Streeterville News February 2020

VOL. 3 NO. 2

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February 2020

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Police meet with Streeterville residents to discuss safety

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Polar Plunge celebrates 20 years Lakefront Trail damaged after winter storm Page 3 Page 12 Commander Daniel O’Shea addresses the Streeterville community about safety.

Photo by Stephanie Racine

How they stood the test of time—couples who made it

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Doorperson of the Month: Arte Brinson

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Chicago cops on lookout for repeat offenders Page 3 Treating yourself has never been so active Page 8

Restaurant owner: feeding 300 people is nothing

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| NEWS |

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200 E. Randolph St. Suite 5100 Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 690-3092 Editor: Elaine Hyde elaineh@neweastsidecommunity.com Managing Editor Stephanie Racine stephanieracine@ neweastsidecommunity.com Staff Writers: Mat Cohen Jacqueline Covey Angela Gagnon Doug Rapp Elisa Shoenberger Copy Editors: Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design: Bob Oswald Community Contributors: Jon Cohn

Subscriptions info@neweastsidecommunity.com or visit neatside.com Eastside Enterprises LLC is the publisher of New Eastside News and Streeterville News. Eastside Enterprises has provided local community news to the Chicago area since 2012.

New Eastside News and Streeterville News are monthly papers that use community writers and contributors. The views expressed by community contributors are their own. Eastside Enterprises does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. Eastside Enterprises is independently owned and operated.

Published Feb. 1, 2020 Copyright ©2020. All rights reserved.

Polar Plungers run into the lake in 2018. Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Chicago

Freezin’ for a reason

Special Olympics’ Polar Plunge celebrates 20 years

By Doug Rapp Staff Writer They’re freezin’ for a reason.

The 20th annual Chicago Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Chicago is scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2020, at North Avenue Beach. “Plungers” collect donations and pledge to jump into the icy waters of Lake Michigan.

“People are excited we’ve been doing this event this long,” said Heather Kundert, executive director of Special Olympics Chicago.

Kundert said they’re expecting 4,000 plungers, a combination of nearly 300 teams and individuals. Their goal, she said, is to raise $2,020,000 for the year 2020, all of which benefits the Chicago Special Olympics organization.

For the 20th anniversary, Kundert said they’re recognizing people who’ve participated since the beginning. Long-standing team Kidd Krue has raised over $42,000 and is the top non-corporate team. Some of the polar plunge founders attending this year include Gerry Henaghan, Pam Mu-

nizzi, Ernest Alvarado, Richard McAvoy and Michael Brady.

Kundert said they also want to recognize some other participating agencies, such as Envision and Misericordia, that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“We’re excited to partner with some of our sister agencies in a different way this year,” she said.

New this year, Kundert said, will be an “Olympic village,” where sponsors and partner agencies will have different fun activities to encourage people to learn about other agencies helping out people with disabilities.

Kundert also praised the park district and the dive team on hand during the plunge.

“We’re really proud that the city has really embraced this,” she said. “We wouldn’t be able to do a lot of what we do at the scale we do it without the park district’s help and their partnerships.”

John Fahey, of Team Dan Fahey is plunging for the fourth time this year.

His brother Daniel is a Special Olympics athlete, he said, who plays basketball

and baseball among other sports at Mt. Greenwood Park. John Fahey said his team raised $38,000 last year but this year they’re hoping to raise $40,000.

“We know it’s a good cause...we wanted to give back a little,” Fahey said.

Fahey recalled how last year was exceptionally cold and ice had to be cleared to make way for the plungers, but it’s an experience he still enjoys.

“It’s pretty awesome,” he said of running into the chilly lake. “It’s exhilarating, you get a pretty big rush. The adrenaline’s pumping. You’re yelling and screaming out there with a bunch of your friends.”

Kundert said many of the participants like Fahey have a personal connection to the Special Olympics but many plungers just want to help out.

“Really they’re just all trying to get behind the city of Chicago and what we’re doing and what we do for these individuals,” Kundert said. “They really believe in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.”

To register as a team or individual or to donate, visit sochicago.org

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| NEWS |

Chicago cops on lookout for repeat offenders

By Jacqueline Covey Staff Writer At the Streeterville CAPS meeting, 6 p.m., Jan. 2 at Living Access, discussion focused on neighborhood justice activities and when to contact the police.

Officer Al Robinson reported to residents that calls to service were up. Calls to service are the number of times “the phone rings” with a resident complaint.

“That’s good,” he said.

Robinson said a location

reported in a crime remains on police radar even if the officer response didn’t result in an arrest. For the best results when reporting a crime, Robinson recommended providing as detailed a description as possible of the alleged criminal.

“Don’t ever think that you’re wasting our time by calling us,” Robinson said. “Call us.”

A resident pressed officers at the meeting about repeat offenders, and what can be done to end the cycle of crime.

“You’ve done your job, involved in the court system and then, oopsie daisies, they’re out,” one resident said, expressing concern about the justice system.

Robinson said the answer is to get involved. The court advocacy program operates in each policing district and follows the court cases and outcomes of incidents that occurred in each neighborhood which may be of interest to the community.

Residents are vetted and introduced to the court system

as advocates for the community.

They follow one of the 56 current cases in their district and provide a sense of not-in-my-backyard justice in the city.

“We hope the judge sees this participation and gives a harsher sentence,” Robinson said.

The advocacy program is a response to crime and wrongdoing, as it’s meant to show unity in numbers. “(We’re) speaking out for the community that doesn’t have a voice because they’re not (in the

courtroom),” Sgt. Christopher Schenk said.

A resident who leads a neighborhood advocacy program said these types of activities make an impression on Chicago’s court system. The resident also called for neighborhood reforms and enforcement of a geographical restriction for repeat criminal offenders.

The resident said they recognize “habitual characters” causing trouble in neighborhoods they do not live in.

| NEWS BRIEFS | Lakefront Trail damaged after winter storm According to the Chicago Park District website, the pedestrian and bike paths between Oak St. and Ohio St. remain closed after major damage occurred the weekend of Jan. 10. Chicago Parks said on Twitter that the trails will be closed “until further notice” as the damage to the trails was significant, causing the asphalt to be uprooted in some locations. Chicago Parks advises those still using the Lakefront Trail to heed to warnings posted along the path for what remains closed. The cost to the city for these repairs is unclear at this time. For more information and to check which sections of the Lakefront Trail are hazardous, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com

Motorcycle noise monitoring ordinance proposed and approved Alderman Brian Hopkins announced that an ordinance he designed to combat motorcycle noise was heard at a Committee on Public Safety meeting on Jan. 9.

