Candid Candace Jordan gets cookin’ with La Scarola’s Joey and Armando Page 4
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Israel Idonije, former Chicago Bear and full-time philanthropist, and Jatnna Toribio will celebrate the New Year as Mr. and Mrs., having tied the knot on Nov. 14. Photo taken on the LondonHouse Cupola by Gregoire Jules
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GET COOKIN’ WITH... La Scarola’s Joey and Armando By Candid Candace Jordan
Groom should share spotlight during wedding ceremony Dear Candid Candace: I’m getting married in the spring. The last three weddings I have been to, I watch the bride beautifully march down the aisle with their parents in tow, while the groom stands in front waiting for the bride to arrive. Very nice, but I am thinking I too want to walk down the aisle, and have that moment with my parents. Of course, my future wife, the bride, would go last, as she is the star of the show, but don’t you think the groom should get their moment to shine as well? —Better Grooming Dear Better Grooming: What a brilliant idea and I couldn’t agree more! The groom should absolutely have his moment in the sun, walking down the aisle, just like the bride. I think each should be attended by both of their parents too because A) ALL the parents should be recognized and honored during the ceremony, and B) each parent is “giving up” their son/daughter in marriage. Dear Candid Candace: I’m one of your younger readers and am looking for some advice on how to handle a sensitive social situation. I play basketball for my high school and, both last year and this year, I have kind of developed a crush on a cheerleader. But, the problem is she is a cheerleader for the opposing school. Is it okay to date someone from another school? And any advice on how I break the ice? —Jumping Through Hoops Dear Jumping Through Hoops: Memories you make during high school are everlasting and form who you become in
later years. You will always remember your first crushes so, if you’re attracted to her, invite her on a date. Maybe the next time you play each other, you can get a message to her that you’re interested. Being from another school shouldn’t be viewed as a negative, it could be an asset. And, if she’s not interested, no harm, no foul. Remember what hockey great Wayne Gretzky said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Dear Candid Candace: I have a fight with my kids every year. When the weather gets really cold, they refuse to wear the heavy jacket and gloves and hats that they have, and instead prefer hooded sweatshirts and maybe a cap that doesn’t even cover the ears. They get sick at least once a year but tell me it’s not cool to wear all that heavy winter clothing. Any advice for a mom losing ground in this yearly battle? —Winter Weather Wendy Dear Winter Weather Wendy: Exposure to cold and dry air may adversely impact the body’s immune system, however, it’s a common misconception that you must wear heavy clothing to avoid “catching a cold.” The biggest risks associated with going out in the cold underdressed are hypothermia and frostbite, which can both lower the immune system. This lowering can, in part, affect your child’s likelihood of catching a virus but it won’t guarantee it. Send questions to: CandidCandace@ ChicagoStarMedia.com. Follow Candid Candace (Candace Jordan) on Facebook, Insta, LinkedIn and Twitter.
Contributing editor a Scarola is one of the most popular restaurants in town and it’s not just because of its delicious Italian food. Co-owners Joey Mondelli and Armando Vasquez are major people magnets. Everyone wants to visit them at their restaurant at 721 W. Grand Ave. From major celebrities to sports stars to politicians to just local folk, it’s a destination spot for just about everyone you could think of. When Joey and Armando first envisioned a restaurant, they weren’t thinking big; they were thinking easy—“Over Easy” that is, a restaurant concept that would only serve breakfast and lunch and still allow the two men-about-town La Scarola’s Armando Vasquez and Joey Mondelli. some time for themselves. But business for 50 years, cooking for Liza this wasn’t meant to be, fortunately for us. Minelli, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Robert The backstory: Armando moved to the DeNiro and more. Armando is not far beUnited States as a little kid from Mexico. hind at 38 years. Together, at La Scarola, The Preveleanakis family took him in they have been attracting an A+ clienand gave him his first job as a dishwashtele from the restaurant’s inception with er and also shared their love of cooking guests that have included Faye Dunaway, with him. All their lessons stuck. MeanOliver Stone, Colin Farrell, Morgan Freewhile, young Joey was making his way man, Robert Zemeckis, Victor Skrebneski, around Chicago, charming guests with Keanu Reeves, Shia LeBeouf, Tommy his magic tricks as a bartender, beginning Lasorda, Evander Holyfield, Geraldine at the tender age of 17, at many of the Chaplin, Bobby Hull, Chris Hemsworth, hotspots in town. In 1980, Mondelli established the iconic Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Sidney Poitier, Eminem and so many more. Kelly Mondelli’s on Clark Street, which Going strong at 23 years, the restaurant quickly became a celebrity hangout. Following this venture, he opened another has many specialties, including Sausage restaurant, Joey Mondelli’s, in Warrenville & Peppers, Ricotta Meatballs, Risotto Primavera, Vitello di Franco, Chicken (in the western suburbs), which is where Vesuvio and more. (All of these recipes he met Armando. The rest, as they say, can be found in Joey and Armando’s book is history. “The Walls of La Scarola.”) La Scarola became a reality on Feb. Armando and Joey shared one of their 22, 1998, with a simple hand-painted many favorite recipes with us, Pasta Sinasign that cost $300 and was originally tra, in honor of a late friend and treasured envisioned by Armando on a napkin (the customer. To read the recipe, visit chicasame sign is still there). gostarmedia.com. Joey has been in the restaurant and bar
