VOL. 5 NO. 1
January 2017
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New Eastside’s snow removal team
New Eastside snow removal team Dan Guardado and Mark Nichol (Photo: Tricia Parker).
During my 12 adult years in the city, I’ve viewed snow removal as tooth fairy–like: the snow is there when I go to sleep and gone when I wake. But finally, in the literal cold light of day, I’m about to meet the two men behind New Eastside’s snow removal magic. Turn to page 6. January Cubs Convention “taking over” Sheraton Grand Page 2
New Year’s resolution advice from New Eastsiders Page 8
Sneak peek at 2017 art, fitness and dining Page 5
2 / JANUARY 2017
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
NEWS
By Tricia Parker | Staff Writer
How to Contact Us info@ neweastsidecommunity.com (312) 690-3092
Aqua elevator closed until January 5
“If you use a wheelchair you have to be inventive,” says New Eastside Association of Residents (NEAR) president Richard Ward. “But you shouldn’t have to be inventive in downtown Chicago.”
Editor: Elaine Hyde info@neweastsidecommunity.com Managing Editor: Daniel Patton dpatton@ neweastsidecommunity.com
In November, Magellan completed repairs to the Lancaster elevator’s lights.
Copy Editors: Robert Schmidt, Rebecca Baldwin
Construction project leaves muddy trail in Lake Shore East Park
Layout/Design: Daniel Patton Community Contributors: Tricia Parker, Jon Cohn, Angela Gagnon, Matthew Reiss, Ben Cirrus, Walter Miller, Rebecca Baldwin, Elizabeth Johnston, Shanti Nagarkatti, Reemaa Konkimalla, Mischaela Advani 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 and do not necessarily reflect the views of New Eastside News. New Eastside News does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. New Eastside News is independently owned and operated. Copyright ©2016. All rights reserved.
which provides access to Upper Columbus and Wacker. The new route requires pedestrians to navigate through three sets of doors, none of which have an “automatic” handicap button wheelchair users can push.
An eight-foot construction project beginning at the western edge of Lake Shore East Park, and stretching toward the foot of the grand staircase, has stripped a wide swath of grass and left a muddy “smile” in its wake.
Notification at the Aqua Pedway elevator. (photo: Parker).
The Aqua Pedway elevator connecting the west end of Lake Shore East Park to the Pedway and Upper Columbus will be closed for repairs until at least Jan. 5, according to Magellan. Magellan says it is working on replacing a “very rare” spare part. A sign posted on the elevator encourages pedestrians to take The Tides public parking garage elevator to level six,
“It’s just ugly, that’s all,” says Harla Hutchinson of The Buckingham. Throughout most of December crisscrossing boards covered the project, until the boards were removed on Dec. 20. Magellan confirmed that the work was not “Wanda related.” “It [was] temporary electrical work being conducted in the park by ComEd,” says Magellan Community Relations Director Vanessa Casciano.
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Columbia Yacht Club sails into 125th year For fans of the Columbia Yacht Club, 2017 will be the “Year of the Bash.” “We want to celebrate [our] 125th anniversary each day, at varying levels,” says General Manager Nick Philp. “There will be multiple events every month — all kinds of craziness.” From its humble beginnings as a windswept shed in 1892, the club — now permanently anchored on the M.V. Abegweit in DuSable Harbor — emerged as a force in the city’s philanthropic and sailing scene over the past century. To celebrate the CYC’s unconventional history, Philp said the club will divvy up the year into five segments. Each will correspond to an era—the club’s beginnings as a shack, then a floating clubhouse, and finally its three nautical incarnations: the Pierre Marquette, the S.S. Florida, and the 372-foot Abegweit. Philp says most festivities will be limited to members, but that a Pirates’ party on Saturday, Feb. 4 will offer neighbors a chance to experience the club’s bounty. New Eastsiders interested in attending should call (312) 938-3625. Continued on page 3.
January Cubs Convention will take over Sheraton Grand From page 1. The 32nd annual Chicago Cubs Convention, January 13–15 at the Sheraton Grand, will celebrate one of the most legendary contests in the history of baseball.
appearances, kids-only press conferences, dozens of discussion panels, “Cubs Jeopardy!” and a World Series trophy viewing tent, the three-day extravaganza will take over the Streeterville hotel “in its entirety,” says Sheraton Grand General Manager Mark Lauer.
“Think of the Cubs and the Indians and the long drought that they’ve each gone through,” says Cubs’ Manager of Games and Event Production Jim Oboikowitch. “Look back at [Rajai] Davis hitting a home run in the 8th inning to tie it up,” he continues.
“An entire floor of the parking garage will be utilized for autograph signing, the organist from Wrigley Field will be playing in the lobby and Louisville Slugger will be on site turning wood into baseball wands, carving bats to order as fans wait.”
“It may have been the greatest game seven ever in the World Series.”
Players and alumni confirmed to appear to date include Ryne Sandberg, Fergie Jenkins and Kerry Wood.
By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer
Featuring player appearances, alumni
The conference realizes the dream of its founder, former Cubs President John McDonough, who left the team in 2011 to become president of the Chicago Blackhawks.
to give back to the community. “On Wednesday and Thursday before the convention, we do a Cubs caravan where players will go visit hospitals and schools,” he says.
“He wanted to bridge the gap between off-season and spring training,” Oboikowitch explains. “When he started with the Cubs, you’d see players on [the] last day of [the] season and you’d see them on opening day.”
“They refurbish gymnasiums. It’s something they really look forward to.”
“During the off-season, the main focus is the convention,” he says. Besides catering to the fans of what is arguably the most anticipated victory in the history of professional sports, he coordinates the team’s efforts
The Sheraton Grand is doing its part to help the community as well. “A portion of the guestroom rate goes towards Cubs Charities, a nonprofit organization and the philanthropic arm of the Cubs,” says Lauer. Tickets start at $400. www.chicago.cubs.mlb.com/chc/fan_forum/cubs-convention
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NEWS From page 2.
