New Eastside News January 2021

VOL. 9 NO. 1

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Local artist Alexandru Darida’s work inspired by community

Chicago celebrities reflect on 2020, Cshare HICAGO TAR hopesSfor the new year

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West Loop NEWS

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For activist Jahmal Cole, giving back is a way of life

New Eastside NEWS Streeterville NEWS West Loop NEWS Page 10

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Columnist Candid Candace Jordan talks with CHI-lebrities about the future, including chef Art Smith (clockwise from top left), philanthropist Linda Johnson Rice, Joffrey Ballet artistic director Ashley Wheater, restaurateur Alpana Singh, musician Jim Peterik, former Cub Kerry Wood and wife Sarah, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, comedian Tom Dreesen, news anchor Bill Kurtis and wife Donna La Pietra, and former Chicago Bear Israel Idonije. Photos submitted

Family-owned clock company ticking for more than 100 years Page 13

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| LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | Reader proud to be part of Streeterville week I always love the New Eastside News.

I love the details the newspaper gives me about the current happenings in Chicago.

I love the newspaper because it tells me a

lot about the different things happening in Chicago, and it reminds me of the different festivals that are going to be happening.

I always wondered: what is the process of publishing the newspaper? Every article has simple English which is easy to understand, so that is another reason

Director of Brand Development Jay Kopp jaykopp@chicagostarmedia.com Staff Writers: Nuria Mathog Angela Gagnon

Subscriptions info@chicagostarmedia.com Advertising Contact Jay Kopp jaykopp@chicagostarmedia.com New Eastside News and Streeterville News are published by Chicago Star Media.

New Eastside News and Streeterville News are monthly papers that use 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.

Published Jan. 1, 2021 Copyright ©2021. All rights reserved.

why I love the newspaper.

Thank you for getting me in the article about the Streeterville restaurant week. I was proud seeing myself in it. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Vikram Konkimalla New Eastside Resident

From the publisher — subscriptions

Publisher and Editor: Elaine Hyde elainehyde@chicagostarmedia.com

Copy Editors: Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design: Bob Oswald Community Contributor: Jon Cohn Daniel Patton Columnist: Candace Jordan

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Chicagoans sing together Dec. 19 in front of the Wrigley Building as part of Chicago Star Media’s inaugural Jingle Bell Day. Photo by Jacqueline Davis

Chicagoans unite in song for first Jingle Bell Day

By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer Carolers gathered at the Christmas tree by the Wrigley Building at 6 p.m. Dec. 19 for Chicago Star Media’s inaugural Jingle Bell Day celebration, an event created to bring people together nationwide and spread holiday cheer at the end of a challenging year.

Vocalist Andrew David, who also performed at Streeterville Week in November,

led the Chicago Star Media team and more than a dozen other residents in a singalong of “Jingle Bells,” and 93.9 LITE FM played the song at 6 p.m. to encourage other Chicagoans to join in.

Chicago Star Media publisher Elaine Hyde found inspiration for the event in videos of people around the world coming together in song during the spring.

“Because of the pandemic, this holiday season can

seem a little lacking because so many of our traditional events—feasting, going to church, theatre and caroling—have been canceled or are severely restricted,” Hyde said. “It’s been turned upside down. We can still spread good cheer this season in a different way. National Jingle Bell Day gives us a chance to be united, to be together in a way that can give us personal joy and also lift the spirits of others.”

Thank you to everyone who has requested to be added to mail routes. We have set the mail routes for 2021 based on your responses but can only cover a portion of Streeterville at this time.

In 2021 we are moving to a subscription-based model so we strongly encourage our readers to purchase a subscription.

You can purchase yearly subscriptions for $49 to the New Eastside and Streeterville papers to make sure you receive them in the mail.

You can still get copies at your local grocery store if you’re lucky...they do tend to fly off the racks.

If you’d like to receive the paper in the mail, please visit our website chicagostarmedia.com for information on how to subscribe.

We are thankful to our readers and advertisers for supporting their local news source. We produce local news that moves you and makes you happy.

I hope you will see the value in purchasing a subscription.

—Elaine Hyde

| MASK POLICY | Chicago Star Media safety policy Chicago Star Media follows numerous precautions to maximize the health of its staff and readers. The company requires masks to be worn and proper social dis-

tancing to be maintained at all meetings and functions. It also requires staff writers and photographers to observe these precautions while conducting indoor interviews and taking photographs. Chicago

Star Media allows masks to be removed for photographs that are taken outdoors, provided that the subject and the photographer remain at least six feet apart from one another.

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| FEATURES |

Local artist Alexandru Darida shares elements of art, life, connection His studio gallery’s unique location allows passersby to watch the artist at work. According to Darida, visitors are often intrigued by what they see and Darida Fine Art Gallery, on the come in to start a conversation. promenade along the Ogden Slip at “Meeting the artist has a different 465 N. McClurg Court, showcases impact,” he said. “When you meet the the work of Alexandru Darida, an award-winning artist who can often be artist directly in his element, in his creative space, you understand his art.” found in his studio painting, creating Though not every artist is willing to and absorbing life around him. work where people can “I am here like a bea“I WANT MY watch, Darida welcomes con,” said the Streeterville PAINTINGS TO the interruptions, which resident, who has worked he says, “create dialogue.” at his studio for thirteen HAVE ENERGY, His passion and experyears. “This is an exciting TO SPEAK TO tise is evident as he helps area because the boat OTHERS SO THEY people connect with tours bring people from CAN FIND A his work. all over the world, and REFLECTION OF “I want my paintings to they end up passing the gallery. They’ll look at my WHO THEY ARE.” have energy, to speak to others so they can find a work. They’ll come in and Alexandru Darida reflection of who they are. exchange ideas.”