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Words of wisdom for 2022 from Babe Ruth, Oprah and Winnie the Pooh
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ow that our latest anxiety-filled year is behind us, I am ready for some inspiration. I want to move into 2022 with a smile and more hope. Lately, I’ve been searching for words of wisdom to help move me into the New Year with more spring in my step. Back in the day, inspiration could be found in some unlikely places. In the 1900s and even into the 1980s, having an autograph book was a thing. They Candid Candace contained charming sayings and advice written lovJordan ingly from friends and family members to the book’s ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER owners. I saved all of these special books from both my family and and my husband Chuck’s. I have one from my great-grandfather dated 1891 and in it, my Dad wrote on Nov. 15, 1919. “Love many, trust few but always paddle your own canoe.” Forty-five years later, he wrote the very same thing in my own book. And, to this day, I’m not exactly sure what he meant. I’m still waiting for an epiphany and wish he were here so I could ask him. My grandmother purchased her autograph book at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904. This saying, dated 1905, jumped out at me, “To knit and spin was once a girl’s employment. But now to dress and think of a beau is all the girl’s enjoyment.” Thank goodness times have changed and, as you can see, the words weren’t always wise. When I was young, I was inspired by the “Winnie the Pooh” books which were created by British author A. A. Milne in the 1920s. They became an instant success. The little group of four books has inspired generations with their simple, straightforward messages about living life to the fullest. The beloved “silly old bear” shared funny, witty and sometimes bittersweet quotes about life, love, friendship, growing up and, of course, honey. To this day, I have saved all the books and refer to them from time to time as I think they are still so very relevant today. Winnie the Pooh: “If you live to be a hundred, I hope I live to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live a day without you.” Piglet: “The things that make me different are the things that make me me.” Christopher Robin: “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” As I grew older, this quote from Helen Keller became a sort of mantra. “When one door closes, another opens. But often we look so long, so regretfully, upon the closed door, that we fail to see the one that is opened for us.” This has been so true for me throughout my life. Invariably, after losing something I thought was so important, my next opportunity has been even better, like now being a part of Chicago Star. These days, the wisdom of the ages is just a click away. The greatest minds of our time have inspired us with quotes that we live with every day and, in many cases, don’t even realize their origins. These are some of my favorites. I hope they ring true for you and are an inspiration as we get ready to celebrate another year together.
Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fall.” Walt Disney: “All of our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” Steve Jobs: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma—which is living with the results of other people’s thinking.” Walt Disney
Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
John Lennon
John Lennon: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.” Aristotle: “It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.” Anne Frank: “Whoever is happy will make others happy too.”
Maya Angelou
Eleanor Roosevelt: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Winston Churchill: “Success is walking from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” Franklin D. Roosevelt: “When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.” Robert Louis Stevenson: “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.” Oprah Winfrey: “If you look at what you have in life, you’ll always have more. If you look at what you don’t have in life, you’ll never have enough.” Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” Oprah Winfrey
Albert Einstein: “Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value.” Ralph Waldo Emerson: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Babe Ruth: “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” Abraham Lincoln: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” Thomas A. Edison: “Many of life’s failBabe Ruth ures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” Dr. Seuss: “You have to be odd to be number one.”
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Candid Candace CITY SEEN
PAWS Chicago’s 20th annual Fur Ball
Co-Chairs Scott and Nancy Santi.
Angie DeMars with Grace, Tinsley Mortimer with Strawberry and Shortcake, Chloe Mendel, and Amy Burin with Addison.
Homeless dog Sonny.
