Chicago to welcome WFO fellows in April 2000

The vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A., is the place to be in April 2000. The historic 2^nd Meeting of the WFO will convene during the 100^th Annual Session of the American Association of Orthodontists and the 5^th International Orthodontic Congress April 28-May 3, 2000.

Chicago is home to world-class businesses, educational institutions, museums, entertainment venues, cultural attractions, shopping, dining and professional sports. Visitors find a wide range of enjoyable activities - many along Lake Michigan and near McCormick Place Convention Center, the largest convention facility in North America and site of the 100^th AAO Annual Session.

By the end of April, Chicago’s spring season is in full bloom. Daytime high temperatures average in the mid to upper 60s.

Approximately 50 museums are located in Chicago. Dramatic dinosaur exhibits are on permanent display at the Field Museum of Natural History. Walk through a 16-foot reproduction of a human heart or get a feel for life under the ocean by touring a German U-505 submarine - both of these exhibits are on display at the Museum of Science and Industry. The Shedd Aquarium is the world’s largest indoor aquarium. The Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum was the first planetarium built in the Western Hemisphere. It features a multi-media sky show and scientific exhibits on astronomy, navigation, space exploration and telescopes. The classic work of art, "American Gothic," is part of the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. It has one of the largest impressionist collections in the world. The Museum of Contemporary Art is devoted to painting, sculpture, crafts, graphics and other works by contemporary artists. The Lincoln Park Zoo, the oldest public zoo in the United States, is in the heart of the city and has no admission fee.

Navy Pier, a landmark on Lake Michigan since 1916, houses the Chicago Children’s Museum. The Navy Pier’s 50 acres are filled with parks, gardens, shops and boutiques. Just for fun, try a ride on the 150-foot-high Ferris wheel or the beautiful carousel.

Chicago has several convenient shopping districts that have a vast and diverse selection of goods. Along State Street, immortalized in song as "that great street," is one of the best-known shopping districts in the world. The Magnificent Mile, aptly named for its distinguished shops, is located along North Michigan Avenue. Just off the Magnificent Mile is Oak Street, which features shops that offer styles from prestigious worldwide designers. The River North neighborhood beckons shoppers with fashions, art galleries, auction houses and jewelers - many to be found in the Merchandise Mart in the southern part of the River North neighborhood.

For nightlife, Chicago is second to none. Nightclubs feature a wide variety of music - jazz and blues, Dixieland, big band, rock and bluegrass. See the comedy stars of the future at the Second City or Improv Olympic comedy clubs. Both have launched many famous names in contemporary show business.

Dining is an experience in Chicago. Try an authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza, sample ethnic specialties, be immersed in sports memorabilia at Michael Jordan’s Restaurant, or enjoy fine dining at Chicago’s many gourmet restaurants.

Chicago is served by Midway Airport and O’Hare International Airport. O’Hare has held the title of the "World’s Busiest Airport" for 30 years. Domestic and international air carriers make Chicago an accessible destination from almost anywhere in the world.

The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau can provide more information on what to do when visiting Chicago. Visit the informative Web site on the Internet at www.chicago.il.org or call 312-567-8500 for information.