http://www.viewpoints.com/aboutme/Elysabeth Wed, 06 Feb 2008 05:02:12 GMT Reviews by Elysabeth at Viewpoints.com http://www.viewpoints.com/Heifer-Organization-review-99640 Who wants to give more stuff?  Who wants to receive more stuff?  Most of it you don't use anyway.  The Heifer Organization, heifer.org, allows you to purchase, on someone's behalf or just because you want to, bees, or bunnies, or cows, or goats, or trees to help rural people in third world countries better their lives.  By having a cow or a goat, the family can produce milk and cheese and then sell these items.  Bees allow them to make honey to sell and trees can improve their farming environment.  The Heifer Organization allows you to give people a starting chance to improve their lives.  And if you can't afford a whole cow, you can pitch in towards a cow or a flock of geese or whatever you choose. — In addition to allowing you to help a family become self-reliant, the family that has received livestock and training to feed and nourish their families, promises to pass on their knowledge and an offspring... Wed, 06 Feb 2008 05:02:12 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Heifer-Organization-review-99640 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/The-San-Francisco-Chocolate-Factory-Wine-Lovers-Chocolate-6-Tins-review-41880 Oooh, what a great gift!  The Wine Lover's Chocolate offered by The San Francisco Chocolate Company is so much fun!  It supplies 6 sweetly decorated metal tins of wafer thin chocolates ( perfect for the after dinner nibble at a dinner party) to be paired directly with wine.  For example, the Port Tin carries 54% cocoa chocolate bits perfectly blended with just enough cocoa to be paired with Port.  The Zinfandel Tin carries 72%  cocao chocolate thins are perfectly blended with just enough cocoa to be paired with Zinfandel.  Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet and Pinot Noir chocolate tins are also part of the six pack.  Run out to your local wine store and choose six, excellent  bottles of wine to accompany this melody of chocolates and you have your self a wonderful gift basket. Or throw your own wine and chocolate tasting party with this varied array of chocolates!  A great, original gift that puts the average box of chocolate to shame!... Wed, 30 Jan 2008 05:07:42 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/The-San-Francisco-Chocolate-Factory-Wine-Lovers-Chocolate-6-Tins-review-41880 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/The-Map-Room-Chicago-IL-review-6a4f2 Beer, glorious beer!  Go around the world in 80 minutes (more if you are making a night of it - or less if you are on a death wish) and taste the beers from around the world at The Map Room.  God, I love this place.  First of all, they serve the tall, slender stick pretzels that go great with beer.  Second, they have a phenomenal, down-right educational list of beers.   Hundreds of beers adorn the menu and chalk list and, even though the maps aren't exactly accurate, maps of the world are painted on the walls in life size.  Who doesn't want to drink beer while Sao Paulo, Brazil stares you in the face?   And if the maps themselves don't grab you, go for one of the classic, elegant, delicate, make-you-want-to-trade-all-your-belongings-in-for-a-good-camera, National Graphic that line the walls by the droves.  Most are as old as 30 years, and wear it as if they were read over and over again with love and passion. I love the rustic,... Wed, 30 Jan 2008 05:01:12 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/The-Map-Room-Chicago-IL-review-6a4f2 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Coldstone-Creamery-Chicago-IL-review-01712 Oh yes, a visit to Coldstone Creamery is worth the extra pounds I gain or the extra mile I need to run.  Oh yes.  Yes, yes, yes.  Tell me Cake Batter Ice Cream doesn't answer you sweet dreams?  C'mon?!?  The ice cream at ColdStone Creamery in Chicago is so rich and delicious, I would be happy with just the ice cream.  But wait!  There's more!  I get to add Carmel and fudge and Heath Bar to my bad-girl snack.  ( More like a meal, if you order the tub that I order.) That's right.  You can add anything you want to your favorite ice cream (Cinnamon Ice Cream and Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream are mighty nice, too!).  This is the real candy store!  Pick Oreo Cookies, or Gummy Bears, or Butterfinger or who-knows-what and add that to your big mound of ice cream.  Watch as it gets poked and prodded on a cold, marble slab to turn into your dessert fantasy.  Fantabulous! — Who... Thu, 17 Jan 2008 05:32:05 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Coldstone-Creamery-Chicago-IL-review-01712 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Charlie-Wilsons-War-review-283b6 I found Charlie Wilson's War to be a really well-written movie, with dialog that kept me interested and riveted the whole way through.  This movie also gives a really intriguing view of recent history and how politics supposedly gets played. — As always, Philip Seymour Hoffman steals the show by being profoundly in character and not missing a beat.  