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Mike Stehlmach, Chuck Kinnerk, Mike Grabarek and Steve Norman from Engine Co. 13. Photo by Daniel Patton
Presidential street poll goes outside the box Page 8
ESPN’s Sarah Spain Podcast shines spotlight doesn’t pull any punches on older women Page 10
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2 / OCTOBER 2020
New Eastside NEWS Streeterville NEWS How to Contact Us
West Loop NEWS info@chicagostarmedia.com 200 E. Randolph St. Suite 5100 Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 690-3092 Publisher and Editor: Elaine Hyde elainehyde@chicagostarmedia.com Director of Brand Development Jay Kopp jaykopp@chicagostarmedia.com Managing Editor Daniel Patton danielpatton@chicagostarmedia.com Staff Writers: Angela Gagnon angelagagnon@chicagostarmedia.com Nuria Mathog nuriamathog@chicagostarmedia.com Copy Editors: Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design: Bob Oswald boboswald@chicagostarmedia.com Community Contributor: Jon Cohn joncohn@chicagostarmedia.com
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 Oct. 1, 2020 Copyright ©2020. All rights reserved.
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| LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | Children should be admired for helping those in need I am the founder of the organization known as The Chicago Help Initiative (“CHI”) whose mission is to feed and otherwise assist the homeless and/or disadvantaged individuals who live in Chicago. You featured an article in July about New Eastside kids trading rocks for donations to help out during the pandemic. The children are to be admired for their efforts in helping those in need. They volunteered at one of CHI’s meals and they served the food and interfaced with approximately 150 guests whom we fed in the dining hall at 721 N. LaSalle St. before the coronavirus when large gatherings were permitted. At that meal as volunteers, they were actively involved in serving the hot meal and in conversations with the guests being fed and they treated the guests with warmth and respect. Their participation was so very welcomed and made our guests feel special. When I read the article about the kids trading rocks for donations, I was blown away to realize that the
impact of their volunteering with CHI was not just a one-time occurrence but that they recognized a need and were willing and able to raise funds to continue to help people who are less fortunate than themselves. It is good to know that these wonderful children were willing to go the extra mile to be both compassionate and generous. We should all be proud of them. I know I am. Jacqueline C. Hayes, Founder, Chicago Help Initiative
Motorcyclists driving downtown are a nuisance I am dismayed by your decision to feature motorcyclist Fred Gipson on the cover of the September New Eastside News. Motorcyclists driving through downtown Chicago are an undeniable nuisance to most of your readers who live or work near Michigan Avenue. It’s not a neutral activity—most cyclists who parade downtown have unmuffled machines, with the noise level increased with sound systems, like Mr. Gipson’s, “with a pair of woofers in the back.” Additionally, after the
Luna and Teddy. Photo courtesy of Roy Barbe
Sturgis SD motorcycle rally was linked to 20% of the U.S. COVID-19 cases in August, it is journalistic irresponsibility to note without comment that Mr. Gipson is “unencumbered by social distancing requirements” on his way to a Tinley Park motorcycle rally. Could Daniel Patton have gotten the lede and featured photograph for his piece more wrong? Douglas Morrison
Chicago Star Media helps find lost dog I would like to personally thank Jay Kopp at Chicago Star Media. After reaching out to whomever I could, Jay Kopp took my email, and hit the ground running. Without hesitation Jay Kopp ran with our story of our lost Luna and
posted it all over social media. He then reached out to me days later to ask if he could repost. Throughout these long and exhausting nine days, Jay always tossed in a message to me asking if there have been any updates. Thank you so much Jay Kopp. I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done. Roy Barbe Editor’s note: Roy Barbe’s dog Luna was lost for more than a week before being found under a crate at a construction site. She would not come out from the crate until she was led out by Barbe’s other dog Teddy. Read about the search for Luna and how the dog was found at chicagostarmedia.com. Send letters to Elaine Hyde, elainehyde@chicagostarmedia.com
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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 distancing 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.
Jon Cohn’s column in the September New Eastside News and Streeterville News, They said ‘try something new,’ so I did, incorrectly stated that he had received a pedicure at the Cuticle Nail Salon. In fact, Cohn received a pedicure from a salon named Cuticle. The item also contained a photo of Cohn not wearing a mask inside the salon. Cohn wore a mask for the visit, but removed it for the photo. Cuticle requires staff and customers to wear masks. Chicago Star Media policy requires all staff to wear masks when covering assignments indoors. A news item published in the July issue of Streeterville News and New Eastside News, “Shirley Ryan AbilityLab retains No. 1 rank,” did not clarify that the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab was formerly known as the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and that it had moved into its current Streeterville location in 2017. We regret the errors.
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| NEWS BRIEFS | Diversity, remote offices help ‘workforce agility,’ Aon survey Global professional services firm Aon has released the results of a new COVID-19 Pulse Survey focused on how companies are rethinking their human capital strategies in response to the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Conducted during August, the study, “Accelerating Workforce Agility and Resilience,” features insight from more than 2,000 human resources leaders and professionals. According to the survey, keys to success include attracting diverse employees, creating inclusive cultures and implementing helpful remote working arrangements.
“This study demonstrates how companies are actively preparing for the future of work,” said Michael Burke, chief executive officer for Aon’s Human Capital business. While continuing to struggle with the “acute challenges” of the pandemic, “the degree to which firms are focused on improving workforce agility and making remote working effective is incredible.” The study includes data on performance management practices, rewards programs, workforce actions including layoffs and furloughs, the state of hiring, and adjustments to time-off policies.
Chicago Public School students set graduation record Chicago Public School students set a record high 5-year graduation rate of 82.5 percent this year, according to CPS and Mayor Lori Lightfoot. “Despite the many challenges they faced, our students still managed to take another huge leap forward in their journey toward achievement and success thanks to the shared efforts of our CPS families, teachers, principals, and staff,” said the mayor. “This record graduation rate isn’t just a statistic, it represents a revolution in how we value education in our city and how we support our students’ futures.” The news came in an announcement that emphasized the academic progress of Latinx and African American students. Both groups achieved significant increases over 2019 with a 2.2 percentage point increase (from 82.3 percent to 84.5 percent) for Latinx students and 1.2 percentage point increase (from 76.8 percent to 78 percent) for African American students. In total, the graduation
A friend, mother, and professional, Chef Jill Dedinsky added a unique set of ingredients to Chicago’s cultural scene. Photos courtesy of The Goddess and Grocer
Goddess and Grocer announces cupcake tribute to Chef Jill Dedinsky
Kenwood Academy, 5015 S. Blackstone Ave. Photo by TonyTheTiger, courtesy of Wiki Commons
rate for 2020 is 27 percentage points higher than that of 2010, when only 55.8 percent of CPS students earned a diploma. A pair of initiatives helped fuel the increases. The Critical Remote Learning Initiatives include devices and connectivity. The Critical Initiatives to Support Learning in All Settings include additional support staff, in-class math tutoring, and curriculum equity. “As a district we have made incredible progress
over the past decade by transforming the experiences of our high school students through strengthening our focus on programming, social-emotional support and counseling,” said CPS CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson. “Nothing has driven this success more than the hard work of our students, counselors, educators, and school leaders.” Chicago Public Schools serves 355,000 students in 638 schools. It is the nation’s third-largest school district.
