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Discover Horner Park Chicago: A 55-Acre Urban Oasis

Perhaps overlooked yet nestled in Chicago’s Irving Park neighborhood, Horner Park welcomes all. Community engagement and a love for green spaces come together in perfect harmony at this charming city park. Imagine spending the day in a sprawling oasis that offers something for everyone – from thrill-seekers to nature lovers. Whether you love sports, nature, or just want a peaceful retreat from the city, Horner Park Chicago has something for you.

Stepping into Horner Park, you’re greeted by expansive greenery. Discover your new favorite hangout in the park, where big open spaces and Activity Central wrap around each other like old friends. From well-maintained sports fields to serene natural areas, every corner invites exploration and enjoyment.

Table Of Contents:

A Hub for Sports and Recreation

Horner Park Chicago is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, boasting impressive facilities for various athletic pursuits. According to the Chicago Park District , the park features:

  • Nine softball fields
  • Two football/soccer fields
  • Four basketball courts
  • Five tennis courts

These facilities are hubs of activity year-round. Courts and fields teem with activity as locals gather for friendly competition, pickup games, and solo practice sessions. The variety of sports options ensures there’s always a game to join or a new skill to learn.

Night Baseball: A Community Tradition

Horner Park Chicago is unique for its night baseball facilities. Three senior baseball diamonds have lights, allowing evening games that extend playing hours and create a magical atmosphere. Local baseball leagues have fallen in love with Horner Park, and it’s easy to see why – the league’s strong community of players and fans is built around this fantastic feature.

Nature’s Retreat in the City

Beyond sports, Horner Park Chicago offers a remarkable natural area that contrasts with the manicured playing fields. Stepping into this natural area, the calming atmosphere immediately envelops you, making it the ideal spot to re-center and recharge.

You’ll find an undeniable sense of calm at Horner Park Natural Area, where the beauty of the great outdoors shines bright. Tucked away, a quiet marvel is waiting for someone to stumble upon its charm.

Wedged between urban landscapes, Horner Park Natural Area preserving 13 acres of unbridled nature within city limits. In this rejuvenated prairie land and oak savanna, every bend in the trail promises a new visual feast for visitors to savor.

As you wander along the half-mile of trails, you’ll encounter:

  • Native wildflowers
  • Indigenous shrubs and trees
  • A diverse array of wildlife, including butterflies and migrating birds

This natural oasis is both beautiful and ecologically significant. This deliberate makeover has upgraded the urban jungle, furnishing critical oases for unsuspecting critters, from feisty raccoons to wily hawks, seeking refuge and feasting on abundance. One key way urban parks benefit the environment is by actively conserving it.

Community Involvement in Conservation

Community involvement is key to the natural area’s success. Since 1994, Riverbank Neighbors has invited residents to help maintain this precious ecosystem. By reclaiming their natural heritage, community members have unwittingly stumbled upon something far greater – a sense of purpose, created by working hand-in-hand to safeguard the land that has come to define their collective identity.

A Park for All Seasons

Horner Park Chicago comes alive year-round, each season bringing unique charm and activities. Two can’t-miss events stand out on the park’s calendar: a seasonal pumpkin patch and a paws-itively entertaining Easter egg hunt, geared to get visitors in the mood for fun and games.

Spring: Renewal and Recreation

As the weather warms, Horner Park flourishes. The natural area bursts with color as wildflowers bloom, and the sports fields fill with players. This park is the place to be, clearly a fan favorite. A dog park is where community happens – paws Scrabble-mix on the grass, exhausted dogs curled up in the shade, and conversations that forge lifelong friendships between their human companions. As the thermometer rises, canines and their companions revel in the mild weather, beckoning a surge in outdoor activity.

Summer: The Heart of Activity

Summer is when Horner Park Chicago truly shines, becoming a hub of community activity. Saturday mornings at the park are reserved for the vibrant farmers market, just one of many events that bring the community together.

Embedded in local lore since ’85, the John O’Connell Summer Concert Series continues to orchestrate unforgettable nights under the stars, beckoning music lovers from near and far to experience the buzz.

Fall: A Tapestry of Colors

As summer transitions to fall, Horner Park transforms into autumnal hues. With nature’s transition to warm colors, the open area suddenly gains a serene charm, turning it into a hot spot for taking slow walks and sharing bountiful picnics. With the cooler weather comes a cherished fall ritual – the park’s pumpkin patch festival, where the excitement is palpable and family memories are made.

