As much fun as the effects of alcohol may seem thanks to beer commercials and “Girls Gone Wild” videos, the truth of the issue is coming to light. On November 18, “Under the Influence: The Film Series” will screen and discuss “Duane Hopwood,” a film about addiction and how we handle it as a society, starring David Schwimmer. The panel includes Dr. Abhin Singla, a specialist in addiction medicine with the Clinical Associates in Medicine, who will discuss the emerging treatments for alcoholism. “[The film] is a very good portrayal about the effects of alcohol and the paths of destruction…getting to the point of moving forward and dealing with the issue,” the Chicago doctor says. While alcoholism has been pushed into the background, this event is using mainstream media to confront the disease. Singla believes that there is hope out there for those afflicted with alcoholism. “It’s an exciting time because the prognosis gets better and better with more treatment—it doesn’t have to be fatal.”
Jack Bauer’s Hideout
Rocco DeLuca and the Burden might not ring a bell yet, but “24”’s Kiefer Sutherland will change that—and still find time to fight terrorists. Last week WXRT joined with The Hideout for the Free Sample event where Sutherland played host and showcased the first band signed to his label, Ironworks. Before the performance that night, Sutherland and DeLuca took over The Eclectic Company, the XRT show hosted by Jon Langford and Nicholas Tremulis. “[Guests] get to come in here for two hours and play their influences in music, tell stories about their experiences…basically play DJ during the program,” WXRT’s Tom Lisack explains. And while most probably thought the “24” star would be the center of attention, he stepped aside while DeLuca performed live on the radio show. But just in case you’re wondering what music Sutherland featured as his influences, “he played some Marvin Gaye, AC/DC…a little of everything that you might not expect,” Lisack says.
Operation Preservation
Chicago held its own at the 2006 National Preservation Conference two weeks ago—The Mather Tower received the National Preservation Honor Award just a few years after the skyscraper had been dropping terracotta on Wacker Drive. The award annually recognizes “projects that meet preservation standards…something above and beyond,” Brian Goeken, the Deputy Commissioner for Landmarks with the City of Chicago, explains. After the skyscraper had fallen into “considerable disrepair,” the crown was removed and donated, while the rest of the exterior took two years to remodel. Twenty-one other projects were selected along with the Mather Tower for their exceptional work and partnerships with local governments and the community. But more than that, the projects were recognized for offering lessons or interests that extend beyond the project. Despite sharing the honor, Goeken says, “the City was pleased because it was not an easy project…some parts were brought in on a barge.”
