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Wanda penthouse among city’s highest-priced units Page 9
A rendering of the Wanda Vista Tower by Studio Gang Architects (left); construction of the tower base by McHugh Construction (right).
Flower & Garden Show returns to Navy Pier Page 4
Things to do spring 2017 Page 10
Bucky the squirrel a tourist attraction Page 9
2 / MARCH 2017
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
NEWS How to Contact Us info@ neweastsidecommunity.com (312) 690-3092
By Tricia Parker | Staff Writer
Harris Theater appoints new CEO
Managing Editor: Daniel Patton dpatton@ neweastsidecommunity.com
Going forward, GEMS sports teams will be known as “The Dragons.” This is the first time in its three-year history that GEMS has had a mascot.
Copy Editors: Rebecca Baldwin, Kari Greczek Layout/Design: Daniel Patton
Staff Writers: Angela Gagnon, Tricia Parker 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 ©2017. All rights reserved.
GEMS World Academy’s new dragon mascot
“We’ve had a very positive response to our mascot,” says Demma about the ice-blue dragon. With its flattened ears and pointy wings, the new mascot inspires courage and willpower. “The dragon provides an apt symbol for the risk-taking, thoughtful and entrepreneurial spirit of our students, faculty, parents and community,” says Demma.
Editor: Elaine Hyde info@neweastsidecommunity.com
Community Contributors: Jon Cohn, Matthew Reiss, Ben Cirrus, Walter Miller, Rebecca Baldwin, Elizabeth Johnston, Reemaa Konkimalla, Shanti Nagarkatti
of its Upper School opening this fall.
Paul Organisak (Harris Theater)
The Harris Theater has named Paul Organisak president and CEO, ending the 12-year tenure of former President and Managing Director Michael Tiknis. Organisak previously served as vice president of programming for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, where he oversaw a wide range of performance, including dance, theater and cabaret performances. His 30-year career also includes stints at Dance Umbrella (Boston), the American College Dance Festival Association (ACDFA) and the Pittsburgh Dance Council. “I am honored and thrilled to join the [Harris] team,” says Organisak. “Its status as a . . . cultural jewel of Chicago drew me immediately to this position.” Opened in November 2003, the Harris hosts the “most diverse offerings of any venue in Chicago,” according to a company press release, partnering with more than 35 performing arts organizations across the city.
GEMS hosts mascot contest GEMS World Academy’s new dragon mascot, which debuted in December, is still missing one important thing. “We hope to have a name by the first week of March,” says Marketing Coordinator Ashley Demma, adding that GEMS is sponsoring an online contest seeking a moniker for the mascot. GEMS created the new mascot in advance
Urban Kayaks’ James Morro elected president of water safety group
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New Eastside Neighbors group tops 500 members The New Eastside/Lakeshore East Neighbors Meetup group, a neighborhood organization founded in September 2016, has rapidly grown to nearly 550 members, as of early March. “I see the personal and professional value of bringing neighbors together for friendship and camaraderie,” says New Eastside resident Tom Besore, who stepped up as organizer of the group in February. “[I] love to use the Internet as a tool to get people off the Internet and build real-world friendships the old-fashioned way — by meeting people in our own neighborhood.” Besore is the organizer of the highly successful Windy City Explorers group, which has more than 7,100 members. New Eastside Neighbors typically meets between two and three times per month, at different locations around the neighborhood. Attendees must register through Meetup.com. Events so far have included skating at Maggie Daley skate ribbon, a Chinese New Year lunch at MingHin and a Valentine’s Day dinner at Pinstripes.
James Morro (Urban Kayaks)
James Morro, one of three owners at Urban Kayaks, has been elected president of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee (CHSC), a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring the safety of Chicago’s waterways. Formed in 2013, the committee’s geographic area includes the Chicago River and the entire Chicago lakefront. “We all deeply care about the waterway and how it works …. the relationship among everybody,” says Morro. “I’m happy to step up and contribute.” Morro says the CHSC includes “at least 20” stakeholders from nine different sectors. In his one-year term as president, Morro says he will be especially committed to smoothing the waters between large and small crafts. “The relationship with kayak operators and barge companies was a little rocky to say the least,” Morro says, adding that in recent months the CHSC has earned accolades for its spirit of collaboration.
To see the latest New Eastside Neighbors events, visit: www.meetup.com/Lakeshore-East-New-Eastside-Neighbors
New carpet for Hyatt Pedway A corner of the New Eastside Pedway has transformed from “plain” to “posh” after the Hyatt Regency installed plush new carpeting in February. “Now you’ve got the feeling you’re still in the hotel when you walk in the hotel,” says Thomas Feilen, senior director of engineering for the Hyatt Regency. The beige-colored carpeting, ordered from luxury Taiwanese carpet manufacturer Tai Ping, features crisscrossing strips of brown, blue and gold. It stretches from the western portion of the 303 E. Randolph corridor to near the entrance of Spa Di La Fronza salon. “I like it; it warms [the Pedway] up,” says Spa Di La Fronza owner Frank La Continued on page 3.
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Continued from page 2. Fronza. “I don’t hear much noise, not too many women in high heels,” he laughs. In November, Hyatt also added 28 additional meeting rooms in the Pedway space, as well as new ceilings, new wall coverings and new finishings. Feilen says the “final” step is installing permanent signage from the ceiling, directing users to certain rooms. “I think it’s very huge,” says Feilen, about the renovations. “For eight or 10 years a large portion of the Pedway …. looked like it was impoverished. Now you walk through there and it’s a lively, brightly lit, occupied space. It does a lot for the complex.”
