Chicago Star April 2022 Together Again

Candid Candace Jordan gets cookin’ with Gene & Georgetti Chef Cristiano Bassani Page 5

CHICAGO STAR

VOL. 2 NO. 4

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APRIL 2022

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West Loop NEWS New Eastside NEWS Chicagoans embrace return of traditions Streeterville NEWS The Easter Bunny of The 900 Shops returns April 8-16. Photo Courtesy of The 900 Shops

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A time for growth and change As the days grow warmer, we feel thankful for all of the reminders that life continues to thrive here in Chicago, from the blossoming of botanical displays around town to the return of our favorite Easter pastimes.

In our April issue of the Chicago Star, we explore the special moments that bring us together and the unique beauty that our community has to offer. In addition to a round-up of classic springtime entertainment, we’re proud to present guides to experiencing the natural wonders at Chicago’s conservatories and celebrating Earth Day through volunteer opportunities. Be sure to check out our monthly bulletin for a collection of curated news highlights, from Adler Planetarium’s reopening to a new arrival at Lincoln Park Zoo. Spring is a season of renewal and reflection, and as we enter the next chapter in our story, we appreciate the support of our readers and advertisers more than ever. Help us continue our mission of providing positive local news with a print or digital Chicago Star subscription, and stay up-to-date on our latest coverage with our weekly City Buzz newsletter — our website, chicagostarmedia.com, offers sign-up options for both features.

Just like the flowers in bloom all around us, we look forward to future opportunities to grow.

- The team at Chicago Star Media Background photo by Євгенія Височина on Unsplash

CHICAGO STAR BOARD MEMBERS MANOLIS ALPOGIANIS

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MAUREEN AND MARC SCHULMAN

TOM KEHOE

President, Eli’s Cheesecake Company

MICHAEL KUTZA

Chef/Author, Co-founder, Common Threads

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JULIE BARRISH

Chicago Star is a monthly paper that uses community writers and contributors. The views expressed by community contributors are their own. Chicago Star Media does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. Chicago Star Media is independently owned and operated.

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SHERREN LEIGH

Founder, Associated Publications

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ALEXANDER PISSIOS

Former Chicago Tribune Food Critic

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Now Enrolling: PreK-Grade 12

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NURTURE YOUR CHILD'S

CURIOSITY 955 W. Grand Ave (West Loop)

312.BENNETT (236-6388)

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Candid Candace CITY SEEN

GiGi’s Playhouse hosts “i have a voice” gala Executive Board President Bret Bowerman and family.

Valente and Jaimie Rios and Gala Co-Chair GiGi Gianni (center).

Austin Roger, Olivia Kirchner, Matt Mulligan, Shannon Miller, Olivia Mole, Ryan Ambrose

The Cause: GiGi’s Playhouse, the first ever Down syndrome achievement center, held its annual national “i have a voice” gala at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. Founded by Nancy Gianni (Chief Belief Officer) in 2003, this nonprofit is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome through free educational and therapeutic-based programs.

The Setting: Over 475 guests, clad in elegant black-tie, enjoyed a high-energy evening co-hosted by the organization’s namesake, GiGi Gianni, a 19-year-old with Down syndrome, and model/actress and leading disability awareness advocate Amanda Booth. (Amanda has been featured on the cover of Vogue Magazine with Micah, her son with Down syndrome.)

The Scene: Attendees received the “red carpet treatment” at this fundraiser featuring live music from the Barrington School of Rock. Seen on the scene were Chicago Bears wide receiver Wendell Davis and Super Bowl champion Anthony Hargrove, among other former NFL players. During the dinner program, the Gen G Award was presented to Jaimie Rios of Accurate Personnel. The event concluded with guests dancing the night away to live music from the 7th Heaven band, followed by a late-night pizza party. The event raised $479,000. Today, this fast-growing network has 60 playhouses and start-ups in the U.S. and Mexico and serves families in 81 countries. Photos courtesy of GiGi’s Playhouse

Sophia Sanchez, Generation G Award recipient.

Former NFL player Sean Cattouse (of the San Diego Chargers) and Cristian Richardson.

Jon and Patti Stickney with Jodi, Terry and Jack Feller (front).

Tom Serpento, Nancy Gianni (Gigi’s Playhouse founder), Reggie Smith (of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers).

Chris and Grace Winston

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APRIL 2022 / 5

GET COOKIN’ WITH...

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Gene & Georgetti Chef Cristiano Bassani

By Candid Candace Jordan

Associate Publisher veryone who visited Gene & Georgetti restaurant wanted to become a member of the Mahogany Club. This club was not open for membership, per se. You had to be a well-liked regular to earn this distinction from other club members, who gathered faithfully for lunches around the mahogany bar where the late Terry “Whitey” Pearson, a legendary adman in the heyday of WGN TV, held court.

The Mahogany Club days are behind us now with many of the longtime members gone, but the atmosphere, the food, the ambiance, and the joie de vivre Gene & Georgetti Chef Cristiano Bassani. remain intact at this popular, much-loved Italian restaurant located in the Gibson, Danny Glover, Vince Vaughn and Will Ferrell, along with international, heart of River North at 500 N. Franklin St. national and local politicians, have been, The restaurant was founded in 1941 by and continue to be, frequent guests at this Italian immigrants Gene Michelotti and award-winning culinary gem. his partner Alfredo Federighi. Alfredo had Head Chef Cristiano Bassani, a 36-year the kitchen and Gene was the front man, industry veteran, helms the kitchen. His holding down the bar. Gene’s genuine and love of cooking came from his mother, who vivacious personality made him a hit with he cooked with almost every day. Further all who visited. Tony Durpetti, Gene’s soninstruction came from three years of culiin-law, carried on this tradition regaling nary school in Italy where he was trained diners with jokes and stories from his days

by Northern Italian chefs who taught him as CEO of his own radio advertising firm. “old school, tough love.” He loves being Now, 80 years later, this classic Italian a part of the G&G “family” and is a huge steakhouse is still flourishing under the fan of Michael Jordan, whom he met on leadership of managing partners Michelle Christmas Eve in the restaurant.

