Chicago Star Made in Chicago September 2021

Candid Candace cookin’ with Saigon Sisters’ Mary Aregoni

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Iconic Chicago brand, Eli’s Cheesecake Company, made its public debut in 1980 at the first Taste of Chicago and is the event’s only original vendor. Photo by Candid Candace Jordan

Iconic brands, inventions that began in the Windy City PAGE 12

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West(312) Loop NEWS 690-3092 PublisherEastside and Editor New NEWS Elaine Hyde elainehyde@chicagostarmedia.com Streeterville NEWS Director of Brand Development Jay Kopp West Loop NEWS jaykopp@chicagostarmedia.com Associate Editor Nuria Mathog Contributing Editor Candace Jordan Staff Writer Angela Gagnon Copy Editors Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design Bob Oswald Community Contributors Jon Cohn Jacqueline Davis Bridget McGuire

Subscriptions info@chicagostarmedia.com Advertising Contact Jay Kopp jaykopp@chicagostarmedia.com Chicago Star is a monthly paper that uses community writers and contributors. The views expressed by community contributors are their own. Chicago Star Media does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. Chicago Star Media is independently owned and operated.

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So many reasons to make us Chicago proud as we move into fall For more than 90 years, the iconic Original Rainbow Cone has lifted our spirits and defined the meaning of summer. From a small shack on the city’s South Side to multiple locations, including Navy Pier, this beloved Chicago institution, along with so many others, truly make us Chicago proud.

As friends return from long-awaited vacations, we prepare for autumn with new routines, mask mandates and back-toschool. As a city, we have much to be thankful for, including our rich history which spawned generations of big thinkers and doers. Check out our “Made in Chicago” article by contributing editor Candace Jordan and see the many reasons we have to be proud of this great city.

And, if you’re looking for places to go and things to do, we have our popular bulletin and events pages to keep you busy.

Urbanspace, a new food hall, is coming to Chicago, the Pitchfork Music Festival is returning and the River North Design District’s Gallery Walk will once again spotlight creativity in this neighborhood.

The nonprofit community has come back with exciting new and re-imagined events too. Eversight Illinois will support the gift of sight at its Fantasea fundraiser; the Harold Washington Literary Award Gala returns and will kick-off Lit Fest; the Navy Seal Foundation will host “Evening of Tribute”, a patriotic salute to our armed forces and their families; the Chicago Lighthouse is back with its fashionable fundraiser FLAIR; the Apparel Industry Board will host REV Up! to showcase our local designers; the Illinois Holocaust Museum will continue to encourage people to be UP-standers and combat hatred at its SOIREE event; Chicago Gourmet will again tempt our taste-buds and the Chicago International Film Festival returns with a brand new event, “Lights, Camera, Chicago.” Watch for our November issue which will be dedicated to our nonprofits as well as celebrate this year’s Giving Tuesday Nov. 30. (Find out how you can highlight your favorites at info@chicagostarmedia.com) As you can see, there’s a lot here to make us all Chicago Proud.

We believe people want to believe in the power of good and we are a news source that promises to deliver just that. Stay with us, join us...WE want to make you proud too.

Sincerely, The Team at Chicago Star

Candace Jordan, Chicago Star contributing editor, and Jay Kopp, director of brand development, share an Original Rainbow Cone at Navy Pier.

BOARD MEMBERS Manolis Alpogianis, America’s Dog & Burger Franchise Systems President Leslie Hindman, Founder Hindman Auctions Paul Iacono, Chicago Dowel Co. Israel Idonije, Founder of iF Charities Tom Kehoe, Kehoe Designs Michael Kutza, Founder Chicago International Film Festival Sherren Leigh, Founder Today’s Chicago Woman

Sargent M. McCormick, International Harvester Alexander Pissios, President Cinespace Chicago Film Studios and Cinecares Foundation Amanda Puck, Director Strategic Brand Development, Mariano’s Maureen and Marc Schulman, President Eli’s Cheesecake Company

Chef Art Smith, Chef/Author/ Co-founder Common Threads Bonnie Spurlock, Founder Associated Publications Howard Tullman, G2T3V Phil Vettel, Former Chicago Tribune Food Critic Dionne Williams, Owner/Founder of D. Williams PR Group Robert Zentner, Philanthropist

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| THE BULLETIN |

A round up of Chicago's top stories

Oct. 15 will be ineligible to work until they are fully vaccinated and provide confirmation of vaccination to CPS. This mandate applies to all school-based teachers and staff, central office and network employees, regular vendors and Board of Education workers at Chicago Public Schools.

Urbanspace, NYC’s food hall pioneer, to expand to Chicago After being on hold for more than a year due to the pandemic, Urbanspace, the New York City food hall pioneer, will open its 12,000-square foot Loop location on the ground floor of the 15 W. Washington Building at Washington and State in mid-September. The hall had been scheduled to open in April of 2020 just one month after the pandemic shutdown. Most of the vendors on board then will be part of the 2021 opening. The 14,000-square-foot food hall in Catalog at Willis Tower will open in the beginning of 2022. Vendors include Bhoomi, Bianca’s BBQ, Budlong, Edzo’s, Footman Hospitality’s Beer Stall, Happy Lobster and much more. Visit urbanspacenyc.com/chi for more information.

Pitchfork Music Fest returns Chicago’s Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., will host this year’s Pitchfork Music Festival from Sept. 9-12 on the city’s Near West Side. This event, held annually since 2006, is a celebration of multiple styles of music, ranging from hardcore punk to smooth jazz. Attendees can listen to their favorite artists, be introduced to new sounds and socialize with thousands of like-minded music lovers. There will also be shopping kiosks, dining areas and art displays set up during this three-day festival. Learn more at pitchforkmusicfestival.com.