Winter: Serene Beauty

Even in winter, Horner Park Chicago remains a destination for outdoor recreation. Break out the hot cocoa and hand warmers – winter’s blanket of snow has turned the great outdoors into a winter sports haven, where enthusiasts of all ages can speed down hills on sleds or trek through the powder on snowshoes.

Imagine vibrant festivals, lively traditions, and a shared sense of belonging – that’s the magic we’re dedicated to creating.

There’s more to Horner Park than swings and slides – it’s a dynamic hub where families, artists, and activists coalesce, reflecting the multifaceted essence of Chicago’s urban soul. Age is just a number at the park, where kids, teens, adults, and seniors can all find their own brand of fun.

Honoring Native American Heritage

In 2018, Horner Park hosted Riverfest, an event that honored Native American culture . The park’s dedication to honoring the area’s rich Native American history was on full display during this festive occasion.

Buried within the park’s scenic landscape lies an emerging narrative, alive with the poignant moments, triumphs, and struggles of Native American people, waiting to be uncovered by curious visitors through an inspired art project. According to the Chicago Tribune , an artist is creating an effigy mound resembling a coiled snake. This installation will be part of the Northwest Portage Walking Museum, joining a similar mound in Schiller Park.

The artist, Santiago X, told the Chicago Tribune, “As far as this earthworks project, it’s an opportunity for our communities to build some beauty and create spaces that celebrate a coming together to create more equity; to elevate the voice of the ancestral peoples, the presence of Indigenous peoples together—because we’re not doing it alone.”

Community-Driven Improvements

Community involvement drives Horner Park Chicago’s ongoing evolution. From upgrading facilities to simply sprucing up the scenery, the Horner Park Advisory Council has dedicated itself to elevating the overall park experience since its inception in 1988, all to ensure a better tomorrow for this cherished community hub. It’s a regular powwow at the Horner Park fieldhouse, where locals congregate monthly to dish out concerns, brainstorm, and watch their community take shape.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Horner Park Chicago is designed to be accessible. Here’s what you need to plan your visit:

Location and Directions

The park is at 2741 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618. It’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to get to. If you’re using public transportation, visit www.transitchicago.com for route information. For driving directions, use this link .

Park Hours and Facilities

Horner Park is open daily from 6am to 11pm. The park’s got all the essentials and then some, featuring:

  • Picnic groves
  • Playgrounds
  • Public restrooms
  • Drinking fountains

For more about park facilities and programs, visit the official Chicago Park District Horner Park website .

FAQs about Horner Park Chicago

What is the history of Horner Park?

Horner Park was established in the early 20th century as Chicago created more green spaces. It’s named after Henry Horner, Illinois’ first Jewish governor (1933-1940). As the neighborhood has grown, so has the park – adapting to meet the evolving needs of the people who call it home.

What are the demographics of Horner Park?

Horner Park is in the Irving Park neighborhood, known for its diverse population. A hearty blend of families, young career-builders, and folks who’ve seen it all come together in this neighborhood, mirroring the patchwork cultural fabric that makes Chicago so special.

What is Edison Park known for?

While this question is about Edison Park, not Horner Park, it’s worth noting that Edison Park is a Chicago neighborhood known for its small-town feel. Occupying a prime spot in the urban landscape, Horner Park wows visitors with its substantial open areas and sensational recreational opportunities.

How long is the Horner Park Loop?

The main loop trail in Horner Park is about 1.5 miles long. Circle the park on this inviting path, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a fun bike ride. Amidst the sprawling natural area, a network of shorter trails beckons, promising a richer, more grounded experience.

The final stretch! Having made it this far, let’s recollect the key points that mattered most and get ready to move forward with confidence.

At Horner Park, the boundaries between recreation, nature, and community blur, creating an urban oasis where Chicagoans can connect, unwind, and engage with their surroundings. Imagine a place where jogging trails border lacrosse fields, and playgrounds blend seamlessly into wooded areas – welcome to the park, where the great outdoors await! You can play softball, enjoy the farmers market, or relax and watch the seasons change.