Cloud Gate’s “blue cage” still in limbo
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
using “Summer Vault” for commerce. On a late February weeknight, what looked like brown animal tracks covered the floor of “Summer Vault,” next to leaves and sticks. Scuff marks dotted the walls and peeling paint could be spotted on “Summer Vault’s” screens, exposing black metal. Black plastic zip ties secured the front and back doors. “They’re supposed to have formal locking mechanisms,” said Preissner. “Because it’s in Chase Promenade there’s a lot of limitation as to what they can do in terms of service. They don’t want any construction occurring.”
After a series of setbacks, the status of a 12-foot-wide blue domed sculpture in Millennium Park is uncertain. The sculpture, called “Summer Vault” is located near the south east corner of Cloud Gate and was due to be removed in April 2016. “It seems entirely forgotten by anyone who could do something about it,” says architect Paul Preissner, designer of “Summer Vault.” Originally designed to be a lakefront food kiosk, “Summer Vault” was selected by the 2015 Chicago Architecture Biennial while still incomplete. “There were still parts of the designs that weren’t finished,” says Preissner, who says that an interior table and cabinetry would make it more “functional” as a service kiosk. Restrictions on food vendors in Millennium Park eliminated the option of
Sophia Wong (Asian Pop-Up Cinema)
For now, the city is still cagey about where “Summer Vault” will go. “I’m not sure how long it will remain,” says DCASE spokesperson Mary May.
Tickets are $10 for regular screenings and $15 for films with special Q&As.
Crown Fountain undergoes repairs
Members of the New Eastside Neighbors Meetup receive a discount for the March 29 screening of “My Egg Boy” with the discount code ESmeetup.
A city spokesperson says Millennium Park’s Crown Fountain is getting more than its usual winter repairs this season. “Summer Vault” (Patton)
“We are like a little soldier,” says festival director Sophia Wong, about the fast-growing festiva in its third year.
Wong emphasized the festival’s focus on dramas versus martial arts films, saying that the programming “moves beyond stereotypes.” Wong says AMC and the Cultural Center appealed as festival anchors for their proximity to a “large” population of Asian professionals. Other screenings will take place at smaller venues downtown.
“Summer Vault” was due to be shipped to Chicago’s Washington Park last April, but Alderman Leslie Hairston (5th) blocked the move, after constituents complained about “Summer Vault’s” size.
“Several granite and glass blocks are being repaired, and the technology is being upgraded,” says DCASE spokesperson Mary May. Clear plastic tarps encase each fountain, while blue fencing blocks off the pedestrian area in between.
www.asianpopupcinema.org/tickets
Light-up seesaws coming to Navy Pier Fifteen glow-in-the-dark seesaws will be coming to Navy Pier’s Polk Bros. Park from March 10 to May 12. The seesaws produce an audible tone when they teeter.
May says the Michigan Avenue fountains, completed in 2004, will be turned on around April 15.
The installation, called “Impulse,” toured a handful of cities, including Brussels, London and Montreal, before settling down in Chicago.
Asian film fest begins three-month run
City Winery debuts Riverwalk domes
The Asian Pop-Up Cinema film festival will return to AMC Theatres and the Cultural Center this month, bringing the Far East to within walking distance of Lakeshore East.
City Winery says it will open three heated private domes on the Riverwalk, available for sipping wine under the skyline at $100-$150. The seethrough domes will be open March 17-April 30 and include a carafe of wine, cheese and charcuterie.
From March until May, the festival will present 18 films from seven countries, including Mongolia, China, Vietnam and Tibet. Ten of the screenings will be free.
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Sessions last 90 minutes. The domes, open from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, can accommodate groups of two to six. www.citywinery.com/chicago
GEMS World Academy Chicago opens children's minds to the world around them — down the street and around the globe. Field Studies to Chicago's museums and research institutions bring classroom units of inquiry to life, where students have access to scientists and experts in their fields. Add in technology-enabled collaborations with students at GEMS campuses abroad,and no two days are the same for GEMS students. Beginning with a new preschool program for 3-year-olds, our International Baccalaureate primary years and middle years programs immerse students in inquiry-based learning that nurtures curiosity, citizenship, and global perspectives to create lifelong learners and future leaders.
RSVP for our Open House
3/25
Contact our admissions office at 312-809-8910 or admissions@gemschicago.org
gemschicago.org/eastside
4 / MARCH 2017
Community Contributors NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
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Flower & Garden Show brings spring to Navy Pier small spaces can get great ideas for their apartment or condo.”
From March 18-26, the Flower and Garden Show will bloom at Navy Pier, giving our early spring weather a colorful kick. Show director Tony Abruscato, who lives in The Tides, says this year’s show is especially well suited to New Eastsiders. “A lot of the focus this year is on edible gardening and small space and container gardening,” he says. “It’s great for people living in New Eastside. [Those with] balconies and
Now in its 170th year, this horticultural heaven, sponsored by Mariano’s, features 23 display gardens, 30 culinary demonstrations and more than 100 workshops and seminars. The sprawling Home and Garden Marketplace gives serious gardeners a chance to browse fresh-cut flowers, bulbs and gardening supplies from more than 100 exhibitors. New this year is the Fleurotica couture show March 17, which pairs flowers and fashion. “All the clothing is made from live plant material,” says Abruscato. “It’s Rose Parade meets ‘Project Runway.’” Mini flower fanatics won’t want to miss the Kids’ Activity Garden and Butterfly Garden, while grown-up green thumbs can learn to spruce up office space in Garden #4, “Blooming in the Office.” Other gardens include
“Tulips Blooming” is one of 23 featured gardens at this year’s show. (Chicago Fower & Garden Show)
“World Series Cubs Tribute” (Garden #15), featuring the Cubs logo spelled out in chrysanthemums, and “Health and Healing Garden” (#5). “If you want to escape snow and cold
DOORPERSON OF THE MONTH ERIC GATES, THE LANCASTER and records around the country. The group’s performances have generated close to a million views on YouTube. On regular Sundays for the past sixteen years, he has been singing at Resurrected Life Church International, a place of worship on West Fullerton Boulevard. with an immense dedication to the surrounding community and seperate ministries for children, youth, young professionals, seniors, women and more. When he’s not singing or working, Eric occasionally visits friends in New Eastside, especially to watch the fireworks during holidays.