The Goddess and Grocer has created the “Jilly” Bean Cupcake in honor of their executive chef Jill Dedinsky, who died Friday, Aug. 28, after suffering a sudden brain aneurysm. A friend, mother, and professional, Chef Jill added a unique set of ingredients to Chicago’s cultural scene. “Her energy was boundless,” Chicago chef Ida Pinkney told WBBM Radio’s Steve Miller. “Boundless energy. And her love of feeding people was part of that.” Chef Jill is survived by her son, Jay Ridgway, and friends who have established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover her medical expenses and support Jay. The “Jilly” Bean Cupcake features Goddess vanilla cake topped with hot pink buttercream (to match Chef Jill’s vibrant chef coat) and white choco-
The “Jilly” Bean Cupcake features Chef Jill Dedinsky’s favorite Goddess vanilla cake topped with hot pink buttercream (to match her vibrant chef coat) and white chocolate shavings.
late shavings. Proceeds from the cupcakes, which sell for $3.95, will be donated to the Special Olympics. To purchase cupcakes, stop by any Goddess and Grocer location.
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| FEATURES |
Cooking with Engine Co. 13 Local firefighters try to gather for meals
By Daniel Patton Staff Writer Besides saving lives, the members of the The dining area at Chicago Fire Department’s Engine Co. 13 includes a long table lined with a dozen chairs, a TV, a pool table, and additional Chicago Fire Department’s Engine Co. 13 seating to allow for proper social distancing. Photos by Daniel Patton observe another great American tradition: They try to always eat together. on Nov. 22, 1976, stands near the entrance CORNBREAD CASSEROLE “If one of the trucks is out on a call, on Columbus Drive. WITH SERRANO PEPPERS we’ll all wait,” said Capt. Chuck Kinnerk, In their line of work, it’s often hard for 1 8.5-ounce box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix a 20-year veteran who leads everyone to get together for 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted one of three teams that romealtimes, but when they 1 15.25-ounce can of whole kernel tate in 24-hour shifts at 259 do, Kinnerk estimated “it’s corn (drained) N. Columbus Drive. “We got usually about 17 people.” 1 15-ounce can of creamed style corn 1 cup sour cream a nice little view outside and, Firefighter Rob Parks does 2 eggs you know, we all gather for most of the cooking, but he 6 medium-sized serrano and jalapeño lunch and dinner.” was on furlough for a few peppers, finely chopped The dining area, located weeks in September. The Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease in the rear of the fire station, next choice was firefighter a 1-1/2 quart casserole dish. Pour includes a long rectangular Steve “Norm” Norman, a margarine or butter and corn into dish. table lined with a dozen culinary school graduate Blend in sour cream. In separate bowl, chairs, a TV, a pool table, beat eggs and stir into casserole. Add whose “go-to” is the shrimp muffin mix. Blend thoroughly. Add and additional seating to po’boy sandwich with homechopped peppers. Blend more. Bake allow for proper distancing. made remoulade sauce. But 35 – 40 minutes or until center is firm. Firefighters get a fire going “Everybody spreads out. It’s with Norm on driver duty, to cook two ten-pound pretty deep back there so, the company turned to Mike beef briskets. when Firefighter Mike Grabarek arrived you know, all the little kids Stelmach, who began his firewith two ten-pound beef briskets he have to go to the card table in the back,” fighting career on the same day he arrived A firefighter prepares for lunch at Engine had purchased from R. Whittingham & Kinnerk joked. at the station, March 1, 2019. Co. 13. Sons Meat Co., a butcher shop on 127th Built in 1981, Engine Co. 13 is a According to Kinnerk, Stelmach would St. in Alsip. one-story glass and metal structure that him, lending a hand. be the point person in “a group effort” “A bunch of us came in early and got the also contains Chicago’s Air–Sea Rescue “It just goes back to—you’re a family,” with “four or five people” helping to smoker going,” he said. “We rubbed a dry unit and Battalion Chief Roman Paluch’s said Paluch, a 30-year veteran who overease the burden of making meals. sweet seasoning over one of the briskets. office. In addition to the dining area, it is sees four firehouses and the department’s But on the afternoon of Sept. 10, Steloutfitted with a stainless steel kitchen and fire boat. “You’re together. You take care of Then we rubbed another spicy dry seamach said, “I got forced to cook.” a garage that houses two fire trucks and an each other. You goof around. You joke and soning over the other brisket. We threw In the kitchen, he mixed batter for the meat on the smoker at about 6 o’clock ambulance. A memorial to firefighter Wal- cornbread casserole with serrano peppers. you enjoy the meal together.” ter Watroba, who died in the line of duty Preparation that day began at 5:30 a.m., Continued on page 12 A handful of smiling coworkers were with l l l
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Open House Chicago 2020 embraces self-guided exploration
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By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer Open House Chicago, a citywide architectural showcase organized by the Chicago Architecture Center, returns this fall in a modified format that emphasizes neighborhood exploration and self-guided tours, as well as virtual programming. Now in its 10th year, the annual event will span a 10-day period from Friday, Oct. 16, to Sunday, Oct. 26, and feature architectural highlights from more than 20 neighborhoods in Chicago, as well as the Oak Park and Evanston suburbs. Open House Chicago is part of the international Open House Worldwide network, launched in London in 1992, to celebrate architecture in nearly four dozen cities around the globe. The Chicago Architecture Center began exploring ways to incorporate a virtual component into the experience in May, said Hallie Rosen, the center’s director of program operations. “The priority for us was that we wanted to make sure the public is safe,” she said. “The event traditionally involves a lot of people. We’ve usually had 2,000 volunteers that would be at every site and welcome people, and everybody would go into the buildings.” This year, for the first time, guests can navigate the event with the help of
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The Héctor Duarte Studio in Pilsen has been confirmed as a site in this year’s Open House Chicago. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers
an Open House Chicago mobile app, which offers a map of the sites, audio files, photos and text-based content. It will be available for download at the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store in October. “Wherever you’re standing, it will pop up where you are and what’s near you to look at,” Rosen said. “There’s going to be so much more to do, and I think in many ways, the program’s going to be very engaging.” To accommodate architecture aficionados unable to attend in person, the event also includes around two dozen virtual programs and tours. Chicago Architecture Center members will also have exclusive access to a series of half-hour virtual neighborhood tours hosted by local civic and public figures. This year, Open House Chicago is shining a spotlight on neighborhoods that are part of Chicago’s INVEST South/West initiative, such as North
Lawndale, Englewood, Austin and Humboldt Park. As of late September, 15 other focus areas had been confirmed, including Logan Square, Chicago’s Loop, Beverly, Wicker Park and Woodlawn. One notable addition to Open House Chicago’s neighborhood line-up is Chinatown. In addition to highlighting the Pui Tak Center and Chinese American Museum of Chicago, the event offers an Innovation Trail highlighting architecturally significant buildings. Grace Chan McKibben, executive director of Coalition for a Better Chinese American Community, said the coalition was proud to partner with Open House Chicago to showcase Chinatown’s rich history and cultural heritage. Other confirmed sites at this year’s event are the Héctor Duarte Studio in Pilsen, the Pullman State Historic Site and Hotel Florence in Pullman and The Forum in Bronzeville.
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| FEATURES |
Presidential street poll Choice includes anyone in the world
By Daniel Patton Staff Writer What if people had the power to send anyone to the White House? Residents and visitors name their choices for president if the ballot was expanded to include anyone in the world. Go to chicagostarmedia.com to see more responses. l
I would pick my mom because she’s awesome. She’s like the best person in my life. LELIANA S. and her mother, TIFFANY H. East Chicago, Ind.