Horner Park’s pulse beats strongest in its community spirit, where neighbors become friends and memories are made. Constantly updating its vibe, this park stays on the move while holding on to its heritage. Step into Horner Park and trade in the concrete jungle for a refreshing dose of nature, no matter if you call Chicago home or are just passing through. In the midst of concrete and steel, there’s a peaceful retreat waiting to be found – give it a chance, and it might just become your Chicago sweet spot.

Discover Horner Park Chicago: A 55-Acre Urban Oasis Read More »

free bitcoin in chicago

Democrat Convention Chicago

1. Introduction to the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024

The Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 promises to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of the party. As one of the most significant gatherings in American politics, the convention will bring together party leaders, delegates, activists, and supporters from across the country to discuss key themes, propose policies, and strategize for upcoming elections. With Chicago serving as the backdrop, a city rich in political history and activism, the convention will not only showcase the Democratic Party’s vision for a more inclusive and progressive future but also provide a platform for influential speakers and attendees to engage in critical discussions. In this article, we will delve into the major highlights, ideas, and implications of the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024, exploring its impact on the party and the broader political landscape.

1. Introduction to the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024

Overview of the Convention’s Purpose and Context

Welcome to the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024, where politicians, enthusiasts, and meme-makers alike gather to discuss, debate, and decide the future of the party. This grand event serves as a platform for the Democratic Party to showcase their vision, strategies, and policies leading into the upcoming election. It’s like Comic-Con, but with more suits and slightly less spandex.

Historical Significance of Chicago as the Convention Venue

Chicago, the Windy City, has a rich history in hosting Democratic Party Conventions. In fact, it has become somewhat of a tradition, like eating pizza or passionately debating which sports team reigns supreme. Chicago has witnessed memorable conventions throughout the decades, from the spirited clash between Kennedy and Humphrey in 1960 to the unforgettable nomination of a certain Illinois senator named Barack Obama in 2008. So, get ready to make some political history here in the city that knows how to handle debates better than anyone.

2. Key Themes and Agendas of the Convention

Prominent Policy Issues on the Agenda

At the heart of this convention lie the pressing policy matters that have captured the Democratic Party’s attention. Expect lively discussions on healthcare, immigration, gun control, and income inequality. We’re not just talking about dry policy debates, folks. Get ready for some passionate speeches, persuasive arguments, and enough statistics to make your head spin faster than a politician’s promises during campaign season.

Focus on Social Justice and Equality

If there’s one thing the Democratic Party convention is known for, it’s championing social justice and equality. This year, expect passionate speeches on racial injustice, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and the fight against discrimination. The convention floor will be bursting with advocates, activists, and people who just really like cheering for a good cause. It’s all about pushing for a fairer and more inclusive society, and maybe picking up some catchy protest chants along the way.

Emphasis on Climate Change and Environmental Policies

Mother Earth is getting some major love at this convention. Climate change and environmental policies will be hot topics (pun absolutely intended). From tackling carbon emissions to promoting renewable energy, expect to witness some fiery debates on how to save our planet. And who knows, maybe some politicians will even show off their solar-powered suits. Okay, we’re kidding about the suits, but not about the urgency of addressing this global challenge.

3. Notable Speakers and Attendees at the Convention

Headliners and Keynote Speakers

Prepare to be entertained, inspired, and possibly a little starstruck by the lineup of headliners and keynote speakers at this convention. From seasoned politicians to rising stars, you can expect to hear captivating speeches from influential figures who will rally the crowd, leave you in awe, and make you contemplate applying for a career in politics. It’s like attending a motivational speaking event, but with more debate club vibes.

Representatives from Diverse Political Backgrounds

The Democratic Party prides itself on being a big tent, and this convention reflects that diversity. Attendees will include representatives from various political backgrounds, ranging from progressive firebrands to moderate voices. It’s like a political buffet where you can find something to suit your political taste, whether you prefer spicy policy proposals or a milder, consensus-driven approach. So, get ready for some lively discussions and the occasional political fireworks.

Celebrities and Influential Figures in Attendance

You never know who you might bump into at this convention. From Hollywood stars to influential activists, celebrities will be making appearances to lend their support and glamour to the event. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to your favorite actor or exchanging ideas on climate change with a famous environmentalist. Just remember, act cool, because there’s no red carpet to save you from an awkward fan moment.

4. Policy Proposals and Platform Discussions

Debates and Decision-making Processes

Behind the scenes, policy wonks and strategists will engage in heated debates and decision-making processes to shape the Democratic Party’s platform. Think of it as a high-stakes game of political chess, with policy proposals serving as the moves. These discussions will determine what the party will stand for and how they plan to tackle the issues most important to the American people. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and watch democracy in action.

