VOL. 6 NO. 7
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August 2018
New Eastsiders have a hoot with Wings and Talons Bird rescue group shows off ‘nature’s fighter jets’
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Who says New Eastside’s not a real neighborhood?
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Meet the new GEMS head of school Page 4
GPAC to get new board Page 3 Page 8 A barred owl at Lurie Garden’s “Raptors!” educational event stands on a volunteer’s arm. The event will return Aug 14. Photo by Taylor Hartz
Shopping carts wreak havoc at condos
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The deadliest catch in the Chicago River
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Is it OK to touch? A New Yorker learns Chicago pizza rules Page 6
Best of Mag Mile street performers
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Shopping carts wreak havoc at condos How to Contact Us
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Editor: Elaine Hyde elaineh@neweastsidecommunity.com Staff Writers: Tom Conroy Elizabeth Czapski Angela Gagnon Taylor Hartz Jesse Wright Copy Editors: Ben Kowalski Vivien Lee Layout/Design: Mark Coleman Community Contributors: Jon Cohn New Eastside News is published monthly 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 ©2018. All rights reserved.
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By Jesse Wright Staff Writer The carts keep coming. And, at the Tides, that’s a problem. On any given day, New Eastside residents leave as many as 10 to 15 empty Mariano’s shopping carts outside the door of the 360 E. South Water St. apartment building, according to Tides doorman John King. “They have them all over the place, making the place look cheap,” King said. King isn’t alone in his criticism. “I’ve seen them accumulated outside our building—it just looks horrible, to be honest,” said Tina Moutzouros, the assistant business manager at the Tides. Some residents want to take the carts even further. “Sometimes they want to bring the whole cart upstairs as well, which is definitely not acceptable,” she said. “We have our own carts and if they need help they can ask for them.” Moutzouros said the Tides’ sister building, the Shoreham, has the same problem. The two buildings sit opposite Mariano’s, separated by Lake Shore East Park, an easy distance on foot. “It’s a convenience for residents,” Moutzouros said. “But if they take them they should be taking them back, which isn’t happening.” While Mariano’s displays signs asking
Shopping carts abandoned outside the Tides building, 360 E. South Water St. Building staff say that the local grocery store is slow to retrieve them and that residents should not take carts back to their apartments. Photo by Stephanie Racine
customers to keep the carts on site, shoppers of the Lakeshore East location seem to ignore the signs. Moutzouros said the Tides does not have a policy explicitly banning carts from the front of the building, but she wants the grocery store to send its employees to collect the carts more often. Amanda Puck, a spokesperson for Mariano’s, said the store is willing to help out and the store has given phone numbers to all the door people at nearby apartments.“We love being part of the community and we try to be proactive in getting the carts back to the
Best View Photo Contest Is your view lookin’ good? Show it off and you could win a Mariano’s gift card for $25! Submit photos from your balcony to New Eastside News at info@ neweastsidecommunity.com for a chance to win a gift card and to appear in the New Eastside September issue. Good luck and good looking!
store,” Puck said. “If anyone needs us to do that, they are welcome to give us a call.” Puck explained that during slow hours, stores will send employees out to retrieve carts, even the ones left in front of apartments. But Moutzouros said this isn’t happening as often as it needs to. “Craig, one of our concierges, he has been in contact with one of the managers. He said he was sending somebody from Mariano’s to go around and collect the carts,” she said. “But it doesn’t seem to be happening as often as it should.”
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No walk in the park: GPAC meeting heats up By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Those hoping to find out why former Grant Park Advisory Council (GPAC) President Bob O’Neill was suspended from the board earlier this year didn’t find out at the recent GPAC meeting, hosted by the Chicago Park District July 10. A lawyer for the Chicago Park District refused to talk about O’Neill, who was not in attendance, except to say he is threatening a lawsuit. “The party is represented by counsel and they are considering litigation,” said Park District attorney Dorothy Carroll. GPAC is a public body, consisting of a group of elected officials overseeing the park. The group helps determine infrastructure initiatives and programing in Grant Park. O’Neill told New Eastside News he began serving as president of GPAC around 1998, but Carroll made it
clear at the meeting that as far as the Park District is concerned, he is history. Carroll said GPAC would survive without O’Neill. The Chicago Park District plans to hold public elections to elect a new president and council later this fall. “Bob [O’Neill] isn’t the council. The president is not the council,” she said. When reached by phone, O’Neill said he isn’t going anywhere just yet and claims the park council is violating the GPAC bylaws by seizing de facto power. He and other GPAC members had already held a meeting July 9 at a South Loop condo, attended by about 30 people. They plan to convene another meeting in early August and to eventually hold their own election. “I am still the president,” O’Neill insisted in an interview. “They came and said I was removed from GPAC. Well, that violates our bylaws and our guidelines.” O’Neill said the ostensible reasons for
Bob Ziegler, left, attempts to address the audience at the GPAC meeting while Chicago Park District attorney Dorothy Carroll tells him to sit down. Photo by Jesse Wright
his ouster—a lack of insurance for a roller hockey program—were made up. He said he had insurance and offered proof several times to the park district, and alleges they ignored it. O’Neill blames a small group of people who strongly opposed his work as the culprits who caused his suspension, though he did not name them. O’Neill’s GPAC had at least one defender from another park advisory council. At
the July 10 meeting in the Maggie Daley Fieldhouse, Bob Ziegler, a board member of the Lincoln Park Advisory Council, also said he believes the Park District ignored GPAC bylaws. Carroll repeated that the park district had the law on its side. This didn’t satisfy Ziegler, who at one point walked in front of the Park District’s Turn to GPAC, Page 13
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Meet the new head of GEMS school native of Massachusetts, said he enjoys living in the city and the school’s proximity to everything in New Eastside. He has Tom Cangiano began in July as the two children in high school and a third newest head of school for GEMS World in college. Academy Chicago. Cangiano has lived overseas, teaching in Cangiano is the fourth head since the Budapest and serving as the president of school opened in September 2014, but said the American College of Sofia in Bulgarhe will stay a while. “I don’t take a job if ia. He said his international experience I’m not completely committed to it,” said fits with GEMS and its global network of Cangiano, who has over 25 years of comschools as well as its International Baccabined experience as an educator and leader. laureate curriculum. “It is crucial to have leadership stability “GEMS’ genuine commitment to global at a newer school and the only way to get citizenship attracted me,” he explained. things done is to stay long-term.” “The school is both inward and outward Prior to arriving at GEMS, Cangiano looking, as we encourage students to unled the Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh derstand what is going on not just around for eight years. That experience will serve the world, but also here in Chicago.” him well as GEMS prepares to add more He added that the school teaches stuhigh school classes and new facilities in its dents to explore and research Chicago. Upper School building by the 2019–2020 “The history person in me comes out when academic year. I encourage the kids to be part of the comCangiano said he and his wife were munity so they can understand the context of what they are learning,” said Cangiano, happy to move to Chicago. Cangiano, a By Tom Conroy Staff Writer
