VOL. 7 NO. 3
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March 2019
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GOING GREEN
How Chicago gets its color for St. Patrick’s Day
Traditional Mag Mile tulips inspire other cities Page 10
Tavern at the Park to close Page 3 Mystery highrise by CA Ventures to rise at Lake and Stetson? Page 3
Page 8 Besides the river and beer, now Chicago buildings are going green for St. Patrick’s Day. Photo courtesy Celtic Chicago
Must-know secret spots of New Eastside Page 12
Doorperson of the month: Joshua Harris
Man hits proposal out of the park
Steel beams crack along Lake Shore Drive
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How to Contact Us
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Editor: Elaine Hyde elaineh@neweastsidecommunity.com Staff Writers: Elizabeth Czapski Angela Gagnon Stephanie Racine Jesse Wright Copy Editors: 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. Published March 1, 2019 Copyright Š2019. All rights reserved.
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| NEWS |
Tavern at the Park to close in March By Jesse Wright Staff Writer After nearly 12 years as a New Eastside staple, the Tavern at the Park will close. Owners of the popular restaurant, at 130 E. Randolph St., completed the deal to sell to Sterling Bay in December. The restaurant is expected to close in March, though partner Peter de Castro said he’s not sure when the last day will be—they have to be off the property by March 29. “It’s kind of a moving target for the closing date. It depends on how much staff is left,” he said. “As soon as we decide we don’t have the staff to do things to our standards as we’ve always done them, we’ll make that decision and close it from there.” De Castro said he and the other partners hadn’t planned to sell but Sterling Bay, the group that owns Prudential Plaza, approached the partners and made an offer. De Castro had mixed emotions about closing up shop. “The decision was tough for staff because we had to give them 60-days notice,
NEWS BRIEFS New 311 app easier to use than phone system In December the city launched a 311 app—a phone application allowing users to more easily report small issues such as potholes and graffiti in their areas. The app is an upgrade to the previous system, launched in 1999, that depended on a telephone call and paperwork. Since the system launched, it’s garnered national attention, with Wired Magazine calling it “a huge win for public works.” Closer to home, the system is also receiving praise. Neighborhood leader Richard Ward said in
After nearly 12 years, Tavern at the Park will close this month. Photo by Jesse Wright
and so you want to make sure you take care of them,” he said. But on the financial side, it was an easy choice. “A 12-year-run is a long run for a restau-
February that the new system is helpful, easy to use and provides added benefits to New Eastside residents. “The home page of the website has an overview of the program and nine broad categories of service request areas such as seniors, health animals,” he wrote in an email. There are almost 100 specific issue topics that can be chosen, such as graffiti, lights out and potholes. Ward said the New Eastside is nearly graffiti-free because of eagle-eyed residents calling the previous system. Now, residents can save time and use the new app to report graffiti or other maintenance issues. To find out more about the app or download, visit 311. chicago.gov.
rant. At that point you have to talk about major remodeling anyway to stay fresh, and that shuts you down,” he said. The news was especially tough on some
Ad seems to indicate a new residential building is coming A magazine advertisement by CA Ventures could indicate a new, large residential building is coming to the New Eastside. In January, Real Estate Alert, a real estate trade magazine, ran an ad from developers CA Ventures featuring a large building at Lake and Stetson. The 40,600-squarefoot lot was supposed to be the home of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and luxury condominiums before the plan failed two years ago. However, CA Ventures won’t say what the ad means and whether they will develop the property. “We don’t have anything to
longtime customers. Robert Ogonovich said he’s been visiting the restaurant for years—practically since it opened—when he visits his daughter, who works downtown. “I always pop in for a drink when it’s convenient,” he explained. This month he will have to look elsewhere, and he said he is open to exploring the neighborhood. “I’ll just have to find another place close to here,” Ogonovich said. “I’ll have to survey the neighborhood.” Looking ahead, de Castro said he doesn’t know what he will do next. He has owned restaurants since 1987, but he said the industry is tough right now. A low unemployment rate is driving up wages for staff, and the city’s minimum wage is scheduled to increase to $13 an hour this July. “I don’t know what will happen next,” he said. “There aren’t plans to do anything yet, but that could change tomorrow. I think we’re going to take a log off the fire and sit back.” Sterling Bay did not return calls for comment.
share at this time,” said Mimi Simon, a spokesperson for CA Ventures with Taylor Johnson Public Relations. The ad includes other existing properties developed by CA Ventures around the country.
Hotel Essex to be rebranded The Hotel Essex at 800 S. Michigan Ave., formerly Essex Inn, will undergo rebranding with an expected April opening. Oxford Hotels and Resorts are partnering with Quadrum Global on the $75 million renovation. “The Essex Inn has been a prominent fixture on Michigan Avenue since 1961, providing accommodations to travelers
from around the world along the Chicago Cultural Mile,” John W. Rutledge, founder, president, and CEO of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, said in a news release. “We’re excited to transform the building into the luxury lifestyle Hotel Essex, bringing Oxford’s attention to detail and high-touch guest experience to the historic building.” The group plans to keep many of the familiar features at the landmark hotel, including the exterior architecture and the rooftop Essex Inn sign, though they will be restored. The majority of the updates will be inside the building. The Hotel Essex’s redevelopment includes the addition of 20 guestrooms for a total of 274 king and double rooms. The Turn to News Briefs, Page 4
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| NEWS | NEWS BRIEFS Continued from page 3 rooms will also be outfitted with modern necessities such as wireless charging, wireless casting from personal devices to televisions and Bluetooth-enabled speakers built into the custom vanity mirrors that span the length of the bathrooms.
