June 19 - 25, 2024

4 6 8 14 15

Arts & Entertainment

Event highlights of the week!

Sportswise

The SportsWise team pays tribute to NBA Legend Bill Walton, who died on May 27.

Cover Story: Farmers Markets

StreetWise lists farmers markets across the city, so you can find fresh food transported just a short distance and also learn about programs to improve access in food deserts.

From the Streets

The Chicago Housing Authority's annual Impact Report describes finished units and more still in the pipeline.

The Playground

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of StreetWise.

Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher dhamilton@streetwise.org

Suzanne Hanney, Editor-In-Chief suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Amanda Jones, Director of programs ajones@streetwise.org

Julie Youngquist, Executive director jyoungquist@streetwise.org

Ph: 773-334-6600

Office: 2009 S. State St., Chicago, IL, 60616

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Compiled by Dave Hamilton

A Historic Landmark Re-Opened!

Driehaus Museum’s John B. Murphy Memorial Auditorium Re-Opening Weekend

The Driehaus Museum’s John B. Murphy Memorial Auditorium has received City of Chicago landmark designation. The Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie St., is now comprised of two landmarked buildings – the 1926 Murphy Auditorium and the 1883 Nickerson Mansion. The Museum has restored the auditorium, and will officially reopen it as part of its campus on June 21. The project began last summer and included bringing back the ground floor to its original grandeur, enhancing it with modern lighting, and creating leveled, unified, and accessible seating as a world-class venue for music and programs that support the Museum’s mission and allow it to open its doors wider to the community. Former office space above the auditorium has become a dynamic new Learning Center with art and maker studios, new offices, seminar rooms, and an 800-square foot outdoor terrace on the top floor. Summer programs on the campus will kick off with a weekend of FREE admission including access to the exhibition “Chicago Collects: Jewelry in Perspective” 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. June 21-23. Learn more at driehausmuseum.org

Higher and Higher!

‘Highrises’

Back by popular demand, “Highrises" is at the Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Drive, through August 25. The limited exhibition showcases selected photographs from artist Chris Hytha’s collection of nearly 200 skyscrapers from across the United States. Hytha’s work shines a particular spotlight on Art Deco towers from the 1920s, highlighting ornate, upper-story details that are often difficult to see from the street. The CAC has curated larger photographs that focus on Chicago and the Midwest, with smaller images of buildings located throughout the U.S.. To compose each image, Hytha takes multiple high-resolution scans of a building with his drone, digitally modifies them and adds a panoramic background from the same location. All building images are accompanied by short stories about their significance and the people behind them, written by historian Mark Houser. Included with $14 CAC admission.

Wakanda Forever!

‘Black Panther’ In Concert

TThe Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, continues the inaugural season of its Auditorium Philms Concert Series, a groundbreaking collaboration with The Chicago Philharmonic Society, with Marvel Studio’s iconic blockbuster “Black Panther” in concert. The movie will play on the big screen while a 70-person orchestra comprised of Chicago Philharmonic orchestra members performs the score, led by conductor Emil de Cou. Massamba Diopthe, worldrenowned Senegalese tama drummer who not only played on but also composed sections of the original score, will join the orchestra. Audience members are encouraged to dress up as their favorite “Black Panther” character, Marvel superhero, or in celebration of the film’s Afrofuturist themes. The one-night-only performance celebrating Black excellence in music and cinema in honor of the Juneteenth holiday is Saturday, June 22 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $69 at auditoriumtheatre.org.

‘Take Me With U’ - A Funky ‘Purple Rain’ 40th Anniversary Experience

Let's Go Crazy!

Join Purple Onyx Productions in commemorating the musical and cultural phenomenon of Prince’s “Purple Rain” at this one-of-a-kind performance event featuring live aerial arts -- silks, lycra hoop, aerial sling, flying pole, duo cube and aerial straps -- backed by the music from the multiplatinum album. MC and radio personality Jeanne Sparrow hosts this celebration June 22 at 8 p.m. and June 23 at 6:30 p.m. at Aloft Circus Arts, 3324 W. Wrightwood Ave. Tickets start at $45 at https://go.evvnt.com/2449125-0?pid=6351

The Unifying Power of Boxing!

World Gay Boxing Championships

LGBTQ+ fighters and their allies will take to the boxing ring for the World Gay Boxing Championships (WGBC), Thursday, June 20, 1-5 p.m., to coincide with Chicago Pride. The second World Gay Boxing Championships is spearheaded by two LGBTQ+ trailblazers, founder Martin Stark and Out100 fighter Diego La Valle CevallosGarzon. They bring the unifying power of boxing to one of the largest and most popular Pride events in the United States. $50 on Eventbrite.com at Strong Hands Gym, 3924 N. Broadway.

