VOL. 6 NO. 3
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April 2018
Four generations under one roof— The Viviano Family Page 4
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Must drink this spring Bubble tea
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A brief history of New Eastside Page 6
Puppies performing improv Page 7 Joanna and Al Viviano sit on what they’ve claimed as their “secret bench” in Lake Shore East Park. Photo by Gianna Annunzio
Spot New Eastside on TV and film
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Chicago’s iconic souvenir shops
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Safety ambassador patrols Lakeshore East Page 10 Spring cleaning Tips for keeping toys organized
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2 / APRIL 2018
How to Contact Us
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Staff Writers: Angela Gagnon Taylor Hartz Stephanie Racine Nicole VandeBoom B. David Zarley Layout/Design: Mark Coleman Community Contributors: Jon Cohn Elizabeth Johnston Reemaa Konkimalla Matthew Reiss New Eastside News is published monhtly by Eastside Enterprises LLC. New Eastside News uses and values community writers and contributors. Views expressed by community contributors are their own. New Eastside News does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. New Eastside News is independently owned and operated. Copyright Š2018. All rights reserved.
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4 / APRIL 2018
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Four generations of the Viviano family call New Eastside home twin boys, Luke and Jacob. The couple’s son, Dante Viviano, lives in the South Loop Over the course of a decade, members of with his wife Francesca. As a tight-knit family with Italian roots, having all memthe Viviano family have moved across the country and settled in Chicago. Today, four bers in one city completed their transition to Chicago living. generations of relatives, with ages ranging “It’s been such a joy and a convenience from 2 months to 88-years-old, call the for us,” said Joanna Viviano, who takes New Eastside neighborhood home. With care of the twins three days a week. “Our most members occupying an apartment children grew up in the suburbs, but I see in the Park Millennium building, 222 N. times have changed. People don’t feel that Columbus Dr., making a trip to visit family need any more to move to the suburbs with is as easy as pushing an elevator button. children. ” Al and Joanna Viviano developed a love Since their move, the Vivianos have for Chicago while visiting their daughter, experienced nothing but satisfaction while Davina Viviano (now Davina Simon) when assimilating into to the New Eastside she began college at DePaul University. neighborhood. Joanna now works at the After spending years living in Philadelphia Mon Ami Jewelry store on Wabash, selling and Louisville, the couple purchased an a variety of fine jewelry. Al, who used apartment in Park Millennium in 2010. to make a career out of selling pasta to The area provided the Vivianos with the national restaurant chains, is now retired. feeling of “a friendly neighborhood,” In his spare time, he creates children’s within the urban excitement of downtown picture books. Chicago—or in their words, “the best of With four generations to socialize with, both worlds.” and twin grandsons to entertain, Al and Al and Joanna now permanently live in Joanna appreciate New Eastside’s central New Eastside’s Park Millennium along with location to child-friendly urban activities. Joanna’s mother, Rose Cirincioni. Davina “We’re going to be taking [the twins] to the Simon and her husband Chad also live in park and Navy Pier,” Joanna said. “There’s the building with their two-month-old By Gianna Annunzio Staff Writer
also a Baskin Robbins, and the Aon Plaza where they can play around the fountain,” she said. “We have it all planned out.” “I’m already developing Pedway games,” Al added. “There are a lot of things you can do in the Pedway, so I hope other kids join us.” When the family first moved into Park Millennium, Joanna said there were very few families with children occupying units. Today, the area has significantly developed into a family destination. “The area has become so child-friendly with Maggie Daley Park, the Cultural Center and the Pedway,” Joanna said. “I often tell my friends that this area, with the New Eastside and the Loop, has become like a Disney World for children.” As couples with families continue to move in, Davina Simon has also begun joining in on the community culture. “There are so many babies on [her] floor, and they have a group already formed,” Joanna said. “They go down to where the swimming pool is in our building and they congregate with their children, like a little mother’s club.” As a couple, Al and Joanna enjoy going to the movies, grocery shopping together
Joanna and Al Viviano in the lobby of the Park Millennium building, 222 N. Columbus Dr. Photo by Gianna Annunzio
at Mariano’s, and taking advantage of the restaurants close by. “We always say going to the grocery store is a ‘walk in the park,’” Joanna said. “[Al] and I have a secret bench at Aqua Park, and we enjoy it so much. Whenever we go we sit on this particular bench—we claim it and we just love it. We’ve been married 40 years and it’s still romantic for us.”
The Stroller Run comes to Grant Park line together at the end of a race. “The excitement on their faces and watching that accomplishment happen was everything,” The Stroller Run is coming June 2 to she said. Chicago’s Grant Park, 337 E. Randolph St. Flanigan started running after college The first event of its kind, this untimed but found things changed when she had 5K for runners and their children will her first baby. “It was like my freedom was emphasize the benefits of leading an active taken away, but the running stroller was lifestyle. Participants can look forward to life-changing in getting that freedom back,” enjoying a beautiful and accessible course Flanigan said. The Stroller Run was partly along the lakefront, followed by some pam- designed to focus on what makes things pering and relaxation at the finish line. easiest for the moms. “It’s not a competi“The Stroller Run celebrates accomplish- tion,” she explained. “It’s about the mom.” ments of fitness,” said Jen Flanigan, direcErin Gehring, Event Director for the tor of strategic partnerships and mom of Chicago run, has been busy planning the three. Flanigan, who has been an integral race attractions, which include a Kids part of the event’s creation, said the impeCamp and Mom Expo. There will be craft tus behind taking this concept nationally activities, coloring, bubbles and more at was seeing parents and kids cross the finish the Kids Camp. While the supervised little By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer
Moms and kids participate in the The Stroller Run. Photo courtesy of The Stroller Run
ones explore and create, parents will be free to browse the Mom Expo. “We’ve partnered with care.com to arrange child care for the kids following the race,” Gehring said. “We will have classes, vendor booths, food trucks and even lounge chairs for anyone who wants to just relax.” Proceeds from The Stroller Run will benefit Chicago Hopes for Kids, a local charity dedicated to empowering the lives of children living in homeless shelters through education. All participants will receive an official race bib, a t-shirt and a pinwheel or water-gun. To learn more about The Stroller Run and register for the event, visit thestrollerrun.com and use the code “EASTSIDE” for 25% off race registration.
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Doorperson of the month
APRIL 2018 / 5
Chicago’s favorite salon is now open in Lakeshore East Park.