Progressive Policy Proposals

For those who prefer to think outside the box and challenge the status quo, the Democratic Party convention will not disappoint. Progressive policy proposals will be flying left, right, and center. From universal healthcare to ambitious climate action plans, the convention will be a breeding ground for innovative ideas that aim to address the complexities of our modern society. So, get ready to witness the collision of tradition and progressivism.

Inclusion of Various Stakeholder Perspectives

The Democratic Party believes in the power of diverse voices, and this convention aims to gather perspectives from different stakeholders. Whether you’re a union leader fighting for workers’ rights or a small business owner with big dreams, your voice matters. Policy discussions will include input from a wide range of individuals, creating a platform that represents the concerns and aspirations of the American people. After all, democracy is all about making sure everyone has a seat at the table.

5. Electoral Strategies and Campaigning Efforts

Strategies for Engaging and Mobilizing Voters

Getting voters excited and engaged is no easy task, but the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 proved that it can be done. From high-energy rallies to innovative digital campaigns, the party employed various strategies to reach out to voters and get them to the polls. Whether it was using social media influencers, organizing grassroots canvassing efforts, or hosting community events, the convention showcased the party’s commitment to connecting with voters on a personal level.

Outreach to Marginalized and Underrepresented Communities

The Democratic Party has long championed inclusivity and diversity, and this convention was no exception. Recognizing the importance of marginalized and underrepresented communities, the party made it a priority to listen to their needs and include their voices in the political discourse. Through targeted outreach programs, forums, and policy discussions, the convention fostered a sense of belonging and created a platform to address the specific concerns of these communities.

Collaboration with Local Democratic Parties and Activists

One of the keys to a successful convention is collaboration, and the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 exemplified this. Working alongside local Democratic parties and activists, the national party was able to tap into local knowledge, grassroots networks, and on-the-ground expertise. This collaboration resulted in a stronger, more united party and helped bridge the gap between national and local politics.

6. Highlights from the Convention: Key Moments and Events

Speeches and Rousing Moments

The convention was filled with memorable speeches and rousing moments that left attendees inspired and energized. From passionate keynote addresses to powerful testimonials, the speakers at the convention delivered messages that resonated with the values and aspirations of the Democratic Party. These speeches not only showcased the depth of talent within the party but also provided a roadmap for future campaigns and policy initiatives.

Special Performances and Cultural Events

Adding a touch of entertainment to the convention, special performances and cultural events were held throughout the gathering. From musical performances to dance showcases, these events brought a sense of joy and unity to the convention floor. By celebrating the diversity of the party and embracing arts and culture, the convention fostered a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Exhibitions and Showcasing of Party Achievements

The convention also served as a platform to showcase the achievements and progress of the Democratic Party. Exhibitions highlighting successful policy initiatives, community projects, and the accomplishments of party members offered attendees a tangible reminder of what the party stands for and what it has achieved. This not only instilled pride among party members but also served as a persuasive tool for undecided voters.

7. Impact and Implications of the Convention on the Democratic Party

Potential Influence on Party Unity and Cohesion

The convention played a crucial role in fostering unity and cohesion within the Democratic Party. By bringing together party members from different backgrounds and viewpoints, the convention provided a platform for dialogue, understanding, and compromise. This collective experience helped bridge ideological divides and strengthen bonds, making the party better equipped to face future challenges.

Reception and Perception by the General Public

The convention’s impact on the general public cannot be underestimated. Through extensive media coverage and social media engagement, the convention reached millions of people, many of whom may not have been actively involved in politics. The positive reception and perception of the convention helped shape the public’s view of the Democratic Party, portraying it as an inclusive, forward-thinking force to be reckoned with.

Effects on Future Fundraising and Support

A successful convention is not only measured by its immediate impact but also by its ability to generate long-term support. The Chicago convention proved to be a significant fundraising opportunity for the Democratic Party, with enthusiastic supporters contributing generously to the cause. The event’s positive atmosphere and inspiring speeches motivated donors to open their wallets, ensuring the party’s future financial viability.

