Chicago is a amazing city and has been an important part of my life. My parents were born and raised there, and I was born in a small town close enough to the big city to make me feel I was from Chicago. For example, I am a die-hard White Sox and Bulls fan.
When it comes to cultural activities, Chicago has just about anything and everything you could desire. My early exposure to a world class city is what started me realizing how wonderful and diverse the world can be and how much I need to travel to see it all in person.
Deep down inside I know Chicago will always be my home. My "real" hometown of Marengo is only 40 minutes away from the big city. My early work experience In Chicago was at the Downtown Farmer Markets, selling organic fruits and vegetables for Nichols Farm and Orchard of Marengo. At the markets I interacted with the locals, improving my selling skills and having a great time with good friends. 4th of July in Chicago is a major event with the Taste of Chicago and hordes of local residents and visitors combining to provide a unique experience.
Chicago is known for its ethnic neighborhoods and great cuisine. My favorite is Star of Siam - the best Thai food I have ever tasted. And the music scene in Chicago is incredible: you can find the best of any type of music, and the shows always mange to draw me back to the greatest city in the world.