Evenings in the Square!

Lincoln Square Summer Concert Series

Lincoln Square's FREE Summer Concert Series is at Giddings Plaza, 4733 N. Lincoln Ave., on Thursdays between 6-8:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Enjoy beer and wine for purchase from local vendor, Ricochet’s Tavern, and soak in the feeling of summer in the city. June 20: Model-J, June 27: Renee & The Fam, July 11: The StingRays, July 18 Tijuana Hercules. July 25: Chez Butter, Aug. 1: Jacob Sweet & The Western Harmony, Aug. 8: Los Perros Cubanos.

Pride Month Concert!

PlayOut! 2024 - ‘True Colors’ PlayOut!-2024 is a vibrant musical mosaic inspired by the theme “True Colors,” symbolizing the beauty and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. Delve into the rich tapestry of LGBTQIA+ culture through a captivating program curated by cellist David Sands (pictured), in collaboration with and in full support of Chicago’s Allegrezza Singers. June 21, 6 p.m. at Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. $20 suggested donation.

Games For All!

Gamers' Universe

Discover fresh games, meet new friends, and cosplay as your favorite character at the 3rd annual Gamer’s Universe convention. The event for all ages and flavors of gamers is created by the Chicago Teen Gamers' Guild (CTGG), who create inclusive gaming experiences across the city. FREE at Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., on June 22, 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. View the convention schedule, cosplay guidelines, and more at chipublib.org/gamersuniverse

This Theater Isn't Quiet!

[REDACTED] Presents: ‘Empire Records’

Funny people decimate a movie you thought you loved. They’ll make you laugh. They’ll make you cry. They’ll insert a movie reference. Think Mystery Science Theater 3000, but live. $10 at the door or pay what you can on June 24, 10 p.m. at the Music Box Lounge, 3733 N. Southport Ave.

Broadway Direct to You!

‘Broadway in your Backyard’ Porchlight Music Theatre’s “Broadway in your Backyard,” now in its fourth year, is part of Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks series. This 60-minute concert includes Chicago performers singing favorite songs and hidden gems from the Broadway canon. FREE. Audiences are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the concerts, all starting at 6 p.m. June 20: Skinner Park, 1331 W. Adams St.; June 25: Munroe Park, 2617 W. 105th St.; June 27: Seneca Playlot Park, 220 E. Chicago Ave. PorchlightMusicTheatre.org.

Remembering NBA Legend Bill Walton

Russell: Today we are going to talk about the life and death of Bill Walton: William Theodore Walton III, American pro basketball player. He played college basketball for UCLA, got two championships. He was also part of their 88-game winning streak, and a tremendous sportscaster. He was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1974: the No. 1 pick.

He got two NBA Championship rings: one with Portland (1977) and one with Boston (1986).

John: I remember Bill Walton not only for the championships he won with Portland and Boston and UCLA. There was also that dunk that Dr. J [Julius Erving] of the Philadelphia 76ers did on him in the ’77 finals. Bill Walton got the last laugh in Game 6; Portland ended up winning

109-107, because bonehead Head Coach Gene Shue decided that George McGinniss would take the last shot and not Dr. J.

In his early years, he had a huge problem with his stuttering -- he could not get words out to save his life, so his biggest achievement besides winning championships was, he was able to overcome this stuttering problem. And he was able to be an excellent broadcaster with a colorful personality. He made the world a more fun place. I wish there were more broadcasters like him.

William: I have to agree with John on that one. He did overcome a lot. That's hard for a lot of people to do, especially if they have problems like visual impairment or speech impediments. And he went on to even become a sports-

caster; he gets my respect for that. He made it through an awful lot and played a lot of really great basketball.

Allen: I’d like to review some of his stats from 1986 to 1987. He played with Boston and scored 2.8 points per game, 3.1 rebounds;. 0.9 assists and 38.5 free throws; those are pretty good stats. Not only that, but Bill Walton was one of the best all-around players: rebounds, free throws, assists and points.

Russell: What I like about Bill Walton was, he beat my boys – the 76ers. He was a great player. Too bad his career was cut short by foot injuries.

John: Bill Walton wore the best uniform in the NBA at the time. Outside of the 76ers, the Trail Blazers had some of the best-looking uniforms in the league, especially after

they won the championship in ’77, that cool spandex look. You’re gonna be missed. You were always a very awesome guy.