Sweetwater to be open in time for St. Patrick’s Day Sweetwater Tavern and Grill, 225 N. Michigan Ave., a popular local eatery, will be open in time for March Madness and St. Patrick’s Day, according to the restaurant’s website. The bar and grill has been closed since Dec. 23 for extensive renovations. “It’s exciting to be able to take what we have learned from our
more than 15 restaurants over the years and apply it to one of our most successful restaurants on Michigan Avenue,” Angela Zoiss, Vice President of Marketing for Bottleneck Management, said in a press release. “Sweetwater’s renovation will breathe new life into the space and kick off our 10th anniversary as a Chicago hot spot with a fresh new look.” Bottleneck Management has added an additional 10 years to Sweetwater’s lease, for a total of 15 years in the dynamic space in the heart of Michigan Avenue.
New Eastsiders can now shop at a brick-and-mortar Amazon Go store In February Amazon opened a brick-and-mortar store Amazon Go at 111 E. Wacker. The New Eastside location is Chicago’s fourth automated Ama-
zon Go check out store. Besides not having cashiers, the store is cashless, too, and customers pay by scanning items with their cellphones via an app. There are no lines and the store offers a variety of food and snack items.
Local news drives newspaper readership, study finds A large study by Medill’s Local News Initiative discovered in February that local news still matters to readers and it may save newspapers. The study analyzed subscriber data from three metropolitan news websites in an attempt to see what content most attracted readers. The intention was to provide newspapers with a guide to improving community service and to shore up financial sustainability as the media landscape changes.
Local news is still popular among readers, beating out viral stories when it comes to attracting readers. Photo by Elaine Hyde
The study showed that rather than viral stories, readers want quality local content. “This research illustrates a sea change in the relationship between local news organizations and their readers,” Tim Franklin said in a news release. Franklin, a senior associate dean at Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Commu-
nications, heads the Medill Local News Initiative, a project that includes this study and other research to help local journalism overcome the industry’s loss of readers and revenue. Medill partnered with three news organizations—the Chicago Tribune, The Indianapolis Star and the San Francisco Chronicle—that provided 13 terabytes of anonymous reader data for the study.
LEARNING LOCALLY, THINKING GLOBALLY Our international curriculum, innovative use of technology and commitment to mobile learning inspire young people to transform the world. We prepare the global leaders of tomorrow.
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| COMMUNITY CORNER |
Doorperson of the Month Joshua Harris, doorman at Aqua, Lakeshore East By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Joshua Harris has worked at the Aqua residences in Lakeshore East for 10 years, starting his job just a year after the building opened. Harris said he got in because a friend, one of the building’s first employees, thought Harris would be a good fit at the 225 N. Columbus Dr. residence. So far, so good. He said that he’s enjoyed the last decade. “It’s like a vacation coming to work. And actually, the time has flown by. Someone asked me the other day how long have I worked here, and I said seven or eight years, and my partner said, ‘It’s been 10 years,’” Harris said. The building is a mixeduse facility with rental apartments, condos and a hotel sharing the space, so Harris interacts with all kinds of people—office workers, residents and visitors looking for the front desk at the Radisson Blu hotel, which is next door. Harris said the residents are mostly families and older folks, so there isn’t too much chaos but he said that wasn’t always the case. “It used to be a really big crowd that would go out on the weekend,” Harris said. “When the building first opened, it was a lot of college kids and everybody went out
Pet Month of the
Joshua Harris is the doorperson at the Aqua building. Photo by Jesse Wright
and partied, but the building changed, and it’s an older crowd and everybody slowed down.” Besides his work as a doorperson, he operates an extermination company with his father. “My father, he’s been in the extermination business for 30 years,” Harris said. “And he’s moving on, and so I’m taking over. [Being a doorperson] is only eight hours, and there are 24 hours in the day.” Which isn’t to say Harris doesn’t have a fun
side. He enjoys photography and golf, when he can find the time. Harris’ favorite golf tip? “Rule number one, keep your head down and let the club do the work,” he said. To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com with the door person’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.
The March pet of the month is Kitty, owned by Tira Rakvit. Rakvit says that Kitty is so smart and likes to act like a dog. He always comes when called and he likes to beg for food when he sees people eating. He really likes to be next to people and likes to get his belly rubbed. “Every time I sit on the couch, he would jump and sit on my lap,” writes Rakvit. “Kitty likes to steal the dog’s food and my dogs like to steal Kitty’s food.”
The New Eastside News’ March pet of the month is sponsored by East Side Veterinary Clinic, a local full-service clinic, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY EAST SIDE VETERINARY CLINIC
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Ida B. Wells honored with downtown street name By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Civil rights activist Ida B. Wells was honored Feb. 11 when city and state officials unveiled new street signs for Ida B. Wells Drive. The 1.2-mile downtown street was formerly known as Congress Parkway. Aldermen Sophia King (Fourth Ward) and Brendan Reilly (42nd Ward) co-sponsored the ordinance to rename the street in July 2018. This is the first downtown street named after an African-American woman. “She was an original boss,” King said. “She spoke truth to power and … changed the landscape of Chicago and the world.” Wells was born into slavery in 1862 in Mississippi, but it was her pioneering work as a Memphis publisher and journalist that first gained her widespread attention. In 1891 Wells, who was also a public school teacher, began reporting on unequal conditions in black schools. Those stories got
Mayor Rahm Emanuel (left) stands next to Michelle Duster, Ida B. Well’s great granddaughter, and Adlerman Sophia King at the sign unveiling in Feburary. Photo by Jesse Wright
her fired from teaching. A year later, she began work on a series of articles about lynching. The series enraged white Memphians, who burned Wells’ offices and destroyed her printing press, forcing her to flee the South, though the series received national distribution in black newspapers. Eventually, she settled in Chicago and continued civil rights work until her death in 1931. Alderman Reilly said this honor is “long overdue.”
“I believe it is wrong that until this day no street in downtown Chicago has ever been named for an African-American woman,” he said. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton also praised Wells’ legacy. Emanuel said he hopes the street inspires people. “This is more than a street sign. It’s a sign of her service. It is a sign of her strength and a sign of her selflessness,” he said. Keynote speaker Chaz Ebert said public memorials to people of color are import-
ant, especially for children of color. “As a little girl I used to wonder, did we really matter? As a little girl I had never seen a black fireman or a black nun,” she said. “And I would wonder, did we matter?” Michelle Duster, a great-granddaughter of Wells, said she hopes the street is an inspiration. “Ida B. Wells Drive will remind everyone, no matter where they start in life, that it is possible to make their voice heard,” Duster said.
