The Lakeview Taco Fest is a culinary event that starts with a warm tortilla cradling a world of flavors within. From the sizzle of perfectly grilled meats to the dance of fresh salsa and the creamy embrace of guacamole, the love of a taco is a journey through textures and tastes, a celebration of simplicity and complexity all rolled into one.
]]>
]]>
"Anticipation builds in line at Johnnie's Beef, where savory scents mingle with eager chatter, all for a taste of Chicago's iconic Italian beef."
As you embark on this exciting journey through college, remember that you're stepping into a world of new experiences, growth, and endless possibilities. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity to learn and develop skills that will serve you well in the future.
College might bring moments of uncertainty but have faith in your abilities and the hard work you've put in to get here. You're capable of achieving remarkable things, and this chapter of your life will help shape you into the person you aspire to be.
Make the most of your time on campus by not only focusing on academics, but also by exploring various interests and building connections with peers and professors. Your college years are a unique blend of learning both inside and outside the classroom.
Remember that it's okay to ask for help when needed. Whether it's seeking guidance from professors, utilizing campus resources, or turning to family and friends, there's a support network eager to see you succeed.
Stay open-minded, adapt to new situations, and remain resilient in the face of challenges. Your journey through college will be a tapestry of experiences that will enrich your life in ways you can't yet imagine.
We're incredibly proud of you and excited to see the incredible things you'll achieve. Cherish this time, stay focused, and enjoy every moment of your college adventure.
With lots of love and encouragement,
Your Uncle T.
]]>
As Chandler prepares to embark on the next chapter of his journey, I have no doubt that his exceptional achievements and remarkable character will continue to propel him towards even greater heights. His intellectual prowess, leadership abilities, and unwavering dedication to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to his future successes, whether in higher education, his chosen career path, or any endeavor he chooses to pursue.
Chandler's achievements as a valedictorian extend far beyond his academic accomplishments. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a compassionate spirit, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on his community. I am confident that Chandler's future will be filled with even greater accomplishments and that he will continue to inspire those around him with his remarkable talents and genuine character.
]]>First off, the food is absolutely fantastic. Whether you're in the mood for brunch or after dinner drinks, The Exchange has something for everyone. The menu is diverse and creative, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and dietary restrictions. The ingredients are always fresh and expertly prepared, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.
But what really sets The Exchange apart is the service. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure you have a memorable dining experience. From suggesting the perfect wine pairing to accommodating special requests, they truly make you feel like a valued guest.
Finally, the ambiance at The Exchange is just lovely. It's a cozy and intimate space that's perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The decor is stylish and modern, without feeling stuffy or pretentious. You can tell that a lot of thought and care went into creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to linger and enjoy yourself.
Overall, I would highly recommend The Exchange to anyone looking for a top-notch dining experience. The food, service, and ambiance are all exceptional, and I can't wait to return for another meal!
]]>
]]>
Other artists featured at the exhibit:
Performances by @jazstarr___
and is in conjunction with
@ewrks_ service project “Creative Access”
Proceeds from both projects raising money to help support the arts program for
]]>
St. Patrick's Day weekend in Chicago is a time when the city turns green, and the streets come alive with people celebrating the Irish holiday. On this special weekend, the city is teeming with people dressed in green, shamrocks, and other Irish-themed attire, filling the streets with an infectious energy.
Garfield Park Conservatory is a beautiful and expansive indoor botanical garden located in Chicago, Illinois. A visit to this conservatory is a truly enchanting experience that allows visitors to explore the wonders of nature in a controlled and accessible environment.
“You are the finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful person I have ever known. And even that is an understatement.”
"I go down to San Diego to surf for the weekend, and I always come back perfect."
“Fashion is a language that creates itself in clothes to interpret reality.”
"Every cliche about kids is true; they grow up so quickly, you blink and they're gone, and you have to spend the time with them now. But that's a joy."
Hair: NatashaRenee Robinson
Styled: Kesha Styles McBurnie
Makeup: DV Wright
]]>
"Children have never been very good at listening to adults, but they have never failed to imitate them."