Bockwinkel’s Harbor Point shelves plans to expand Grocery store Bockwinkel’s Harbor Point says it will not pursue plans to expand, citing a series of “roadblocks.”
Bockwinkel’s Harbor Point Tower (Parker).
“We did [want to expand]... but we don’t have any intention to at this time,” a manager told New Eastside News. According to Harbor Point’s December newsletter, Bockwinkel’s owner Jerry Bockwinkel made multiple requests in 2016 to the Harbor Point Condominium Association to expand. The first was in May of 2016, when he asked to expand into the empty Stunard commercial space to the right of the store, toward Randolph Street. According to the newsletter, the expansion plans would give Bockwinkel’s greater access to Harbor Point’s sun deck. In June, the board’s lawyers advised the board not to permit the request. In October, a request to expand in the other direction, toward “the corridor in front of the Pedway doors,” was again denied by the board’s lawyers. According to the newsletter, after the second request, Bockwinkel posted a
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
notice asking the board give him permission to expand, or to terminate his lease Dec. 31. Neighbors report seeing a notice posted earlier this year, in Bockwinkel’s window, offering detailed expansion plans and explaining the benefits of the expansion. That sign has since been taken down. Harbor Point property manager Tifanni Sterdivant says that the condo board “was not opposed to expansion” and that she had reached out to Bockwinkel to meet with him in January, but hasn’t yet heard a reply. Sterdivant, who signed on as property manager in October, says she hasn’t yet seen actual plans for expansion, and does not know the end date of Bockwinkel’s lease. Mr. Bockwinkel couldn’t be reached for comment. “It would be premature to say there’ll be no expansion,” Sterdivant said. In November, the condo board formed a “Commercial Tenant Relations Committee” to address any ongoing issues with Bockwinkel’s. The smallest of Bockwinkel’s three Chicago locations, Bockwinkel’s Harbor Point has been serving New Eastsiders since 1995.
333 N. Michigan nears end of $50 million facelift
JANUARY 2017 / 3
Standing proudly over the Chicago River, Art Deco beauty 333 N. Michigan is close to being fully restored to its former glory — with a few modern touches. “The bulk of [the renovation] is done, but [pieces] are ongoing,” says Denny McGann, an agent with property manager MB Real Estate, about a $50 million renovation project begun in 2012. Renovations to the 35-story skyscraper, built in 1928 by Holabird & Root, include a refurbished entrance and lobby, a new amenity floor, and new luxury suites on floors one through three. Street-level tenants include Fannie May, Starbucks and the Chicago Blackhawks store.
Separate bike and pedestrian paths for Lakefront trail The Chicago Park District received a $12 million donation from Ken Griffin, Illinois’s richest man, to separate the bike and pedestrian paths of the Lakefront Trail. The currently shared trail presents safety issues where numerous accidents involving bikes and pedestrians are reported each year. The new paths will be completed in 2018.
New Eastside News racks at Village Market removed New Eastside News racks will no longer be located at the Village Market on levels one and three. A representative from Magellan Development Group who manages the Village Market, requested the removal of the racks citing maintenance issues. A new location for racks is currently being sought.
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Community Contributors NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
4 / JANUARY 2017
Yoga fans bowled over by new Pinstripes class By Ben Cirrus | Community Contributor If Streeterville resident Idong Ebong hadn’t already known about Pinstripes, he might have considered doing yoga in a bowling venue something of a stretch. “I’d never been downstairs [at Pinstripes] until I showed up for yoga, so it was nice to discover a space suitable for a large yoga class,” says Ebong. Since September, Pinstripes and CorePower Yoga (CPY) Streeterville have teamed up to give the community a chance to meditate and sweat, mingle and dine in their monthly “Bends and Blends” event pairing yoga — and brunch. You read that right… our neighborhood bowling alley and yoga studio have come together to give us a reason to feel great about crawling out of bed early on Sunday morning.
“We are working with CorePower to expand on this idea and, hopefully, grow to two or three times a month,” she continues. “We hope that once more community members get wind of this, we will see our class size skyrocket.” If you’ve been to Pinstripes, you might be wondering where in that busy space you could find the peace and quiet required to focus on your poses. The class is downstairs, in a river-level ballroom, complete with mirrors in front to check your form, and windows in back to let in morning light. For newbies, another pleasant surprise will be the bottomless brunch, featuring waffle stations, salmon and wood-fired pizza — proving Pinstripes is indeed a bistro first, then a bowling alley and bocce hall (and yoga studio).
So how did the idea for adding yoga come about? It originated with the Pinstripes team as a way to make the space available for the good of the community.
DOORPERSON OF THE MONTH
Andre Johnson Harbor Point Tower
The Vinyasa flow–type class is led by Loryn Nigro, assistant general manager of CPY Streeterville. The $5 class welcomes yogis of all levels, including those who will take their first class on January 22nd. (The fee also nets you $5 off the $28 brunch and a free mimosa.) Come for the yoga bends and stay for the champagne blends. To register for the Jan. 22nd class, visit www.pinstripes.com/chicago-illinois/event/bends-blends/. Mats required; brunch reservations recommended. Below: Yoga class at Pinstripes (Photo: Pinstripes).
Andre Johnson (Photo: Daniel Patton).
By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer Harbor Point doorperson Andre Johnson has shown the skills to succeed in several occupations over the course of his career, and he says that attitude got him where he is today. “I consider myself a people person, which is how I ended up doing the job I do now,” he explains. “I try to give the service, the performance and respect that I would like to receive.” “The residents make my job easy,” he adds. “They are great.”
So far, the class is bowling over neighbors. About 30–45 people attend each class, says Marketing Coordinator Angelina Gradilla.
AquaMermaid to offer discounted class in New Eastside By Angela Gagnon | Staff Writer
swim techniques — while donning a sparkly mermaid tail.
Enjoy a workout and turn life into a fairytale!
You’ll glide and swirl through the pool, dive down underwater, buddy up with a partner and maybe even learn some tricks to show off. “Expect smiles, splashes and games!” says Kaitis.