Registration open for park district fall programming Fall programming for participating Chicago Park District parks, including Lake Shore Park in Streeterville, is now available for viewing online and includes programs themed around arts and crafts, sports, conditioning and other activities. For a full list of programs, and to register online, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Printers Row Lit Fest returns to South Loop

Works by artist Lonney White will be included in the River North Design District’s Gallery Walk on Friday, Sept. 10. Courtesy of RNDD

River North gallery walk supports local artists The 6th annual River North Design District Gallery Walk, presented by Daniel Kinkade Fine Art, is set for 5-9 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 10. Meet and greet Chicago’s top interior designers, international artists, galleries and design showrooms as they create vignettes to serve as backdrops.

The walk includes 20 stops in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.A portion of ticket sales will support Dig With Dignity, a nonprofit that elevates the lives of those transitioning from homelessness. Visit rivernorthdesigndistrict.com.

Green City Market brings Chef BBQ back More than 50 restaurants and chefs, including Bazaar Meats, Goose Island, Longman & Eagle and Big Jones, will grill up delicious meats and produce from Green City Market vendors during the return of its premiere Chef BBQ event Thursday, Sept. 9, in Lincoln Park. Chicago’s top restaurants, brewers, winemakers, and mixologists will provide tasting portions of locally-inspired dishes and craft beverages highlighting ingredients from Green City Market’s local,

sustainable farmers. The event, now in its 20th year, is a fundraiser for Green City Market, a nonprofit that supports local farmers, community education and access to sustainably-produced food. For tickets and details, visit greencitymarket.org.

The 36th annual Printers Row Lit Fest will return (rain or shine) Sept. 11-12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Dearborn Street and Polk in the South Loop. Headlining the festival will be National Book Award winner Ta-Nehisi Coates (“The Water Dancer,” Between the World and Me,” “The Beautiful Struggle”) who will be honored the night before the fest, Sept. 10, at a kick-off gala (thenspb.org/) as this year’s Harold Washington Literary Award winner.

The festival is presented by the Near South Planning Board, a not-for-profit community based organization serving businesses, institutions and property owners since 1946. For information, visit printersrowlitfest.org.

Autumn Open House at The Mid-America Club The Mid-America Club invites New Eastside Residents to learn about membership and its “Community in the Sky” at the next complimentary Open House event on Thursday, Sept. 23, 6-7:30 p.m. Expand your local network, make valuable connections and enjoy amazing views. Reservations are required and space is limited.

RSVP to Membership Director at (312) 856-9484 or email melissa.czyz@clubcorp. com. Business-casual attire. Located on the 80th Floor of the Aon Center.

Vaccine required for CPS staff Chicago Public Schools is requiring its employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19 unless they qualify for a medical or religious exemption. Employees without an approved medical or religious exemption who are not fully vaccinated by

Boat rides from Chicago Electric Boat Tours.

Enjoy eco-friendly cruise on a Donut Boat Environmentally-minded sightseers can now cruise the Chicago River in an environmentally-friendly zero-emissions donut boat. Chicago Electric Boats’ ring-shaped water cruiser allows up to six passengers, all seated around a circular table in the middle that can hold snacks, beverages or other provisions necessary for this unique voyage.

The boat tours will run through October and include the company’s fleet of boats: 18-foot Duffy Boat, Pontoon Boat, 22-foot Luxury Duffy Boat, and a Rockwell Duffy Boat. Visit chicagoelectricboats.com for more information.

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SEPTEMBER 2021 / 5

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

Sept. 8

Giving Back September

Evening on Division Designed to support local businesses, the first-ever Evening on Division event will be hosted by Gold Coast Neighbors Association and sponsored by Janice Corley of ReMax, Lodge Management Group, Buth McGuire’s, Division Street Merchants, Hopsmith, the Lodge and She-nannigans. The party will feature a wide variety of food, drinks, music and camaraderie. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Division Street, between State and Dearborn streets, goldcoastneighbors.org

Sept. 11

Vegandale Food & Drink Festival Enjoy music and vegan food from vendors around the country. This event is free for children 12 and under accompanied by an adult ticket holder.

Tickets grant entry to the event; food and drinks are sold separately. 11 a.m.7 p.m. Grant Park, 5491 S. Lake Shore Drive, vegandalefest.com

Sept. 18-19

Art Fest Michigan Avenue This fine art festival takes place on Michigan Avenue at the base of the Chicago Tribune building. Enjoy local food and live music, see live art demos and shop for paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, sculptures and more. Time slots can be reserved at eventbrite.com. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 18, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19, ambdurproductions.com

Sept. 19

MAD for Chicago This free event, created through a partnership with Shop Small Chicago, invites visitors to shop for art, jewelry, apparel and other items from local artisans along Sheraton Grand Chicago’s riverfront pathway. In the case of bad weather, the market will move indoors. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sheraton Grand Chicago, 301 E. North Water St.

Eversight Illinois’ Gift of Sight Masquerade Eversight Illinois’ FANTASEA Mystery Masquerade will raise funds to help restore sight and prevent blindness at its annual event at the Peninsula Chicago (108 E. Superior) on Wed., Sept. 8. Honorees are Justine Fedak and Dr. Parag Majmudar. eversightvision.org

Lights, Camera, Chicago!

Local chefs offer their best burgers for the Hamburger Hop.