Hair: NatashaRenee Robinson
Styled: Kesha Styles McBurnie
Makeup: DV Wright
"In our minds, youth stands for dreams, innovation, and new opportunities - or simply put, the future."
Hair: NatashaRenee Robinson
Styled: Kesha Styles McBurnie
Makeup: DV Wright
"To me, every hour of the day and night is an unspeakably perfect miracle."
]]>
http://hebrubrantley.com/eat-crap-king-a-solo-exhibition-by-hebru-brantley/
]]>I may be small, but I'm the boss!
"You be my glass of wine and I’ll be your shot of whiskey."
What can I say about 2015, a lot I guess! This year was spent taking on less projects and spending less time behind the camera. Compared to previous years, my motivation to attend so many events and find artists for creative development decreased tremendously. I felt I needed to pace myself so that I didn't start to develop any ill feelings towards my passion for photography. The life of an artist is often a tough one. There is a balance that is much needed like all things in life. I want to create as much as possible, but the creations aren't enough to sustain my lifestyle, so basically "work" has to happen to fund the movement. I have spent the majority of the year working on creative ideas, and also strategies that will increase my brand exposure. I am ready for the new year to show the world what I have learned so far. I am humbled by each and every one of you that take the time out of your busy lives, to share in a piece of mine. Thanks again! Here are a couple of shots from this past year. Enjoy.
Happy Holidays,
Philip Minefee
]]>
Model: Sara Lai
]]>
http://www.bethe-miracle.org/
]]>
]]>
Models:
Hair/Makeup:
(All photos were taken without flash for behind the scenes coverage.)
http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Host Committee:
• Jessica Larusso (Veteran - Army)
• Lonnie Rodriguez (Veteran - Navy)
• Lisa Walt (Veteran - Airforce)
• José Lopez (Veteran - Army)
• Raj Cherian (Veteran - Army)
• Alicia Roman
• Andrew Hart (Finnigan)
• Jeff Conway
• Jillian Conley
• Nishil Patel
• Peter Nicholas Stasiulis
• Vincent Anzalone
• Jordan Show
Walter E. Massey, Ph.D.
Walter E. Massey, Ph.D. is currently the President of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a post he assumed in the fall of 2010.
Monika Dixon (Owner & Founder at Monika Dixon Public Relations) & Egle Zakarauskaite
Faculty member Nick Cave was awarded the 2014 Legend of Fashion. His three segments included his original artwork known as “Soundsuits”. These suits are made of many different materials. Some are made from human hair, beads, feathers, buttons, and sequins.
The Walk 2014 showcased many fashion forward designs, and truly unique styles never seen before. Here you will find some of my favorite and most outstanding designs from the night.
Shot & Directed by: Lawrence Pearson of LXAP Productions
How would you describe your professional interests?
Anything that let's me express my personality through my work. I love doing photoshoots mainly for the fact that I always have that leeway of tweeking things to make them unique to my talents.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, and why?
I will always be a huge fan of Betsey Johnson and Jeremy Scott. They both know how to do what they love to do with passion, and I love that you can feel it through their designs.
How would you describe your style? Consider anything and everything from color to historical eras and more.
So many diverse people can only mean many diverse fashion senses.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion means self expression at the highest form!
What distinguishes a good model from a bad one?
Good attitude and fun to work with.
Describe the atmosphere when you're on a shoot. Do you play music? Do you talk with the photographer between shots?
*Carlee is currently working as a freelance hair stylist in Chicago, Il.
*Designer - Archer Townsend
http://www.archertownsend.com/
]]>I'm Skooda Chose. American rap star, lol, K-Town legend. Soon to be top 5 dead or alive!!! I spit stupid dope rhymes all the time, and hit dimes!
Professionally, what’s your goal?
To gain as much prestige as possible while simultaneously changing the world for the better!
I love the reaction I get from my work...I need n!gg*s to say I cant believe your words! <jay z voice>
How would you describe your professional interests?