Join Nora Kaitis, founder of AquaMermaid Chicago, for a unique and funfilled opportunity to learn a variety of
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The class is recommended for ages seven and up — girls and boys of all ability levels are welcome, as are adults. Lessons can be modified to accommodate swimmers younger than seven. Students should bring a swimsuit and a towel. Goggles may be helpful, but are not required. “The movements are just stunning underwater. It’s a lot of fun,” says Kaitis. “This is your chance to live out your dream of being Ariel.” The lesson will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 29, in the pool at Lakeshore Sport and Fitness, 211 N. Stetson Ave., and will cost $20 per person (instead of the regular $60).
Johnson has been a lobby contact at Harbor Point for 23 years. He learned about the position from “another doorman who was working at the property.” At the time, he was selling women’s shoes for Chernin’s in Downers Grove. Prior to that, he spent more than a decade as a restaurant manager in Montgomery, Alabama. The town is home to Alabama State University, where Johnson earned a BS in Business Management and employed his 91-mph fastball pitching for the Division 1 Hornets baseball team. Although he enjoyed the South for “its hospitality and people,” the native Chicagoan returned north to be closer to his family. But not before trying out for the Cincinnati Reds. “It was an open call,” he says. “Your turn comes around, you show what you got.”
Sign up here: www.meetup.com/Lakeshore-East-New-Eastside-Neighbors/ events/236327099/
He did not make the team, but that’s okay. Besides working the Harbor Point lobby, he keeps busy running an interior design business and spending time with his wife and three children.
Left: AquaMermaid Chicago Mermaids in training at AquaMermaid class.
To nominate your doorpereson email info@neweastsidecommunity.com
Community Contributors
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
JANUARY 2017 / 5
Sneak peek 2017 — what’s ahead for New Eastside From page 1. By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer For tourists, Chicago’s New Eastside is a world-class destination filled with exquisite parks, unique entertainment and stunning architecture. But for the community of urban pioneers who live in this riverside hamlet, it is home. We went behind the scenes of the neighborhood’s most renowned global attractions to see what’s on tap for locals (and smart tourists) in 2017. Maggie Daley Park Weather permitting, the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park will remain open until early March. But it’s just one of many things to do in the 20-acre public recreation area. “We have a variety of fitness classes for all ages and abilities,” says Supervisor Jackie Guthrie. “For the babies six months and up, we have ‘Moms, Pops & Tots Interaction.’ We have early childhood classes from Kiddie College, which is our preschool, and we have adult classes.”
8,000-square-foot facility at 352 E. Monroe St. will offer public restrooms, an outdoor patio and a “green roof” formed by the existing park lawn. The eatery’s proprietor, Four Corners Tavern Group, hopes to begin serving patrons by the end of the year. Outdoor lovers who prefer to eat and drink on the go can already order from the park’s newest concessionaire, Buck’s Café, a stand at the southern end of the Skating Ribbon. Owned and operated by Bill Prahofer, who also runs Buck’s Four Star Grill at Buckingham Fountain, Buck’s Café opened on Black Friday 2016 with a menu that includes Chicago-style dogs and deluxe hot chocolate. “We top it with chocolate drizzle, whipped cream and marshmallows,” Prahofer says. “It’s kid-friendly.”
“We had a great year,” says Michelle Woods, the city’s assistant project director, who has worked on the Riverwalk since it was an idea of the Daley administration and helped launch this year’s extended season. “Island Party Hut ended up selling 150 Christmas trees in December.”
Guthrie suggests that interested participants move quickly. “We had a great turnout for registration,” she says. “Some classes are at capacity already.”
Construction of the Maggie Daley Park Restaurant is “supposed to start in the spring,” says Bob O’Neill, President of the Grant Park Conservancy (GPC). When completed, the $62.5 million,
The good times will be enhanced by the third and final phase of the Riverwalk project: the expansion from State Street to Lake Street that was completed last October. It adds three uniquely functional areas to the promenade. The Water Plaza between LaSalle and Wells allows visitors to explore the very edge of the riverbank. The Jetty between Wells and Franklin features piers that extend over the river. Finally, the Riverbank at Franklin and the bend features an expansive lawn and connects Upper and Lower Wacker Drive.
Beginning January 9, the park’s Winter Session will offer dance, Zumba, three different types of yoga and several other classes for multiple age groups. The Spring Session in March will debut a new “pounds” class emphasizing workouts with handheld weight sticks.
When the weather warms up, the park will host a series of ever-popular outdoor events. The Mother’s Day Fashion Show features three-to-five year-olds strutting a runway in their own signature styles. July’s Backyard Bash will be a throwback to “those annual picnics that you always had when you were a kid,” says Guthrie. Last year’s event included a horseshoe toss, live music and corn on the cob. The Valentine’s Dance, Egg Hunt and July 4th rock-climbing competition are among other favorites returning in 2017.
Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park (Patton).
Grant Park “There will be a lot of temporary outdoor sculpture in Grant Park,” says GPC’s Bob O’Neill. “We have a new committee on that.” Kayak tour on the Chicago River (Patton).
Chicago Riverwalk After attracting 330,000 visitors and generating $8.5 million in revenue over the extended 2016 season, all of the Chicago Riverwalk vendors (except Dulce in Horto) have already confirmed their intentions to return in 2017. Offering food, drink, music and bike and kayak rentals, the vendors have obviously tapped into a market that Chicagoans enjoy.
