VOL. 7 NO. 1
Got a story tip or question? Call (312) 690-3092
January 2019
www.neatside.com
FREE
WINTER RISING
It’s cold, it’s windy and it’s hot: Chicago tourism heats up in winter
Cooking up a healthier you for 2019 Page 8 Designer crafts classes for kids Page 11
Page 7 Volunteer Chicago greeter Wally Braun makes friends with Belgian tourist Jessy Kyndt at Cloud Gate. Photo by Jesse Wright
GEMS Upper School tops out
Page 4
Doorperson of the month: Gail Rogers
Page 5
Better etiquette in the workplace lunch room Page 9 Quiet, please: Chicago downtown gets new noise law Page 10
Will Starbucks save downtown retail?
Page 10
2 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
How to Contact Us
info@neweastsidecommunity.com
(312) 690-3092
Editor: Elaine Hyde elaineh@neweastsidecommunity.com Staff Writers: Elizabeth Czapski Angela Gagnon Stephanie Racine Jesse Wright Copy Editors: Ben Kowalski Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design: Bob Oswald Community Contributors: Jon Cohn
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. Copyright Š2019. All rights reserved.
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
PEDWAY TOUR Sponsored by New Eastside News & Streeterville News
Learn the fastest way into the Loop Friday, February 15, 2019 at 6:30 p.m.
Meet in the lobby of Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
Tickets $20 at neweastsidenews.eventbrite.com Duration 30 minutes. Tour departs promptly. Email info@neweastsidecommunity.com for more information
(312) 690-3092
Index News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 Community Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-14 News Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
N E W S
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 3
| NEWS |
Resident wants more security in parking garages By Jesse Wright Staff Writer After his classic car was stolen, a resident in the 400 E. Randolph condos is worried police and building personnel are not doing enough to stop a pattern of car thefts. At a New Eastside CAPS meeting in November, Sergeant Anthony Dombrowski mentioned a theft of a classic car in the area earlier in the fall. Dombrowski did not provide many details of either the car or the suspect but urged drivers to make sure unknown people did not follow cars into closed parking garages. Michael Basil, who also reported his classic automobile stolen from his residency on Randolph that same month, said he believes there is a pattern of classic car thefts. Basil said he knows of three car thefts and a motorcycle theft in the area, and is upset there is not more of an effort to get the word out about the pattern in the crimes.
Chicago police and conndo management did not respond to requests for comment. Basil said, based on security footage provided to him by his building, the car thief seemed to know what he was doing. “It took the guy seven minutes of getting in and out,” Basil said. Police told him there is a warrant out for a suspect, but so far—after nearly two months—there have been no arrests, Basil said. Basil said his car was stolen at around noon on Nov. 6 and an alert doorman at his building noticed his 1969 Oldsmobile 98 convertible was taken. “The doorman called me right away and said, ‘Mike, it looks like your car was taken,’” Basil said. He said the suspect touched a video camera to push it away from the car and left fingerprints. Basil said he understands vehicle thefts aren’t violent crimes and may not be a high priority, but believes the issue
needs to be made public because the same man has stolen other vehicles. “He also stole a motorcycle out of the building, but he was caught while he was on it, dropped the bike and ran,” Basil said. Basil described the suspect as a 60-year-old man and said his building management has not put out any building-wide notices. “There are many classic cars in the building,” he said. “There was no emphasis in these CAPS meetings or any internal communications sent to the residents or the public.” Basil said he hopes residents and locals will alert authorities if they see strangers lurking around parking areas and he hopes buildings will put security guards in the parking areas. “Don’t take our neighborhood for granted,” Basil urged residents. “If you see someone who looks suspicious, just call 911 and tell them you see someone who looks suspicious. All these buildings need to step up their security outside.”
NEWS BRIEFS Aon Center observation deck project given green light by plan commission In December, the Chicago Plan Commission approved plans for an observation deck at the Aon Center. The project will include an external elevator and a rooftop restaurant as well as numerous local improvements and amenities. With the approval from the plan commission, the project will go before the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards for approval on Jan. 17 and then it will go before the City Council on Jan. 23. The project is expected to cost $185 million and besides the rooftop restaurant and the observation platform, the project would also offer visitors the Sky
A rendering of the top of the Aon Center with a proposed observation desk. Courtesy of 601W.
Summit, a cab that would lift visitors over the building’s edge and a virtual reality flight experience. If the City Council approves the plan, it will make the Aon Center the city’s third skyline observatory.
Michigan Avenue improvements begin
Portions of the Riverwalk were closed in mid-December and will remain closed through May from Lake Shore Drive to Wabash Ave.
Michael Basil poses in his now-stolen Oldsmobile. Basil said he is concerned police and building security are doing little to prevent or solve a series of classic car thefts. Photo courtesy Mike Basil
for construction work on older sections. The repairs should create more opportunities for residents and tourists to visit the river as the improvements include recreation areas, a children’s play area, more public art and better landscaping. Since 2011, the city has worked to build the Chicago River area as a recreational park area with access points located along every mile. The plan was mostly completed in 2016, though the city continues to improve the design. The current repairs will cost about $10 million and most of the work will go through the winter months to avoid impacting tourism.
the April 2 runoff in the 42nd Ward for the municipal election. Election Judges are assigned to local polling places in the 42nd Ward and are responsible for ensuring polling places open and close on time and that voting operations run smoothly. Judges must complete a brief training session prior to election day. Judges earn $190 for their service. The Board of Elections Commissioners is accepting online applications for judges at chipollworker.com. A paper application can also be downloaded and mailed in.
Election judges sought for 42nd Ward
The first installment of the Tax Year 2018 property tax bill may
Election judges are sought for the Feb. 26 election and
Property taxes may be prepaid now
Turn to News Briefs, Page 14
4 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
| NEWS |
GEMS holds topping out ceremony for last beam in new building By Jesse Wright Staff Writer The topping out ceremony is an old ritual for new buildings. The ceremony celebrates when the final beam is laid in place and is a milestone for any project. On Nov. 30 the New Eastside's GEMS World Academy held a topping out ceremony for their new Upper School building. With the addition of the new building, GEMS can expand class sizes add grade levels. The school currently serves students in preschool to 10th grade. The building is located at 355 E. Wacker Drive, behind the main building at 350 East South Water St. and the Upper School means more than just extra space. Students will get a full-sized gym, music practice rooms, new lockers and classrooms dedicated to design courses. This represents the largest expansion to date for the five-year-old campus. Thomas M. Cangiano, head of the school since July of 2018, said he understands what a big
GEMS students look on at the school’s topping out ceremony in late November. The ceremony marks the end of structural construction on the school’s newest building. Photo by Jesse Wright
deal the topping out ceremony is for the students and faculty. “All the work is going to be in the interior from now on,” he said. “When the kids left the school last spring
(in 2018), they left a hole in the ground. So to see this frame come up so quickly and to see there were already a few floors built, I think it gives the kids a sense of how
quickly the building can go up.” Cangiano said he hopes the Upper Building will wow the neighbors as well. Much of the first floor will feature practice studios for dance and other activities and all the action will be visible to pedestrians through large plate glass windows. The building will be ready for move in by the fall 2019 semester. As Chicagoans will be able to look in, Cangiano wants the students to look out, beyond the school and into the heart of the city. The school has a sizeable international student population, but Cangiano has long maintained that the school must prepare international citizens to also be citizens of Chicago. “You can’t really be a true international citizen unless you’re a good local citizen,” he said. “You have to understand the context in which you live and go to school and play and the economics, economic development, transportation, infrastructure and mundane things like revenue and expenses.”