Being that most of my career I haven't fit the typical fashion model measurements, my professional interest is to build a resume of great work as a model that will aid my interest in building a women's fashion brand to empower women of various backgrounds. The experiences that I've had being a proportion in between the standards, has made me pay attention to the fit accommodations in women's clothing. I hope that my example will lead more women to shine against society's boxes of what is beautiful in the fashion industry.
What's your background in modeling? When and why did you get started? Was it for the glamour? The money? Pure kicks?
I started out in h.s. at a modeling club after school. I was an artist and designer working on sets and was dared to hit the runway. Id been in heels since 6th grade and my mom is a diva, so it was nothing. Lol. During college for fashion design, I really started to pursue modeling because everyone told me I had the height and look. I found that I had a natural gift for runway. I Spent my first year of modeling doing trunk shows for department stores in downtown Chicago, and for designers coming out of the Merchandise Mart. That's where I was approached by a rep for Ford Models who suggested I submit to become one of their plus size models. I didn't get their attention the 1st 6 times I went to their office, but that's what motivated me to pursue this industry. It was not until my 7th audition, I got called into their office for a development contract. I worked with Ford for a year and a half. I completed two seasons of fashion shows, the Magic show in Vegas, and learned a great deal about the fashion industry. Since then I've worked as a freelance model for various production companies, trade shows, and a touring company.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, and why?
My favorite model of all time is Naomi Campbell because she has broken so many barriers in the industry and has proven to be absolutely timeless on the runway. Everyone loves Tyra (Banks) as their model idol, but I love her more as a business woman. She is a prime example of how to show the world that there is no barrier for what women are capable of. Tyra exudes diversity, versatility and an essential perspective. However, this new comer Kate Upton has me in awe! Im happy, that as a model with curves she exists at her level. That woman is finally giving us "MEAT" in fashion!
My favorite designer would have to be Diane Von Furstenberg. Her brand embodies the image of a strong, sexy woman with many roles to play in life. She designs for real women, not just fashion models. Others, like Zac Posen and Marc Jacobs just understands a woman's body and how women want to be sexy yet classy. Every season I always want Bebe and Louis Vuitton's entire collections.
Which fashion magazines, websites, blogs, and catalogs do you visit most often?
Im obsessed with Women's Wear Daily. I want to know what the editors, buyers and fashion Gods of the industry deem the hottess, latest, before the public. Also Vogue, W and In Style magazines. Blog wise, I like Fashion Bomb Daily and Ford Model's blogs.
Where do you generally shop?
I love target because I'm a mom, but Zara, Express, H&M ,and im also a huge thrifter. I go nuts in thrift stores. I tend to find a lot of great designer label pieces just unworn, with tags still on them. There is nothing worse than wasted fashion. Dont buy it, if you're not going to wear it. You must love or need it, lbs.
What's your fashion mantra?
"The world is your runway. So always walk tall and strut your best stuff." Lol. Something my Diva Mom has always told me.
How would you describe your style? Consider anything and everything from color to historical eras and more.
My style is a sexy but classy type. A Dorothy Dandridge meets artsy hippie. I like to mix a little classic beauty elements with my urban artist vibe.
Out of all of the photos the photographer took of you, which is your favorite and why?
Thats hard to say and not fair, I have so many, lol. Umm.. ok, Shining Armor... the whole sunrise shoot, and the Butterfly shot. All were ART. They could also be brand ads in my opinion.
What makes "Chicago" fashion unique?
Chicago fashion tends to pull from a multitude of influences. We're never just on one track, we aim to be different and have a lilttle shock value.
What advice do you have for other aspiring models?
Study your craft. Practice. Everyone has to practice. Mirror time and walking practice. It builds confidence. It shouldn't be about vanity but angels and perspective. Know how you look at every angle. Y'all can thank me later, lol.
How do you prepare for a modeling shoot?