Sept. 23

Chicago Gourmet’s Hamburger Hop One of the most popular events at Chicago Gourmet is the Hamburger Hop, where an array of local chefs will offer their best burgers for dine-in, delivery and carry out during the month of September. This year’s contestants include Bar Sótano, BLVD Steakhouse, Eris Brewey, Funkenhausen, Siena Tavern and more. Find your favorite, cast your vote, then join the in-person Hamburger Hop event on the Harris Theatre rooftop, hosted by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard. Enjoy burger tastings alongside beer and wine, and find out which local burger reigns supreme. Harris Theater Rooftop, 205 E. Randolph St., eventbrite.com

Sept. 25

Midnight Circus in the Parks Enjoy 45 minutes of open-air circus fun. Midnight Circus in the Parks brings a safe, spectacular series of open-air performances to parks all across Chicago, featuring acrobats, aerialists, physical performers and musicians. Tickets are free with a suggested donation and must be reserved online in order to guarantee a seat.

Guests can purchase tickets starting 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 20. 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m, Lake Shore Park, 808 N. Lake Shore Drive, midnightcircus.net

Sept. 30

Fun Run at Mariano’s Lakeshore East with Kayla Jeter This 5K around downtown Chicago starts at the Lakeshore East Mariano’s and finishes back at the store with healthy refreshments for racers. 6:30 p.m., Mariano’s Lakeshore East, 333 E. Benton Place, eventbrite.com

September Races Chi Town Half Marathon 13.1, 10K, virtual option, 7 a.m., Saturday, Sept.

11, Montrose Harbor 9/11 Heroes Run Chicago 5K/1 mile run, 9 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 11, Lincoln Park PAWS Chicago 5K, 7:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 18, Montrose Harbor Ready to Run 20 Miler, 6:30 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 1, Montrose Wilson Track Strides for Peace Race Against Gun Violence 8K, 5K, kids run, 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 23, Grant Park Austin Power 5K/kids run, 7 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 25, Chicago and Mayfield avenues Brain Up 5K/kids run, 9 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 25, Maggie Daley Park Miles for Melanoma Chicago 5K, 9 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 25, Grant Park Chicago Half Marathon 13.1/5K, 7 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 26, Jackson Park

The Chicago International Film Festival will host a new fundraiser, “Lights, Camera, Chicago” at Bridge410 (410 N. Paulina) on Monday, Sept. 13. Guests will enjoy “tastes of Chicago,” live music, silent auctions and films to benefit year-round programs of the Festival. chicagofilmfestival.com

Navy SEAL Foundation’s ‘Midwest Evening of Tribute’ The Navy SEAL Foundation will host its Midwest Evening of Tribute on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the Hilton Chicago (198 E. Delaware). This patriotic salute will help the Foundation provide programs designed to reduce the stressors associated with life in Naval Special Warfare to both the warfare operators and their families. navysealfoundation.org

Chicago Lighthouse’s FLAIR The Chicago Lighthouse’s annual “FLAIR: Fun. Fashion. Philanthropy” fundraiser will be held at the Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, on Friday, Oct. 1. The luncheon event, co-chaired by Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine, will honor Susan Griffiths Gohl. The Lighthouse provides vision rehabilitation services, education, employment opportunities and assistive technology for people of all ages. chicagolighthouse.org

Rev UP! Chicago:Moving Fashion Forward The Apparel Industry Board will celebrate Chicago’s community of designers and sewers at the annual REV UP! Chicago event, a hybrid affair with an in-person VIP viewing party on Thursday, Oct. 21 at Perillo Bentley Gold Coast, 834 N. Rush St. aibi.com

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Chicago dairy company discovers secret for richest milk, butter

By Nuria Mathog Zeal Grass Milk Creamery’s growth and success are a testament to the power of perseverance.

The Chicago-based craft milk company was set to roll out its products in Chicago and New York as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. But Zeal President Jason Henshaw had faith in the quality of his products and knew they would sell. So, he came up with a plan.

“I bought a fridge van, and at 5 a.m. I would head out to Bensenville and unload the semi-trailer with a pallet of milk and put it in the back of the milk van, and they’d deliver it,” Henshaw said. “And then every other day I would be in the store merchandising and making sure the milk was on the shelf.”

His determination and drive paid off.

Zeal milk and butter are sold in high-end grocery stores throughout Illinois, New York, Texas, Wisconsin and Missouri. Nearly 150 stores in the Chicago area offer Zeal products, including Cermak Fresh Market, Pete’s Fresh Market and Torres Fresh Market locations, as well as the recently-opened Dom’s Kitchen & Market in Lincoln Park.

Founded in 2018, Zeal produces whole, chocolate and lactose-free milk and two types of butter, 87 percent slightly salted and 87 percent unsalted, all sourced from a single southwest Missouri farm along historic Route 66.

The company’s name is a nod to the New Zealand farming community that inspired its signature practices, such as pastoral farming, a grass-fed diet, paddocks and sharemilking, a model in which young farmers and landowners partner

TM

Free-range cows graze at Zeal Grass Milk Creamery’s farm, located in southwest Missouri. Courtesy of Zeal Grass Milk Creamery

to keep the farm operating and split the profits. Zeal’s cows are entirely free-range, meaning they spend all of their time outside and are never placed in a barn.

Zeal’s dairy products start with the grass, a variety called perennial ryegrass that is particularly rich in nutrients, Henshaw said.

“There’s a deepness of beta carotene, which comes through naturally from the grass,” he said. “So, when you see the milk, it has a golden tinge to it, and it really, really

highlights it when it comes to the butter.”

For Henshaw, growing Zeal into the company it is today has been a highly rewarding and meaningful experience.

“I’m really proud that I’ve had the opportunity to come and bring a concept that’s been around for 15 years, to take a single farm, get it into a bottle and build a brand—to bring American parents and people like us the best possible dairy product, because it’s in your backyard,” he said.