Connecting Students to The Future Through coding and robotics, an integrated STEAM program, daily world-language instruction and a global curriculum, GEMS prepares young people to transform the world.
Take a Tour Today! www.gemschicago.org
1-312-809-8910 | admissions@gemschicago.org
Select spots available, preschool through high school.
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
N E W S
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 5
| COMMUNITY CORNER |
Doorperson of the Month
Gail Rogers at the Park Millennium building By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Gail Rogers is the doorperson at the Park Millennium building at 222 N. Columbus Drive in the New Eastside. But she’s more than a doorperson. When she is not helping residents, Rogers said she enjoys bowling. “I’m a bowler and I’ve been doing it for years,” she said. Rogers said on a good night she can get to 150 or 165, but no matter what her score, she said just being on the lanes is stress free. “I started bowling when I was 17,” Rogers said. “I liked it because I was able to do it. I could actually bowl. I had never did it before and my family said, ‘well, come on try it.’” Rogers is the New Eastside doorperson for the month She’s also an avid pool player. Gail of January. Photo by Jesse Wright “I love it,” she said. “My person should use their ear. “I listen a lot. two favorite sports are bowling and I am a very good listener,” Rogers said. “A shooting pool.” lot of people come at you and they’re very She has been at her current job since angry and a lot of times you just have to 2005. The Park Millennium building is a listen. If they vent, you’re able to help them high-traffic area, so much so that Rogers said it’s probably one of the busiest condos even more, but just be patient with them. Let them vent.” in the downtown area. Rogers is a born-and-raised ChicagoBesides liking people, Rogers said an and, while she currently lives in the a good door person has to be patient suburbs, she said she has an affinity for because all those people have individual working in the downtown area. personalities and needs. “You definitely “This area here is so convenient,” she have got to be patient, and you got to like said. “I take the Metra (to work). And we what you do,” she said. Rogers said doorhave a pedway system, so I can go to the people who don’t love the job typically leave the work because dealing with people pedway system and get on the Metra and I don’t have to go outside. I think that’s great can be tough. “You got to love people and this time of year.” constant interaction,” she said. “You really do. And then everyone is happy and they To nominate your favorite doorperson, smile a lot.” email info@neweastsidecommunity.com Not every interaction begins with a with the doorperson’s name and why you smile. Rogers said sometimes people can think they should be the doorperson of the be in a bad mood or they can be frustratmonth. Each winner will receive a $25 gift ed, and those moods aren’t overcome with card to Mariano’s. a smile. For that, she said, a good door-
COLLABORATIVE | PREMARITAL | FAMILY | DIVORCE | MEDIATION
Strategic support, creative guidance, effective leadershi�: these are the qualities we offer our clients as they work through their challenges. CONVENIENT DOWNTOWN LOOP OFFICE
CHICAGO & EVANSTON
161 North Clark Street, Suite 1600 | Chicago, IL 60601 312-360-1124 | Lawyers@bsbpc.com BrigitteBell.com | BrigitteSchmidtBellPC
Does your office space reflect your success?
312.577.7602
carrworkplaces.com/aon-center
6 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
| NEWS |
Top Chicago hotel, restaurant openings in 2019 The New Year will bring new developments to the city. Here are the top new developments residents can look forward to this year.
is nothing if not ambitious. Engel will serve up the usual pita and hummus, but he will also feature Midwestern produce to combine the familiar with the foreign against a formal dining background. Galit will open in Lincoln Park at 2429 N. Lincoln Ave.
Hotels
Residencies
Actor and New York developer Robert DeNiro is coming to Chicago. DeNiro’s development team is opening the Nobu Hotel in December 2019 along Restaurant Row. In addition to luxury hotel rooms, the property will boast a street-level Japanese restaurant and a rooftop lounge. The Hotel Essex has been working on its Michigan Avenue property for a while, and it’s expected to open in May 2019. Located at 800 S. Michigan Ave., across from Grant Park, the hotel will be in the heart of the city and offer 254 rooms. The Hilton brand will open another Homewood Suites in downtown Chicago in May. This one will be across from Grant Park at 1101 S. Wabash Ave., within easy
New for the New Eastside, the Vista Tower project is expected to wrap up this year. At 1,191 feet, the tower has 101 floors and at floor 47, there is an outdoor pool, a reservable kitchen and a wine-tasting room. Nema, at 1200 S. Indiana Ave., will be completed this year. The building will offer 76 floors and 800 units and stands 887 feet tall. The luxury apartments are sure to make a mark on the South Loop. In Streeterville, the One Bennett Park building at 514 N. Peshtigo Court is already open, but on the top floors of the luxury apartments, the work continues. The 70-story building will be completed in 2019 after the final condominiums are finished.
By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
Vista Tower is set to open in 2019 in the New Eastside area. Photo courtesy Studio Gang
walking distance to the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium.
Restaurants Some of the top names in Korean food are coming to the city. Dave Park and Jennifer Tran operated Hanbun in Westmont
until early 2018, and now they’re looking to open Jeong at 1460 W. Chicago Ave. Park offers a modern take on Korean food in a fine-dining space, and Jeong will hold about 40 people. James Beard Award-winning chef Zach Engel’s Israeli restaurant Galit
Old is OK in Skyline Village Chicago By Elizabeth Czapski Staff Writer At 76, Phyllis Mitzen is — in her words — an old woman. Others might use words such as elderly or mature but Mitzen does not. Old is OK, she says, and so is aging, provided people have the right resources and this is where Skyline Village Chicago comes in. As president of Skyline Village Chicago, an organization for older adults, Mitzen spends a lot of time thinking about aging. According to Village to Village Network, the concept of a “Virtual Village” is simple—an organization for older adults that provides access to services, fosters community rela-
tionships and does “anything [its] members need to age safely and successfully in their own homes.” The Village model began in Boston over 15 years ago and has been spreading since. These organizations not only connect to other villages, but also connect members to each other. Skyline Village Chicago is open to residents of Streeterville, the Gold Coast, River North and New Eastside. Mitzen said while other villages in the Chicago area focus on providing access to services and transportation, the neighborhoods that Skyline Village covers tend to be “resource-rich,” meaning they have resources for the elderly. Because of this, the Village
focuses on socialization, so neighbors can get to know each other, Mitzen said. Through Skyline Village’s newsletter, residents find out about local news, event dates and life updates from members. Mitzen’s favorite village event is the Women’s Salon, which meets monthly to talk about “what it means to grow old in our society.” She said it’s not a therapy group, but a place to share information, talk about ageism and come to an “active understanding of our aging selves.” The village also has an advocacy group, Mitzen said, which advocates for senior issues. For instance, the group is working with the park district to discuss installing equipment for all ages in the city’s
Jack Jennings, former staff Director for US House of Representatives Council on Education and Labor, speaks at Skyline Village Chicago's Friday Forum. Photo provided by Phyllis Mitzen
playgrounds, Mitzen said. She added that “owning old” is something that comes up often in the Women’s Salon and something she tries to do every day. “There are frailties, and people do become disabled when they
grow older, but it shouldn't mean that their voices aren't as strong,” she said. “I'm happy to be able to do what I'm doing at age 76, and if I can't do it when I'm age 80, I'll still be an old woman who deserves respect.”