Durpetti, her husband Collin Pierson Of his many specialties, risotto is one of and owners Marion (the daughter of the restaurant’s founder Gene Michelotti) and his favorites. He says, “As a Northern Italian, we take to risotto like a fish to water. her husband Tony Durpetti. Michelle, a The chefs who trained me in Italy always third-generation family member, and her emphasized the ability to create a beautiful team, have faithfully and energetically risotto, so, that is something I have carried kept this restaurant thriving, through with me my entire life. The risotto I am both COVID and a horrible fire that almost closed the restaurant for good. But, sharing with you is a classic preparation, with taleggio and radicchio. It is the perfect as in decades past, Gene’s remains a labor expression of the Italian term “agrodolce” of love for the family and a popular haunt which means “bitter with sweet.” The for the regulars, politicians and celebcreamy taleggio plays super well with the rities who have called it home. Legends bitter fresh radicchio. Buon appetito!” like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Lucille Find the full recipe online at Ball as well as modern-day celebrities chicagostarmedia.com. like Russell Crowe, Keanu Reeves, Mel

E

Happy Passover!

With spring comes Passover, a Jewish celebration that marks the Israelites freedom from slavery. But the holiday also symbolizes rebirth and celebrates community and family with a traditional seder on the first night of the eight-day celebration. This is where we dig into delicious traditional dishes like matzah ball soup!

At Mariano’s Skokie store, we partner with Skokie-based Kosher catering company Zelda’s to provide traditional prepared Passover foods to our customers. But if you’re ready to tackle the recipes yourself, Linda Neiman, president of Zelda’s Catering, shared their recipe for the perfect matzah ball soup. Make it, share it with loved ones, and use the opportunity to connect and reflect with loved ones. Chag Sameach!

CHICKEN SOUP AND MATZAH BALLS Serves 10-12 For the soup: 2 cups onion, chopped 1 cup carrot, chopped 1 cup celery, chopped 4 garlic cloves, peeled 1 5-pound chicken, cut into 1/8ths 1 gallon water 1 rosemary sprig 1 thyme sprig 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 parsley sprig 2 bay leaves In an 8-quart stock pot, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic. Sauté until brown, 2-3 minutes. Add chicken, water and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil then reduce to low and simmer for an hour and a half. When the matzah balls are ready, add to the soup at least an hour before serving, so they can soak up some broth (but not too much).

For the matzah balls: 4 eggs ½ cup seltzer 1/3 cup oil 1 cup matzah meal 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Matzah Ball Soup ¼ teaspoon white pepper 10 cups water In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, seltzer and oil. Whisk with a fork until light and fluffy. In a medium bowl, combine matzah meal, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder and white pepper.

Mix until well combined. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until evenly combined.

Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.

Bring water to a rolling bowl, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Scoop the matzah batter into 2-ounce or 2-inch balls. Drop matzah balls into simmering water and let cook for 30-40 minutes.

Remove from water and place on cookie sheet to cool. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying.

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Hopping around Chicago for some Easter fun

By Candid Candace Jordan

l

Associate Publisher

Get ready for spring events in city parks: The Great Chicago Egg Hunt at Maggie Daley Park, Lakeshore East Easter Egg Hunt and Community Egg Hunt at Mandrake (Henry Brown) Park.

Egg hunt in Chicago Park District’s Mandrake (Henry Brown) Park. [Photos are from previous events]

Popular blogger Katie Cahnmann with the Easter Bunny.

Tails in the City’s annual Easter Bunny photo opp for dogs.

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Egg Hunt in Maggie Daley Park.

Board member Leslie Hindman as the Easter Bunny.

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The best bunnies, brunches and egg hunts in downtown Chicago

By Angela Gagnon Community Contributor Spring has sprung and with it comes bunny photos, big family brunches and colorful, entertaining egg hunts.

Macy’s State Street Bunny Brunch at the Walnut Room, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10, and Saturday, April 16.

Enjoy a delicious brunch and an appearance by the Easter Bunny. Each child will receive a plush toy. For more information, including the menu, visit macyswalnutroom.com.

The Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Lincoln Park Zoo is back from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 16. The event will feature egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny and free rides on the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel and Lionel Train Adventure. Visit lpzoo.org to register.

Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier will host an Easter brunch with the Bunny from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, April 1. Bring a camera for a photo op with the star of spring.

For an indulgent splurge, dine at The Peninsula Chicago for a lavish Easter buffet brunch from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, April 17. Book on exploretock.com.

The Signature Room at the 95th will offer a complimentary welcome toast and a three-course plated brunch menu with an appearance from the Easter Bunny, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 17.

Check out Carnivale for an Easter Tapas Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Easter Sunday. For more information and the menu, visit carnivalechicago.com.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 17, the IO Godfrey Roofscape will host an Easter brunch buffet. Entertainment will include a visit from the Easter Bunny, an egg hunt and face painting. Reserve on exploretock.com.

The Waldorf Astoria’s The Brasserie will serve Easter dinner Sunday, April 17 including grilled lamb loin and an extensive wine list and fashionable cocktails.

Lirica will offer an a la carte Easter brunch on Navy Pier between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Easter Sunday. Enjoy classic favorites alongside Latin inspired flavors with a waterfront view. Kids can indulge in the Kids Sweet Buffet and adults can enjoy the bottomless Bloody Mary bar.

The Park District is hosting several in person family

EASTER ORATORIO Apr 10, 7:30 pm

North Shore Center, Skokie

Apr 11, 7:30 pm

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Easter Egg-Stravaganza will be held April 16.

friendly bunny events in the parks. From 8-9:30 p.m.