Michelle Obama. Intelligence, kindness, unity … she is a great leader. You know, she was in the White House with her husband for eight years, and I believe she helped him run the show. IRENE BROWN Streeterville, retired, nonprofit sector
Oprah Winfrey. I think she’s smart. I think she’d bring the country together, and I think she’s a good soul. JIM STOLLER Streeterville, President/CEO, The Building Group
Barack Obama. He’s such an incredible role model for young African American men and men of color. I think he is astute in his quest for excellence for not only the presidency, but also for America. Another person I would love to see in the White House but can’t bring back is Martin Luther King. His empathy, his compassion, his character, his commitment to freedom for all … every adjective you can think of. DREW BROWN Streeterville, Air Force veteran, 22 years of service
Barack Obama. It started with him. I don’t have anything against Donald Trump, but my thing is, when (Obama) was in office, he did a lot of things, so I know that he has the ability to do it. He was intertwined with the crowd. He was for the people … and I really enjoyed that. MICHAEL BLACHER, SR. Chicago, Food Service Attendant, Northwestern Medicine
Myself. If you let Donald Trump do it, why can’t I do it? MESSIAH G. Chicago, Chef, Northwestern Medicine
Gandhi. He knows how to get everyone to channel their inner-peace. Or, actually, no, no, no: there’s a guy named Moojiji, and he’s (like a) new-age Gandhi and he has workshops which help people not only break down their barriers mentally but also learn how to just become themselves. SALENA HAMILTON Atlanta, brand marketing for nonprofits Kanye. It would be funny, but I’m just playing with you. MIGUEL SUAREZ Decatur Ind., student at Ivy Tech
Chamille: I’m exhausted at this point. I’ll just take anyone. I’m like, I’ll just take the Joe Biden route and just say all in. C’mon, Joe, let’s do it. Brad: I’m going to go right there with her. CHAMILLE L. and BRAD M. Chicago, Northwestern graduate students
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| FEATURES |
Officer Roger Webster and Officer Quentin Bryce.
Copcakes is an event that helps people and police remove anxiety and get into a “casual relationship,” according to organizer Craig Kaiser. Photos by Daniel Patton
Streeterville shows support for police at Copcakes event By Daniel Patton Staff Writer Dozens of neighbors gathered at Ogden Plaza on Sept. 18 to enjoy Copcakes, an opportunity for residents to meet, greet, and eat with the law enforcement professionals who serve and protect Streeterville. After fueling up on coffee and pastries provided by a local Starbucks at 401 E. Ontario St., attendees greeted police with an abundance of gratitude. Sergeant Christoph Schenk returned the appreciation. “Come up to us, talk to us,” he said. “Whatever your concerns are, we’re here to talk with you.” Sergeant Schenk is a 25-year law enforcement veteran who has worked in the 18th district, which includes the Streeterville neighborhood, for “around 16 or 17 years.” He said that “family, partnership, and everyone coming together” are just a few of the things that make it a great place to be. “We’re all neighbors. We’re all community partners. The intermingling at events like this bring people together to converse and discuss,” he said. Sergeant Schenk organized the event with CAPS facilitator and Streeterville Neighborhood Advocates co-founder Craig Kaiser. They based the concept on a national program called “Coffee with the Cops.” “It’s a way to give recognition to the police and get the community together,” said Kaiser. “But most importantly, it’s to kind of take down that barrier. You get into a very casual relationship, and I think it’s more important for the officers to take down that anxiety about meeting people, because you never know what you’re going to get.”
Kaiser attended with his wife Diane, a retired real estate agent who described the CPD’s performance this year as excellent. “We just want to give a thank you to the police,” she said. Streeterville residents Karen and Steven Shaer felt the same way. “We support the police fully,” said Steven. “It’s a tough job, and we obviously want to know what’s going on in our neighborhood.” “They’re a friendly bunch,” said Mike Ewing, a retired office worker who moved into the neighborhood about a year and a half ago. “They go out of their way to say hi, and to keep us safe is a tough job. Grumpy neighbors complain about the noise, the caravans, the motorcycle parades, but that’s the neighborhood.” A trio of retired health care professionals came from Lake Point Tower to show their appreciation—physician Anita Balodis, nurse Marsha Braunlich, and physician Dr. Mary Lou Tomyanovich. “My grandfather and my uncle were Chicago policemen, and my father was a Chicago fireman,” said Tomyanovich. “I’m very grateful for the service of the police, and my son is an emergency medicine doctor and he thanks the police for how much they help in the cities for working with patients in distress and so forth.” Tomyanovich also expressed a concern that “public officials are not demonstrating enough of the social distancing and mask-wearing.” But all the police in attendance dutifully observed the proper safety measures. Members of the professional community turned out as well. “I think the police in this neighborhood are terrific
Streeterville residents Karen and Steven Shaer.
Diane Kaiser, Craig Kaiser and Anita Balodis.
and do a wonderful job,” said Amy Lemar, who works at nearby Wintrust Bank. According to Officer Roger Webster and Officer Quentin Bryce, 25-year-veterans who have worked in Streeterville for about five years, the event achieved its goal. When asked what made it worthwhile, Webster said, “getting to meet the people and showing them that we are real people and not something you see on television.” “It’s refreshing to know that there are people that support us,” added Bryce. “It’s a tough job, and just to know that people out here actually support us and understand what we do. We’re trying to serve the public and keep everybody safe.”
10 / SEPTEMBER 2020
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| LOCAL LEADERS |
Where does Sarah Spain get the nerve? I moved back to Chicago, until 2014 or so, I was mostly doing Chicago-based sports. Six or seven years ago, I started doing only national radio on Around the Horn. That switch made it much more difficult to keep up with Chicago teams, especially when they’re not very good. We’re not talking about teams nationally if they suck. I’ll only defend Chicago teams when they deserve it, so when I take shots at Knicks fans I can point to my criticism of the Bulls, too.
By Daniel Patton Staff Writer Sarah Spain has risen to the top of a male-dominated industry by wielding an abundance of knowledge, humor, and righteousness. Besides writing for espnW and co-hosting Spain and Fitz on national ESPN Radio, she hosts the podcast, That’s What She Said, and makes frequent appearances as a guest on TV shows, Around the Horn and Highly Questionable. Words like “game-changer,” “trailblazer,” and “disruptor” can be used to describe her success. But the truth is that she has earned it all by being Sarah Spain, a Cornell graduate and track team co-captain from Lake Forest who gets paid to be herself. When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a cast member on Saturday Night Live, and I still do. Who do you admire? My mom for sure. She is a full-time lawyer who could also run a 5K and weave a quilt and bake and do all those things. Michael Jordan is my biggest sports inspiration. Your father is a lawyer and your sister also went to law school, how has that shaped your personality? We had a very healthy respect for logic and facts in our house. My parents were really into thoughtful media, so I grew up being really curious and intellectual. Probably because of that whole vibe, I’ve always been very intrigued by debate. Not in a litigious way so much as in asking questions and finding out why. I had a few occasions in my youth when I petitioned to not do what the authorities were saying, including not attending every physical education class in high school because I was on three varsity sports, was getting all the P.E. requirements from those and didn’t have enough time in the day for band, chorus and my academic classes. I used Illinois state law to write up why it was not necessary. Eventually,
Sarah Spain co-hosts a show on national ESPN Radio. Photo courtesy of Sarah Spain
the school said you can take it as sort of a pass/fail. You’re a Chicagoan, Cubs or Sox? Oh, Cubs, for sure. I know someone who celebrated the White Sox 2005 World Series victory by driving through Wrigleyville and taunting Cubs fans. That’s just so dumb. You know what I mean? I’m much more interested in being excited about my team than in taking out the other one. I was living in L.A. when the White Sox won the series, but I still felt this tie to Chicago so I was happy for them. When I came back and went to Crosstown Classics, I got it. It’s not really about not liking the other team, it’s about the opposing team’s fans. But I’ve never disliked the White Sox. How do you stay excited about a team after it has been eliminated from postseason play? It’s my job. From the end of 2008, when