William: He's a real inspiration to everybody who has to struggle because he had it pretty tough and became a star. I'm gonna miss him too. May he rest in peace.

Allen: He wasn’t just a basketball player. He was known as being a hippie and a biker. He became a star, a great basketball player and an inspiration to his teammates.

Russell: We’re gonna wrap it up by saying Rest In Peace, Bill. You will be missed.

Any comments, suggestions or topic ideas for the SportsWise team? Email StreetWise Editor Suzanne Hanney at suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Vendors (l-r): A. Allen, Russell Adams, John Hagan, and William Plowman chat about the world of sports.

compiled by Suzanne Hanney

FARMERS

2024

SUNDAYS

95TH STREET FARMERS MARKET

Longwood Drive, 1835 W. 95th St. Through October 27, 8am–1pm

Home to a diverse array of farmers, bakers and artisans: Coco’s Tamales, Noffke Family Farms, Stamper Cheese, Lafevor Farm and Greenhouses. Entertainment 10-noon, face painting alternate weeks 10-12:30. Sponsors include Beverly Bank and Trust, 95th Street Business Association, Beverly Area Planning Association, and more. 95thstreetba.org/farmers-market

BRONZEVILLE CITY MARKET (L)(C)(M)

4700 S. King Drive

July 14 – October 20, 10am–2pm

GLENWOOD SUNDAY MARKET (L)(M)

CTA Red Line Morse Station: Glenwood Avenue between Morse and Lunt Avenues

June 2 – October 27, 9-2 pm

23 vendors offer products ranging from meat, produce, dairy, honey, baked goods, sweets, to coffee, tofu, popsicles, and flowers. New this year will be free weekly kids programming such as scavenger hunts, recipes, and agricultural lessons about participating farmers. Weekly recipes will incorporate in-season ingredients available at the Market. A program of the nonprofit Rogers Park Business Alliance. www.glenwoodsundaymarket.org

HYDE PARK DOWNTOWN MARKET (L)(M)

1516 E. 54th St.

June 2 - Sept. 29 9 am-2 pm

Find fresh produce from Illinois farms, freshly baked breads and desserts, personal beauty supplies, natural honey and jams, fresh flowers and plants, body soap and skincare products, CBD and hemp products, hot lunch options, specialty gifts. Market sponsors are SSA#61, Downtown Hyde Park Chicago, and the South East Chicago Commission (SECC). downtownhydeparkchicago. com

JEFFERSON PARK SUNDAY MARKET

Jefferson Memorial Park, 4818 N. Long Ave. (near Higgins)

2nd & 4th Sundays: June 23, July 14, 18, Aug. 11, 25, Sept. 8, 22, Oct. 13, 27

9:30 am-1:30 pm

Sign up online for free yoga class. Market sponsors include Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Park Forward and Patti Vasquez Show. www.jeffersonparksundaymarket.com

LOGAN SQUARE SUNDAY MARKET (L)(M)

On Kedzie, Logan to Fullerton

May 12 through October 27 (exc June 30)

USA Today called this Logan Square market the best in Illinois. Little Peas Kids Club members can get their cards punched with every visit and choose a prize when their cards are full; they are entitled to one free fruit or vegetable per month from a vendor. SNAP/EBT (including Double Dollars) accepted at both entrances (Whipple closes at 2 p.m.) WIC, Senior Nutrition also accepted. www.logansquarefarmersmarket.org

MARKETS

(L) = LINK (M) = LINK

MAXWELL STREET MARKET

On Maxwell, Halsted-Union & Union, Rochford-Liberty May 26-October 27 (last Sundays exc August, rescheduled to Sept. 1), 9 am-2 pm

Back in its original location, this iconic open-air market was established in the late 19th century for newly arrived Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe and was officially recognized by the City of Chicago in October 1912. In the 1930s and 40s, the market became known as a place where many Black musicians who had migrated to Chicago began to develop a new musical genre -- electrified urban Blues, later coined "Chicago Blues." The market was moved to Canal Street to accommodate University of Illinois/Chicago expansion and then to South Desplaines.

The Maxwell Street Market, said Mayor Brandon Johnson, "not only promotes entrepreneurship, but also provides critically important opportunities for small businesses, including craftspeople, artists, farmers, restaurateurs and re-sellers. Our hope is that the move back to its original neighborhood will spur memories of the historic Maxwell Street Market, bring back that entrepreneurial spirit, and ensure its longevity for generations to come."