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Candid Candace CITY SEEN

The Service Club of Chicago’s fashionable fundraiser Co-chairs Tracey DiBuono, Sharyl Mackey and Jean Antoniou with a leading sponsor Tom Kehoe.

Ryan and Jessa Baker with twins Grace and Rose.

The Cause: The Service Club of Chicago hosted its annual “Day on the Terrace” fashion show fundraiser, this year themed “Here Comes the Sun,” at The Geraghty. Co-chaired by Jean Antoniou, Tracey DiBuono and Sharyl Mackey, the event raised nearly $200,000 to support the SC’s Philanthropic Grant Program.

The Setting: Nearly 300 guests enjoyed a runway show featuring a “first look” at fall fashion from some of Chicago’s top retailers, designers and boutiques. Celebrities and member models showcased the designs on the catwalk.

The Scene: Besides an exciting 45-minute show, the afternoon included lunch (from J&L Catering), a silent auction, raffle prizes and a colorful after-party on premises produced by the SC Auxiliary Board, complete with flip-flops and pool toys.

The event was produced by Black Oak Technical Productions, Kehoe Designs and The Geraghty with fashion show production by ZZAZZ. Photos by John Reilly Photography

Kathy Piccone and Sheree Valukas.

Julia Jacobs, Service Club President Sherrill Bodine and Bethany Florek.

Paula Borg and Myra Reilly.

Megan Pelino, Andrea Antoniou and Carol Pelino.

Simona Garcia and Cristina Montgomery.

Israel Idonije wearing Peter Millar.

Liz Teasley wearing Sylwia Designs.

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Chicago Pro

A city of doers, thinkers and histo

C

hicago is not only a city of big shoulders bu ers and doers as well. An astounding numb businesses and inventions all had their start City. From its early beginnings, the city has been bu starting with the arrival of French explorers, missio in the late 17th century and through to the World W Migration began. Even the Great Chicago Fire in 18 Candace Jordan enthusiasm for creativity as the city became the dom Contributing editor ter for manufacturing, commerce and culture. Lege Marshall Field’s, Eli’s Cheesecake, Bay’s English Muffins, Land’s End, M Jack had their start here. Let’s take a look at a few of the many ideas bo Chicago Proud. Some will definitely surprise you.

“Grandpa Joe” Sapp was just a kid when he discovered his love for ice cream. As an orphan on an Ohio work farm, Joe never lived a life of luxury but that never stopped him from scraping his pennies together for a scoop of ice cream now and again. Many years later, he was able to make his dream come true. While working as a mechanic for Buick, he opened his own ice cream stand at 92nd Street and Western Avenue in Chicago and cobbled together a collection of flavors that suited his taste buds and the Rainbow Cone was born. For 95 years now, ice cream lovers have flocked to the ORIGINAL RAINBOW CONE which consists of five distinct flavors: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio and orange sherbet. Today, this much coveted treat can be savored at the original location (9233 S. Western Ave.), at Navy Pier, via an ice cream truck and, most recently, through a new collaboration with Buona Beef, in Darien, Il. at 7417 S. Cass Ave. TWINKIES, the spongy yellow cake snack, was created by a baker for the Continental Baking Company in Schiller Park in 1930. James Dewar came across a billboard for Twinkle Toe Shoes and the name stuck for his sweet treat.

The first Twinkies were filled with banana cream.

In 1980, Twinkies sold at about 1 billion a year.

THE MORTON SALT COMPANY was created here in 1848 as a small sales agency (E. I Wheeler) which was later incorporated as the Morton Salt Company and named after the founder Joy Morton. The purchase coincided with the post-Civil War expansion of the city’s meatpacking industry, which preserved excess meat by packing it in salt. Another major benefit for Morton was a discovery of salt deposits in nearby Michigan, allowing the company to produce its own supply.

The Morton Arboretum was dedicated by Morton’s son in honor of his father.

Gum is not a new product— in fact, it’s been around for thousands of years—but the multi-flavored varieties like Juicy Fruit Gum that we know today can be traced to William Wrigley, Jr. who established the WM. WRIGLEY JR. COMPANY in Chicago in 1891. He was originally a soap and baking powder salesman, and to move products he would include a pack of chewing gum with every sale. This was so popular that he decided to focus solely on gum and went on to create a variety of flavors including Spearmint, Juicy Fruit and Doublemint gums.

BROWNIES, believe it or not, are also a Chicago invention that can be attributed to Bertha Palmer, wife of millionaire hotelier Potter Palmer. In 1893, Bertha was searching for a treat to serve at the World’s Fair that was smaller than a cake but still had cake-like qualities to make it suitable for lunch boxes. It first appeared in a catalog in 1898, made with semi-sweet chocolate, crushed walnuts and topped with apricot glaze.

Bertha Palmer

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oud

Other made-in-Chicago surprises

ory makers

ut a city of big thinkber of iconic products, t right here in the Windy uilt by hardy, clever stock onaries and fur traders War I era when the Great 871 couldn’t dampen the minant Midwestern cenendary companies such as Morton Salt and Cracker orn here that make us

Eli M. Schulman

CRACKER JACK was one of the many invenions introduced at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

German immigrant Frederick William Rueckheim and his brother debuted their candied popcorn mixed with peanuts at the expo and it was an nstant hit. In 1912, the company started selling the product with small prizes nside the boxes. Today, he brand is owned by Frito Lay.

SEPTEMBER 2021 / 13

GARRETT’S POPCORN, with its addictive selections of gourmet popcorn mixed with nuts, was first created in Chicago in 1949 by a female entrepreneur who developed the now famous recipes in her family kitchen. Today, it has shops in nine countries, corporate offices in Chicago, Singapore and Tokyo and an online store. The first store was at 10 West Madison.