I invest in my paintings with that enerDarida was born in Transylvania, and he began his artistic journey under gy, power and aura that gives a way to understand a piece of art,” he explained. the communist regime. He moved to “People feel refreshed after talking Rome where he was able to explore his to me,” said Darida, who does not artistic freedom and eventually came want anyone to feel obligated to buy to the U.S., where he has remained something if they visit him. “Just come since. “It was meant to be,” he said of in and exchange ideas, refresh your ending up in Chicago. soul. Look at the paintings. Think “When we talk about art, all over about your soul and feel that it’s a great the world, we find art is the universal language,” Darida said. “It doesn’t need moment in time.”

Though the pandemic has had a translation. We can admire colors, textures, and compositions. It binds us negative impact on everyone, Darida remains steadfast in his belief that this together.” is a story of survivors.

Darida’s work has been featured in “If you are resilient and you believe museums and galleries around the world, art is the universal language, you can and he is the recipient of many awards.

“I’m inspired by people,” he said. “See- touch people’s hearts with your work,” he said. “And if you touch people’s ing their reaction to my art, how they hearts, that connection stays forever.” admire art. It’s something I really enjoy.”

By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer

Artist Alexandru Darida with his paintings in his studio gallery located on the Ogden Slip at 465 N. McClurg Court. Photo by Angela Gagnon

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| NEWS BRIEFS | The Joffrey sets new virtual performances The Joffrey Ballet’s Joffrey Studio Series, featuring a combination of live and pre-recorded content, is premiering two new works that will be streamed live from the Joffrey’s Gerald Arpino Black Box Theatre.

The new performances, created with the COVID-19 era in mind, are “Bolero,” a performance choreographed by The Joffrey’s Yoshihisa Arai for 15 Joffrey dancers, which will be livestreamed on the company’s YouTube channel at 5 p.m. Feb. 12; and “Under the Tree’s Voices,” created by Joffrey Rehearsal Director Nicolas Blanc. Viewers will be able to watch the rehearsal process via livestream on Jan. 27, with future dates to be announced. Livestream dates are subject to change.

Other projects in the series include “Stage Notes,” a collection of behind-the-scenes segments and content with commentary from the dancers, viewable on Feb. 11 and 25; and “On Cue,” which includes conversations about the state of dance from Joffrey artists, viewable Jan. 5 and Jan. 19.

The programs will be featured on the company’s website, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram pages on the listed dates.

New Eastside’s Riverwalk connection reopens to public

The Joffrey Ballet artists Anais Bueno and Yoshihisa Arai perform a scene in “Anna Karenina,” one of the videos in the company’s online “Stage Notes” series.

Photo by Cheryl Mann

The pathway connecting the New Eastside to the Chicago Riverwalk has reopened to the public, once again giving residents direct access to the city’s popular pedestrian destination.

Ginger Menne, a Baird & Warner real estate agent who lives in the New Eastside, said the area was previously closed off for “at last three years” due to construction in the area. The path extends from South Water Street and the Lakeshore East Park and continues under The St. Regis Chicago, the recently rebranded building formerly known as the Vista Tower.

“It’s a much prettier walk for any of us from Lakeshore East that are going to Lake Shore Drive,” Menne said. “And now

A path linking the New Eastside neighborhood with the Chicago Riverwalk is open to the public.

Photo by Ginger Menne

that they’ve approved the entire Riverwalk, we no longer have to walk around. So, we have direct access now. It’s pretty cool. A lot of us that go for walks, we walk out there.”

More News Briefs on page 14

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| NEWS |

ParkShore residents launch building’s first diaper drive

By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer Hundreds of Chicago families in need will receive diapers this winter thanks to a drive launched by two ParkShore women—an initiative they hope will inspire other New Eastside residents to give back to the community.

Dr. Jo Ann Roberts found inspiration for the project after listening to the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Father Michael Pfleger discussing the challenges faced by women from disadvantaged backgrounds. When Roberts learned that SNAP (Food Stamp) benefits cannot be used to purchase diapers, she approached Charlene Roderick, ParkShore’s social director, to find a way to help.

Since the ParkShore diaper drive was created Dec. 5, donors have

John Matranga (from left), Iva Carruthers, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts, Charlene Roderick and Gerald Moriarty at the ParkShore with donations from the building’s diaper drive. Photo by Nuria Mathog

contributed thousands of diapers to the cause. The drive is scheduled to run through Jan. 9, and residents interested in making a donation are encouraged to drop off diapers at the front desk in the ParkShore lobby, 195 N. Harbor Drive.

“I say that we have to have

compassion for one another,” Roberts said. “And that’s what drove me to offer the project to the building, and the building has truly embraced it. Many people have walked up to me and said that they want to continue to do it year-round.”

A 2013 study by Yale University researchers found three in 10 economically disadvantaged mothers were unable to afford an adequate supply of diapers. While the results of the study ultimately led to greater efforts to distribute diapers to low-income families throughout the country, families remain unable to use SNAP benefits to buy diapers for their children.

For Roderick, the diaper drive has been an opportunity to educate residents about an important issue.