Eduardo Zaragoza Del Toro
773-388-9999 333 E. Benton Place Suite 106
By Gianna Annunzio Staff Writer Eduardo Zaragoza Del Toro has spent weekends greeting residents at the Heritage building, 130 N. Garland Ct., since November 2015. His career as a lobby desk staff member began after a friend, who worked as a Heritage concierge, recommended Del Toro to the building’s property manager. The hiring process proceeded swiftly from that moment on. “I went to go check it out and he interviewed me,” Del Toro said. “The day after, I get a call. It was unexpected, to be honest. It’s a great place to be.” As a Chicago native living in the Pilsen area, Del Toro’s job has only increased his passion for downtown living. He said one of his favorite things about working at the Heritage is striking up conversations with everyone he meets.“It’s cool how [residents] go from not knowing [me], to getting on a personal level,” he said. “Every conversation I have with them I either learn something new, or get to know them better.” Del Toro said some Heritage residents have been exceptionally caring, even during the holidays. “They’ve invited me on Thanksgiving to have dinner with the family,” he said. “It’s stuff like that that makes me feel like I’m actually welcome there.” Del Toro said one of his greatest
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Eduardo Zaragoza Del Toro has worked at 130 N. Garland Ct. since November 2015. Photo by Reemaa Konkimalla
passions outside the Heritage is creating photorealistic drawings. After attending the School of the Art Institute for a year, he now sells commissions to art seekers. “I’ve only been drawing for six years, but I’d like to think I’m pretty experienced,” he said. “If it’s up to me, I’ll do cityscapes or still life portraits, but most commissions I get, they ask for a [drawing of a] person. It’s usually what I’m doing every single day to be honest.” Leading a life with the perfect balance of hobbies and career aspirations, Del Toro said his greatest takeaway from his job is the unique connections he makes with residents. “You always see people on the street and you’re hesitant to go up and talk to them,” he said. “This job kind of made it easier for me to do stuff like that.”
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6 / APRIL 2018
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A brief history of New Eastside
The One Prudential Plaza building can be seen (bottom left) in this photo of New Eastside in 2002. The former nine-hole golf course that was situated where the Lake Shore East Park is today is also visible (center). Photo courtesy of near.org
community we know today. In the 1980s, the term “New Eastside” came about, giving the neighborhood Lakeshore East Park gives residents a name. Metropolitan Structures also the escape of a serene oasis in the middle constructed 14 buildings in New Eastside of a bustling city. Residents walk these during the 1980s and ‘90s. From 1994 to sidewalks and stroll through the park daily—but do they know the history of the 2001, the area now known as Lake Shore East Park was a nine-hole golf course. cement their sneakers tread? At the dawn of the new millennium, Before rosy-cheeked children squealed through the grass, New Eastside was home Magellan Development Group stepped in with its vision and started further develto railroad steel and stone. In the mid1800s, Chicago was faced with a shoreline oping the area by building eight highrises flooding problem. Upscale homes built on to date, along with the Village Market and Lake Shore East Park. Michigan Avenue, harboring a lakefront In 2014, GEMS World Academy Chicaview, were prone to water damage. Chicago opened its doors, giving the neighborgo needed an improved harbor and seawall, but could not afford to tackle the task hood its first K–12 school. The remaining vacant site in the northeast corner of by itself. Illinois Central Railroad (ICRR) the park is reserved for a future Chicago was in a position to provide aid, but its public school. price was a portion of the coveted shoreLooking forward, even more growth line property. In exchange for constructing a break wall from Randolph St. to 22nd is projected for our neighborhood. Vista St., the Federal Government allotted ICRR Tower is expected to open its doors in just under two acres of land from the old 2019, GEMS Upper-Middle school is in Fort Dearborn. This is where Lake Shore the works and plans for three to four addiEast Park now flourishes. tional residential buildings were presented In 1955, One Prudential Plaza, 130 E. to the community. These projects will conRandolph St., had its grand opening. Not tinue to foster the spirit of development only was it the first of many buildings New Eastside has embodied throughout to create the hub that is currently New its history. Eastside, it was also the first Chicago Information for this story was collected office built after a 21-year drought. Eight from the archives of New Eastside News, years later, a residential building, 400 E. and from the websites of the New Eastside Randolph St., was built. These buildings set the stage for transforming an industri- Association of Residents and Magellan al-centered area to the beginnings of the Development. By Nicole VandeBoom Staff Writer
Photo courtesy of Urban Real Estate
Midwest buyers feel optimistic about buying, HOME survey says By Urban Real Estate In the full swing of another spring in Chicago’s real estate market, the climate has slightly changed from recent years and yes—it will make a difference. In the first quarter of the year alone, mortgage rates have increased to a four-year high. Paired with a critical shortage of home listings in many markets, including ours, this is sparking a hike in home prices making for a highly-competitive climate. The National Association of Realtors first quarter Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) survey looked at what these trends mean for real estate and found that while many buyers feel that now is a good time to buy, this attitude was most prevalent in the Midwest and South regions. According to Urban Real Estate managing partner Matt Farrell, this positive change is due to new opportunities. “Sellers have the tremendous opportunity to sell today as options are fewer, and those that are available are priced at a premium, and often garner rapid, multiple offers if
priced correctly,” he said. “The goal is to strategically consider what your home’s value is against other homes available, and welcome those competing for a piece of the pie where few homes are available for sale.” Those on the fence about buying a home have an important decision to make. According to Urban Real Estate senior partner Michael Emery, the survey indicates most potential buyers feel positive about the general economy, but the fear buyers have about their own financial situation can be daunting. “Sitting down with your trusted real estate advisor and a lender to review your buying power today is critical if you are on the fence,” said Emery. “Experienced brokers can help you understand what investment makes the most sense for you, and how to help you find an affordable option that meets your needs.” To contact New Eastside’s Urban Real Estate, call (312) 528-9200 or visit UrbanRealEstate.com
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Community Contributors
Lost and found in the auto pound
is known as “The Central Auto Pound.” Do people pay extra to extricate their vehicle from our exclusive neighborhood? “Come for the car, stay for the urban oasis” could If you’ve ever be our new tourism motto. had your car Now, truth be told, if you’ve been down towed, you know there, you know it is not a pretty sight. the pain and Steven Spielberg could use the place as a misery of dealing setting for his next horror movie. It’s got all Jon Cohn with trying to get the essentials—mysterious darkness, an out it back. It’s one of of the way location, strange sounds, scary those life experiences we could do without. echoes, shady characters, innocent civilians But, did you know that New Eastside is and quite possibly, questionable money home to Chicago’s finest auto pound? exchanges. If you check the City of Chicago website, We could title this scare flick, “Lost and our auto pound is listed right at the top. Found in the Auto Pound.” Christopher Maybe it has to do with the beautiful new Walken would be perfect as the auto pound landscaping surrounding the site. Have director—or maybe Jack Nicholson. you noticed the freshly scraped pieces Ironically, the only time that dingy area of blacktop on the ground lately? Lovely, ever looked good was when Bumblebee really lovely. and his friends from the Transformers In fact, the 400 E. Lower Wacker location movies would spend their lunch hour
parked—when they were not out saving the world, of course—along the curb while tourists and locals gawked and took pictures. No doubt they read Yelp and headed down there for the food trucks.