Friday, April 15, head to Sheridan Park to partake in an evening egg hunt. Flashlights will help guests find the hidden eggs in the dark. The event is for ages 3-13 and costs $2. Sheridan Park will also host a free bunny holiday egg hunt for ages 3-12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 16. Kids ages 6-12 can participate in a unique egg hunt in the pool from 5-6:30 p.m. that evening. Bring your own basket and swim gear. For more information and to register, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com.

The Great Chicago Egg Hunt at Maggie Daley Park will be back this year April 9, so get egg-cited! Save the date, with more information to come.

CHORUS & ORCHESTRA

Harris Theater, Chicago

Dame Jane Glover leads the Music of the Baroque Chorus, Orchestra, and four world renowned soloists—Yulia Van Doren, Elizabeth DeShong, James Gilchrist, and Michael Sumuel—in Bach’s imaginative Easter Oratorio, a journey from a cavern’s darkness into the magnificent light of heaven.

Dame Jane Glover, conductor Yulia Van Doren, soprano Elizabeth DeShong, mezzo-soprano James Gilchrist, tenor Michael Sumuel, bass-baritone

baroque.org | 312.551.1414

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Earth Day brings world together to celebrate health of the planet

By Joseph Luther Freelance Reporter With the 24-hour media cycle saturating every moment of every day, it’s not hard to get overwhelmed by the news. It can make you want to pull a blanket over your head and say, “Look, I’ve got problems of my own. What can I do to really make a difference, anyway?”

Enter Earth Day. Observed every April 22 since 1970, it’s become the one day each year for people the world over to get back on the same page, with the health of the Earth in mind.

EarthDay.Org, the global organizer of the event, has named “Invest in Our Planet” this year’s Earth Day theme. The group works with more than 150,000 partners in more than 192 countries to “drive positive action in the interest of the planet.” The goal behind this year’s theme is to focus the world’s attention on “creating a 21st century economy that brings back the health of our planet, protects our species and provides opportunities for all.” For individuals and businesses that want to help promote the event, EarthDay.Org is the place to go for logos, graphics, hashtags and other promotional content.

Chicago businesses and organizations across the area will be participating in a range of fun, educational and impactful events as a reminder to encourage

McCormick Woods volunteers work to restore natural areas by removing invasive species.

Chicago Conservation Corps members create compost boxes. Photos courtesy of Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

governments, businesses and fellow citizens to use the rest of the year to make the Earth a healthier place for everyone.

Compost to your utmost What is composting and why is it important? When organic waste, such as kitchen scraps, accumulate in landfills, it produces methane, one of the most potent greenhouse gasses.

Composting diverts this waste from landfills and essentially turns it back into soil, so it can be used again.

Depending on your consumer and eating habits, choosing to compost can reduce your environmental impact even more than recycling. And when you’re already separating trash for recycling, adding one more bin for compost is a snap.

Not sure where to begin?

For those with yard space,

residential composting can be as simple as tossing compostable material, such as table scraps and some paper products, into a bin. But a growing number of collection services and drop-off locations make composting convenient even for residents of Chicago’s most metropolitan areas, including apartment dwellers.

And when it’s time for planting, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago offers “Exceptional Quality” compost for starting plants, or as mulch for established plants. Better yet they’ll deliver 10 yards or more of compost free to schools, non-profit organizations and residents. Visit mwrd. org for details.

Visit IFSC online for comprehensive Illinois composting resources, including a list of compost

collection services (illinoiscomposts.org). Many of the farmers markets in Chicago also have compost dropoff locations which can be more economical than a weekly pick-up service.

Curb appeal Why toss it to the curb when you can bring it to the zoo? The Brookfield Zoo is hosting an Earth Day “Party for the Planet” to dispose of computers, electronics, clothing and books that need an Earth-friendly exit from your basement or garage. Stop by Saturday, April 23, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. There is no charge to drop off recycling. Visit their website for a complete list of accepted items and to learn more.

Pick a park, any park During the week of April 16-24, Rotary Districts

around the Great Lakes will conduct cleanup projects in the Great Lakes watershed. In Chicago, on April 16, Rotary Club of Chicago Citywide Service, with the help of numerous other community organizations, will focus their volunteer efforts on Chicago’s front yard, Grant Park. Sign up to help on their Facebook page.

The Chicago Park District and Friends of the Parks are other great places to start to sign up or learn more about Chicago park and recreation area Earth Day events. Learn more at chicagoparkdistrict.com and fotp.org.

Go hardcore with the Chicago Conservation Corps If you’d like to make a deeper commitment to the health of the environment (and you’re over 18), consider joining the Chicago Conservation Corps. A collaboration of the Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and other partners across the city,

the group recruits, trains, and supports a network of volunteers who work together to improve the quality of life through environmental service projects in neighborhoods and schools across Chicago. To learn more, visit chicagoconservationcorps.org.

There are gaggles of home-grown city-sponsored environmental programs you may have never heard of, right here in town. Visit the city’s environment and sustainability page at chicago.gov to learn about retrofitting commercial, residential and municipal buildings for increased energy efficiency; sustainable city transportation options; and eco-friendly strategies to manage the city’s natural areas.

Creating a green, sustainable Chicago requires hard work, cooperation and a commitment from local government, individuals and businesses. Stay in the loop by signing up for the monthly Chicago Sustainability E-Newsletter on the city’s website.

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Dear Candid Candace: I was just “defriended” on Facebook by a longtime friend. I can’t see their feed anymore and miss it and them. Facebook was basically the only way we kept in touch.

Our friendship, made up of likes, pokes and emojis, was satisfying. Although I haven’t seen this person in the flesh for 15 years, I still feel jilted and I’m having a hard time getting over it. Why would she do this to me? Maybe I posted something she didn’t like? Please help me move on more quickly.