Eric Gates (Photo: Daniel Patton)
By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer Throughout the week, Eric Gates maintains a calm and professional demeanor while doing his job as doorperson at The Lancaster, where he has been employed since 2010. But on Sundays, it’s a different story. “I sing gospel,” he says. “I’ve been singing my whole life.” The inspiration started when he was barely able to walk.
“My first church I ever belonged to was Wesley Chapel,” he says. “It was a small church. My mom used to take me there. I was in the choir when I started, probably about three or four years old.”
But he mostly prefers to spend time with his wife and children. “I’ve been married for seven years to a wonderful woman,” he says.
“I love my kids. They’re funny, man. His devotion has held strong ever since. They keep you young. They do all the goofy stuff that you did. They’re in the “I stuck with the choir because it was a children’s choir.” passion,” he explains. “I love singing.” Eric is a member of Ricky Dillard and the New Generation Chorale, a nationally recognized ensemble that travels
To nominate your doorperson, email info@ neweastsidecommunity.com
winter... it’s a great way to experience spring, even if you’re not a gardener,” says Abruscato. $10-16 ($5 for kids) visit www.chicagoflower.com/tickets
Community Contributors
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Perspectives
Why does Chicago smell like dessert? By Matthew Reiss | Community Contributor Late one night last year, as I walked home from the State and Lake train station, I encountered a mystery that I have only recently solved. As I made my way across Michigan Avenue, I smelled the alluring scent of chocolate brownies. I remember thinking, “Some nearby bakery is getting an oddly early start on the day.” But as I
continued my walk up the hill to Columbus Avenue, then back down into Lake Shore East Park, the sweet scent (seemingly impossibly) lingered.
No. I checked. Unsure of what had transpired, I was at least happy that for one shining moment, Chicago smelled like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.
Even the irresistible scent of Garrett Popcorn’s Chicago Mix only emanates a block or so from the store. How had this chocolate fragrance followed me for a half mile? Had I accidentally dipped my sleeve into a chocolate fountain?
A short time later, the delicious perfume struck me again as I strolled down the Riverwalk. I smiled with glee as I walked, the scent following me all the way to Merchandise Mart – in fact, growing perceptively stronger along the way. Chicago had become Choco-Land; not some bleak big city with open sewers and pollution, but a wondrous fairyland of desserts and decadent calories. My childhood was spent in residences near paper mills and horse farms – never have I lived in proximity to such a pleasing bouquet of smells. But what was the source? A little Internet sleuthing gave me the answer. The incredible aromatic perk bestowed upon our neighborhood emanates from Blommer Chocolate Company, located just northwest of the Loop. When the chocolate is being made, and the winds blow in from the west, our world becomes a heavenly place to dwell.
Cute Pet Alert
Hayley Terrier on Wacker Dr. (Patton)
Hayley the Terrier, who turned two last September, was adopted from a shelter by a dog-loving New Eastsider. “They brought her out to me,” explains her owner, Penny. “My son and his kids went with me and we decided that Hayley was kinda good.” After settling into her new high-rise home, Hayley developed a knack for “chasing her own shadow” and “saying hi to everybody.” “She’s very affectionate,” Penny continues. “She sits on my lap a lot and crawls up on the bed with me.” — Daniel Patton
“Coach” Jon Cohn’s
NEW EASTSIDE
Daley Plaza Nighttime lights edge out daytime action.
Navy Pier Fireworks Wildberry Chocolate chip pancakes put up a tough fight.
Chicago Marathon
Lincoln Park Zoo The laughing comes to a halt.
The Second City
Lollapalooza Young music fans sway the voters.
Field Museum
Navy Pier Fireworks Close call, but hard to argue with 300,000 runners.
Millennium Park
March Madness
Millennium Park
In honor of “March Madness,”we here at New Eastside News have put together brackets for a single-elimination tournament of the top local attractions.
Chicago Marathon
Chicago lakefront
Chicago Marathon Lincoln Park Zoo literally gets run over.
Chicago Marathon
Chicago lakefront
“Singing the Blues” but still a great show
Lincoln Park Zoo The Zoo comes through with an upset run.
Lollapalooza
The Great Lake shows fans how it got the name.
Chicago lakefront
Blues Fest Lincoln Park Zoo
Blues Fest
THE WINNER
CHICAGO LAKEFRONT
The Marathon had a nice run, but was there ever a doubt?
Upset! Sadly, no “flying the W” in this tournament.
Wrigley Field
Neighborly battle goes to the park.
Tavern at the Park
The Art Institute Two great views but only one winner.
Chicago lakefront
Blues Fest Blues Fest proceeds to the Elite Eight.
Aqua Hotel
Wrigley Field Veteran knocks off rookie.
Maggie Daley Park
6 / MARCH 2017
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Is New Eastside meteorite-ready? By Tricia Parker | Staff Writer
thing a lot smaller could cause damage if it came directly over the city. A sonic boom—the blast of air—from a meteorite in Chelyabinsk, Russia, was so intense it broke many windows and sent 1,600 people to the hospital.