ELI’S CHEESECAKE made its public debut at the first Taste of Chicago in 1980. It was created by celebrity restaurateur Eli M. Schulman at his iconic Eli’s the Place for Steak restaurant, which opened in 1966. He wanted to make cheesecake his signature dessert at the restaurant so he came up with a rich and creamy recipe, instantly identifiable to its many fans. The company is now run by his son Marc Schulman, who is president.

The Pullman neighborhood was home to JAY’S FOOD INC., which started there in 1927.

Founded by Leonard Japp, the company was originally named Mrs. Japp’s Chips, but was changed to Jay’s in 1941 due to a negative connotation toward the word Jap following anti-Japanese sentiment during WWII. The factory was located on 99th Street and created Jay’s Potato Chips as well as O-Ke-Doke popcorn. The brand is still preserved by the Snyder Lance company, which purchased the brand in 2007.

BAY’S ENGLISH MUFFINS were created at a bakery in Chicago’s Loop in 1934. George Bay used a recipe his English grandmother brought to the U.S. in the 1800s. Sold by the dozen in brown paper bags, the muffins were hand-delivered to restaurants, hotels and private clubs.

RADIO FLYER, that iconic red children’s wagon, was born in a one-room workshop on Chicago’s West Side. Antonio Pasin, an Italian immigrant, was a cabinet maker who loved to tinker. He named his first wooden wagon “Liberty Coaster” in honor of the statue that welcomed him to America. In 1917, the Radio Flyer Company was founded.

THE FERRIS WHEEL, by George Ferris, debuted at the 1893 Columbian Exposition.

MARSHALL FIELD’S was founded in 1852, and was acquired

by Macy’s in 2006.

WALGREEN’S began in 1901 as a small food store on the corner of Bowen and Cottage Grove by Charles R. Walgreen.

FARM SILOS were first built in 1873 by Fred Hatch of McHenry County, who knew?

DEEP DISH PIZZA was developed by Ike Sewell at his Pizzeria Uno restaurant in Chicago in 1943.

THE ZIPPER, this product also debuted at the World’s Fair, created by Chicagoan Whitcomb L. Judson, and introduced as a “clasp locker.”

THE VACUUM CLEANER Ike Sewell was born in the basement of Chicago inventor Ive W. McGaffey in 1869. The first were made of wood and canvas and called the “Whirlwind.”

SOAP OPERAS were conceived in 1930 by former Chicago teacher Irna Phillips, who was known as the “Queen of the Soaps.” She went on to develop such long-running favorites such as “Guiding Light” and “As the World Turns.”

WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROLS were developed by Eugene Polley for Zenith Radio Company in 1950 and dubbed the “Flash-Matic.”

MECHANICAL DISHWASHERS were built in 1886 by Josephine Cochrane with help from mechanic George Butters. The invention debuted at the World’s Fair, winning the award for “Best Mechanical Construction.”

BLOOD BANKS were invented by Chicago physician Bernard Fantus at Cook County Hospital in 1937.

LAND’S END began as a mail-order yachting company founded by Gary Comer in Chicago in 1963.

COMPANIES FOUNDED IN CHICAGO include Motorola Solutions, Caterpillar Inc., Exelon, Abbott Labs, W.W. Grainger, Sears & Roebuck, Aon, McDonald’s, United Airlines, John Deere, State Farm, Kraft Heinz, Crate & Barrel, Dominick’s, Discover Card, Allstate and Archer Daniels Midland.

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| FOOD |

GET COOKIN’ WITH...

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| ADVICE |

Keep options open when dealing with aging parents

Saigon Sisters’ Mary Aregoni

manent solution to the issue, convincing your loved ones to utilize a medical alert system could offer some relief and security for both parties.

By Candid Candace Jordan

Dear Candid Candace: I am materialistic and I’m ashamed. My birthday is coming up. If I don’t get precisely what I want, I know that I will feel very disappointed. I’ve tried things like volunteering for nonprofits to try to get back to reality, making a positive difference and changing my perspective, but it didn’t do anything. I still want a bigger house, faster car and the latest pair of sunglasses, and that’s what I strive for.

Stuff makes me happy. I know I’m a good person in other ways.

I’m not sure what else to do.

—Affluenza

Contributing editor ary Nguyen Aregoni, founder and CEO of Saigon Sisters, has always been inspired by her past.

She was a baby when her family moved to Laos to escape the dangers of the war in their homeland of Vietnam. They left everything behind in search of freedom, even living in a refugee camp in Thailand for two years before immigrating to the U.S in 1975.

Saigon Sisters’ Theresa Nguyen (from left), Mama Suu and Their search for freedom, Mary Nguyen Aregoni. along with determination, Mary shares with us her favorite maricourage and ingenuity, paid off in 2009 nade recipe, “the best marinade you will when Mary and her sister, Theresa Nguyen, ever need, ” which she says is perfect for developed the name Saigon Sisters and grilling any meats and seafood. an idea to sell Vietnamese spring rolls at farmer’s markets.

Mary’s Favorite Saigon Their concept, one of the first chosen Sisters’ Marinade • 2 tablespoons of finely chopped by the Chicago French Market, was to sell lemongrass Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches out of a • 2 tablespoons of minced garlic 200-square-foot kiosk. From this humble • 2 tablespoons of minced fresh ginger beginning, the Saigon Sisters restaurant • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil chain expanded into three locations: a • 1/4 cup hot water full-service restaurant in the West Loop; a • 1/2 cup sugar quick-service restaurant inside Northwest• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar ern Memorial Hospital; and a new store• 1 tablespoon of fish sauce front called Bang Chop Thai Kitchen, with • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce more locations in the works.