The Cause: Five hundred and fifty animal loving supporters along with 60 of their canine companions celebrated the 20th annual PAWS Chicago Fur Ball at the Drake Hotel. The event raised funds for the nonprofit’s life-saving mission, to shelter and bring an end to the killing of homeless dogs and cats. As Chicagoland’s largest No Kill shelter, PAWS has helped reduce the number of homeless pets killed in the city by 91% since its founding in 1997. The Setting: Pups in tux, party-goers in glam black-tie attire all set against the backdrop of the elegant Drake Hotel. The event was held in the Grand Ballroom and Gold Coast Room. Live music was provided by Guitarra Azul and Maggie Speaks. Pets enjoyed a doggie buffet and dog spa while their human counterparts mingled, danced and enjoyed a dinner buffet. The Scene: Media personalities Sylvia Perez, Jake Hamilton and Natalie Bomke (of Fox-32) served as emcees for the event. Founder Paula Fasseas offered welcoming remarks followed by comments from co-chairs Nancy and Scott Santi. Tinsley Mortimer, of the Real Housewives of New York City, adopted Randy, a 3-pound Chihuahua, following a presentation of adoptable dogs and cats. Auctioneer David Goodman worked his magic during the live auction that raised nearly $200,000. Photos by Sparenga, Claire Demos and JuxtaposeFoto
Jim and Olivia Karas with pup Toni Smith.
Howard and Judy Tullman.
Magdalena Huk with pup Chicago.
Jim and Bonnie Spurlock.
Kendra Gillams (of WGCI) with dog Philidelphia.
PAWS Founder Paula Fasseas with Grand Ballroom emcee Natalie Bomke.
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CPD, public safety advocates focus on strong communities By Joseph Luther Freelance Reporter The Chicago Police Department (CPD) and community public safety advocates agree that working to promote and develop a strong sense of community tops their list of priorities for maintaining the safety of Chicago residents into the new year. Early in 2021, Chicago residents were still reeling in the wake of the unprecedented events from the year before. At a meeting last February, Deborah Gershbein, board president of the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) said, “We have certainly faced some huge challenges this year—the pandemic, the civil unrest, the looting of our neighborhood twice.” SOAR leaders and Chicago aldermen rep-
resenting Streeterville identified public safety and recovery among their priorities for the remainder of 2021. Moving ahead, SOAR will continue to advocate for quality-of-life issues on behalf of Streeterville residents and work with the city of Chicago on its recovery program, Gershbein said at the time. Now with 2021 winding down, neighborhoods bouncing back and residents hoping the worst effects of last year’s events are behind them, law enforcement and community leaders are placing a renewed focus on community building. Officials believe the efforts will promote public safety both in the near term and throughout 2022. The police alone cannot solve the city’s crime problems. It takes a combined effort of police, community, and City government working together,
according to the CPD website. In the near-term, the CPD is encouraging residents to follow some common sense, community-based safety measures: Try to shop with friends or relatives. Not only is there safety in numbers, but shopping in a group will give you a chance to catch up and renew friendships. When out, leave some lights on at home. You may also want to let a neighbor know that you will be out of the house. If you plan to be away for a longer period to visit friends or family, make sure to tell a neighbor or a friend who can help keep an eye on your house. Craig Kaiser, founder of the community group, Streeterville Neighborhood Advocates (SNA), agrees. His group encourages residents to be educated about the reality of crime and how to prevent it. “We must be genuinely engaged and work as a community and we must ensure that the environment around us is safe and designed to deter crime,” he said. This approach, advocated by law enforcement officials and community leaders, is centered on problem solving at the neighborhood level. It brings the police, the community and other agencies together to proactively identify and solve neighborhood crime problems rather than react after the fact. It’s not a new idea, but one that’s easily sidelined during times of turmoil when sudden events demand an l
Chicago police Sgt. Christoph Schenk speaks during a community event.
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immediate reaction, rather than a proactive, long-term strategy. A partnership between police, community leaders and residents requires a significant investment of time, energy and resources on all sides. Most believe the payoff is worth the expense. While cooperative public safety measures, in principle, have wide support among law enforcement agencies and community groups, specific deployment processes and procedures need to be periodically revisited and refined. The SNA anticipates they may adopt a new model in the spring of 2022. The city’s Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy, or CAPS, bridges communication between residents and local law enforcement through community meetings held throughout the year. Residents interested in attending CAPS beat meetings should contact their local alderman for details, and information about policing efforts in each district is available online at home. chicagopolice.org/about/police-districts.