The ordinance calls on OEMC (Office of Emergency Management and Communication) to use noise monitors, similar to

those already at O’Hare and Midway airports, on Lakeshore Drive. These monitors would report on any excessive noise and would operate 24 hours a day and seven days a week. “The intent of my ordinance is to collect and report back excessive noise triggers to establish patterns that the Chicago Police and other agencies can use to better predict and enforce excessive exhaust noise violations,” said Hopkins in his announcement. The monitors have been approved to be installed as a pilot program.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital performs 100th Lung Transplant Northwestern performed its 100th lung transplant on Dec. 1, 2019. Tommy Lipnick, musician and producer, was the recipient. Best known for his work with the Smashing Pumpkins, Lipnick had been having issues with his lungs for eight years. In the fall of 2019, his health took a turn for the worse and he was put on a lung transplant list on the day after Thanksgiving. He received a donation in less than 48 hours. People with lung transplants typically live full, independent lives post-surgery. Northwestern has been doing lung transplants since 2014.

P.F. Chang’s To Go is set to open Feb. 3 at 213 N. Hubbard. Photo by Stephanie Racine

P.F. Chang’s closes to make room for P.F. Chang’s ‘To Go’ P.F. Chang’s closed its last remaining downtown Chicago location at 530 N. Wabash on Jan. 14. On Feb. 3, P.F. Chang’s To Go will open its first location ever at 213 N. Hubbard, with plans to open two more locations—one in the Loop and one in Fulton Market. Opening dates for the latter locations have not yet been announced. Four P.F. Chang’s still remain in the suburbs.

Marina planned for Navy Pier in 2021 Randy Podolsky, a real estate developer and boat enthusiast, is bringing a marina to Navy Pier. Projected to cost $9 million, the marina plans to offer space to boats up to 130 feet by 2021. The Navy Pier Marina will include other amenities such as WiFi, a lounge, and concierge services. The City Council gave approval for the project in 2016. Podolsky hopes to provide boaters—local and visiting—with much-needed pier-side services.

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| NEWS BRIEFS | TopGolf Streeterville hosting a Lunch League Tournament in February Throughout February, TopGolf Swing Suite, which is located in Astor Hall at 900 N. Michigan, will host a golf tournament. The event will take place on Tuesdays 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Participants will take swings from 100 yards away and will get eight shots in each of the two rounds. Those who land closest to the pin get the highest score. The contestant with the highest score in a single round after a month will win a $50 gift card. For more information and questions about the tournament, email contact@asterhallchicago.com.

Lurie’s Children’s Hospital awarded a $16 million gift Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services,a federal agency, gave up to $16 million to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago at the end of 2019. Lurie is one of eight institutions to receive an award “to develop Integrated Care for Kids—a new model of care that will aim to improve health outcomes and reduce costs of care for children covered by Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)” according to a Lurie Press Release. Lurie and the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services will work with neighborhood organizations to create a network to serve 43,000 children in the neighborhoods of Belmont Cragin and Austin.

Compete in Lunch League this February at TopGolf Swing Suites at Aster Hall, 900 N. Michigan. Photo Courtesy of Aster Hall

at Old Orchard in Skokie, Northbrook, Oakbrook, Schaumberg and other locations in Illinois or its frozen pizzas at local grocery stores.

California Pizza Kitchen has shuttered its last location in Chicago

Lettuce Entertain You opens new club Dance Studio Vol. 1

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) closed its last Chicago location in the Shops at North Bridge in mid-January. CPK had been downtown for many years with a location on 52 E. Ohio but changes in customer preferences and rising rental prices may have played a role in the closures. The chain has closed other locations including its Arlington Heights location in June 2019. People can still enjoy the pizza

Lettuce Entertain You and brothers Fred Grimmel and Brian Grimmel, Los Angeles-based nightlife operators, opened Dance Studio Vol. 1 in the alley at 58 W. Kinzie St. The club promises to be “the best dance party” with placards on the wall announcing the best dancers every night. The club is also partnering with pizzeria Happy Camper where people can order pizza by the slice or by

the pie at a pizza window. However, Vol. 1 won’t be open forever it will close in January 2022 for Vol. 2.

Mini golf company Puttshack plans to open HQ in River North Puttshack will open its headquarters at 303 W. Erie St. in March. Their first US location will be in Oakbrook, IL and then Atlanta with plans to secure a location in downtown Chicago in the upcoming months. The company aims to start with 40 staff members but has plans to expand extensively to 1,000 employees in the US by the end of the year. Puttshack first opened in London in 2018 and appears to be following the

trend of golf companies coming into downtown Chicago, joining TopGolf.

Papyrus has begun closing the envelope on its Chicago stores Papyrus, the stationery store, is closing its stores nationwide including its locations in Chicago.

According to Retail Dive, COO of Schurman Retail Group Dominique Schurman the impact of “current challenges of the retail industry” played a part in the closures.

Liquidation sales are in process across the country. However, it appears that people can still buy Papyrus brand cards at other stores for now. Papyrus has locations in Water Tower and North Bridge Malls.

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| COMMUNITY CORNER |

Doorperson of the Month Arte Brinson at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive

By Mat Cohen Staff Writer Arte Brinson is accepting the Doorperson of the Month Award on behalf of the whole team at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive. “They could’ve made this phone call to the paper for any one of us,” he said. “I’m not the only one that deserves the recognition.”

But February is Brinson’s month to shine. He entered the army at 17, was honorably discharged at the age of 19, and began working at the postal service in 1984 when he was 24 years old. Thirty-six years later he retired.

However, it wouldn’t be for long. Brinson’s brotherin-law, who was working at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive, urged him to take an open position at the building.

Brinson started a part-time job there 13 years ago, but eventually picked up more hours and has been the head doorperson for seven years.

“Customer satisfaction is number one,” he said.

“There will be times when a person is expecting a piece of mail and they don’t get it or a person is expecting to get on the elevator and it’s not working. It’s all kinds of ways we have to make sure they get what they’re asking for.”

Brinson is a problemsolver who enjoys playing chess. In his free time, he and his wife check out new restaurants. He also enjoys a challenge.

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Dennis Downes, sculptor of Captain George Wellington Streeter, will be premiering his newest 7 foot bronze Native American Trail Marker Tree at the Navy Pier Flower and Garden show March 18 - 22, 2020. The artist is one of the select Guest Speakers & will be in attendance during the entire event.