who has a background in the humanities. Cangiano added that he hopes to strengthen the school’s global network. He recently attended strategic planning meetings in Dubai and hopes to increase the number of joint service programs and exchanges, allowing students to collaborate with their peers at other GEMS schools. Domestically, he will work toward growing enrollment to 100 students per grade level for a total enrolment of 1,500 students. GEMS World Academy Chicago 350 E. South Water St. Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 809-8900 gemsworldacademy-chicago.com
Tom Cangiano. Photo courtesy GEMS World Academy Chicago
“The school is both inward and outward looking, as we encourage students to understand what is going on not just around the world, but also here in Chicago.” – Tom Cangiano
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Dogs seeking a ‘furever’ home in New Eastside area By Urban Real Estate Join Urban Real Estate for its first-ever Urban Furever Home Pet Adoption event, with partner One Tail At A Time Dog Rescue, a no-kill, all-breed dog rescue. On Aug. 26, from 1–3 p.m. the New Eastside real estate brokerage will be hosting the event on the first floor of its office at 400 E. Randolph St. “With our business focused on human clients, we thought we should take the opportunity to welcome some new fourlegged neighbors to our great community—dogs who need help finding their ‘furever’ home,” said Michael Emery, senior partner at Urban Real Estate. “We are proud to embark on this endeavor with One Tail At A Time, rescuing more than 550 dogs a year from Chicago and across the country.” The Bucktown-based dog rescue offers vaccine clinics and supports the Chicago-
land Rescue and Intervention Support Program shelter diversion program. They are also working on a soon-to-be implemented isolation clinic for dogs who need special care, offering bustling adoption and foster programs. Jennifer Rogers, adoption counselor with One Tail At A Time, relies on the dedication of the group’s volunteers, and foster and adoption families to help bring these dogs to Chicago’s best homes. Serious adoption applicants can pre-apply at OneTail.org prior to the event, or visit its Bucktown location during business hours. “Neighbors can plan on coming to the Urban event to meet a few of the dogs that we will have available for adoption, as well as learn more about how to get involved,” Rogers said. The Urban event will include prizes, surprises, and refreshments for adults and the four-legged neighbors.
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The deadliest catch Can you eat Chicago river fish? By Elizabeth Czapski Staff Writer With summer comes fishing and in the Chicago River, the fish are biting. But should people be eating them? Well, it depends on the type of fish. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, fish in Illinois waterways can be contaminated with several chemicals, but in the Chicago River, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are the most common contaminant. This group of manmade chemicals was used in manufacturing until it was banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1979. PBCs are known as legacy contaminants that stay in the environment for a long
time, according to Dr. Timothy Hoellein, Associate Professor of Biology at Loyola University Chicago. Once an organism consumes these contaminants, the PCBs remain in the tissue of living organisms and can be passed up the food chain to humans. The Department of Public Health’s fish advisory states that there is “no immediate health threat from eating contaminated fish.” The key word there is immediate because long-term low-level exposure may be harmful and could cause developmental problems in children. The Department of Public Health recommends limiting consumption of certain species. Channel catfish that are 18 inches or longer should be limited to once per
A local fisherman holds up a carp caught in February of 2017. Photo courtesy Marcin & Henryk Carp Fishing Tournament Team
month. For largemouth bass and sunfish of all sizes, the recommendation is one meal per week. Common carp smaller than 12 inches should be limited to six meals per year, and carp longer than 12 inches should not be eaten at all. All of these species are contaminated with PCBs. According to Melaney Arnold, public
information officer at the Illinois Department of Public Health, the larger the fish, the longer it has been consuming contaminants, which leads to a higher build-up of chemicals in the fish. The bottom line is, just because you’re hooked on fishing, don’t get hooked on eating everything you catch.
Is it OK to touch? A New Yorker learns Chicago pizza rules By Tom Conroy Staff Writer To fork or not to fork? As a native New Yorker, I always struggle with the moral conundrum of whether or not I should be eating deep dish with my hands or using a knife and fork. Am I legally allowed to pick up a slice of deep dish pizza? Am I allowed to fold it? When in Chicago, I want to do as the Chicagoans do, so I went straight to the source. The legendary Giordano’s Pizzeria, which has more than 40 locations in the Chicago area, provides a breakdown of Giordano’s famous stuffed deep dish pizza. Photo courtesty of Jona Park/Flickr pizza-eating styles on their website and what that says about your personality. method for deep dish pizza as indicative of said Holness, a Los Angeles native who has Their analysis of the fold-it-over-and-eat-it a patient person who savors the meal. I’m been with Giordano’s since 2016. “I would method says that you are an efficient and usually at a savage level of hunger when recommend waiting for it to cool down a clean eater who multitasks at a fast pace. preparing to eat pizza, so I have no time for little bit before you go to pick it up.” As a native New Yorker who works in such formalities. I knew I could count on a fellow transmedia, I could not agree with this more— Brennan Holness, the restaurant manag- plant from one of the coasts to guide me standing in a crowded pizzeria in Manhat- er at the Giordano’s near Millennium Park, in the right direction. Holness seemed tan with no seating while wolfing down a 130 E. Randolph St., assuaged my fears perplexed by my use of the term “pie” couple of slices can only be accomplished when I asked about the proper way to eat to describe a pizza, but was not judgwith this method. their famous deep dish pizza.“You can do mental toward my East Coast lingo. He whatever you feel most comfortable doing,” recommended either a Giordano’s Special The site describes the knife-and-fork
(sausage, mushrooms, green peppers and onions) or a Chicago Classic (the same, but with pepperoni instead of sausage), so I guess I’m ordering one of each when I go. Maybe I can find someone to share them with me first. While learning about the some of the more prominent deep dish destinations in the city, I was intrigued by their histories and their connections to each other. For instance, Lou Malnati, whose restaurant now sits at 439 N. Wells St., originally worked at Pizzeria Uno, 29 E. Ohio St. It calls to mind the history of New York pizza—how Grimaldi’s and Juliana’s came from Patsy’s, while Totonno’s came from Lombardi’s, which is considered to be New York’s first pizzeria. Giordano’s was founded by brothers Efren and Joseph Buglio in 1974, when they perfected their Mama Giordano’s Easter Pie into their famous so-called stuffed pizza, an even deeper variation of the traditional deep dish. Now I have all the tools necessary to assimilate myself to the Windy City. I didn’t want people looking at me like the outsider I am—I just want to eat some pizza.