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A supportive family key to students’ success By Angela Gagnon Community Contributor The Ryerson family of Chicago had their four young children enrolled in Chicago Public Schools when the pandemic hit nearly two years ago. They had to abruptly adapt to remote learning while parents Mark and Rebecca tried to keep up with their full-time work schedules. “It was awful—especially the lack of human interaction and schools trying to figure out how to navigate this new world,” Rebecca Ryerson said. “There was no way we could support four kids and their Zoom schedules.” When virtual school threatened again the following year, the family began a search for alternatives and transferred the children to a new school for the 2021-22 school year. “I can now look back and think about the positives,” Ryerson said. “My kids are so adaptable and flexible.” On her first day at her new school, Ryerson’s first-grade daughter assured her, “Don’t worry, Mom, I got this!” Ryerson says her children are young and don’t really remember pre-pandemic school. “We are moving forward together,” she said. Madison Thornton, a sophomore at Dwight D. Eisenhower High School, saw her experience change drastically when the pandemic hit. “I was in eighth grade when COVID first came,” Thornton said. “I was full of
The Ryerson children, ages 4-9, go on scavenger hunts during their remote learning time. Photo courtesy of Rebecca Ryerson
High school sophomore Madison Thornton (center) was inducted into the National Honor Society. Photo courtesy of Madison Thornton
emotions, and I was grieving the loss of my grandfather. I had to adjust to remote learning and life just felt totally different for me.” Thornton credits her family for helping her navigate the pandemic challenges and considers herself blessed to have an incredible support system. “My mother taught me that hard work pays off, so always give your best and work hard no matter what,” Thornton said. Thornton maintained her
4.0 GPA and was inducted into the National Honor Society. She is also slated to graduate early as a junior. Aarika Johnson is a second-year graduate student at National Louis University, an educational journey that has always been remote for her. “My professors, peers and my support system have been nothing but supportive and have made this experience positive,” said Johnson, who is also working full-time as a teacher while she completes her degree. “My family motivated me to go back to school during the pandemic and has supported me in every possible way,” Johnson added. “They have helped me to always work hard, believe in myself and pray.” Though she isn’t sure what the future holds for school, Johnson is planning to finish her program strong. “Hopefully things change and the world can come back to normal,” she said.
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Big changes for home design in 2022 By Joseph Luther Freelance Reporter Some of Chicago’s top-rated interior designers offered their insight into the latest trends and advice on creating a new look for the home in 2022. Rae Duncan, owner and Creative Director of Rae Duncan Interior Designs, and Jean Atchison of Chicago Luxury Interior Design Firm, Atchison Architectural Interiors, anticipate big changes in how families and businesses envision and use their living environments. Can you share some interior design trends we can expect to see in 2022? JEAN ATCHISON: Creating home offices will continue to be a trend in 2022. Whether it’s turning a small, unused space into a work area or dedicating an entire room for an office, how people view work has permanently changed. Another trend we’ll see is scaling back on the great room concept, or one large room for everything. Our clients have come to appreciate some separation when work, school and leisure activities all happen in one large space. RAE DUNCAN: I expect a lot more color—and crazier colors. Think an incredible magenta with chartreuse. I expect to see more modern design too. I think we have been in transitional hibernation and it’s beginning to dissipate. I expect furniture and lighting to only get better from here. We are seeing more unique fixtures and furniture that we used to see only with high-end designers infiltrating the mainstream. It will push designers and creators to the next level. Is 2022 a good year to renovate your home? JA: I think the decision to renovate is a personal decision and if a client is mentally ready to undertake a project, then 2022 will be a good year to renovate. One
Courtesy of Rae Duncan of Rae Duncan Interior Designs
of the most important things I can do for clients is to manage expectations. If there is a realistic understanding of current supply chain and workforce constraints, then clients should be comfortable moving forward with renovations. And the sooner the renovation is completed, the happier they are with their homes. RD: Yes, the market has been booming for years. Despite COVID, most of us have landed safely. More people are working from home than ever before. It is a renaissance—and not just for home environments—those commercial spots will have to try even harder to be amazing spaces to lure us out of our cozy homes. The supply chain issues are portrayed worse than they are. We can work around most things. Just have patience with your design team. If you had to choose one room to reno-
Courtesy of Jean Atchison of Atchison Architectural Interiors, a Chicago Luxury Interior Design Firm
vate, which would give the most bang for the buck? JA: I would choose the kitchen. It’s a difficult decision to make since it involves a large time and financial commitment. However, it’s the space that probably returns the greatest amount of pleasure because it is one of the most used and hardest working rooms in the home. RD: Kitchens, then bathrooms—tried and true. The largest portion of value in your home is in these rooms. Home offices have moved up on the list but they haven’t surpassed the value of investing in your bathrooms and kitchens. What do you say to homeowners who want to keep up with trends but just aren’t comfortable with a particular look? JA: Helping a client determine their
unique interior design style is what I consider my job. I help them understand the nuances of design and what works together. Finding out their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences is what turns a space into a home and furnishing a home should focus on trends that stand the test of time. Our goal is to design classic and timeless spaces infused with a chic modern vibe for fresh and sophisticated interiors. RD: My personal philosophy is that it’s your home. At the end of the day, what matters is that it’s endlessly enjoyable and stunning to you and your family. I suggest hiring a professional who can reimagine your space and elevate it, while suiting your needs. I’m also a “go big or go home person.” Cabinets and walls can be repainted. There is a lot you can change without making a significant commitment. Do what works for you.