I try to get sleep at least 8 hrs. Water, lots of water and eat a large, but healthy meal at least like 12 hours before the shoot. I will do tear sheets from magazines, help with posing ideas on the side to keep the shoot fluid. A short workout for like 30mins.
How would you describe working with the photographer?
I think we vibe well together. He's technical but will catch you in the moment from an artistic eye. It's always a pleasure working with him too because he gives you good direction when he wants something specific but lets you do you. Phil provides a great deal of balance. Fun but serious.
]]>
]]>
Featured clothing by Iridium Clothing Co. includes:
Iridium x Rik Villa Paisley T-Shirt
Perforated Leather V-Neck
Vegan Leather R-B-W Biker Sweat Pants
Leather Hexagon Pants
Twill Cotton Camo Pants
]]>
Mandel Productions along with Marco Foster
present
NEXT FASHION CHICAGO 2013
Hosted by:
- DANIELLA GUZMAN-Morning New Anchor, NBC5 Chicago
- ALICIA ROMAN-Meteorologist, NBC5 Chicago
- Marco Foster - Red Carpet Host
FEATURED COLLECTIONS:
• Tamra Ellingson
• Gary Gonzalez
• Elena Bobysheva
• Meekis
• Cleons Clothing Co.
• Sarah Church
• Niala Conte
• St. Frimpong
• Contessa Bottega
• Mira Couture
]]>
http://www.archertownsend.com/
http://www.theundergroundchicago.com
]]>
Fashion show featuring Sarah Church, RFD by Rachel Frank, Blank Nation Apparel, Allilamodie Original Clothes and Loveborne.
Hair and make-up for all the models by Adel Shaw, Louis Chevere and Sarah Pelso
Models: Kimberly Bucki, Shannon Lee, Caitlin Carani
]]>"If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun."
Asymmetrical Striped dress
The Gage Motorcycle Jacket, our Favorite Tank, and our Favorite Leggings
Printed Baseball Tee
Hoodie Dress
Striped Maxi Dress
The Gage Motorcycle Jacket, our Favorite Tank, and our Favorite Leggings
"Taxi"
Team:
Designer - Archer Townsend http://www.archertownsend.com/
Wardrobe Stylist - Tyaisha Robinson Generation Style
Hair/Makeup - Marquita Gatling-Johnson Beautiful Artistry, Carlee Marincic, Kelsey Moravec
Videography - Lawrence XA Pearson Lxapproductions
Models - Beba Georgieva, Taylor Griffin, Nataliya Govdyak, Catherine McCafferty
Photography - Philip Minefee
]]>
- Fashion Show Producer/Director: Rose Mandel, Mandel Productions
- Artistic Direction & Hair/Makeup: Adel Shaw, Spoil Me Salon & Spa
- Soundtrack by: Laura Bee
- Show MC: Jeff Conway
Fashions by:
- Cleons Clothing Co.
- Sarah Church
- Meekis
- Just Human by Yemonja Smalls
- LH Couture
Team:
MUA - Holly Pink
Model: Jax Turyna Jax
Videography: Lawrence Pearson
]]>
“CHOKE ON THAT” is an uncensored, controversial sketch comedy, straight from the mind of Jay Davis. “CHOKE ON THAT” is a culmination of real life scenarios Jay Davis has experienced over the last two years. Sketches ranging from the hilarious prank show “You’ve Been Sh***Ed On” to different awkward moment situations he has encountered. “CHOKE ON THAT” is in your face, jaw dropping, sketch comedy that is guaranteed to bring more laugh out loud moments then any DVD of its kind.
Performances by: Sean Mornroe, Comedian Spidah, B.Self, Clark Jones, Jay Washington, and Lem Slaughter. Also special appearances from the Jay Davis Show: Rashida "Buff Bay" Lucas & Marvin "M-Dubs" Phipps.
]]>
“We call it American Gypsy, because it wanders but isn’t lost. Its a tramp, you can’t get lost when you’re in love with where you are.”
