I didn't know that a Chicago accent even existed until I came to Florida. Suddenly, any time I spoke someone would say "Da Bears!"
The first time you speak to a girl, I'd let them take the lead at first but DEFINITELY ask anything you want to know. They will want to introduce themselves and ask a few basic questions, but they will be very impressed if you ask them questions as well and they will be especially impressed if you know something about their group. Doing your homework pays off. Don't dominate the conversation because that's not what you'd do when meeting someone for the first time. These girls want to get to know you but you need to get to know them too! I know a lot of the stuff I say may sound contradictory, but it's all about balance. All you really need to do is have a good conversation. Feel free to open up and be yourself... robotic answers will not give the girls a look into your personality and you may not get the "fit" you want.
USChica, are you from the burbs or the city? I lived under an O'Hare flight path.
And good luck!