Tom Hanks does a good job of showing range of emotion and Julie Roberts, well.....I guess they needed another big name. — Despite the intended blockbuster-ness of this movie, I thought it did a good job of showing the character development of Charlie Wilson, a man without much purpose in politics who suddenly finds himself championing a cause, even if he can't do the same for his personal life.  — In short, I would recommend this as a highly entertaining, interesting and intellectually stimulating movie, despite that Julie Roberts, who, sadly, just keeps showing up everywhere. —... Thu, 17 Jan 2008 05:04:18 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Charlie-Wilsons-War-review-283b6 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Sultans-Market-Chicago-IL-review-91f55 I thought it was urban legend, a story that grew in zest every-time it was told. I never thought it could be true.  I had heard there was this little, Middle Eastern convenience store on West North Avenue in Chicago that offered, behind the soap and small boxes of cereal, fresh falafel that was out of this world.  The reputation was so grand, and the locale so bizarre, I never gave it much credence.  But then I tired it! — Hold on to your bootstraps!  Sultan's Market has the best falafel on the planet!  Filled with fresh garnish and rich,hummus, this falafel sandwich rocked my world.  I stand by the legend and confirm with vigor that its true!  Sultan's Market, now also on Clark Street in Lincoln Park, serves generous, voluptuous falafel that will make you weep. — I am a believer! —... Thu, 17 Jan 2008 04:55:53 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Sultans-Market-Chicago-IL-review-91f55 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Piazza-Bella-Chicago-IL-review-02713 Mmmm, yummy!  Thin pizza.  Fresh salads. Indulgent Lasagna.  A tiny neighborhood gem.  It is hard to go wrong at Piazza Bella.  Tucked away on West Roscoe in Roscoe Village in Chicago, Piazza Bella offered thin, individual pizzas long before it was chic.  Piazza Bella really feels like a little Italian restaurant from the Italian countryside. — The interior seats about 30 and the outside, great for people watching and neighborhood get-togethers, offers seating for about 25. Due to popularity, they bought the bar next to the restaurant and are trying to build it as a wine bar that plays live music.   Weather you are there for drinks or the food, the atmosphere is superb. — Personally I have never been a fan of hard, Italian break, so that might be a drawback for some, but overall the food is excellent and the locale can't be beat. Grazie! —... Thu, 17 Jan 2008 04:47:59 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Piazza-Bella-Chicago-IL-review-02713 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Ashland-Tire-and-Auto-Mechanics-Chicago-IL-review-fe860 At Ashland Tire and Auto Mechanics on Ashland Avenue in Chicago, I am in good hands.  I have been going to these guys  for years and trust them entirely.  Their estimates are reasonable and they never over-charge.   I often go and leave there for under $40 for a check up with a status report of everything is OK.   They never "mysteriously" find something wrong and their service is speedy and reliable.  Just what I... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 02:21:11 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Ashland-Tire-and-Auto-Mechanics-Chicago-IL-review-fe860 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Frigidaire-Mini-Dishwasher-review-5dde0 No!  Where are the product police?  How did this thing make it to market? The Frigidaire mini Dish Washer FDR25JR1S0 doesn't even come close to doing what it promises.  This thing can't get one dish clean.  And the soap dispenser sticks, not always dispensing.  This is the worst product ever made.  And I'm horrified by how much water I waste on a load of dishes, only to have to do them again (!) in the sink.  And I am not talking about heavy pots and pans not getting clean.  I mean nothing gets clean. Not even barely used plates and glasses.  I have had the repair man over twice and the final conclusion is that this is just the best this dishwasher can do. - - - which is zero!  I'm angry. I'm annoyed.  And I'm disgusted.  If allowed, I would fire everyone in Product Testing and... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 02:15:12 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Frigidaire-Mini-Dishwasher-review-5dde0 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Toro-Sushi-Chicago-IL-review-23c11 If you can get in to Toro Sushi on Clark Street in Chicago, you should play the lottery because you are clearly lucky.  Or maybe you are smart and put your name in 1 hour before you are hungry, go somewhere for a drink and come back.  Whatever your plan of attack, it is worth it to go the extra mile.  Toro sushi fits 32 people, half of whom sit at the sushi bar.   There are a gazillion rolls to choose from and 70% of them are combinations you never heard of. I had a Tiger Roll that included sunflower seeds - - and it was fantabulous. — There are lots of hand-written signs on the wall about new rolls and new creations.  They also serve real Wasabi.  ( I didn't know there was any other kind.)  There is some sort of odd Japanese-Big Ten connection that I don't really get, but overall Toro Sushi is a delightfully colorful place.  — There is a bit of a catch 22, though. I eat sushi to remain (if all goes well) or get ( if things... