Tens of thousands of people are expected Aug. 7-8 to celebrate the annual Northalsted Market Days. This event is the largest two-day street fair in the Midwest.
The event spans six city blocks ( in Boystown, from Belmont to Brompton along Halsted ) , has 17 entrance gates and features three music stages with more than 40 musical acts performing. Scheduled performers include Joan Jett, Jennifer Holliday, Jon Secada, Blake Lewis, Kimi Hayes, Cathy Richardson and The Joans.
Northalsted Market Days is also known for its vast array of unique vendors. The event features 400 food, arts and crafts vendors.
Ellen leaving
'American Idol'
Saying that the post did not feel right for her and citing an exhausting schedule, talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres is leaving her position as judge on American Idol, according to People.com .
DeGeneres, who replaced Paula Abdul, became a full-time judge on the show during its ninth season, won by Illinoisan Lee Dewyze.
In a statement, DeGeneres said, "A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idol producers know that this didn't feel like the right fit for me. ... It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for."
She also cited a more emotional reason for departing: "I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings. "
Another judge, Simon Cowell, left at the end of last season to focus on bringing the British talent show The X Factor here.
Examiner.com has reported that Jennifer Lopez has signed on to be a new judge and that judge Kara DioGuardi's contract was allegedly not renewed.