Puppies perform improv for PAWS Chicago benefit show
Coast replaces dry cleaners with Tide Spin
By Jon Cohn Community Contributor
By Matthew Reiss Community Contributor I have performed sketch and improvisational comedy for over 25 years, but one show last August was a first for me. In front of a large crowd at Second City’s Donny’s Skybox Theater, 1608 N. Wells St., I performed a comedy scene with a puppy. My comedy group, The Stuntmen, put on a benefit show to support PAWS Chicago, but rather than simply raising money, we wanted to use the show to encourage pet adoptions. What better way than to bring the puppies on stage? PAWS selected a trio of puppies for the event—Malcolm, Luca and Jodie—each with a backstage handler. All three of the puppies, along with a number of their peers, were adopted the very next day. During our improv scene, Malcom felt so comfortable on stage that he decided to take a nap on my feet. It became a fun
element for the audience because, in my efforts not to disturb Malcolm’s slumber, I was forced to limit my movements and speak with a soft voice. It changed the direction of the scene in a very sweet and unexpected way. The three puppies did remarkably well in the moment. Luca was a little nervous, but then, who isn’t when in front of the lights? The show was such a success, that a second benefit show has been scheduled for April 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the same location. In addition to encouraging the adoption of a new cast of puppy performers, PAWS hopes to use the proceeds to purchase a treadmill for the dogs at the shelter. There is an unofficial rule in live theater that states, “Never work with animals,” but this partnership of PAWS and the Stuntmen is proving that rules were made to be broken.
The City of Chicago Central Auto Pound, 400 E. Lower Wacker Dr., is the main car impound for Chicago. Photo by Stephanie Racine
By Jill Finnessy Community Contributor People in New Eastside look for convenience in everything. An easy ride?—tap, tap—order an Uber. An easy meal? Tap, tap—order Grubhub. Where was the tap, tap service for wash-and-fold laundry? Tide Spin, the startup wash and fold laundry service that customers access via a smartphone app, has replaced the on-site dry cleaners at the Coast apartment building in Lakeshore East, 345 E. Wacker Dr., with black lockers for customers to drop off and pick up their laundry. The switch to Tide Spin services happened in February 2018. Instead of leaving laundry with a doorman or in a package room dry cleaners, Coast residents can simply leave their laundry in a Tide Spin locker and sign on to the app to request a pick up. And Coast is not Tide Spin’s only
Bottom line, if Optimus Prime found it a great place to spend his time, you can add our lovely auto pound to the list of great things we are proud of here in our New Eastside neighborhood.
preferred partnership; Tide Spin provides services to customers and buildings throughout Lakeshore East, an area Tide Spin CEO David VanHimbergen knows well after living in the Aqua building himself for close to a year. VanHimbergen, a former Procter & Gamble brand manager, saw potential in the Chicago market. “I didn’t know much about the service side of laundry or mobile apps, how to start a company, how to hire people, how to get leadership rallied around us, but I was committed to it and I decided to fight for it. I strongly believe there are invaluable lessons that we had to learn by being small and scrappy,” VanHimbergen explained. The company first started testing its services in Chicago in 2016 and has seen near double-digit growth month after month and now services 26 ZIP codes in the Chicago area spanning from Rogers Park to the South Loop.
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Bubble Tea—what is it, where can you get it and why is it so popular? tomers to enjoy a cool drink or ice cream al fresco. Outside most restaurant and cafes in From MingHin Cuisine and Argo Tea Chinatown are long, menus stretching in New Eastside’s zip code to nearly every from ceiling to sidewalk, advertising shop in Chinatown, bubble tea can be bubble tea with colorful images of the found in hundreds of cafes, restaurants tea drinks. and sweet shops across Chicago. The fun, At Joy Yee, 2131 S. China Pl.—which was flavorful drink consists of an iced tea, milk ranked one of the best spots for bubble tea tea or smoothie with a pile of bubbles— boba, jelly cubes, tapioca pearls or popping in Chicago by Time Out magazine—there bubbles—at the bottom, adding extra flavor are more than 150 flavors. Joy Yee offers its bubble teas in to-go cups, with several and texture. But what exactly is bubble kinds of tapioca pearls, popping bubbles tea? What has spurred the unique treat’s popularity in Chicago and cities across the that launch a burst of flavor, or cubed world? The team at New Eastside News set jellies. The teas come in flavors ranging from fruits such as banana, cantaloupe, waout to find the answers. termelon and papaya to other interesting Bubble tea, as its known colloquially options such as green bean, ginger, milk here in the U.S., originated in Taiwan. According to the Bubbleology website, the and avocado. Frankie Juan, who works at the Chinadrink’s popularity began in Taiwan in the town “to-go” Joy Yee—a smaller version 1980s, following the lead of tea shop owner of the cafe with counter service—said Lie Han-Chieh. With tea shops lining the the to-go shop’s most popular item is the city and village streets, tea had always “popping boba” in mango, strawberry and been a big part of Taiwanese culture, but it lychee flavors. wasn’t until 1983 that the bubble trend was “When you put it in your mouth and sparked by Han-Chieh. squeeze it, it gives a burst of flavor,” Han-Chieh began adding “pearls” made Juan said. of tapioca—a chewy-textured starch from We tried out the refreshing, juice-like the cassava root—to the bottom of her Summer Rainbow fruit tea with lychee drinks and shaking up the concoction, jelly and a thicker, greener-tasting avocado creating a frothy foam at the top. Tradismoothie with fruit bursts at the bottom tionally, the drinks were made with fresh fruit and were (and continue to be) geared in the form of strawberry popping boba. If you’re having trouble imagining what the towards those with a sweet tooth. popping boba might be like, think of Fruit MingHin Cuisine, 333 E. Benton Pl., Gushers. The boba release a similar squirt has included bubble tea on their menu for about two years now, but with the addition of intense flavor. Next door to Joy Yee in Chinatown, of a few new drinks and desserts coming in Saint’s Alp teahouse, 2157 S. China Pl., April, bubble tea is again in the limelight. At MingHin, customers get their tapioca offers an interesting menu of gourmet fruit smoothies and milk teas in flavors like balls straight from Taiwan. They are then kumquat lime and ginger citron with cococooked on site and added to drinks, according to manager Leo Ho. “We cook and nut water bubbles. The menu describes the shop’s tea flavors as “saintly” with options use fresh tapioca daily,” Ho said. MingHin like black milk tea with wheat germ and also features authentic Asian bubble tea dragon pearl tea. We tried a frozen banana flavors such as Lychee and Coconut Milk. chiller with very chewy bubbles. In April, MingHin will debut its new For a more adventurous choice, try one drink menu along with some new desserts of the 10 flavors on Saint’s Alp “Surprise including fresh ice cream made in-house Specials” menu. These exciting options with classic flavors such as green tea and red bean. Their patio will be open for cuscome with titles like “Apple Wonderland,” By Taylor Hartz and Stephanie Racine Staff Writers
Kung Fu Tea’s bubble cups sport a classic look, with a thick straw and tapioca “bubbles” lining the bottom of their drinks. Joy Yee in Chinatown (right) offers an interesting menu of gourmet fruit smoothies and milk teas in flavors like kumquat lime and ginger citron with coconut water bubbles. Photos by Taylor Hartz
“Blackjack” and “Grasshopper.” The shop offers nata bubbles made from coconut served in yogurt dishes with flavors like peach, strawberry and passionfruit. The dessert menu includes herbal jelly with tapioca bubbles and red bean jelly served hot or cold. When we sat down at our third spot, Chi Cafe at 2160 S. Archer Ave., we were delighted to find an option we had been looking for—grass jelly. Instead of bubbles, pearls or any ball shaped jelly at the bottom of the drink, grass jelly stands tall and proud, wiggling around like grass or seaweed in your tea. As our server approached, we noticed something was a bit different. There was no clear plastic cup with a thick, brightly colored bubble straw poking out. Instead, we were served a bowl and spoon. Over a bed of shaved ice was a soupy bowl of white, milky tea, with big cubes of reddish brown jelly, and slimy, slippery “grass jelly” floating around. Despite its strange appearance, the dish was tasty. With its mix of so many textures however, this was one tea we couldn’t stomach all of. We found a smoother texture at Argo Tea, 435 N. Michigan Ave., which offers bubbles made of “nata de coco”—a jelly that barista Brandon Poole explained is
made from fermented coconut water with caramel syrup. These bubbles, unlike those made from tapioca, are vegan and gluten free. “We serve these because they’re a great alternative for people with allergies,” Poole said. The Argo menu offers a “build your own” option that Poole said customers tend to favor when ordering a bubble tea. First, customers choose from a variety of teas, including green, white, black, red American and mint. Then, they choose a flavor from a long list of flavors featuring caramel, raspberry, coconut, peach, mango, mint, vanilla, hazelnut, dark chocolate or white chocolate. “You can kind of build your whole drink from the ground up and then have your jellies at the bottom,” Poole said. Poole’s favorite bubble drinks are green tea raspberry and black tea coconut, with most customers favoring the latter. “It’s pretty much all we make in the summer,” he said. No matter the season, these sweet, flavorful and incredibly interesting drinks are “popping” up at more and more Chicago locations, so go out and try one. With this much variety, you won’t even be able to make a dent in the list of options—trust us, we tried.
