Denny's Free Grand Slam Breakfast 6 a.m.-2 p.m. at Denny's nationwide
It's simple: Go to Denny's. Wait in a long, snowy line. Get a free Grand Slam breakfast, which includes two eggs, two pancakes and either two sausage links or two pieces of bacon. Repeat. The area restaurants closest to the city are in Oak Park (711 N. Harlem), Norridge (4609 N. Harlem) and Oak Lawn (9217 S. Cicero). See 'em all mapped here.
Opera Underground’s “Opera with a Twist”
6:30-9:30 p.m. at Faith & Whiskey; $30 in advance, $40 at the door
Who says opera and debauchery don't mix? This event, which helps support Chicago Opera Theater's Opera For All program in Chicago Public Schools, combines the two with a night of open bar, appetizers and a short performance from some of its Young Artists.
Love Fest 7-10 p.m. at Holiday Club; $20 in advance, $25 at the door
As with the other Nerds at Heart events, this fest at the Holiday Club allows you to show off your prowess at trivia quizzes and board games. You'll get the chance to win some especially nerdy prizes and, if you're lucky, you might find a date for Valentine's Day! Tonight's gay-centric gathering (tomorrow is hetero night) features dating-themed mini-performances from local singer Amy Armstrong and Ms. Bertha Mason (actor/chef Michael Bowen) of "Baking with Bertha." Admission price includes one cocktail.
Chicago's Hope for Haiti 7 p.m. at House of Hope
A host of stars will be on hand at this South Side arena for Chicago's hope for Haiti benefit concert. Expect performances from Common, Donald Lawrence & Co., Lalah Hathaway, Shirley Caesar, Marvin Sapp, Regina Belle and others, plus appearances by Mayor Daley and Governor Quinn. The concert will double as a telethon, which will be broadcast live on WJYS TV, with proceeds going to Yele Haiti, Samaritan's Purse and International Childcare.
The Silver Project 7:30 p.m. at American Theater Company
Presented in parts and as a whole, "The Silver Project" includes work from over thirty playwrights across the country writing on what it means to be an American, with each playwright choosing a year between 1985-2010 to focus on. Tonight is part one.
Trivia Night 7:30 p.m. at Finley Dunne's Tavern
The Trivia Jerk website returns to West Lakeview once again this week, with winners of the popular event getting a $50 gift card to the bar. Start formulating your team names now. Check out Centerstage's listings of trivia nights in Chicago.
In case you didn't see DeRo's note earlier this morning, the Pitchfork Music Festival announced its first batch of acts today. Pavement, Modest Mouse, LCD Soundsystem, St. Vincent, Raekwon, Lightning Bolt, Cass McCombs, Sleigh Bells and Here We Go Magic will be among the performers July 16-18 in Union Park. Tickets ($40 per day, $90 for a three-day pass) go on sale at noon today.
What's changed in the last 20 years? Find out at Friday's Fresh Fest.
Fresh Fest 8 p.m. Friday at Arie Crown Theater; $40-$72.50
If you came of age in the '90s, this is pretty much a dream concert bill. Salt 'n' Pepa, Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, Slick Rick, Doug E. Fresh and Whodini will bring it back to the glory days of rap in a marathon show.
Got room for yet another Haiti benefit concert? You will once you've heard the lineup for Monday's "Chicago's Hope for Haiti" show at the House of Hope in Pullman. Common, Donald Lawrence & Co., Lalah Hathaway, Shirley Caesar, Marvin Sapp, Regina Belle and others will perform as part of the star-studded show that doubles as a telethon, to be broadcast live on WJYS TV at 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit Yele Haiti, Samaritan's Purse and International Childcare.
If you've still got some philanthropic energy left, check out these other Chicago-area Haiti benefits on Centerstage.
Black Math will give you a good association with numbers.(photo: Dana Browning via MySpace)
Black Math 9:30 p.m. at Hideout; $8
Hissing intimacies of underground '80s new-wave cassette days, these local bedroom popsters spend much of their time shrouding their vocals and synths in Depeche Mode brood and songs about "Reckless Thoughts" and a "Bottomless Sea." But if you stick with the lo-fi catharsis long enough, the band will treat you to sunshine-reverb punk shakers that could be Jesus and Mary Chain B-sides. For more shows, check out the Centerstage music calendar or sign up for the events newsletter.