How has your work life been affected by the pandemic? I’ve been doing a lot of work from my house. Every night I have Spain and Fitz on national radio, a weekly podcast, two days of Around the Horn, and Highly Questionable tapes late in the morning. I’ll be co-hosting the espnW Summit next month, so there’s that kind of prep. In between, there are meetings and calls and I’ve been doing virtual yoga and working with a physical therapist via Zoom. I’ve been lucky enough to get to go to some Cubs games because I’m friends with someone who owns one of the rooftops near Wrigley. It’s been 20 people in a space that holds 250. That’s been interesting and different, but better than no games at all. Which parts of your media career came naturally and which were challenging? I never really envisioned doing radio, and local sports radio is not really inclusive. It’s the last bastion of the old boys club. It’s all white dudes, and when you listen, it doesn’t feel like you’re invited or wanted for that job. ESPN 1000 heard me on a WGN show based off of the Chicago Now website and hired me to do sports updates. The more immersed I got into sports broadcasting, the more I learned about details. You don’t say, “Cubs won three to zero;” you say, “the Cubs won three to nothing.” I think TV came pretty quickly. I had done some for Chicago’s Best, but when Continued on page 12
Quick takes with Sarah Spain DISCO DEMOLITION Funny. The visuals from that night to me are so absurd and over the top. I remember talking to (Chicago-born actor) Michael Clarke Duncan from “The Green Mile” who told me that he had stolen Bill Melten’s bat. THE SUPER BOWL SHUFFLE Obsessed. Love it so much. I rewrote a Super BowlShuffle for the Bears when they made the trip again in 2007. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED SWIMSUIT ISSUE Interesting. I have nothing against swimsuit modeling, especially when done as an art. But it always felt a bit absurd to me to have random women who are half naked in a magazine about sports. ESPN The Magazine did a body issue that was about different shapes that athlete’s bodies can take. MIA HAMM Superstar. Badass. Inspiration. BRING IT ON Oh, it’s already been broughten. VENUS AND SERENA Badasses, game-changers, legends, heroes. THROW LIKE A GIRL AD CAMPAIGN Loved it. So much necessary language to be repurposed for good. NAOMI OSAKA Impressive. Wise beyond her years. Just getting started. SPORTS MOVIES THAT MAKE YOU CRY “For Love of the Game,” “The Natural,” “Rudy.” “A League of Their Own” is both great and makes me cry. “Caddyshack” is not a crier, but I love it. — Daniel Patton
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It’s a dog’s life Stroll, eat, play downtown By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer With its soaring skyscrapers and heavy traffic, downtown Chicago may seem better equipped for two-legged visitors than four-legged ones, but Streeterville and New Eastside are home to plenty of businesses, restaurants and parks that welcome canine companions. Miriam Allen, who lives in Streeterville with her husband George and the couple’s dog Barkley, said one of the family’s favorite pet-friendly pastimes is strolling along the Chicago Riverwalk. They often visit the Island Party Hut Tiki Bar and Grill, where Barkley has playdates with his dog friends while the Allens and their fellow “paw-rents” have a drink. “Barkley has several friends around
the neighborhood and George and I have made some good friends through the pups,” Allen said. Several local restaurants and businesses, such as LYFE Kitchen, D4 Irish Pub & Cafe and Foxtrot have accommodated Barkley’s visits by providing water bowls when they stop by, Allen said. “We really love this neighborhood and how dog friendly it is,” Allen said. Allen’s friend Caitlin Finn said her dog Maisie enjoyed spending time at two dog-friendly restaurants in Streeterville—Cupitol and Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company—and was a big fan of the “Pupcups” from the Fido to Go food truck, which parks outside The Drunken Bean on Saturday mornings. The business specializes in gluten- and allergy-free dog treats such as cookies and frozen yogurts.
At Pups Pet Club, providing full-service dog care is more than just a job — it’s a commitment to giving canine clients the best possible quality of life. Founder Dan Rubenstein has a deeply personal stake in this mission. In July of 1999, one of the hottest days in Chicago, a pet care provider disregarded his explicit instructions to leave his St. Bernard, Sydney, in the apartment if the temperature surpassed 80 degrees. Sadly, Sydney was allowed to play outside without water or cool shelter for hours and ultimately died from heat stroke complications. Determined to prevent anyone from experiencing a similar tragedy, Dan launched his first pet services company, All for Doggies, out of his Lakeview apartment. He continued to grow the business and ultimately led to the creation of Pups Pet Club in 2014. To learn more about Pups Pet Club or become a club member, visit PupsPetsClub.com.
“She then likes to play in the dog park nearby, outside Mariano’s,” Finn said. For Streeterville resident Bridget Igo, the outdoor patios at Foxtrot and Kanela Breakfast Club in Streeterville are some of the best pet-friendly places for light food and drinks and brunch, respectively. Both businesses offer outdoor patios for dining. Igo said she encouraged dog owners visiting the neighborhood to stop by the parks and gardens around Navy Pier. “We’d also recommend visiting Olive Park once it re-opens, since they offer wide open spaces that are mostly fenced in,” she said. Blueberry, a potcake dog belonging to Streeterville residents Brandon and Alyse Kay, is a newer member of the community—the couple adopted him in December 2019 during their honeymoon. During
Maisie stops by the Fido to Go food truck for “Pupcups.” Photo courtesy of Caitlin Finn
his first year in Streeterville, Blueberry has gravitated toward the gated dog run at Bennett Park, where he enjoys running and playing without being on a leash, Brandon Kay said. “We also walk over by Navy Pier and the lake, especially since the tourism has been down so significantly,” Kay said.
Too Chain
Laxleasy
Bonded Dogs Need New Forever Home Too Chain is a playful 10-month old who smiles all the time. Laxleasy is a fouryear-old sweetie pie with love in her eyes. The cheerful pair came to the Anti-Cruelty Society at 157 W. Grand Ave. about two months ago. Together, they are up for adoption. “These two would do best placed in a quiet neighborhood and home that does not have
any children under the age of 16 due to their skittish and shy behavior,” the shelter recommends. “Once they are settled in, they will love all over you!” Although their previous owner had to give them up because of a landlord issue, the dogs have remained close friends. “When separated, they each became timid, but once reunited, their personalities are beaming,” said
a representative. “These two LOVE to play! The second they enter our large, open training room, they know it’s time to have fun and will immediately start chasing each other.” To learn more about Too Chain and Laxleasy, or to meet them in person, contact the Anti-Cruelty Society by calling (312) 702-7663 or visiting anticruelty.org.
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Sarah Spain Continued from page 10
The kitchen at Chicago Fire Department’s Engine Co. 13. Photos by Daniel Patton
Firefighters
Continued from page 5 this morning.” The smoker is a waisthigh, oblong apparatus that looks like a giant black metal pill. It is stored in a well-ventilated utility room connected to the main garage. There are three compartments inside the smoker. The top one holds a grill for the meat. The middle section is a longish tube. The bottom is a bowl that stores the source of the smoke— on this occasion, smoldering charcoal briquettes and, once they begin smoking, apple wood chips. While Grabarek seasoned the briskets, Stelmach placed the first load of briquettes into a handheld metal container called a chimney and heated them up on the stove. He chose this method because the group seemed to agree that lighter fluid should not be used with charcoal. “It leaves a bad little aftertaste,” Kinnerk said. After allowing the briskets to marinate, Grabarek put them on the grill and
Battalion Chief Roman Paluch.
kept the temperature of the smoke close to 275 degrees. “USDA minimum temperature is 145 degrees,” he said. “If you want it to the chef ’s temperature, it would be anywhere from 190 to 205.” From there, it took 12 to 15 hours to cook. “Low and slow,” he said. Somewhere around the 12-hour mark, Stelmach made the cornbread casserole. “It’s one and one and one of everything,” he said. “One box of Jiffy (Corn Muffin Mix), one can of whole kernel corn, and one can of cream corn. Then
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chop the peppers real fine and throw them in.” The dish is a hybrid of a Jiffy cornbread casserole recipe that Stelmach had found online and modified by adding Serrano and Jalapeño peppers “to make it spicy.” It is also a departure from the Polish food that he is known for cooking. “You have one person whose specialty is Italian. Another is Mexican. Some people bring in their own recipes,” Kinnerk said. “I learned a lot about cooking at home from recipes that I learned in the firehouse.” When it was time to eat, Stelmach shredded the briskets before serving them. “I tried a little of both,” said Daniel Baumgartner, who was a Chicago police officer before becoming a firefighter 12 years ago. “They were delicious.” Like the preparation, the cleanup was a group project as well. “Everybody tries to play a part and then do something to help get it done faster,” Baumgartner said. “Many hands make light work.”