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| TOP EVENT PICKS | 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
area on snowshoes (if snow is present), participating in winter crafts, and toasting marshmallows over campfires, among others. Also on Feb. 26. Noon to 3 p.m., Northerly Island, 1521 S. Linn White Drive, on the Museum Campus, chicagoparkdistrict.com
Love Actually? at the Apollo Theater Bob and Tobly McSmith, masters of the musical parody, offer a hilarious romp in the tradition of their previous smash hits, “The Office! A Musical Parody” and “Friends! The Musical Parody.” Celebrate the first of the year with the last Chicago showing this season. Ticket prices vary. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Apollo Theater, 2550 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 935-6100, apollochicago.com The Best Decision You’ve Ever Made at The Second City Why regret the decisions you’ve made when you can sit back and laugh at them instead? Second City’s live-action choose-your-own comedy invites you to be in on the joke. You’ll be reminded of all the ways our choices make us who we are. Tickets start at $29. Show times Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays, Saturdays at 7 and 10 p.m., Sundays at 5 p.m. through May 22, e.t.c. Theater, 230 W. North Ave., (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com
Jan. 2
Titanosaur 3D: Retrace the steps of the world’s largest dinosaur Follow scientists as they gather clues to understanding what life was like for the Field Museum’s titanosaur, Máximo. The Titanosaur 3D exhibit uses vividly photorealistic animation to imagine what these long-necked sauropods looked like and how they moved, ate and interacted. Travel back over 100 million years to get a glimpse of their Cretaceous environment and follow a titanosaur’s life from egg to towering titan. 3D movie times are subject to change, fieldmuseum.org
Jan. 12
The ABC7 Great Chicago Blood Drive The Red Cross is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. The low blood supply levels have forced some hospitals to defer patients from major surgery. Your donation is needed. For a full list of times and locations, visit abc7chicago.com. Appointments are strongly encouraged. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 12, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7437, navypier.org
Jan. 27
Love Actually? at the Apollo Theate, 2550 N. Lincoln Ave.
Jan. 17
‘An Unapologetic Dream: A MLK Day Celebration’ Hyde Park Art Center, in collaboration with Arts + Public Life and South Side Community Art Center, will offer a free public screening of “An Unapologetic Dream: A MLK Day Celebration” by Chicago filmmaker Ashley O’Shay, a film that gives a deep look into the Movement for Black Lives through the lens of abolitionist leaders Janae Bonsu and Bella Bahhs. 4-7 p.m., Hyde Park Art Center/Green Line Performing Arts Center, 329 E. Garfield Boulevard, free to the public — register at eventbrite.com
Jan. 20
Disney on Ice at the Allstate Arena Join Mickey’s Search Party and other classic Disney characters on a journey of adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, and amazing stunts. The show is suitable for all ages but recommended for ages two and up. Children under the age of two can attend without a ticket if they sit on a parent or guardian’s lap throughout the performance. Ticket prices vary. 7 p.m. Jan. 20, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Jan. 21 and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Jan. 22, Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont, (847) 635-6601, rosemont.com/allstate
Brush up on your Shakespeare at the Chicago Academy for the Arts The Academy Theatre and Musical Theatre Department are gearing up to present their 11th Annual Brush Up Your Shakespeare Festival. Expect a rousing selection of the best of the master’s work, yet to be announced. Check for details to be released online. 3:30 p.m. Jan. 20 through 4:30 p.m. Jan. 22, The Chicago Academy for the Arts, 1010 W. Chicago Ave., (312) 421-0202, chicagoacademyforthearts.org Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival The fourth edition of The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival will feature over 100 performances and events at dozens of venues, neighborhoods and civic collaborators all around Chicago. From bunraku, to shadow to crankie scroll, puppets take over for an amazing 10 days and nights of inspiration and invention. Through Jan. 30, various locations, chicagopuppetfest.org
Jan. 22
Polar Adventure Day at Northerly Island Activities at Polar Adventure Day at Northerly Island include watching husky dog teams sled around the peninsula, observing birds of prey, exploring the
Winter Open House at The Mid-America Club The Mid-America Club invites Chicago Star readers to learn about membership and “Community in the Sky” at the Winter Open House. Expand your local network, make valuable connections and enjoy views from the 80th floor of the Aon Center. Reservations are required and space is limited. RSVP to the Membership Director at (312) 8569484 or email melissa.czyz@clubcorp. com. Business-casual attire is requested. 6-7:30 p.m. Aon Center, 80th floor, 200 E. Randolph St., clubcorp.com/clubs/ mid-america-club
Jan. 28