Get tickets at chicagoflower.com/tickets/

Gail Spreen (312)925-7668 Gail@StreetervilleProperties.com

“YOUR STREETERVILLE EXPERT”

Arte Brinson, who has been at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive for 13 years, is the February Doorperson of the Month. Photo by Mat Cohen

“Sometimes people come and they are irritated,” he said. “I challenge myself to change that state a little bit so the person feels better about it. Sometimes you can’t fix the issue, but you can make the person feel that you’re trying to fix it and it’ll make them feel better.”

He loves his job because of the people he deals with and the relationships he’s built. “They have to go past me,” he said. “I want to think they enjoy the interactions that we have, how little they may be.”

Brinson said watching newborns grow to teenagers has been meaningful for him. The families in the building, mixed with the

fact it was an old motor factory, gives a different flavor to the place than the usual high-rise in Chicago, Brinson said.

But without a doubt, Brinson adds a little bit of his own flavor on top. “It’s good to have some fresh people, see some fresh faces. But overall It’s a good flow,” he said. “It’s a good job to have, a very underrated job to have.”

To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@ neweastsidecommunity.com with the doorperson’s name and why you think they should be the doorperson of the month. Each winner will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

We are looking for volunteers for a focus group to find out how we can better serve our communities as the local paper.

Participants could receive a gift card or other surprises. Those interested please email stephanieracine@neweastsidecommunity.com

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| NEWS |

Owner of The Goddess and Grocer says feeding 300 people is nothing

By Elisa Shoenberger Staff Writer Debbie Sharpe came through Chicago on Paul McCartney tours while working as a caterer. “I met some people and I thought, ‘Oh nice place to stay,’ and so I just decided to stay,” Sharpe said.

Sharpe opened her own business, The Goddess and Grocer, which provides both ready-made and made-to-order food in several locations in the city. She’s even licensed out the name Goddess and The Baker to stores, including a recently opened location on 44 E. Grand Ave. Australian-born Sharpe started off as a music journalist and went to England working for Adam Ant’s manager. She ended up working in the catering company for a year and thought, “I can do this myself,” and that’s what she did.

Sharpe wanted to open an Australian deli. Fifteen years ago she could not easily find a good sandwich. “I was used to having a food store you could get sandwiches at and you could get prepared foods that you can just take home and reheat and not bother about going to the supermarket,” she explained.

Sharpe still caters to the musicians, working big shows like Lollapalooza or

The Goddess and Grocer owner Debbie Sharpe stayed after coming to Chicago with Paul McCartney’s tour. Photo by Mat Cohen

Michigan-based Electric Forest. “I love the bigger the numbers, the better for me ‘cause I like the challenge.”

The biggest event Sharpe ever catered was over 2,000 people in Lenin Stadium for the Moscow Music Peace Festival in 1989.

They had just fed about 1,000 people but realized there were many more people waiting in line to be fed. She told her staff, “Oh no, we are so not done.”

On a considerably smaller scale, The Goddess and Grocer caters for Teatro ZinZanni, the downtown cabaret circus show. She was asked to cater for the show long before the show found the space in the Cambria Hotel Building.

Each night they serve 300 people but that’s not the challenge, Sharpe said.

“Catering 300 people is

nothing for me. But you’ve got to get 300 dinners in 22 minutes with a dance routine. It really adds a new level of difficulty.”

Sharpe’s staff are an important part of the show, she explained.

“They sing, they dance, they move props,” all while serving food.

The Goddess and Grocer features a popular and immensely Instagrammable Rainbow Cake. Asked where it originated, Sharpe said, “We’re not sure. We just think one of our pastry chefs made it one day.” While it’s not exclusive to the Goddess stores, Sharpe recommended Goddess’ version. “I just think ours tastes really much better than everybody else’s because of the buttercream frosting.”

For information, visit goddessandgrocer.com

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| FEATURES |

What is love?

“I think it’s really just a feeling, when you’re in love you just kind of know. It’s pretty indescribable.”

Ryan Ferrell

We ask some Chicago residents “How do you describe love?”

By Mat Cohen

l

Staff Writer

“Love is intention, positive intention.”

Andre and his wife, Diana, have been married for five years.

Dan Boyd described a meme which portrays an older woman knitting a large sweater, and asking, what am I going to do with all this love?

He said, “I think love is something to do with this thing to give away in a selfless manner.” He also added that seeing his dog Zero snuggled next to his girlfriend in the morning is love in his eyes.

Dan Boyd and his dog, Zero.

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Sam said, “Love is the ability to feel unapologetically yourself with someone.” Alana said, “the feeling of acceptance,” and Dorothy added, “comfort.”

Dorothy Sawyer, Alana Paul and Sam Maiolo.

Apply Now for 2020-2021 School Year

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| LUXURY LIVING |

Treating yourself has never been so active

By Mat Cohen Staff Writer

Gentleman’s Cooperative has a luxurious event space including a bar, pool table and cigar deck.

Gentleman’s Cooperative is the house of modern luxury, including a master tailor and professional stylists. Photos by Mat Cohen

House of Modern Luxury

Gentleman’s Cooperative provides of services, activities in one downtown spot

By Mat Cohen Staff Writer One of the most interesting spaces in Chicago combines style, confidence and luxury to create a haven in the middle of the city.

The Gentleman’s Cooperative, located at the penthouse of 111 W. Jackson Blvd., includes a barbershop, pool table, full bar, master tailoring, customized suits, a private cigar deck and corporate event space.

Beginning with a pop-up shop, co-owners Mike Berntsen and Chris Flores have been offering luxurious services to local professionals for more than six years.

“We help to maximize our clients’ personal and business impact,” director of business development Rich Moran said. “I think we do that very well.”

The space is across from the Chicago Board of Trade, making it easy to feel Chicago’s heartbeat through its windows.

“We are in such prime real estate,” Moran said. “We are constantly surrounded by the best executives in the state. It makes it easy for our clients to come in. Our location is everything.”

The Cooperative offers a barber and styl-

Gentleman’s Cooperative master tailor Mousa Hazare comes from a family of tailors, getting his start in Pakistan.

ist membership, a master tailor and professional clothiers, as well as master barbers and stylists. Not to mention a luxurious event space to host corporate gatherings.

“Our clients work hard and we are big believers in taking time for yourself and taking a load off,” Moran said. “People work hard and people deserve to take care of themselves.”