ESPN gave me a shot, it was far from perfect. The first studio show I did was filling in for Jemele Hill on Numbers Never Lie (April 2014). I didn’t know which camera to look at, but by day two, I was using my finger and saying come closer. I called out the East Coast bias of one of the topics, and it ended up on Deadspin. Naturally, fearlessness, but in a playful way, came out. I did the Second City conservatory in L.A., and that helped. Confidence is so big in this business. It is so easy to have a flub and own it, but if you’re insecure, it’s much more difficult. Your face gets hot. When did you feel confident enough to address topics outside of sports? When people would crack jokes about women or talk about how hot some female athlete is, I would turn on my microphone and talk them down. That was a pivotal point for me. Do I want to be the person that guys like to grab a beer with or do I want to be heard and help other women get in the industry? Equality drives me the most in terms of what I talk about: gender, orientation, race. Those issues come up in games, and sports is the ultimate unifier. How have you evolved since you became a media personality? I feel much more confident in giving my opinion and rocking the boat and not being everyone’s favorite. I’m much more forward about clearing a path for other women. The confidence that you get from being validated by fans is comfortable, but the “imposter syndrome” occurs to the greatest and most accomplished in the industry, no matter how much you feel that you’ve earned your spot. What’s “imposter syndrome?” The constant feeling that you are inadequate and somehow, sometime, you’re going to be figured out. Maya Angelou kept thinking, “they’re going to find me out on this one,” when she wrote her second book.
How has the industry’s treatment of women evolved since you became part of it? The ceiling has gotten much higher, but the basement has remained the same. Women can do play-by-play and call games, but there is still disrespect and harassment and a belief that they’re not there for the right reasons. In a lot of ways, I know it hasn’t “gotten better.” Thankfully, the conversations are beginning to be had, and the “boys-willbe-boys” thing is not really happening any more. What will make it better? It involves a consistent calling out. When people ask, “why does x or y exist in sports,” I always say, “because it exists in society.” What makes Colin Kaepernick a great quarterback? There were plenty who clung to the idea that he just wasn’t good any more, despite all the statistics. But the absurdity of some of the people who ended up getting called in to play became indefensible. He was a starting quarterback in the Super Bowl. Had the NFL handled that situation correctly, years of what we’re dealing with—with the president getting involved, with people saying I don’t watch anymore because of the way they treated him or because of what he did—if they had listened to what he originally said instead of spinning it into the flag or whatever, if they had not been so disingenuous, it would have been over. How can people become more familiar with and excited about female sports? By understanding the stakes, the stats, and the stars. If you learn the stakes— do they always make the playoffs or do they never make the playoffs?—it’s a much bigger deal. The Chicago Red Stars have the longest running playoff streak in women’s professional soccer. That’s exciting. Also, the stats: is it a sixteen-game season or are there 161 games? Then there are the stars. We get into curling when the Olympics come around by learning about the players: they’re an orphan from Alaska, or whatever.
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‘Friends’ exhibit comes to Mag Mile By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer Chicago Friends fans can get an interactive experience based on the hit television series this fall on the Magnificent Mile. The Friends Experience, created by Superfly X, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Warner Bros. Television Group, was originally launched as a celebration of the NBC sitcom’s 25th-year anniversary, according to the Magnificent Mile Association. “The One in Chicago” is set to run from Oct. 1 through Jan. 3 at The Shops at North Bridge, 540 N. Michigan Ave.
The two-story exhibit features a dozen rooms with spaces and items from the show, including Joey and Chandler’s apartment, Central Perk, Rachel and Monica’s purple door and the fountain. Guests can place reservations for a timed visit online at FriendsTheExperience.com. Tickets are $35 and the experience includes a visit to a Friendsthemed store. “We hope The Friends Experience will bring a bit of joy to Chicagoans in these difficult times,” Superfly X founder and CEO Jonathan Mayers said in a news release. “Our team has worked
A recreation of Central Perk is among the sights at The Friends Experience. Photo courtesy of Marc Barry
diligently to ensure that the experience provides fans of the show with a fun yet safe environment while visiting.”
Safety measures such as social distancing and mask requirements will be in place. A portion of proceeds from
ticket sales will benefit My Block, My Hood, My City, a Chicago organization that provides opportunities for underprivileged youth.
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Staying relevant over 70
New Eastside resident’s podcast shines spotlight on older women By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer For New Eastside resident Gail Zelitzky, launching a podcast that celebrates the lives and accomplishments of senior women was the fulfillment of a dream. “I started to think about this a couple of years before, just a germ of an idea,” she said. “And I was able to bring it to fruition and turn it into something that is meaningful for all the women in our community.” Zelitzky, 78, first developed the concept for “Women Over 70: Aging Reimagined” when she turned 70, with the goal of interviewing 70 women who had also reached that milestone to gain an understanding of what was ahead. In the summer of 2019, Zelitzky approached her friend and mentor Catherine Marienau to discuss the idea. The two women, who met when Zelitzky was completing a master’s degree in applied professional studies at DePaul University, come from very different professional backgrounds. Zelitzky is a business coach who previously worked in the liquor industry, while Marienau served as a faculty member at DePaul for three decades. Both women share a passion for helping other women. “For my entire professional career, most of the students that I’ve worked with, 75 to 80 percent, have been women,” said Marienau, 71. “So these are mature women in their 30s, 40s, 50s, sometimes older, who are pursuing their degrees. And I’ve taught women’s issues for 30-some years. Women’s issues, women’s lives have always been a central interest of mine.” In preparation for the project, Zelitzky and Marienau completed an intensive four-week podcast course. Zelitzky’s son’s production team produced the first 10 episodes, and the pair later hired a production assistant and social media driver, Kristine Kruse, to assist them with the remaining episodes.