The open-air gallery started with a giant “Buddha Head” that was installed near the skate park in October. It will expand with guidance from Sarah Rose Warman, GPC marketing director — an artist in her own right — who was appointed to lead the committee in 2016. The proposed Grant Park Green Fitness Space will also kick into high gear next year. Design concepts for the location, which got the green light in mid-2016, “went over really well” during a Decem-
ber GPC meeting, says O’Neill. “Our hope for 2017 is to get the money raised,” he explains. It seems likely that the community-minded wellness area will have little trouble raising an estimated $3 million to complete the project. “Reebok expressed interest and we just talked to them,” says O’Neill. “PlayPower is helping us a lot. They are the largest manufacturer of outdoor workout equipment. They worked with us on design.” The McCormick Bridgehouse & Museum in the southwest corner of the DuSable Bridge (at Michigan Avenue) kicks off for the season on the city’s annual “Chicago River Day,” May 13. “It’s our annual volunteer cleanup effort with our 2,500 volunteers covering the 156-mile Chicago River system,” says Joanne Dill, director of strategic initiatives at Friends of the Chicago River. “Sites are all over the region. There are even a few downtown, including the Bridgehouse Museum. It’s a great volunteer opportunity.” When the cleanup is done, it’s time for the fun. The Bridgehouse’s speaker series on the riverbank runs from July through August and covers “everything about the river,” says Dill. “Bridges, aquatic species, water quality, ‘swimmability,’ you name it.” The June Summer Cruise up the river and the August Asian Carp Cookout are scheduled for encores in 2017, as well. And September and October will again feature BYOB Brew & View events that include free admission and museum tours.
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
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New Eastside’s snow removal team
Dan Guardado prepares to remove New Eastside’s snow (Photo: Tricia Parker).
From page 1. By Tricia Parker | Staff Writer City foreman Mark Nichol and snowplow driver Dan Guardado, who routinely plows 620A, the route covering all three levels of New Eastside, are the neighborhood’s “snow sentinels,” making flurries and piles of snow disappear. I meet Nichol first, in his white Chevy Equinox. Lined up in front of him at Monroe and Columbus are a row of plows, eager to push. When the plows deploy, Nichol follows behind, flashing his lights. It is 9 a.m. on a December Friday morning, and a storm has been hovering all night.
“You keep rolling, we never stop,” says Nichol, 57, in a light blue fleece and jeans. Beeps and buzzes sound throughout the car, but Nichol is energized, not stressed. After driving a snowplow for 25-plus years, battling the elements is second nature to him, though New Eastside presents special challenges. “With all the buildings and hotels, people come and push snow into the street,” says Nichol. Yet the neighborhood nuisance leaves Nichol undeterred. “We don’t stop ’til everything’s done,” he says. A few minutes later, ready to do business in a black cap, sweatshirt and grey
work gloves, Guardado swings out in front of us, in plow S11735. Kindly, Nichol and Guardado have agreed to give me a quick tour of New Eastside, as long as the weather cooperates. I climb inside the cab, feeling, for the first time in my life, omnipotent against the snow. Despite driving a plow for 17 years, Guardado is equally giddy.
Guardado listens to classic ’70s rock and munches on chips, caramel corn and sub sandwiches. When I remark about the fact he’s been on the job since 10 p.m. “It’s not a big thing,” Guardado says, “You get used to it.”
“This is a good gig,” he says. “I wanted to get into this a long time. I love driving... you could say I’m a driving fool.”
“Not all trucks have this,” he says, as he pushes two red buttons on the truck’s black joystick, making the plow move up, down, left, right. Once again my snow-ignorance is exposed: I thought all snowplows were unidirectional, fixed in one spot.
Bumping along Lake Shore Drive, with Nichol following, I learn about Guardado’s past. He grew up near Taylor Street, where he was inspired by his father, a maintenance worker at St. Francis Church. His face lights up when he talks about memories of Mario’s Lemonade stand near his childhood home, though he says when he’s out on 620A all his thoughts are focused on work. “I think a lot about traffic, cars, cab drivers. They’re ridiculous. They think they own the street.” Guardado says he wishes drivers in front of Mariano’s would be more considerate when they park outside. To help ease the stress, and pass the time on 12-hour shifts,
As we round the bend into Lake Shore East Park, and my dropping-off point, Guardado shows off one of the snowplow’s fanciest features.
“That’s cool,” I say. “Very cool.” Before saying our good-byes, Guardado gives a mischievous smile and toots his horn in front of Bright Horizons at Lakeshore East preschool (360 E. South Water St.). Watching his powder-blue truck recede toward Columbus, I’m left with feelings of respect and appreciation. City workers might not always have sparkling reputations, but when it comes to New Eastside’s snow removal team, Nichol and Guardado are second to none.
Start the New Year with a little self-care
By Walter Miller | Community Contributor
After the hubbub of Christmas has faded to a fond memory, most of us begin to think about how we want to live the next 12 months. Should we lose a few (or more) pounds? Should we focus more on our kids? Should we get more education or a new job? Budget better or earn more? The list of possibilities is endless. But often it seems much easier to start than to continue with these good intentions. The same is true of self-care. Consistent self-caretaking can be a mixed experience. We are born with natural motives to survive and thrive.
However, over the years, many of us have negative and disruptive life experiences that can cause us to become discouraged or to actively disrupt our own carefully laid plans — and then be annoyed with ourselves for giving up. A great book for the general reader on this topic — Addicted to Unhappiness by Drs. William and Martha Heineman Pieper — offers a user-friendly understanding of this very common problem in life, while providing useful and enjoyable ways to better match your ideals for the New Year. If you can’t find the time to add an entire book to your busy schedule, here are some recommendations you can tackle right now:
• First, keep in mind that if you stick to your goals, you will feel better and enjoy life more. People actually do better if they are working for their own enjoyment — not just because
they “should.” Why not take pleasure in knowing that you really do care about yourself and want to improve? • Confide in a trusted friend or relative who shares your specific goals, is a reliable partner in the process and supports you no matter what. Very few people are inspired to change because of criticism — from outside or from within. • Pick specific tasks and goals that are realistically possible for you in your current physical and social condition and don’t overdo it (which could cause an injury that might slow your good progress). • If you backslide and miss your goal one day, try not to yell at yourself. Rather, just say, “I can try again tomorrow.” (Coach yourself as you would your best friend!)
• Keep a diary of your progress and look at it every week or two to get a real picture of how you’re doing, instead of basing your progress on one day. You can enjoy the overall progress this way. • Don’t give up or back away from your goals. Your goals are good and come from the very best human and innate part of your mind.