Formed in 2011, songwriter/director Antony Ablan began his search for a band–a group of musicians that could handle, with grace, the wildly eclectic and dynamic changes in mood of his writing. “It was several months of working with all sorts of great players before I found the right fit. When it clicked it was so obvious to me, I knew these were the right musicians, it finally worked.”
The Band
Kedgrick Pullums Jr. // Woodwinds, Organs, Pianos, Vocals
Joseph Messing // Guitar, Vocals
Chris Palmerin // Drum Kit & Percussion
Mattie Livensparger // Organ, Percussion
Erick Memmesheimer // Percussion
Daniel Huber // Electric Upright Bass
Antony Ablan // Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Vocals, Miscellaneous
And Guest Musicians:
Anthony Moser – Background vocals on Hayward Song
Johndavid Profit // Trumpet on Song for Sweet Thing
Megan Schillinger // Background vocals on Ninas Dream
Party of Tramps // Background vocals on Gypsy Crow #3 and Gold Rush
Excerpt from http://www.antonyablan.com/about/
Elephant Painting by: Antony &The Tramps from Brian Barnhart Jr on Vimeo.
]]>
The photographs from this collection are some of the very first images produced under the "PMP" brand.
I had the opportunity to photograph Lee England Jr. in the summer of 2011, while he was street performing at the Taste Of Chicago. If you have never heard him play his violin, you are truly missing something special. His dedication to his craft is heard in every song that he plays. Over the years I have watched him grow as an artist. The first time I heard him play was in the student center at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale). He had a crowd of people standing around him, calling out random songs, as he played each one by either memory or ear. The feat was remarkable, because it was all done by one man and one violin. In the years thereafter, I have watched him share the stage with countless musicians. I have the pleasure to call him a friend, and watching his climb in the music industry is definitely an inspiration to me and my work.
Lee England Jr. on the violin
Lee England Jr. on the violin
]]>
Young Chop is a record producer from Chicago, Illinois, who is signed to Warner Bros/Chappell and Glory Boys Entertainment. 8TMG is Young Chops' label imprint. His artists include: Johnny May Cash, Rampage, YB, King Rell, King James, Roland Green, Louie Baggz, Starso Bangz, and Da Famous Lil Dave. Johnny May Cash, is releasing his first mixtape in the summer of 2013. He has appeared on songs such as "Louie Gucci" by Chief Keef, "Nothing" by Lil Reese, and "Trust None" by Chief Keef. Their debut mixtape entitled Young Chop Presents 8TMG, was hosted by DJ Victoriouz. Young Chop plans to drop another collective group project that is currently untitled.
http://indy.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/19966/young-chop-presents-8tmg.html
Young Chop - Notable Production Credits
Chief Keef - Back From The Dead
Finally Rich (Love Sosa (with Dougie), Hallelujah, I Don't Like, Hate Bein' Sober (with 50 Cent & Wiz Khalifa), 3Hunna, Finally Rich, Kobe)
King Louie - Showtime (Pack So Loud, Want It All, Rap S#!+)
Gucci Mane - I'm Up (Super Cocky)
Ace Hood - Body Bag 2 (Yeen Bout Dat Life)
Starvation 2 (Root of Evil (intro), Fu(k Da World, MOB ft. Choo Choo
GOOD Music - Cruel Summer - I Don't Like (Remix) (with Kanye West, The Twilite Tone, Noah Goldstein)
Soulja Boy - Juice II (1000)
Young & Flexin (Foreign Cars)
Big Sean - Hall of Fame - (Guap, Mula)
Detroit - Woke Up
French Montana - Mac & Cheese 3 (Ocho Cinco, Yayo (with DJ Spinz), Hatin On A Youngin, Devil Want My Soul)
Pusha T - Wrath of Caine (Blocka)
Cassie - RockaByeBaby (Turn Up ft. Meek Mill)
*Special thanks to BIG BEN STAXX
https://www.facebook.com/ITSSTAXX
https://twitter.com/DJBIGBENSTAXX
Instagram @djbigbenstaxx
]]>
]]>
]]>
]]>
Special Thanks to the Team:
Videography: Lawrence Pearson
Reptiles and Fox:
Vino Vendettareptiles Thekobracommander
Hair and Makeup:
Marquita Gatling-Johnson of Beautiful Artistry
Models:
]]>
Marisa Buchheit
Kiara Lanier
Jax Turyna
Mel Montesi
Dominique Jordan
]]>
Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.