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Singing for their supper: Best of Mag Mile street performers
Kenneth Stringer III strikes a pose as Chicago’s Original Tin Man. Photo by Elizabeth Czapski
By Elizabeth Czapski Staff Writer One of the most exciting parts of the Michigan Avenue experience is its street performers. Whether they’re playing music, miming or doing magic tricks, the street’s “buskers,” as they’re called, strive to astound, surprise and entertain—and make a little money doing it. To find out more about this interesting career, we talked to three of the best. Jonathan Fin has been a musician for about 10 years, and a few years ago, he took his talents to the streets. On a Thursday in late July, he stood in the plaza in front of the Apple Store, 401 N. Michigan Ave., with an electric guitar strapped to his body, surrounded by sound equipment and signs that read, “Karaoke - Sing Your Song!” and “Please Help Me Feed My Kitties.” Fin, 42, said his original songs are “singer-songwriter stuff,” but when he’s busking he plays a lot of covers and, like his sign advertises, does karaoke.“I let people sing whatever song that they wanna sing, and I pull it up on my YouTube and try to play along with it while they sing,” he said. The number of people who brave the microphone varies every day, he said.
“Sometimes there’s 10–15 people that do it, sometimes there’s none.” Fin got his start as a street performer when he was hired by TC-Helicon, an audio company, to make videos where people could test out the company’s vocal effects equipment.“I got a street performer’s license so I could film those videos, and I haven’t stopped playing outside since, ‘cause it’s just so much fun,” Fin said. Kenneth Stringer III, known as “The Original Chicago Tin Man,” does another kind of street performance. Wearing a suit, hat and sunglasses with his body painted entirely silver, Stringer was stationed in front of the AT&T store at Michigan Avenue and Ontario Street on a busy summer Saturday. The speaker he stood on top of blasted music, and sometimes Stringer would break his statuesque stillness, only to whip out a couple of dance moves. His sign read, “The Greatest Mime of All Time.” Stringer said he’s been doing this since 2002. “I was working job after job after job, and I was always making money, but the guy that was above me was always making more,” he said. Stringer decided to try out street performing, and it paid more Turn to Singing, Page 13
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Shedd attraction looks at beauty below the surface of mollusks are threatened in the wild and have a conservation status of vulnerable, meaning even if one were to go diving in At the height of summer, Chicago is their native habitat in Indonesia, there filled with beauty, whether it is found would be no guarantee of spotting one. amid the rolling green lawns of Maggie At the Shedd Aquarium, however, Daley Park, along the Riverwalk or within visitors can now see these species, and the walls of the Art Institute. But there more, close up in the Underwater Beauty is also beauty below the surface, and the exhibit. Perhaps the best time to go is Aug. Shedd Aquarium’s new exhibit, Underwa18, because from 7 p.m. to midnight, the ter Beauty, offers the best of those hidden aquarium will host their 12th annual BLU attractions. fundraiser in celebration of the UnderwaThe new display offers a variety of beauter Beauty display. tiful shrimp, giant clams and fish unlikely This year’s event, BLU: Behold the Beauto be seen anywhere else in Chicago. ty, will be held among the tanks, meaning Among the sights are peacock mantis guests can eat, drink and mingle with shrimp, a crustacean so powerful that its some of the most interesting fish anywhere hammer claw can bring water to a boil and in the world. According to a press release, break glass one-inch thick. As the name food will be provided by some of Chicago’s implies, this shrimp combines beauty best restaurants and dancing will be availand brawn, as it boasts a psychedelic shell able on the outdoor terrace with lakeside encasing its large frame. and skyline views. The peacock shrimp isn’t alone in its The general admission tickets, which high shrimp style; the Shedd is also offerinclude drinks, food and special access to ing a look at sexy shrimp, a species noted the Underwater Beauty Exhibit, are $150. for its distinctive bright spots and the fact The VIP tickets are $225 and include early that all of these shrimp are born male and access to the event, access to VIP lounges become female later in life. and access to top-shelf food and cocktails. On the other hand, the orange anthias, Finally, bulk tickets are $1,250—that pays also on display, begins life as a female fish, for 10 regular tickets at $25 off the cost of blazing orange, only for some to change each ticket. sex and color later in life. The Shedd also offers some rare beauty For more information visit sheddaquarium.org/blu-2018 in the form of giant clams. These species By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
This giant clam is one of the one-of-a-kind species on display now at the Shedd Aquarium. The clam and other undersea beauties will be celebrated at this year’s BLU fundraiser. Photo courtesy of the Shedd Aquarium
An eastern screech owl (left) and a female red tailed hawk were on hand to wow crowds at the July “Raptors!” event in Lurie Garden. The group Wings and Talons will return Aug. 14. Photo by Taylor Hartz
Visitors have a hoot with Wings and Talons
visitors about the neighborhood predators. These birds are adapted now for an urban environment, but they did not start For the most part, unless you go out at out that way. night, you’ll miss the raptors on patrol “There are a lot of theories about what downtown, swooping down to catch prey they evolved from,” said volunteer Richright in Chicago’s front yard. tor-Duff. The most common theory is they But, a few times each summer, the team evolved from dinosaurs. at Wings and Talons brings a few rehaA small eastern screech owl sat on a bilitated birds to Lurie Garden for free perch near the group’s information table. daytime shows they call “Raptors!” where This little bird, standing about five inches garden visitors can learn about the habits high, isn’t native to the area, but is nearly of these birds. identical to the western screech owl, which Wings and Talons is a non-profit that can be found throughout Illinois. provides care and shelter for raptors that Lakeshore East Regatta resident Bill can’t survive on their own. The organizaEvans came to check out the birds with his tion, which calls these birds “nature’s fight- 9-year-old daughter, Brielle Evans. Brielle, er jets,” was