In the early morning hours of February 6, a two-foot-wide meteorite streaked across downtown Chicago, leaving a bright green trail in its wake. The meteorite took a northeast trajectory before plunging off the coast of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, about 150 miles away.
TP: Has a meteor ever hit Chicago? MH: In 2003, there was a bright meteor in the sky, and then rocks started falling over Chicago’s south suburbs. Some hit houses and cars.
While Chicago is protected from most natural disasters, it remains vulnerable to a meteorite strike.
TP: Joy, what would be the challenges for helping the New Eastside through a major meteor strike?
I asked two local experts, Dr. Mark Hammergren, astronomer and meteorite specialist at the Adler Planetarium, and Joy Squires, Chief Communications Officer of the American Red Cross Chicago Region, what would happen if Chicago were struck by a meteorite. TP: Mark, should we be worried? MH: Is this something to be concerned about? No. Bright meteors are rare from any given location. A meteor leaves a streak of light in the sky; a meteorite is a rock that drops to earth. Although a woman in Alabama was struck by meteorites as she lay sleep-
While Chicago is protected from most natural disasters, it remains vulnerable to a meteorite strike. Image composited by New Eastside News for this story — not an actual photo.
ing in a sofa in her living room. TP: Can you say what would happen if a larger asteroid hit the lake? MH: A tsunami [would be] possible.
That is a concern for midsize asteroids, something [between] 100 and 1,000 feet could generate a wave that could cause damage. That said, some-
JS: With any concentrated area, there are challenges to helping people just look out. With Hurricane Sandy in downtown New York, [it was] “How do we work in the high-rises and get food up to people”... and the elevators being out. We also wouldn’t know where the shelter area would be... decisions would have to be made in the moment. TP: Is there anything New Eastsiders can do to feel less helpless? JS: Be informed. Get the Red Cross emergency app; it tells you where shelters are and what they need.
React Physical Therapy opens new location at Village Market proximity to parks and recreational areas.”
By Shanti Nagarkatti | Staff Writer Anyone in need of postsurgical rehabilitation or help with a sports injury now has a convenient treatment option in New Eastside. On January 9, React Physical Therapy opened its fourth Chicago location at the Village Market. Franco Calabrese, PT, DPT, clinic manager, said he appreciates a number of aspects of the neighborhood, especially the “community atmosphere and
The business offers physical therapy, strength and conditioning training, massage therapy and athletic training. Rather than focus on the site of an injury, React treats the whole body, using proprietary methods developed by founder David Reavy to remedy underlying imbalances that cause pain. “If your body isn’t treated as a whole, you run the risk of having the same injury again, or worse,” says Calabrese. What sets React apart is its one-onone approach. “The first session lasts an hour, to establish a baseline. Subsequent sessions focus on hands-on treatment with a physical therapist,” Calabrese explains, adding, “You’re not just stuck in a corner doing exercises.” Patients “run the gamut from high school athletes to people in their 80s,”
React Physical Therapy at the Village Market (Nagarkatti)
he said. As the official NFL Combine Training Partner, React also counts professional athletes, including Bears’ running back Matt Forte and Bulls’ center Joakim Noah, among its patients. A common misconception is that pain
is a prerequisite for going to a physical therapist. Calabrese says “anyone looking to get past mental blocks when training, improve performance, and meet goals” can benefit. 312-929-3646 · www.bereact.com 333 E. Benton Place, Unit 108
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MARCH 2017 / 7
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
The Gene Siskel Film Center rolls into March with the European Union Film Festival By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer
the African Diaspora” that takes place every August.
The Gene Siskel Film Center will host North America’s “largest showcase of European Union cinema” from March 3 - March 30. Screening 62 movies from 28 countries, it is the Center’s 20th annual celebration of motion pictures from across the pond.
The annual gala in June occupies one of the city’s four-star hotels and honors the achievements of film greats. Past honorees in attendance have included Alan Arkin, George Lucas, Felicity Huffman, Robert Downey Jr., Jamie Foxx and Reese Witherspoon.
Besides helping to “broaden peoples’ minds and perspectives,” says Associate PR Director Karen Durham, select films will be accompanied by special appearances, panel discussions and Q&A sessions. Providing access to group discussions and filmmaker insight also serves as a great way to help moviegoers “get past the whole movie-with-a-subtitle situation,” she continues. Connecting audiences with artists — and with one another — is part of what makes the Gene Siskel Film
And for those who just want to watch a movie, the Siskel Center delivers in style and within budget.
Hosts Tommy Walton and NK Gutiérrez at Siskel Center’s “Hollywood on State” event. (Patton)
Center a successful community-minded venue. In addtion to showing approximately 1,600 movies and welcoming about 200 directors annually, the center also hosts a series of celebrations to kick up the social aspect of moviegoing.
The annual “Hollywood on State” event is a catered, black-tie Oscar viewing party and Academy Awards telecast that fills the Center’s lobby, café and two HD theaters to capacity. The Black Harvest Film Festival is a “vibrant showcase of new work from
Tickets for all films at the Center are $11 ($8 for the 2 p.m. Friday matinee). The snack bar is loaded with favorites, including a choice of white or red wine and a robust selection of beers. Concessions are permitted in the theater, which is equipped with some of Chicago’s roomiest and cushiest chairs. 164 N. State St. · (312) 846-2800 www.siskelfilmcenter.org
How to recover successfully from trauma and block it from our memory. As a result, we don’t share it with anyone. This does not mean that it goes away. A very commonly recognized result of unmourned trauma is post-traumatic stress disorder. Unmourned trauma can cause major difficulties in life such as anxiety, depression or dependence on self-soothing substances such as drugs or alcohol.