“We would be in the foyer with this cute little playpen, and we’d give them the history of what was happening—supporting women with regard to not being able to buy diapers with those cards,” she said. “Subsequent to that, I would give them the website, and they were astonished. They said, ‘You

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The diapers collected through the drive will be donated to three Chicago-based organizations: Cradles to Crayons Chicago, a nonprofit that offers resources such as clothing, books and toys; the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, a nonprofit headed by Jackson; and Saint Sabina Church, where Pfleger serves as pastor.

Jackson said difficulties in affording diapers have placed many low-income families in “terrible situations” such as having to choose between food and diapers for their children.

“When people like Dr. Roberts reach out, it’s so helpful,” he said.

“People all over this complex have given diapers and baby clothes and baby shoes and toys and masks.”

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| FEATURES |

CANDID CANDACE: CHI-LEBRITIES R SHARE THEIR HOPES FOR THE C

I

don’t know about you, but this has definitely been my annus horribilis.

We lost family members, our dog died, my husband lost his two best friends and had a TIA (miniCandace Jordan stroke). Thank God COLUMNIST Chuck is doing well but the rest of these losses added to the already tough situation we’re all facing now— fear of COVID-19, civil and political unrest and, of course, the lockdowns and disenchantment and distress that they bring. I wondered if others were feeling the same, so I asked a few CHI-lebrity friends how they were faring. Their answers and suggestions were thoughtful, inspiring and hopeful.

Tom Dreesen

Comedian Tom Dreesen is one of the most positive, upbeat people I know. He’s a survivor of both COVID-19 AND cancer. His latest book, “Still Standing” recounts his history with Frank Sinatra and his journey from Harvey, Ill., to celeb status. Here’s what he had to say.

“What I’ve learned from the 2020 lockdowns and social distancing is how much I really love my family and friends and will never again take for granted our get togethers. Laughter is healing. Try to find something to laugh about every day and especially practice laughing at yourself. The happiest

people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything.” As for Chicago, he hopes that “the powers that be can clearly tell the difference between a protestor and rioter.”

Famed Chef Art Smith, who has a home in Hyde Park, as well as Jasper, Fla., is hopeful about the future.

“I’m excited to open Reunion at Art Smith Navy Pier because it demonstrates that life goes forward and that Chicago is a city that will always welcome guests from around the world,” he said. “I want to be a part of that hope. We survived the great fire and we will survive the pandemic and be stronger for it.”

Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood and wife Sarah, founders of the Wood Family Foundation and its Pitch In mentoring program for under-served kids, miss the social Kerry and Sarah Wood interaction.

“I miss hugs and just making a personal connection, a smile to a stranger, anything.

We’re committed to reaching out to those we haven’t seen and are making sure to connect with loved ones. With so many struggling with their mental health during this time, checking in with others is SO important right now.”

They found a silver lining in 2020.

“We did take from this year the need to slow down, be present and remove the need for unnecessary business, reprioritizing what we deemed important,” Sarah said. “We want to keep three precious gifts—family, home and time—at the top of our list, always.”

Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis

Broadcast legend Bill Kurtis and wife/ dynamo/philanthropist Donna La Pietra had this to say about 2020, “We certainly felt an even deeper appreciation for the natural world around us, a greater understanding of our interdependency with all species and a greater desire to protect it all.

We were also overwhelmed by the endurance and selfless dedication of so many healthcare workers. How can you not be moved by the human capacity for compassion and the many small acts of charity that played out through every community of the city?”

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, who is on a mission to help people save their homes during this pandemic, said, “2020 gave me time to think about why I have so much and Maria Pappas how little I need.”

She hopes Chicago can “rid itself of the one percent of idiots who have destroyed what took so many years for so many of us to build.” Her advice moving into the New Year? “Wake up and ask yourself what you can do for someone, it will remind you of how unimportant you are unless you are helping someone else.”

Serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist and art collector Howard Tullman said, “I had no idea how important eating my way across the city in restaurants of all shapes and sizes was to my well being and mental Howard Tullman health, if not to my waistline. So, that’s first on my list. Chicago’s a food town and we’ve got to get out there and save our restaurants. It seems to me that the last eight months have lasted several years, but it’s important to remember, that you’re not really old until you have more regrets than dreams. We live in a city of dreamers and doers and the future, if we all work together, is as bright as it’s ever been.”

Hindman Auctions founder and world traveler Leslie Hindman quoted Abraham Lincoln.

“Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to Leslie Hindman be,” she said. “With this pandemic, optimism is the key to survival.” Leslie misses “people” and said, “I would go to the opening of an envelope at this point if we were allowed to.”

Israel “Izzy” Idonije, former Chicago Bear, founder of the Israel Idonije Foundation and philanthropist, said he has so much to be thankful for.

“In all things, I look for the positive as well as the Israel Idonije learning opportunities.

A year like 2020 reinforces that unexpected events happen in life and how important it is for us to be able to pivot and adjust to a situation in order to succeed or survive. Another positive thing I’ve seen is that, as a community, we are extremely resilient. People have rallied and come together to help however

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| FEATURES |

REFLECT ON 2020, COMING YEAR they could during one of the most challenging years of our lifetime. There has been a sense of togetherness through the storm.”

Chilli Pepper, world-renowned entertainer, Baton Show Lounge, said, “I’ve learned to be more tolerant of others, more aware of my Chilli Pepper neighbors and their health and situations. You become a little more charitable with your heart. We’re all in the same boat, just with different accommodations.”