— Ms. Sad Face Emoji Dear Ms. Sad Face Emoji: These days, it seems we all live or die through social media, which is so sad. I believe Facebook was initially intended to bring people together but it appears to be a tool that can also drive us apart. I’m sorry this “defriending” has affected you so badly but, in reality, how close could you be if you haven’t seen each other in 15 years?

I doubt that you were “defriended” for over-sharing or discussing controversial topics, which sometimes can rub people the wrong way. It could have been something as simple as jealousy. In any case, you might use this experience to remind yourself of who your real friends are and be grateful for them. Or, you might consider the fact that social media is playing too big a role in your life.

Dear Candid Candace: I’m a victim of over-plucking my eyebrows and now they don’t seem to be growing back. I can’t keep my hands off the tweezers! Please tell me if you have any advice for someone like me.

I love makeup and enjoy the application process but looking into my magnifying

mirror, I see so much that I want to change.

Any advice for a problem like mine?

— Over-Plucker Dear Over-Plucker: Yours is such a common problem and it seems to have been an issue for a very long time. In my mother’s day, it was a thing to have tiny, thinly shaped brows. She was a master over-plucker and hers never grew back. When she was older, I took her to have her eyebrows tattooed on and it was a complete transformation.

She loved it! So, there are tools to help with the problem but this solution might be too drastic for some. My brows have always been thin too so I feel your pain. A few years ago, I tried neuBROW Enhancing Serum, which was suggested to me by a top Chicago makeup artist. It definitely worked, but the drawback was that it is very expensive. Before you try out any of these suggestions, make sure to consult with your doctor as all products have risks. I stopped using the serum long ago and decided it was cheaper to learn how to use a brow pencil. Also, you shouldn’t fret over what you see in a magnifying mirror—no one will ever be that close to you anyway.

Send questions to: CandidCandace@ ChicagoStarMedia.com. Follow Candid Candace (Candace Jordan) on Facebook, Insta, LinkedIn and Twitter.

C E L E B R AT I N G BRILLIANT MINDS

Woman can’t move on after being ‘jilted’ by social media friend

APRIL 2022 / 9

Mark your calendars for the 2022 Minds Matter Benefit, celebrating brilliant minds!

Friday, May 20, 2022 Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago Proceeds from this event will support Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute of Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, which has been at the forefront of research and clinical advances in brain and spine tumor treatment and management for many years.

When you support Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, you will be joining a team that is in relentless pursuit of better medicine for patients with brain tumors.

For questions or event information, contact Kristyn Eskridge at keskridg@nm.org or call 312.926.7133.

10 / APRIL 2022

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| COMMUNITY CORNER |

Doorperson of the Month

Pizza + Jazz

If You Missed The Sold Out Premier

of Dennis & Gail’s Documentary: “The History of South Streeterville” it will be available to watch online soon! Contact Gail for more info & keep your eyes out for future sponsored showings of the film in Streeterville!

Gail Spreen—Your Streeterville Expert (312) 925-7668 Gail@StreetervilleProperties.com

Lawanda Brown, 800 N. Michigan Ave.

By Susan Berkes Freelance Reporter Located on the Magnificent Mile, directly across the street from Water Tower Place and just a short walk from Oak St. Beach, 800 N. Michigan Ave. is among the most desirable locations in Chicago. And the site is made even better by Lawanda Brown greeting residents and visitors as they walk through the door.

With the popular address housing eight businesses—including a hotel, shopping and dining—all under the same roof, residents seem to get the “I’m home” feeling when Brown offers her personal greetings to everyone going in and out. Her goal is to “make everyone smile.”

According to Brown, winter time is quieter than usual in terms of residency and responsibilities because a number of people leave for Florida during those months.

“It’s nice when it’s less busy, so you have even more time for people,” she said.

Her shift varies and sometimes includes overnight hours, which she doesn’t mind. As with most residences in the COVID-19 era, the role of doorperson comes with new responsibilities, including maintaining cleanliness and keeping track of the large volumes of deliveries.

Brown comes from a security guard background

Lawanda Brown, a door staff member at 800 N. Michigan Ave., is Doorperson of the Month. Photos by Susan Berkes

was born and raised in Chicago and enjoys bowling with her family in her spare time.

Brown has served other residential locations throughout the area, and now appears to be perfectly content serving the residents at 800 N. Michigan.

800 N. Michigan Ave.

and has been helping residents with their luggage, groceries, packages and food deliveries at the condominium building for nearly six years. She

To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be the doorperson of the month.

Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.

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APRIL 2022 / 11

Make sure kids know you have their back

I

wrote recently about the need for parents heading back to the office to honestly explain to their kids why they work. I said avoid blaming it Howard Tullman on the need to make COMMUNITY money in favor of CONTRIBUTOR more meaningful reasons, such as trying to make a difference in our own and in others’ lives.

There’s another conversation we need to have with our kids as they return to the real world. They will be inundated with peer pressure after soaking in all the social media junk, the fake lives and lies of influencers, and all the other noise and clutter online.

It’s natural to want to prepare the path and prevent or protect your kids from what they will face. But if you can’t prepare the path, you can at least try to prepare your kids for the journey.

There are many resources, experts and opinions about what to do and say in this regard. My advice comes from my own particular experience and expertise—decades of hiring thousands of new employees and seeing what attitudes, mindsets and mental tools helped them succeed.

My own daughters, of course, would never admit father knows best, so take my advice with a grain of salt.

Tell your kids three very important things.

1. You love them unconditionally and always will. Eventually they’ll learn that you make your own luck and fortune in life, but it helps a lot to feel loved in the meantime. Having your folks have your back is the best way to start. Friends come and go, but your family is always there for you.