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Chicago on TV and film
Chicago Fire films in Lakeshore East in October 2017. Photo by Elizabeth Johnston
local restaurant were featured in the show’s most recent episode on March 29. Resident Elizabeth Johnston caught Over the past few years, Chicago has sight of some celebrities at III Forks last become a film and TV star in its own October, capturing shots of Chicago Fire right, with the city serving as the set stars Jesse Spencer, David Eigenberg, for shows like Chicago Fire, Empire and Miranda Rae Mayo and Yuri Sardarov in Shameless. Last year was the biggest yet for action right in our own neighborhood. the Chicago film industry, and glimpses of Last month, Johnston spotted the cast of our city can be spotted in episodes airing Chicago Med during a shoot at local gym, throughout 2018, including some shots of Lakeshore Sport and Fitness. Chicago Med, New Eastside. a spinoff of Chicago Fire, also filmed on A total of 580 film projects were shot in Lake Street at the beginning of March. Chicago in 2017, including eight full-seaRichard Moskal, the Director of the Chison television series and three upcoming cago Film Office, said New Eastside has a feature films starring the likes of Dwayne certain appeal. “The Rock” Johnson, John Goodman and “Skyline vistas and its abundance of Viola Davis. cinematic architecture is what makes the Film production rates in 2017 spiked New Eastside so compelling to producers about 27 percent from 2016, with crews and directors, ” Moskal said. clocking 2404 full “production days” on The director said New Eastside looks city streets in the calendar year, according especially compelling on screen, with our to the Chicago Film Office. great vantage point of the city. The office, located at 78 E. Washington While New Eastside has certainly gotten St. regulates filming rights in the city, and its share of the fame, the building used as last year issued 2200 filming permits, averthe main firehouse in Chicago Fire is a bit aging about 25 to 40 film permits a week. further south, in the University Village And New Eastside hasn’t been left out of neighborhood. the spotlight. And if it looks like a real, working fire Chicago Fire, the NBC drama that station on TV, that’s because it is—station follows the work and life of firefighters, scenes for the show are shot in a fully rescue squad members and paramedics, functioning Chicago Fire Department filmed at the III Forks restaurant near firehouse. When it isn’t packed with actors Lakeshore East more than a few times. The and camera crews, the firehouse, located patio can be spotted in a rescue scene that Turn to Screen, Page 10 aired last November, and other parts of the By Taylor Hartz and Stephanie Racine Staff Writers
continued on p. 13
Send story ideas and tips to info@neweastsidecommunity.com
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New Eastside features on TV and film Screen, from Page 9
at 1360 S. Blue Island Ave. at Maxwell St. between 13th and Racine Ave., serves as the headquarters of Engine 18. The fire department has estimated the show films there about 22 times per year, drawing crowds of tourists year-round to check out the fictional firefighters’ home base. While we probably all enjoy pointing at our screens excitedly when we spot a familiar setting in shows like Chicago Fire, Chicago PD and Chicago Med, some use these series as a way to show their city, and New Eastside, to far away family members. Shelley Stunard, who runs a New Eastside real estate office at 400 E. Randolph St, said the show has fostered a special bond between her and her father, connecting the two between Chicago and Dallas. Stunard’s father, 88-year-old Charles Schneider, may live in Texas, but he wears his Chicago Fire t-shirt with pride. “He wears it as proud as his Navy hat,” Stunard said. Stunard’s parents, and many of her friends, live in her home city of Dallas,
spot other city sights in three films that will come out this year. Rampage, which features The Rock and a King Kong-esque gorilla character, hits theaters on April 13. On August 14, movie-goers will get a glimpse of the city that they may not be too fond of—Goodman’s new film, Captive State, is set in a Chicago neighborhood a decade after it has been occupied by an extraterrestrial force. Oscar-winner Viola Davis will star in Widows this November, following the lives of four Chicago widows coping with their late husbands’ criminal debts. Chicago streets can also be spotted in FOX’s ongoing hit, Empire, and Showtime’s dysfunctional—yet lovable—South Side family, the Gallaghers, will return for a seventh season of Shameless. Tune in online for Seasons 1 and 2 of a Netflix original series called Easy that focuses on modern romance in our city, or for Amazon’s release of a 10-episode standalone sci-fi series called Electric Dreams. A few new shows will also be debuting this year set on the South Side. Showtime is following their Shameless success with
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According to a Jan. 25 statement by Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the Chicago Film Office at the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the film and television industry in Chicago is definitely on an upward climb. Chicago has seen steady year over year increases in media production since 2011, the mayor said in a statement, resulting in an estimated $423 million in job creation
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and expenditures. The Illinois Film Office—which awards a 30 percent tax credit to film makers— said television and advertising productions in 2017 employed 13,797 job hires, earning $251 million in wages. “Chicago’s film and media community is diverse and growing, producing a wide variety of entertainment and commercial content,” Moskal said.