New Eastside resident Gail Zelitzky (left) and Oak Park resident Catherine Marienau co-host the “Women Over 70: Aging Reimagined” podcast, which focuses on senior women and their experiences. Photos courtesy of Gail Zelitzky
“We’ve really learned a great deal through that whole process,” Marienau said. Initially, Zelitzky and Marienau reached into their personal networks to find women to interview for the podcast, and their pool of potential guests quickly expanded as the project took off. “We started talking, interviewing women that each of us knew, and they’d refer us to other women, and it’s just become a very vibrant community,” Marienau said. “I don’t think we’ll ever run out of women to talk with.” Rebecca Sive, a Chicago-based author who has written several books about women in politics, reached out to Zelitzky and Marienau after a friend of hers, activist Heather Booth, appeared on the podcast. Sive, 70, was the featured guest on episode 48. “I was very impressed with them and the care and attention they give to their work,” she said. “I think they do a lot of advanced preparation in terms of learning about their guests and the Q and A that they want to have, and all of that. I just think they’re doing something important—that’s really the main point here, to
me. I think it’s just critical that women of every generation have a chance to tell their stories, share their work, keep on working together on projects that matter.” Bobbi Wilsyn, 72, a North Side resident and former Columbia College professor and jazz singer, said she enjoyed speaking about her experiences on episode 68 of “Women Over 70.” “It was inspiring, even prior to being a guest on the show, to find out that people were interested and getting together a group of women of a certain age—I prefer to call them ‘women of a certain stage of their lives’—to talk about how they’re still contributing and how aging has affected them, most often positively,” she said. “I was glad to hear that there was such a gathering of like-minded individuals that were women and that they were over 70, and I was included.” Harriett Cholden, 80, a North Side resident and retired teacher who appeared on the podcast’s 69th episode, said she had received a lot of positive feedback about the episode and felt Zelitzky and Marienau were “really superb interviewers.” “They had chosen good questions for me,” she said. “They were things I was well
able to talk to ... they were just delightful to work with. Once this pandemic is over, I’m hoping to have lunch with them.” Cholden said a community for older women was important for the same reasons people need any community—forming a group around a shared experience. “The social community is based on, often-times, a level of education or socio-economic situation,” she said. “Professional communities are based on the profession. It makes perfect sense—if you’re going to have a community of 10-year-olds playing basketball or something, why not have a community of the 70 and older group? Beyond just the podcast, Zelitzky and Marienau have worked to provide resources and opportunities for senior women to meet and connect. Their YouTube series, Advocates for Women Aging, features experts on subjects related to aging, and the two women also have a podcast discussion club and monthly Zoom gatherings for their interested guests and community members. For the podcast’s 70th interview with a woman over 70—which will technically be its 82nd episode—Zelitzky and Marienau plan to host a watch party and find a celebrity guest over 70 to make an appearance. The episode is expected to launch in November. Zelitzky said she hoped her podcast listeners learn that life after 70 holds promise and opportunity—that while they may experience loss and health challenges, they can still remain “vital and vibrant and as active as possible.” “We believe that we’re creating an intergenerational community, and people 50 and over found value in listening to the stories of the women we share,” she said. “They will see best ways, best practices, how to structure their lives as they get older, how to think financially, how to think legally, how to think health-wise. It’s a lot that they can take away.”
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Fall festivities carry on By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer Chicagoland residents have plenty of outdoor opportunities to enjoy this fall, with trips to area farms and orchards, visits to scenic gardens and other seasonal activities available for the picking. HARVEST HAUNTS Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm, 13341 W. 151st St. in Homer Glen, has brought fall-themed fun to the community for more than 40 years. The annual Pumpkin Festival, which returned Sept. 18, offers attractions such as Tractor Town, train rides, and of course, a visit to the patch to pick out the perfect pumpkin. Guests can also sample classic fall treats such as cotton candy, kettle corn and apple cider donuts. Times and prices vary throughout the season. A full calendar of dates and times is available online at pumpkinfarm.com. Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch, 42W813 Reinking Road in Pingree Grove, started out as a roadside stand more than 70 years ago. Today, the farm offers an array of traditional seasonal activities, including wagon rides, choosing pumpkins and picking Honeycrisp apples. The newest attraction at Goebbert’s is a carousel designed to bring back nostalgic childhood memories and help families create new memories together. The farm is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily, and tickets can be purchased online at goebbertspumpkinpatch.com. Heinz Orchard, 1050 Crest Road in Green Oaks, specializes in apple-picking and offers several varieties of apples that become available throughout the fall, depending on picking conditions.
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm offers a variety of pumpkins for visitors to choose from. Photo courtesy of Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm
The family-run orchard notes on its website that a number of new safety precautions are in place, including no sampling fruit, only one picking stick allowed per group and no eating or drinking at the orchard. Since the orchard anticipates a lot of “to-be-determined” dates this fall due to the pandemic and crop size, visitors are encouraged to check the website, heinzorchard. com, for dates and hours. GARDEN EXPLORATIONS For more than four decades, the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe, has been one of the most scenic parts of Chicagoland. Visitors are invited to learn about its colorful plant collection by exploring dozens of gardens and natural areas, including a bonsai collection, fruit and vegetable garden and native plant garden. Guests are required to preregister online for a timed entry and must enter the garden during the time frame listed on their ticket. For visitors seeking an interactive experience, the garden is offering both online and in-person classes
throughout the fall, such as bird walks, walking workouts and watercolor and photography lessons. Upcoming events include the Fall Bulb Festival, Oct. 10-11, which includes an outdoor market, more than 200 bulb varieties, and the 2.3-mile narrated Grand Tram Tours, held daily throughout October. The Model Railroad Garden exhibition will also be open daily through Oct. 11. Additionally, the garden’s annual Halloween celebration, Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, will return Oct. 14-18 and Oct. 21-25 with a few modifications for guest safety. The event features more than 1,000 hand-carved pumpkins, a garden trail and seasonal foods and drinks. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53 in Lisle, offers 1,700 acres of diverse environments to explore, such as Meadow Lake, the Spruce Plot, Lake Marmo and the Hedge Garden. While some indoor facilities, including the Sterling Morton Library, are closed to the public, visitors can still explore the arboretum’s outdoor spaces. Guests must purchase timed-entry tickets to the arboretum in advance. Upcoming in-person events and exhibits include the Scarecrow Trail, which features scarecrows designed by local Scout troops and school groups and runs from 7 a.m. to sunset Oct. 1-Nov. 1, and the Fall Color 5K Run and Walk, a socially distant race scheduled 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 3 or 4. Starting Oct. 8, tickets will go on sale for Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum. The lights exhibit, traditionally a walking event, will instead transform into a driving experience that visitors can enjoy from the comfort of their vehicles.
Resident helps family of ducks thrive in Lake Point Tower By Nuria Mathog Staff Writer For Streeterville resident Anita Balodis, some new feathered friends at the park have become a source of unexpected hope and joy at a challenging time. When COVID-19 shut everything down in the spring, Balodis, a retired family physician who lives in Lake Point Tower, began taking strolls around Skyline Park, an outdoor garden located on the tower’s third floor. The 2.5acre space was designed by architect Alfred Caldwell and features a pond, native plants and a waterfall. “I started walking around the pond, around the park, and I noticed that a lady duck had landed in our pond and was swimming around,” Balodis said. “And then, all of a sudden, I noticed there were two suitors, and they both pursued her.” The female duck chose one of the males as her mate before leaving for two weeks and returning with nine ducklings in tow. One of the ducklings unfortunately disappeared, but Balodis developed a relationship with the others. “It was so cute,” Balodis said. “I started feeding them healthy food, and so they got to know me. Every time they heard me or saw me, they would jump in the pond, swim across and be right next to me.” Five of the ducklings flew away after reaching maturity,
Anita Balodis, a Lake Point Tower resident, feeds her duck friends at Skyline Park. Photo courtesy of Anita Balodis
and the mother duck and one more duckling eventually followed suit. But the last two ducklings, now grown, have remained at the Skyline Park pond and still greet Balodis during her visits to the park. “They jump out of the pond and actually follow me,” she said. For Balodis, having the opportunity to walk around the pond and befriend the ducks has been “a life-saver.” She continues to focus on her health with regular walks around the neighborhood. “Being in nature is healing anyway, and I’ve always recommended all my patients go walking in nature, and nature’s been right here,” she said. “I’m so lucky to live in Lake Point Tower. It’s really saved my life and my mentality.”