Italian Cinema Night 7 p.m. at Salute Wine Bar
Every Thursday, this Gold Coast wine bar shows a classic Italian film, offering half-price pizzas to those who choose to partake in the cinematic experience. February is Sophia Loren Month, beginning tonight with "Two Women," for which Loren won an Academy Award for Best Actress (the first to win one for a non-English-speaking performance). If you can't make it tonight, consider the upcoming films: "Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow" (February 11), "Marriage Italian Style" (February 18) and "Houseboat" (February 25).
Faces of Poverty 5:30-8 p.m. at Black Walnut Gallery
Police officers see things differently from the rest of the population -- including poverty. Their views are the focus of this photo exhibit, which displays the work of those pursuing a master's degree in police psychology at the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Participants were asked to take photos at the beginning and end of a course, and the results show much about the officers' journeys. The exhibit event, which will include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, is open to the public, but an email RSVP to jpssj@adler.edu is encouraged.
There wasn't an official competition, but we feel pretty confident in declaring Uncle Fatty's Rum Resort the king of all cover-band bars in Chicago (step up your game, Joe's). Hot on the heels of its Winter Music Fest featuring cover bands from around the city, the island-themed establishment introduces "WTF Wednesdays" tonight, featuring the musical stylings of The Cover Kings, an all-star cover band formed from the city's top cover bands (Hairbangers Ball, Mike and Joe, '80s Proof). This is the cream of the crop, folks.
The band will perform two sets beginning at 9 p.m., and members of other professional cover bands can sign up for a jam session beginning at 8 p.m. Specials include $2 domestic beers and $2 well drinks. Not surprisingly, there's a cover charge: $4.
Hey, Punxsutawney Phil! We've got a three-pack of free events today, so forget that shadow and make the most of it (please?). For all you non-groundhogs, don't forget that it's primary election day in Illinois. Vote early and often.
Eat Outside 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at South Water Kitchen; free
How far would you go for a free lunch? South Water Kitchen aims to test your will; any guests willing to sit outside on the restaurant's patio today (in the snow, no less) will get their meals comped. Menu items -- all of which come with coffee or hot tea, thankfully -- include chicken pot pie, chili mac with aged cheddar and creme fraiche and "Spaghetti-O's" with orecchiette pasta and mini lamb meatballs. Seatings are at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Get "Lost" 5 p.m. (show at 7 p.m.) at Durty Nellie's; free
Everyone's favorite island-based show returns for its final season tonight, and you can watch all the action on Durty Nellie's 15 big-screen TVs (including a 16-by-19-foot giant) with your fellow fans while enjoying $2 pints of Bud and Bud Light, $3 pints of Goose Island, $9.50 pitchers of Goose Island, $5 Jager bombs and $4 Jager shots. After the show, stick around for "Lost" trivia for the chance to win a $100 gift card.
Pac Div 9 p.m. at The Shrine; free w/RSVP to PACDIV@theshrinechicago.com
Using basketball as an analogy, Pac Div released the mixtape "Church League Champions" with the intent of documenting their growth from rec. league scrubs (the underground) to NBA all-stars (rap's upper echelon). So far their rise has been steady, with accolades pouring in from all directions, including trendsetters like P. Diddy and Pharrell Williams. As of now the SoCal trio is working hard on a new mixtape entitled "Don't Mention It," which ought to be a nice primer for their forthcoming album, "Grown Kid Syndrome" (due out this summer and featuring production from Swiff D and The Neptunes).
Toast on the Magnificent Mile
This month-long celebration of the finer things in life gets started today at several Mag Mile-area businesses, which offer deals like a $45 three-tier dessert tray for two (Lawry's), $13 splits Moet & Chandon Imperial champagne (Signature Room) and more. See the website for full details.
Rhythms, Rhymes and Reflections 5-7 p.m. at UIC Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted; free
Celebrate the beginning of Black History Month with performances from spoken-word artist Kevin Coval, dance group Stick & Move and UIC's Black Literary Guild and Gospel Chorus.
La Roux 8 p.m. at Lincoln Hall; $18 (sold out)
If you hadn't heard, the '80s are back in a big way. This duo (Elly Jackson's the only member who performs live) brings the best of that synth-laden era to its very soulful performances. If you can somehow snag a ticket tonight, this show is sure to be a party. Yes Giantess and Moneypenny open.
Tracy Morgan Friday-Sunday at The Improv; $37; buy tickets
The "30 Rock" and former Saturday Night Live star comes to Schaumburg for a weekend engagement full of the unfiltered commentary that's made him a household name. Don't forget to bring him the french fries he did not ask for.