Private security hired to patrol Lakeshore East
A security guard wearing a red jacket patrols the Lakeshore East Park. The ambassador has been hired by the Lakeshore East Master Association to act as a deterrent to crime in the area. Photo by Stephanie Racine
service agent and can answer questions about amenities, events, and businesses in the area and he will be able to report on In late February, the Lakeshore East any issues that concern residents, such as Master Association announced in an email graffiti, suspicious activity, and damaged to residents that they had hired Monterrey signs or lampposts. Security, a private security firm, to provide The Association stressed in the emails the Lakeshore East area with a safety that the ambassador is not the police and ambassador, who will act as a deterrent is unable to make arrests, but rather serves against crime in the neighborhood. as an extension of the eyes and ears for poSecurity guard Jequan Lewis, will patrol lice and can be in contact with the police on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to 2 as he makes his rounds. If a resident feels a.m. Residents will be able to identify the unsafe or sees a crime being committed new safety ambassador by the bright red they are advised to call 911. jacket he wears with the words “Monterrey Monterrey Security has many contracts Security” written on the front and back. in Chicago, including with Soldier Field, The email also described the ambasLincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, and the ansador’s responsibilities. He can be used nual Lollapalooza music festival, according as a walking escort, act as a witness in to their website. any crime he observes, liaise between As of the time of printing, the Lakeshore the community and the police, and make East Master Association and Monterrey suggestions on how to improve safety in Security had not responded to requests for the area. He will also act as a customer further information. By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer
Chicago Fire films in Lakeshore East in October 2017. Photo by Elizabeth Johnston
and her parents are not well enough to make the trip to Chicago for a visit. But thanks to Chicago-based shows, they’re able to connect with their daughter by spotting her neighborhood on TV. “My dad always comments on scenes on Chicago Fire filmed in the New Eastside neighborhood or where our buildings are in the background,” said Stunard, “It keeps us a little more connected.” As for the rest of Chicago, viewers can
the launch of a new series called The Chi, set in the area, and Comedy Central is set to launch the pilot for a show called South Side. Chicago Fire, Chicago MED and Chicago PD are all currently filming new episodes. Beyond visible film and television productions, the Chicago Film Office also works with student filmmakers, television commercial producers, and independent filmmakers.
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New Eastside iconic Chicago souvenir shops By Taylor Hartz Staff Writer
kernels daily and mixes in secret family ingredients to create a menu full of flavors. At their Randolph St. store, Garrett PopIf you’re looking for a little piece of Chicago to take with you on your next trip corn offers its signature CheeseCorn, CaramelCrisp and Garrett Mix—a blend of the to visit friends and family, look no further than New Eastside. From pizza pies to min- two. Popcorn lovers feeling adventurous iature Chicago Bean replicas, New Eastside can try out specialty flavors like hickory is Chicago’s hub for touristy souvenirs and bacon and chocolate covered strawberry. Popcorn orders can be purchased in bags Illinois-themed gifts. or tins, which come in a plethora of ChicaMany Chicagoans would agree that go themes including the Chicago skyline, the best gift is a deep dish pizza. While Wrigley Field and Chicago sports teams. stopping into Giordano’s, 130 East RanIf you’re looking for a souvenir that can’t dolph St., to enjoy a piping hot deep dish be eaten, check out the My Chicago store, is the norm, the pizzeria also offers frozen 28 S. Michigan Ave. An array of miniapies to go. ture Cloud Gates, tiny Willis Towers and Inside the New Eastside Giordano’s Chicago skyline snow globes decorate the restaurant, 130 E. Randolph St., a refrigerwindows at the souvenir gift shop. The ator by the register is stacked with frozen novelty t-shirts hung in the doorway are a pizzas in three popular flavors—plain big hit, according to sales assistant Ancheese, pepperoni and sausage. “We offer drew Grants. Many people favor the “Save travel bags that hold up to six pizzas, and Ferris” tee —an homage to the 1986 cult keep them frozen for over five hours,” said classic film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. “It’s one general manager Nerius Jankauskas. of the shirts we always make sure we keep If you’re headed out of state to visit in stock in the window, ” Grants said. friends or family, let them know you’ll be In fact, Ferris Bueller-themed merchanbringing dinner all the way from Chicago. dise is so popular that the store has dedJankauskas said the take-home pizzas are icated an entire wall to it. Three different nearly as popular as dine-in pizzas. “We’re in a very touristy area,” Jankauskas said, “so styles of “Save Ferris” t-shirts are fully on weekends when big events are happen- stocked, alongside bobbleheads of Matthew ing—like the recent Cubs convention—we Broderick’s beloved character. Another favorite, said Grants, are sell hundreds and hundreds a day.” Chicago Cubs Christmas tree ornaments. Take-home pizzas carry a price tag of $17.95 per pie for a medium size deep dish, Whether it’s during the holiday season and the insulated carrying cases run $7.95 or in the heat of summer, Grants said many tourists and locals stop in to get each. However, if you buy two pizzas, you a decoration honoring the 2016 World get your bag for free. Series winners. For those who don’t want to carry an When all else fails, nothing beats a box extra bag, Giordano’s offers the option of chocolates from Illinois-based Fannie to order online at at giordanos.com and May Chocolates, 117 N. Wabash Ave. In have your favorite pie shipped to you. The addition to an iconic box of “Pixie” chocrestaurant also offers additional souvenirs olates and the shop’s specialty meltaways, like mugs and t-shirts, with the words “I got stuffed at Giordano’s” printed on them. guests can feast on a wide array of chocIf lugging frozen pizzas across state lines olate-covered strawberries. The strawberries come covered in 100 percent real is not your cup of tea, a blend of cheese chocolate, in colors ranging from familiar and caramel popcorn from Garrett’s, dark and white chocolates to pink, blue dubbed the ‘Chicago mix’ offers a lighter and green. alternative. Tempting passersby with the Putting a local spin on your favorite smell of warm caramel popcorn, Garrett dessert, Fannie May also offers a “Chicago Popcorn, 26 W. Randolph St., has been a Collection”—a series of items in cityChicago staple since 1949 when the first themed packaging, such as a pound of shop opened at 10 W. Madison St. mini-Pixie chocolates in a Chicago LakeGarrett’s pops their signature blend of
Giordano’s bright red bags are thermal insulated, and most importantly, are carry-on size. All pizzas will fit perfectly in an airplane’s overhead compartment (above left). Chicago-themed tins for popcorn at Garrett Popcorn Shop on West Randolph Street (above right). “Save Ferris” shirts are popular at the My Chicago gift shop, 28 S. Michigan Ave. Photos by Taylor Hartz
front-decorated tin for $29.95. Whether you’re looking to ship your friends and family some iconic Chicago treats or point visitors in the right direction for the best souvenirs, New Eastside
is a one-stop shop for cheesy pizza lovers, novelty t-shirt collectors, snow globe enthusiasts, sweet tooth strawberry seekers and popcorn connoisseurs.
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Q&A—New Eastsiders out at the ballgame By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer Cubs and White Sox fans don’t have to wait any longer—baseball season is here. Chicago is full of die-hard baseball fans who either bleed Cubbie blue or wear all black. We talked to three locals to get the lowdown on how to tackle baseball season like a pro. New Eastsider Lisa Aggarwal grew up on the southwest side of Chicago, and has been a White Sox fan for 35 years. Kim Pearlman and Ali Schultz root for the Cubs, and both attended a World Series home game in 2016. What’s a typical game day experience at the ballpark like for you? Aggarwal: Eating a hot dog, or even better—a taco! And sitting in the sun. Pearlman: Always Bud Light. Schultz: Some of my favorite games are on random weekday nights in the summer. I’ll work most of the day, leave a little early and unwind on a warm night with a cold beer and a gorgeous sunset dropping below the horizon on Clark Street. How do you get to the ball field? Aggarwal: The Red Line or I park in the
stadium lot. Pearlman: When I was a kid, my grandfather and I would take the Addison bus from the west side and get Brown’s Chicken to-go so we could get to our seats in time for batting practice. Schultz: The Red Line. It’s cheaper, easier than managing traffic and better than trying to park near the field.
experienced something similar for over 100 years.