Here’s to a very Happy New Year to you and your family, however you define that. I wish you the very best in the next 12 months. And, with that in mind, please feel free to let me know if you would like me to address a specific concern in future articles — let’s make 2017 a good year, together! Walter D. Miller, LCSW, is a clinical social worker in New Eastside who specializes in children, adolescents and adults. He may be contacted at (312) 856-0230.
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JANUARY 2017 / 7
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Freezing frozen fun run By Angela Gagnon | Staff Writer Though it began as a grassroots effort in January 2010, the F^3 Lake Half Marathon has grown to accommodate thousands of hard-core running enthusiasts who don’t let a little cold weather stop them from racing 13.1 miles in Chicago — in January. This year’s F^3 Lake Half Marathon — and new 5K — will be on Saturday, January 28th. “This is a real ‘bucket list’ race, the perfect way to stay on track over the holidays and earn bragging rights,” says F^3 Founder and New Eastside resident Kimberley Stedman, who brought this unique event to life. How did this all begin? Stedman: After traveling to various
destinations for winter half marathons, my friends and I decided to create a “budget-friendly” fun run that followed the Magellan Half Marathon course. It started in Lakeshore East, and — that first year — race headquarters was my apartment in The Tides. We even had a beer sponsor provide a free pint to runners after the run. How was F^3 Events born? Stedman: Because we needed a permit to continue the fun run, I created F^3 Events LLC, which became an official company in 2011. Every year since, we have continued to grow, so in 2015, the winter half marathon officially moved to Soldier Field. Now we have use of the United Club for indoor gear check and race headquarters. What makes the F^3 Half Marathon special? Stedman: We are the original winter half marathon in Chicago! Our race, organized by an all-female team based in Chicago, offers a top-quality goodie
Running on the lakefront in the wintertime (alienginphotography.com.)
bag including a long-sleeve soft tech shirt, swag and a huge medal! We also work with local nonprofits who are the beneficiaries of the event. Is there anything new for 2017? Stedman: We are partnered with Chicago Endurance Sports, who will provide
Perspectives
Coach’s Corner: Time to battle the winter blues By Jon Cohn | Community Contributor Every good coach has to keep his team motivated, even in the toughest of times, like January in Chicago. In this week’s column we attempt to do just that — with an emphasis on attempt — as I realize we are indeed fighting a pretty stiff opponent here. I call it the “Jan Slam,” the post-holiday comedown, and boy it can hit hard — pow! — like a smack in the face. The thrill, excitement and general revelry of the holiday season is long gone. New Eastsiders are left wondering what we are to do to keep away the doldrums of early darkness and extended cold. But how to fight it? The key is not “holing up” in your home. Ya gotta get out and about. It’s hard. The temptation to stay in and
hunker down with the cold and wind outside is great indeed. But finding a way to be around people and activity is key. Try afterwork socializing, exercising at the gym, going shopping or out for a simple walk. Being out and about can lift the spirits. Visiting museums, people watching in the park or while sitting in your apartment lobby can also be effective. Basically, you should do anything, as long as you are around other people. It’s a battle no doubt. The “Jan Slam” can hit quickly and decisively — often when you least expect it.
pacers for the event this year. Want to register? Dust off your Yaktrax, unearth your arctic running clothes and visit www.F3Running.com. Use discount code MAGELLAN17 for $8 off the registration fee for either the half marathon or 5K.
Cute Pet Alert
So, remember Coach’s remedy — get out there and stay active and involved, and fight the blues by looking the month squarely in the face and saying, “Hey, January, that all you got?” Native Chicagoan Jon Cohn has worked as a high school coach, youth coach, recreational director, sports official and radio and TV sports announcer. Besides the New Eastside News, Cohn writes a weekly sports column for a suburban paper and has completed his first book, Stuff People Might Want To Know (From Someone Who Really Shouldn’t Be Writing A Book). Reilly is a seven-year-old Boxer Lab who moved to New Eastside from Arizona last year. Before becoming a full-time pet, he was the Director of Pet Relations at a high-rise in Santa Barbara, CA. Nowadays, he likes to snuggle and play, especially with his best friend, two-yearold Ryan, pictured in background. — Daniel Patton
8 / JANUARY 2017
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Staying true to your New Year’s resolutions — or not By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer
“I got a better job and I got a better apartment in a better location,” she says. “That and going home to visit.”
The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions dates back to the ancient Babylonians, but the modern practice of actually sticking to New Year’s resolutions rarely makes it to St. Patrick’s Day. We asked several New Eastsiders to share their personal methods for dealing with those often-champagne-enhanced vows.
Cameroonians, she says, take a casual approach to New Year’s Eve. “Some of them care and some of them don’t.” Although she has not yet decided exactly how she’ll welcome 2017, she’s confident that it will involve “watching the fireworks” from her new apartment. Triva Donnel (upper left) and shopping crew
Bill Prahofer
striction, Donnel stays healthy with an active lifestyle that includes “shopping with my granddaughters and purchasing dolls.” Her next stop: afternoon tea at the American Girl Place with daughter Tam and granddaughters Trinity, Rheagan and Jada.
“Every year, I make about five resolutions,” says Bill Prahofer, the owner of Buck’s Four Star Grill at Buckingham Fountain and Buck’s Café in Millennium Park. “I think that’s a right amount to try to achieve. I usually make four out of five. I never make the five.”
Cheryl Lewis
“My husband and I do something called the ‘Daniel Fast,’” says Cheryl Lewis, a freelance reporter who relocated to New Eastside from Atlanta with her husband, an architect, in March. “You kind of reset your eating schedule after the holiday craziness.”
Prahofer may not be batting a thousand, but he makes the hits count. “Usually, one’s about doing something for charity every year, so I do the Polar Plunge at North Avenue Beach, helping the Special Olympics,” he continues. He also stretches a resolution “to see the world” over the course of multiple years. “Last year,” he says, “I traveled to three different countries.”
Without the distraction of unachieved goals, he was free to pursue self-improvement year-round, strengthening his relationship with God and joining the Salvation Army. Harold currently mans the Red Kettle at Mariano’s on Benton Place. When not ringing, he performs song and dance routines.
