taking me to lunch, hoping she'd accompany me. She said she wouldn't join me, but didn't mind dropping me off somewhere in the vicinity of her errands. I settled with El Torero, a “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” find amidst the vast array of non-descript restaurants and dingy gas stations. Located in the outskirts of west Champaign (or at least what I consider to be the outskirts, since it felt like it took forever and a half to get there from my campus-town Urbana residence), El Torero is perfect for any patron with low funds and a big appetite.

When I walked in, I noticed the seating arrangement was almost entirely booths. When asked how many would be dining, I responded, “One,” with a confident tone in my voice. I was a strong, independent woman. By chance, I was seated at the awkward and lonely table in between two booths and two couples. I casually flipped through the menu and noticed how affordable lunch entrees were. Ranging between $3.75 and $7.50, I had numerous and satiating options to choose from including, but not limited to, 10 combination platters. I decided to go on my server’s suggestion of Horchata and the Burrito Loco: a foot long burrito filled with guacamole, lettuce, pico de gallo, a choice of chicken, pork or beef, and topped with a creamy, white-cheese sauce. Curious about the difference between the Burrito Loco and the Super Burrito, my waiter informed me that the Burrito Loco had rice on the inside. The other burrito? Rice on the outside.

Seconds later, I was greeted with my horchata, as well as an overflowing supply of freshly deep-fried chips and salsa. El Torero’s horchata, a rice-water drink, was a deliciously deep combination of sweet and starchy flavors with a delightful authenticity reminiscent of home cooking. Of course, not by my mother, as I am not Mexican. A nice balance of chunkiness and juiciness, the salsa was probably some of the best I’ve ever eaten. Not too spicy, but definitely not devoid of flavor. They complemented the chips perfectly. I was impressed by El Torero’s attentive staff. The Horchata was never empty and the chip basket was always full.

As I waited for my meal, I let loose the superficial interest in my menu for a moment to take in my surroundings. The Mexican scenery backed by brightly colored walls were particularly charming. Along with the proper Spanish ballad playing softly in the background, I picked up a romanticized vision of a humble village in Mexico. But don’t doubt the exciting nightlife aspect El Torero. The contrasting Corona flags and neon lights decorating the bar are a healthy reminder that you are still in a college town. I attempted to listen to my neighboring table’s conversation, but they were too consumed with the task of stuffing their faces with the Burrito Loco, compensating for their lacking communication. I felt a little relief through this encounter, as sitting by myself was a lot less uncomfortable than sitting across from someone I had nothing to say to for an hour.

As fast as you can say the name of their specialty, “Speedy Gonzales,” I was face-to-face with the notorious Burrito Loco. It was monstrous; maybe the size of my stomach. I knew I was going to be harboring something big, like a child, and let me tell you, I do not like children and especially the idea of childbearing. At the same time, I saw this Burrito as a challenge, like climbing Everest with my mouth. And boy, was I ready. I would have preferred if there was less cheese on top, but the chef’s decision wasn’t unwarranted. The creamy cheese sauce was just the right accompaniment for the sturdy and thick Burrito Loco. I was also promised rice in the burrito, but there was none. I can only assume this was because there was no space left inside the 12 inch tortilla. Although the burrito was big enough for two, I consumed the entirety as I had no one to share it with. Perhaps if I had been dining with a responsive partner, unlike the table next to me, I would have taken half of it home to share left-overs. Oh well. If life gives you lemons, magically convert them into limes and drop one into a Corona at El Torero.

Despite the rice mishap and inconvenient access from campus, the restaurant left a favorable impression on me. It’s certainly worth the effort to find the restaurant if you’re in the mood for an adventurous dining excursion, or happen to have reliable transportation options available. Whether you are dining alone or with an unresponsive partner, El Torero’s affordable and tantalizing menu will keep you delightfully distracted.