In grilled-onion-soaked air, a crowd of about 200 people show up for inspiring speeches and a spirited Blues jam session. I saw tears in the eyes of several attendees, former residents of the neighborhood, who told me this event reminded them of the old days. They were further saddened to learn that the University of Illinois at Chicago is not going for the historic district concept but instead plans to tear down everything, including the hot dog stands. "That's scared land we're on. The University is disrespecting culture, a real landmark for us. This is where that music began."
They may be listening to this music for the last time, hearing blues amongst the environment and culture that created it. --SB
Crowds gather by Henry's Variety Store, on Halsted in front of Jims Original, the north side of Maxwell St., and right by the corner.
Lady Regina takes a snack break with her cousin before dancing.
Bobby Davis warms up the crowd with his organ blues.
Bass player Wild Bill, now on drums, playing in front of the Maxwell Street Wall of Fame, gives the place a strong beat. Another drummer stops by with his congas.
Reverend John Johnson gives the benediction.
Maxwell Street peanut vendor Milton Bradley sings a Hebrew folk melody.
UIC Professor and Blues poet Sterling Plumpp stops by to say hello and read some poetry.
Rene Maxwell from the Public Housing Coalition gave an inspirational speech.
Maxwell Street veteran Bobby Too Tough sang as his sister admires the performance.
Johnnie Mae Dunson sits in her wheelchair, next to her niece and nephew, waiting to sing. She was glad to see her name on the Wall of Fame, although it was misspelled.
Big Daddy Rich drops by to sing and hold a sign.
Johnnie Mae Dunson sings backed by Paul Patraitis.
Piano C. Red rocks the stage with his vocal blues. He did some cool dancing and strutting on stage.
Blues musician Bill Warren takes a seat to listen and then visits with our smallest protester.
Sugar Baby Irma Minzie, the widow of Maxwell St. Blues musician Willie James, joins the crowd.
Harp playing by Harmonica George, Big Daddy Rich and Harmonica Jimmy, and Jody Noa encouraged on by Johnny Mae Dunson.
There was dancing and holding protest signs (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6). Jackson Potter from the UIC Minority Student Coalition sits by a "Hey UIC, Don't Displace Community" sign. A former UIC med student talks about racism at UIC. Protesters put their name on a mailing list to keep in touch and show solidarity. Visitors from neighboring Pilsen show their support.
There were interesting posters placed near the Wall of Fame. One poster gave a new interpretation for what UIC stands for: UIC = University Insensitive to Culture.
Blues writer and promoter, Ed Kosary, hugs Johnnie Mae Dunson. Ed brings his girlfriend and her sister, wearing a Kosary designed Maxwell St. t-shirt. Ed's mom stops by for some Blues.
Music videographer, Pat Cunningham chats with musician Paul Patraitis in front of the famous Cheat You Fair sign. Paul Patraitis has a blues conversation with a Maxwell Street vendor.
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