Ashley Wheater

Ashley Wheater, The Joffrey Ballet artistic director, said. “I want to see how far we can take the digital platform, incorporating it long after the end of COVID-19. Digital will play a big role in the future of our art form and now is a great opportunity to experiment.” He added, “I think the positive aspect of the pandemic is that it’s pushed everyone to think more deeply and with greater intention about the world we want to cultivate.”

Philanthropist Linda Johnson Rice, former chairman of Ebony Media, said, “It’s time to listen to one another, learn from each other and respect each other’s Linda Johnson Rice differences. I would like to see Chicago come together as the City of Big Shoulders and heal from all the divisiveness.”

R.J. Melman, Melman Lettuce R.J. Entertain You Enterprises president and new dad to son William Maverick Melman, said, “I’m looking forward to a joyous return to dining and drinking at R.J. Melman our city’s great restaurants.

I would like to see Chicago be the leader of the U.S. in terms of recovery. This year has reinforced what amazing coworkers and partners (including my siblings) I have at Lettuce. In what has been one of the most challenging years in our 49-plus year history, the ingenuity, creativity, grit and drive of the people I am lucky to work with has been amazing.”

Alpana Singh, restaurateur, sommelier and host of “Check, Please!” said, “I suspect many of us will come out of this pandemic with fresh awareness of our own resiliency and ability to overAlpana Singh come incredible challenges. However much time you think you have on earth is not guaranteed and we can’t let our imagined fears steal our dreams and our ability to love and be loved.”

Chicago International Film Festival founder Michael Kutza said, “To me, 2020 didn’t exist. I’m looking forward to going back to the movies, the expensive popcorn and the big screen.

I need more friends than just Netflix and vodka (with Michael Kutza a tequila chaser, of course). Onward, my friends, to 2021.” He’s also looking forward to finishing his memoir in the coming year.

Jim Peterik

Rock legend Jim Peterik, of Ides of March, had this to say: “If you made it through 2020, the future is a piece of cake.

2020 has been a test of your character. I used a line from my own song “Eye of the Tiger” to focus me, ‘rising up from the challenge of our rival.’ And how!”

Peterik said he misses attending live concerts because they “light my creative fire.”

He’s hoping to play Ravinia.

“That place rocks,” he said.

Alderman Brian Hopkins, 2nd Ward, said, “My goal as alderman is to end 2021 without a single plywood board in place where a glass window should be.

This will require both the end of the pandemic, beginning Brian Hopkins of economic recovery and a security management plan that will prevent sustained, uncontrolled criminal acts of the type we experienced on May 30 and Aug. 10.”

He did find a silver lining in 2020. “Focusing on the science of indoor air quality will provide health benefits that will last for

generations after this pandemic ends,” he said. What he misses? Playing harmonica with the Dr. Bombay band.

Dr. Ian Smith, host of the Emmy Award-winning TV show, “The Doctors,” and author (newest novel), “The Unspoken,” shared this: “One of the most positive things I took from 2020 is that many things we think are important really aren’t.

Life is not about brand Dr. Ian Smith names and expensive purchases. Happiness can be achieved with simplicity as well as finding ways to be productive and engaged. Find your passion and identify your dreams, then focus and pursue them relentlessly.”

Thanks to all for participating in this exercise in hopefulness. I hope it gives you some bright ideas for the future and helps you think more kindly of the past. For me, I wish for good health for my loved ones. That’s it.

The rest will take care of itself.

Follow me @CandidCandace, CandidCandace.com

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| LOCAL LEADER |

For Jahmal Cole, giving back is a way of life and it broke. I grew up living in a motel and living in the back of a U-Haul truck, and seeing my parents split up left and right. It was tough on a kid. A lot of my role models went to jail for drugs, a lot of my cousins. Everyone went to jail, my whole life. Everybody. Just being able to dream bigger than my surroundings was a challenge.

Ultimately, it played a part in why I do what I do today.

By By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer In 2013, community activist Jahmal Cole launched My Block, My Hood, My City, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that connects teens from disadvantaged neighborhoods with the places, people and possibilities the city has to offer.

Born in Libertyville, Cole attended Reuther Central High School in Kenosha, Wisc., and went on to graduate from Wayne State College in 2005 with a degree in communications. In 2011, he earned a master’s degree in internet marketing from Full Sail University Online.

Cole’s recognitions include the 2020 American Red Cross Community Impact Hero Award, the 2019 Champion of Freedom Award and a spot on Crain’s “40 Under 40” list. He regularly participates in speaking engagements around the city and has authored several books, including “Exposure Is Key: Solving Violence by Exposing Teens to Opportunities” and “50 Excuses to not Follow Your Dreams.”

Cole, a resident of Chatham, has a daughter, Khammur Monet.

How did you develop the concept for My Block, My Hood, My City?

The only concept is to help people. So, I’ve had this since I was 4 years old. The earliest memories that I have are giving speeches about helping people and listening to Dr. King and Malcolm X. So, I don’t know anything different.

I don’t even know what else I’m good at. I’ve always known I was going to do it. I didn’t know I was calling it My Block, My Hood, My City until I started helping people at the Cook County Jail.

How has the organization has given back to the community throughout the pandemic?