By Walter Miller | Community Contributor We all suffer trauma at some time in our lives. It may be a small trauma, such as falling in love with the boy or girl in your seventh-grade class who didn’t reciprocate your feelings. But generally we think of trauma as something big and difficult to endure: the death of a loved one, unexpected serious illness or accident, a physical attack or physical/ sexual abuse.
The major problem with experiencing trauma is the sense that one cannot prevent it. It comes out of the blue and we can feel helpless either to stop it or do anything about it once it has occurred. It is that sense of helplessness and inability to shape our own life experience that can be the source of the inner tension we can feel after trauma. So what can we do if we encounter trauma or if we struggle with memories of trauma?
Sometimes it can be hard even to let ourselves grasp the magnitude of what has happened. It can be easy to say, “Oh, just my bad luck.” Or “If I wasn’t so stupid it wouldn’t have happened.” Sometimes the trauma is so great that we cannot actually believe it happened
Because the major trauma problem is feeling unable to prevent or avoid it, then the best thing we can do is to mourn the loss in a way that takes care of yourself first and foremost. Do every constructive thing you can to take charge and make your life bet-
ter. For example, if you lose a loved one through death, perhaps you could engage in volunteer work that mattered greatly to your loved one. If you or a family member has a serious illness, take charge of all that you can to make the situation the best it can be. Don’t be passive. Be active. When you experience being in charge of what is possible, it can be a very effective way to mourn an unpreventable loss.
In contrast with that old thought that we need to be strong and private in response to loss, it really does help to talk about the loss and what it means to us today. Talking with a friend can be helpful if that friend has the ability to listen and not offer unsolicited advice. Talking with a thoughtful clergyperson or a counselor also can help. As you put your feelings out there, ways to take care of yourself often will emerge and enable you to plan and achieve something that will actually make your life better. Most important, if you are experiencing or have experienced trauma, don’t hold it inside. Find someone you trust who can understand and will want to
know about your experience. The value of this kind of conversation is not found in receiving advice from someone who may or may not be qualified to give it. It is in acknowledging the trauma and realizing that you need not experience it alone. Walter D. Miller, LCSW, is a New Eastside clinical social worker who specializes in work with children, adolescents and adults. Contact him at (312) 856- 0230.
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
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Chicago summer camps offer kids education, preparation and recreation By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer
opportunities for children,” she founded Project Exploration, an organization that “changes the face of science from white male and wealthy to women, minorities and the overlooked,” in 1999, and earned a PhD in Education from the University of Chicago in 2010.
Two recently launched summer camps aim to transform Chicago into an interactive textbook when the school year ends a few months from now. Designed by professional educators and built on core academic disciplines, they are dedicated to optimizing students’ futures through classroom, studio and hands-on learning. The foundation of both GEMS World Academy’s CAMP GEMS and the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Summer Camps is an educational philosophy called STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Schools and educational businesses have regarded these disciplines as the keys to elite universities and professional success for nearly two decades. At the same time, students have regarded summer as the season of not going to school. So the real question is, are these camps any fun? CAMP GEMS “We make it fun,” explains GEMS World Academy French teacher Marjorie Blettry. “We are going to take the kids outside, into the park and to the museums. Chicago is a great place to teach.” Many of GEMS campers will design and fly their own kites, build and launch their own rockets, and take “eco-walks” to learn about the fundamentals of decomposition, among other things. Understanding how wind, fire and dirt fuel these phenomena should be enough to help any kid have fun. Blettry is one of the main faculty members behind the planning and implementation of CAMP GEMS, which will begin hosting weeklong sessions on June 19. A native of Lyon, France, she arrived at GEMS in 2016. Prior to that, she spent 14 years as a primary teacher at Lycée Français de Chicago, which is frequently referred to as “The French School.” While there, she “was always involved in the summer camps.” She is confident that CAMP GEMS will be different — and better — than similar programs because it will be guided by the “culture and spirit of GEMS.” “We start with an inquiry — like ‘why
“I was brought on to overhaul the way the organization is involved with young people,” she says. “I just love it.”
The ArcelorMittal Design Studio at the Chicago Architectural Foundation (CAF)
do people travel?’ — and do everything based on that,” she explains. “The students would learn why tourism is important. They might go to a travel agency. I would teach them how to book a hotel in French.” Since GEMS is an international school where “the kids all learn a language,” an hour of French or Spanish will follow mornings of science within the school itself every day of the week except Wednesday, when the kids will pursue related field studies throughout the city. The curriculum will also devote plenty of time for sports activities on GEMS’ rooftop playground in the afternoons. GEMS is also an International Baccalaureate school (IB) and, as such, maintains standards set by the Swiss educational foundation of the same name. “At the end of high school in many European countries, you take this exam with all the subjects: native language, foreign language, history, math and science,” explains Blettry. “If you do not pass that exam, you cannot go to college.” Although the curriculum at CAMP GEMS does not designate any specific time to the IB, Blettry is certain that the kids won’t mind the effect it may have on their summer. “I’m always amazed by their motivation to learn,” she says. “It’s kind of magical.”