“It resets some of your choices and gets [you] back to healthy eating,” Lewis explains.
And, this year, Lewis definitely didn’t break her resolution. “I liked it so well, the way that I felt after eating mostly grains, that I’ve been vegan for three months now.”
Harold stopped doing the New Year’s resolutions “about five years ago” because they never worked. “Every time I’d make one, I’d end up breaking it,” he says. Whether he vowed to live more prudently or end certain bad habits, his lifestyle remained unchanged. By rejecting the yardstick of progress, he found he removed the stigma of failure. “If you don’t have any rules, you can’t break them,” he explains.
Named in honor of the Jewish noble whom King Nebuchadnezzar imprisoned with a bunch of lions in Babylon, the Daniel Fast emphasizes cuisine that may have graced Mesopotamian meals three millennia ago. It’s heavy on grains and light on meat.
The couple has survived on the program for “two or three” Januarys. Lewis credits the diet’s effects for their success. “A lot of food has kind of an unfortunate aftermath where you hurt after you eat,” she explains. “Eating vegan, I don’t feel that way.”
Harold
Monique
Monique, a New Eastside resident and assistant in a construction firm, also finds success with the law of averages. “Every end of the year, I try to make a list of things I have to accomplish,” she says. “I work to accomplish them all, but generally accomplish about half.” 2016 is the best year she’s had since moving to Chicago seven years ago from Cameroon, where she was born.
Don’t want to make a bargain with 2017? You can always try the Argentinean way of celebrating, as explained by Marianela, a doctor of internal medicine on rotation at the University of Chicago. She was waiting for a friend at Mariano’s when she explained how the New Year is greeted in her homeland. “You get together with family and friends and toast for those things that you have achieved during the previous year,” she says. “My brother is about to be an architect, so we’ll cheer for that.” Unlike every other midnight countdown in her life, she’ll toast her brother with a “cheers” from the Midwest instead of a “salud” in the Southern Hemisphere. Ideally, it’ll happen downtown, “a quick bus ride” from her home in Hyde Park. “This is my first New Year’s outside of Argentina,” she says. “I want to figure out how Chicagoans have fun.”
Triva Donnel distinctly recalls her most successful NYE resolution. “In 2012, I vowed not to eat sugar,” she says. “It lasted about six months.” The retired grandmother from Louisville, who made a stop at Mariano’s before venturing to Michigan Avenue during a holiday shopping vacation, explained that sugarless victory was the result of sheer willpower. “I gave up all the unnatural sugars.” Although she has since lifted the re-
Marianela
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
JANUARY 2017 / 9
Aqua resident helps families at Ronald McDonald House By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer
When friends ask him about maintaining a positive attitude when there are “sick kids everywhere,” Shouger thinks of the community.
Over the course of his thirty-year career, New Eastside resident Mark Shouger has risen to the upper ranks of glamorous hotel chains that are recognized around the world. But it was not until he became director of the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s Hospital — operated by a staff of a mere ten full-time employees — that he “fell in love” with his job.
“[You] know that you’re a family and you did the best you could.” The house has also given him greater motivation for working night shifts, something that is common — though not often enjoyed — in the hospitality industry.
“It’s taking care of people,” he explains. “I get to see goodness every day.” Like all Ronald McDonald Houses, the facility at 211 E. Grand Ave. hosts and comforts patients and families who are undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. In this case, it’s Lurie Children’s, five blocks away from the location and accessible via the house’s 24-hour shuttle. The house is the largest of five in Illinois and the direct descendant of the original Chicago location that opened 40 years ago at the former Children’s Memorial in Lincoln Park.
“We can help and host 75 families a night,” Shouger says. “Grandparents, siblings. We have 66 individual Ronald McDonald rooms and nine family rooms. Our goal is to make it feel like home.” To achieve domestic warmth, the interior boasts an abundance of fireplaces, wood paneling and comfortable furniture. A TV area, a play area and a kitchen stocked with cakes, cookies and snacks complement the coziness. Art installations, stuffed animals and decorations donated by the house’s legion of supporters are an overflowing reminder that the Ronald McDonald House is home to a community. “The families themselves provide great support for one another,” Shouger explains. “Part of what we do, while they’re staying here, is [act as] a distraction. We want them to worry about taking care of their child, nothing else.”
In many cases, the families form relationships that continue long after treatment ends. “It’s not unusual for a baby or child who does well, they’ll come back on their birthday,” he continues. “The whole family says ‘we want to show the baby where we stayed.’” Before joining the Ronald McDonald House, Shouger was general manager of Chicago’s Wit Hotel. During his time there, he formed a “Hospitality Council” with several GMs from the city’s upscale hospitality community. They volunteered their expertise to the Ronald McDonald House, and this is where he began to discover the “purposeful and heartfelt” nature of the work.
“One time we had a ton of boxes of macaroni and cheese,” he remembers. “So I looked up National Macaroni Day and, on the night before, we put a note on each box and left them at each door. There was one boy who was battling cancer in a wheelchair with a mask on. He said that when he looked out the door, he was so happy. Macaroni was his favorite thing in the world.” Left: Ronald McDonald House offers toys to guests. Center: Mark Shouger, managing director of the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s Hospital. Below: The dining area. (Patton)
“When I was a volunteer, a girl donated all her birthday gifts to the house,” he remembers. “They still had cards with her name. She never even opened them.”