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| NEWS BRIEFS | Lawry’s announces upcoming closure, new mansion tours to continue as planned Lawry’s The Prime Rib, a long-term staple of the Magnificent Mile, will close its Chicago location on Dec. 31, with dining and celebrations at the restaurant—including a new series of tours of the McCormick Mansion—continuing as scheduled until the final day. The steakhouse’s Chicago location, 100 E. Ontario St., has been based out of the McCormick Mansion since 1974. The restaurant, which launched in Beverly Hills in 1938, is known for its steaks and dishes such as Spinning Bowl Salad and Yorkshire pudding. In the news release, Ryan Wilson, CEO of Lawry’s, said the decision to close the Chicago location was “extremely difficult.” “It will always hold a special place in our hearts and we will never forget the memories made in the McCormick Mansion,” Wilson said.” We welcome our beloved Chicago community to the restaurant throughout the next few months to celebrate the last 46 years and enjoy the best prime rib in the city before we close and reassess what our presence looks like in the ever-evolving Chicago food scene.” Lawry’s began accepting reservations for tours of the McCormick Mansion, which can accommodate eight to
Lawry’s The Prime Rib will close its Chicago location at the end of the year. Photo courtesy of Lawry’s
10 guests at a time, on Sept. 15. The restaurant’s private guide, Shannon Tauschman, will provide visitors with an exclusive look into the mansion’s history, which includes highlights such as a miniature opera workshop, secret second-level floor rooms and the Kungsholm puppet stage and lair. Tickets are $80 and include cocktails, classic fare from Lawry’s and elevated seasonal bites. Tours last two hours and have start times between 4-7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations must be booked 48 hours in advance and can be made by contacting Tauschman at stauschman@ lawrysonline.com or (312) 787-5000. Tours are not wheelchair-accessible, as guests must ascend and descend several flights of stairs without elevator access.
Chance the Rapper performs at the Ralph Lauren store on Michigan Avenue.
Chance the Rapper films video in Ralph Lauren store A new Chance the Rapper video that was filmed at the Michigan Avenue Ralph Lauren store premiered Sept. 14. The live set played on Ralph Lauren x Bitmoji’s Snapchat channel about a month after Ralph Lauren partnered with Snapchat to create a virtual wardrobe for Bitmoji. Described as “your own personal emoji,” Bitmoji is an application that allows people to create and customize personal avatars of themselves. With the new partnership, Ralph Lauren fans can now “experience the world of Ralph Lauren through (their own) Bitmoji.” To dress their alter egos with the label’s clothing, they can choose from “12 curated looks” and “over 100 ways to style” in a new “Mix and match” feature on Snapchat.
Users can choose from “12 curated looks” and “over 100 ways to style” their Ralph Lauren Bitmojis. Images from Ralph Lauren videos
To complement the video, the app will feature a Chance the Rapper Bitmoji “outfitted in head-to-toe Ralph Lauren!”, according to People.com, which described Chance as “a close friend of the (Ralph Lauren) brand.”
Northwestern infectious disease professor discusses COVID-19 vaccine, flu shots during online symposium Dr. Michael Ison, professor of infectious disease and organ transplantation at Northwestern University, provided updated information on a COVID-19 vaccine timeline and flu shot recommendations last month during a virtual presentation hosted by Skyline Village Chicago, Forward Chicago and the PLOWS Council on Aging. In the presentation, Ison said a vaccine would be issued in a phased approach that would prioritize high-risk individuals in the initial phase, including older adults, people with comorbid and underlying conditions and first responders and healthcare workers. Phase 2 would focus on at-risk groups such as critical risk workers and individuals with a moderately
higher risk of severe illness. Phase 3 would provide the vaccine to young children and adults. In phase 4, all U.S. residents, who have not received the vaccine in previous phases, can choose to be vaccinated. Ison estimated it would take about four months for the at-risk population to be fully vaccinated following the release of a vaccine in late 2020 or early 2021, adding that it would likely take between six to nine months for the entire U.S. population to be vaccinated. Ison encouraged older adults to consider participating in Northwestern’s COVID-19 vaccine trials, which give priority to highrisk populations such as individuals with underlying medical conditions, adults
over 65 and essential workers. Interested participants can sign up online at coronaviruspreventionnetwork.org. He told seniors it was important to continue visiting the doctor if medical treatment is needed, noting that in many cases, delaying medical care can be riskier than coming into the hospital. “I have been coming to the hospital every day—I feel incredibly safe here in the healthcare setting,” he said. Ison also urged members of the public to get a flu shot this fall, noting health officials currently recommend all individuals six months and older receive the vaccine. In addition to preventing cases of the flu, the flu shot provides a reduced risk
of severe illness and hospitalization and death, as well as a reduction in cardiovascular outcomes for individuals in cardiac patients, he said. Ison recommended two specific vaccine options for seniors: the high dose quadravalent influenza vaccine and adjuvanted quadravalent influenza vaccine. “The efficacy in terms of antibody response is similar between the two, so either one, I think, for older adults, would be fine,” he said. “There’s just a little bit more data with the high-dose vaccine in terms of added benefit in preventing hospitalization and death compared to the adjuvanted vaccine. That’s why I personally prefer the high dose.”
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Chicago theaters still waiting in the wings Area actors face challenge of being in the industry during pandemic By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer Curtains have closed and stages have gone dark but Chicago’s theater scene remains committed to survival by fighting to adapt to the harsh realities of the pandemic. “Theater was the first to close and will be the last to open,” said Cody Estle, artistic director at Chicago’s Raven Theater. “It’s a tough position to be in.” Chicago theater actors have been unable to rehearse or perform since March. Revenue continues to dwindle and funding is scarce, and for many neighborhood theaters, the future remains uncertain. “We can’t go back to work until it’s safe for people to gather in groups,” Estle said. “And theaters can’t afford to operate at limited capacity. It’s not financially viable.” Trap Door Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St., has moved to produce online content. “Trap has been great with doing virtual pieces,” said Keith Surney, an actor and company member at Trap Door. “We released ‘Alas!’ online and I am part of the International Voices Project, which is usually readings that are done live. But this year, each actor recorded themselves using monologue, and the director will piece them together.”
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Chicago actor Tiffany Bedwell. Photo courtesy of Tiffany Bedwell
Trap Door Theatre actor Keith Surney. Photo courtesy of Keith Surney.
Trap Door’s managing producer Gary Damico said they are preparing to show videos of prior performances online as well. “We’ll need to keep coming up with new ways to produce earned income.” Surney wants theaters to rethink how they present their work and shows. One avenue is embracing the digital world. “So much of the structure of theater is built on the live performance—the staging, the lighting, even the kind of plays we perform,” he said. “I hope that new playwrights and directors think about ways in which theater can be reimagined if you don’t have an audience or a physical stage.” But Estle believes that you can’t recreate what happens in live theater. “Nothing is more exciting than watching a show on a live stage,” he said. “And moving shows online defeats the purpose.” Chicago actor Tiffany Bedwell agrees.
“By its nature, theater is communal,” she said. “Stage actors feed off each other to know how to react next, and performances are different each night as a result. Audiences impact the way a performance unfolds.” Bedwell has been doing voiceover radio commercials from home since the start of the pandemic. Regardless of their platforms, theater companies need financial support. “Support your local neighborhood theaters,” Estle said. “No amount of money is too small to donate.” “If they offer online performances, pay for an e-ticket and watch it,” Bedwell added. “If they don’t, consider making a donation in the amount of what you would have spent seeing their productions this year.” Chicago actors are looking forward to a return to the live stage. “When we are back for a play, go see it,” Estle said.