Chicago Architecture Foundation Summer Camps The mission of the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Summer Camp is “to inspire kids to discover why design matters,” says Gabrielle Lyon, the Vice President for Education and Experiences who launched the program in 2015. In many ways, it is a youthful extension of the organization itself. “CAF has been helping people to appreciate the architecture of Chicago for fifty years,” she continues. Besides offering tours, events, programs and exhibitions, the CAF also operates Chicago’s First Lady — the overwhelmingly popular architectural tour boat that cruises up and down the Chicago River. Lyon is both proud and confident to follow in its wake. “It’s actually the number one thing to do in Chicago,” she boasts. “Unless you’re seven years old, in which case the best thing to do is to take the CAF summer camp.” The summer camp program consists of four separate weeklong terms, each offering a specific topic to a specific age group, beginning in late June. Campers will not only learn about architecture by meeting with experts and exploring the Loop, but they will also design their own skyscrapers and parks with a collection of tools ranging from Legos and clay to professional industry software.
Each session will contain 16 campers divided into groups of four or eight. At the end of the week, each group will make a presentation in a public show for the parents and administrators. Past shows have featured physical models, PowerPoint presentations and, in one case, a song. But before getting to that point, the campers will have to “listen to other people’s ideas and act on the one that’s the strongest,” says Lyon. For the most part, the presentations will be created in CAF’s ArcelorMittal Design Studio, which Lyon describes as “the first interactive design studio in the city.” The bright, flowing space is equipped with clay and art materials for younger architects, Macs and PCs for the older kids and, it seems, everything in between. Although she considers it a “terrific space for teaching and learning,” the studio is meant to complement the world-class lessons that the campers will receive by exploring the Loop with knowledgeable, career-minded adults. “We teach kids how to see in new ways,” she says. “They’re going to leave this program looking at buildings with different eyes. The architecture and history of Chicago are the best tools for that.”
“Every day we’re doing projects,” explains Lyon. “All the kids work as a team. They really collaborate.” Before joining CAF in 2014, Lyon spent two decades as a key player in the nation’s educational arena. Recognized for her focus on “ensuring equitable
GEMS World Academy (Patton)
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
$8.6 million penthouse in Chicago’s Vista Tower under contract Ranks among city’s highest-priced units
From Page 1.
Tower Chicago’s third-tallest building.
By Urban Real Estate
According to Midwest Real Estate Data, fewer than ten condominiums have sold for over $8 million in Chicago.
Urban Real Estate announced one of its clients has found a new home in the highly anticipated Vista Tower. The unit is a full floor, to be delivered in the summer of 2020, and is listed at 5,734 square feet, with two balconies, featuring sprawling 360-degree views of the magnificent Windy City, for a little over $8.6 million.
“This is a very special development for Chicago,” says Matt Farrell, managing partner and managing broker of Urban Real Estate.
The buyer, who wishes to remain anonymous, is a Chicagoan, represented by Giancarlo Chavez, broker with Chicago-based brokerage Urban Real Estate. “My client has very distinctive tastes, and was looking for amenities few buildings offered in the city,” Chavez says. “As we considered his needs and ultimate wish list, I thought we should
View of New Eastside from skyscraper altitude.
take a look at Vista Tower. He immediately loved what he saw, and how spectacular his new home will be. Our client will have the opportunity to be involved in customizing the unit’s lay-
out, design and materials.” The new gem of the New Eastside will be a $1 billion, 95-story, 1,186-foot structure comprised of residences, as well as a five-star hotel, making Vista
“This deal in particular sets a tone for the excitement and class that Vista Tower brings to our city. Magellan Development with its partner, Wanda Group of China, have created a sales center that allows us to work with clients to electronically visualize what their home will look like, a first-time effort of this kind in our city – and a huge plus in the luxury real estate sphere,” he adds. “Giancarlo worked painstakingly to ensure our client garnered exactly what he was seeking, and he found just the building to make his mark in.”
Neighborhood wildlife expected to make the rounds soon By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer When the weather turns warm, Bill Prahofer always ends up giving in to a certain freeloader who begs for free food from his restaurant, Buck’s Four Star Grill in Grant Park. He doesn’t mind sharing because the penniless patron is actually good for business. Also, he’s a squirrel. “Every year, there’s one squirrel that gets super friendly,” he says. “He will actually climb on me when I come every morning to deliver food.” For the past three or four summers, the squirrel has not only become part of Prahofer’s daily routine, but he has also achieved fame with tourists who visit the restaurant specifically to meet the furry diner. They call him Bucky. “Some Australians found out about him because we post pictures on Facebook,” recalls Prahoffer. “They wanted to see squirrels because they don’t have them down there. They brought
peanuts all the way just to feed him and take pictures.” According to Liza Lehrer, Assistant Director of Lincoln Park Zoo’s Urban Wildlife Institute, Bucky’s behavior is
typical for his species. “The animals that thrive in Chicago are sort of flexible and can take advantage of human food resources,” she says. “The tree squirrels that you often see
are grey squirrels. We also have Fox squirrels. They’re a little bit bigger and have a rusty, orangish-red coloration. Research by UIC and the Nature Museum indicates that grey squirrels are better foragers and competitors.” The Urban Wildlife Institute observes the animals that live in Chicago through a “long-term biodiversity camera project” that Lehrer describes as “the longest and broadest study of urban wildlife.” With hundreds of covert cameras installed throughout Chicago, the project furthers the Institute’s mission “to understand how animals live in the city” and “learn how to coexist as our planet becomes more diverse.” Besides squirrels, who spend most of the winter nesting in trees and surviving on carefully stored nuts, the cameras have recently begun to capture a good deal of foxes and coyotes. Chicagoans can see the action by logging into the Zoo’s wildlife page.