Hindu celebration Holi—festival of colors, love—set for Navy Pier By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer Holi is coming to downtown Chicago. Holi is a Hindu celebration that runs March 20-21. Navy Pier is hosting a free Holi festival on March 23, from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Aon Grand Ballroom. The celebration is known as the festival of colors and the festival of love. It is a celebration of letting go of resentments, while playfully dousing others in colored powder or water. Holi begins with the lighting of a bonfire, meant to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, according to the official Holi Festival website. A number of legends are attached to the festival. The legend that is said to have led to the celebration of
Holi, known as the festival of colors, involves colored powders based on a Hindu legend. Photo courtesy of Navy Pier
colors involves the Hindi god Krishna becoming jealous of his soulmate Radha’s light complexion, according to the Holi site. Krishna complained to his mother, who
told him to color Radha’s skin any color he wished. He did so, and the mischievous act turned into a celebration and a symbol of love between partners. “Lovers long to apply color on their beloved’s face and express their affection for each other,” the Holi site said. Navy Pier’s celebration will feature musicians Red Baraat and Funkadesi. There will also be dance performances from groups including Peirce Elementary School and Mandala Arts. Bombay Wraps will sell food and colored powders will be available to be thrown outside in the Miller Lite Beer Garden, as supplies last, until 4 p.m. Visitors may not throw powder inside. To learn more about the Holi celebration at Navy Pier, visit navypier.org/event. To learn more about Holi, visit holifestival.org.
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| FEATURES |
Bob Lempa and his fiancee Peggy Baker pose high above Lempa’s Maggie Daley Park marriage proposal, written in the snow. Photo courtesy Peggy Baker
A Maggie Daley marriage proposal heard ’round the world By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Bob Lempa wanted to do something big for Peggy Baker, his longtime girlfriend. They’d been dating for years and he knew she was special and he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. It was just a matter of finding the right time and place to ask her to marry him. So, one snowy morning, armed with twine, some stakes and a snow shovel, he went to work in Maggie Daley Park, first marking out the letters and then shoveling. Six hours later, the words “marry me” were written across the snowy canvas of Maggie Daley Park. “I had no idea whether security would kick me out when I started doing this,” Baker said. “But they were supportive. I wasn’t writing something negative, it wasn’t something political and it wasn’t a commercial.” It was painstaking, Baker said. But it worked. After he wrapped up, Lempa called Baker. It was a day after Valentine’s Day and he had told her she’d be getting a card. “At four he called and said, ‘Did you get my card yet?’ and I said, ‘no’ and then he said ‘look out your window,’” said Baker. “I knew it was for me and I saw the message
and my co-workers overheard and they started congratulating me and giving me hugs. They clapped and cheered. I met Bob at the park and the park district people were there and I got to say yes officially when I went down there.” Lempa caught more than Baker’s attention though. Since the public proposal caught the attention of downtown, Lempa said he’s seen his name pop up in stories around the world. “I wasn’t doing it for the publicity, although I thought I might get some,” Lempa said. “But it is all across the States and it hit Mexico, Spain and New Delhi.” Baker said she’s thrilled to be part of a good news story. Prior to the engagement, Baker had been thinking about a fun vacation as a way to shake up her winter. “I was thinking a week ago, I need to plan a vacation or something exciting,” she said. “Who knew how the week would go? So many people are reaching out and this got so much attention. It is amazing. I was on TV this week! So many people are talking about it.” Lempa said he certainly doesn’t mind. “I was looking to hit a homerun and I hit a grand slam,” he said. The couple hasn’t set a date for the wedding yet, but Lempa said they’re thinking about sometime over the summer.
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8 / MARCH 2019
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A look behind the dye
By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Green river. Green beer. Green buildings. Is Chicago the greenest city in the world? For the seventh year in a row, the nonprofit group ShamROCK Chicago says, yes. ShamROCK Chicago is the nonprofit that works with downtown buildings to go green—to light up at night in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Blair Ciecko, director of branding and communications for the group, said the project is a fun way to promote Irish culture. The tradition of greening landmarks comes from Tourism Ireland, the marketing body responsible for marketing
Ireland overseas, and dates back 10 years. Chicago joins cities worldwide, including London and Sydney, who also participate in the greening initiative. Ciecko said the Chicago project is also a bit of competition with Boston—a city famous for its Irish roots. This year’s greening kicks off March 11 with an event at a Chicago Blackhawks game. “Prior to the game, in the atrium, we’re going to flip a big switch to turn the building green,” Ciecko said. She said building owners are receptive to the celebration and the greening has grown since it started. This year, Ciecko said residents can expect nearly a dozen buildings to go green, including
Willis Tower, Soldier Field and the Broadway in Chicago playhouses. Last year Navy Pier joined in and the iconic Ferris wheel lit its spokes in green light. Ciecko added she hopes the lights get people in the spirit of the season, because even without Irish heritage, there’s a reason to celebrate. “There’s no political aspect or donation aspect,” she said. “It’s a good way to let everyone know it’s St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago.” “Take some selfies and post them on our Facebook page,” she said. “Or tweet them at us.” The greening will run from March 11 to 17. To find out more about the group, visit shamrockchicago2019.com.