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 7
| FEATURES |
Soft-Baked Dog Treats
Made from upcycled nutritious ingredients
5 Delicious Flavors
MADE WITH ALL NATURAL GRAIN FREE INGREDIENTS WITH ADDED DAILY SUPPORT
Tourists still flock to the city’s Christmas Tree no matter the mercury. Photo by Jesse Wright
SO COLD AND YET IT’S HOT, HOT, HOT Chicago activities lure winter tourists
By Elizabeth Czapski Staff Writer Winter in Chicago means one thing—cold. Chicago might not be Miami, but Chicago gets visitors even in the depths of winter. Some come for conferences and others come for vacation, but the city seeks to welcome all winter tourists with warm smiles and plenty to do. “People think of the city as being very cold and unfriendly, but actually the weather in Chicago can be great in the winter time, and there are great things to do,” Erik Grazetti, director of sales and marketing at the Loews Chicago Hotel, 455 N. Park Drive, said. He explained that the city has done a good job of marketing itself as a destination for people in surrounding states who want to break out of winter’s “cabin fever” by offering a variety of activities like the Chicago Auto Show, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, sporting events and concerts. Colleen Sweitzer, marketing manager at the
Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, said in addition to events for the holidays, so much of Chicago’s culture involves “great indoor fun,” including museum exhibits, theater and music. Once visitors get to Chicago there will always be a personal, smiling face at the ready. No matter what the reason or the season, Choose Chicago, the official marketing organization for the city, said their Chicago Greeter program pairs volunteer city greeters with individuals who may want a local to show them around. The service is available all year long, except on major holidays and it could come in handy for those visitors who come to the city at the last minute and don’t have a set itinerary. This sort of a visit is more common in the winter time than some might expect. “Seventy or 80 percent of our business on the [winter] weekends comes from within about a four hour drive of the hotel,” Grazetti said. Local travelers, he said, can plan a trip more last-minute Turn to Winter tourism, page 11
Order directly from shamelesspets.com for 20% off. Use promo code CHICAGO. Free shipping. Also available on Amazon.com
Pet Month of the
BROUGHT TO YOU BY EAST SIDE VETERINARY CLINIC The January Pet of the Month is Marshall. Marshall is a yellow lab/hound mix whom his owners, New Eastsiders Laura and Shane, rescued several years ago. He’s about 10 years old and he enjoys walks in the Lakeshore East Park, eating and, according to Laura, he “really likes” watching golf on television, even though no one else in the house shares his passion for the sport. The New Eastside News’ January pet of the Month is sponsored by East Side Veterinary Clinic, a local full-service vet clinic open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The clinic is located at 333 East Benton Place in Suite 205. Their phone number is (312) 753-5551 or visit the clinic online at mysouthloopvet.com.
EAST
SIDE
VETERINARY CLINIC
8 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
STAY IN AND GET FIT
Don’t let bad manners eat your lunch at work
The best places to stay active inside
By Leontina Richardson President of Stepping Into Etiquette
By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer
Karl Bader of Karl’s Kraft Soups seals up containers of his eponymous meals. Photo by Stephanie Racine
Season of Soup
Local chefs give tips to making the perfect broth By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer Cold months call for warm meals, and a bowl of hot soup fits the bill. Takeout soups can be cumbersome and can come with unhealthy amounts of sodium, heavy fats and starches, but when soup is made at home, it can be healthy and delicious. Local professional and amateur chefs shared their tips for a delectable—and healthy— homemade soup. Karl Bader of Karl’s Kraft Soups focuses on vegan and vegetarian soups. When Bader makes his vegetable stock—the base of many of his soups—he roasts his vegetables first in the oven at high heat. “I blast them at around 550 degrees, then I throw them into the pot with water,” Bader said. Roasting them at such a high heat makes the vegetables delicate, so he only keeps the stock on the stove for about a half hour. “I generally wait until the very end to season things with salt,” he said. Adding salt over time is unnecessary for flavor, and makes the soup more unhealthy, according to Bader. Fresh herbs go in at
the end of the process, but that is mainly for flavor. “If you cook fresh herbs a long time, they just completely lose their punch and vitality,” he said. Bader recommends using potatoes as a thickener in lieu of flour or cream. New Eastside resident Sue Carrel also uses this method, and recommends adding raw cashews. Carrel suggests blending cooked veggies in a broth, cashews and a pre-cooked potato in a blender. “Heat and you have a delicious cream soup,” she said. Streeterville resident Kitty Kurth adds whatever frozen vegetables are on hand to her soup bases. She recommends adding chopped kale or spinach to soups like split pea, for an extra serving of vegetables. “After I strain the broth, the boiled down veggie scraps go into the compost,” she said. Karl’s Kraft Soups are available at the SOAR Farmer’s Market in Streeterville in the summer. In the winter, his soups are available at any Foxtrot Market. He is also at the Indoor Hyde Park Farmer’s Market on Saturdays and at Logan Square on Sundays. For more information, visit karlscraftsoup.com
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 9
| NEW YEAR, NEW YOU |
| NEW YEAR, NEW YOU |
During the cold winter months, it can be easy to stay sedentary. Try these indoor activities to keep you moving. Ice skating: The McFetridge Sports Center, 3843 N. California Ave., offers indoor ice skating, tennis and yoga. Open skate costs $5 per person during select hours and tennis costs $25 per hour. Try a drop-in yoga class for $12. For more information, visit mcfetridgesportscenter.com Rock climbing: Go indoor rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders, 100 S. Morgan St. Try an Intro to Climbing class to learn the basics of climbing under the guidance of expert instructors. The 60-minute class takes place on both ropes and boulders and includes gear rental. $25 for members and $49 for non-members. For more information, visit brooklynboulders.com/gowanus/ Ping pong: Hone your ping pong skills at SPIN Chicago, 344 N. State St., in a fun and energizing social environment. Taking aim at that tiny white ball will get your heart pumping. $25 per hour during off-peak hours / $39 during peak hours. Stop by for $10 ping pong on Sundays from 5-8 p.m. For more information, visit wearespin.com/location/chicago/ Bumper cars: WhirlyBall, 1825 W. Webster Ave., offers fitness-forward and fun activities to get visitors moving. WhirlyBall is not only the name of the business, but also a game where players sit in souped-up bumper cars armed with a hand scoop and fling a wiffle ball around with friends. There’s also bowling, laser tag, pool tables and a climbing wall. Walk-ins are $15 for a 30-minute session with a four-player minimum. For more information, visit whirlyball.com Bowling: Pinstripes, 435 E. Illinois St., features bowling and bocce ball games in a social setting with game-side food and drink. Bowling is $8-18 per hour per person, depending on the hours. Shoes can be rented for $5. Bocce ball is $5-12 per person per hour. Reservations are recommended. For more information, visit pinstripes.com/ chicago-illinois/
N E W S
Air founder Shama Patel quit her career as a corporate attorney in Chicago to develop a unique workout opportunity for clients. Photo courtesy Air
Indoor golf: Play18 offers an ultimate indoor golf experience in a relaxed country club atmosphere. Play18 features PGA Tour simulators and personal driving bays along with a locker room, full bar and lounge. Reserve online. $50 per hour. For more information, visit play18chicago.com Air workout: AIR®, a boutique fitness lab, offers classes that incorporate aerial exercises on hammocks for a unique twist on the average fitness regimen. The 50-minute Air Foundation class fuses elements of conditioning, pilates, ballet and HIIT (high intensity interval training) on aerial hammocks. There are two locations to choose from: River North, 357 W. Erie St., and South Loop, 1317 S. Michigan Ave. $30 per class or $10 for community classes. For more information, visit airfitnow.com Basketball: Check out Swish House for basketball fitness classes that makes working out fun. The high intensity interval training classes provide a unique team-based environment that engages the competitive spirit. Classes are $25 and are held at The Mercy Home for Boys and Girls at 1140 W. Jackson Blvd. For more information, visit swishhouse.com Take a walk: Take a walk through the beautiful Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., or Lincoln Park Conservatory, 2391 N. Stockton Drive, to get your heart rate up while enjoying warm lush gardens and a brief respite from the cold. Free admission to both.