2. It’s OK to fail sometimes as long as you gave it your best, but it’s not OK to quit in the middle. Giving them permission to fail without accepting those failures

as warranted or inevitable is critical. Save the alibis, explanations and blame for someone else. There’s no such thing in the real world as a good excuse.

3. Learn to let things go. Not everything can be fixed, finished or saved. Mistakes happen to everyone. The trick is not to dwell on them. Fix them, learn from them, make the best of them that you can, and

move on. The best athletes have “in game amnesia”— they forget the past flops, missed shots and bad calls so they can focus 100% on the present and make the next shot count.

Howard Tullman is a Chicago Star board member and G2T3V general managing partner

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Chicago’s conservatories offer urban oasis

By Joseph Luther Freelance Reporter April in Chicago is a time of hope. You can feel it rising like a tide in your chest. Unlike some other cities, the change of the seasons here is dramatic.

Historically, the temperature rises nearly every day in April and the heavy gray skies of winter give way to the endless blue of summer. Flowers begin to bloom and there’s no better time to renew commitments to old friends and resolutions.

For many, that sense of renewal includes a recommitment to the earth. A time for raking, hoeing and planting.

A time to break open the tool shed. Whether you’re an old green thumb or you’re digging into gardening for the first time, Chicago’s many conservatories are ripe with resources that will get you on your way. Or, if you just can’t wait for spring to pop and you need to get a head start, the city’s conservatories are a great way to get back into green.

Kilbourn Greenhouse Established in the 1930s, Kilbourn Park’s Organic Greenhouse has been a fixture of Chicago life for nearly a century. By the 1970s it had fallen into disrepair and was listed to be demolished. The community rallied in the park to save it and, in the 90s, Kilbourn Park became the city’s only teaching greenhouse. With year-round educational programming, the greenhouse welcomes volunteers in spring, summer and fall.

The Kilbourn Greenhouse plant sale, marking 26 years, is the place to buy affordable ($3 each), organic plants and varieties not sold in big box store garden centers. This year’s in-person sale is May 14-15.

“If you have children, plan to come on Sunday as it will be more laid back, and we are hoping to secure musicians and Forest Play Schools of Illinois will be organizing pop-in nature play in the adjacent nature play space,” said Renee Costanzo, program specialist.

Chicago Botanic Garden The Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre “living plant museum” featuring 28 distinct gardens and four natural areas. Opened to the public in 1972, the facility is managed by the Chicago Horticultural Society, accredited by the American Association of Museums and a member of the American Public Gardens Association.

The facility offers onsite and online classes taught by experts on topics ranging from gardening fundamentals to yoga

Visitors explore the diverse collection of flora at the Chicago Botanic Garden, which features 28 distinct gardens and four natural areas. Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

and photography. A “plant information service” provides online resources for amateur and expert horticulturalists with DIY gardening tips and techniques. A “Grand Tram Tour” runs daily, beginning in April. The 2.3-mile narrated tour touches on the history and science of the gardens and viewing highlights including the McDonald Woods, Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden and the Learning Campus.

Lincoln Park Conservatory The Lincoln Park Conservatory, built between 1890 and 1895, is a wonderful winter escape for cold-weary Chicagoans. The conservatory is designed to showcase exotic plants as well as grow the thousands of plants found in the parks, offering a tropical experience across its four display houses: Palm House, Fern Room, Orchid House and Show House. Visit on the weekend for a free guided tour.

The conservatory’s spring flower show theme this year, “Pillars of Spring,” will showcase plants grown vertically to serve as an inspiration to visitors with limited spaces to grow in urban settings.

“The show runs through Mother’s Day, May 8,” said Mary Eysenbach, Chicago Park District Director of Conservatories. “It’s so great to be able to walk around all the different houses at the conservatory and breathe the fresh air and perfume from the vast collection of flowering trees and shrubs year-round.”

The Lincoln Park Conservancy, the nonprofit champion of the park, breaks ground this spring on its largest capital

project, the $7.3 million restoration of North Pond. Learn more about their work at lincolnparkconservancy.org.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a natural history museum operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. For 165 years, the Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has served a unique role in the city connecting children of all ages to nature and science through immersive exhibits, fun family events, important conservation research and in-depth education programs.

The museum offers a variety of free and paid learning programs for children and adults.

Garfield Park Conservatory Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest botanical conservatories in the nation. The site showcases thousands of plant species from around the world across eight indoor display gardens. Visitors can enjoy lush flora and tropical temperatures indoors yearround or more than ten acres of outdoor gardens and natural play spaces for children.

Upcoming programs include “The Face Forward Exhibit,” featuring AI designed portraits of teens, and a 2022 spring flower show. The Garfield Park Conservatory’s website also features urban horticulture resources including a compilation of ideas and best practices for home gardeners and composters for growing healthy plants at home.

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A round up of Chicago's top stories Lincoln Park Zoo welcomes first lion cub in 20 years On March 15, an African lion at the Pepper Family Wildlife Center gave birth to a healthy cub as part of a collaborative population management plan across a number of accredited zoos and aquariums. The cub has not yet been named and as it grows, it will stay behind the scenes with its mother, Zari, during the next few months.

Volunteers needed for city cleanup day On April 23, residents throughout Chicago are invited to take part in a citywide Clean & Green Day of Service. During this annual tradition, volunteers and organizations revitalize and beautify areas in their communities through activities such as cleaning up litter and removing weeds. Clean-up project equipment will be provided by the city.

Second round of COVID-19 test kits available U.S. households can now place an order online for additional COVID-19 test kits by visiting covidtests.gov. Each household is eligible for a total of eight tests, meaning homes that ordered a set of four tests in January, when the program started, can now request four more.

CAPS 18th District seeks Easter egg hunt donations Chicago’s 18th District CAPS office plans to host an Easter egg hunt for families and has requested the community’s help in donating candy, baskets and favors for the event. Drop-offs can be made at the 18th District lobby, located at 1160 N. Larrabee St., through April 6. For more information, call (312) 742-5778.

