Ten years ago, the Chicago Blackhawks had trouble attracting fans to the United Center. Years of mediocrity coupled with poor ownership decisions led to the Blackhawks being less than an afterthought to most Chicagoans. Last week, the team drew more fans to Soldier Field for the celebration of winning the Stanley Cup than they drew in some seasons!
The Blackhawks were very outdated in their philosophies. The old school of thought was televising home games would translate to empty arenas. This might have been true in the 1950s, but because of this strategy, two generations of potential fans grew up barely knowing anything about the Blackhawks.
The old guard gave way to the new guard several years back, and things started to change. Games started to be televised. The culture started to change. Chicagoans started to discover the team. The Hawks won their third Stanley Cup in six seasons. Previously, they had not won a Stanley Cup since 1961.Last Thursday, there was a citywide celebration like no other. It all started with a two-mile parade through downtown Chicago that ended at Soldier Field, where 70,000-plus fans greeted the champs.
This is as much a business success story as it is a sports story. The Blackhawks turned around their franchise, but they also gave renewed life to so many businesses near the United Center. Suddenly, Chicago’s West Loop was a happening place. The true moral is to listen to your customers and watch your competition. Time had passed the Blackhawks. Now they are setting the pace and the standard.
— John Wroblewski, online contributor
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FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
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Nov 5, 2024Don’t Miss Idaho’s Upcoming Fall, Winter Activities and Events
Boise, Idaho, welcomed a new education center, Philip E. Batt Education Building, this October. Named in honor of former Idaho Governor Phil Batt for his contribution to human rights in the state, the building houses offices for Wassmuth Center for Human Rights, along with a classroom, meeting space, catering kitchen, research library, exhibitions room, gift shop and a human rights-themed art gallery showcasing works from Idaho artists. Here, visitors can explore immersive experiences, including a virtual reality tour of Anne Frank House in Amsterdam and an A.I.-powered interactive display featuring Holocaust survivors’ stories.
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Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
November 2024
Nov 5, 2024Set Off on a Tour of Extraordinary Mechanical Clocks Around the World
It’s approaching 3 o’clock in the afternoon in Bern. Jutting slightly into view at the end of the uneven stone street in the Swiss city’s historic heart stands a medieval tower adorned with the famous 15th-century “time bell,” Zytglogge. A small gathering forms at the tower’s base as the clock prepares to announce the hour — an event heralded by the crowing of a golden rooster, music and a dance of mechanical figures that include an assortment of jolly bears.
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Nov 5, 2024Arlo Washington DC to Debut Nov. 18
Arlo Hotels is slated to make its Washington, D.C., debut. Arlo Washington DC will open its doors in the heart of downtown D.C. on Nov. 18. Situated in the city’s oldest surviving apartment building, the property boasts 445 rooms, plus a 12-story addition.
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Extraordinary Egypt
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS
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Nov 5, 2024AlUla Designated as Gulf Cooperation Council’s First-Ever Dark Sky Park
AlUla, Saudi Arabia, is officially the first destination in Gulf Cooperation Council’s to be designated a Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. This destination continues to commit to minimizing light pollution, preserving and protecting the nighttime environment, and ensuring its skies remain crystal clear for stargazers.
7 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
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Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
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Nov 4, 2024New Boutique Hotel Collection Comes to Tulum
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Nov 3, 2024Daily
Nov 1, 2024SWISS First Lounge Named World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining
Swiss International Air Lines recently ranked No. 1 in the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining category for its first-class lounge in Terminal E at Zürich Airport in the 2024 World Culinary Awards.
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Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever
Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.
November 2024
Nov 1, 2024A Helping Hand
As we edge our way toward winter, I want to remind you how lucky we have been and how we can help those who have not been as fortunate. Please continue to donate to the American Red Cross, which stands ready in any disaster to provide items people need such as water, clothing, food and other supplies.
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