Tom Linden works out the day after Christmas at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness. Linden credits his trainer with motivating him. Photo by Jesse Wright
Route to self improvement runs through downtown Chicago By Jesse Wright Staff Writer It’s a New Year and with a new calendar come those annual thoughts of self-improvement. Self-improvement might include getting in better shape, or realizing the dream of running a half marathon—but whatever the goal, first comes the plan.
Join a gym (but try it out first) Matthew Modleski, personal training program director at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness in New Eastside, said a gym should fit right if it’s going to be used. “Find somewhere you feel comfortable, that has a good space-to-member ratio (not overcrowded) and that is convenient,” he said in an email. “Especially in Chicago in the winter time, convenience is going to be key.” Modleski said gyms offer variety, which can be important. “First, weight training is crucial to just about every goal,” he said. “It can improve posture, make you feel stronger, add lean muscle and
boost your metabolism, improve confidence, prevent or help osteoporosis, and just make you feel awesome.” “Second, there is the staff. You’re going to have a team of people helping you along the way. “Third, the social factor. One of the most common reasons people stop working out is because they don’t have friends who share their goals.”
Get a trainer Sharing goals is important because the gym can be intimidating. Tom Linden hit the weight room at Lakeshore on Stetson Avenue the day after Christmas. Linden is in shape and he is a regular, but he credited his dedication with a trainer. “I wouldn’t come if I didn’t have a trainer, to be honest,” Linden said. Thanks to his trainer—and to his own hard work—Linden said he has gotten noticable results. “It helps keep me fit,” he said. Bill Bishop, the head coach at Bishop Racing and CEO of The Everest Platform, has been training people in Chicago areas for years. He
trains people to run marathons, participate in Ironman triathlons and, with his software system and an easygoing—if also determined—vibe, Bishop helps people be the best they can be. He said the first step to self-improvement is making the decision to self improve. “The very first thing that any athlete or enthusiast or everyday person needs to do in order to start the process in order to get themselves in shape is to make the decision that they want to be in shape,” he said. Bishop encourages students to integrate healthy activity into their lifestyles, so they can have some fun and also feel—and look—better. “If you and your friends are going to the bar or having a huge meal, go run for an hour first,” he said. “Getting into shape doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, but by staying committed you are actually taking care of yourself first, and enjoying your life second.” To find out more about Bishop, look up his company on Facebook or call (312) 617-9590. For more information about Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, visit their website lakeshoresf.com or call (312) 856-1111.
Perhaps the most popular New Year’s resolution is to eat better. People resolve to make better choices, eat out less and pack nutritious lunches for work. But don’t make better health choices Leontina Richardson only to make poor social decisions. Think before you eat and consider these suggestions. Be careful when you bring food to your desk. Be mindful of the foods you bring. Chips and apples are rather noisy to eat. Foods with a strong scent also might annoy your colleagues. Consider avoiding smelly foods altogether. If you heat up seafood leftovers in the microwave, it’s going to make the whole area smell. Even people who enjoy seafood don’t want to smell like a market when they leave. You might want to pass on the tuna sandwich as well, unless you plan to brush your teeth after eating. At the end of the day, remember to take your food out of the refrigerator. It’s courteous to make space for your coworkers should they need to use the fridge. It’s understandable to forget once in a while, but don’t make a habit of it. Clean out the microwave if your spaghetti or soup splatters. Put a paper towel over your food while you warm it up to avoid splatters. If accidents happen, be sure to clean it up. Don't leave your food in the microwave. Don’t set the microwave for three minutes then go to your desk to finish working on an email. People are uncomfortable with removing someone’s food from the microwave, so don’t keep them waiting. Your coworkers need time to eat too. Clean up after yourself. Cleaning up should be natural. Wipe down the tables if you've left crumbs, wash your own dishes and don’t leave them in the sink. Don’t isolate yourself in the lunch area. Even if you don’t have energy for conversation, your presence at the table sends the message that you are a team player. Because you are eating, no one expects you to hold the floor, feel free to listen. Business etiquette is required even in the lunchroom. Be mindful of the needs of your colleagues. Kindness is the best New Year’s resolution of all. Leontina Richardson is the president of Stepping Into Etiquette, a consulting firm specializing on manners and style. For more information, visit the company website at steppingintoetiquette.com
10 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
| NEWS |
A Starbucks roastery could offer a better brew of retail on Mag Mile By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
On Michigan Avenue, the old cliché is true: the only constant is change. As online stores continue to hurt brick and mortar retailers, churn on Mag Mile is near constant. In December, the Chicago Architecture Center hosted an evening conversation with a panel of Chicago retail experts to discuss the continuing promise of the Magnificent Mile and how, even in a virtual world, creativity could save the day— and the bottom line—of brick and mortar stores. Much of the conversation centered on Starbucks’ plan to this year transform the old four-story Crate and Barrel store into a massive roastery—a high-end coffee space that is poised to be a cafe with major cache. It’s a gamble designers hope will pay off with a new type of store that’s as much an experience as it is a selling space. “Things change, nothing is permanent, and if something is genuinely out of place on this street it will get replaced,” explained David Stone, a landlord and tenant representative in the downtown area. Stone said the whole of the street reflects changing trends— and that’s a good thing, as it keeps the area relevant and vital.