Frida Kahlo’s work on display at largest Chicago exhibit In 40 years.

After two years closed, Adler Planetarium reopens to the public.

Adler Planetarium reopens to public In March, Adler Planetarium began welcoming back guests for the first time since 2020.

The planetarium’s new hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily except Wednesdays, when the site will remain open until 10 p.m. As part of the Illinois Resident Discount Days program, state residents can visit the planetarium for free after 4 p.m. on Wednesdays with proof of residency. Tickets must be reserved or purchased online at adlerplanetarium.org.

Art on theMART announces Kindness Bags event new spring programming returns for third year In partnership with Shedd Aquarium, Art on theMART will introduce two projects centered around the theme of climate change: “Choral,” a piece by Marlena Novak and Jay Yim focused on marine life, and “Floe,” a piece by Carrie Hanson that features the dance company The Seldoms.

This year’s program is scheduled to run each night at 8:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. from April 9 through June 29.

On April 9, Young Professionals Streeterville will host its third annual Kindness Bags event, which offers food and personal care items to underserved community members. Donations will be collected through April 8, and a full wish list of items can be found in the bio of the organization’s Instagram page, @ypstreeterville.

Navy Pier to debut new FlyOver attraction

Smash hit musical about Michael Jackson coming to Chicago

FlyOver, an immersive flight ride from global attractions and hospitality company Pursuit, is bringing its ultimate flying ride to Navy Pier. The attraction will take guests on a multi-sensory journey as they soar over iconic locations and natural wonders from around the globe. Anticipated to open in fall 2023, FlyOver will be located near the Centennial Wheel along Chicago’s vibrant waterfront.

MJ, the smash-hit musical of the Broadway season, will run technical rehearsals and premiere at Broadway In Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre from July 15 to Sept. 10, 2023. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing groupsales@broadwayinchicago.com. For more details, visit broadwayinchicago.com.

Immersive Frida Kahlo exhibit now open Created by the same team that brought the popular “Immersive Van Gogh” to Chicago last year, “Immersive Frida Kahlo” showcases the iconic Mexican painter’s work through imagery projected onto the walls of Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago at 108 W. Germania Place. Tickets start at $40 and can be purchased online at immersive-frida.com.

Bach Week Festival brings classical music to Chicagoland From April 24 through May 12, the Bach Week Festival will highlight the music of Baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach through a series of musical performances at concert halls and churches in Chicago and Evanston. A full list of dates, times and locations can be found at bachweek.org.

Street sweeping resumes in April Starting April 1, the city’s streets and sanitation department will return to its regular street sweeping schedule. City residents can view the street sweepers in real time by using an online tool called Sweeper Tracker, which will be made available in April on the city’s website, chicago.gov.

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| TOP PICK EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@chicagostarmedia.com

EASTER EVENT ROUNDUP April 8

Easter Bunny at The 900 Shops The Easter Bunny is making a comeback at 900 N. Michigan Ave. Each reservation includes a keepsake photo, designer-inspired spring setting, digital photo download, voucher for drop-in art at Bubbles Academy and three hours of complimentary parking. Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, April 8, through Saturday, April 16, The 900 Shops, 900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 3, eventimage.co.

April 9

Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation through June 12, Mercury Theater Chicago.

April 1

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation A new adventure is coming to Chicago.

Inspired by Disney’s original character designs and Christopher Robin’s real-life counterparts, each character comes to life in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation. Featuring the Sherman Brothers’ classic Grammy Award-winning music with other songs by A.A. Milne, this production features stunning life-sized puppetry in a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood. Tickets start at $39, through June 12, Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Ave., (773) 360-7365, winniethepoohshow.com

April 9

Chi-Town Half Marathon & 10K Lace up your running shoes and get ready for the spring racing season.

Other top upcoming races include FinFit Life 5K Fitness Challenge (April 9), Lakefront 10 Miler & 5K (April 10), Mustang Trot 5K (April 10), Landshark Indoor Triathlon (April 23), Tillman Honor Run (April 23) and Ravenswood Run (April 24). 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 601 W. Montrose Ave., runningintheusa.com

April 12

Seth Meyers: Live See one of the top names in entertainment up close and uncensored. Seth

Meyers, Emmy Award-winning writer and host of “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” will be performing live for Chicago fans. Born near Chicago, Meyers attended Northwestern Seth Meyers University, where he got his start in comedy as part of a school improv sketch group. Now, with his comedy credentials preceding him, Meyers is a sure bet for a night of laughs. 7 p.m., tickets start at $119, Vic Theatre, 3145 North Sheffield Ave., (773) 472-0449, victheatre.com

April 16

Uncorked Wine Festival Ready to pop your cork? Then it’s time to wind down with a night of delectable wines surrounded by science and fun at the Museum of Science and Industry.

The “Uncorked” wine festival is returning to Chicago with over 100 wines from around the world. You’ll enjoy after hours access to one of the nation’s most amazing museums, gourmet food and more. Tickets are $70 for general admission and $100 for VIP admission.

7-11 p.m., Museum of Science and In-

Lakeshore East Easter Egg Hunt Children ages 0-12 are invited to take part in this annual egg hunt organized

by Lakeshore East residents and volunteers. To volunteer at the event, contact Events@MagellanDevelopment.com. Arrival time is 9 a.m., and the event begins at 9:30 a.m. Lakeshore East Park, 450 E. Benton Place.

The Great Chicago Egg Hunt Maggie Daley Park’s annual egg hunt returns. Registration and other details will be announced in the coming days on the park’s website. Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St., maggiedaleypark.com

April 10

Dame Jane Glover and the Music of the Baroque.