• 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper “When we came to the U.S. in 1975, • 1/2 teaspoon of salt we were refugees and didn’t know a word of English,” Mary said. “We were able to 1) Dissolve sugar in hot water. Let cool. get a good start with free education and 2) Add the rest of the ingredients jobs for my parents with the help of our and mix well. sponsors and community... I want to help 3) Pour marinade over meats, seafood or connect displaced families to commuvegetables and keep refrigerated for at nities that will sponsor and help them least 30 minutes or overnight. get established quickly and help start 4) Leave the lemongrass, garlic and ginger their new life off on the right foot as my on the proteins for more flavors — family did.” don’t wipe them off before cooking.

Visit saigonsisters.com for locations The marinade can be made ahead of time and hours. and kept in the refrigerator for one week.

M

Dear Candid Candace: My siblings and I are quite worried about our aging parents. Mom is 90 and Dad is 91. While they do not suffer from dementia, per se, they are not nearly as sharp as they used to be, which is of course understandable. Mom stopped driving years ago and Dad still does, but shouldn’t.

Thankfully they have considerable savings and could easily afford high-quality senior living — money is not an issue. Candid, what happens if one of them becomes incapacitated?

And then, not if but when one of them passes, the other will be alone in the apartment. We want to respect their independence, yet are increasingly worried about their well-being.

—Worried about our Parents Dear Worried: First off, I usually try to find something about a question that will allow me to inject some humor into it but, with yours, there is nothing remotely funny about caring for aging parents. Have you taken your parents to a senior living center for visits so they can see for themselves how perfect this arrangement might be for them? At this point in your parents’ lives, they don’t know anything other than independent living, and you’re right to respect this.

Above all, don’t push—empathize and listen. And, while it may not be a per-

Dear Affluenza: I’m guessing you’re not alone in these sentiments. As a matter of fact, for years, I “helped” my husband pick out my birthday gifts. And I agree, it sounds selfish and uncaring but I was only trying to save us both some trouble — him having to buy it and me having to return it. Frankly, as long as your husband is okay with this (and your family), I’m not sure why it should be a concern as to what others think. But I do suggest you offset your good fortune with some volunteerism for those less fortunate, which is really a good idea for everyone.

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

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Strike a pose with Chicago Sta your mark on the Windy City!

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SEPTEMBER 2021 / 17

End of summer at Navy Pier, the People’s Pier Navy Pier, a nonprofit organization, has seen a resurgence of attendees this year with its outstanding array of free public programs, boat tours, dining, shopping and so much more. It’s the end of summer but there’s still plenty of time for a visit. Take a look at what’s on offer, all sure to ignite your imagination and allow your spirits to soar! Who knew they had Tea Cups?

The always popular Centennial Wheel.

Something for everyone, Tea Cups for the wee ones.

Dippin’ Dots ice cream stand.

City Cruises yachts with daily lunch and dinner excursions and, on weekends, midnight voyages and DJs.

Margaritaville Chicago—The Navy Pier branch of Jimmy Buffet’s national restaurant chain.

Navy Pier Drop Tower ride.

Navy Pier’s Carousel recreates the Pier’s Golden Age of the 1920s.

18 / SEPTEMBER 2021

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Streeterville Hidden Gem: Ogden Slip

The peaceful stretch of water known as Ogden Slip is one of Streeterville’s most unique assets. From riverfront dining, kayaking or your own private boat slip—this well kept secret has so much to offer including access to Lake Michigan. Call Gail for more information, today!

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| COMMUNITY CORNER |

Doorperson of the Month Ablavi Ayikpo, The Tides at Lakeshore East

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Ablavi Ayikpo, who works at the Tides at Lakeshore East, is the September Doorperson of the Month. Photos by Jacqueline Davis

By Jacqueline Davis Community Contributor Meet Chicago Star Media’s latest concierge and doorperson of the month, 22-year-old Ablavi Ayikpo. This November will be two years since Ayikpo began working at The Tides at Lakeshore East, where she won the hearts of residents and fellow employees with her uplifting spirit and unmatched devotion to God and serving others.

Ayikpo said she was offered the concierge position on the spot during her job interview and since then has considered The Tides not just her place of work, but also her home.

“I have such a great relationship with my residents,” she said. “They’re not just my residents—I consider them friends.

I know how to keep it on a professional level with them while still maintaining that special friendship and that trust.”

Born in Benin, West Africa, Ayikpo moved to Chicago from Togo, West Africa 16 years ago with her parents, who Ayikpo said suffered and made great sacrifices to bring her to this country.

Ayikpo is often asked where her strength comes from, as she always seems to brighten up the room no matter how

The Tides at Lakeshore East, 360 E. South Water St.

exhausted she gets from overnight shifts.

Ayikpo said all credit goes to her parents, and to God, to whom she prays every day.

“I don’t take shortcuts,” Ayikpo said.

“I’m a hardworking woman and I’m very bubbly. I try to bring a positive energy into whatever room I’m in. My strength does not come from me—if my strength came from me, I would be looking dead and on the floor—my work ethic and my drive all come from above.”

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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SEPTEMBER 2021 / 19

| BACK TO SCHOOL |

Conquer the classroom in a time of masks and COVID As we head into fall, many families have sent their kids off to a new year at school. While often an exciting time, it can also be a stressful time for kids and their parents and especially so this year, with mask mandates and the Delta variant affecting procedures at school.

Successfully navigating this season of great change and growth requires that parents pay close attention to what their kids are experiencing as they transition back to school.