8. Future Prospects and Reflections on the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024

Implications for the 2024 Presidential Election

The Democratic Party Convention in Chicago set the stage for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. By showcasing the party’s values, engaging voters, and uniting its members, the convention laid the foundation for a strong, strategic campaign. The momentum and enthusiasm generated at the convention will undoubtedly influence the party’s choice of candidate, messaging, and electoral strategies in the race for the White House.

Lessons Learned and Areas for Improvement

While the convention was a resounding success, it is important for the Democratic Party to reflect and learn from the experience. Identifying areas for improvement, such as streamlining logistics, enhancing diversity in representation, and strengthening community outreach, will ensure that future conventions continue to build on the party’s successes.

Long-term Legacy and Influence of the Convention

The Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 will leave a lasting legacy. The connections made, policies discussed, and enthusiasm generated will reverberate through future elections and policy debates. The convention’s influence will extend beyond party lines, inspiring individuals to engage in politics, and shaping the trajectory of progressive movements for years to come.In conclusion, the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the party and its future trajectory. Through robust policy discussions, inspiring speeches, and the collective energy of its attendees, the convention will shape the Democratic Party’s platform and electoral strategies for years to come. As we reflect on the convention’s highlights and consider its implications, it is clear that this gathering represents a pivotal moment for the party, setting the stage for the upcoming presidential election and influencing the direction of American politics. With Chicago serving as the backdrop to this historic event, the Democratic Party Convention in 2024 will be remembered as a significant milestone in the pursuit of a more equitable and progressive future for the nation.

FAQ for the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024

1. Who can attend the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024?

The Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 is a closed event, primarily attended by party leaders, delegates, elected officials, and invited guests. However, certain portions of the convention may be open to the public, typically through ticketed events or special access passes.

2. What are the key objectives of the convention?

The primary objectives of the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 are to discuss and shape the party’s platform, propose policy initiatives, and strategize for upcoming elections. The convention also aims to foster unity within the party, inspire grassroots activism, and engage with the broader public to convey the party’s vision and values.

3. How are speakers selected for the convention?

Speakers for the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago 2024 are typically chosen by party leaders and organizers. The selection process involves considering a mix of influential figures, elected officials, community leaders, and representatives from various constituencies to ensure a diverse range of perspectives and to highlight key policy priorities and campaign strategies.

4. What is the significance of holding the convention in Chicago?

Chicago has a rich political history and has been a prominent hub for activism and social movements. By choosing Chicago as the convention venue, the Democratic Party aims to tap into the city’s legacy of progressive politics and civil rights activism. Additionally, holding the convention in Chicago allows for greater accessibility and visibility, attracting a diverse range of participants and ensuring significant media coverage of the event.

Democrat National Convention 2024

things to do in chicago

The main event for the Democrats heading into the 2024 election.

Event Meta
Name
United Center
Event Status
Scheduled
Start Date
August 19, 2024 7:52 am
End Date
August 23, 2024 7:52 am
Event Location
Attendance Mode
Offline
Street
1901 W Madison St
Postal Code
60612
Locality
Chicago
Country ISO Code
Region ISO Code
IL

Democrat Convention Chicago Read More »

Oddisee does what he wants on the polished new album To What End

Oddisee is aging like fine wine, becoming a producer-rapper’s producer-rapper. Two decades into his career, the native of Prince George’s County, Maryland, still doesn’t care about mainstream popularity—as long as he can feed his family off his music, fame isn’t important. This doesn’t mean mainstream accolades aren’t apropos; his big music is innately hip-hop, but the way he infuses it with elements of genres such as soul, R&B, and go-go makes it more expansive and widely relatable. From his early days with D.C. rap trio Diamond District through his widely heralded solo projects (such as 2011’s Rock Creek Park mixtape), and including his production work and killer live band, Oddisee has always been far above average. And in the spirit of Pharrell and the oft-troubled Ye, Oddisee has the vision and skills to do whatever he wants with music, because his music is just that good. He touts fierce independence, sociopolitical commentary, and intelligent, layered introspection over bright production. 

Oddisee’s latest record, To What End (his second project with Outer Note), continues on that path. The album is so polished that even when some of the choruses falter, the powerful verses and dynamic instrumentation are strong enough to create balance. The orchestral opener, “The Start of Something,” floats in knowing and proud, with Oddisee declaring that you “can’t appreciate the winnings, never learning loss.” Philadelphia rap icon Freeway provides his signature “rah-rah” to the driving bass of “Ghetto to Meadow” and surprisingly meshes with Oddisee’s mellifluous veteran’s flow. To What End shows Oddissee’s knack for bringing together incredible talent; “Choices” is a melodic bed of roses with great verses from Little Brother’s Phonte, British rapper and producer Kay Young, and singer BeMyFiasco. If Oddisee never blows up, that’s OK. His family is fed, and his music is so good it feels universal.