Music of the Baroque’s Easter Oratorio Dame Jane Glover leads the Music of the Baroque Chorus, Orchestra, and four world renowned soloists in Bach’s imaginative Easter Oratorio, a journey from a cavern’s darkness into the magnificent light of heaven.7:30 p.m., Sunday, April 10, at North Shore Center in Skokie and 7:30 p.m.

Monday, April 11, at Harris Theater in Chicago, baroque.org.

dustry, Chicago, 5700 South Lake Shore Drive, (773) 684-1414, uncorkedwinefestivals.com Earth Day Trail Race What better way to celebrate Earth Day than running through the woods, immersed in nature and making new friends? You can too when you join Ornery Mule Racing for their 10th annual 5-mile, 15-mile and 50K race through Veteran Acres and Sternes Woods in Crystal Lake. The breathtaking course features winding single track, rolling hills, blossoming spring flowers, open prairie and pine forest. Prices vary, 8 a.m., Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake, (815) 261-2667, earthdaytrailrace.com

April 23

Earth Day: A Party for the Planet What do your basement and the Earth have in common? Neither one has room for your old TV. What better reason to take your old or broken electronics, textiles and used books down to the Brookfield Zoo to be recycled?

They will dispose of them in the most Earth-friendly way possible. Visitors will also learn some steps to take to make a difference for animals across the globe. Check their website for a complete list of accepted items. Dropoff is free. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st Street, Brookfield, (708) 688-8000, czs.org Continued on page 16

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| TOP PICK EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@chicagostarmedia.com Continued from page 15

April 27

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Joffrey’s “Serenade,” “Of Mice and Men” The Joffrey’s spring double-bill features George Balanchine’s 1934 “Serenade,” the choreographer’s first ballet created in America, and Cathy Marston’s adaptation of “Of Mice and Men,” Steinbeck’s tender tale of friendship, perseverance, and sacrifice. Tickets start at $35, through May 8, Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, (312) 386-8905, joffrey.org

April 28

Networking Night at Mid-America Club The Mid-America Club invites Chicago Star readers to take part in an evening of making new social and professional connections on the 80th floor. Guests will enjoy ice breaker games, spring cocktails and light appetizers created by the club’s mixologist and culinary team. Reservations required. RSVP to the membership director

at (312) 856-9484 or email melissa.czyz@ clubcorp.com. The Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph St., 80th floor, clubcorp.com

May 13

Illinois Craft Beer Week Join the 10th annual celebration of Illinois craft beer, coinciding with American Craft Beer Week. Hundreds of venues participate, with tap takeovers, tastings of rare beers, food and beer pairings. Various locations, through May 20, illinoisbeer.org

May 20

Mayfest Raise your glass under the big top tent.

Known as the original Mayfest, this celebration kicks off Chicago’s summer festivals. The local-favorite fest takes place in the Lakeview neighborhood with live music, German food and drink, and an outdoor beer garden. Admission is $10.

Through May 22, 3100 N. Ashland Ave., starevents.com

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Remembering the past, transforming the future Illinois Holocaust Museum interactive exhibits share survivors’ stories

By Candid Candace Jordan Associate Publisher In recognition of Holocaust Remembrance Day on April 28, also known as Yom HaShoah, we take a visit to the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center— the third largest in the country.

The 65,000-square-foot space, designed by renowned architect Stanley Tigerman, showcases more than 20,000 artifacts belonging to Holocaust victims and survivors and uses the power of cutting-edge technology to shine a spotlight on the events that affected so many innocents.

The late Fritzie Fritzshall in front of her hologram in IlliOnce inside the museum, nois Holocaust Museum’s Survivor Stories Experience. visitors automatically lower their Despite the artifacts on display, the voices in reverence, especially in “The Abe & Ida Cooper Survivor Stories Experience.” museum is a place of love and hope, encouraging visitors to never forget the Making its world debut in 2017, this expepast and to become “upstanders” instead rience was named one of the 12 must-see of “bystanders.” In the Take a Stand Lab, exhibitions globally by Smithsonian maginteractive kiosks encourage visitors to azine and was featured on “60 Minutes.” It get involved and make their voices heard, is the first of its kind to focus on Holocaust in addition to spotlighting the stories and remembrance and education and features strategies of individuals and organizations life-size interactive holograms of 13 surthat have made a positive difference in vivors (seven from Chicagoland) who tell their stories and can answer questions from their communities.

Current exhibits at the museum include the audience in real time.

“Rise Up: Stonewall and the LGBTQ Rights In another world-wide first, the muMovement,” which explores the June 1969 seum’s virtual reality (VR) exhibit, “The police raid of the Stonewall Inn that ignited Journey Back,” takes visitors on a tour the gay rights movement in the U.S. Acback to Holocaust sites as seen through cording to Chief Curator of Collections and the eyes of survivors. The experience Exhibitions Arielle Weininger, “Rise Up” includes two VR films, each about 15 minutes long. The first, “A Promise Kept,” tells the story of how ordinary Americans used their First Amendment freedoms, follows 13-year-old Fritzie as she “fulfills freedom of speech, the press, petition, her promise to the 599 women who assembly and religion, to demand an end saved her life while imprisoned togethto discrimination and change society. The er.” “Don’t Forget Me” follows George exhibit runs through May 8.

Brent’s journey through the Auschwitz, Mauthausen and Ebensee concentration Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education camps. With 360-degree sound and viCenter, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, Illinois. suals, visitors are guided around presOpen Wednesday through Sunday from 10 ent-day preserved concentration camps a.m. to 5 p.m., ilholocaustmuseum.org by the people who survived them.

FREE ADMISSION KIDS & STUDENTS THROUGH 4/17

PRIDE CAME WITH A COST.

“Rise Up: Stonewall and the LGBTQ Rights Movement” was developed by the Newseum, an affiliate of the Freedom Forum, which fosters First Amendment freedoms for all.