Doorperson of the Month Renee Moore, the Buckingham, 360 E. Randolph St. By Daniel Patton Staff Writer Renee Moore dedicated her career to helping others when she left nursing school and launched her own caregiving business nearly two decades ago. “I made it all the way to clinicals (the hands-on phase of the nursing program), but I would come home crying because there wasn’t enough time for patients,” she recalled. “It was like being in an administrative job instead of a caring job.” The move set her on a professional journey that included comforting people with progressive dementia, consulting families of the terminally ill, and once caring for a man who decorated his home with Nazi memorabilia. “He was sweet as pie to me,” she said. In January, the journey led to The Buckingham, 360 E. Randolph St., where she became a member of the door staff. Moore brings a unique personal philosophy to work every day. “You don’t know what people are going through in life — be a bright spot.” She developed this optimistic resilience while growing up as the youngest of 13 children in East Garfield Park. When Renee was 6 years old, her mother died. Her father, a truck driver who co-founded and operated his own produce company, told
The Buckingham’s Renee Moore is Doorperson of the Month. Photo by Daniel Patton
her, “You’re the last part of your mom, so I have to take special care of you.” He kept that promise. “I remember one Christmas, he had to cover three shifts for three weeks because people had called in sick,” Moore said. “But he still made it home to make breakfast and lunch and dinner for us.” When Renee started her caregiving business, her father became her first customer. She eventually contracted dozens of clients, including a contact at 360 E. Randolph who encouraged her to apply for the doorperson position. “They told me that you have to be a people pleaser during the interview,” she said. When she’s not working, Renee keeps busy with her husband and four children. Their oldest is currently scouting colleges. Their eighth-grade twin sons are “like night and day.” One “wants to participate in everything,” while
the other is “so smart it’s scary.” Their youngest son is a ham who “keeps us on our toes.” On Nov. 8, Renee will be running the Allstate Hot Chocolate Virtual 15k/5k with one of the twins. It will be her third year competing in the event. The previous outings happened on days when it was so cold that they were “freezing their butts off.” The event is an official charity for the St. Jude Children’s Hospital. “I want my kids to understand that it’s important to give, not just to get a prize and get your name in the paper,” she said. “Those are my babies. I love them more than life itself, and I’d go to the ends of the earth for them.” 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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| NEWS BREAK |
When the streets went silent Street performers struggle through protests, pandemic
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ere the streets of Chicago quiet during the summer because there were no street performers? Or were there no street performers because the streets were so quiet? We might want to bring in the chicken and the egg for that Jon Cohn COMMUNITY discussion. CONTRIBUTOR One thing was certain: It was a very tough time, indeed, for Chicago’s street musicians who add so much to the flavor and sounds of our usually-busy downtown. So, how did they get by after being silenced first by the virus and then by the protesting and looting that kept many businesses closed and streets nearly deserted? Well, variety, they say, is the spice of life, and that is exactly how they made do. Ronald Christian and “M” (that’s his legal name), have been performing in the city since 1986, an amazing threeand-a-half decade run. The intersection of Randolph Street and Michigan Avenue is their usual spot. They were hit hard by the silenced streets. “This shutdown was one of the worst I’ve seen,” M said. “We lost maybe 80% of the normal crowd out here. I survived by working my construction job, and also, we do play in a bigger band called HarmonE. But even that was slow because so many corporate events were canceled.” Christian had a different way of coping with the time off. “I stayed home and wrote some new music,” he said. Andrew David stretches his vocal chords out by singing at various spots on Michigan Avenue in Streeterville, and this is his third year doing so. “It is a gift from God to be able to do this,” he said. “But
Jumble
TESLONEK MEETYCRE NIBOLG
Derrick Tate often plays near the Wrigley Building.
Jonathan Howell performs in the city.
this summer was rough. Downtown was just about off limits, so I tried the South Loop, Lincoln Park and West Loop and was able to make some money in those locations.” Derrick Tate stations himself regularly at the Wrigley Building Plaza on Michigan Avenue and entertains both with his voice and an always trusty saxophone. “I definitely missed the energy of all the people,” he said. “It was hard to keep up the enthusiasm when so few people were around, but I get by fine because my regular gig is teaching music at Prosser High School.” Long time street performer and singer extraordinaire Jonathan Howell, often seen at the Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive intersection, may have said it best, “This is what I love to do, so it really hurts not being able to come out and play.” “I did go to O’Hare Airport and played some and that worked out OK, but mainly I just stayed home and chilled,” Howell added. “I wanted to stay safe and not catch anything bad.”
Ronald Christian and M have been performing in Chicago since 1986. Photos by Jon Cohn
Like so many others, it has been a tough summer for street performers and the loss of revenue was clearly felt by all. They are a resilient lot and with everything we have been through so far, somehow they were able to continue on and most importantly—keep the music going. Jon Cohn is a New Eastside resident.
Where am I? ATMNOPH UCDORALN CTPRY
A large rounded orange-yellow fruit with a thick rind, edible flesh. Previous puzzle answer: The gathering of a ripened crop. HARVEST
Do you know where this is?
If you think you know, email us at info@chicagostarmedia.com. Answers to September Where am I? New Eastside: North entrance to the Aon Center. Streeterville: South corner of Equitable Plaza.
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| EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@chicagostarmedia.com
October
Shedd Aquarium 12 free days in October Shedd Aquarium will have 12 free days in October for Illinois residents. Free days begin Oct. 5. with every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday free through the end of the month. Reservations are requried through their website. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr.(312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org
Through November
Chicago’s Haunted Segway Tour Explore the sites and streets of downtown Chicago while learning about Al Capone’s haunted yacht, the Iroquois Theatre fire, the Fort Dearborn Massacre, and more. 6:15-8:15 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, $60, 300 E. Monroe St., (312) 5525100, chicagosegways.com/tour/ chicago-haunted-tour
Oct. 7
Blood Drive The Mid-America Club partners with the American Red Cross for a blood drive. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph Drive, 80th Floor, (312) 8611100, redcrossblood.org/give For information, contact the club at (312) 861-1100 or email melissa.czyz@clubcorp.com
documentaries, short films, virtual events, and one-of-a-kind Drive-In experiences. Various times and prices, mostly online except for eight screenings at the ChiTown Movies Drive-In Theater, 2343 S. Throop St., (312) 6830121, chicagofilmfestival.com/festival
Oct. 22
18th Police District Conversation The first of two community input meetings to create the 18th District Strategic Plan, hosted on Zoom by the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS). 6-9 p.m, free, online, (312) 742-5778, eventbrite.com. To attend via phone, (312) 626-6799.
Mid-America Club prospective members The MAC invites Lakeshore East Residents to learn about membership in its “Community in the Sky.” Business-casual attire. Reservations required. 5:30-7 p.m., Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph Drive, 80th Floor, (312) 8611100. RSVP to membership director at (312) 856-9484 or email melissa.czyz@ clubcorp.com.
Oct. 14-25
Oct. 24
Oct. 8
Chicago International Film Festival Select from more than 100 feature films,
Dia de los Muertos Brunch The annual Brunch Club fundraiser
will benefit the Covenant House, a Chicago nonprofit that provides housing and supportive services to youth facing homelessness, and ClubCorp’s Employee Partner Foundation. It will include live entertainment, food and cocktails from the culinary team, a silent auction, and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $50, (312) 861-1100, 200 E. Randolph St., 80th floor, macbrunchclub.golfgenius.com. Kids Halloween Party at Yacht Club Arts and crafts, luminary contest, ghoulish guest visitors, photobooth, tricks and treats, and Food and drinks include mummy dogs, evil apples, gravestown brownies, spooky cocktails, scary mocktails and fall beers. Open to members and guests of members, RSVP required.1-3 p.m., (312) 938-3625, 111 N. Lake Shore Drive, colyc.org.
Community photos Send photos and captions of things going on in the neighborhood to info@chicagostarmedia.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.
“This is my view, over 46 stories in the clouds. I was already at work at my desk at 8 a.m. in Chicago. Window washers are brave!” By Lily Moy, self-described Mom and Tech Executive
Looking West on Lake Street from Stetson at Equinox Sunset. By Michael Belovesick
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