Everything we do is giving

Community activist Jahmal Cole founded the Chicago-based nonprofit My Block, My Hood, My City in 2013. Photo courtesy of Jahmal Cole

back, even if it’s effort. We don’t have programs, per se, we create programs based upon whatever happens in Chicago. If there’s a snowstorm, you’ll see us shoveling snow. If there’s a heat wave, we deliver water and we deliver fans for seniors. Throughout the pandemic, over 8,000 seniors reached out to us from 12 different states, and we had seniors and we had youth that were unemployed and out of school ...we hired 85 teenagers to contact over 8,000 seniors. They had contact tracing, they connected the seniors with primary healthcare physicians, they shipped out PPE, food, every week for eight weeks. We paid them for eight weeks. That was a way to respond. And then also, my community, Chatham, was turned into almost a food desert because of the looting. We started a small business relief fund and raised $1 million to deliver to businesses that needed help with glass repair, graffiti removal, construction and stuff like that. We helped out over 300 businesses with $7,500 grants.

What do you find most meaningful about your role with the organization?

What I love about my life is that it allows me to help people, and they use me to help people.

I enjoy living in Chicago. I love Chicago. I like having a movement that allows everybody to get involved. We don’t have to have a master’s to make a difference, or a law degree. We can do several things. At My Block, My Hood, My City we offer an on-ramp to community engagement for folks who want to get involved. I really love that.

What does being a leader mean to you?

Asking a lot of questions.

Trying your best to understand.

Moving forward even when you’re uncertain.

What are some of the challenges you faced growing up, and how have they shaped the person you are today?

I didn’t know a food stamp wasn’t real money until I tried to put one in the washing machine

Who has been the biggest role model in your life?

Definitely my father. He never had no money growing up, and we grew up living in the back of a U-Haul truck. We ate at homeless shelters growing up—Thanksgiving dinner, I ate at homeless shelters. But he never let me hold my head down and be embarrassed that I was wearing thrift store clothes and living at the shelter. He’d always make me hold my head up high, and even if my friends were volunteering at the shelter, he would still make me go get my food. He always instilled in me that I was going to be a senator, I was going to be a leader in the world, and he just never wavered. He always believed in me.

How have your experiences with homelessness influenced the work you do?

Once you’re homeless and you’ve got to live in the streets, you don’t ever judge people.

You always have a lot of empathy for people, because you know what it is like. And that empathy can move to compassion when you start doing something about it. But you always have empathy. You never look down on people. You can talk to a wide spectrum of people, because you’ve been there.

It keeps you humble. And that ability has never left me.

This year has highlighted divides in our country, especially in terms of race and politics. How can we best bridge those divides as a community?

By doing things together.

Volunteering together. We just put holiday lights on King Drive, and the significance is people of all different colors and genders and religions and opinions and ethnicities and occupations, everybody came together to do something positive on King Drive. Chicago is a very segregated city, and I could talk about why that’s important for days. But at the end of the day, people connect based upon their energies and their vibes and their values.

In this country, we separate people by the color of the skin.

In other countries, they do it by all types of things ... We need to start asking ourselves, who’s profiting by creating these divides amongst people? Is it the Republican Party? Is it Yahoo and their search engines? Is it rich people who don’t want poor people to unite, to face our judicial system that puts poor people in jail for stealing crumbs, while corporate CEOs are making billions of dollars off people’s jail time? So, we’ve got to ask ourselves, who’s profiting by keeping us apart?

What do you hope teens take away from participating in My Block, My Hood, My City?

That it’s their responsibility to go back when they graduate and pull somebody off the block. And then they can really just show them that they want them to see success in different forms, beyond rap and basketball. There are so many options for things you can do. You have access to so many opportunities.

Just step outside your comfort zone, and you’ll get it.

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| FEATURES |

Essentials of 2021 for Chicago residents

By Daniel Patton

l

Freelance Reporter

Many Chicagoans plan to embrace the future by getting back to the basics. When asked about plans for 2021, a handful of Windy City-dwellers listed self-fulfillment, career achievement and personal relationships. Photos by Daniel Patton Improvisation veterans Janette Angelini and Emily Wrolson were in Streeterville working on a variety show that will stream through January titled, “Simply having an okay Christmastime.”

They paused to describe their regard for the simple things in life.

Angelini’s New Year’s resolution is to “purchase some of my own equipment and learn how to do my own editing.” Her mantra for 2021 is “to be of service to others,” a goal that, as a health care worker in a group care home, she fulfills every day. “It’s something that we need to be a little more diligent about, especially that we’ve been, like, isolated and alone so much … everyone I think needs a little more love.”

Wrolson hopes to “spend more time doing the things that I actually care about … and less time talking about it.” When asked about her personal mantra, she said, “live, laugh, love.” Then she laughed. “I want to be happy and, like, just get it together,” she continued. “Get it together, I say.”

Before the pandemic shut down most live entertainment, Wrolson would see shows at the iO Theater “like two times a week.” Although the venue closed permanently in June, she looks forward to “seeing live comedy” when the restrictions are lift-

Charles Farr, Pilsen, Management Consultant What’s your New Year’s resolution?

I will be finding a new job. Yesterday was my last day (at my former employer).

What is your personal mantra for 2021?

I think, if anything, the importance of relationships has become much more apparent, so nurturing and maintaining those better going forward.

Group activity you can’t wait to do again?

I like hosting dinner parties and I’m very excited to be able to cook for people again.

Bando Rogers (aka SMD Bando), Altgeld Gardens, Rapper New Year’s Resolution?

Get money, all 2021.

Mantra for 2021?

To progress in life and do better than I am now.

Live performance you can’t wait to see?

Coldplay.

