You want Harold? You got him

As the late Chicago Mayor Harold Washington would say to crowds, “You want Harold? You got him.” The city once again is marking his April birthday

below, from the Chicago Public Library……

CPL’S ANNUAL HAROLD WASHINGTON BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOCUSES ON FORMER AND PRESENT CHICAGO CULTURAL PLANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 22, 2012

The Chicago Public Library continues its annual Harold Washington Birthday Celebration with a free program that examines how a Chicago Cultural Plan was initiated during Mayor Washington’s administration and how a new cultural plan is being developed to address the city’s cultural needs today. Julie Burros, Director of Cultural Planning of the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), will present an illustrated talk on Chicago Cultural Plans, 1986 & 2012, on Thursday, April 12, at 6 p.m. in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium of the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.

The city’s last cultural plan was developed in 1986. Ideas that sprang from that plan include the renovation of Navy Pier, the redeveloped Downtown Theater District and the creation of incentives for film projects.

With a new generation of citizens and technological advancements, the city is asking residents, cultural organizations and community groups for their input in developing a new Chicago Cultural Plan. The 2012 plan will deliver a set of recommendations to support the arts and artists throughout the city, as well as enhance economic growth and Chicago’s reputation as a global cultural destination. Learn how you can be involved in creating the 2012 Cultural Plan at this program.

The Chicago Public Library continues to encourage lifelong learning by welcoming all people and offering equal access to information, entertainment and knowledge through materials, programs and cutting-edge technology.

The Chicago Public Library is comprised of the Harold Washington Library Center, two regional libraries and more than 70 neighborhood branches. All locations provide free access to a rich collection of books, DVDs, audio books and music; the Internet and WiFi; newspapers and magazines; sophisticated research databases, many of which can be accessed from a home or office computer. Each location continues to serve as a cultural center, presenting the highest quality author discussions, exhibits and programs for children, teens and adults.