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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like a real Dubliner By Jesse Wright Staff Writer While St. Patrick’s Day may be confused for a day of excessive drinking, green beer and general rowdiness in America, Ireland’s national day is celebrated a bit differently in the homeland. Justin Dolan, vice-consul at the Irish consulate in Chicago, said in Ireland, the holiday honoring the country’s patron saint is a day for family, food and, for some, a church service. While some Irish may drink on St. Patrick’s Day, green beer is only for tourists. “There’s partly a religious sense to it and it’s our national day as well,” Dolan said. “So some people might go to church or Mass, and some people might have an Irish fry for breakfast.” An Irish fry could include bacon, sausages and eggs; it is not a light breakfast and not the sort of thing people eat every day. “It might be the one day they allow it,” Dolan said. Dolan said larger Irish cities have a noontime parade, and the rivers stay free of dye—as does the beer. “We don’t dye our river,” Dolan said. “And green beer is something I’ve never seen in Ireland. It might be some of the bars that expect
By Jesse Wright Staff Writer
Buildings go green to show St. Pat’s Day pride
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| ST. PATRICK’S DAY |
| ST. PATRICK’S DAY |
Besides the river and beer, now Chicago buildings, including the Wrigley Building (clockwise from left), Old St Patrick's Church and Soldier Field, are going green for St. Patrick's Day. Photo courtesy Celtic Chicago
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Dyeing the Chicago River green is a downtown tradition that spans decades. Plumbers with the Plumbers Local 130 union began using dye for spotting water leaks and river pollution in 1962, after Mayor Richard M. Daley sought attractions to draw crowds downtown and to the river—which at the time wasn’t developed. Pat McCarthy, a recording secretary with the Plumbers Local 130 union and the boat coordinator, said volunteers still prepare the dye and sift it by hand into the water. “We use about 50 pounds of dye,” he said. “It’s a powder and it starts off [as] an orange color. We sprinkle that into a quarter-mile stretch of the river.” The group dyes the same stretch of the river every year—the section separating Streeterville and the New Eastside starting at either Wabash or State Street and following Wacker to the lake. The exact portions of the river that will be dyed are announced closer to the day. The dye—whose exact formula remains a mystery—is harmless to fish and other living organisms in the river, and McCarthy said it only lasts a day or a day and a half. It’s a messy job that leaves volunteers covered in color. “There’s a lot of cleanup on the boats afterward,” he said. McCarthy works to coordinate the St. Patrick’s Day parade in addition to his river duties. It’s a busy, dirty and long day for him, but he doesn’t mind. McCarthy said he’s proud to be involved in the events because he’s a first-generation American. His parents emigrated from Ireland, so being involved with an Irish holiday in the city that adopted his family is a special experience for him.
a lot of American visitors offer it. But you might drink a pint of Guinness. It’s not a day for heavy drinking but it does happen.” While the color green is part of the holiday, Dolan said it’s not ever-present on the holiday the way it is in the United States. “In Ireland, yes, people will wear a bit of green but the most important thing is they wear a sprig of shamrock—a live shamrock they pick from their garden—and they wear it on their lapel,” he said. At its heart, the holiday is about celebrating everyday Irish culture, including food and family. “It’s got a family focus for sure,” Dolan said. “People in Ireland tend to eat things like bacon and cabbage; that’s the Irish sister of corned beef and cabbage.” Other popular Irish dishes include kale and potatoes, soda bread and a fish pie, roast beef or an Irish stew. “There’s no one food [for St. Patrick’s Day],” Dolan said. “It’s a day for eating the best of Irish ingredients. So you might have a beef and Guinness stew with a pint of Guinness. It’s a day for good Irish food.” Dolan said many Irish bars in Chicago will have some sort of Irish food on the menu for St. Patrick’s Day but the culinary curious can also have a look at the Irish Food Board’s website at bordbia.ie for ideas and recipes.
Braised beef in Irish stout Courtesy Bord Bia To get in the Irish spirit, here is an authentic St. Patrick’s Day staple. Sláinte! Serves 4-6
Volunteers green the Chicago River in an annual St. Patrick’s Day tradition. Photo courtesy Amy Ulivieri
INGREDIENTS 1kg shoulder beef, cut into thin slices 1 tablespoon olive or rapeseed oil 1 onion, chopped 2 leeks, 2 carrots, 2 celery sticks, chopped 2 cloves garlic 250 ml well reduced beef stock 125 ml stout Salt and black pepper
50 g butter 75 g streaky bacon, diced 100 g wild mushrooms, sliced 50 g small onions, peeled 25 g flour TO COOK Heat the oil in a large pan, brown the meat well. Remove to a pot. Next sauté half an onion, leeks, carrots and celery. Add to the meat along with the garlic. Pour in the stock and stout, season. Simmer gently for approximately 1½ hours. Remove the meat from the pot. Strain the liquid. Discard the vegetables. Place the meat back in a clean pot, plus the liquid. Sauté the bacon, mushrooms and re-
Braised beef in Irish stout is a St. Patrick’s Day staple. Photo courtesy Bord Bia
maining onion in 25g of butter. Add to the pot. Reheat the lot. Blend the flour with remaining butter. Stir it into the sauce, stirring well. Taste for seasoning. SERVING SUGGESTIONS Serve in a deep dish with buttery mash. For more information visit bordbia.ie
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| FEATURES |
Chicago Department of Transportation plant tulips in the fall of 2018 in preparation for spring. Photos courtesy CDOT
Tough and hearty, the tradition of tulips along Michigan Avenue celebrates the city’s spirit, history By Jesse Wright Staff Writer All along Michigan Avenue, flower boxes sit, topped with a layer of pine boughs and inches of snow, ice and street salt. They are as gray as winter skies. But, buried within the boxes are bulbs— thousands of tulips and hyacinth bulbs—ready to erupt into a riot of color just as soon as the mercury allows. The seasonal routine began in the early 1990s, an initiative of Mayor Richard M. Daley and business leaders on Michigan Avenue as a way to spruce up the busy thoroughfare. In the decades since, the flowers have become nothing short of a national phenomenon. In 2016, the American Society of Landscape Architects awarded the city and the Michigan Avenue Streetscape Association its Landmark Award for 20 years of Magnificent Mile blooms. Chicago Department of Transportation spokesperson Mike Claffey said the flowers
have found fans in cities far and wide. CDOT is now in charge of the planting program. “Many cities have reached out to CDOT for background on how to launch a similar planting program—including New York City and San Francisco,” Claffey said in an email. “When Gavin Newsom (now governor of California) was mayor of San Francisco, he asked for and was given a tour of Chicago’s tulips on Michigan Avenue and he asked a number of detailed questions about the program.” Maintaining the 2.3 miles of Michigan Avenue included in the program is a big job. Claffey said each November the city plants 110,000 bulbs on Michigan Avenue from Roosevelt Road to Oak Street and the southern section where the planters are bigger, from Roosevelt to the river, includes 78,000 grape hyacinth. Over eight days in November, a 10-person crew of A Safe Haven workers plant the bulbs. A Safe Haven Foundation employs at-risk youth, veterans and people recovering from substance abuse. This year’s tulip varieties
are show winner, margarita, orange emperor, double negrita, apricot impression and pretty princess. Later, the beds are covered with pine boughs to protect the bulbs from extreme cold. The flowers must be chosen carefully, as not too much can survive Chicago’s winters which can be downright arctic, even without polar vortices. But, Claffey said, when the bulbs bloom, usually in early April, it’s a treat for Chicagoans. “They represent the spirit of Chicago,” Claffey said, adding that the city’s motto is urbs in horto, Latin for city in a garden. “It’s a way to celebrate another winter is over in Chicago and the toughness of the city,” he said. By May, however, it is over and the city replants the planters with summer selections. But the bulbs live on. “They’re transported to the Garfield Park Conservatory where each year the public is invited to pick up a bag of tulip bulbs in late May for the low, low price of zero dollars,” Claffey said.