Oddisee’s To What End is available through Bandcamp.


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Oddisee does what he wants on the polished new album To What End Read More »

Oddisee does what he wants on the polished new album To What EndCristalle Bowenon January 23, 2023 at 6:00 pm

Oddisee is aging like fine wine, becoming a producer-rapper’s producer-rapper. Two decades into his career, the native of Prince George’s County, Maryland, still doesn’t care about mainstream popularity—as long as he can feed his family off his music, fame isn’t important. This doesn’t mean mainstream accolades aren’t apropos; his big music is innately hip-hop, but the way he infuses it with elements of genres such as soul, R&B, and go-go makes it more expansive and widely relatable. From his early days with D.C. rap trio Diamond District through his widely heralded solo projects (such as 2011’s Rock Creek Park mixtape), and including his production work and killer live band, Oddisee has always been far above average. And in the spirit of Pharrell and the oft-troubled Ye, Oddisee has the vision and skills to do whatever he wants with music, because his music is just that good. He touts fierce independence, sociopolitical commentary, and intelligent, layered introspection over bright production. 

Oddisee’s latest record, To What End (his second project with Outer Note), continues on that path. The album is so polished that even when some of the choruses falter, the powerful verses and dynamic instrumentation are strong enough to create balance. The orchestral opener, “The Start of Something,” floats in knowing and proud, with Oddisee declaring that you “can’t appreciate the winnings, never learning loss.” Philadelphia rap icon Freeway provides his signature “rah-rah” to the driving bass of “Ghetto to Meadow” and surprisingly meshes with Oddisee’s mellifluous veteran’s flow. To What End shows Oddissee’s knack for bringing together incredible talent; “Choices” is a melodic bed of roses with great verses from Little Brother’s Phonte, British rapper and producer Kay Young, and singer BeMyFiasco. If Oddisee never blows up, that’s OK. His family is fed, and his music is so good it feels universal.

Oddisee’s To What End is available through Bandcamp.


Read More

Oddisee does what he wants on the polished new album To What EndCristalle Bowenon January 23, 2023 at 6:00 pm Read More »

Squirrel Flower braces herself for love’s unbridled force on new single “Your Love”

Ella Williams, the Massachusetts-born musician who makes music as Squirrel Flower, released her first EP, Early Winter Songs From Middle America, while attending Grinnell College in 2015, and she’s been steadily touring ever since. After graduation, she moved back to Boston to make her way in the DIY scene, and she soon turned heads with stunning back-to-back albums, 2020’s I Was Born Swimming and 2021’s Planet (i), both released through Polyvinyl. She moved to Chicago in 2021, and since then she’s seamlessly settled into the city’s tight-knit music scene, even joining tours with local bands, including Tenci, Mia Joy, and Whitney. Squirrel Flower’s latest single, “Your Love,” is a full-band reimagining of the softer, more stripped-down track “Your Love Is a Disaster” from last year’s Planet EP. Here, Williams steadies herself against the sharp gut punch of new love, her voice careening over fuzzed-out guitar and a punchy drumbeat. Bursting at the seams with layers of vocal harmonies, pedal steel, and a twangy guitar solo from MJ Lenderman, “Your Love” is a nervous reckoning with the pain of love as much as it is a ringing celebration of desire. 

Williams’s songs often toe this line, creating a staggering balance between decay and absolute comfort. Through these extremes, she manages to unearth bright, unclouded insights about herself and her most intimate relationships. Onstage, this clarity lends Williams a certain sternness; she often sets her face with a calm and unsmiling reserve. While she holds chaos and catastrophe close in her songs, beneath the surface there’s a taut and aching longing for connection, no matter the price. To love is to face the sharpest razor’s edge, but Williams convinces us that the risk is worth it. How far would you go to feel close to someone again?

