CHANGING SKYLINES
Chicago’s skyline is readying for a historic change. Thanks to a recently approved zoning change from the City Council, construction can now begin on a 150-story, 2,000-foot lakefront tower that will twist into the skies above the Windy City.
Talk about a tourist attraction. Once the structure is complete it will unseat its neighbor, the 1,451-foot Sears Tower, as the tallest building in the United States. In fact, the new spire would also be taller than New York’s 1,776-foot Freedom Tower, which is currently under construction at the former World Trade Center site.
The tower’s designer, Spanish-born architect, Santiago Calatrava is credited with creating a number of world famous tourist attractions including the Athens Olympic sports complex and the Milwaukee Art Museum. But his latest design will likely eclipse all of his other works, if you believe Chicago’s mayor who predicted the Chicago Spire will be “the world’s most celebrated address.”
The new tower will be located near the intersection of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. It will feature a four-story transparent glass lobby and 1,200 units. And while it may earn the title of tallest building in the U.S., it will still dwarf a tower in Dubai, which is currently under construction (and getting a lot of press). That structure is expected to rise beyond 2,300 feet and have more than 160 floors. Currently, the tower has surpassed the height of the Sears Tower… and designers say it still has a long way to go. Its ultimate height will remain a secret until construction is complete.
COWBOY FUNCTIONS
Cowboys and cowboy lovers are saddling up for a host of activities showcasing Hawaii’s paniolo (cowboys) during the island’s annual Western Week festivities, which kick off on Saturday. If you will be traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii between now and May 28th you don’t want to miss this unique festival that draws thousands to the city of Honokaa each year.
The fun gets underway Saturday with the colorful Paniolo Parade and the opening of the Olde Time Paniolo Market, which features Western-themed foods and crafts; a saddle-making seminar; and a free leather-stamping make-and-take activity for kids. Other events include a citywide block party and a rodeo complete with slack-roping elimination. To wrap up the week, paniolo from around the state gather to show off their roping and riding skills.
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