What do you wear on game day? Aggarwal: Black Pearlman: Cubs T-shirt—Rizzo or Bryant—and camo shorts. Cubs hat. It’s my uniform. Schultz: Sunscreen! And make sure to put it on beforehand. Security will confiscate it.
What advice would you share with fans? Aggarwal: There’s not much of a scene outside the [White Sox] park, so be prepared to spend more time inside the stadium. Try an adult snow cone, bacon on a stick—or both. Pearlman: If there is a game on my birthday, I go to it. Schultz: Sit in the bleachers and get there at least two hours before. You’ll see warm ups and batting practice before the game set to that beautiful organ music. The bleachers are also where I see the most fan interaction. Who doesn’t like a high five on a Kris Bryant home run?
What’s the best part of being at a home game? Aggarwal: The majority of the fans are actively watching the game instead of just socializing. The food options are really good too. Pearlman: Wrigley Field is my happy place. Schultz: The energy you get from being around the other fans. And the sense of history and how many generations have
We wish our Chicago major league baseball teams the best of luck this year. The White Sox home opener against the Detroit Tigers at Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St. is set for Thursday, April 5 at 3:10 p.m. The Cubs will open their season at Wrigley Field on Monday, April 9 at 1:20 p.m. against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Visit Mlb.com/cubs or Mlb.com/whitesox to purchase single game tickets or to learn more about upcoming seasons.
Rain, rain, you’re okay
New and high tech ways to fight April showers gift and said he hasn’t “stopped hearing about how often it’s saved the day.” While umbrellas are the key to staying Spring often arrives with downpours. dry while walking in the city, once a desThe flowers and plants are thankful, but for tination is reached, a battle with your umChicagoans, staying warm and dry during brella often ensues as you attempt to close a spring deluge is a feat. Luckily for us, the contraption without getting soaked. there have been advancements in the field Even once you get it shut, the closed of rain determent this year. Here are some umbrella can leave a wet mess indoors. new products to protect yourself and your With the BetterBrella, the umbrella closes belongings as April showers commence. upwards in a cone shape to close swiftly Getting caught in a torrential downand collect water within. pour can be an unwelcome surprise when The ultimate waterproof rain jacket, carrying a leather or suede bag, but the Arc’teryx, is highly technical. Arc’teryx’s Handbag Raincoat is here to save your Gore-Tex textile is made to be impermepurse from being ruined by rain. Available able, windproof, and breathable. Although in different sizes, the raincoat cover for Arc’teryx’s jackets are mostly made for your purse folds easily into a pouch and those going on outdoor adventures, they fits nicely inside your purse. New Eastside do carry a lifestyle collection, which is resident Anthony Ivone bought one as a geared toward city dwellers. Arc’teryx feaBy Stephanie Racine Staff Writer
BetterBrella umbrellas close upward instead of downward. Courtesy of buybetterbrella.com
tures a rainproof coat for city bike riders that protects from the elements, but is also appropriate for office wear. To check out all the outdoor gear Arc’teryx has to offer, stop by their boutique located at 1630 N. Damen St. in Wicker Park. Items are also sold online. The Handbag Raincoat and BetterBrella items can be purchased on the company websites, or ordered from amazon.com.
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Nation’s first Halal Lifestyle Expo at Navy Pier By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer “I Heart Halal,” the first Halal lifestyle festival in America, is coming to Navy Pier for three days in April. The event will feature food, fashion, entertainment and more, offering festival-goers a chance to learn, experience and see for themselves how everyone can embrace a modern Halal lifestyle. The term “Halal” means “permissible” in Arabic and generally indicates what followers of Islam are allowed to eat and consume. But to many, the meaning can be expanded to incorporate much more, such as what is nutritious, wholesome and healthy in the context of a lifestyle reflecting values, style and beliefs. The “I Heart Halal” expo will feature a “Taste of Halal” food hall showcasing not only traditional Halal restaurants, but also restaurants trying out Halal for the weekend. The festival will also feature a fashion show, celebrity speakers, concerts, comedy shows, information seminars, a Kids Zone and cooking demonstrations. Additionally, a Grand Bazaar of merchants will offer Halal products in beauty, fashion, health and wellness and more. Headlining experts and entertainers include CoverGirl’s first hijabi Beauty Ambassador, Nura Afia, who will lead two fashion shows, comic Mo Amer, who has been seen on HBO and Late Night with Stephen Colbert, and Chef Demetrios Haralambatos of Kontos Foods, a top Halal culinary expert. The inaugural event will be produced by the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA), and The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Illinois is a proud partner of the festival. Over 20,000 attendees are expected to eat, shop and learn more about how Halal options can be easily integrated into modern lifestyles. The expo will take place from April 13–15 in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. For more information and to purchase general admission tickets, visit ihearthalal.com
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Taming the toys—tips for keeping toys organized By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer The daunting challenge of organizing toys and keeping kids’ possessions neat has plagued family apartment dwellers for ages. How can you prevail over toys perpetually decorating your living room floor without forfeiting your sanity? Kathryn Cherne is the Founder of Design Inside, a local Chicago interior design company. Cherne not only professionally advises clients on how to best organize and decorate their homes, but also personally manages copious amounts of kids’ stuff herself. As the mother of five-year-old twins, she knows it is a challenge. One thing Cherne supports is regular downsizing, and getting the kids involved in the action. “After the holidays or a birthday, we take a laundry basket per kid and tell them to fill it,” she said. “If your child is five and still has toddler toys, pass them on.” Making regular donations is also a great way to keep on top of the ever-growing piles, and teaches children important decision-making skills about what to keep, donate or toss. Cherne also offers advice on how to create a “toy space” if your apartment does not have a designated playroom. “I’ll use a piece of storage furniture that doubles as a play table behind a sofa, place a play rug in the area and create a play zone that is out of the line of vision,” she explained. “You can also get some book shelves with closed doors and fill them with toys.” Families with children of multiple
ages often struggle with how to handle baby toys, toddler toys and big kid items. “Try giving each kid their own toy zone,” Cherne said. “Use the space under their beds for storage of toys and books.” Closets are also great for this task, especially if there are shelves at kid-accessible heights. New Eastside resident Anna Williams knows this toy tidying is a challenge as well. With three children under the age of six, she has to be creative when it comes to toy control. “My biggest thing is keeping the kids’ stuff out of the common living areas, so all the children’s toys and gear stays in their own rooms.” Williams admits although this idea is brilliant in theory, many toys wind up all around the apartment during the day. Her strategy is to take advantage of the open shelving in their bedrooms, storage containers, and clear bins to give each toy a home, making clean-up easier. “This way I can finally catch my breath after bedtime, and I’m not staring at bouncy chairs and paw patrol trucks,” she said. Though living in a small space with children presents storage challenges, there is a silver lining. “Every time I think about moving to the suburbs, I remember that I can realistically tidy up my whole condo in under an hour.” Williams said. If you’re considering seeking professional help to master the art of toy organization, Design Inside offers a wide range of solutions. Visit www.designinside.com or call (773) 304-4133 for more information.