Each year the city plants 110,000 bulbs in flower boxes along Michigan Avenue.
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| FEATURES |
Area businesses help Girl Scouts sell cookies By Angela Gagnon Staff Writer
Repairs are being done on steel beams that cracked earlier this year on Lake Shore Drive. Photo courtesy of The Office of Alderman Brian Hopkins
North Lake Shore Drive re-opens with temporary fix By Jesse Wright Staff Writer Work continues on steel beams that cracked earlier this year on Lake Shore Drive. The trouble began the morning of Feb. 11 when Chicago Department of Transportation employees noticed two cracked girders on Lake Shore Drive and another cracked girder on a ramp from Wacker to South Lake Shore Drive. The northbound Lake Shore Drive lane was closed off as CDOT employees erected temporary fixes. Despite assurances of the road’s structural safety, some local residents said the cracked beams gave them pause. “Yes, definitely I was concerned,” New Eastside resident Jim Kurek said. “I walk the
CDOT Commissioner Rebekah Scheinfeld speaks at a press conference about the broken beams. Photo by Jesse Wright
dog underneath the road every day.” Kurek said until the temporary fixes were installed, he didn’t walk under Lake Shore Drive. CDOT spokesperson Susan Hofer said more permanent repairs will continue through early March. She said the extreme winter weather in January could
be responsible for the cracked beams. At a news conference Feb. 12, CDOT Commissioner Rebekah Scheinfeld said all the broken beams were bolstered with four temporary shoring towers. “This will allow us to make repairs,” she explained. “We expect permanent repairs will
be done over the next several weeks.” The shoring towers can each withstand 300,000 pounds of pressure. The total cost of the temporary and permanent fix isn’t known. Hofer added that CDOT is still not sure what exactly led to the cracks, though the polar vortex might have been a factor. “We think the extreme temp variations might be part of the problem,” she said. “We're still working on determining the causes.” CDOT engineers continue to inspect other girders throughout the road system for cracks. The system was built in 1986 and, according to CDOT, officials last inspected the beams in 2017. The next scheduled inspection would be in June.
Girl Scouts are busy selling their famous cookies all over downtown Chicago while partnering with businesses that provide warm spaces where scouts can sell extra boxes through the end of March. Troop 20461, from South Loop Elementary, recently sold cookies at Pinstripes in Streeterville on a blustery Saturday morning. Troop co-leader Angelica Prado helped set up, and fourth grade troop members Mia Prado and Katie Boone sold to Pinstripes customers. “My favorite part of selling Girl Scout cookies is asking people to buy our cookies,” Mia said. “Even if they say no, they know who we are and they can tell more people about the cookies.” “I like selling Girl Scout cookies because it teaches me to set a goal and try to complete that goal,” Katie added. “The girls decide on a cookie goal and work to reach that goal,” Katie’s mom and troop co-leader Aimee Boone said. Troop 20461 set their goal for each girl to sell 100 boxes of cookies. At the end of cookie season, the troop can decide what to do with their share of the profits, which is about 90 cents per box. A portion goes to a charitable donation of the troop’s choice. Troop 20461 will be donating to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls this year. They also vote on something fun to do as a troop, as a reward for all the hard work they do during cookie sales. Girl Scouts will set up booths at select locations until the end of March. Troop 20461 will be back at Pinstripes, 435 E Illinois St., March 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On March 2, they will be selling cookies at Sod Room, 1454 S. Michigan Ave., from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. “Inviting them to sell at Sod Room helps shift the ownership back to the child,” Sod Room owner Cynthia Valenciana said. “That’s hard in today’s climate, and there’s so much power in that.” For a list of cookie booth locations, dates and times, visit the Girl Scouts’ website, girlscouts.org, and use the “cookie finder” to locate nearby booths.