One trend, Stone said, is windows. Over the last few decades, more retailers have transformed building facades with windows, giving the shopping district a more open, airy feel. One building that typifies this is the former Crate and Barrel outlet Starbucks will take over. After 27 years, the retailer shuttered its Michigan Avenue flagship store in January 2018. Still, whatever retail trends ended a home décor store haven’t touched the aesthetic appeal of the store’s face—a massive, bright and open facade featuring more windows than brick and mortar. Jay Longo, principal designer at the firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz, said the new roastery on Michigan Avenue will be as daring as a four-story, glass-paneled home decor store was in 1990. He expects it will keep the area relevant to a new generation of shoppers who are as prone to shop online as they are in any brick and mortar space. Longo pointed out that the Crate and Barrel store’s design on Michigan Avenue was unique in 1990, and that is still an asset. “It set a lot of trends that other buildings on Michigan Avenue have followed,” he said. He pointed out it’s not a virtual space; it is a space for people, and that means it’s a space for experiences. Longo said a roastery is a manufacturing facility as much as a café, and the combination is an experience shoppers can’t get any-
The former Crate and Barrel building will be transformed to house a massive Starbucks flagship store. Photo courtesy Starbucks
where else. “The idea that brick and mortar is more of an experience than simply retail is definitely what the roastery is all about,” he said. “Retailers are trying to build brand loyalty and that’s hard to do in cyberspace,” Stone said. “That’s the biggest attraction to brick and mortar.” Program moderator Cheryl Durst, executive vice-president and CEO of the International Interior Design Association, put it in simple terms. No matter the age and no matter the trends, humans want to be wowed. “Human beings need to be captivated,” she said.
Streeterville activism might make Chicago a little quieter in 2019 By Jesse Wright Staff Writer The New Year—and every year thereafter— should be a bit quieter for Chicago residents due to a noise ordinance that goes into effect Jan. 1. In August 2018, Gov. Bruce Rauner signed into law a noise ordinance allowing ambulance drivers to use their sirens only when necessary to warn pedestrians and drivers or in the case of medical emergencies. The law only applies to Illinois cities with populations greater than one million, so it applies in no other cities outside Chicago. Before the new law went into effect, ambulances drivers were required to use sirens on the way to and returning from calls regardless of traffic or pedestrians or whether it was a medical emergency. The law passed because of the efforts of Streeterville residents and Rep. Christian Mitchell (D-Chicago), who
An ambulance makes a stop in the New Eastside in December. Thanks to a new noise law, non-emergency work may allow ambulances to be a bit quieter. Photo by Jesse Wright
sponsored the bill. The representative said the law is a win for residents. “This bill is a critical measure addressing quality of life and safety for down-
town residents, where excessive siren noise can cause erratic driving patterns and permanent hearing loss,” Mitchell said in an email. “The new law allows first responders the discretion to turn off their sirens on occasions when the patient or situation has stabilized.” Residents, too, are excited. Debby Gershbein, president of the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents, said the law is the result of SOAR activism. While she praised Northwestern as a world-class medical institution and for a time the only level one trauma center in Chicago, she said the medical facility also led to a lot of noise. “The ambulance drivers were putting their sirens on even if it wasn’t an emergency and we decided we really had to do something about it,” she said. “We worked with the government and the fire department and SOAR did surveys with other neighborhoods and we found that the number one problem with noise for residents was sirens.”
Gershbein said the problem was near constant. “This is a quality of life issue where people were being interrupted 24 hours a day with the siren noise,” she said. “I think we’ve come to a good solution with the new law.” Gershbein praised Mitchell as well as neighborhood aldermen Brian Hopkins and Brendan Reilly for their support. She said noise is more than a nuisance and excessive noise can damage health.“There are physical impacts that occur when you’re exposed to loud sirens all the time. It wakes people up and disturbed sleep is a really big health problem,” she said. Gershbein said the SOAR group will continue to work for quality of life improvements, such as an ongoing greening effort, to improve the health of trees in the neighborhood. “In an urban environment it’s important to make sure we have as many trees as possible,” she said. For more information, visit the group at soarchicago.org.
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 11
| NEWS |
A group of visitors enjoys downtown Chicago despite the temperatures. Photo by Elizabeth Czapski
Winter tourism Continued from page 7
than someone who wants to plan a five or six-day trip. “Those types of people tend to go to the warm-weather destinations.” “In the Midwest, we kind of hunker down, so a trip to Chicago is a nice change of pace and a fun getaway in the winter rather than hibernating until spring,” Sweitzer said. Still, fewer people are staying at Chicago hotels in the winter. Grazetti said from January to mid-March, the Loews sees a 60 percent room occupancy rate, compared to a 90 percent average during the warmer months. That’s good news for winter travelers as fewer people in the hotels means generally cheaper rooms. Grazetti added, however, that occupancy is up, even in the winter time, compared with eight or nine years ago. Grazetti praised Choose Chicago, which has “done a really good job, particularly I'd say over the last five years or so, in really promoting Chicago as a winter destination, and we've definitely seen the impact of that,” he said. Besides discounts and cabin fever, there’s something else that brings people to Chicago in the winter: conventions. Grazetti called Chicago a “conference town.” “The hotel market in the city really kind of thrives on the convention business that is brought into McCormick place and some of the larger venues here,” he said. Grazetti said conventions bring in about 1.2 million people per year, with about 15
percent of those people during the winter months. Despite lower hotel prices, organizations tend to avoid booking conferences in colder months when bad weather could shut down an airport, he said. The American Student Dental Association took that risk and held its national leadership conference in Chicago in mid-November. Tatum Newbill, Matthew McLeod and Chantol Peterkin, dental students from Howard University in Washington, D.C. attended the conference. Peterkin said she had been to Chicago during the winter and wasn’t worried about the weather. “If you have the time now, why not?” she said. McLeod said the students discussed preparing for the weather the week before the conference. “I’m wearing layers right now,” he said. “I hear it’s nicer in the summer.” Bob and Gretchen Montgomery, along with four travel companions, made the trek to Chicago from Dallas and Denver and were taking photos in Millennium Park on a snowy November day. “We love Chicago,” Bob Montgomery said, adding the group had come to celebrate a birthday and an anniversary and to see Hamilton. The weather in Chicago, they said, wasn’t much different from the weather in their home cities. “Weather shouldn’t be a hindrance to going somewhere, to have fun,” Gretchen Montgomery said. To find out more about the Chicago Greeter program call (312) 945-4231 or visit www.chicagogreeter.com or the Choose Chicago website at choosechicago.com
Designer Michelle Kim teaches neighborhood kids the finer points of fashion at one of her design courses for kids. Photo by Angela Gagnon
Fashion design classes offer creative fun for kids By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer Children in downtown Chicago have an opportunity to channel their artistic, creative energy while learning from a fashion professional. New Eastside resident Michelle Kim, a fashion designer, has been offering design classes to kids since July 2018. Kim is the founder of Mizel Jewelry and holds a masters degree in fashion design from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Parents said the classes encourage kids to be creative and to develop ideas, while Kim said the classes inspire her too. “Teaching these classes is very inspirational for me because I am a designer myself, and the kids often think of things adults don’t, like a unique color combination or pattern,” Kim said. The classes, geared toward children as young as first grade, are held every other weekend in the New Eastside and typically follow a seasonal theme. Kim has introduced embroidery, fabric embellishment, collaging, beading, sewing and knitting since she began teaching the classes. Her students have worked on hair accessories, backpacks, shoes, jewelry, clothing and
lunch boxes and used various kid-friendly materials to create unique and personalized designs. This winter Kim will lead a class focused on cold weather items such as berets and sweatshirts. Students will work with material like faux fur and pom-poms along with fabric paints, felt, sequins and fake gems. New Eastside mom Elizabeth Johnston said her 6-year-old daughter, Dilly, has gone to seven or eight of the design classes and her daughter loves getting creative. “Dilly was so proud of her creations and Michelle was always so encouraging and complimented them on their designs.” Kim stresses that “perfect is not creative” and that the kids should “relax and have fun.” Once the drawing is complete, they embellish or decorate it with the materials to make their image come alive. Kim also puts together themed events for adults around holidays or special occasions. Plans are in the works for a Valentine’s Day “Moms’ Night Out” in which neighborhood moms can work with Kim to make something for their kids. For more information about themes and price, visit mizelkids.com.