Emily Wrolson and Janette Angelini.

ed. Angelini is a fan of Australian singer Tame Impala. She missed his last performance at the United Center, but hopes another is on the way. “I feel like he would put on a stellar show,” she said.

Their performance in “Simply having an okay Christmastime” can be viewed at @grossguitargirl.

Eevon Stallone, Hyde Park, Uber driver New Year’s resolution?

Not to live in fear as I did in 2020. Not to live in fear of little things that people shouldn’t be afraid of.

Mantra for 2021?

I’m going to be free and I’m going to be truly open-minded, like people used to believe in before it became a catchphrase.

There’s an expectation for 2021 to be a lot better. I hate to see what happens if those expectations aren’t met. When people have rising expectations and those expectations are disappointed, that gives a high potential for massive social change and upheaval.

Live performance you can’t wait to see?

I’ll go to anybody who breaks the in-person music ban. I’ll be the first person there.

Ilana Epshetsky of Lakeview and Abigail Healing of Humboldt Park, Juniors at Whitney Young Magnet High School New Year’s resolution?

Epshetsky: To study more and get good grades at school.

Healing: Probably to work out more because I’ve gotten lazy.

Mantra for 2021 Epshetsky: To always treat people with kindness.

Healing: Perseverance in homework and studying.

Live performance you can’t wait to see

Ilana Epshetsky and Abigail Healing.

Epshetsky: Definitely Harry Styles Healing: Lollapalooza. I want to go there and I also really want to see Clairo, she’s an artist and she also does indie music

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| COMMUNITY CORNER |

Doorperson of the Month

Lynsay Lindsey, One Illinois Center, 233 N. Michigan Ave.

By Daniel Patton Freelance Writer As the point of contact for tenants and visitors entering 233 N. Michigan Ave., Lynsay Lindsey handles a multitude of responsibilities.

“The first person you see when you walk into the lobby is me,” she said. “I help people navigate the complex. I make sure the elevators are running properly.

And sometimes, I am your friend.”

Lindsey has been perfecting her customer service skills since she was a high school student at Dunbar Vocational Career Academy in Chicago. “I went towards hospitality management because my teacher felt that my personality fit and I had a hostess kind of vibe.”

The recommendation complemented the wisdom Lindsey had learned from her parents while growing up in Bronzeville.

Lindsey’s father was a music teacher who played the upright acoustic bass. Her mother was a social worker and flautist who worked for Catholic Charities before retiring to pursue music while raising her children at home. Together, they built family unity through engagement.

“Whenever my parents had a gig, my brother and I would be part of it,” she said. “People would wonder if we were a musical family like the von Trapps.”

After graduating from Dunbar, Lindsey embarked on a career of increasing responsibility and interesting locales. She developed “a lot of respect for hockey players” while working as a guest services representative at United Center. From there, she accepted a telemarketing job and, for the next three years, developed “a thick skin” by calling residences as late as 8 p.m. She eased the cold-calling tension with an impressive personal technique.

“I would change my voice to sound different,” she said. “I would go with a British accent, or an old lady, or someone from a different country or a young girl on her first job. Sometimes I would mimic the accent of the person on the other line. It really worked on men.”

Next, she worked security at Chicago

One Illinois Center’s Lynsay Lindsey is Doorperson of the Month. Photo by Daniel Patton

O’Hare International Airport, where her duties included checking trucks for proper clearance before allowing them to enter a restricted airfield.

A help-wanted ad prompted her to pursue her current job at One Illinois Center.

“I got an-over-the phone interview, and they liked the way I sounded,” she said.

Besides housing law firms, ad agencies and insurance companies, One Illinois Center is home to the media company iHeartRadio, which adds a dash of celebrity to Lindsey’s job.

Mike Tyson, Amy Adams, Christian Bale, Kevin Hart and Ice Cube are among the personalities she has seen since starting the job in 2011. But the most memorable was DJ Herb Kent, “the Cool Gent,” who recorded his final show in the building on a Sunday afternoon.

“He always said that he was going to be on the radio until he died,” she recalled.

“He was a pioneer in radio and a very nice man with a great sense of humor.”

Lindsey enjoys spending time at home in Englewood with her three children.

“They’re best friends,” she said. “When people call, they don’t realize I have kids because my house is so quiet.”

To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why you think they should be the doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.

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| FEATURES |

Timeless service

Family-owned clock company keeps ticking for more than 100 years

By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer

Much like the clocks it repairs, Chicago Clock Company has kept on ticking for more than a century, outlasting two world wars, the Great Depression and countless other events that have shaped American history.

Today, the 103-year-old company has four stores in the Chicagoland area, including Water Tower Clock & Watch, on the sixth floor of the Magnificent Mile’s Water Tower Place.

Jason Matthiesen, Chicago Clock Company president, is the fourth generation to run the company, which began in 1917 as a door-to-door clock repair business founded by Matthiesen’s great-grandfather Conrad Utecht.

Water Tower Clock & Watch, on the A German immigrant sixth floor of Water Tower Place at in pursuit of the 835 N. Michigan Ave., opened in American dream, 2001. Photo by Nuria Mathog Utecht launched a successful at-home repair shop, later opening a store on Wells Street in downtown Chicago.

Utecht’s son-in-law Ludwig Matthiesen joined the family business after learning the ins and outs of clock repair from Utecht, and Ludwig Matthiesen’s sons Andy and Louie eventually took over the company, with Andy bringing the retail side into the equation and Louie working as the service manager at the company’s Palatine location.