Troop 20461 Co-Leader Angelica Prado and Girl Scouts Mia Prado and Katie Boone sell cookies at Pinstripes in Streeterville. Photo by Angela Gagnon
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| NEWS |
New Eastside residents concerned about pedestrian safety By Jesse Wright Staff Writer At the monthly CAPS meeting, residents of the New Eastside expressed concerns over pedestrian safety on Michigan Avenue crosswalks after a woman was reportedly felled by a bicyclist. The resident who brought up the issue asked officer Necole Bryson during the Feb. 14 meeting, held at 130 N. Garland Court, if there is anything police can do to punish unsafe bicyclists. Bryson said the police will go after bicyclists, but they need a good description of the rider. “If someone can call 911 and give a good
description, there is a chance someone could do something,” she said. Residents claimed motorists aren’t safe when they turn onto Michigan Avenue. One resident said it could be that motorists don’t understand when to turn. “Some of the signs to motorists are too small and people ignore them,” she said. In particular, Adams and Washington are problematic for pedestrians because cars ignore turning regulations. Bryson told the audience that quality of life issues are important to officers and while the area does not have much violent crime, officers do work to make the area safe and more enjoyable for residents. To that end, Bryson said officers are
working to ensure safety along the Red and Blue subway lines after residents expressed concerns. “I personally have worked it on my days off. The deployment has increased. It’s a focal point, especially the Red Line,” she said. “But yes, we are working with everyone.” One resident claimed that she encountered some passengers on the Blue Line who were under the influence of drugs or intoxicated. She said their agressive behavior made her feel like they could attack her. Bryson said it’s important for commuters to be aware of their surroundings and to stay off their phones. If people are acting odd or threatening anyone, commuters
can call 911 or can contact CTA officials who are present, she said. “If you see something that doesn’t feel right, say something,” Bryson said. Some residents complained of unsanitary conditions in the pedway and wanted to know who is responsible. Bryson said the city maintains anything that isn’t beneath a building, but when the pedway is under a business, then the business must maintain it. A woman said the area below Macy’s is particularly unsightly. “It’s not just dirty, it’s filthy,” she said. “I mean, if Macy’s owns this, they need to belly up to the bar and clean it up.” The next CAPS meeting will be March 14 at 400 E. Randolph St.
Hidden New Eastside spots you need to know Kathy Kelly of Swim with Kathy Chicago, teaches students in the Radisson Blu Hotel pool. The British Swim School holds lessons at 175 N. Harbor Drive. Both offer small group and private classes. For more information, visit britishswimschool. com or swkchicago.com
By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer BOCKWINKEL’S While Mariano’s might dominate the grocery scene of New Eastside, the area is actually home to three grocery stores. The Bockwinkel’s at the corner of Stetson and South Water streets is a favorite of many residents and office workers. The grocery chain has another location in the lower level of 155 N. Harbor Drive. You don’t need to be a resident to shop at this location. It’s accessible to the public and ultra-convenient. NEED TO MAIL SOMETHING? Descend to into the Pedway and visit the post office in the lower level of the Aon Center or ship via UPS in Swissotel or FedEx in One Pru. GET SAME-DAY PASSPORTS Fancy packing up and flying overseas tomorrow? Don’t let
Cut through the Aon Center courtyard from Columbus Drive to Stetson Avenue to avoid winds on Randolph street. Photo by Stephanie Racine
an expired passport slow you down. In New Eastside, you can get expedited passport services at Sameday Passport and Visa
located at 180 N. Stetson Ave. SWIM SCHOOLS Learning to swim in New
Eastside is easy with swim schools operated out of some highrise pools. Local instructors, like Olympic qualifier
SHORTCUTS New Eastside is full of quick and simple shortcuts. To skip the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue while traveling to Grant Park, take the stairs, located along Randolph, down to Columbus heading south. Try walking south via Columbus to get to the northern edge of Grant Park and Monroe Street. If the wind tunnel of Randolph is too much walking to Michigan Avenue, try cutting through the Aon Center courtyard between Stetson and Columbus—the buildings block the breeze.
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| 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.
March 1-22
La traviata at the Lyric Giuseppe Verdi’s opera La traviata follows a young Parisian woman broken by true love, waiting in hope for her lover to return to her. Sung in Italian with projected English translations. Showtimes vary, tickets from $39, Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr., 312-827-5600, lyricopera.org
March 1-10
One Earth Film Festival This festival, returning for its 8th year, is the region’s premiere environmental film festival. Its goal is to promote understanding of climate change, sustainability and the power of human involvement through films and facilitated discussion. Times and locations vary, visit oneearthfilmfest.org for more information.
March 2
Registration for Maggie Daley Events Opens Have you ever wanted to try your hand at archery, or maybe improve your fitness? Maggie Daley Park offers numerous
programs for children and adults, and standard registration for spring courses opens March 2. Prices vary; find a full catalogue at maggiedaleypark.com or register in-person at the Fieldhouse. 337 E. Randolph St., 312-742-3918.
March 3
19th Annual Chicago Polar Plunge Support Special Olympics Chicago with an icy dip in Lake Michigan! All participants must raise a minimum of $200. There is a post-event “Melt Down Party” with music, food, a cash bar and more. Costumes are encouraged! 10 a.m.-2 p.m., North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive, chicagopolarplunge.org
March 8-April 4
European Union Film Festival 2019 marks the 22nd year of the European Union Film Festival, premiering 60 films from all 20 European Union nations. The opening night will be hosted by Tiberiu Trifan, Consul General of Romania in Chicago, presenting the U.S. premiere of the investigative dra-
March 2019 Races Mardi Gras Chaser 5K/10K - 10 a.m., Saturday, March 2 - Montrose Harbor Fight for Air Climb Stair Climb - 7 a.m., Sunday, March 10 - Presidential Towers Pi Day Pi K Fun Run 3.1 mile run - 6 p.m., Thursday, March 14 - South Loop Fleet Feet and Lincoln Square Fleet Feet St. Paddy’s Day 5K/8K - 10 a.m., Saturday, March 16 - Lincoln Park Shamrock Shuffle 8k - 8:30 a.m., Sunday, March 24 - Grant Park Chicago Lakefront 50K George Cheung Memorial Race - 8:30 a.m., Saturday, March 30 - Jackson Park ma “Thou Shall Not Kill” by directors Catalin Rotaru and Gabi Virginia Sarga. Full schedule, movie trailers, and tickets available online. Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., 312-846 2800, siskelfiilmcenter.org
March 9-17
St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruises Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a boozy cruise on the lake. Discover a variety of cruises at chicagopartyboat.com. Times and prices vary.
