Hello from the Windy City!
Leroy R. Allala, executive director of the Chicago Sister Cities International Program
"I love to hear stories or news about sister cities. Welcome to Busan's sister city, Chicago," said Leroy R. Allala, the executive director of the Chicago Sister Cities International Program.
Allala is a true Chicago native and attended school here. Despite his busy schedule, he gave a warm welcome to a reporter from Chicago's sister city, Busan.
We sat down to talk about the characteristic charms of one of America's greatest cities.
A city of architecture
Chicago boasts more fun nicknames than any other city in the United States. Most noticeably, it is a city of architecture. After losing some of its greatest structures during the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, a slew of magnificent and unique buildings began to emerge, rising to become a mecca of modern architecture.
Because it's home to many a wondrous edifice, it attracts not only tourists but also throngs of architecture students. Dynamic Busan met Allala at an auspicious time, as the Chicago Architecture Biennial was about to kick off. The event, attended by some 30 nations across the globe, is scheduled to run through Jan. 3.
"America's architecture biennial may not sound familiar, but actually Chicago is the go-to city when it comes to architecture," said the director. "The city holds special significance as it was here when the very first skyscrapers and elevators were built. The residents in the city are very proud of the architectural festival."
Allala highly recommended an open house tour near Millennium Park, a special annual event run by the Chicago Architecture Foundation during which visitors can get to see the inside of otherwise off-limit buildings free of charge.
Otherwise, the director emphasized that visitors cannot but fall for the charms of Chicago when exploring buildings like the Willis Tower, Marina City and the Wrigley Building.
Keeping in touch with Busan
Allala also elaborated on the various exchanges under way between Chicago and Busan.
"A high-profile breast cancer-related symposium is being held in Chicago, where research and data collection regarding breast cancer are conducted through joint efforts with other cities. One of them is Busan. Other endeavors include art, music and education."
According to Allala, the Windy City's best charm is that its green areas juxtapose with sky-piercing buildings.
Its residents can take in the view of the cityscape from the park and revel in the wide range of festivals that unfold on its spacious outdoor stage.
All kinds of soirees take place in the parks, with themes varying from blues, jazz and food, like Chicago Gourmet. These parks provide a great venue for Chicagoans and tourists alike, as Mr. Allala pointed out. "Please make sure to put Chicago on your travel itinerary if you visit America. With the city's awesome festivals and parks, you will not be disappointed."
When he was handed Busan's English-language newspaper, Dynamic Busan, he said, "We subscribed to this paper when our office was in the Culture Center but we haven't gotten a copy since we moved to the International Sister Cities Center. We'll update the address to get a copy," he added, giving a big thumbs-up.
Written by Lee Gwi-young
Copyright 2015, 'Dynamic Busan' all rights reserved.
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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