Anna Williams’ two older children, ages six and three, proudly show off their efforts to keep their toy collection neat and orderly. Photo courtesy of Anna Williams
Simple steps for toy organization 1. Collect all the toys that you own—this means dumping every toy in your possession on the floor in the middle of the room. Now you can see how many items you have.
2. Sort though the toys and place them in one of three piles: keep, donate or toss.
3. Store the toys you decide to keep buy using clear bins so children can see what’s inside, or use baskets for toys with many pieces.
4. Find a semi-permanent home for the bins and baskets. Store them on shelves, in closets or under beds. This streamlines the daily clean-up process.
5. Periodically rotate the toys that are in active use. This way, old toys will seem like new.
Columbus Drive bridge closed for repairs By Taylor Hartz Staff Writer Repairs are underway to clean up and improve the Columbus Drive bridge, closing the bridge to pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic for most of the month. On March 26, the Chicago Department of Transportation began a project to repair the roadway and sidewalks on the bridge. Crews will be replacing the sidewalk grating, sidewalk stringers and the cen-
ter breaks in the roadway, according to a notice from Ald. Brendan Reilly. In a statement last month, Ald. Reilly called the repairs “much needed.” While the project is underway, the bridge will be closed Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but will be open during rush hour to accommodate traffic. The first phase of the project will involve replacing the center breaks on the roadway. The bridge will be closed until this part of the project wraps up at the end of April,
said Reilly. To avoid the closed bridge, northbound traffic is redirected from Columbus Dr. to Lower Wacker Dr. and towards Lake Shore Dr. to Grand Ave. which then reconnects with Columbus Dr. Southbound traffic is rerouted to take Columbus Dr. to Illinois St., then Lake Shore Dr., to Lower Wacker Dr. which reconnects to Columbus Dr. The entire project is expected to continue until October.
Columbus St. bridge will be closed 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays until April 21. Photo courtesy by Stephanie Racine
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Events Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. April 3
Poets of the Podium Learn about the art of speech writing from Funny or Die writer David Litt, Boston University professor William Fairfield Warren and former presidential speech writers Mary Kate Cary and Robert Pinsky. 6:30–7:30 p.m., free, Chicago Council on Global Affairs Conference Center, 130 E. Randolph Ave., (312) 7263860, register at thechicagocouncil.org
April 5 World Cup book release + Meet & Greet Meet author and New Eastside resident Shane Stay at the release of his new book World Cup 2018 Book: Everything You Need To Know About The Soccer World Cup. Food and drinks will be provided at this casual meet and greet, and the first five guests will receive a free copy of the book. Stay’s other books include Why American Soccer Isn’t There Yet and The Cairo Project. 6–8 p.m., free, The Coast at Lakeshore East (second floor lounge), 345 E. Wacker Dr., shanestay.com LSF Masters Tournament Viewing Party Celebrate the 2018 Masters Tournament at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness and participate in the Long Drive Competition. Take a swing at raffles and prizes while enjoying live coverage of rounds one and two and food and beverage specials at Press Kitchen. On April 6, take part in the Closest to the Pin competition. Guests are welcome. Live TV coverage shown 2:00–7:30 p.m., free, Lakeshore Sports & Fitness—Illinois Center, 211 N. Stetson Ave., (312) 856-1111, for more details contact icevents@LakeshoreSF.com Cardio Yoga at Navy Pier Designed to infuse fundamental yoga positions with low-impact cardio exercises, this free class is led by experienced instructor Julia Perkins. The Cardio Yoga class can be modified for yogis of all levels making it the perfect addition to a workout regimen. 7–8 a.m., free, Polk
Bros Park, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7473, navypier.org Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe Conductor Matthias Pintscher makes his debut at the CSO podium in this all-Ravel program, rarely performed in its entirety. Daphnis and Chloe includes Ravel’s orchestration of Debussy’s “Sarabande and Danse,” as well as Ravel’s own, powerfully dark “Piano Concerto for the Left Hand.” 8 p.m., $37–217, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 2943000, cso.org
April 6
C2E2 Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants creator Tom Kenny—appearing in Chicago at the C2E2 comic and entertainment convention with many other pop culture celebrities, such as Goosebumps author R. L. Stein, Marvel comic book artist Mark Brooks and Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death author Amy Chu. Continues until April 8, 10 a.m.–10 p.m., $30.75 (pre-show price) or $40.75 at the door, McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Dr., (312) 791-7000, c2e2.com 22nd Annual Asian American Showcase This two-week showcase creates a new platform for work by established and emerging Asian-American filmmakers. Presented by the Gene Siskel Film Center and the Foundation for Asian-American Independent Media, the lineup features an appearance from Joyce Wong, director of the drama Wexford Plaza, on April 6, as well as the co-directors of Light—renowned jazz artist Tatsu Aoki and dancer/choreographer Lonora Lee—performing live on April 8. Continues until April 18, Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., (312) 846-2800, siskelfilmcenter.org Mind Over Mirrors presents Bellowing Sun Mind Over Mirrors—a stage name of Chicago music producer Jaime Fennelly—will perform Bellowing Sun, a piece that creates a prism for the ear by layering acoustic instruments with elec-
tric ones. Taking place on the same day as Bellowing Sun’s recording release date, this premier performance will feature vocalist and percussionist Janet Beveridge Bean, violinist Jim Becker and percussionist Jon Mueller alongside Fennelly. Also on April 7. 7:30 p.m, $30 ($24 for members, $10 for students), Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., mcachicago.org
April 7
Science Fiction to Fact In a long-running partnership with NASA, the Museum of Science and Industry presents its annual Inventive Genius lecture. This year’s lecture features two NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NAIC) fellows who draw inspiration from art and science fiction to power humans’ flight into space. 11 a.m., $19.95 ($10.95 for children ages 3–11 and free for members), Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., (773) 684-1414, save $2 per person on tickets by ordering online at msichicago.org Marshmello at Navy Pier Electronic dance music producer Christopher Comstock, known onstage as Marshmello, brings his bassy sounds to Navy Pier for a one-night only, 18+ performance. This emerging artist has already hit number 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 with his own song, “Alone,” as well as remixed songs by prominent names like Jack U and Zedd. 6–11 p.m., $42.50–45, Festival Hall at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7473, navypier.org World Health Run Are you relentless, indomitable, spunky or gritty? This worldwide running event invites Chicagoans to join runners from more than 300 other cities in celebrating World Health Day. Online registration ends at 6 p.m. April 6, so run to registration while you can. $32.50 (1 mile) or $37.50 (5K), 8:30 a.m., South Fieldhouse, 1650 N. Stockton Dr., localraces.com/ worldhealthrun Family Day at the Lyric Opera House Enjoy a day of behind-the-scenes fun with your whole clan at the Lyric Opera’s Fam-
April 11
