JENNIFER'S "WHAT'S HAPPENING!" THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - JUNE 8, 2007
HERE'S WHAT'S GOING ON IN AND AROUND CHICAGO THIS WEEKEND!

It seems as though Sue has been having way too much FUN on her weekends so I'll be stepping-in. Let's get started!
First and foremost, it's BLUESFEST WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - June Th through the 10th at Grant Park in Downtown Chicago, near Jackson and Columbus Boulevards. The Th Annual Chicago Bluesfest will offer blues legends Kook Taylor, Irma Thomas, Billy Branch, and Bobby Rush on the main stage at the Petrillo Music Shell. Side stages feature great blues as well, of no less talent. Come celebrate Howling' Wolf's 97th birthday (he's still here in spirit), and the Th Anniversary of The Sons of the Blues, all weekend long. Big crowds here, but well worth the visit - the Blues is in us all, especially here in Chicago!
It's Summer, and one of the things that comes to my mind is BBQ!
Still got the grill covered, well why not head out to the 9th Annual Rib fest Chicago this weekend, June 9-10. It is being held at 4000 N Lincoln Avenue, and hosted by the North Center Chamber of Commerce. There will be live performances on two stages featuring musicians and dogs too. Whether or not they'll be performing is anyone's guess. There is something for every age, with a special corner for the kids and an oasis for our seasoned citizens. A $5.00 donation will benefit the community.
If a Fiesta is what you had in mind, why not come out to the Back of the Yards. They are celebrating their 17th annual gathering with over 100 vendors, dancing, music, deejays, carnival rides and even a petting zoo the kids are sure to love. So why not stop by June 9-10 at 1800 W Th St and enjoy what this neighborhood has to offer.
Chicago has events that are now in their 20, 30, and 40 somethings too. First is the 23rd Annual Printer's Row Book Fair. This is the largest free literary event in the Midwest featuring author readings and signings for every book lover in your family as well as panel discussions and storytelling for the kids. Located at 700 S. Dearborn Street with some events taking place at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State Street on June 9-10 and requires tickets.
Second is the 33rd Annual Wells Street Art Festival which will showcase glass, ceramics, paintings, and drawings by over 300 artists. There will be refreshments, silent auctions, and kid activities too on June 9-10, 1300 N Wells Street.. A $7-$10 donation benefits Old Town Merchants and Residents Association.
Don't forget to visit the 42nd Annual Anderson ville Midsommarfest honoring the neighborhood's Swedish heritage. There will be International food, arts, and crafts. Enjoy music and dancing on four stages, a pet parade and kid's activities, June 9-10, 5200 N Clark Street. A $5.00 donation benefits the Anderson ville Chamber of Commerce.
I hope you find time this weekend to partake in some of the summer activities this great City has to offer. Feel free to share the fun things you and your family are doing this summer in Chicago. You won't find a city with more to discover in the Summertime!
Enjoy your weekend, safely, of course!
DEAN'S TEAM "WHAT'S HAPPENING!" IN CHICAGO REPORTER,
JENNIFER GARRITY