March 9
Chicago Beer Festival at the Field Museum Sample spring beers from over 70 breweries at this one-of-a-kind event. Food, music and access to some of the museum’s exhibits will accompany the brews. 7-11 p.m., $45, 21+, The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, thechicagobeerfestival.com
March 9
Inaugural “Take the Stage” Gala Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles has per-
Mega companies coming to downtown Chicago leads to opportunities in housing market By Urban Real Estate A new year has brought a wait-and-see attitude as the national climate, interest rates and a major local mayoral election bring some pause to buyers and sellers looking to make their next move. Chicago City Hall, the future of the city’s pension plan and property tax proposals all have people watching to see what the next Chicago will look like. Multinational companies, however, have bigger bets set on the Windy City and that might be the key difference to our future over any other market. Matt Farrell, managing broker of Urban Real Estate, sees this as the opportunity that makes downtown neighborhoods desirable even when the national and local climate may differ. “Each of these companies has hundreds of
THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES ARE JUST A FEW WHO HAVE MOVED DOWNTOWN RECENTLY, OR ARE REPORTED TO BE BRINGING THEIR BUSINESS TO DOWNTOWN CHICAGO: McDonald’s
Downtown
Moved from Oak Brook
Beam Suntory
Downtown
Currently located in the Merchandise Mart
Wilson Sporting Goods
Downtown
EXP
Downtown
Relocated from O’Hare to Prudential Plaza This design firm moved from Toronto to 205 N. Michigan Ave.
Expanding
Mondelez International
Moving Downtown
Ferrera Candy Company
Considering Downtown
employees who are also making their move into the city. Some are renters, others are prospective buyers. They all need a place to live, and there are few communities like the New Eastside that offer an immense level of convenience, privacy and beauty, all within
Plans to expand its Fulton Market presence The maker of Oreo, Nabisco & Trident will move downtown from their current Deerfield offices Looking to move to the Old Post Office
steps of the hustle and bustle of the city.” Chicago has a great deal to offer, both to companies and residents. “There is really no surprise as to why this city continues to draw investors and businesses from across the globe,” Farrell added.
“We may have our winters, but the access to public transportation, universities, museums, medical systems, an unrivaled lakefront setting, paired with O’Hare’s planned expansion, make Chicago the perfect fit.” “The best advice we can give our seller clients is to do everything they can to make their homes look as pristine as possible. Beautiful, updated homes will always do better than a home that hasn’t been tended to. Consider your own personal and financial goals, and plan whether this may be the time to sell your home or to seek a second home at a great price,” Farrell said. “The market pace may have stabilized, but Chicago has and will continue to find its way to continued growth.” Urban Real Estate, 400 E Randolph St., (312) 528-9200, Urbanrealestate.com
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| 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. formance groups for members and friends of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community. This inaugural event celebrates contributions to the LGBTQ music community in Chicago and acts as a fundraiser for Lakeside Pride. Tickets include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and food stations and more. 7-10:30 p.m., $125, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St., 773-381-6693, lakesidepride.org
Through March 10
Ice skating in Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park The ice rinks at Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park are open through March 10. Take your ice skates for one last spin this winter for free in either park. Skate rental is available for an extra cost. Hours vary, free, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 742-1168, cityofchicago.org
March 13
Tom Chaffin: Frederick Douglass in Ireland Scholar Tom Chaffin details Frederick Douglass’ 1845-47 tour of Ireland, Scotland and England, focusing on how the journey transformed Douglass and shaped his future work. 6:30-8 p.m., $12, American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Ave., 312-374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org
March 14
The Three Escapes of Hannah Arendt — Exhibition Opening Ken Krimstein’s “The Three Escapes of Hannah Arendt” is a graphic biography of philosopher Hannah Arendt and a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Explore Arendt’s story and meet the author, who will be signing books. Krimstein will be also be interviewed by Alexandra Salomon, editor of WBEZ’s Curious City. 5:308 p.m., free, Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, 610 S. Michigan Ave., 312-322-1700, spertus.edu
March 14
SAG-AFTRA Senior Radio Players A professional cast and sound effects crew
perform classic stories from the Golden Age of Radio. 7-8:30 p.m., free, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., 312-744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org
cago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., 312-294-3000, cso.org
March 22-24
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & River Dyeing Celebrate all things Irish with Chicago’s tradition of a parade—whose theme this year is “The Music of Ireland”—and dyeing the river green. Dyeing starts at 9 a.m., and the parade starts at noon at Balbo and Columbus. More information, including the best spots for viewing, can be found at chicagostpatricksdayparade.org.