How to make increased interest rates work for homebuyers and sellers By Urban Real Estate Last month, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate for only the second time since 2008. This federal interest rate is used by lending institutions and banks as a guideline to determine what they will charge consumers to borrow money
in all areas, including for auto loans, student loans, credit cards and, of course, mortgages. While the impact of the 0.25 percentage point increase will vary and it may take time for us to feel its ripple effect, there are many factors to consider, especially regarding home loans. The Fed has suggested that interest rates will continue to rise, and understanding how this will impact homeowners is key to knowing your home buying and selling power. “Housing affordability and accessibility becomes an issue as interest rates begin to climb,” says
Matt Farrell, managing broker at the New Eastside brokerage Urban Real Estate. “When money costs more for someone to borrow, the price point that they may ultimately be able to afford changes, as well.” “When we work with clients on either the buy or sell side, we assess what their ultimate goals are,” adds Farrell. “We work to determine if there might be an opportunity to price a home they are selling compellingly, if they are getting a stellar deal on the one they are purchasing. Really being aware of your goals — and working through your big-picture investment planning with
a broker — allows you both to make strong, seasoned decisions that can be sound and strategic.” If you are considering selling, or are a renter considering your options before your spring or summer lease ends, now is the time to help get your “credit house” in order, and maximize the opportunity to make your money go further. To learn more about how the Urban Real Estate team works with its clients to create the right plan for them, contact Matt Farrell at (312) 528-9299 or email matt.farrell@urbanre.com.
10 / JANUARY 2017
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Events
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
Ongoing Events
Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave. · (312) 443-3600 www.artic.edu January 7 - 15 Lion Hunters Explore 19th-century Paris’s fascination with lions and tigers through some of the era’s greatest animal artists. Free on Thursdays. Gallery 220A. Exhibition closes Jan. 15. Free days at the Adler, Field Museum, and Art Institute Illinois residents with valid proof of residence receive free general admission or discounted upgraded admission to the Adler Planetarium, Field Museum and Art Institute, when they purchase on-site. Adler Planetarium: Jan. 6 - 13 Art Institute: Thursdays, 5 - 8 p.m. Shedd Aquarium: Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
January 6-7 Soul Message Band at Winter’s Blind jazz organist Chris Foreman demonstrates a Hammond B3 virtuosity with drummer Greg Rockingham and guitarist Lee Rothenberg. $20. 8, 9:30 and 11 p.m. Winter’s Jazz Club, 465 N. McClurg Ct., (312) 3441270, www.wintersjazzclub.com
Tuesday, January 10 Bottomless Bowl at Lucky Strike $20 all-you-can-bowl special helps Tuesday nights roll by much faster! Drink specials included, too. $20. 9 p.m. 322 E. Illinois St., (312) 245-8331, www.bowlluckystrike.com
Saturday, January 14 Badass Winter Tour New tour begins in the Fairmont, features fun facts about Aqua, Aon, Maggie Daley Park and more. $20. 1-2:30 p.m. 40 W. Lake Street, 773-593-4873 www.chicagoelevated.com/thebestchicagowalkingtours
Saturday, January 21 WTTW’s Youth Voice and Vision Screening/Discussion
GEMS World Academy Chicago
January 19 - January 29
ADMISSION TOUR & CHAT WITH
HEAD OF SCHOOL Get to know GEMS World Academy and speak with head of school Kim Wargo. Mondays, Noon — 1:15 p.m. Individual tours available (312) 809-8910 350 E. South Water St. www.gemsworldacademy.com
CAPS meeting
Meet and discuss neighborhood issues with residents of the New Eastside and police who patrol the area. Free. 7 p.m. Thursday January 12. 400 E. Randolph St., (312) 856-9526, www.ward42chicago.com
January 13 - 15
Much more than sock-covered hands, the 2nd annual International Puppet Theater Festival features performances by more than 25 artists from seven different countries. Enjoy marionettes, shadow puppets, Bunraku (Japanese) puppets, toy puppets and more! January 21-22 Portmanteau Check out Southwest-inspired handcrafted puppets and diorama-like set pieces in this walk-through exhibition. Free. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St. January 21-22 Festival Neighborhood Tour Enjoy 18 free 50-minute performances at six locations, including shows at Navy Pier and the Chicago Cultural Center: Navy Pier — Saturday, January 21 Free. 2, 3 and 4 p.m. 600 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago Cultural Center — Sunday, January 22 Free. 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 78 E. Washington St. January 26-January 29 Feathers of Fire: A Persian Epic A visually breathtaking cinematic shadow play for all ages! The play unfolds an action-packed magical tale of star-crossed lovers from the 10th-century Persian epic “Shahnameh” (“The Book of Kings”). $30-40. (various showtimes) 70 min. running time. Studebaker Theater 410 S. Michigan Ave. www.chicagopuppetfest.org/event/ feathers-of-fire
www.chicagopuppetfest.org · 312-977-9483
Polar Adventure Days Special World Series Championship celebration with players, coaches and alumni. $410 and up (3-day pass) Sheraton Chicago 301 E. North Water St. www.crosstowntickets.com Two short films produced by teens: “Nia & Nia,” about a homeless high school senior; “Ubuntu: The Peace Exchange,” a journey to South Africa. Free. 2-4:30 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., (312) 744-6630, www.cityofchicago.org
Sunday, January 22 Yoga and Brunch at Pinstripes Pinstripes’ “Bends and Blends” event combines yoga, brunch and a game of bowling or bocce (if you’ve got the energy). 9 a.m.