Special Thanks to the Team:
Videography: Lawrence Pearson
Reptiles and Fox:
Vino Vendettareptiles Thekobracommander
Hair and Makeup:
Marquita Gatling-Johnson of Beautiful Artistry
Models:
]]>
Having a baby is like falling in love again, both with your husband and your child.
*Photography & Video Production by Philip Minefee Photography
]]>“A perfect example of minority rule is a baby in the house.”
Video shot and edited by:
LXAP Productions
Special Thanks:
MUA - Holly IaintThru Pink
Hair - Carlee Marincic
Model - Rachel Williams
Model - Jacquelyn Mitchell
]]>
]]>
Hebru Brantley -
]]>
Damn, it’s been a long time since we’ve heard a new project from Skooda. But stress not, the Chosen One is back. He’s set to drop his forthcoming opus, Vulture Kulture, at the top of February. I’m told there will be videos and leaks in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for the return. Today we have the cover art. Check it out above.
*Excerpt from http://www.fakeshoredrive.com/2012/12/cover-art-skooda-chose-vulture-kulture.html/
]]>Chicago native, J. Hollins is highly respected amongst his peers for his ability to masterfully fuse the traditions of rock, gospel, funk, hip-hop, blues, and soul, all while keeping his lyrics fresh and reflective. He has worked with a number of industry heavyweights including, Grammy award-winning singer Mary J. Blige and Grammy-nominated producer Chucky Thompson. After much success in the UK as a writer, J. Hollins stepped away from a lucrative deal with a major recording company to release his first full-length solo album, The Chronicles, in 2005. Despite the album not reaching mainstream success, J.Hollins captured a faithful audience that resulted in unbelievable sales for an indie artist. In 2010, he released his second album, The Soul Renaissance LP. The album produced a number of radio hits, including Toast and the international smash Because of You. J. Hollins is now poised to release his next project This is Me Volume II. J. Hollins first offering from This is Me Volume II is a string, bass drum driven, heartfelt hip-hop and r&b hybrid titled, Me and My Pen; produced by Carlos Wilder. Me and My Pen will be available on iTunes, Amazon and everywhere digital music is sold November 27, 2012. This is Me Volume IIis slated for release in 2013.
]]>
Live a good life and it will be easier to explain...
Artwork by Hebru Brantley
Artwork by Hebru Brantley
Artwork by Jennifer Cronin
Artwork by Hebru Brantley
]]>
The Team:
MUA - Holly IaintThru Pink
Hair - Carlee Marincic
Model - Rachel Williams
Model - Jacquelyn Mitchell
Videography - LXAP Productions
]]>
Some pain experts are now advising that physicians recommend cannabis therapy in addition to or in lieu of opiate medications to "reduce the morbidity and mortality rates associated with prescription pain medications.
]]>
Have you ever seen a butterfly with a nose ring? This was the first time I have had such an encounter.
Award for most menacing looking butterfly goes to..........
Have you ever seen a butterfly smile?
one of the Premier rappers in the windy city of Chicago, is blazing his way to worldwide stardom. His tales are the perfect balance of street life in America, as well as shout outs to events and people from history. His intelligence is clearly evident in his lyrics. For example on the song “Heir Chose” off of his highly acclaimed TFM2, he use statements like “…nothing surprise me, four words, come at me wisely”. In the same song he says “like Lenin to the Bolsheviks (The Bolsheviks, founded by Vladimir Lenin), know what I am so I boast of it, liquor pour toast of it”. This young mans’ wit and wordplay is truly a gift, and his catalogue is definitely worth a thorough listen.
]]>
Beauty is not caused. It is.
Henry J. Kaiser
]]>
