5.9.07

Week 6: Wednesday, September 5 – Chicago, IL – Event

Today, we awake knowing we have our Chicago event in Englewood, Il, one of the more under-serviced populations in America. After spending a few hours working on logistics and preparing for the presentaton, Ali and Kristian, drive over to the Bahai Temple, 2 miles North of Evanston (the suburb we are staying in Chicago, ie. Debora Poneman's house).


For Kristian, having grown up Bahai, it is a special time to see this structure. It took decades to construct, the concrete structure is composed of concrete and ground quartz to preserve it's strength. So, in effect, it is this massive quartz inter-laden structure that vibrates with energy even on approaching it. It's on the 7 wonders of Illinois list
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Before the event in Englewood, Kristian and Ali are invited by Debra to out for lunch with an old friend of hers, Neil, at an Indian Restaurant in the heart of "Indiaville", Chicago. The food is spectacular, and Neil great entertainment telling stories of Debra's early life (They were next door neighbors growing up)!

After filling ourselves, Ali and Kristian head over to the Lindbloom High School in Englewood. Driving through this community, it is evident that there are problems because of all the vacant lots and closed businesses. When we arrive at the school near 63rd and S. Wolcott, we are impressed by the exterior. The principal Alan Mather gives us a tour, shows us where we'll be speaking and then introduces us to one of the classrooms. There are two second languages taught at the school, Mandarin and Arabic. It was then we found out that this school was a progressive school that was funded partially by the state department and the city, and recently had $40 million renovation.



The talk ended up being our smallest talk. Our event conflicted with every other clubs that were having their first meeting throughout the school year. Even though it was a small group, there was lots of interest and it was a lot of fun.











Driving back through Chicago rush hour took a couple of hours what would otherwise be a 30 minute drive. Kristian came home and happily relaxed and worked on tour stuff for the rest of the evening. Ali, who was so inspired by the Bahai temple went back and sat there for another four hours. When Ali got back, Deb made them a big Indian feast, and we talked about her incredible Wellness Business, Yes to Success. It has these fantastic wellness products that are cheaper and better for you than most other things on the market.