Squirrel Flower Dearly Somber and Soft and Dumb open. Thu 1/26, 9 PM, Sleeping Village, $20, $18 in advance. 21+


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Squirrel Flower braces herself for love’s unbridled force on new single “Your Love” Read More »

Squirrel Flower braces herself for love’s unbridled force on new single “Your Love”Tasha Viets-VanLearon January 23, 2023 at 12:00 pm

Ella Williams, the Massachusetts-born musician who makes music as Squirrel Flower, released her first EP, Early Winter Songs From Middle America, while attending Grinnell College in 2015, and she’s been steadily touring ever since. After graduation, she moved back to Boston to make her way in the DIY scene, and she soon turned heads with stunning back-to-back albums, 2020’s I Was Born Swimming and 2021’s Planet (i), both released through Polyvinyl. She moved to Chicago in 2021, and since then she’s seamlessly settled into the city’s tight-knit music scene, even joining tours with local bands, including Tenci, Mia Joy, and Whitney. Squirrel Flower’s latest single, “Your Love,” is a full-band reimagining of the softer, more stripped-down track “Your Love Is a Disaster” from last year’s Planet EP. Here, Williams steadies herself against the sharp gut punch of new love, her voice careening over fuzzed-out guitar and a punchy drumbeat. Bursting at the seams with layers of vocal harmonies, pedal steel, and a twangy guitar solo from MJ Lenderman, “Your Love” is a nervous reckoning with the pain of love as much as it is a ringing celebration of desire. 

Williams’s songs often toe this line, creating a staggering balance between decay and absolute comfort. Through these extremes, she manages to unearth bright, unclouded insights about herself and her most intimate relationships. Onstage, this clarity lends Williams a certain sternness; she often sets her face with a calm and unsmiling reserve. While she holds chaos and catastrophe close in her songs, beneath the surface there’s a taut and aching longing for connection, no matter the price. To love is to face the sharpest razor’s edge, but Williams convinces us that the risk is worth it. How far would you go to feel close to someone again?

Squirrel Flower Dearly Somber and Soft and Dumb open. Thu 1/26, 9 PM, Sleeping Village, $20, $18 in advance. 21+


Read More

Squirrel Flower braces herself for love’s unbridled force on new single “Your Love”Tasha Viets-VanLearon January 23, 2023 at 12:00 pm Read More »

Chicago Bears Mock Draft: Big trade addresses WR, Bears add a QBRyan Heckmanon January 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm

Chicago Bears, NFL Draft (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
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In less than a month, the NFL offseason will be in full swing. For now, we’re still in the rumor phase, but you better believe the Chicago Bears have plenty of suitors for that no. 1 overall pick.

For those thinking the Bears will keep the pick, you are sadly mistaken.

This is going to be an all-out bidding war for the top pick in the draft, and it’ll more than likely lead to a team drafting Alabama quarterback Bryce Young.

The Bears, meanwhile, will get a haul for the pick. What’s intriguing to think about, though, is just how many assets could come from that first overall pick. In this mock, the Bears make a couple of trades in order to stack capital.

The Chicago Bears pull off the first of two trades in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft

In the first of their initial trades in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Bears move down just one spot with the team that could have had this selection in the first place. The Houston Texans need their franchise quarterback, and that’s why they make a trade like this.

Bears Get
Pick No. 2
Pick No. 65
Pick No. 204
Texans Get
Pick No. 1

In exchange for the first pick, the Bears move down just one spot and also get the no. 65 pick in the third round, plus a later pick at no. 204 overall. It’s not as enormous a return as some may have thought the Bears would get, but again we’re just moving down one spot here. Next, the Bears make an even bigger splash.

In their second trade of the first round, the Chicago Bears land a haul, including Davante Adams

Bears Get
Pick No. 7
Pick No. 38
Pick No. 70
WR Davante Adams
Raiders Get
Pick No. 2

This is where things get real interesting. The Las Vegas Raiders are also in need of a franchise quarterback now that Derek Carr is on his way out. They move up with the Bears and trade Chicago the no. 7 pick, no. 38 in the second round, no. 70 in the third round along with All Pro wide receiver Davante Adams.

After just one year in Vegas, Adams comes back to the NFC North and has the chance to face his old team in Green Bay. Justin Fields gets his alpha wide receiver to start the draft, and the Bears haven’t even made a selection yet.

Now, we really get going.

Next: Picks 7 and 38
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Chicago Bears Mock Draft: Big trade addresses WR, Bears add a QBRyan Heckmanon January 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm Read More »