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Turning 40, a mid-life milestone I turn 40 this month, and the universe gave me the best birthday present. I was gifted with AOA. My apologies if you’re not familiar. AOA stands Bridget McGuire for Adult Onset Acne: COMMUNITY The gift every woman CONTRIBUTOR is praying for at night.

I went to my dermatologist, and she gave me medicated lotion to put on the scene of the crime, aka my forehead. On the back of the lotion bottle the description read, “for that stubborn teenage acne.” Oh great, what’s next? Should I bounce over to the orthodontist and see if he can put my braces back on?

Maybe I’ll pop by the DMV and ask if I can take the driver’s test—just for fun.

Perhaps the pharmaceutical company could have two bottles made: One that reads

for stubborn teenage acne and one that reads for stubborn middle-aged acne. The middle-aged acne bottle could also come with new tweezers for chin hairs you had never noticed before and a gift certificate for botox.

Part of me hates turning 40 and part of me loves it. Love might be a strong word, but I’m not against it. I can’t stop the aging process, so what else to do but embrace it?

I recently read an article that stated women are the most beautiful in their 40s.

I texted my high school friend group with this exciting news. One of them replied, “Um, who wrote that article? You?” I laughed. I didn’t write that article, but I’m writing this one.

Sure, my skin isn’t as great as it was at 25 and wrinkles seem to come out of nowhere, but that’s just external. Inside at 40 there’s a sense of knowing myself, knowing my worth and staying true to my values. I’ve found myself less inclined to worry about

e l l i v r e t e Stre eek W

30, MAY 20-

a shirt that read: So Happy I Turned 40, capitalizing the S, the H, the I and the T. My sisters and I thought it was so funny that the shirt had a swear word on it. What I didn’t know at the time was that Kevin had cardiomyopathy, a degenerative condition of his heart muscle. He had a heart transplant at 37, one of the first transplants in Illinois, but Kevin didn’t make it to 41.

Knowing this now as an adult, whenever I complain about AOA, or my wrinkles, or keeping up with others, I think of Kevin and truly am so happy I get to be 40.

See Bridget onstage at Zanies Comedy Club in Chicago on April 8 and 10.

what others think of me and less inclined to keep up with the Jones or the Kardashians.

Thirty-five years ago, my dad threw his best friend, Kevin, a surprise 40th birthday party at our house. My parents got him

2022

Bridget McGuire is a Chicago-based storyteller, stand-up comedian and is a co-producer of “All That Good Stuff,” a traveling comedy show that started on the southside of Chicago. Follow her on Instagram at @ bmcguire82.

Get ready for the biggest celebration of local business in Chicago!

For more information and to participate visit chicagostarmedia.com/sw2022

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| NEWS BREAK |

Chicago’s iconic sports mascots

Y

ou could give our fine city a “best of ” award for many things.

We have the best pizza, best shopping, best lakefront, tallest skyscrapers, best downtown and best cultural activities—and maybe throw in the best Italian beef sandwiches while we are at it.

Jon Cohn COMMUNITY But can we now add one more CONTRIBUTOR to the list of Chicago “best ofs?”

How about the best sports team mascots? Yes, those beloved, funny uniformed folks who rev up the crowd, entertain the kids and add to the fun of going to the games.

As a longtime keen observer of mascots, I would argue our Chicago collective mascot contingent is as strong as any, with each member possessing a talent

Jumble HCKCI LMOBO AIBRTB

and spirit totally unique to the team they represent.

None of them are probably as famous nationwide as Benny The Bull, who did his thing all the way through the Michael Jordan championship years. Benny is athletic, a true showman, and the absolute best for firing up the crowd. On occasion though, Benjamin can get a little carried away—for instance, when he got thrown out of the game for arguing a referee’s call: A truly classic Chicago moment.

Tommy Hawk represents the Blackhawks, and his skating prowess is second to none, while Staley has been the long time Chicago Bear Mascot named after the team’s previous ownership, the Decatur Staleys.

Let us not forget our baseball teams with the White Sox mascot Southpaw, who replaced previous mascots Ribbie and Rhubarb, and the Cubs’ mascot Clark, who made his debut in 2014. Clark is a little shy but a loveable guy who survived early controversy regarding his outfit not having

any pants, which some thought not really appropriate.

Underrated mascots? Oh yeah, we have a bunch in that category: Sparky, the avidly protective fire dog, who serves as the Chicago Fire soccer team mascot and Skates, the longtime entertaining mascot for the Chicago Wolves.

Both entertain proudly the teams they represent.

For my money, the most underrated mascot? Look no further than the Chicago Sky women’s basketball team and their long-time mascot Sky Guy. Sky Guy can get the crowd going like no other, with his humorous antics and death defying slam dunks during time outs.

Whatever the case, and whomever you like the most, you have to appreciate the wealth of great sports team mascots that surround our local sporting scene.

It’s just one more great thing about our city of Chicago.

Jon Cohn is a New Eastside resident. Email ideas for Jon to info@chicagostarmedia.com

Community photo LFSWORE AWGRIMN OUCRLLFO

Send photos and captions of things going on in the neighborhood to info@chicagostarmedia.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.

A soft, chewy sweet often found in Easter treats: Previous puzzle answer: A five-line poem often written in a humorous style: LIMERICK

WHERE AM I? Do you know where this is?

If you think you know this spot, email us at info@chicagostarmedia.com Answer to previous Where am I? Exterior of Osteria via Stato in Streeterville.

Shedd Aquarium surprised Chicago Public School (CPS) kindergarteners at Ruggles Elementary with copies of its new children’s book, “Edward and Annie: A Penguin Adventure.” A portion of proceeds from the book’s sales will support both penguin care at the aquarium and conservation for penguins in the wild. Submit a community photo and win a $25 Mariano’s gift card if your photo is selected.

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