Courtney Mackedanz performs at the Arts Club of Chicago Hannah Levy’s exhibition in The Arts Club’s gallery, “Surplus Tension,” allures viewers with skin-textured materials and references to furniture while simultaneously distancing spectators with cold metal, peaked talons. Dancemaker Courtney Mackedanz, embodies an inquisitive movement interaction with the exhibition, joining Levy’s works in an artistic exploration of the relationship between the skin as a surface and the armatures of structure that lay beneath. Free. 6-8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 28, The Arts Club of Chicago, 201 E. Ontario St., (312) 787-3997, artsclubchicago.org
Jan. 29
Chicago Ale Fest at Navy Pier The winter edition of the Chicago Ale Fest returns to Navy Pier in January. Enjoy craft beers from 150 vendors, food trucks and a DJ at one of the most anticipated winter beer events of the year. Noon-5 p.m., Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E. Grand Ave., chicagoalefest.net
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A round up of Chicago's top stories Chicago Park District winter registration opens The Chicago Park District’s winter programming session begins Jan. 3, with most programs running through March 20. Activities include ice skating, ceramics and fitness, as well as the Park Kids after-school program offered at select parks throughout Chicago. Aquatic classes are scheduled to start Jan. 18. The park district will continue to offer virtual programming options such as kickboxing and bingo for youth, adults and seniors. Visit chicagoparkdistrict.com to register for a program online.
Boosters available for older teens The COVID-19 booster shot is now available for all Chicagoans 16 and older at Chicago Department of Public Health-sponsored clinics and events, as well as through the Protect Chicago at Home program. In December, the FDA and CDC approved a third booster dose for 16- and 17-year-olds who finished their initial COVID-19 vaccination series at least six months ago. All eligible Chicagoans are advised to get their booster dose.
Maggie Daley Park welcomes ice skaters Enjoy ice skating in downtown Chicago on the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, now through March 13. Skaters can lace up and wind around a winding ice-covered path that’s twice the length of a lap around a traditional rink. This year’s edition of the ribbon will be decorated with designs inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” and “Starry Night” paintings, a collaboration between the art exhibition “Immersive Van Gogh” and Chicago Park District. Admission to the Skating Ribbon is free during weekdays if you bring your own skates; otherwise, reservations are $5
The Chicago Auto Show will return to McCormick Place Feb. 12-21 and feature a number of interactive exhibits.
Chicago Auto Show returns to McCormick Place
“Frida: Immersive Dream,” from production company Lighthouse Immersive, highlights the work of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.
Frida Kahlo exhibition to replace “Immersive Van Gogh” In February 2022, after a yearlong run at the Germania Club Building in Old Town, the popular experiential art exhibit “Immersive Van Gogh” will be replaced by a new visual spectacle, “Frida: Immersive Dream,” from production company Lighthouse Immersive, this time dedicated to the work of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Much like its predecessor, “Frida: Immersive Dream” will showcase animated video projections of some of the artist’s most iconic paintings, including works like “The Two Fridas” and “The Wounded Deer,” alongside a selection of drawings, iconography and photographs of the artist at various stages of her life. (with skates on weekends on holidays) or $16–$20 if you need to rent a pair.
Greater Chicago Food Depository seeking volunteers The Greater Chicago Food Depository is looking for volunteers to assist with its “repack sessions,” which involve placing quantities of bulk food into packages for families and individuals. Tasks include assembling food boxes, checking expiration dates, repacking products such as pasta and rice, labeling items and more. For more information, visit chicagosfoodbank.org.
Winterland in Gallagher Way open through February Chicagoans can enjoy the sights of Winterland at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville through Feb. 20. This year’s event, designed to spread joy and holiday cheer through its many seasonal programs and activities, includes the return of the famous Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, ice skating on an 8,000-square-foot ice rink, curling and skating lessons, Santa’s Workshop, wreath-making classes, holiday movie screenings, special programming at Hotel Zachary and much more.
The Chicago Auto Show will return to McCormick Place in its traditional time frame from Feb. 12-21. The show will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day—except for the final day of the show (Presidents Day), when it will close at 8 p.m. The show will also feature a lineup of interactive activities within the various exhibits. Also new this year, the show organizers will honor first responders and military personnel by hosting a First Responders and Military Appreciation Day on Tuesday, Feb. 5. On this day, all first responders and military may visit an identified location at the event to show their badge or military ID for free entry. New to this year’s transformation are ice bumper cars and even more festive decor.