Lupe Fiasco 8 p.m. at The Shrine; $30
One thing you should know by now: Don't miss a Lupe show when he's playing his hometown. This time around, he'll be teaming up with Cheryle Robinson Jackson in an effort to raise funds for her bid for the US Senate; all the proceeds of this show will go toward her campaign. He'll also likely play a lot from his anticipated new album, Lasers.
Katerina's 10th Anniversary Jazz Celebration Showcase
8 p.m. at Katerina's; $10
The eclectic music lounge (the food and drink ain't too shabby, either) celebrates a decade of sophisticated entertainment with a blowout show featuring a number of its regular jazz performers, including Petra Van Nuis, Andy Brown, Grazyna Auguscik, Rose Colella, Elaine Dame, Spider Saloff, Joanie Pallatto & Bradley Parker-Sparrow, Paul Marinaro, Juli Wood, Dean Allrick and Andreas Georgas. Classic cocktails will be on special all night.
"Lower Debt"
7:30 p.m. at Beat Kitchen; free
The Inch Worm Playreading Series hosts its latest staged reading in the upstairs room at this Roscoe Village venue, with Joshua Aaron Weinstein's tale of a white-collar worker who ends up living in a tent city. In addition to LiveWire Chicago Theatre's world-premiere performance (the play opens at the Viaduct Theatre on March 5), you'll enjoy drink specials, a raffle and silent auction and a feedback session.
Universal Ninjas 9 p.m. at darkroom; $7
This humorous hip-hop/soul duo (which formed at Evanston Township High School) continues to introduce itself to the scene in a supporting performance along with DJ Alo & Ill Legit (The Gent$), Project Fr3sh, Iowa Rockwell and Lyric Versatile. Check out Centerstage's interview (with song samples) here. Also tonight: Daphne Willis at Lincoln Hall. Find more Wednesday music shows.
Honky Tonk Wednesdays 7 p.m. at The Pony; free
Local country act Slamabama drops by for a live performance at this Lakeview bar, where tonight you can get half-price burgers, $3 SoCo Lime, $3 Beam Black and $3 16-ounce Coors Silver Bullet cans. If you still need more to drink, head around the corner to Fizz Bar & Grill, which celebrates its 12th Anniversary tonight with $1 well drinks, $2 bottles of Bud and Bud Light, $3 champagne cocktails and free passed hors d'oeuvres. Find more Wednesday drink deals.
Port Tasting Seminar 6:30-8 p.m. at Randolph Wine Cellars; free
If you've always been curious about port, but too bashful (or broke) to try it out, stop by this West Loop wine shop to taste a number of varieties for free. In keeping with the demystification of the drink, this informal seminar does not require you to show up on time.
A couple quick music announcements we feel you should know about:
The Doom/Mos Def show at Congress Theater, originally scheduled for Friday, has been moved to February 13. We're guessing Doom's impostor had a conflict.
Snoop Dogg is coming to Metro on February 16. Tickets go on sale Saturday at noon. For rizzle.
Spandex 7:30 p.m. at Studio Theater (Chicago Cultural Center); $5
We built this city on storefront theater. The administration knows it, too. In order to nurture everything that makes Chicago great, the Department of Cultural Affairs runs INCUBATOR, a program that gives fledgling companies free space and resources with which to develop new work. This month, the babies of Wishbone (founded in 2009!) present an ensemble piece about "the complexities of heroism." Gosh, we hope that means men in tights.
C.R.O.P. (Chicago Rarities Orchard Project) Benefit Party 6-8 p.m. at Uncommon Ground on Devon; $20
Uncommon Ground unveils its latest "eco-cocktail" at this benefit for the Chicago Rarities Orchard Project, which plants fruit orchards in the city. Your donation gets you a complimentary cocktail, hors d'oeuvres, a raffle and music from DJ Chris Hefner. 21+.
The Joan of Arc Don't Mind Control Variety Show 10 p.m. Friday at Empty Bottle; $10
It's kind of charming. Local mad-track-layer Tim Kinsella has corralled over 40 pals, from A Tundra to new Chin Up, Chin Up outfit Vacations, to take part in both an 18-song record and this special variety show to promote it (emblazoned with Kinsella's always tongue-in-cheek titles). But will he make a good host? There's only one way to find out.