Away from the hustle, tucked in his own quiet space, is master tailor Mousa Hazare. The room is draped with fabric, scattered with sewing machines and pop-

ping with all colors of the rainbow.

Hazare was born in Mongolia, moved to Pakistan when he was six years old and comes from a family of tailors, including his father and four brothers. He got his start at eight years old working for his dad’s shop in Pakistan. Seven years ago he moved to the U.S. and after a year in San Diego, he came to Chicago.

Hazare, 33, is a key member of the Cooperative team and goes the extra mile for clients.

“I have the confidence they will get the things that they are really looking for,” he said. “My job is to make sure everything is perfect. If the manufacturers did something wrong I’m here to fix that. Most of the time they get the garments perfect, but sometimes there are some minor tweaks.

And we want perfect.”

Hazare’s favorite part of the job is working with clients while taking measurements because he says that’s the easiest part of the process. However, he enjoys problem-solving and calls himself an ultimate problem solver.

To learn more about the space visit gentsco-op.com

River North has become a haven for luxury workout studios.

From the Red Room of Barry’s Bootcamp to the cryotherapy at GOAT Climb & Cryo and the infrared heat of Yoga 2.0, the neighborhood has plenty of top-of-the-line fitness options to treat yourself to a new kind of workout in 2020.

Yoga 2.0 opened its doors in May of last year at 215 W. Ontario St. The loft-style studios, located on the second floor with artistic murals in the lobby and Limitless Nitro Brew on tap, has taken yoga to the next level.

“Considering the area, there isn’t really something like it that exists for yoga,” director of content and branding, and Lululemon ambassador Manny Garcia said. “People Continued on page 10

Virtual Reality will be set up at Mayweather Boxing and Fitness. Photo courtesy of Mayweather Boxing and Fitness

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| LUXURY LIVING |

Pamper your pet this winter

By Mat Cohen Staff Writer According to the American Kennel Club, dogs need 30 minutes to two hours of exercise a day, depending on size and breed. Although they don’t say much about pampering, our best friends could use some luxury as well.

When it’s dark and below freezing in the middle of the Chicago winter, luxury pet services providers are there for your pooch.

When people get away to warmer places, dog resort Paradise 4 Paws has locations near O’Hare and Midway. It offers massage therapy, a spa, grooming and 20,000 square feet of space.

Paradise 4 Paws works with Pooch Hotel, which has locations in the South Loop, Lincoln Park and West Loop. Morgan Fontes, general manager of the West Loop location, said demand for their services

increases during the winter.

“We see a big increase for the majority of our services offered, but generally our highest margin is within our grooming services,” she said. “Most of our parents have more family visits over the winter due to (the holidays) and they all want clean dogs to have at home.”

Streeterville dog walker, Jennifer Jakubiak, has a strategy to brave the winter months.

“Proper gear,” she said. “I have down jackets, boots, everything you can possibly imagine to truck in this weather.”

Jakubiak uses a dog-walking app called Rover and has four dogs to entertain everyday in the cold.

“It takes a lot to have a dog in the city just because it is a lot of responsibility,” she said. “But they love me and I love it.”

Dog owners can use daycares, winter coats and booties, all feeding the pet

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industry. The American Pet Products Association estimated the industry to be worth $75.3 billion in 2019.

Dan Rubenstein, CEO and founder of Pups Pet Club, said the winter months are just as hard on dogs as on humans.

“If you’re cold, imagine what your dog is feeling,” he said. “You have layers of sweaters, and jackets, and gloves and your dog is completely exposed.”

Pups Pet Club, which opened in Streeterville at 316 W. Illinois St. last spring, gets an influx of participants in the winter.

Rubenstein has advice for dog owners.

“Use your apartment hallways without destroying them,” he said. “But ultimately, your dog still needs an hour and half of exercise per day.”

As winter lingers, the dogs coming into Pups Pet Club are about ready to burst, just like humans, Rubenstein said.

“In the winter months we kind of hiber-

Streeterville dog walker Jennifer Jakubiak plays with Breeze in Bennett Park. Photo by Mat Cohen

nate, so when we have an opportunity to get out to the gym or on vacation somewhere warm, we really explode with all this energy and enthusiasm.”

City Pets, at 432 E. Grand Ave., offers grooming, daycare and winter products.

Owner Lisa Harper sells Saltsox Winter Boots to help protect paws.

“We’ve tried all different brands and we like those because they’re durable and they stay on the best,” she said.

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| LUXURY LIVING |

Stay ‘inn’ luxury this February at local hotels

By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer Don’t have time to get away this winter? Take a staycation at one of Chicago’s best hotels.

The Ivy Hotel, 233 E. Ontario in Streeterville, offers an at-home getaway for Chicagoans. The hotel has spacious and apartment-size rooms, with rainfall showers and deep-soaking tubs. The hotel is offering a special staycation deal for Illinois residents. With a state ID, rooms are 10% off for one night, plus a dessert of choice from the hotel’s restaurants.

Options include Divine Lounge’s Carrot Cake or Cookie Sundae.

With the discount, a studio queen starts at $98. For information, visit ivyhotelchicago.com.

The Park Hyatt has sumptuous food and spa experiences in February for downtowners looking

Active Continued from page 8 have different experiences, but there really isn’t one for yoga, and we wanted to make it.”

Yoga 2.0 found the best products to offer, including filling the room with triple-filtered humidity that’s cleaner than tap water.

“Every detail was thought out for the entire studio, from our rental

for an escape. The Chef ’s Counter Tasting Menu at The Park Hyatt restaurant NoMI is an exclusive and decadent experience. With just four seats at the counter, the chefs prepare an eight-course meal right in front of you. Menus change every 4-6 weeks and focus on one food group. The current focus is alliums—think garlic, shallots, onions and leeks. The offer is available for $145 per person on the reservation website Tock.

The Park Hyatt’s spa has a “tasting menu” of their own. Pick three spa treatments, each lasting 45 minutes, for a well-rounded relaxation experience. Options include facials, massages and body treatments. Pricing starts at $410 and treatments can be booked by calling the spa at (312) 239-4200.

Hotel Julian is offering romantic “Cultured and Cuffed” packages, during “cuffing season,” a slang term used for the colder months

mats being the best mats on the market, to the EO products in the bathrooms,” Garcia said. “And when it comes to the class experience you have to reserve the mat space, so that takes the pre-class stress away. Everything is done for you.”