12 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
| NEW EASTSIDE EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com
Jan. 2
Stroller Tour of the Museum of Contemporary Art Bring your young ones to this family-friendly tour at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Keep up to date with contemporary art with these guided tours designed for kids and their caregivers. Meet at the second floor admissions desk. On the first Wednesday of each month, 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m., free with museum admission, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org
December 2018 Races F^3 Lake Half Marathon 13.1 miles, 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 26, Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Drive. Aon’s Step Up for Kids stair climb, 8 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 27, Aon Center, 200 E. Randolph St.
Sommelier for a Day at III Forks Sip and swirl selections from Italy at III Forks’ monthly wine tasting, featuring a flight of six Italian wines—two white and four red—led by sommelier Anton Licko. 5–7 p.m., $25, III Forks Prime Steakhouse, 180 N. Field Blvd., (312) 938-4303, 3forks.com/chicago
set and enjoyable for the whole family, these programs engage children with a diverse range of artistic and educational presentations. The performance features Laura Doherty’s puppet friends Jazzasaurus, Muddy Puddles and Domingo the Flamingo. Also Jan. 18 (with host Duke Otherwise), 11–11:45 a.m., free, Chicago Cultural Center, Preston Bradley Hall, 78. E. Washington St., (312) 744-6630, cityofchicago.org
Jan. 3
Jan. 6
“Picture This” program at the Art Institute This program at the Art Institute of Chicago—designed especially for our youngest visitors and their caregivers—offers a chance for people of all ages to enjoy picture books that relate to works of art in the galleries. 11–11:30 a.m., free with museum admission, Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 443-3600, artic.edu
Jan. 4
The Happy Prince screening at the Gene Siskel Film Center Come to the Gene Siskel Film Center for a screening of The Happy Prince, a 2018 UK film that tells the story of the last three years in the life of the writer Oscar Wilde. Screenings continue until Jan. 10, $8 ($5 for members), Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., (312) 846-2800, siskelfilmcenter.org The Juicebox Series at the Chicago Cultural Center For music and dancing in a kid-friendly setting, drop by the Chicago Cultural Center for its recurring Juicebox Series performances. Geared toward the stroller
GlowFlow Yoga at the Lincoln Park Zoo As part of the Fitness at the Zoo program, this all-levels yoga class will be held under dim lighting in the Regenstein Small Mammal Reptile House. Glow sticks will be provided and neon clothing is encouraged! Advanced registration is required, spaces are limited and guests should bring their own mats and water bottles. Ages 16 and older. 9–10 a.m. (check-in starts at 8:30 a.m.), $25 ($20 for members),
Jan. 8
Shane Koyczan performs at City Winery Author, poet and spoken word artist Shane Koyczan speaks directly to the people in their own voice. He is partially responsible for the 2013 anti-bullying viral video “To This Day”— which has over 13 million views—and performed a customized version, called “For the Bullied and the Beautiful,” to acclaim at the 2013 International TED Conference in Long Beach, California. All ages. 8 p.m., $15–25, City Winery, 11 W. Riverwalk South, (312) 733-9463, citywinery.com
Author Samira Ahmedpresents Love, Hate & Other Filters, Jan. 8 at the American Writer’s Museum’s Readers Hall, 180 N. Michigan Ave. Courtesy the American Writers Museum
Author Samira Ahmed at American Writers Museum Author Samira Ahmed, presents Love, Hate & Other Filters, the story of an American-born 17-year-old girl Maya Aziz, torn between her family’s world of traditional Indian culture and her dream of attending a film school in New York City. Ahmed herself was born in Bombay, India, and grew up in a small town in Illinois. 6:30–8 p.m., $12 (standard RSVP), $6 (member guest), free (member), American Writer’s Museum’s Readers Hall, 180 N. Michigan Ave., americanwritersmuseum.org
Jan. 9
Business Networking Luncheon at Mid-America Club Are you looking to build a client base, network or simply further your career? This luncheon at the Mid-America Club facilitates all this with the added bonus of masterful food by Executive Chef Michael Pivoney. Space is limited. 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m., $15, Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph St. (80th floor), register by logging into your member portal or by calling (312) 861-1100 St. Nicholas performances at the Goodman Theatre This intimate thriller—a limited en-
gagement direct from London—features Olivier Award-winner Brendan Coyle (Downton Abbey, Mary Queen of Scots, Paths to Freedom). The performance tells the story of a theater critic who abandons his life in pursuit of a young actress, and whose desires lead him to strike a deal with a group of vampires. Screenings continue until Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m., $29–58, Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, (312) 443-3800, goodmantheatre.org Information Night at GEMS World Academy Chicago Meet the head of GEMS World Academy Chicago, other key administrators and select faculty members. Discover its expansive extracurricular options, including a Chicago Field Studies program. Learn more about the school, its approach to the International Baccalaureate program and its emphasis on global citizenship. Also Jan. 22 for GEMS Upper School, 6:30–7:30 p.m., free, GEMS World Academy Chicago, 350 E. South Water St., (312) 809-8900, register at gemsworldacademy-chicago.com
Jan. 10
Paint Night at Mid-America Club Members of the Mid-America Club are invited to a night of painting lead by club member and accomplished artist Carolyn Gelwicks. Enjoy wine and appetizers as
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 13
N E W S
| NEW EASTSIDE EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com you’re guided through painting a modern Chicago staple—the Bean. All skill levels are welcome. Non-members are welcome on the basis of available space. 6:00 p.m., $20, Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph St. (80th floor), (312) 861-1100 Lake Shore East Book Club Open to anyone in the Lake Shore East community, the LSE Book Club meets at The Tides. This month, discuss the Philip K. Dick classic Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? For February, the club will read Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman. Second Thursday of each month, 6–7:30 p.m., free, The Tides’ 16th floor Party Room, 360 E. South Water St., (312) 540-0400 CAPS Meeting (Beat 111–113) New Eastside residents are invited to meet with local beat police to discuss issues in the community. CAPS meet-