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 02:03:27 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Toro-Sushi-Chicago-IL-review-23c11 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Hackneys-Chicago-IL-review-fabe2 Hackney's on South Dearborn Street in Chicago is a great little Irish Pub and Restaurant that has a colorful bar with some excellent Beer selections.  Mmmmm Rogue Beer!  It also has a warm and cozy dining room serving incredibly good, glorified bar food.  The half order of Onion Rings could feed a good portion of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the sandwiches are hearty.  I return for the Spinach and Strawberry Salad (and Rogue Beer!) because it is yummy with a capital Y. Hackney's is Chicago's Cheers with local flavor and welcoming atmosphere.  It's the kind of place you roll over to, and fold into your pub stool, nice and comfy.  The bartenders are friendly, the food is good. It isn't too big or overwhelming and TVs are obscure.  They might not know your name, like at Cheers, but it sure feels like home. —... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:54:40 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Hackneys-Chicago-IL-review-fabe2 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Chicago-Symphony-Orchestra-review-c6892 I have never had a less than excellent experience at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.  During the days of Sir George Solti concerts were exquisite and first class.  Under Barenboim, it was energetic and exciting.  With Boulez, it retains its exceptional standing.  The quality of the orchestra is almost second to none around the world, so if you are in Chicago and have the chance  - and can gets tickets - I highly recommend an evening at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In the past I have seen such greats as Yo Yo Ma and Placido Domingo, as well as many rising stars that have thrilled me with their talent.  I have brought my nephew here to the Children's program and have enjoyed Jazz and Latin music, as well. — Prices may be a concern, so don't feel bad about going to the tippy-top and getting $30 seats.  The sound is excellent and the view extraordinary.  The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is not to be missed. —... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:33:01 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Chicago-Symphony-Orchestra-review-c6892 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Revlon-Fabulash-Mascara-review-6abe1 Revlon, Fabulash Mascara - Waterproof, sucks.  It clumps. It runs.  It isn't waterproof and I don't like it.  Within ½ an hour most of it is down to my nose, and I look like Alice Cooper, which isn't a nifty party trick unless it's 1970.  I bought it because it was on sale (damn!) and I am now just going to have to buy something else. As the song goes, I'm 18 ( well, let's say slightly over 18) and I do know what I want.  Thanks Revlon Fabulash Mascara, but no thanks.... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:24:30 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Revlon-Fabulash-Mascara-review-6abe1 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Airborne-review-b1363 I don't know if this stuff works, but since your mind plays as big a role in getting you fit, as does your body, I religiously take Airborne at the slightest fear of the onset of a cold.  The fizzy liquid (first it is a tablet that sits in water and transforms) always makes my throat think that something good is happening to it.  And the thought of thousands of milligrams of vitamins coming my way always makes me feel better.  More expensive than its competitors, Airborne tastes better than its competitors, so I never bother with the others. I also love the Airborne gummy lozenges, although I might be alone in this area.  I highly recommend Airborne, even though I don't know if it is truly effective.  But I think it is, and that's what counts. —... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:18:35 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Airborne-review-b1363 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/East-Bank-Club-Gift-Shop-Chicago-IL-review-68510 Now this is odd.  Why would the East Bank Club Gift Shop, filled with sports equipment and garb, have a great selection of swank street clothes?  But, it does.  Smart, hip shirts, sweaters and pants for men and women.  And Winter coats, too.   Every thing is jammed together, so you have to be diligent in wading through the masses, but the selection is excellent, rivaling any boutique clothing store.  Also, the East Bank Club Gift Shop is not as pricey, oddly enough given the high-end Club, as most independent boutiques.  To be sure, you can find less expensive things at the large discount shipping centers, but it would be hard to find unique pieces at these prices at regular boutiques. So, if by chance you are either working out at the Club, or passing by on Kingsbury Street in Chicago, give the East Bank Pro Gift Shop a chance.  You never know what marvels you might find. —... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 01:08:57 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/East-Bank-Club-Gift-Shop-Chicago-IL-review-68510 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Chief-ONeills-Pub-and-Restaurant-Chicago-IL-review-195f0 Chief O'Neill's on Elston Avenue in Chicago is an Irish Pub and Restaurant surrounded by nothing.  