founded in 2016 by a group of a fourth-grader at Ogden International volunteers who share a passion for educat- School, is a huge fan of owls. She was even ing the public about birds of prey. carrying a colorful owl-shaped purse as Currently they care for a male and she checked out the birds. Bill thought the female red-tailed hawk, an eastern screech display from Wings and Talons was a great owl, a great horned owl, a barred owl, an way to bring nature and wildlife into the American kestrel, a broad-winged hawk heart of the city. and a turkey vulture. In July, Wings and “I think it’s wonderful to have such an Talons brought the male red-tailed hawk, educational thing here in the city,” Evans the eastern screech owl, the barred owl said, “Especially for kids who don’t have and the broad-winged hawk to Lurie Gar- access to the wild; it creates an awareness den and set up shop. for them.” With the skyline towering above, volunWings and Talons will return to the teers stood in a grassy area with the birds Lurie Garden for another session of “Rapperched on their hands, ready to educate tors!” on Aug. 14 from 6–8 p.m. By Taylor Hartz Staff Writer
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Dining out during the dog days of summer provides the perfect decadent element to the dish. The coppa adds a bit of spice, Summer is in full swing in Chicago—the and the pea tendrils and basil vinaigrette bring the dish together with a bright pop of days are long, the temperatures are high, herbiness. and al fresco dining is a must. Whether The Midwest is known for its corn, and wanting to enjoy the season’s freshest ingredients from juicy peaches to sweet corn, the Summer Corn Flatbread really allows or feast on dishes that scream summer like this ingredient to shine. The sweet summer corn is blended with cheese and herbs a seafood boil, Streeterville Social is servto create a slightly sweet and savory base ing some of the city’s best summer dishes. Executive Chef Kevin Atkinson, inspired on the flatbread. It is then topped with smoked fontina, fresh corn, red onion, by the season’s produce and flavors that pickled peach and basil for a unique taste like summer, created a menu best enjoyed on a long summer evening, sipping dish that highlights the sweetness of this Midwestern vegetable. The result is sweet, on a refreshing beverage and enjoying the sweeping city views while delighting in the savory and delectable. For many, summers evoke fond memcompany of friends or a special someone. ories of seafood boils. Chef Atkinson’s The Marinated Peach Salad is bright, rendition is nothing short of spectacular. light and refreshing. This dish combines Designed to be shared by two people, the ripe, fresh, juicy peaches with marinatSeafood Boil combines perfectly cooked ed peaches, providing both a sweet and king crab legs, jumbo shrimp, mussels, hot slightly savory base. The creamy burrata By Kathleen O’Connell Loews Chicago Hotel
SUMMER
The Marinated Peach Salad pulls together sweet and savory flavors for a dish that is perfect for the Chicago summer. Photo courtesy Streeterville Social
links, potatoes, and corn with his homemade streeter spice blend. The streeter spice adds just the right amount of flavor while allowing the ingredients’ natural sweetness to shine through. The grilled bread is the perfect way to soak up the flavorful broth. Whether wanting to savor the season’s
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For new boaters, the Chicago River can run wild 3
4
State St.
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2 N. LaSalle St.
The Chicago River offers numerous opportunities for recreation, but if paddlers and boaters aren’t careful, a day of fun could turn to tragedy. According to James Morro, co-owner of Urban Kayaks and President of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee, water pumps on the river walls are a major hazard new boaters should be wary of. The pumps expel water used to cool the buildings lining the river, especially targeting buildings near State Street and Wabash Avenue. These pumps received attention in June, when the Chicago Tribune reported that Trump International Hotel and Tower failed to document that it followed federal and state environmental regulations intended to limit the number of fish killed by the water intake valves. The building takes in nearly 20 million gallons of river water per day, making it one of the largest users of river water, the Tribune reported. Those intake valves can create turbidity and turn certain sections of the Chicago River into a roiling, dangerous waterway. Another potential problem is created when tour boats dock with their propellers facing against the flow of traffic, pushing water and small boats into the middle of
N. Columbus Dr.
By Elizabeth Czapski Staff Writer
Chicago River danger zones 1. The Chicago Riverwalk Project has revitalized the river, making it more crowded. 2. The pumps at State and Wabash expel water used to cool the buildings lining the river. 3. At DuSable Bridge, water from tour boat propellers pushes small boats into the middle of the river, mimicking the water pumps. 4. Most of Urban Kayak’s capsizes occur at the area between State and Columbus. Line-of-sight issues caused by the bend in the river can also cause problems.
the river. “That can mimic the effect that you get from the water pumps,” Morro said. “This is a particular issue directly underneath DuSable Bridge where the Wendella boats dock.” Morro said this is a “very consistent hazard.” So consistent, in fact, his company
For the most part, kayaking the Chicago River is a fun, relaxing experience, but the water can be dangerous for new and inexperienced paddlers. Photo by Elizabeth Czapski
stations someone underneath the DuSable Bridge on busy days to assist kayakers if they need it. But the problems do not end at the mechanical. Line-of-sight issues can also cause problems, Morro said. The most dangerous section of the river, Morro said, is the “speed corridor” between River City Marina and Canal Street Marina. Here, people on small recreational boats are traveling to and from marinas on the South Branch of the river, and the mix of low traffic and a low law enforcement
presence means boaters tend to drive at full speed, up to 50 miles per hour. “It’s just a nightmare,” he said. “Everybody just does what they want.” Then there’s the traffic. The Chicago Riverwalk Project has revitalized the river, making it more crowded. “There’s been a big increase in recreational boat traffic, and it creates a lot of complications,” Morro said. “It’s not that they don’t understand the fundamental rules ... they’re just not used to this particular environment and how complex it is.”