ings help establish a connection between police, business owners, community leaders and residents. 6:30 p.m., free, 400 E. Randolph St., (312) 321-0600 “La Boheme” Returns to the Civic Opera House The Chicago Lyric Opera presents a story about being young, in love, full of hope— and broke. The combination of these relatable themes and its cast of charming characters make “La Boheme” one of the most popular operas in the world. Performances continue until Jan. 31, 7 p.m., tickets start at $39, Civic Opera Building, 20 N. Wacker Drive, (312) 827-5600, lyricopera.org
Jan. 15
“Metropolis in Ascension” Discussion at Chicago Council on Global Affairs Home to the world’s first skyscraper, Chicago has secured its place as an urban design hub. Still, challenges remain,
including residential segregation. The Chicago Council on Global Affairs and Graham Foundation's Sarah Herda will host a discussion on Chicago’s architectural and urban design history and future. 12–1 p.m. (doors open at 11:45 a.m.), $10, Chicago Council on Global Affairs Conference Center, 130 E. Randolph Ave., (312) 726-3860, thechicagocouncil.org
Jan. 17
GEMS’ Academy Trans-disciplinary Fashion Show In this annual GEMS program, the sixth grade students of the academy’s Upper School present designs and garments that relate to specific genres of music, modeling them on a runway for the school community. Parents are welcome to attend. 11 a.m., free, GEMS World Academy Chicago, 350 E. South Water St., (312) 809-8900, gemsworldacademy-chicago.com
Jan. 18
Science Snoozeum Explore the Museum of Science and Industry at your own pace at this overnight event. Participate in special activities, make your own science toys and complete a scavenger hunt. After that, sleep nose-to-nose with a 727, next to a giant heart or steps away from a toy-making factory. Open to boys and girls aged 6–12 as well as families with children of the same age. Tickets include overnight admission, parking, a film in the Giant Dome Theater, activities, a Snoozeum patch and breakfast. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. 5:30 p.m.–8:30 a.m., $65, Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org
Jan. 19
The Beach Chicago at Navy Pier Escape the weather this winter with
It’s a new year — Is the time right for a second home? By Urban Real Estate Each year, we set out a list of resolutions and goals — things to achieve in the new year — but some goals are more important than others. One important goal is understanding what your real estate aims are and deciding where you want to go and how you want to get there. “The beginning of the new year is the ideal time to map out your short and long-term real estate dreams,” Urban Real Estate senior partner Michael Emery said. “Buying a second home is both rewarding and can generate revenue until you are ready to enjoy it. Think about recreational climates, cities where the opportunity of short-term rental services are welcome and where they make sense.” According to the National As-
A second home can offer both a vacation destination and a way to make money via short-term rentals. Photo courtesy Urban Real Estate
sociation of Realtors, 45 percent of investment buyers bought their investment property to generate income through renting the property. Of those surveyed, 24 percent of those with investment properties rented the property in
2017 as a short-term rental. Urban Real Estate agents work with clients and help them consider not only their investment buying options in Chicago but in other cities as well. Whether a buyer is considering cottages in
Michigan, homes on golf courses in Florida or a chalet in Vail, being able to set yourself up for making that dream a reality doesn’t need to seem out of reach. “We have a network of brokers across the country we work with to
help identify just what might work for you, and the lifestyle markers you hope to realize with its immediate purchase,” Emery said. Jumbo loan products paired with ways to generate income for the investor can make the dream of second-home ownership a more attainable reality. “Vacation rental services can help you cover many of the costs related to a turn-key or fixer-upper purchase in an attractive community which welcomes short-term rentals. The key is working with a trusted broker to help you identify property that is valuable and worth the investment if the home isn’t one you’ll be using often for yourself,” Emery said. Explore your second home dreams with the Urban Real Estate team of brokers. Contact us at (312) 528-9200 for your second-home or other real estate needs.
14 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
E A S T S IN D EE WN E A W SS T/ SS IT DR EE ENTEEWR SV I L L E
N E W S
www.neatside.com
| NEW EASTSIDE EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com this free art experience, created by New York- based designers Snarkitecture. The immersive art installation features a large, open room filled with more than a million antimicrobial and recyclable plastic balls. The experience also includes deck chairs, lifeguard chairs, umbrellas and signage mimicking the sensations of a day at the beach. Continues until Feb. 3, 11 a.m.–8 p.m., free, Navy Pier’s Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-5300, navypier.org
Jan. 21
Jan. 20
Jan. 23
Lunapalooza at the Adler Planetarium Taking center stage—Earth’s Moon. Celebrate Earth’s celestial companion by watching it dance with our home planet in a total lunar eclipse. Additionally, witness the Adler Planetarium’s newest sky show and sway to the universe’s rhythms. Free to observe from outside. 8 p.m.–12 a.m., $12 (adults), $8 (children 3–11), free (member), Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org
News Briefs Continued from Page 3 be paid now through March 1. The tax bill is 55 percent of the total prior year’s tax bill. To prepay, have the 14-number property index number ready. The number is on the most recent tax bill, near the amount due. Residents can also look up the number on cookcountytreasurer.com. To prepay, visit cookcountytreasurer. com and select the option to prepay the 2018 taxes. They can be paid by bank or via credit card. Taxpayers can also pay by mail. Print the bill and mail it and a payment to Cook County Treasurer at PO Box 805436, Chicago, Illinois, 60680-4115. Finally, taxpayers can also pay in person at a Chase bank branch or at the treasurer’s office, 118 N. Clark St., room 112.