For little ones leaving mom and dad after homeschooling for

a whole year, it can be a time of considerable anxiety. Faced with the crowds in hallways and the pressure to socialize, older kids might withdraw. The disappointment that the world is not yet back to normal and that some friends have grown distant or changed during the pandemic, are realities that youngsters will have to come to terms with.

Although a parent can’t see first-hand what is happening at school, their child’s behavior after school often reflects inner tensions that may be unrecognized even by the child themselves.

Signs of back-to-school anxiety Are your kids less cooperative at home, fighting more with siblings or having trouble going to bed, getting to sleep or waking up? Are they showing symptoms of stress, such as eating too little or too much, having troubled dreams, exhibiting

a shorter fuse than usual, or withdrawing from family and friends?

Many children are not even aware of the stress they are feeling or are unable to recognize what is causing it. You can help them by listening intently to what they are saying. Listening

is the first step in helping them adjust to changes, which will lead to recognizing and rectifying a budding problem.

Once parents and children understand what the concerns are, they can plan together what can Continued on page 20

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| BACK TO SCHOOL |

Guide on how to be too cool for school Staff tips for parents

LATE? NO WORRIES MATE! Rushing is going to be the norm most days. To keep your cool, just follow the rule: If they’re alive, give yourself a high five!

SLAY THEIR AVATARS Level up your parenting and slay their Minecraft, Roblox and Fortnight avatars. Confiscate, block, enable screen time. Stand your ground and you will be inducted into the parenting League of Legends.

SINGULARITY

Advice you won’t hear from the experts

Y

our friendly contributing columnist here with some hints for the kiddies while heading back for another school year.

When taking the bus, if you’re one of the older Jon Cohn students, go to the back.

COMMUNITY Younger kids to the front.

CONTRIBUTOR Automatic, no questions asked. This has been an “unwritten rule” for kids since, it seems, like forever.

Don’t chew on the pencil. A pen is much more effective as it keeps the teeth sharper and leaves less residue.

Sit in the middle of the classroom. Teachers teach to the middle. They know kids who take the front seats are automatically paying attention and they have little shot getting to the ones in the back. The middle seats get most of the attention.

Don’t get too cliquey. Try to hang with different groups of friends. Best to keep as many options open as possible in the incredibly bumpy ride that is school social life.

Never eat new cafeteria items the first few weeks of school. This is important. School ●

●

●

●

●

cafeteria cooks like to come up with some new creations each year. It is best to just wait a bit and let others try these items first. Others can be very effective test cases for rash-inducing menu items or worst yet, dishes that cause a dash to the nearest bathroom or garbage receptacle. Note: Do not pass this tip along to others.

Get to know the front office worker and the custodian. These are two critical people.

Teachers, coaches, guidance counselors, the principal? Yeah, yeah, yeah, we all know. But if you get in good with the person at the front desk and the school custodian—smooth sailing the entire year. ●

If there is a girl or boy that you are interested in, just say hello. Don’t overthink it. The only regret you will have is if you didn’t take the chance. ●

Your P.E. teacher does not want to be known as a “gym teacher.” They have fancier names, such as “wellness and kinesiology” instructors or “body awareness and movement” experts. ●

Jon Cohn is a long-time contributing columnist and has some experience as a grade school physical education teacher in Glenview. He lives in the Lakeshore East neighborhood and is involved in volunteering with numerous groups and sports announcing.

See if your student can benefit from using one thick bound notebook for all subjects instead of separate notebooks for each subject. Date and order the bound pages chronologically.

DON’T SCHLEP For those who can afford it, buy two sets of textbooks. One for home and one for school.

GET MASKS THAT KIDS ACTUALLY LIKE Fit and comfort are very important if your child is going to be wearing a mask all day. Invest in finding a mask your child likes, then buy a box full that they can keep in their backpacks.

Conquer the classroom Continued from page 19 be done to make life better.

The earlier you know and intervene with childhood stressors, the better their school experience will be and that will be true for mom and dad as well.

Suggestions to help you help your kids Spend a little time individually with each of your children to see how the day has gone.

Watch for their difficulty in telling you about something that seems to be a problem area. Ask a few gentle questions to tease out what the trouble might be. Your concern will have a major impact on your child’s experience.

Simply being loved and cared for by mom and dad can soothe a million little problems. ●

●

Consider talking to the teacher or school social worker if you begin to see something worrisome about your child’s school experience. This might help determine if there is a school problem or a problem that is unique to your child at this moment.

Often parents’ positive interest in their child’s school experience leads to a quick resolution of any school-related problem.

Consider a consultation with a mental health professional if you find that your child is having more tension than you or the teacher would expect. ●

●

Updated by Elaine Hyde from the 2016 article “Help your kids with back-to-school stress,” in memory of the late Walter D. Miller, a Chicago social worker and community contributor to New Eastside News.

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C HIC AG O S TAR

SEPTEMBER 2021 / 21

| BACK TO SCHOOL |

Study abroad from home

International travel bans put damper on global excursions

Alessandra Zurini has her bags packed and she’s ready to go—as soon as conditions allow for global travel to resume. Until then, she’s studying stateside. Courtesy of Alessandra Zurini.

By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer Several days before she was set to board a plane for the U.K. to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime study abroad opportunity through Oxbridge Academic Programs, Alessandra Zurini learned her program had been cancelled. Pandemic travel restrictions were to blame for the sudden cancellation at the end of July.

“I was heartbroken,” Zurini said. “It was my last year to do it and I found out only a few days before my departure.”

Zurini, an incoming senior in high school, had planned to use the pre-college, immersive academic experience to amplify her education, build relationships abroad and beef up college applications.

Now Zurini has to create a similar experience closer to home.