So prepare yourself when you walk in and say, "Oh, My Gosh, this is fabulous!"  Stained glass greets you as you enter, and the two tier bar area offers booths (I like to sit upstairs and people watch from an advantage) and seating around a roaring fireplace. A Large dining room - as big as the large bar - and enormous, charming outside garden awaits for summer. Live Irish music is played on Sundays around the fire, and, of course, Scotch, Irish Whiskey and beer choices abound.  But the real jaw-dropper is the food.  Sure, there is Bangers and Mash, and Pot Pie.  Fine and good.  But mussels, and Shrimp Salad, Salmon and Fillet of Cod and Fillet Mignon?  ($ 21.95 over creamy potatoes - now that doesn't suck!)  Who knew?  I love this place and I love to take friends here because it is the kind of place that you can spend 3 ½... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:58:06 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Chief-ONeills-Pub-and-Restaurant-Chicago-IL-review-195f0 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/The-Riverview-Chicago-IL-review-92ed The Riverview in Chicago on Damen in Roscoe Village is a good place to meet friends and grab a drink at the long bar.   Lots of booths (and big screen TVs for those in need) fill this place as well, so, surprisingly, along with bar food, it is also a great place to get a salad.  Yes, over 10 salad selections!  In the summer, it has outdoor seating, which works just fine, if you don't mind sitting smack dab on Damen Avenue. Late night this can get to be pretty filled, particularly if there is something special on TV.  It used to be combined with the space next door and had some pool tables, but now the two rooms have been split and The Riverview is a bit more cozy, and offers a warmer atmosphere than a regular ol' sports bar. —... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:51:39 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/The-Riverview-Chicago-IL-review-92ed Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Victory-Banner-Kitschn-Chicago-IL-review-23cb1 Ahhh, Roscoe Village in Chicago: land of the ever-quaint, ever-quirky, tiny establishment.  To be sure, mainstream places are coming to town.  However, there are still a couple of places that carry their own in terms of personality, focus and conviction.  Victory Banner.  So you always wanted to go Buddhist?  Perhaps not totally, but you are curious about other religions and gosh, the Buddhist just seem so...well, zen.  But you are so busy.  Who has time to do the research?  Hey, no better way to stick your toe in the pool than to check out enlightenment over Breakfast.  Victory Banner on West Roscoe is a breakfast-only, (Eggs Satisfaction-Promise!  Eggs Satisfaction-Promise!) Buddhist-run (all in full garb) breakfast spot.  There is a tiny TV that has yoga/prayer/ceremonial events being displayed way in the back corner.  There are some pamphlets on Buddhism, as well as offerings of classes, books and meditation... Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:44:55 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Victory-Banner-Kitschn-Chicago-IL-review-23cb1 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Mc-Cormick-Schmicks-Chicago-IL-review-6d8f1 Mc Cormick & Schmick's Seafood restaurant  in Chicago's downtown on Wacker and in the Gold Coast on Chestnut Street is a reliable source for quality seafood.  It isn't my favorite seafood restaurant in town, but it does a consistently good job for lunch and dinner.  Like all seafood restaurants it is more expensive and the restaurant atmosphere is refined. — For me, where Mc Cormick and Schmick's really shines is its surprising, wildly inexpensive appetizer at Happy Hour in the bar area.  $ 2 Mussels, $ 2 Hamburgers, $ 2 Crab Cakes and much more tantalize the senses from 5 PM - 7 PM during the week.  There is even a surf and turf special which is the best deal in the city.  — I love coming here after work when the atmosphere is lively and festive and the wine and food are flowing.   Stop by during the week to enjoy drinks and some appetizers at jackpot prices. —... Fri, 04 Jan 2008 03:48:26 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Mc-Cormick-Schmicks-Chicago-IL-review-6d8f1 Elysabeth http://www.viewpoints.com/Green-Door-Tavern-Chicago-IL-review-566a3 Nothing they offer here is out of the ordinary.  Its the same beer as everywhere else and the food, while one step up from the same ol' bar food and pretty good - I mean, who doesn't like a big fat burger, isn't going to electrify your socks.  Yet, the atmosphere at The ( quirky) Green Door Tavern on Orleans in the River North District of Chicago is so fun and down-home, and slightly off that I never tire of going here again and again.  — On Fridays they have live music from 5 PM - 8 PM, so this is a great after work joint.  And you'll see all sorts here, so people watching is fun, too.  If you are tired of finding yourself at bars that lack personality, saunter over to the Green Door Tavern to change all that.... Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:19:42 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Green-Door-Tavern-Chicago-IL-review-566a3 Elysabeth