GOAT Climb & Cryo, which opened in June, sits right across the street. The studio uses versaclimbers to provide a full-body workout, as well as Cryo-

Dine at the chef’s counter at The Park Hyatt’s NoMI. Photo courtesy of The Park Hyatt

when love tends to bloom. Each package is based on a famous Chicago couple. The Barack and Michelle Obama package includes tickets to the Art Institute and an in-room champagne toast.

Hotel Julian suggests their Smart TVs, using personal streaming accounts, to view “Southside with You,” the biographical film based on the couple’s early years.

The Melissa McCarthy and Ben Falcone package is based on the

therapy to offer innovative recovery sessions. Being so close allows the studios to work together.

“It builds a community,” Garcia said. “So many of our students take class with us, but might also go boxing, or pilates in the area.

It’s such a fitness forward community, which makes our typical student outgoing and want to socialize.”

On Thursdays, GOAT members get to take class at 2.0 on discount and

Hotel Julian’s spa-like bathrooms adds to the comfort of the Cultured and Cuffed package. Photo by Wagstaff Chicago

Hollywood comedic pair, who met at a writing class in Chicago in 1998. The deal includes Second City tickets and pre-comedy show cocktails at Hotel Julian’s restaurant, ALK. To book one of the packages, email info@hoteljulianchicago.com The Loews Chicago Hotel staycation offer is for the whole family. The hotel encourages visitors to “get snowed ‘inn’” with them. The

members from the yoga studio get Cryotherapy on discount.

Mayweather Boxing and Fitness, a new gym opening this month at 219 W. Hubbard, will be offering the gold standard of fitness just like its leader, boxing champion Floyd Mayweather. This is the first franchise in Chicago, but there are plans to open three more.

The space will have treadmills, rowers, strength

package includes valet parking, 20% off restaurant and room service and two free cocktails. For the kids, enjoy one free movie rental (up to $19.99), hot cocoa, a decorate-your-own cookie set created by Loews’ pastry chef and a kid’s pop up tent and “campfire.”

Book between Feb. 7-12 and the package will include two free tickets per family for the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier. Visit loewshotels.com/chicago-downtown.

equipment, as well as boxing equipment. There will even be virtual reality set up where you can be trained by Floyd himself, box against him, or partake in a number of different workouts.

A big reason the franchise wanted to be in River North was the mix of residential and business buildings in the area.

“It was a no-brainer for us to look at the neighborhood,” franchise owner

Sara McSpedon said. “I think there’s (workout studios in the area) because the mix between the residential and the business—it’s very rare to find a neighborhood within downtown Chicago that has so much of both.”

If you’re in the area and you’d like some more options, you can also visit Studio Three, Shadowbox, Row House, Studio Lagree, Kick@55, Solidcore or CycleBar.

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| FEATURES |

Romance for the ages: From couples who made it

By Mat Cohen Staff Writer No one knows love more than the people who have been pierced by Cupid’s arrow and withstood the test of time.

Two couples in the Streeterville neighborhood offered their stories and advice for others.

Bill and D Clancy, married 60 years, went on the most epic first date you can imagine, and Roger and Jeannette Becker are high school sweethearts, married 56 years.

Both know a thing or two about love.

D, who goes by the first initial of her maiden name, met Bill when she was 10.

She was seven years younger than her future husband and friends with his niece.

Bill’s and D’s families are from Chicago and knew each other.

“The reality is we both really knew each other’s families for a long time,” D said. “I think sometimes newlyweds have problems with families and we never had that, but we both already knew each other’s families really well.”

And everyone thought they’d be together.

“Our first date was more than 24 hours,” D said.

They went to a lecture, to dinner and

Bill and D Clancy have been married 60 years.

Photo courtesy of the Clancys

then out dancing, which is enough to last three dates, but there’s more.

Bill crashed on D’s couch for a few hours of sleep, then they attended 6 a.m. mass the next morning, drove north to visit his brother, and finally back home.

They’ve always had fun together, which continued when they had kids in the 1960s.

“Bill and I had so much fun with our kids,” she said. “And that’s not true for everyone.”

They took a month-long road trip along the California coast and camped in a van along with four kids and a dog.

“I don’t think too many people do that,” D said. “I’m not sure if we were wise or not, but it was great.

“The ability to laugh at things helps your relationship, sometimes people take things

Roger and Jeanette Becker have been married for 56 years. Photo courtesy of the Beckers

too seriously.”

High school sweethearts Roger and Jeannette Becker started dating their junior year after Roger asked Jeannette to the prom, partly because of her shiny hair.

“There was kind of a click,” Roger said.

“A fit that developed more over time. I went away to college, but we saw each other close to every weekend. And we got married right when I got out of college.”

Jeannette agreed, “It was really meant to be.”

When Roger joined the army, distance was introduced to the relationship.

“It takes work to have a good marriage, and by that I don’t mean it’s a struggle,” he said. “Sometimes you just have to pay

attention. It’s a miracle that people can change in compatible ways. Both of us are different people than we were back in high school, but we’ve been lucky the changes have been compatible. We’re still best friends and plan to stay that way.”

The Beckers grew up close to St. Louis and moved to Chicago in 1996. Roger teaches a current events class and joined a gentlemen’s club, and Jeannette stays active at church and various seniors groups. “(Chicago) has so much energy, it revitalized us,” Roger said. “We take advantage of what Chicago has to offer.”

For the Clancys, Chicago is not their permanent home. Having Florida to escape to during winter helped the marriage blossom from the start.

“Another thing that was wise of us,” D said. “Bill hates the cold weather, so after we got married we moved to Florida over the winter and into May. I think starting out life with each other there, we got a chance to know each other better.”

Through thick and thin, the couples have grown together, mourned losses together, and loved deeply together.

But there is always some luck involved.

“We’ve been lucky,” Jeanette said. “I got a really great guy.”

No winter break for the marine unit in Chicago

By Doug Rapp Staff Writer In the summertime, you see police boats and helicopters cruising the shoreline.

But during winter, although the lakefront is desolate—save for a few hardy joggers—it doesn’t mean the marine unit isn’t working.

“During the winter, we still see a fair amount of activity on the lake as the marine unit is still responsible for various Homeland

Security checks, lakefront and river patrols and emergency rescues of individuals that may fall in or be discovered in the lake,” said Anthony Guglielmi, chief communications officer with the Chicago Police Department.

“It’s also when the officers within the unit complete much of their mandated departmental training,” he said.

