Can[terbury] vs. Food

by Tyler Zeutenhorst

I probably tried a bit too hard on the title, but it was worth a shot. Last Saturday, Chicago Semester students participated in the famous Progressive Dinner. The event takes students on a culinary tour of the Canterbury Court Apartments, and gives everyone a chance to try appetizers, main courses, and desserts prepared by their fellow classmates. Participants did all the shopping themselves and hosted a come-and-go style gathering in their respective rooms. It was a fun night of fellowship, and the chefs expressed culture and creativity with their foods. We saw everything from black olive and carrot hors d’oeuvres that resembled penguins to chili with French fries in it.

Thursdays are big days for the team at Blue Sky/Freeosk. An “Eye of the Tiger” ambiance can be felt as employees mentally prepare themselves for their weekly volleyball game, which follows the workday. The office has a team in a Chicago Recreation league. The league is primarily made up of 20 and 30-year-olds and meets every Thursday night at Lincoln Park High School. My Arts in the City class usually attends art events on Thursdays, but we attended an opera that week, which was on Friday, so I was able to participate with my co-workers. It was fun interacting with everyone in an active, competitive setting. We played three close games, but lost them all. I still had a blast. Afterwards, we went to Stanley’s Kitchen and Tap to eat pizza and watch the Blackhawks game. The Hawks dominated and I got the leftover pizza. What a way to end an already enjoyable night.

Last week’s classes provided me with two field trip opportunities. My Arts in the City class toured the Art Institute of Chicago. We got the privilege of viewing original pieces from artists like Monet, Picasso and Warhol. The museum is huge; I didn’t make it through half of it. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to go again and see what else is on display. Dr. Clinton Stockwell took our Urban Planning class to Jane Addams’ Hull House Museum, which is located on the campus of UIC. There, we learned about Jane Addams, and her role in the social work field. We also learned about Hull House, which provided living and working opportunities to the many cultures that were populating Chicago.

Until next time…

Tyler Zeutenhorst