Smooth preschool transitions

By Lakefront Children’s Academy Options make snacks simple Making choices at snack time allows children to feel in charge, so present two or three healthy options you’ve already prepared. Give them a second to think about which they will choose.

If you have a strong willed child, they may choose no snack at all, which is just fine.

Time between tasks Transitions can be hard for preschoolers. When possible, give preschoolers time between tasks. If necessary, supply them with timers or minute/hourglass timers as a visual transition aid. Or, just have them count down the numbers when in public.

Preparing for a transition helps give children the opportunity to finish what they’re currently doing and get in the right mindset to tackle the next activity.

Eventually, you won’t need to count or

have visual aids as they grow. Spontaneity is good for surprises but can sometimes be upsetting if a fun game of LEGOS is being interrupted.

Device free pick-ups and drop-offs Saying hellos and goodbyes are pivotal moments for your child. They should be device-free because children are often anxious to get to school and need to get their minds into a learning mode. At pick-up, they are often excited to see you and tell you about their day.

The walk or ride home and to school are valuable times of the day for schoolage kids. These are the special, private times when you can bond, talk to your child and share stories without distractions.

If you’re not the person picking them up, be sure whenever they first see you in person, you create a 15 minute or more “you and me time” that is device free.

“In Chicago I can connect with people from all over the world,” she said. “I’m looking for an internship, trying to network and salvage some of the opportunity I could have had at Oxford.”

Zurini said it’s been hard to find internships because many companies haven’t returned to an in-person office.

“I have definitely learned resilience through this experience and that the only constant is change,” she said.

Zurini is honing her skills at home with ambitions of landing an internship doing social media work in Chicago.

“I have strong research capabilities, solid communication and interpersonal skills and experience with brand integration, social media activation and a rigorous work ethic,” she said.

There could be some hope on the hori-

zon for global exploration, since some local universities are tentatively planning to go ahead with study abroad programs this upcoming academic year.

Loyola University Chicago, Northwestern University, University of Chicago and DePaul University have intentions to resume study abroad programs, if conditions allow. But fluctuating travel advisories have meant many popular study abroad program locations keep popping up on the U.S. State Department’s “Do Not Travel” list.

“While there is currently a great deal of uncertainty in the world, DePaul Study Abroad continues to plan upcoming in-person programs,” said Kristin Mathews, DePaul University’s assistant director of news and integrated content.

“We have about 60 students planning to depart for programs this fall.”

22 / SEPTEMBER 2021

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SPOTLIGHTING THE ‘CHIC’ IN CHICAGO! Strike a pose with Chicago Star and make your mark on the Windy City!

Now in our 8th issue, our unique paper shines a light on positive news and all the people who make our city great. For our October edition, we will be highlighting Chicago fashion and beauty.

When we think of Windy City fashion, it’s with you in mind and we want to celebrate all you do to help put the Chic in Chicago!

To participate in this debut issue contact info@chicagostarmedia.com Graphic deadline: September 20, 2021 Photo by John Reilly

Photo by John Reilly

Photo by Phillip Emigh

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SEPTEMBER 2021 / 23

| NEWS BREAK |

Back-to-routine season brings Fall Year’s resolutions

W

e should have Fall Year’s resolutions instead of New Year’s resolutions.

Are you familiar? No? That’s because I just made it up. Will it become a new trendy term like “FOMO?” Probably not.

Fall is a time of getting back Bridget McGuire to routine.

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTOR As a child, you get fresh bookbags and notebooks to prepare for the upcoming school year. Sports, music lessons and after-school clubs begin. Not to mention the excitement of having new teachers, learning new things and making new friends.

As an adult, fall brings quiet and an opportunity to renew. I’ll miss the warm weather, outdoor events and

summer Fridays, but I’m ready to start a new season, turn over a new leaf—bad pun intended. Perhaps fall is when we should make resolutions and ask ourselves, “How do I want to end my year?”

People rarely keep their New Year’s resolutions. I looked back at mine to see how I did—and it’s not pretty.

On New Year’s Day, while hungover and bloated, I promised I’d quit drinking, go vegan, make my bed daily, volunteer weekly and lose 20 pounds monthly. I was confident that I’d make huge changes and would be unrecognizable by the following New Year’s Eve, if not Feb 1.

I crushed those resolutions until Jan. 9, when I found myself pouring a glass of wine and ordering a chicken burrito from Grubhub. I stared at my unmade bed knowing I wouldn’t make it to that volunteer meeting in an hour. My New Year’s resolutions have an extremely low success rate.

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.

Community photo

Jumble OLOCSH RBLAIYR ERNLIGAN

One year I was dead set on traveling overseas, but only made it to Valparaiso. One year I signed up for improv, knitting and rock-climbing courses, only to drop out after one class. I’ve registered for three marathons, only to have run three Shamrock Shuffles instead.

I’ve decied to tweak my New Year’s resolutions, rename them my Fall Year’s resolutions and set goals that are a bit more attainable.

I’m participating in Sober September. I’ll make my bed every Monday and Friday. I’m volunteering at Digs with Dignity. And the losing weight goal? Maybe it’s just no Grubhub burritos until after 5 p.m. Veggie, of course.

RWMEHKOO ARSOCMLSO AORYGDUPLN

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

Knowledge or academic attainment: Previous puzzle answer: A wooden promenade across a beach: BOARDWALK

WHERE AM I?

Do you know where this is?

If you think you know this spot, email us at info@chicagostarmedia.com

Answer to August Where am I? Lakeshore Park

The Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 32,000 animals, including Wellington the penguin and his Beluga whale friends. Shedd Aquarium photo by Brenna Hernandez

24 / SEPTEMBER 2021

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