On the beach, color codes can save lives
anything specific. According to the CPD’s website, one of the main things CPD tests for is Enterococci bacteria, a type of bacThe sun’s out, the day is warm and it’s the teria both safe and naturally occurring in perfect day for the beach. Or maybe not. It the environment. When the CPD raises the depends on the flag. yellow flag, it indicates a rise in EnterococChicago beaches are under control of ci bacteria which itself could indicate a rise the Chicago Park District, which test the in harmful bacteria. lake water daily to make sure it is safe for So what else could be in the lake? swimming. Melaney Arnold, a public information Chicago Police then raise flags on lifeofficer with the Illinois Department of guard stands to indicate whether the water Public Health, said the water may contain is considered safe. As with driving, green harmful bacteria like E. coli, which can means go and red means stop—but there’s be fatal, along with fecal coliform that is also another flag, a yellow flag, which may not necessarily harmful, but may not be confuse some people. good for you. The bacteria, though, may only hint at Yellow is a warning, but not against By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
what else could be out there, Arnold said. “Both E. coli and fecal coliform serve as good indicators of bacterial contamination because they live in the intestines of warm-blooded animals,” Arnold said in an emailed statement. The bacteria might have come from a sick mammal or it could have already been in the water for some time. Outbreaks can also be spurred by a heavy rain. “The water quality at many Illinois beaches can be influenced by heavy rainfall,” Arnold said. “Rainfall can cause run off into the lake from street catch basins or agricultural fields. It can also stir up the water bringing more of bacteria that has settled on the bottom of the lake
to the top.” So what does a yellow flag mean and what should swimmers do when they see one? Arnold said anyone with a compromised immune system should probably stay out of the water and certainly shouldn’t ingest the water. “When swallowed, bacteria like E. coli can be harmful,” she said. “It depends on the amount a person swallows, the size of the individual (child vs. adult), and the general health of the individual.” To find out whether a favorite beach is green, red or yellow, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/beaches
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Doorperson of the Month:
Maicheal Estepaniance, The Chandler Building By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
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Who says New Eastside’s not a real neighborhood? New Eastside News defends the ‘hood
Maicheal Estepaniance takes customer service very seriously and the residents of the Chandler Building, 450 E. Waterside Drive, took notice and nominated him for Doorperson of the Month for August. But Estepaniance does more than door duty. He is the front desk supervisor for the condominiums—a position he’s held for five years this month—he said he loves the work. “Well, I love what I do so I’ve been in service all my life, including the four years I worked at the J.W. Marriott prior to here,” he said. “I went to training college for hospitality and hotel business management and I am in charge of all the levels of customer service and training and scheduling and payroll. I do everything for the building as far as holidays and the Fourth of July, making sure the staffing is proper and hiring extra security and making sure my staff has all the material they need.” Estepaniance manages a staff of four, and he said the job comes first—even in his off time. “I am always free and open and my guys always call me if they have problems or questions. They feel free to call me even if I am not at work,” he said. Estepaniance also has CPR and Automated External Defibrillator training and he is currently studying and taking classes to become a property manager. “I like staying busy,” he said. “I love learning new things every day. I love multitasking. I am a team player and I am a very organized person and outgoing.” In short, he loves customer service work and it shows. The residents at the Chandler love him, and the general manager
“We are New Eastside, proud and strong. From Randolph Street to Wacker Drive, Michigan Avenue to the Lakefront— and we are getting bigger and better all the time.” – Jon Cohn
By Tom Conroy Staff Writer
Maicheal Estepaniance is the New Eastside News’ Doorperson of the Month. Estepaniance said he loves his job because he loves interacting with people. Photo courtesy Maicheal Estepaniance
at the J.W. Marriott recognized him for customer service there, too. “I love dealing with people on a daily basis,” Estepaniance said. “I am a people person. I just like to make people happy and put a smile on their face.” Estepaniance said he particularly enjoys the residents at the Chandler. “It’s a very family-oriented building. The kids in the building love me and I get along with them and I am more than happy every day to come to work smiling and give grade number one luxury service.” On the days he’s not at work, Estepaniance said he enjoys sports. “Sports are my number one interest,” he said. “From football to hockey to basketball. I have actually played football and wrestled for most of my life and I played two years of semi-pro football for Oak Park.”
Advertise with New Eastside News Call (312) 690-3092
A recent article in Chicago Magazine highlighted several neighborhoods they deemed “straight-up fake,” claiming that “real estate [executives] toss around fictionalized neighborhood names with abandon.” New Eastside, which joined Tally’s Corner, NoCa and Noble Square on the list, was described as being part of Streeterville. The magazine claimed New Eastside has little legitimacy because it is interchangeably referred to as Lakeshore East and River East. While the magazine could not be reached for comment, several members of the community had something to say about the story: “Streeterville and the New Eastside are separated by the Chicago River. Rivers are dividing geographical markers like the Rio Grande and the Mississippi, so it really is a bold claim to make that Streeterville is New Eastside. New Eastside is often considered part of the Loop, but the ‘L’ train that makes the Loop is not that close to us, because we are located east of Michigan Ave., another big dividing road. It’s the unique concentration of residential towers around a six-acre Lake Shore East Park, that makes the area feel like a real neighborhood within the city. I have never heard the place called River East.”
— Elaine Hyde, editor of New Eastside News
“We got [Google] to add the New Eastside label to our very defined neighborhood by sharing the heading of the neighborhood website—neweastside.org, created in 1999—including a picture and
reference to the dozen official city signs that have survived the elements and still identify our 1981 Illinois incorporated, non-profit New Eastside identity.”
— Richard Ward, president of the New Eastside Association of Residents
“Apparently, local real estate executives are getting a bit confused with the vast growing array of Chicago neighborhoods, each with their own catchy name. Now, we can understand the confusion, but c’mon folks. The area Chicago Magazine listed as the New Eastside or Lakeshore East was described as ‘a plot of high rises at the mouth of the Chicago River, north of Millenium Park and south of Illinois Street. That is not us. That’s Streeterville! “Streeterville is close by and has a grand tradition of its own here in Chicago. But let’s get it right, boys and girls. Our beloved New Eastside is just developing its identity. We have our set boundaries, too. We don’t need to be caught in the shadows of our older brother just to the north. “We are New Eastside, proud and strong. From Randolph Street to Wacker Drive, Michigan Avenue to the Lakefront — and we are getting bigger and better all the time.”
— Jon Cohn, community contributor to New Eastside News The New Eastside community has spoken, and they are proud to identify with this neighborhood. It might behoove Chicago Magazine to have a conversation with neighborhood residents before they deliver their damning proclamations from up on high.
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Day trip tip: Anderson Japanese Gardens By Taylor Hartz Staff Writer Stepping into the Anderson Japanese Gardens, you’d have no idea you’re just outside a bustling American metropolis. The gardens offer a peek into the landscape of Japan and a retreat into a zen environment. Located in Rockford, about an hour and a half drive from Chicago, it’s the ideal day trip to disconnect from the city. Founded in 1978 by businessman John Anderson, this garden is considered one of the best of its kind. Designer Hoichi Kurisu, who studied landscape design and construction in Tokyo and served as Landscape Director for the Garden Society of Japan, was the mastermind who brought Anderson’s vision to life. The garden makes use of the three essential elements needed for an authentic Japanese garden—stone, to form the structure of the landscape; water, the life force; and plants, for color and seasonal
change. Different areas of the garden also draw from other Japanese-inspired styles including bridges, pagodas, stone lanterns and water basins. Walking through the garden on a July afternoon, the lush greenery offered an oasis of shade, making it an enjoyable experience even on hot summer days. When we purchased our tickets, we also picked up a few bags of Koi fish food for $1 each. Around the first bend in the garden, we were greeted by dozens of colorful Koi swimming up to shore, eager to be fed. This is sure to be a hit with kids and it was enjoyable and entertaining for the adults, too. By the teahouse, a quaint little building that you can peer inside to catch a glimpse of where you’d take tea in Japan, is a serene oasis with tall, roaring waterfalls, stone bridges and wooden seating areas by ponds filled with more Koi. Sandy, a volunteer, gave us a hint. She suggested lying down on the docks and peering over the edge. Under the docks
are dozens of baby Koi—tiny fish swarming the area in all the same vibrant colors as their parents. Sandy also commented on the serene environment that invokes a sense of calm as visitors stroll past sand and stone zen gardens and lounge under trees. The serenity is no accident. According to the garden’s website, “Japanese gardens are very carefully designed and patiently pruned according to aesthetic principles to create a work of natural art that inspires calm, renewal, discovery and an invigorated soul.” The garden has docents who provide two-hour guided tours for $2. Tours are offered at 10:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-registration online is encouraged. After visiting the gardens, visitors can stop for lunch right on the property at Fresco at the Gardens, a restaurant that offers freshly cooked meals for breakfast and lunch. Anderson Japanese Gardens, located at
The relaxing atmosphere at the Anderson Japanese Gardens is by design. Photo by Taylor Hartz
319 Spring Creek Road, are open from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday and 9 a.m–5 p.m. Saturday–Sunday. Tickets can be purchased on site, $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $7 for students. Children 5 and under get in free.