Jason Matthiesen grew up helping out with the business after-school and during the summer, unloading trucks and assisting with “general gopher duties,” he said. After graduating from Drake University in 1991, he took on a more involved role and moved up the ranks from general manager to vice president to president, a position he has held for the past two years.

“I believe that our customer service and the quality of work that we do in terms of the repairs is the big reason

Three generations of the Matthiesen family: Louie (from left), Ludwig, Jason and Andy. Photo courtesy of Jason Matthiesen

why we’re still around,” he said. “On the retail end of it, we really take care of our customers. That’s what our goal has always been—to have the best customer service in the industry and treat people like they want to be treated.”

The company offers a variety of clock repair services, including in-home service for grandfather clock repairs, with a range that stretches into Wisconsin and Indiana.

The business also features a selection of clocks for purchase and can assist customers with transporting clocks to a new home.

In its 103-year history, Chicago Clock Company has passed through a number of locations. After leaving the initial Wells Street spot in the early 1900s, the store moved to 22 W. Madison St., before relocating to 106 S. Michigan Ave., moving again to 1500 N. Wells St. The company then left the city for a time, establishing a location in Palatine in 1970 and expanding to other areas in the suburbs.

The Water Tower location, the company’s most recent, opened in 2001, Matthiesen said. The store is open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-6 p.m. on Sunday.

Hillman Castor, Water Tower Clock & Watch manager, has been with the company for nearly 20 years. The most rewarding aspect of his job is the interactions he has with customers.

“Here, people come in and they’re in a good mood and they’re happy,” he said. “It’s pleasant. ... Mostly we do a lot of services, changing the watch batteries, hand adjustments. We do watch repair, from Timex to Rolex. ...The main focus for the business is services: you’ve got to do something that sets yourself apart.”

More complex or specialized clock repairs are handled by the Chicago Clock Company’s main office, in Clarendon Hills. The business regularly encounters clocks built in the 1800s and some as early as the late 1700s.

Chicago Clock Company president Jason Matthiesen at the company’s Clarendon Hills location. Photo courtesy of Jason Matthiesen

Sometimes, the parts necessary to keep the clock running cannot be obtained and must be created, Matthiesen said.

“The biggest challenge we have, as the clocks are getting older, is more and more hands have been in the clock that may or may not have been experienced enough to do that,” he said. “So, there’s a lot of home remedies we see and homemade parts and some damage that other people have done.”

One of the most fascinating clocks the company has encountered is one that survived the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, Matthiesen said.

“The people that owned the clock knew that their house would eventually be devastated, and they buried the clock and ran for safety, obviously,” he said. “And when they came back after the fire, they dug the clock up, and cleaned it off. It had run up until about 20 years ago, when somebody accidentally knocked it off the mantle. And a few years back, they brought it into the location in Palatine in complete pieces, and we resurrected it, put Humpty Dumpty back together. That clock has some history.”

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| NEWS BRIEFS | COVID-19 vaccinations begin in Chicago Chicago began vaccinating frontline healthcare workers in mid-December as part of an ongoing rollout plan designed to provide the vaccine to city residents in order of need.

According to Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and the Chicago department of Public Health, the initial doses of the vaccine are allocated to hospitals throughout the city and prioritize individuals and communities that have been most affected by the pandemic.

“The vaccine development represents a long-awaited milestone in Chicago’s—and the nation’s —fight against COVID-19, and we look forward to working with our citywide partners to ensure the distribution process is executed as efficiently and safely as possible through an equity lens,” Lightfoot said in a news release.

The Illinois Department of Public Health website states the following three groups will be given priority during the rollout: essential frontline workers, staff and residents at long-term care facilities and essential workers such as emergency services personnel, individuals with medical conditions associated with high risk of severe COVID-19 illness and seniors 65 and older.

During a briefing on Dec. 22, Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Allison Arwady stated it would likely take through mid-February to vaccinate the initial groups.

The city’s goal is for all adult residents to be able to receive the vaccination in 2021 at no cost. Vaccination providers will include doctors’ offices, hospitals, retail pharmacies and federally qualified health centers.

Updates on the vaccine’s availability locally will be available at chicago.gov/ COVIDvax, and Chicagoans can locate the vaccine by using the VaccineFinder website, vaccinefinder.org. More information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is available at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ vaccines.

The Gap on Michigan Avenue will close at the end of January as part of Gap Inc.’s strategy to adapt to online business growth and changing customer needs.

Photo by Jay Kopp

| EVENTS | meals to community members in need.

“The new funds provided by High Road Kitchens will lift up small businesses while empowering their employees that work tirelessly day in and day out to keep them alive,” Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a city news release.

To be eligible for the program, businesses must earn an annual revenue of less than $3 million and have experienced COVID-19-related financial loss amounting to at least 25 percent of their annual revenue. Restaurants participating in the program are required to commit to paying non-tipped wages of $15 an hour by 2026.

Michigan Avenue Gap store to close The Gap’s three-story Magnificent Mile location is set to close in early 2021, according to Gap Inc. The store, 555 N. Michigan Ave., will close its doors at the end of January, Gap Inc. spokeswoman Justine Jordan said in an emailed statement, noting the move is part of the company’s strategy to adapt to changing customer needs and online business growth.

“We remain committed to making appropriate and timely decisions on stores that don’t fit our vision for the future of Gap Inc,” Jordan said. “We are confident these closures will help strengthen the health of our company moving forward.”