C2E2 Comic & Entertainment Expo This year’s Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo—the largest pop culture convention in the Midwest—brings entertainers and fans together for a fun-filled three-day expo. Featured guests include Paul Rudd, David Tennant and Eve Ewing. Don’t forget your sonic screwdriver! See website for hours, tickets from $30, South Building at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, 800-354-4003, c2e2.com
March 18
March 23
March 16
Not All Markets Are Created Alike: A Workshop for New Market Vendors The Chicago City Markets team along with managers from the Logan Square Farmers Market and the Bronzeville Boxville Market host a workshop to discuss markets in the city and and how to find one that fits your business. 10-11:30 a.m., free, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., 312-744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org
March 20
Chicago Human Rhythm Project presents Mayumana’s CURRENTS Mayumana’s CURRENTS is inspired by the battle between Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison to harness sources of energy. Light and electricity are represented with visual effects and soundscapes. 7:30 p.m., tickets from $15, The Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Dr., 312-334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org
March 21 & 23
Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony The Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony No. 3 with Finnish conductor Osmo Vänskä. Also on the program is Sibelius’ Night Ride and Sunrise and Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1, performed by Chicago violinist Vadim Gluzman. A pre-concert conversation with pianist Daniel Schlosberg will take place from 6:45-7:15 p.m. Concert at 8 p.m., tickets from $35, Chi-
Shedd Yoga Flow Start your weekend right with a calming yoga class in one of the Shedd Aquarium’s animal habitats. After the class, meet an animal or go behind the scenes of the exhibit. !8+, yoga mats and museum admission not included. 8-10 a.m., $40 for non-members, $35 for members, Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312939-2438, sheddaquarium.org
March 24
Shamrock Shuffle 8K Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and the coming spring by running an 8K! 6:30 a.m., Grnt Park, 337 E. Randolph St., 312-904-9814, shamrockshuffle.com Magician Michael Carbonaro at The Chicago Theatre Mixing sleight of hand, performance art and illusions, Michael Carbonaro stuns audiences with his magical expertise. Witty, fun and entertaining, this will be a performance you won’t forget. 7 p.m., tickets from $45, The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., 312-462-6300, thechicagotheatre.com
March 24-April 7
Macy’s Flower Show: Journey To Paradisios This year’s Macy’s Flower Show has a whimsical, sci-fi-focused theme: “Journey To Paradisios.” From aliens to extraterrestrial landscapes, this show is sure to stun
guests with its elaborate floral arrangements. See the Macy’s website for times, ticket prices and more. Macy’s, 111 N. State St., 312-781-1000, macys.com
March 25
Kacey Musgraves at the Chicago Theatre Country star and two-time Grammy winner Kacey Musgraves embarks on her Oh, What A World tour at The Chicago Theatre. If you like old-school country, this is the show for you. 8 p.m., tickets from $170, The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., 312-462-6300, thechicagotheatre.com
March 28
Cocktail Club at The Mid-America Club You are invited to attend “Cocktail Club”, our monthly, casual networking event! Enjoy amazing drink specials, mingle with your neighbors and make valuable connections. Reservations are required and space is limited. Business-casual attire. This event is exclusive to Lakeshore East/New Eastside residents. 5-7 p.m., free, The Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph Dr., 80th floor, RSVP to the Membership Department at 312-861-1100 or email Melissa.czyz@ clubcorp.com.
March 29
Whisky Festival at the Hyatt Regency Meet whisky experts from around the world and sample their whiskies at this event for enthusiasts. Attend a free seminar and expand your whisky knowledge. General admission tickets include access to the grand tasting, all seminars, a commemorative Glencairn crystal nosing glass, gift bag, program booklet and pen. 21+, 6-9:30 p.m., $275, Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Dr., 312-565-1234, whiskyfest.com
Tuesdays-Saturdays through March 30
Drinks and Apps for Two Get drinks and appetizers for two people, plus amazing city views, for only $25 at The Mid-America Club with a deal from Travel Zoo. The Mid-America Club, 200 E. Randolph Dr., 80th floor, travelzoo.com
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| NEWS BREAK |
First we learn to crawl, then we learn to drink
I
’m not sure how the great tradition of the pub crawl started. I’m not even sure that Chicago is the home for these particular events, but based on the number of them planned, we might as well be. Jon Cohn For those not familiar with COMMUNITY this concept, let’s loosely call it CONTRIBUTOR a form of recreation, socialization, physical exercise (remember, there is walking involved) and of course drinking. The basic idea—and there have been many takes
on this—is for groups of people to meet with a common theme and wander to various drinking establishment in an assigned area. One drink per location. A rule, not surprisingly, that is often broken. As you can see from the description, the concept isn’t very complicated. The beauty is in its simplicity. Here’s the good part: Whether you are a veteran pub crawler or a novice looking for a new experience, there are plenty of opportunities to get in on the fun later this month. St. Patrick’s Day alone offers several opportunities. Among the selections would be the Irish Stroll Pub Crawl in River North, the Wicker Park Bar Crawl, the Lincoln Park Bar Crawl, the Division
Out and About in February
Jumble CARPERS SINRE TEGNISREG TIEMUN
Street Bar crawl, the Logan Square Bar crawl and the Shamrock Crawl in Wrigleyville—all on St. Patrick’s Day. Can’t make it St. Patrick’s Day but the idea interests you? No worries. There are many more to come, such as the Cultural Crawl (drink and explore new neighborhoods) on April 13, The Office Trivia Bar crawl April 6, and the Cover Your Bases bar crawl in Wrigleyville on May 18. September, October and Halloween bring on another barrage of potential pub crawl experiences. These pub crawls often start at 8 a.m.— yes a.m. Pub crawls are apparently not for the faint of heart (or liver).
What season is it when you are on a trampoline?
Send photos and captions to info@neweastsidecommunity.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.
The February answer is: Q: With February comes the: A: SEASON OF LOVE
A March riddle: Why is everyone so tired on April 1? A They’ve just finished a long, 31 day March!
Submit jokes and quotes to info@ neweastsidecommunity.com Daniela Mota (left) and John Garcai attend a Chinese New Year event at Navy Pier. Photo by Jesse Wright
Where am I?
Where do you think this Streeterville entryway is? Let us know and if you’re right you’ll get a shout-out in the New Eastside News. Submit your guess at info@ neweastsidecommunity. com. Good luck! The answer to the February “Where am I” is … These decorative windows are above a door in the 600 block of Ohio Street.
Catherine Jacobi (left) and Cheryl Berger attend a presentation about beer history at the Dreihous Museum in Febrary. Photo by Jesse Wright
Mary Bober and Mary Murphy attended a Stigler Center lecture in February. Photo by Jesse Wright
Katie Johnston (left) and her mother Lari Johnston attend "Anna Karenina" in February. Photo by Stephanie Racine
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Video Tour Available
360 E Randolph Unit 2705-06 2 Beds 3 Baths - 2,375 Sq. Ft
$840,000 Stellar views from this incredible residence! Combined units affording you 2300 sq ft of living space, facing north, east, west and south.
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Excellent use of space adding functionality to design. Over-sized kitchen and breakfast area looking out on to Maggie Daley park and south city skyline. Wood shelved library takes you from one unit into the other, where you have an office with a view. Schedule your showing, today.
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