Volleyball leagues heat up North Avenue Beach
Despite storm clouds, the beach volleyball nets are set and ready for action at North Avenue Beach. Photo by Taylor Hartz
By Taylor Hartz Staff Writer On any given summer night, volleyball nets hang across North Avenue Beach in Lincoln Park, as teams gather to bump, set and spike volleyballs through the air. The courts are open to the public so long as players bring a net, but leagues like Chicago Sport and Social Club, S3
and Players Sports Group give teams access to beachfront courts, nets, balls and organize matches. One Monday night in late July, even as storm clouds rolled in over Lake Michigan, at least 20 teams were spread across the beach for 7:30 p.m. games. As the games started, players shouted encouragement over the sounds of crashing waves and seagulls.
For volleyball veteran Nick Ferrell, North Avenue Beach is where it’s at. Ferrell currently plays with Chicago Sport and Social Club though he has played with Players and will join a second summer league with S3 soon. Each league has its own flavor. With Chicago Sport Social, players take the game seriously and players know each other and are looking to win a few games, Ferrell said. On the other hand, Ferrell explained, a league like S3, which stands for Simply Social Sports, are more focused on socializing. S3 teams are made up of random sign ups, so players have a chance to make new friends. “Beach volleyball is one of my favorite sports because you really rely on your team to win and you’re close enough to your teammates that you can chat and catch up, and have fun while you play,” Ferrell said, “You also can get up to speed without being in the best shape of your life.” For new player Shoshanna Muszynski,
North Avenue Beach has been the ideal spot for her first season of volleyball. “The area we have is reserved for volleyball so there isn’t much of a crowding issue. We get an amazing view of downtown at North Avenue. It’s also very central for everyone on our team.” Muszynski is new to city sports leagues and she said the experience at the beach has been great. “My favorite part has been seeing how well you can use a team to play better. It’s a sport you can’t play alone, and the harmony between teammates is so vital. I love the feeling when we play really well together, even if we lose,” she said. “There’s no better feeling than improvement and seeing everyone smiling no matter the score.” Anyone interested can check out the sports leagues’ websites for more information or just head down to North Avenue Beach to watch players enjoy the summer sport with a great view of the lake and city skyline.
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GPAC, from Page 3 table and tried to address the whole room. “You can’t pick and choose which bylaws you want to follow. You need to follow the process,” he told the room. Two aldermen who represent the area, Ald. Sophia King (4th) and Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd), were present at the meeting and spoke on other topics. Toward the end of the meeting, the Park District authorities announced an election to be held in a few months time. The next meeting is set for September, though an exact date has yet to be determined. It’s not clear who will run for the new GPAC committee. The local group Keep Grant Green, which is assisting with the election of new officials, accuses O’Neill on its website of ruining the park for locals by allowing the park to host too many big, commercial events which prevent locals from using the park in the way they would like. One such event is Lollapalooza. O’Neill said he is instrumental in negotiating and supervising reforestation efforts by the organizers of the City’s revenue-gener-
ating music festival, raising questions of whether his suspension would affect the post-festival cleanup. Chicago Park District spokesperson Jessica Maxey-Faulkner downplayed any relationship between C3, the Lollapalooza promoter and GPAC. “As a good steward of the parks, I believe that C3 has partnered with GPAC on initiatives in the past, but the Advisory Council standing does not impact the permit or operations in any way,” she wrote in an email. That show will go on, and Grant Park will be cleaned up and restored, GPAC or no GPAC. Anyone who has been to at least two GPAC meetings this year may run for office and vote for a new president and council. Assuming those same constituents show up at the next meeting, they may well be able to vote in a new council and president who align more with the views of Keep Grant Green, the Park District and the aldermen.
Andreas Tsantilis prepares to wow an audience with his street magic show. Photo by Elizabeth Czapski
said he has been doing magic for about 15 years. He came to Chicago in 2008 and started performing on the street two years later. Before that, he used to do “close-up magic” in bars and cafes when he lived in Greece. Now, he does magic for the public on the weekends. “The street is freedom,” he said. “No one will arrest you. You do this, it’s like, an allure to get people to stop, make them watch and make them pay you.” His favorite part, he said, is meeting people from all over the world. His least favorite part? “People that just walk away after the show and don’t even say thank you.”
AUGUST 2018 / 13
When parks need help, who you gonna call?