Expect foods and finds, including handmade crafts, resale housewares, clothing, and much more. There's also live entertainment from cultural partners and nearby businesses. Highlights include Express Grill, Hashbrowns, Jim's Original Hot Dog, Lalo's Mexican Restaurant and Bar Louie and live entertainment. www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/maxwell_street_ market.html

MARKETS MARKET

NORTH PARK COMMUNITY MARKET

Parking lot of Peterson Elementary School, 5510 N. Christiana Ave.

Third Sundays: June 16; July 21; August 18; September 15; October 20. 10am-2pm. Find great local vendors, live music, free kids' activities and nonprofit organizations. September event is part of Bryn Mawr Block Party. northparkcommunitymarket.org

NORTHWEST SIDE FARMERS MARKET COLLECTIVE

Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave.

July 7 & Oct. 20 (Halloween event), 9:30 am-1:30 pm

North parking lot, but inside if bad weather. Fifth Province Pub open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. in conjunction with market. Kenny Lane is July musical guest; Winnamac 3 is October's. This venue partners with Independence Park, Jefferson Sunday Market and Portage Park Markets. www.nwsfmc.com

PORTAGE PARK MARKET

Irving Park Road & Long Ave.

June 2, 16, July 21, August 4, 18, Sept. 1, 15, 29, Oct. 6, 10 am-2 pm

Produce, meats, baked goods, dairy products as well as prepared foods and specialty items.

WICKER PARK FARMERS MARKET (L)(M)

Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave.

May 5-October 27, 8 am-2 pm

Local, environmentally-responsible food; small business entrepreneurship and community cohesion -- yoga, story time, food drives, book swaps -- are the watchwords at this market. Local crafters, entertainers and service providers also have a place to engage with market-goers. wickerparkbucktown.com

ROSCOE VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET (L)

Hamlin Park, 3035 N. Hoyne (new location)

June 9-October 13 9 am-1 pm

Shop fresh produce, breads, pastries, cheeses, honey, nuts and more. Check schedule for free workouts too! www.lakeviewroscoevillage.org/rvfarmersmarket

MONDAYS

EDGEWATER MONDAY MARKET

Broadway Armory Parking Lot, 5917 N. Broadway

June 3-September 30, 3-7 p.m.

40 vendors offer food, activities, entertainment and more. www.edgewater.org/events/monday-market/

FRESH MOVES MOBILE MARKET -URBAN GROWERS COLLECTIVE (L)(M)

10:30 am-noon: Trina Davila, 4300 W North Ave. 1-3 pm: Thresholds Austin, 334 N. Menard

Non-profit 501 (c)(3) Urban Growers Collective (UGC) works closely with community partners to support them in developing systems of their own to grow, prepare and distribute food within their own communities.

UGC operates eight farms on 11 acres of land, predominantly on the South Side. They grow a variety of crops to supply an array of produce to their farm stands, Collective Supported Agriculture shares and the Fresh Moves Mobile Market. In addition to fruits and vegetables, UGC grows culinary and medicinal herbs, edible flowers and ornamental plants for neighborhood beautification. The farms also raise goats and chickens and cultivate honeybees. UCG's goal is to bring the benefit of healthy, locally grown produce to Chicago communities while supporting the growth of urban farmers.

The Fresh Moves Mobile Market is a bus that has been converted into a mobile farmers’ market. This “produce aisle on wheels” works toward closing the "food access gap" by bringing produce to schools, community centers, churches, and health clinics — places that folks already frequent — to make good food accessible in Black and Brown neighborhoods that have been historically divested. The produce is priced to be affordable for all and to provide a fair return for the farmers and makers.

www.urbangrowerscollective.org/fresh-moves-mobile-market

TUESDAY

FRESH MOVES MOBILE MARKET

-URBAN GROWERS COLLECTIVE (L)(M)

10-11:15 am: Claretian Associates, 3201 E 91st St.

1-2:15 pm: Thresholds South, 734 W 47th St.

3-4:15 pm: Academy for Global Citizenship, 4941 W 46th St. www.urbangrowerscollective.org/fresh-moves-mobile-market

GARY COMER YOUTH CENTER (L)(M)

7200 S. Ingleside (across the street from the youth center on the west side of S. South Chicago)

June 25 - November 1, 3-6 pm

Seasonally-picked produce, herbs and flowers grown and harvested by the center's youth, who participate in employment-readiness, stipend-based programs and seasonal part-time employment. As the summer progresses, look for cooking greens, beets, carrots, beans, tomatoes, garlic, peppers, turnips, onions, potatoes, summer squash. cucumbers, and even honey – lightly flavored by local flowers and harvested by certificate-earning beekeepers. www.garycomeryouthcenter.org/services/farmers-market

LINCOLN SQUARE (L)(M)

4513 N. Lincoln Ave. (this season)

May 7- November 19, 7 am - noon

Two dozen vendors present locally grown food. Shopping locally produced food means fewer intermediaries between farmer and consumer. Conventionally sourced produce travels 27 times more distance than locally grown: from farm to transport, to distributor, to grocery store, to table. Sponsored by the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. www.lincolnsquare.org/farmers-market

LOW-LINE MARKET (L)

CTA Brown Line (3410 N. Southport), 3-7 p.m.