Hold and feed a bunny
Looking for a unique thing to do in Chicago? Visit the Cuddle Bunny in Chicago, where visitors can pet and feed bunnies. Cuddle Bunny also hosts special events like yoga and story time and is open daily from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Activities and bunny interaction after 6 p.m. are by reservation only (Cuddle Bunny, 2901 N Clark St., cuddlebunnyccc.com)
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| COMMUNITY CORNER |
Doorperson of the Month
JANUARY 2022 / 13
Happy New Year Streeterville! From your neighbors:
Jean R. Dunord, The Grand Ohio, 211 E. Ohio St. By Susan Berkes Freelance Reporter Jean R. Dunord’s 22year tenure as a door staff member at The Grand Ohio, 211 E. Ohio St., in Streeterville is the latest chapter in a fascinating life. Born in Haiti, Dunord arrived in the U.S. nearly 30 years ago and chose to settle in Chicago because of family. He speaks four languages: French, Creole, Spanish and English. Dunord’s mission and motto have always been “providing the best customer service for the residents at The Grand Ohio—and helping with a bit of French.” Many of the building’s residents studied French as a second language and take the opportunity to brush up on their conversational skills by chatting with Dunord. The two biggest changes Dunord has seen during his time at The Grand Ohio are pandemic-related: checkins for the building’s food deliveries and packages must now be handled in a pandemic-safe way. “So far, so good,” he said of keeping residents and staff members safe. One major issue has been eradicated at The Grand Ohio in the last few years: A parking garage has been built at the back of the building. Prior to the garage, the building was subject to Chicago’s cold snaps making their way inside. Now, resi-
Gail Spreen, Dennis Downes
Here’s to a prosperous 2022!
Cap Streeter & Spot
Your Streeterville Expert (312) 925-7668 Gail@StreetervilleProperties.com Jean R. Dunord, door staff member at The Grand Ohio, is the January Doorperson of the Month. Photos by Susan Berkes
The Grand Ohio, 211 E. Ohio St. in Streeterville.
dents can easily access the parking garage with their vehicles and avoid winter weather when entering the building. Dunord remains happy with his tenure at The Grand Ohio and is proud of being an American citizen after receiving his GED and studying at both Triton College and DePaul
University. He currently resides in Evanston with his wife and family. 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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Live like you’re from the greatest generation
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Graffiti artist Corey Pane’s mural at 416 S. Halsted St. memorializes Chicago rapper Juice WRLD. Photos by Oliver Martier
GRAFFITI GREATS
City neighborhoods feature various art themes By Susan Berkes Freelance Reporter While the word “graffiti” may carry a negative connotation, many artists in Chicago have elevated graffiti to a broadly accepted form of art in a number of areas that residents and tourists go out of their way to visit. Logan Park, Pilsen, Wicker Park, Ukrainian Village’s Vertical Gallery, Wabash Arts Corridor and West Loop’s Hubbard Tunnel are among the most popular, with each area of graffiti boasting a different theme. The Wabash Arts Corridor originated from a public art project, while the artwork indigenous to Pilsen is rooted in the subject of the effects of gentrification in Chicago neighborhoods. In Wicker Park, many murals represent hip-hop culture. Chicago is home to a number of popular street artists who have left their mark on the city. According to UrbanMatter, Max Sansing, an artist raised on Chicago’s South Side, created “New Frontiers, Same Old Nine” on a 79th Street building in the South Shore last year. Fellow South Side artist Kayla Mahaffey’s “Joined as
A mural by artist Jake Merten at 429 N. Green St. in West Town incorporates characters from the television series Dragon Ball Z.
One” mural can be found at the same South Shore location. Chicagoan “KOZMO” Lopez has painted her signature “burger flowers” in Little Village and Back of the Yards, while Lauren Asta, who moved from California to Chicago in 2016, launched the first of her distinctive murals in the Fulton Market District. A spokesperson for the Museum of Contemporary Art said the late Virgil Abloh “did much to further the graffiti medium as a source of artistic expression due to his influence as a designer.” In 2019, Abloh’s
“Figures of Speech” was featured at the MCA. DePaul Art Museum, interim manager Laura Carolyn cites the “Stockyard Institute: 25 Years of Art and Radical Pedagogy” exhibit as a source of knowledge for the evolution of graffiti as an artform, “reinvigorating spaces in the city that benefit from such art.” According to Carolyn, the exponential growth of graffiti murals is historically based and recognized by education systems for teaching purposes. The exhibit runs through February 2022.