Sgt. Eddie Beltran, training and dive coordinator for the marine unit, said

A CPD marine unit boat patrols the lake. Photo by Freddy Love

winter can be just as busy as summer.

People end up in the water “all the time,” he said.

“It doesn’t change because

of the weather.”

Beltran cited a recent incident when a park district salt truck slid into the lake near Oak Street beach. The

two employees escaped the truck before it submerged, according to ABC7 Chicago, and the marine unit helped recover the vehicle.

Beltran said the group also does ice training in the winter to simulate rescues when the lake and river are frozen.

“It’s different with the ice.” he said. “We always tell people there’s no such thing as safe ice. People walk out on the ice and it’s possible they could fall through and

get themselves in trouble.”

A 12-year veteran of the marine unit, Beltran said all officers are certified divers and their equipment is able to handle the brutal Chicago winters. They wear “drysuits,” which are completely waterproof, along with full face masks.

“It protects us from contaminants but also protects us from exposure,” Beltran said. “It’s pretty good in the winter...we’re completely encapsulated.”

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Police want to keep Streeterville residents safe

By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer Streeterville police want to work with residents to help keep them safe.

After a slew of violent muggings and surprise carjackings in Streeterville at the end of December and beginning of January, 18th District police held a community meeting on Jan. 11 to discuss safety tips, plus the efforts being made to combat crime in the area.

Officer Theresa Kelly led the talk, with help from Detective Colin O’Shea. They both emphasized the notion of being aware.

“Maintain awareness of the people and circumstances around you,” said Kelly.

Kelly said people should trust their gut feelings if they feel in danger.

Detective O’Shea noted that using a phone while you walk can be dangerous and unsafe in several ways.

“Stealing a phone is an instant $100 to $200 (for a thief),” O’Shea said.

Paying too much attention to a phone can leave you unaware and make you look like an easy target.

Shoulders are hunched, attention is on the phone and hands are occupied.

O’Shea and Kelly also warned residents to be wary of people soliciting donations—it can be a sleight of hand trick to steal something. If you want to help the community, research what official charities are in the area, and donate or volunteer there.

“Carry as little on you as possible,” said Kelly.

Kelly and O’Shea recommended carrying portable alarm

Commander Daniel O’Shea addresses the Streeterville community about safety. Photo by Stephanie Racine

systems that make a loud noise when pressed. They are available for under $10 on Amazon, but Kelly reminded the crowd to keep the alarm in your hand— not in your bag or pocket—so it can be easily accessed.

Keeping a purse or bag on your weaker shoulder is advised by Kelly

and O’Shea. Having your stronger hand free is recommended. Crossbody bags should only be worn under coats—thieves will take victims down in their attempts to steal purses.

Many residents were grateful for the advice, but wanted to know how the police are going to

respond to these attacks.

Commander Daniel O’Shea was also present and he assured the attendees that they had asked for more resources from the city, including more officers, both uniformed and plain-clothed.

Alderman Brian Hopkins said he was working with police to make sure they would get those resources. Hopkins said he had received a phone call from the Mayor’s office approving extra police resources in Streeterville during the meeting.

Police reminded the crowd to always call 911 if they see anything suspicious. They also reminded residents to attend CAPS meetings to further discuss ongoing crime in the area.

The next CAPS meeting for Streeterville is 6 p.m., March 5, at Access Living, 115 W. Chicago Ave.

‘It made me unique’ Chicagoans enjoy having Leap Year birthday

By Doug Rapp Staff Writer The odds are 1 in 1,461 that you’ll be born on Leap Day, Feb. 29.

2020 is a leap year, with an extra day tacked on the calendar every four years to keep the seasons lined up with the 365-and-a-quarter days it takes for the earth to orbit the sun.

Whether they’re called Leaplings, Leapers or 29ers, many Chicagoans said they enjoy having a unique birthday even if it doesn’t come every year.

Ben Stumpf, who works in the West Loop, is a doubly special Leap Day baby since he has a twin brother, Brad.

“We have been featured on the news a few times (since) it makes us something like 1 in 4 million,” Stumpf said, referencing the odds of twins being born on Leap Day. The Old Town resident said he loves

Ben Stumpf (left) celebrates his 28th (and 7th Leap Day) birthday with his twin brother, Brad. Photo courtesy of Ben Stumpf

being a Leap Year baby.

“It enables me to have the easiest ice breaker out there and makes for a good excuse to have a large bash every four years,” Stumpf said.

On off years, he said he celebrates on

both Feb. 28 and March 1, but he goes big on Leap Years.

“I rent a party bus in Cleveland, where I grew up, and visit different hot dog establishments with 50 of my closest friends (and) hot dog enthusiasts each year,” Stumpf said. “This year will be the biggest as we are attempting to piggy-back our birthday with the crawl.”

Patrick Foys, of Carol Stream, said he had a vague notion his birthday was special but didn’t fully understand the concept until he was 10 years old.

Foys said his parents usually celebrated his birthday on Feb. 28 while he was growing up but he didn’t enjoy non-Leap Year birthdays, instead celebrated special ages.

Having a Leap Day birthday doesn’t cause many problems, Foys said, although he occasionally comes across a form that doesn’t accept Feb. 29 as a date.

“Also, I recall that after Y2K in 2000, there was a mini-Y2K on Feb. 29, 2000 that

most people didn’t know about,” he added.

Carolyn Young of Evanston was born on Leap Day 1984. Like Foys, she became aware of the uniqueness of her birthday when she was 8 years old, her second Leap Day. However, she didn’t enjoy it at first.

“I didn’t understand it,” Young said.

“Other kids also asked a lot of questions and it got annoying to try to keep explaining it.”

As more birthdays passed, she grew to appreciate her Leap Day birthday, even if some of her family and friends’ phones and computers don’t have a Feb. 29 to plug in birthday reminders.

“But as I got older I really liked it—it made me unique,” Young said. “It’s perfect for places where you are asked to share something special about yourself—always an easy one.

It is also fun when making appointments and such and they ask your birthday—there is often a pause and then an ‘oh cool.’”