Equipment in the playlot was vandalized this summer. A resident placed a call to 311 and the graffiti was cleaned promptly. Photo by Angela Gagnon
es and other folks making threatening remarks to homeowners. Dan Koz, head volunteer of the Masters Many New Eastsiders consider LakeAssociation, said, “People can call 311 shore East Park to be our own backyard. for park issues and anything related to The park holds a special place in our the Master Association filters back to us. hearts, and we want to see it operating at [The park issues] are the Master HOA’s its full potential. However, some residents responsibility.” have voiced concerns recently about issues Vanessa Casciano, community relaranging from park infrastructure in need tions director of Magellan Group adds, “If of repair to playground vandalism. anyone sees criminal behavior, they should When local mom Natalie Heitmann saw call 911.” that the playlot had been vandalized in late Other residents have noticed lights June, she said, “It’s really disgraceful to see around the perimeter of the park that have a playground look this way.” Her 3-yearburned out or been broken for a long time. old son even asked why the playground “It’s on the electrician’s schedule since looks so dirty. it has got a short somewhere and needs New Eastside resident Nicole Vandediagnosis. It’s a very large, expensive Boom came across some obscene graffiti project that’s on the list,’ Koz said. “We’ve on the playground equipment on the been concentrating resources on the areas morning of June 29 when walking her that affect the most people with security children to summer camp. She photocoming up as an unexpected issue these graphed the graffiti and reported it via the past several months.” 311 app. Later that day, when she returned Another way to report park issues is to the park, the graffiti was mostly washed through the Chicago Park District website. off, but there are still subtle remnants of Anyone can lodge an online complaint the vandalism visible on the equipment. for problems such as garbage, graffiti, a A Park Homes homeowner, who light out, a tree down, misconduct, secupreferred to remain anonymous, said rity or any other concern. The form can the neighborhood has been dealing with be found under the “Contact Us” tab at chicagoparkdistrict.com homeless people sleeping on the porchBy Angela Gagnon Staff Writer
Singing, from Page 7 than he made at his day job.“I quit my job, I quit school at the time, I moved out of my parents’ house, and this has been my profession ever since.” Stringer doesn’t only stick to the streets. “I do a lot of other stuff as a tin man,” he said, including delivering roses and doing dating consultations. “I wouldn’t call it relationship advice; it’s more about building yourself and then you’ll be stronger within a relationship,” he said. He also has a stand-up comedy routine. In front of a table lined with velvet, Andreas Tsantilis stood at the entrance to the Plaza of the Americas at Michigan Avenue and Hubbard Street and made mini-soccer balls disappear and reappear beneath three brown cups he moved around the table. An astonished crowd watched his every move. Eventually, the balls were upgraded to oranges, and at the end of his show, he picked up his bowler hat to reveal a whole squash that hadn’t been there before. A black case in front of his table was painted with the words “Vaudeville Magic Show.” Tsantilis, 41, introduced himself as being “all the way from South Africa” and
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Events Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. Ongoing
No Shower Happy Hour at Streeterville Social Make the most of long summer evenings at rooftop restaurant and bar Streeterville Social at Loews Chicago Hotel. No Shower Happy Hour features half-priced specialty cocktails every Saturday–Sunday, 3-5 p.m. Relax with us after a long day of shopping, sightseeing, or sunbathing–no shower required. Cool Down Happy Hour features half-priced specialty cocktails every Monday–Thursday, 8 p.m. to close. Enjoy the cooler temperatures after the sun sets with refreshing sips. Streeterville Social, Loews Chicago Hotel, 455 N. Park Dr. (312) 840-6617, streetervillesocial.com Family Fun Festival Join in the summer celebrations with Millennium Park’s Family Fun Festival. All ages can enjoy arts and crafts, music, performance arts and a reading circle at this free event. Weekdays until Aug. 10, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., free, Millennium Park (under the tent at Chase Promenade North; south entrance), 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 742-1168, millenniumpark.org
August 1
Joffrey Ballet Tickets go on Sale Single tickets for the Joffrey Ballet’s 2018–’19 season are now on sale. Performances include Swan Lake (Oct. 17–28), Anna Karenina (Feb. 13–24, 2019) and Across the Pond (April 24–May 5, 2019). Add-on events include The Nutcracker (Dec. 1–30) and the Joffrey Gala Performance (April 12, 2019). Joffrey Ballet, 10 E. Randolph St., (312) 739-0120, joffrey.org/1819season
The Chicago Children’s Museum invites kids ages 4 and up to design a parachute. Design your parachute for a tiny skydiver, and be sure to test it so it lands safely. This is the last date for this event, so check it out while it’s still here. 11:15 a.m.–12:45 p.m., free, Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., (312) 5271000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org
August 5
National Oyster Day at III Forks Dollar Oysters and Discounted Drinks III Forks Prime Steakhouse will celebrate National Oyster Day with a “shuck for a buck” happy hour. The Lakeshore East restaurant will offer $1 oysters in the lounge and on the scenic rooftop patio. Guests may pair their oysters with flutes of Gratien & Meyer Cremant de Loire Sparkling Rose or glasses of Foxen Chenin Blanc for $8 each. 4-7 p.m., III Forks, 180 N. Field Blvd. For table reservations, call (312) 938-4303 or visit 3Forks.com
August 7 SOAR Farmer’s Market Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, sample a pastry or two and support local farmers at the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) farmer’s market at the Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza. Choose from ready-to-eat lunch options as well as produce like fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, baked goods, cheeses and more. The market will be open rain or shine. Tuesdays in August, 7 a.m.–2 p.m., free for Illinois residents, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org
August 2
The Seventh Seal Film Screening Gene Siskel Film Center presents The Seventh Seal, a 1957 film following the hardened knight Sydow, as he journeys through a countryside destroyed by plagues and religious extremism. For many American filmgoers, this film acts as an introduction to director Ingmar Bergman’s work. Swedish audio with English subtitles. 6 p.m., $11 ($6 for members), Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., (312) 846-2800, siskelfilmcenter.org Riding on Air
Photo courtesy of Facebook.com/SOARFarmersMarket
Rush Hour Workouts As part of its free Summer Fitness series, Navy Pier invites you to keep in-shape with a quick, 60-minute workout on the
way home from work. All participants must complete a fitness waiver form, available on-site. Tuesdays in August, 6–7 p.m., free, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (Wave Wall performance platform, south dock), (312) 595-7473, navypier.org Art in Times of War What is the role of art during wartime? This guided tour through the Art Institute of Chicago focuses on this question, as well as various artists’ response to the harsh realities of war. Some artists took a direct approach, documenting military figures and their battles, but others portrayed their emotions or ideologies about the idea of war. Meet in Griffin Court. 12–1 p.m., free with museum admission, Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 443-3600, artic.edu
August 9
Free Admission Day at the Field Museum Illinois Residents can take advantage of Free Admission Day at the Field Museum of Natural History. This offer gets you into all general admission exhibits making it a great way to enjoy an afternoon with science-loving friends or family. Also Aug. 29–30. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., free, Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org Lake Shore East Book Club Open to anyone in the Lake Shore East community, the LSE Book Club meets at The Tides. This month, the book club will be discussing The Last Painting of Sara de Vos by Dominic Smith. For the September meeting, the club will discuss Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford. Second Thursday of each month, 6 p.m., free, The Tides, 360 E. South Water St. (16th Floor), (312) 540-0400 CAPS Meeting (Beat 111–113) 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., free, 130 N. Garland Ct., (312) 321-0600