10 / MARCH 2017
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
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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 Saints and Heroes: Art of Medieval and Renaissance Europe Peruse hundreds of objects from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, including altar pieces, jewelry and an extensive arms and armor collection. Opens March 20. Whistler’s Mother: An American Icon Returns to Chicago Whistler’s iconic painting returns to Chicago for the first time in more than 60 years in a focused installation of 25 objects, including paintings, prints, drawings and posters. Opens March 4. Free days at nearby museums Art Institue: 5-8 p.m. Thursdays; Children’s Museum: 5-8 p.m. Thursdays; Museum of Contemporary Art: Every Tuesday. Valid Illinois ID required.
Monday, March 6 Condo Board Training: Understanding Energy Benchmarking Help your building save on energy costs through a presentation by FirstService’s Director of Energy Management, Kelly Dougherty. Evening includes light dinner and refreshments. Free. 5:30 -7:30 p.m., 303 E. Wacker Dr., second floor, www.fsresidential. com/EnergyTrainingIL
Tuesday, March 7 Africa: Democracy and Insecurity A panel discuss challenges and opportunities in Africa, with a focus on Burundi, Congo, Ethiopia and Nigeria. $20 ($10 members). 6 p.m.-7:15 p.m.; doors open 5:30 p.m. Chicago Council on Global Affairs, 180 N. Stetson Ave., Ste. 1400, (312) 726-3860, www. thechicagocouncil.org/event/africa-democracy-and-insecurity
March 3-30
Saturday, March 11
European Union Film Festival
St. Patrick’s Day
The largest festival in the nation showcases films from all 28 EU nations, including premieres of 62 new feature films. $11.
W E V E N T S W
Gene Siskel Film Center 164 N. State Street, (312) 846-2800, www.siskelfilmcenter.org
Wednesday, March 8 Bubble Soccer Tournament Kick a ball from inside a giant bubble! This soccer-meets-sumo wrestling tournament gives new meaning to bumping into your neighbors. Free. Nonmembers welcome. 5:30-7:30 p.m., Lakeshore Sport and Fitness, 211 N. Stetson Ave., www.eventbrite. com/e/lsfs-bubble-soccer-tournament-tickets-31942885029 Thursday, March 9
CAPS meeting
Meet and discuss neighborhood issues with residents of the New Eastside and police who patrol the area. Free. 7-8 p.m. 400 E. Randolph Condo (312) 745-4381, www.ward42chicago.com.
Friday, March 10 Asleep with the Fishes Spend the night with the Shedd’s coolest creatures! Learn about the animals through a scavenger hunt, an aquatic presentation and the Amphibians exhibit. $75 ($60 members). 6:30 p.m., Shedd Aquarium, (312) 939-2438, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., www.sheddaquarium.org/
Thursday, March 16 Artist Talk: Jeanne Gang on Architecture Listen to acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang, designer of Aqua and Wanda Vista, discuss various projects around the world, including the U.S. Embassy in Brazil. Free. 6-8 p.m., Art Institute, 111 S.
Dyeing of the Chicago River Arrive early to see 45 pounds of vegetable dye give the Chicago River an emerald-green hue. Free. 9 a.m., Chicago River (Columbus Dr. and Wacker Dr.), www.choosechicago.com/st-patricks-day/
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Troops of Irish dancers, booming marching bands and friendly bagpipers join together for a three-hour celebration through Grant Park. Free. Noon. Columbus Drive (between Balbo and Monroe), www. choosechicago.com/st-patricks-day/
Sweetwater Patio Party Celebrate the luck o’ the Irish with green beer, bagpipes, a photo booth and live DJ. Food specials include corned beef Reuben, Guinness lamb stew and Shepherd’s pie. 9 a.m.-close, Sweetwater, 225 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 698-7111, www. sweetwatertavernandgrille.com.
Island Party Hut Party Come for a 90-minute river cruise, stay for $3 Jell-O shots and $8 sandwiches. Cruises leave at 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. and cost $30. On-site cruise tickets available. 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Island Party Hut, 355 E. Riverwalk South, (312) 600-0488, www.islandpartyhut.com. Michigan Ave., (312) 443-3600, www. artic.edu/event/lecture-jeanne-gang Irish Murder Mystery Dinner Piece together an Irish crime scene over a festive dinner and green beer, at Lakeshore Sport and Fitness’s Press Kitchen. $55. 6-9 p.m., Lakeshore Sport and Fitness, 211 N. Stetson Ave., www. eventbrite.com/e/murder-me-imirish-murder-mystery-dinner-tickets32056929138?aff=es2
Friday, March 17 Trinity Academy of Irish Dance Celebrate the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with the talented Trinity Irish dancers. Free. 11-11:45 a.m., Chicago Cultural Center, Claudia Cassidy Theater, 78 E. Washington St., www.trinityirishdance.com/see-us/?event_id1=48
March 18–26 Chicago Flower & Garden Show Twenty-three life-sized gardens bring the beauty of Chicago’s neighborhoods, cultural institutions and green spaces to life. This year’s theme is “Chicago Blooming.” $5-$13, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. (Sun.-Wed.), 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. (Thurs.-Sat.), Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., www.chicagoflower.com/tickets/
Tuesday, March 21 Prospective Member Reception Exclusive to New Eastside Residents! Tour the Mid-America Club and learn about its preferred membership program for New Eastsiders! Reservations required; business casual attire preferred. 5:30-7 p.m., Mid-America Club, Aon Center, 80th floor. To RSVP call 312861-1100 or e-mail susan.marzec@ clubcorp.com.
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MARCH 2017 / 11
NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
Events
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
March 24-25 Court/Garden This three-act show explores how citizens assemble, using Louis XIV’s French Court and the Occupy Wall Street movement as inspiration. Free. 7:30 p.m., Chicago Cultural Center, Preston Bradley Hall, 78 E. Washington Street.