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

Ongoing

Feb. 4

Emma A new musical based on the famous novel by Jane Austen. Emma Woodhouse is obsessed with matchmaking, albeit with misguided skill. Lora Lee Gayer stars as the titular character. The production runs throughout February and until March 15. Times vary, tickets start at $35, Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com

Neighborhood Networking Night The Young Professionals Streeterville present a free event for the young adult community of Streeterville to meet, network and connect. There is no charge for admission, but food and beverages will be available for purchase. 6-8 p.m., free, The Hampton Social, 164 E. Grand Ave., ypstreeterville@gmail.com

First and Third Wednesdays Soiree de Salsa The beginning of a bimonthly event for 2020. Salsa music and dancing at The Drake Hotel will include the sounds of DJ Prieto. Prieto will also give a free salsa lesson from 6:30-7:15 p.m. Cover includes two drink tickets. 6:30-11:30 p.m., $20, The Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, (312) 787-2200, 4fantasticevents.com

Feb. 9-23

Men Are From Mars—Women Are From Venus LIVE! Recommended for those 13 and up, the show is based on the famous book by John Gray. The comedy is presented in a series of vignettes that covers hilarious topics that come up in dating and marriage. Times vary, tickets start at $69, Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut St., (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com

Feb. 12-23

The Times Are Racing The Joffrey Ballet presents a mixed repertory program with four of Chicago’s leading choreographers. The eponymous “The Times Are Racing” is a Chicago premiere by choreographer Justin Peck.

Four other works will also be showcased.

Times vary, tickets start at $35, Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, (312) 386-8905, joffrey.org

Feb. 13-23

Chicago Theatre Week During Chicago Theatre week, Chicago shows offer tickets for just $15 or

Amadeo Fusca stars in Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus LIVE! Photo courtesy of Men are from Mars Women are from Venus LIVE!

$30—sometimes less. Shows include “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical,” “The Rover” and “Blue Man Group.”

Performances are all across Chicago to showcase the entirety of Chicago theater.

Times vary, prices vary, locations vary, choosechicago.com

Through Feb. 9

Chicago Restaurant Week 400 restaurants will participate in Chicago Restaurant Week this year. Special course prix fixe menus will be offered at these restaurants in affordable price ranges. Reservations are not required to participate in Restaurant Week, but they are recommended. Times vary, $24 for lunch or brunch, $36 or $48 for dinner, locations vary, choosechicago.com/ chicago-restaurant-week

Through Feb. 16

Wake Up, Brother Bear!

An interactive show for kids ages 0-6.

The story follows two loveable bears through the four seasons. There will be pre and post show activities in the lobby for the little ones including music and interactive movements, with butterflies and waterfalls to see. Saturdays and

Tuesday Tasting Tour On the first Tuesday of every month, join Bar Ramone to tour a featured wine region. February’s tasting tour will explore Oregon’s pinot gris, chardonnay and pinot noir wines. Wine tastings will be paired with snacks included in ticket price. Visit Tock for reservations. 6-7 p.m., $35, Bar Ramone, 441 N. Clark St., (312) 985-6909, exploretock.com

Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., $22-$32, Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Station, 100 S. Racine Ave., (312) 374-8835, chicagochildenstheatre.org

Feb. 1

Navigating Transitions Workshop The Transition Network, a supportive group for women 50 plus, presents a workshop to help combat the changes that come from lifestyle changes. For those women who need help transitioning to the next chapter of their lives. Email chicagochapter@thetransitionnetwork.org for more information. 9a.m.-1p.m., $50 for nonmembers, 345 E. Ohio St., (630) 567-0299, thetransitionnetwork.org Chili CookOff The 15th Annual Chili CookOff at The Columbia Yacht Club is for chili makers and spectators alike. Nonmembers are more than welcome to come and vote on their favorite chili, best side dish, best name and best presentation. Judged categories include meat, vegetarian and overall best. 6 p.m., $20 for spectators, Columbia Yacht Club Rail Deck, 111 N. Lakeshore Drive, (312) 938-3625, columbiayachtclub.org

Kamayan feast at Sunda. Photo courtesy of Sunda

Feb. 6

Kamayan Feast A traditional Filipino Kamayan Feast. A communal dining experience, feast-goers will enjoy Lechon Kawali, which is Filipino pork belly, soft shell crab, shrimp and chicken skewers, whole crispy snapper and more. Tickets are available for purchase on Sunda’s website. 6 p.m., $55, Sunda, 110 W. Illinois St., (312) 644-0500, sundanewasian.com Events continue on page 14

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

Feb. 7

Badfish: Tribute to Sublime Join Sublime tribute band Badfish as they channel the spirit of Sublime. Sublime found fame in the 90s, before the untimely loss of their lead singer Brad Nowell in 1996. Tropidelic and Little Stranger also will play. For those over 17.

6:30 p.m., $20, House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn St., (312) 923-2000, houseofblues.com/chicago

Feb. 10

Newborn Care: The First 48 Hours and Beyond Join Weissbluth Pediatrics in their free expectant parent class series. Subjects discussed including feeding, rashes, sleeping and how to tell if your newborn is not feeling well. Questions and answers will be conducted at the end of class. 6-7:30 p.m., free, Weissbluth Pediatrics, 737 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 820, (312) 202-0300, weissbluthpediatrics.com

Feb. 12

Expectant Parent Dinner Bump Club and Beyond expert Janeen Hayward of Swellbeing will discuss newborn sleep strategies and safety and answer questions. Part of Bump Club’s expectant parent dinner series. Dinner and dessert will be served, along with gift bags to take home. 6-8:30 p.m., tickets start at $40, Foodlife in Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., bumpclubandbeyond.com

Feb. 13

Town Hall: Pedestrian Safety on Michigan Ave. A town hall discussion on how to make Michigan Avenue safer for pedestrians.

A panel will present on these issues, including Alderman Hopkins and Mamta Swaroop, a trauma surgeon at Northwestern. Michigan Avenue is the third highest crash site in Chicago.

