Learnapalooza 2010 a success

This was the theme of the day.

After eight months of diligent planning and coordination, Learnapalooza co-chairs Sarah Press and Maggie Schutz were thrilled to see their vision of an all-day free learning event come alive. From Capoeira Angola to basic improv to independent book publishing to tap dance, the Wicker Park event opened its teachers, students, and volunteers to a new world of community and knowledge.

How to bone a chicken was the lesson from a local chef in the Wicker Park Art Center's kitchen.

"CommuniTeach is all about neighbors teaching each other and helping each other for free," Press said of her organization that is something of a mini-Learnapalooza, "and it was so exciting to see a bigger version of that." As the day wound down, Press was glowing, thrilled to see an entire community "excited to share their knowledge and learn things."

Improv participants admitted to feeling foolish but having lots of fun.

Schutz was also a giddy mess late Saturday afternoon. "I'm feeling a little bit tired, really excited..." Schutz said, trailing away in thought. "Right now, I'm still just trying to finish all the details. You know, making sure I'm taking care of everyone and getting it all set. But I'm pretty happy! I think I'm going to be really disappointed tomorrow because I won't have anything else to do."

For those who had a ball learning to knit or salsa dance or self-hypnotize, or for those who only discovered the event at day's end from excited community members, the good news is the same: Learnapalooza 2011 is already in the works!

In search of peace a circle of people learned the art of meditation.

But you don't have to wait a year to get into the spirit and enhance your skills.

"We're hoping to capitalize on the momentum of the free learning with a bunch of smaller Learn-its throughout the summer," said Press. She went on to explain that Learn-its are "like mini-Learnapaloozas" with "one or two free community-taught workshops."

Stay tuned for further details at both Learnapalooza and Communiteach.

Editor's note: What was your experience at the day of learning or what are you looking to learn?  Leave comments on this story.

More Info: Maggie Schutz Interview