In October, Gap Inc. announced plans to close 220 Gap stores and 130 Banana Republic stores by the end of 2023, representing approximately 30 percent of its total fleet, in an effort to focus on e-commerce and outlets, the Chicago Tribune reported.

City launches High Road Kitchens Program Chicago officials have announced the creation of a $1 million High Road Kitchens Program that will offer grants to restaurants that have made a commitment to providing employees with a living wage by 2026 and giving free

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

Jan. 1-3

Burning Bluebeard Porchlight Music Theatre’s latest virtual offering is a physical-performance phenomena inspired by the true story of Chicago’s former Iroquois Theatre and the tragedy for 600 theatergoers at Christmastime in 1903. Tickets for the show can be purchased at porchlightmusictheatre.org

Jan. 1-10

Jack Frost’s Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm This pop-up experience is decorated with more than 1 million lights and dozens of opportunities for photos. Enjoy the Christmas Tree trail and maze and enjoy hot chocolate and doughnuts while strolling along to the sounds of the season.

Tickets must be purchased prior to arrival. 1455 N. Elston Ave., Goose Island, Chicago.

Jan. 9 Renovations to the Aon Center’s South Plaza began in December and are expected to be completed by the end of September 2021. Rendering courtesy of HGA

Aon Center South Plaza renovations begin Renovations to the South Plaza adjacent to the Aon Center began in December.

The project, designed by architectural firm HGA, aims to establish “an open, park-like atmosphere” with seating able to accommodate small and large groups, according to Aon Center officials. It is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2021.

While construction is underway, the Aon Center’s Upper North Lobby entrance, which will serve as the building’s primary entrance and ADA access entrance, will be made accessible 24/7.

Additionally, the revolving doors in the Upper South Lobby’s southwest corner can be used to enter and exit the building during business hours. Signage will be available to direct visitors on how to enter the building.

Girls Build! Day 2021: Sustainable Futures Join us for a virtual STEM festival designed just for girls ages 10−16. Hear from female professionals who work on environmentally friendly design projects. Hosted on Zoom by the Chicago Architecture Center, 10 a.m., free with RSVP.

Jan. 12

In Progress: Cae Monāe Artist and performer Cae Monāe performs Masca, a new experimental performance encompassing the multiple facets of “masking” through spoken word, makeup artistry, and movement. After the performance, join Monāe in a virtual conversation allowing for audience feedback on this new work. Hosted on Zoom by the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, noon-1 p.m.

Jan. 21

Blood Drive with the American Red Cross The Mid-America Club is partnering with the American Red Cross for a Blood Drive Day. Visit redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive and use the sponsor code MAC to book your time slot. For additional information, contact (312) 861-1100 or email melissa.czyz@clubcorp.com, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 80th floor of the Aon Center, 200 E. Randolph St., midamerica@clubcorp.com

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| NEWS BREAK |

Chicago singles scene: It’s tough out there

I

am always up for a challenge, but this one could be epic.

Your friendly 64-year-old, happily married contributing columnist has been Jon Cohn COMMUNITY assigned to write CONTRIBUTOR about today’s singles scene in Chicago.

Why me is a story for another day, but my challenge isn’t nearly as hard as what singles are dealing with right now. Trying to meet greet and date in the middle of a pandemic is hard.

How difficult is it to find the love connection? Let’s just say that if I were an

Jumble

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Olympic judge, I would give it a degree of difficulty rating of 9.7.

There are different challenges for different age groups.

For high school and college kids, the road is rough. Nobody in classrooms, few are walking around campus, most clubs and sports are on hold, and worse yet, the youngsters are not even allowed to have parties or go to bars. Pretty much like taking a wrecking ball to the usual ways of young kids meeting and dating.

As a father of two mid-20-year-old unattached sons, I can tell you first hand, that the prospects for 20-, 30- and 40-something singles is no better. Workplaces are mostly closed down, eliminating social gatherings post work, while bars and par-

ties have become forbidden fruit for this age group as well.

Not to be forgotten are our beloved single seniors, many of whom I have talked to, who might normally meet at senior centers, special events, or maybe even mingle away at residence dining halls and restaurantswhich have all been shut down. Not exactly a recipe for increased socialization.

Not painting a particularly pretty picture here for the struggling singles of our fine city, but have faith, help is at hand.

A savior of sorts has been the wonders of online dating sites. Considered somewhat “taboo” a few years ago, they are now about as common as the cold in Chicago. It’s not quite the same, but for those who choose to, you can indeed “swipe

right” your way to mingling, meeting and mating.

Bottom line? It’s tough out there for today’s city singles. On the other hand, I have complete faith that our determined, unhitched Chicago brethren will somehow find creative and different ways to “stay in the game”—even with all the pandemic-dictated challenges.

Of course, if all else fails, you can always consult your friendly 64-year-old, longtime married contributing columnist— who will be happy to offer any advice. Just here to help.

Jon Cohn is a New Eastside resident.

Email ideas for Jon to info@chicagostarmedia.com

Community photo LEBSL RITTIDNOA PKRSELRA

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

Musical sounds often made to indicate the time.

Previous puzzle answer: Plural for “a piece of news” often used as the second word in a holiday greeting. TIDINGS

Where am I?

Do you know where this is?

If you think you know these spots, email us at info@chicagostarmedia.com.

Answers to December Where am I? 225 N. Michigan Avenue and the Ogden slip.

New Eastside resident Ginger Menne’s Scottish terrier, Brigitte Bardot— also known as “Piggy”—poses for a photo in her carriage.

Photo by Ginger Menne

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