Saturday, March 25
GEMS Open House Get to know
GEMS World Academy Chicago Individual tours available (312) 809-8910 350 E. South Water St. gemschicago.org/openhouse Build a Bird Feeder Workshop Help migrating and resident birds by building your very own family bird feeder! Materials and tools provided; open to children 6-12. Free. 1-3 p.m., Lurie Garden Choral Room, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 2281004, www.luriegarden.org/events
New Eastside Neighbors Meetup Wednesday, March 29
“My Egg Boy” Asian Pop-Up Cinema See how far one woman will go for family in a story about love and the value of life. Group will meet at the top of the stairs; screening includes director Q&A afterward. $10 (w/$5 promo code ESmeetup). 7 p.m. — AMC River East 21 322 E. Illinois St. www.asianpopupcinema.org/tickets. www.meetup.com/ Lakeshore-East-New-Eastside-Neighbors
CHICAGO
MARCH RACES Put an extra spring in your step with the Leprechaun Leap March 11, or try for a longer distance at the Get Lucky Half or Wintrust 10 Mile. Get Lucky Half Marathon, 14K & 7K Saturday, March 11 — 8 a.m. Soldier Field Leprechaun Leap 5K/8K Saturday, March 11 — 9:30 a.m. Lincoln Park Wintrust Lakefront 10 Mile & 5K Saturday, March 18 — 9 a.m. Montrose Beach
ASIAN POP-UP CINEMA FILM FESTIVAL Cock & Bull (China) — A small-town murder puts a local mechanic in the spotlight. Wednesday, March 15, 7 p.m. - AMC River East 21 The Search (China) — A photographer and director scour Tibet’s countryside looking for actors. Wednesday, March 22, 7 p.m. - AMC River East 21 The Best Secret Agent (Taiwan) — The first Taiwanese-language spy film produced in Taiwan features a female agent. Saturday, March 25, 10:30 a.m. - Chicago Cultural Center The Young Ones (Taiwan) — A passionate love affair takes a tragic turn when terminal illness intervenes. March 25, 12:30 p.m. - Chicago Cultural Center Cloud of Romance (Taiwan) Two teens like the same swimmer, only to find their
Harris Theatre Love Sonnets Romantic melodies from Petrarch, Ravel and Mendelssohn round out this beautiful program about love. $25-$55 - March 8, 7:30 p.m. MIX at SIX: Indo-Pak Coalition An eclectic fusion of progressive jazz and South Indian classical music. $10 - March 13, 6 p.m. Hubbard Street Spring Series Hubbard Street pays tribute to Spanish choreographer Nacho Duato, along with Brahms and Bach. $30-$102 - March 16-19 (times vary) Charlie Parker’s Yardbird Tortured jazzman Charlie Parker revisits inspirations and demons in this special Lyric Opera libretto. $45-$125 - March 24 (7:30 p.m.) and March 26 (2 p.m.) HARRIS THEATER 205 E. Randolph Street · (312) 334-7777 www.harristheaterchicago.org.
FREE FITNESS CLASSES at
Navy Pier
Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout March.
March 7, 14, 16, 28 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Zumba
feelings for each other may run deeper. March 25, 2:30 p.m. - Chicago Cultural Center
West end of Food Experience.
Cheerful Wind (Taiwan) — A blind doctor finds himself falling for a visiting photographer. Sunday, March 26, 10:30 a.m. - Chicago Cultural Center,
March 21, 23, 30 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Blue Moon (Taiwan) — On a “blue moon” evening, city dweller Yi-Fang tries to untangle a love triangle. March 26, 12:30 p.m. - Chicago Cultural Center Blue Gate Crossing (Taiwan) — A Taiwanese teen is torn between the boy she might like and the girl she may love. Wednesday, March 29, 2:30 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center My Egg Boy (Taiwan) — When a woman freezes her eggs in search of love, she lands up in a wintry Swedish province. March 29, 7 p.m. - AMC River East 21
All shows $10-$15 — asianpopupcinema.org
WERQ
West end of Food Experience.
March 12, 19, 26 10-11 a.m.
Yoga (all ages) Lakeview Terrace.
600 E. Grand www.navypier.com/fitness
Neighborhood Specials Pinstripes St. Patrick’s Day Specials March 17-March 19 $4 Green draft brews $8 Guinness floats Pinstripes, 435 E. Illinois St. (312) 527-3010, pinstripes.com/chicago-illinois/ 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 Twenty 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 Twenty-five percent off advance tickets for all shows! Use promo code MAGELLAN25 at www.wintersjazzclub.com Sets at 7, 8:30 and 10 p.m. $13.75 (with discount), 465 N. McClurg Court, (312) 344-1270.
12 / FEBRUARY 2017
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NEW EASTSIDE NEWS
THE LEGACY
60 E Monroe St.
▪
OUTER DRIVE EAST
2 Bed / 2 Bath
400 E Randolph St.
▪
1 Bed / 1 Bath
Premier northeast-facing luxury home w/private balcony feat. city, park, & lake views. $692,000
Complete rehab of largest 1 Bed floor plan in the building with park and skyline views. $320,000
OUTER DRIVE EAST
OUTER DRIVE EAST
400 E Randolph St.
▪ Studio / 1 Bath
400 E Randolph St.
Jr. 1 Bedroom w/18’ balcony offers views of Lake Michigan, Monroe Harbor, & parks. $325,000
400 E Randolph ▪ Suite 500
▪
1 Bed / 1 Bath
Beautifully remodeled w/chef’s kitchen feat. quartz counters & kitchen island. $340,000
312 ▪ 528 ▪ 9200
www.UrbanRealEstate.com