Monday, January 23 “A World in Disarray” Lecture Council on Foreign Relations president Richard N. Haass discusses U.S. strategies for coping with global instability. $10-20. 6-7:15 p.m., Chicago Council on Global Affairs Conference Center, 130 E. Randolph St., (312) 726-3860, www.thechicagocouncil.org
Wednesday, January 25 Encounter wolves, Siberian huskies and birds of prey. Explore Northerly Island on snowshoes (snow permitting). Free. Noon-4 p.m. Northerly Island, 1521 S. Linn White Dr., (312) 745-2910, www.chicagoparkdistrict.com $5 for class (includes $5 off brunch). 435 E. Illinois St., (312) 527-3010, www.pinstripes.com
“Micro-apartments” Talk Award-winning architect Susan King discusses the amazing benefits of small spaces. $5. Noon-1:15 p.m., Lecture Hall at the Chicago Architecture Foundation, 224 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 922-3432, www.architecture.org
January 27-January 29 SoxFest Sox fans finally get their day in the sun through autograph sessions, Q-and-A
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JANUARY 2017 / 11
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Events
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
New Eastside Neighbors Meetup Thursday, January 5
Ice Skating & Dinner at Seven Get to know your neighbors over an evening skate and dinner at one of the neighborhood’s coziest restaurants. 6:30 p.m., $12 skate rental Maggie Daley Fieldhouse 337 E. Randolph St. Sunday, January 29
AquaMermaid Fitness Class Learn to swim like a mermaid with an actual life-size tail! Class will cover solo and synchronized swimming basics. Great for both adults and kids. 2:30 -3:30 p.m. $20. Lakeshore Sport and Fitness 211 N. Stetson Ave. www.meetup.com/ Lakeshore-East-New-Eastside-Neighbors
seminars, and more. $10 and up. Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., 312-674-1000, www. chicago.whitesox.mlb.com
Saturday, January 28 Polar Plunge Run — or waddle — into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan for a good cause: to help a family in need. $30. Noon. Oak Street Beach, 1000 N. Lake Shore Dr., www.chicagopolarbearclub.com/register
Tuesday, January 31 Chinese New Year Kickoff Celebration Power up your lunch hour with a special showcase by Jackie Chan’s Long Yun Kung Fu Troupe from Beijing. Happy Year of the Rooster! Free. Noon-2 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., (312) 744-6630, www.cityofchicago.org
Harris Theatre Navy Pier Events
MIX at SIX Streb Extreme Action Elizabeth Streb and her Action Heroes demonstrate extreme courage in careening through, around and above obstacles. Perfect for kids! $10. January 13 - 6 p.m. January 14 - 2 p.m. Christiane Karg, Adam Plachetka and Lindsay Metzger A one-night-only virtuoso performance featuring some of the greatest operatic voices in our generation. Repertoire includes jazz, Broadway and more. $60-$150. January 19 - 7:30 p.m. Last Work: Batsheva Dance Company The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center presents its annual performance of Bach’s “Six Concertos for Various Instruments.” $25-$55. December 19 - 7:30 p.m. HARRIS THEATER 205 E. Randolph Street · (312) 334-7777 www.harristheaterchicago.org.
CHICAGO
JANUARY RACES Coming out of the winter weight-gain boot camp affectionately called “the holidays,” why not head out for a race with your New Year’s resolution still fresh in mind? Take part in F^3’s half marathon, organized by New Eastside resident Kimberley Stedman, or climb up the iconic Aon Center to raise money for Lurie Children’s Hospital. Chicago Polar Dash Half Marathon Saturday, Jan. 7 · 9 a.m. Grant Park F^3 Lake Half Marathon & 5K Saturday, Jan. 28 · 10 a.m. Soldier Field Aon Step-Up for Kids Sunday, Jan. 29 · 8 a.m. Aon Center
Navy Pier hosts three events guaranteed to shake your winter slump. On January 26th, toast the city’s culinary scene at the First Bites Bash, the official kickoff to Restaurant Week. During the weekend, dream big at the Ideal Home Show and sample craft beers at Chicago Ale Fest.
Thursday, January 26
First Bites Bash
Enjoy savory and sweet bites from more than 60 of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. $95-$125. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Navy Pier, Aon Grand Ballroom www.navypier.com
January 27-29
Ideal Home Show
Get serious inspiration for your spring renovation projects, from the region’s top home design experts. $5-10. Jan. 27 — 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 28 — 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan 29 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 312-595-7437 www.idealhomeshow.com
Saturday, January 28
Chicago Ale Fest
Celebrate America’s thriving craft beer scene with 150 of the nation’s best brews. $20-$60. Session 1 — Noon to 4 p.m. Session 2 — 6-10 p.m. Navy Pier, Aon Grand Ballroom (630) 450-4193 www.chicagoalefest.com
January 27 - February 9
Chicago Restaurant Week Three New Eastside favorites join more than 350 participating restaurants across the city. Reservations recommended. Visit www.eatitupchicago.com Tavern at the Park $33 - Prix Fixe Dinner Menu 130 E. Randolph St. Columbus Tap $33 - Prix Fixe Dinner Menu 130 E. Randolph St. III Forks $44 - Prix Fixe Dinner Menu 180 N. Field Blvd.
Neighborhood Specials The Palm Primetime Half off Palm Bar’s Prime Bites menu, Sunday through Friday 4-6 p.m. Swissôtel, 323 E. Upper Wacker Dr. (312) 616-1000, thepalm.com/Chicago MingHin Happy Hour 20 percent off all menu items, Monday through Friday 2:30-5 p.m. MingHin, 333 E. Benton Pl. (312) 228-1333, minghincuisine.com III Forks Happy Hour $1 oysters and half off draft cocktails and draft beer, daily 4-6 p.m. 180 N. Field Blvd., (312) 938-4303 3forks.com/chicago Park Grill 5/5/5 Thursdays $5 draft beers, $5 wine by the glass, and $5 specialty cocktails 5-8 p.m., Thursday Park Grill, 11 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 521-7275, parkgrillchicago.com Winter’s Jazz Club Happy hour specials Tuesday - Thursday 5:30 - 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday 5:30 - 8 p.m. 465 N. McClurg Ct., (312) 3441270, www.wintersjazzclub.com
12 / JANUARY 2017
340 ON THE PARK
340 E Randolph St.
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
▪
OUTER DRIVE EAST
2 Bed / 2 Bath
400 E Randolph St.
▪
Studio / 1 Bath
Large home with private balcony & southern, unobstructed views of lake, parks. $1,589,000
Incredible south-facing convertible with sunny 18 ft. balcony overlooking parks & lake. $335,000
THE CHANDLER
THE LEGACY
450 E Waterside Dr.
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1 Bed / 1 Bath
60 E Monroe St.
Fabulous modern and bright home with private balcony offering harbor & lake views. $418,000
400 E Randolph ▪ Suite 500
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3 Bed / 21/2 Bath
Stunning home rarely available with 10 ft. ceilings & sweeping city, park, & lake views. $1,249,900
312 ▪ 528 ▪ 9200
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