Soup and Bread (and beer)
Well, this seals it: Wednesday is officially soup day in Chicago. As if the free weekly Soup and Bread event at the Hideout weren't enough (the folks from Lula Cafe will be among the guest chefs from 5:30-8 p.m. tonight), Sheffield's is introducing its own slurp-worthy promotion. Starting at 7 p.m. tonight, $15 gets you one of four soups with beer pairings. Not only that, but the bar also hosts the "opening hair-emonies" of 826 Chicago's Moustache-a-thon tonight at 7 p.m. Update: The bar will also host weekly check-ins for the Moustache-a-thon, but tonight's ceremony takes place at 826CHI headquarters, 1331 N. Milwaukee.
Good Goddess Gift Showcase 9 p.m. at darkroom, free
If you've ever wondered where the female representatives of hip-hop are, mark your calendars for the this showcase at darkroom. Sponsored by E Events, this free show will be bringing together some of the most talented female artists around, all of whom are doing their part to redefine the preconceived notions of what an MC can be. Move aside fellas, 'cause it looks like 2010 could be a breakout year for the ladies.
"Hughie" & "Krapp's Last Tape" 7:30 p.m. at Goodman Theatre; $25-$83
What this town needs is a headliner. Brian Dennehy stars in a double bill of classic one-acts designed to show off his Brian Dennehy-ness: "Hughie," an O'Neill about the tragedy of a charming old gambler, and "Krapp," about the memories of a sad old man. The show, directed by superstar Brian Falls, is parking at the Goodman before motoring off to Broadway.
Kit Kat Grand Unveiling Party 6-8 p.m. at Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club; free
The popular Lakeview lounge recently underwent major renovations to create a "South Beach-meets-Hollywood vibe." Come see the new fabric-covered ceilings, animal-print wallpaper and more at the "Revealed" soiree, a white party (read: wear white) including an Effen White-hosted bar and complimentary passed appetizers.
Cabinet of Curiosities 6 p.m. at Museum of Contemporary Art (Puck's at the MCA); free
The MCA's series of "un-lectures" continues with a presentation curated by No Coast, the Pilsen gallery and art store. "Heaven Is Real" will be themed around our relationship with death and dying, including performances from Acephalous, Andre Callot, Brandon Joyce and others. For more, check out Centerstage's interview with No Coast. Don't forget, the MCA is free all day today. Juniper Mays 8 p.m. at Reggie's Music Joint; $5
Folk and bluegrass group Juniper Mays – Robert McHugh, Erik Smith, Dan Schmelzer and Kyle Hendrix – pays lighthearted ode to the "trials and tribulations of living life," "women" and "Ireland," among many other twenty-something struggles. It's all nestled within Phish guitars, chug-a-lug bass trains and McHugh's slightly rusted pipes, which invite comparisons to the Avett Brothers and O.A.R. Mr. Blotto also performs.
Mental Graffiti 8 p.m. at Butterfly Social Club; $5 donation
Show off your creativity at this monthly open poetry slam in River West; you'll have the chance to win $20, plus the opportunity to compete for a spot on the Mental Graffiti team at the 2010 National Poetry Slam. Whether you're performing or not, make sure to stick around for a set from 24-year-old Eboni Hogan, the 2008 Urbana Grand Slam Champion and author of the recent poetry collection "Grits."
New American Table dinner 6:30 p.m. at C-House; $65-$85
Celebrate the release of C-House chef/owner Marcus Samuelsson's new cookbook, New American Table, with a special four-course dinner and reception at the restaurant. After an hour of cocktails and small bites, guests will enjoy cuisine inspired by the cookbook, including smoked trout rillettes, pan-seared wild salmon, beer-braised short ribs, and banana bread pudding, all served with Goose Island craft beer pairings. An extra $20 gets you a signed copy of New American Table.
Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday at Victory Gardens Biograph Theater; free during the day, $10-$15 evening
This second-annual event features a free daytime session with visual art and graffiti from emerging local artists, a B-Boy/B-Girl breakdancing battle, an open-mic showcase, DJs and a lot more. In the evening, check out "The New Style: Hip-Hop Aesthetics Across Genres," an exhibition of "style, mash-ups, collage, and conversation" hosted by Kevin Coval and featuring Waka (of the Brickheadz crew), WBEZ South Side Bureau reporter Natalie Moore, South Side Community Arts Center executive director/curator Faheem Majeedis and others.
What's this worth to you? (photo via ToughSledding)
photo: TVFanatic.com 