Volunteer to help Chicagoans file taxes Tax season is around the corner and tax experts are being sought now to
Free Admission to the Museum of Natural History Illinois residents can enjoy the wonders of Chicago’s Museum of Natural History for free. Simply prove your Illinois residency and walk right in to General Admission exhibits like “Meteorites” “Inside Ancient Egypt” and “Plants of the World.” 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org Matt Wifler’s Bourbon Street Quartet performs at Winter’s Jazz Club See a remarkably talented jazz quartet play right here in New Eastside. This group of like-minded musicians share a love for New Orleans-style jazz and swinging clarinet melodies. Wifler, a clarinet and saxophone player, has roots in traditional jazz and plays with many big bands around Chicago. He has performed with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. 7:30
& 9:30 p.m., $15 (one-drink minimum per 75-minute set), Winter’s Jazz Club, 465 N. McClurg Court, (312) 344-1270, wintersjazzclub.com
Jan. 24
Teen Open Studio at the Chicago Architecture Center Meet in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio to get feedback and guidance on independent or competition projects. Design professionals and education staff will be on hand to provide project supplies and suggestions for design projects. Chicago Public School students who attend 10 or more Teen Open Studios during the Spring 2019 series may be eligible to receive a $150 stipend for their participation. Every Thursday during the school year, 5–7 p.m., free with RSVP, Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Dr., (312) 922-8687, architecture.org
Jan. 25
Pablo Sáinz Villegas performs in Millennium Park
Pablo Sáinz Villegas will be performing in Millennium park as part of the MIX at SIX series. Villegas has become a worldwide sensation known as one of this generation’s great guitarists. Not only does he carry on Spanish guitar traditions, but Villegas is also dedicated to modern music, premiering works by John Williams and Sergio Assad. His performances let loose the playfulness and drama of his homeland, Rioja, and its rich musical heritage. 6 p.m., $15, Harris Theater, Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph St., (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org
Jan. 26
International Puppet Theater Festival at Navy Pier This family-friendly festival features puppeteers from Italy and Puerto Rico. Shows include The Beginning of Nothing by Poncili Creación and Pulcinella by Gaspare Nasuto. All ages. 12 & 2 p.m., free, Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens, 700 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-7437, navypier.org
volunteer to help residents file their income taxes. Most of the work begins in February. For more information, visit the website economicprogress.org and click on the volunteer tab to see where you might volunteer and to see the jobs needed.
Hundreds gather at Navy Pier for Illinois bicentennial bash On Dec. 3, 2018, Gov. Bruce Rauner and Gov.-elect J.B. Pritzker joined dozens of famous Illinoisans to celebrate the state’s 200th birthday. The Navy Pier celebration was part of a series of celebrations in December honoring the state’s birth, but it was the only one featuring the governor and the governor-elect together on the actual date of the birth of the state. Pritzker, who will be sworn in on Jan. 14, said he wished the state another 200 years of success before turning the stage over to stars including Buddy Guy and Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon. The
Bill Swerski’s Super Fans, left, the popular Saturday Night Live sketch featuring a couple of Bears fans performed during the Illinois bicentennial celebration. Photos by Jesse Wright
evening was emceed by public radio legend Bill Kurtis and included a special appearance by Bill Swerski’s Super Fans, the popular Saturday Night Live sketch featuring a couple of Bears fans.
Buddy Guy made an appearance at the state's bicentennial event.
www.neatside.com
N E W
E A S T S I D E
N E W S / S T R E E T E R V I L L E
N E W S
JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018 / 15
| NEWS BREAK |
The small cost (and big reward) of wishing others well By Jon Cohn Community Contributor There he was, sitting on the cement at one of the nearby busy Chicago intersections. Jon Cohn He sat, sign in hand, in tattered clothes with a rough, unshaven look and the ever-present change cup front and center, looking for dona-
tions. I made eye contact with him, smiled and gave a little acknowledgment wave as I passed by. He gave me a little smile, waved back and said, “Have a nice day.” I kept walking and went about my daily business. This is a scenario I am sure many have experienced in an almost routine way as we move about the city. Later, it hit me. I started thinking, it was he who said to me, “Have a nice day.” I have a refrigerator full of food and enough money to go to a restaurant on occasion, yet he said to me, “Have a
Jumble
RONFEZ HOTER RALGGSERT SATAERIP
The more of these you take the more you leave behind. What are they?
nice day.” I have a warm shower to go to every morning and a sink to wash up in. He maybe does once in a while, but other nights, other days? Maybe not. Yet it was he who said to me, “Have a nice day.” I have a car to get around the city. He probably has to fight tooth and nail to get bus or train transportation. I can walk around the city in a decent pair of shoes. He has to walk all over and his footwear padding is far from ideal. I thought about that and it hit me a
little bit. Those folks out there on the streets? It’s a pretty tough go for them. Still, many are able to keep their spirits up enough to say to others, “Have a nice day.” It puts some of our own problems into perspective. We can’t possibly give money to every panhandler we walk by, but maybe we could at least acknowledge them with a eye contact, a little smile and little wave. Maybe we could even say to them, “Have a nice day!”.
Out and About in December
Send photos and captions to info@neweastsidecommunity.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.
The December answer is: Q: A SNOWMAN MIXED WITH A SHARK GETS YOU WHAT? A: FROST BITE A riddle for the season: What food do you get when you cross a snowman with a wolf? A brrrr-grrr
Submit jokes and quotes to info@ neweastsidecommunity.com The answer to the December “Where am I” is … The McClurg Court entrance of the American Furniture Mart building at 680 North Lake Shore Drive.
Debra, John and Haiden Pederson go for a skate the day after Christmas at the skating ribbon. Photos by Jesse Wright
Where am I?
Try to figure out where this structure is in the New Eastside. Submit your guess at info@ neweastsidecommunity.com Good luck!
Katie Hogue and Meg Dedyne supporting After School Matters.
Madeline Obrzut and Meghan Gov. Bruce Rauner with VFW Past Farrell of SOAR attend Gail State Commander William M. Wolff. Spreen's Christmas party.
16 / JANUARY OCTOBER 2019 2018
N E W
A SS T/ S T I D E A S T S I N D E WN EE W R EE ENTEEW R SV I L L E
N E W S
New Eastside
www.neatside.com
Video Tour Available
360 E Randolph Unit 2705-06 2 Beds 3 Baths - 2,375 Sq. Ft
$920,000 Combined units affording you 2300 sqft of living space and exquisite views facing north, east, west and south. Excellent use of space add functionality to design. Oversized kitchen and breakfast area looking out on to Maggie Daley park and south city skyline. Large living/dining room with views east of Navy Pier and north. Master bedroom boasts two closets, one larger walk-in and an expanded bathroom. Visit this home and enjoy its beauty and views for yourself.
Your Neighborhood’s Number One Brokerage*
Video Tour Available
Video Tour Available
$2,825,000
$2,750,000
340 E Randolph Unit 5403
450 E Waterside Unit 3001
$319,900
$298,500
155 N Harbor Unit 3105 1 Bd 1 Ba - 858 Sq. Ft
195 N Harbor Unit 207
$889,000
$1,670,000
$462,000
$374,000
$450,000
195 N Harbor Unit 603
225 N Columbus Unit 5905
225 N Columbus Unit 6009
400 E Randolph Unit 1523
400 E Randolph Unit 1015
3 Bd 3.1 Ba - 2,750 Sq. Ft
3 Bd 3.1 Ba - 3,272 Sq. Ft
1 Bd 1 Ba - 704 Sq. Ft
3 Bd 2.1 Ba - 1,600 Sq. Ft
3 Bd 3 Ba - 1,982 Sq. Ft
400 E Randolph Suite 500
|
1 Bd 1 Ba - 687 Sq. Ft
312.528.9200
|
1 Bd 1 Ba - 825 Sq. Ft
www.UrbanRealEstate.com
1 Bd 1Ba - 850 Sq. Ft
*Based on 2017 verified closed sales data from MRED.