Email info@skylinevillagechicago.org for more information. 6 p.m., free, Ogden Elementary School, 24 W. Walton St., (312) 638-9293

February races Cupid’s Undie Run 1 mile - Noon, Saturday, Feb. 8 - Sluggers World Class Sports Bar Universal Sole Valentine’s Trail Challenge 4.5 miles - 9 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 8 - Schiller Woods Honda Miles Per Hour 1 hour indoor run - 8 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 16 - McCormick Place Hustle Chicago Climb stair climb - Sunday, Feb. 23 - John Hancock Building Rosé and Roses A “Galentine’s Day” event. Celebrating beauty and roses, the event focuses on networking with other professional women who live in Chicago. Guests will receive a complimentary glass of wine, a rose and a chance to win more prizes. Tickets available for purchase on Eventbrite. 6-9 p.m., $20, W Hotel Lakeshore, 644 N. Lakeshore Drive, myluvtalk@gmail.com

Feb. 14

Denise Thimes Quintet Critically acclaimed jazz singer Denise Thimes comes to Winter’s Jazz club. Join in on this special Valentine’s Day event with plenty of love songs meant to serenade. One drink minimum in addition to ticket price. 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., tickets start at $20, Winter’s Jazz Club, 465 N. McClurg Court, (312) 344-1270, wintersjazzclub.com Champagne and Sparkling Wine Fest A champagne and sparkling wine tasting will include a variety of samplings, plus passed hors d’oeuvres and a sweets table. This event is for those 21 and up only. Freebies are included with ticket purchase, like a $7 credit with DoorDash. 7-11 p.m., tickets start at $49, IO Rooftop at the Godfrey Hotel, 127 W. Huron St., (312) 374-1830, chicagochampagnefest.com

Feb. 15

Hearts and Hugs Memories with Mom Bring your American Girl and make daughter and mom memories. Enjoy a meal, crafts, plus a fun game that involves the memories mom and daughter have together. For girls 8 and up, attendees will also receive a goody bag to take home. 9:30-11:30 a.m., $31.50 per person, American Girl Store Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com

Feb. 19

Irresistible: The Rise of Screens and the War for Attention Join Associate Professor of Marketing at NYU, Adam Alter to discuss rising excessive phone use, the consequences and the possible solutions. Part of the Think Better series with Chicago Booth Business School’s Center for Decision Research. Registration required. 5-7 p.m., free, Gleacher Center, 450 Cityfront Plaza Drive, Room 621, (773) 834-9857, research.chicagobooth.edu/cdr/events

Feb. 22

Chicago Dance Marathon In support of Lurie Children’s Hospital, join this fundraising event to help support those being treated at Lurie.

Register as a team, an individual, or even virtually to dance all day while raising money for a good cause. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., single adult registration is $50 with a recommended $250 fundraising goal, kids under 12 are free, Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile, 540 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 836-0100, foundation.lurieschildren.org Sake and Japanese Spirits Festival A tasting event at Japanese restaurant Katana. Small bites will be available for purchase at the event. A regular ticket includes three hours of tastings, VIP includes an extra hour plus an opportunity to meet spirit brewers. 2-5 p.m., $50 for general admission, Katana, 339 N. Dearborn St., (312) 877-5544, katanarobata.com

Feb. 23

International Carnivale Celebration Carnivale is a celebration across the world. Enjoy bands and dancers from carnivale-celebrating places like Italy, the Caribbean, New Orleans and Brazil.

Food and drink will be available for purchase. 1-5 p.m., free, Navy Pier, Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7436, navypier.org

Feb. 28

Belgian Brasserie Dinner & Tombola A 15th annual dinner that celebrates Belgian cuisine. Ticket includes a welcome glass of Belgian beer or red or white wine. An array of appetizers followed by your choice between White Fish filets meuniere or Waterzooi of Poultry as in Ghent. 6:30-10:30 p.m., $88, Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago, 163 E. Walton Place, (773) 342-6884, eurochicago.org

Feb. 28

Skyline Village Chicago: Friday Forum A representative from the League of Women Voters will be discussing the upcoming March 17 Illinois Primary Election. Who is on the ballot? What’s on the ballot? Questions will be answered. RSVP to info@skylinevillagechicago.org. 1-3p.m.,free, Mity Nice Grill, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Mezzanine Level, (312) 638-9293

Feb. 29

Duro Olowu: Seeing Chicago Opening day of this maximist exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art. An all-day and museum-wide event will include custom nail art designs by Chicago nail artist Astro Wifey, based on Olowu’s art. Other activities include a photo booth and an artist-guide tour. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., free with admission, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org

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| NEWS BREAK |

Cold weather not a problem for Chicago golfers

I

f you are a hard-core golfer stuck in the throes of long Chicago winters, there is no need to worry.

It’s not necessary to plan trips to warm exotic locations to play your favorite game. You can put the plane ticket away, cancel Jon Cohn COMMUNITY hotel reservations and killer CONTRIBUTOR greens fees and tell your golf buddies, you’re saving money and staying home this winter.

Plenty of indoor golf options have opened in Chicago’s

downtown. Oftentimes just a stone’s throw from where you work or live.

Among the options are indoor facilities such as Play 18 Chicago, 17 N. Wabash, TopGolf Swing Suites, 900 N. Michigan Ave., My Chicago Golf, 707 N. Milwaukee Ave., Catalyst Golf Performance, 440 LaSalle St. (in the Chicago Stock Exchange building), Five Iron Golf Chicago, 609 N. Dearborn and in the neighborhood, The Lakeshore Fitness Club.

All offer the unique option of playing golf indoors and include a variety of league and game play competitions.

The new indoor golf facilities use high-level technology.

You will hear terms such as “Trackman Launch Analysis,” “Quintac Ball Roll Analysis” and “Immersive Golf

Technology.” Not sure what they all mean (I had a bad sophomore year geometry class flashback just writing those words) but all are designed to fine tune the avid golfers game and give optimal realism in play.

With the improvements in video technology and virtual reality, golfers can now “play’’ 50 of the greatest golf courses in the world indoors, and all with the sound of snow plows and shovels hovering just outside.

A new day hath dawned for winter golf enthusiasts in New Eastside, which funnily enough is itself built on the site of Chicago’s first public golf course.

John Cohn is a New Eastside resident.

Out and About in December

Jumble NOCI ADRYH

BTEDAI WNTEI

Send photos and captions to info@neweastsidecommunity.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.

Where does today come before yesterday?

?

January answer: What question can you never answer yes to? Are you asleep

Where am I? Do you know where this is?

If you think you know, email us at info@neweastsidecommunity.com.

Answer to January Where am I? The northeast end of DuSable Bridge (Michigan Ave. bridge). Congratulations to Jacqueline Hairston and Ilona Polinovsky for correctly identifying the spot.

Steve Wine (from left), Arun Midha, Susan Templeton, Kim Taylor and Jill Wine-Banks at lunch at Le Colonial on Dec. 26. Photo courtesy of SOAR

Megan Turnquist, Mark Piroch and Paul Deziel attend a Jan. 22 performance of “Roe” at the Goodman Theatre. Photo by Stephanie Racine

Barbara Thomas (from left), Russ Fahrner and Charlene Roderick at a social event at the Parkshore. Photo by Mat Cohen

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