Climbing Wall Reopens Downtown Chicago is not only home to sidewalks and skyscrapers, but also to large rocks and boulders for adventurers to climb, when Maggie Daley’s Climbing Wall reopens this spring. All first-time climbers must complete a certification course and returning climbers must either do the same or pass a belay check. The course prices, listed below, include equipment such as a harness, helmet and shoes. 11 a.m.–7 p.m., $10 (Bouldering Course) or $19 (Top Rope Climbing Course), Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St., maggiedaleypark.com
Photo courtesy of Maggiedaleypark.com
April 12
CAPS Meeting (Beat 114) New Eastside residents are invited to meet with local beat police to discuss issues in the community. CAPS meetings help establish a connection between police, business owners, community leaders and residents. 6:30 p.m., 130 N. Garland Ct., (312) 745-4381 Lakeshore East Book Club The Lakeshore East book club reads an assortment of books with participants volunteering to lead book discussions each month. Join your neighbors in a casual discussion of the book The Remains of the Day by Kazuro Ishiguro. Everyone is welcome. 6–7 p.m., free, The Tides, 360 E. South Water St. 16th floor, please direct inquiries to Vanessa Casciano at vcasicano@magellandevelopment.com
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ily Day. Entry includes exclusive access to the Opera House’s backstage areas (like the orchestra pit, costume department and props area) and a short, live performance. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., $10 ($5 for children), Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Dr., (312) 827-5600, lyricopera.org
April 14
Rebecca Kilgore Quartet at Winter’s Jazz Club “When Rebecca sings, the sun comes out.” These words from jazz composer Dave Frishberg praise Rebecca Kilgore, known for her swinging melodies and familiarity with the American Songbook. Credited with more than 50 recordings— mostly on the Arbors Records label—and knowledge of 1,000+ songs, Kilgore is sure to dazzle with both talent and variety during her double performance in New Eastside. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. (75 minutes per set), $25 ($30 for VIP seating) with a drink minimum of $10 per set, Winter’s Jazz Club, 465 N. McClurg Ct., (312) 344-1270, wintersjazzclub.com
April 16
Bright Horizons Open House Take a look inside the welcoming classrooms of Bright Horizons early education center to experience its teachers and innovative curriculum. See how Bright Horizons can make your child feel at home. Continues until April 20, 10–11 a.m., free, Bright Horizons at Lakeshore East, 360 E. South Water St., (312) 565-7300, brighthorizons.com/ lakeshoreeast
April 20
Science Snoozeum at Museum of Science and Industry Take advantage of a rare opportunity—explore the Museum of Science and Industry after dark! Browse the exhibits at your own pace, participate in a scavenger hunt and then fall asleep next to a giant heart or a toy-making factory. 5:30 p.m.–8:30 a.m., $19.95 ($10.95 for children ages 3–11 and free for members), Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., (773) 684-1414, save $2 per person on tickets by ordering online at msichicago.org
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April 21
GEMS Global Design Challenge In part of a large-scale effort to encourage young people to ignite positive change in the world, GEMS World Academy will host a Global Design Challenge. Students work with mentors to create a product that can better the world and compete for more than $15,000 in prizes and resources. As of April 1, registration is closed to students, but mentors are wanted! Continues on April 22, GEMS World Academy, 350 E. South Water St., (312) 809-8900, globaldesignchallenge.com Volunteer to Clean and Green Volunteer to participate in Chicago’s citywide Clean and Green effort! Call 3-1-1 to register your community group or find a community group to team up with. The city will provide the tools needed to get the job done that can be picked up at your local Streets and Sanitation Refuse Division Office. All community groups must register their Clean and Green event by April 16, 351 E. Lower Randolph St. (for 42nd Ward), cityofchicago.org
April 22
Earth Day 2018 Earthfest: A Conversation Among Earthlings Celebrate Earth Day at the Adler Planetarium, where Earthlings any age can hear from innovative minds, celebrate the planet they call home and learn how to protect it for the future. 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m., $12 (adults) and $8 (ages 3–11), Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org
Image courtesy of Adlerplanetarium.org
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April 25
Macbeth at Navy Pier The creators behind the Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s sold-out performances of The Tempest reunite for a new, enchanted take on the infamous play. Dive into the psyches of Macbeth and his Lady in Shakespeare’s seductively twisted tale of magic, witches and dark moors. 7:30 p.m., $48, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 5957473, navypier.org A Midsummer Night’s Dream – The Joffrey Ballet The Joffrey Ballet closes its 2017-18 season with the North American Premiere of Midsummer Night’s Dream by internationally renowned Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman. A full-length contemporary ballet vastly different from Shakespeare’s tale, this fully immersive theatrical experience pays homage to the summer solstice and the Scandinavian Midsummer holiday. April 25-May 6. Tickets $34-$177, Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy, (312) 386-8905, joffrey.org
April 26
Saks Fifth Avenue Fashion Show in Lakeshore East Fashion, wine and hors d’oeuvres meet at this fashion show, taking place in the Vista Sales Gallery. See the best of Saks fashion right here in Chicago. Valet parking available. 6–8 p.m., $100 (general admission) or $175 (VIP), Vista Sales Gallery, 345 E. Upper Wacker Dr. #100, saksfifthavenue.com
April 27
Jesus Christ Superstar at Civic Opera House Witness the rock opera that reinvented musical theater for the modern age. Told from the perspective of Judas Iscariot, the play recounts the final days of Jesus Christ with the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. Watch Judas makes his infamous choice between faith and betrayal to the soundscape of gospel, folk and 1970s rock. Also April 28 at 7:00 p.m. and April 29 at 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker
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Dr. (312) 827-5600, for the full schedule, visit lyricopera.org
April 29
Family Workshop: Beginning Birding at the Lurie Garden Spotting and identifying birds is a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors. Come learn which birds you are likely to see, good spots to visit, spotting techniques and more. Weather and time permitting, participants will take a trip to practice using binoculars in Lurie Garden. Binoculars will be available on a first come, first served basis. 1–3, p.m., free, Southeast end of Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 228-1004, register for this program at luriegarden.org
APRIL RACES Chi Town Half Marathon, 13.1 miles, 10K, Saturday, April 7, 7 a.m., Montrose Harbor, 601 W. Montrose Dr. World Health Run, 1 mile, 5K, Saturday, April 7, 8:30 a.m., South Fieldhouse, 1650 N. Stockton Dr. AACR Runners for Research, 5K run/ walk, Saturday, April 14, 7:30 a.m., McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. 19th Annual Chicago Lakefront 50K George Cheung Memorial Race 50K, Saturday, April 14, 7:30 a.m., Jackson Park Grove 19A, 5700 E. Hayes Dr. Lakefront 10 Miler, 10 miles, 5K, Saturday, April 21, 9 a.m., Montrose Beach, 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr. Walk & Roll Chicago, 5K, Saturday, April 21, 8:30 a.m., Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr. Breakthrough for Brain Tumors, 5K, Sunday, April 22, 9:30 a.m., Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr. Race Against Extinction, 5K, kids run, Sunday, April 22, 10 a.m., Lincoln Park, 2430 N. Cannon Dr. Ravenswood Run, 5K, kids run, Sunday, April 29, 9 a.m., Wilson & Hermitage Aves.
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