Wishbone is very pleased to support the 8th annual FREE festival that begins next Thursday, March 3rd and runs through Sunday, the 6th, at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater (Randolph Street side of the building).  The festival presents the work of independent filmmakers from around the world on the themes of peace, social justice and non-violence:  26 films this year from 11 countries that can’t be seen anywhere else.
 
Jerome McDonnell of WBEZ’s Worldview will MC the opening night ceremony and throughout there will be opportunities to meet the filmmakers in Q&A sessions and forums interspersing and running parallel to the films.  Drop by any time during the festival for a breather from the apocalyptic media coverage of the “democracy show” for some real stories and events that are rarely mentioned in prime time.   You can visit the festival’s website at http://peaceonearthfilmfestival.org/2016-peace-on-earth-film-festival/ for more information about film showings and which films are family friendly and accessible.

On Friday night, for instance, at 7:45, Gordon Quinn and a fifty year documentary history of Kartemquin Films will be honored after a screening of a short directed by Gordon. Again, the event is FREE and is a worthwhile visit to the downtown.

The backstory to Wishbone’s support of the festival centers on a “regular” often using the back room during the day for correspondence over Red Eggs or Black Bean Cakes.  His name is Nick Angotti, founder and director of the festival, whose activism began in 1970- in the wake of the Kent State shootings.  An established actor for over 25 years, Nick has done the commercial route of guest starring in 50 television shows, a dozen features (with actors ranging from James Earl Jones to Bruce Willis and Walter Matthau) . . . and hundreds of commercials.   In a second life, Nick’s calling led to ministerial studies while continuing as a producer of engaged TV mini-series like the 9-part “Season for Nonviolence” about Chicago youth community centers that make a difference.  The Peace on Earth Film Festival has continued to grow and continues to be a vital showplace for the general public and for continuing work in bringing films and relevant issues to public schools in the Chicago area.
 
Once again, the festival begins NEXT Thursday and is only a short El ride away.  Taking time out, like sitting for a meal, is all part of a mindfulness and sharing that is part of the journey for peace. 
 
In Nick’s words,
“One of the purposes of this festival is to bring to light films that are often challenged to find exhibition and to contribute to a culture of peace through international cinema, dialogue and programming highlighting individuals on the vanguard of peace activism and social change.”

Valentines Day doesn't have to be claustrophobic, cloying or grudgingly expensive for a good meal . . . This Sunday evening, Lily Floeter and Rachel LaPorte return for a flute and piano concert of classical and popular music while the Wishbone kitchen adds to its regular menu some savories like Roast Ribeye, Salmon Papillot (cooked in parchment with shrimp and vegetables) and our Savannah Paprika Chicken.   There will be some surprise appetizers like fried squid with okra (some calls it "calamari" and that does sound more romantic . . .), but there'll be plenty for vegans, too.

The music is FREE:  there is no Prix Fixe menu to saddle you with more food than you desire and the "adult" room will have its own white tablecloth ambience while the main room will feature specials for kids, Do-It-Yourself Valentine cards, and of course, live music . . . for a civilized, creative evening.

Rich will be concocting some special cocktails for the occasion and we'll even have Floats made with Abita Root Beer on tap.

For those celebrating at BRUNCH, Diego will have some special Valentine Pancakes along with southern Deviled Eggs, waffles, Louisiana French Toast and blackened Salmon to round out the meal.

Reservations are strongly recommended for Dinner and parties of 8 or more may call in advance Sunday morning for timely accommodation at Brunch.

Special Night at Wishbone:  not only are we open on a Tuesday Night, but we'll be serving the best Carnival fare anywhere with an ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET accompanied by live music, tawdry beads and lots of Abita Beer with keepsakes from the brewery.  

Legendary boogie piano player, ERWIN HELFER, will be keeping things hot and while waiters cool you down with French Quarter cocktails, Hurricanes, a variety of Abita beers. . . and, yes, some Abita ROOT BEER on tap for floats and kids' delight.

If you bring a costume or something in the spirit of reckless abandon, you may WIN A FREE DINNER at a 7 PM judging.

This is NOT your regular Dinner Service or menu at Wishbone.  This is an Eat Fest LIke there is No Tomorrow. 

For adults, the opulent buffet (including desserts) is 19.95 while for juniors 12 to 16, the price is 14.95.  Kids under 12 and join the gluttony for 9.95  and toddlers, of course, are free (but may be asked to perform). 

FEASTING BEGINS AT 5:30 and ERWIN HITS THE IVORIES AT 6 PM. 
We'll be dishing food till the goats come home . . . or till the ashes settle on Wednesday.