GEMS’ Summer Social for Prospective Parents Prospective GEMS parents are invited to an informal reception to meet GEMS leaders, talk to current GEMS parents and tour the building. Wine and light refreshments will be served. 7:30 p.m., free, GEMS World Academy Chicago, 350 E. South Water St., (312) 809-8900, reserve your spot at gemsworldacademy-chicago.com
August 10
Camp Northerly Spend an evening under the Chicago skyline with Goose Island Brewery this summer and enjoy camp-themed dinner and snacks. This 21-and-over campout doubles as a fundraiser for Chicago parks and the communities who love them. Tickets include unlimited access to Goose Island Brewer’s Basecamp with custom drafts and cans, as well as activities like glow-in-the-dark kickball, nature prairie walks and sunrise yoga. Also Aug. 11, 4 p.m. (Aug. 10), 10 a.m. (Aug. 11), $95–150, Northerly Island, 1521 S. Linn White Drive, eventbrite.com
August 16
Adler After Dark: Camp Adler The Adler Planetarium invites you to enjoy all the things you love about the great outdoors with none of the bug bites, sore feet or poison ivy. This 21-and-over event will transport you through the dark sky as you hone your navigational skills and learn how to combat light pollution. Special guests from NASA will share updates from the astronauts aboard the International Space Station. 6:30–10:30 p.m., $15–25, Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org Millennium Park’s Summer Music Series Ends Millennium Park has provided free outdoor concerts throughout the summer. Concluding the summer 2018 series, this concert features a double dose of indie rock by Chicago-native bands, beginning with the jazz-infused sounds of The Sea and Cake and concluding with the classic rock-inspired Moonrise Nation. This lineup promises a great send-off for the summer concert series. 6:30 p.m., free,
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Magellan Rewards Festival in The Park at Lakeshore East 12TH ANNUAL
Saturday, September 8, 2018 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 742-1168, millenniumpark.org
August 17
Movies in the Park: Coco This summer, Bank of America presents Coco in Maggie Daley Park. In this family movie, Anthony Gonzales voices an aspiring musician named Miguel who must journey to and through the Land of the Dead to find his great-great-grandfather. Closed captioned. 8:00–9:45 p.m., free, Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St., maggiedaleypark.com
August 18
Fantasy Football Draft Party The Chicago Tribune invites you to host the ultimate fantasy draft party in your own suite at Soldier Field. In addition to your own suite to host your party, enjoy on-field access, Chicago Bears player appearances, draft day insights from a panel of experts and complimentary food and beer. $60, Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, (312) 235-7000, to book your party visit soldierfield.net BLU: Behold the Beauty At the Shedd Aquarium’s 12th annual fundraising event, the aquarium will unveil its newest exhibit, Underwater Beauty. Experience special animal encounters and views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline and Navy Pier’s fireworks, all while supporting the Shedd’s mission to inspire curiosity, compassion and conservation for the aquatic world. 6 p.m.–12 a.m., $150, Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, (312) 9392438, sheddaquarium.org
Chicago Air & Water Show Chicago’s Air & Water Show will have you looking to the skies in wonder. The twoday event features watercraft demonstrations by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, aircraft demonstrations by the U.S. Army parachute team Golden Knights, and a headlining performance from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Also Aug. 19, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., free, North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive, cityofchicago.org
August 19
Sunday Science: Spiders Gardens need a healthy balance of bugs to stay beautiful—and no one helps keep that balance more than the spider. Explore Lurie Garden while looking for and learning about spiders. No registration required, just meet at the south end of the boardwalk in the garden. 2–3 p.m., free, Lurie Garden, E. Monroe St. between Columbus Drive and Michigan Ave., (312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org
August 20
Chicago Tribune Restaurant Summit As part of the Chicago Tribune’s Food Bowl festival, join in a panel discussion about the food and beverage industry and the factors affecting it. The summit will cover issues such as restaurant criticism, staffing shortages, and openings and closings. 11:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., $15, Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, 12 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 940-3552, chicagoathletichotel.com
August 21
Summer Breeze Soiree The Peninsula Hotel invites you to enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a string quartet, a silent auction and raffle prizes
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at this summer soiree. Tickets are limited. 6–8 p.m., $65 ($50 for members), The Peninsula Hotel (on the terrace), 108 E. Superior St., RSVP to (312) 664-2560
August 23
Mid-America Club Preview Party Tour the Mid-America Club as you enjoy the views from the 80th floor of the Aon Center. There will also be an exclusive membership available for New Eastside residents, which includes dining, travel and golf. Reservations are required and space is limited. Business-casual attire. Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph St. (80th floor), RSVP to (312) 861-1100 or melissa.czyz@clubcorp.com Chefs on the Grill The Chefs on the Grill competition is back for its 11th year. Join Chicago’s top restaurants as they compete for charity and the title of Champion. You can also interact with the chefs, taste their cuisine and enjoy a live band. 5:30–9:00 p.m., $69, Park Grill, 11 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 521-7275, make reservations at opentable.com
August 25
Silent NO MORE Experience a collection of life stories from people with hearing loss in this theatrical documentary. Silent NO MORE is followed by a Q&A session with the audience and cast. The show has been performed throughout the country, including at Carnegie Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m., $25, Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., (312) 443-3800, goodmantheatre.org
August 27
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ican folklore in Pritzker Pavilion. This all ages event offers an unforgettable night of Mariachi, filled with traditional dances and music from Jalisco. BYOB. 6–10 p.m. free, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 742-1168, naima-nfp.org
August 30
Movies in Lake Shore East Park Enjoy the final movie in the Movies in the Park series: Black Panther. Presented by Magellan Development Group. Movie begins at sundown Approx: 8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Magellan Development Group (312) 469-8100.
August 31
The Great American Lobster Fest What better way to celebrate Labor Day weekend than with fresh seafood at Navy Pier? Each attendee at The Great American Lobster Fest receives a 1.25-pound steamed red lobster or lobster roll, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes and a dinner roll. When you’ve gotten your fill of food, enjoy tribute bands playing the music of The Beatles, Tom Petty and ZZ Top. Continues until Sept. 2, $39 (VIP $109), Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7473, navypier.org
AUGUST RACES Universal Sole Burgers and Beer 5K 7 p.m., Monday, Aug. 6 - Soldier Field Stan’s Donuts 5K/kids run 8 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 11 Montrose Harbor
Mike Reed’s People Places & Things As part of its Summer Jazz series, the Millennium Park’s Harris Theatre presents the iconic Chicago jazz drummer Mike Reed. In 2007, Reed teamed up with Greg Ward (alto sax), Tim Haldeman (tenor sax) and Jason Roebke (bass) to form Mike Reed’s People Places & Things. Now, the band brings its dynamic ensemble to Millennium Park. 6 p.m., $10, Harris Theater, Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph St., (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org
BTN Big 10K/5K 7 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 12 - Soldier Field
August 28
Chicago Lung Run 5K/10K/1 mile 8:30 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 26 Montrose Harbor
México en el Corazón Experience and share the passion of Mex-
Sunset Marathon Chicago 5K/10K/13.1 mile 9 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 18 - Lakeshore Drive and Monroe Street Chicago Triathlon Super Sprint and Kids Race 7 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 25 - Foster Beach Chicago Triathlon Olympic & Sprint 6 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 26 Monroe Harbor
16 / AUGUST 2018
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