ne of my New Year’s resolutions is to be more truthful. It’s not like I’m some huge liar, but I do act excited for things I don’t want to go to and sometimes I’ll agree with people just to end conversations. Maybe my resolution isn’t to be more truthful per se, maybe it’s to be more like the greatest generation. Bridget McGuire When my grandma was 93, I went to visit COMMUNITY her. We were having a lovely conversation CONTRIBUTOR when she looked me straight in the eyes and said, “You know, my daughters dote on their grandchildren. They spoil them; they’re crazy about them. I never felt that about mine.” Hmmm. I patted my knees and stood up. “Well, this is the last time I’m coming to Smith Village Senior Living,” I said and left. I’m joking. I didn’t say that to my grandma. I laughed extremely hard and said, “I love your honesty.” People from the greatest generation didn’t give a you know what... pardone my french. Don’t get me wrong, my grandparents were polite and kind people, they were just brutally honest. When I was 13, I came home from school crying. My grandpa was over at my house. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” he asked. “I got weighed today in gym class. I need to lose 20 pounds!” I screamed. “No, that’s crazy. Just lose like 7 to 13 pounds. And lay off those Oreos.” I can’t blame this on old age, their minds weren’t going. They were smart, quick-witted and good people—they just didn’t have time to worry about hurting others feelings. They survived the Depression, fought in World War II and raised Baby Boomers. My maternal grandfather grew up extremely poor and only completed 3rd grade. When he was 16, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps and was sent to live in Seattle to guard a lighthouse by himself. He eventually fought in WWII and became a Chicago police officer. My fraternal grandmother lost her mom at age 4 and her dad at age 13. At 16, she was tasked with finding her aunt and siblings a new apartment. She went onto college and became a school librarian. When I was 16, I was begging my mom to buy me overpriced Abercrombie sweaters, not guarding a lighthouse or house hunting for my family. Their lives were tough but they made the best of it. They were honest because it’s the one thing no one could take from them. At times, they were a little too honest but maybe that’s what people need—the honest to God truth. Besides, their honesty makes for great stand-up material. 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.
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JANUARY 2022 / 15
| NEWS BREAK |
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New year, new attitude
o, despite the headline, this is not going to be your typical “it’s a new year, so bring in a new attitude” column. Although nothing is wrong with those, and any kind of motivation to improve one’s outlook on life is not to be minimized, however in this month’s column we take a slightly Jon Cohn COMMUNITY different approach. CONTRIBUTOR I am going to call it “make a move.” Meaning this: If you are thinking of doing something a little out of your normal comfort zone, maybe something you have thought of before but never acted on, or a completely new idea that fascinates you, the theory is to just do it. Make a move. What is the old saying? The only regrets you have are
Jumble
the ones you never acted on. It holds solidly true here. When I look back at my life there were three “make a move” moments that helped change my life. Interestingly, none of them at the time were major or dramatic decisions, just simple moments of taking a little chance. One was calling up my local recreation department at the age of 16 to see if they might need any coaches: A seemingly innocent, but still tough-to-make phone call for a young teenager that turned into a 40-year-plus coaching career. The second was reading a small advertisement about doing your own radio program. After much consternation, I finally called and pursued it, which led to many years of something I really enjoyed doing: sports talk radio on three different radio stations. The third is why you get to hear from me every month here. I never had any training or experience as a writer, when somewhat haphazardly, I contacted our local
hometown newspaper to see if they might want someone to write on community sports programs. The editor was less than thrilled with the prospect, to be honest, but he let me do a couple columns. Long story short, it led to writing every week for the paper for six years, two books and my “contributing columnist” gig at Chicago Star. So, you never know. But you won’t know unless you take that chance. It could be a minor adjustment in your current job, or maybe some unique idea that you have wanted to try, or maybe talking to that girl or guy that you have been afraid to approach. Any seemingly little thing could end up having a major positive impact on your own life. But you won’t know until you “make a move.” Jon Cohn is a New Eastside resident. Email ideas for Jon to info@chicagostarmedia.com
Community photo
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NSTWOMORS NEURTOLOSI
Send photos and captions of things going on in the neighborhood to info@chicagostarmedia.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.
The act of counting numbers backwards before an important event: Previous puzzle answer: A plant or tree that keeps its foliage throughout the year: EVERGREEN
When the holidays are over and you gotta face reality again
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? Big bear at Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel, celebrated its 150th anniversary and National Brownie Day Dec. 8. The original brownie recipe was invented at the hotel. Photo by Candid Candace Jordan
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