June 4-October 8

The Low Line connects Southport and Paulina in a continuous, half-mile walkway and garden underneath the “L” tracks. Curated market has a goal of creating an experience where neighbors can meet while having greater access to high-quality produce. Hosted by Friends of Lakeview. lakeviewroscoevillage.org/low-line-market

SOAR FARMERS MARKET

Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 E. Chicago Ave.

June 4 - October 29, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Find fresh produce, yummy baked goods, gorgeous flowers – even a light lunch! Coordinated by the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR). soarchicago.org/soarfarmersmarket/

WEDNESDAY

ANDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET (L)(M)

1500 W. Catalpa (between Clark & Ashland)

May 15 – October 23, 3-7 pm

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, everything sold at this market is grown or produced within a 200-mile radius. That means Global Garden Refugee Training Farm in Albany Park; Downstate Donuts, produced with potatoes by Chicago restaurant industry pros Virgil & Peter; Ix-Chel gelato, homemade in Jefferson Park; grab ’n go Japanese Onigiri Kororin rice balls, which started off by delivery and is now in grocery stores; Pecking Order Chicago, Filipino street food to be served at home; and bagels, challah, knishes, lox and more by Zeitlin’s Deli. Weekly entertainment includes expanded kids’ programming including Cruelty Free You + Me every week, and sustainability-themed activities on select dates. Stop by Market booth to use Link and Match. Run by Andersonville Sustainable Community Alliance with support from Andersonville Chamber of Commerce. andersonvillemarket.org

FRESH MOVES MOBILE MARKET

-URBAN GROWERS COLLECTIVE (L)(M)

10:30 am-noon: Howard Brown Health, 641 W 63rd St. 1:30-3 pm: Komed Holman Health, 4259 S. Berkeley Ave. www.urbangrowerscollective.org/fresh-moves-mobile-market

GARFIELD RIDGE FARMERS MARKET (L)

Archer & Narragansett 3-7 p.m.

June 5-September 25

Honey, flowers, produce, tamales and other prepared foods and food trucks as well as rotating craft vendors. Special events include “Pizza Wars”: ticketed event for friendly competition among neighborhood restaurants, along with “Wing Wars” and “Bakery Wars.” Don’t miss Elvis and the neighborhood library for kids’ story hour. Facebook, Instagram and midwaychamber.org

GREEN CITY MARKET LINCOLN PARK (L)(M)

1817 N. Clark St.

May 1-October 30 7 am-1 pm

HIGHWOOD EVENING GOURMET MARKET

Everts Park, 111 North Ave., Highwood

June 5 - August 28, 4:30-9:30 pm (exc July 3)

60 alternating food, beverage and artisan craft vendors – gourmet snacks, breads, pastries, ethnic delicacies. Enjoy dinner and cocktails while catching up with friends to different live music acts each week. Theme nights include:

• Inferno Fest June 26 – the hottest and spiciest foods for age 18+

• Margarita Night July 17 – your chance to dress like Jimmy Buffett to the sounds of a tribute band, with Mexican food and key lime pie, beach balls, flamingos and margaritas

• Garlic Fest August 14, for pasta, sandwiches, sauces and spreads, but also chocolate, cookies, ice cream and cocktails. Historical Highwood Cocktail Tours July 10 and August 14, 7-9 p.m., will be a walking tour by Bruce “Buzzy” Bertucci of Highwood’s past century and why it is recognized as “Whiskey Junction.” Food and cocktails available for purchase at each stop. celebratehighwood.org

MARKET BY THE RIVER

AMA Plaza, 330 N. Wabash Ave.

June 5-October 9 3-7 pm instagram.com/grnbamarketbytheriver

PULLMAN CITY MARKET (L)(C)(M)

11100 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

July 10- October 30, 7 am–1 pm

RAVENSWOOD FARMERS MARKET

Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church, 4900 N. Damen Ave. (parking lot)

May 8-October 16, 4-8 pm

Local produce, fresh baked goods and food ready to eat on-site. Kids’ activities including bouncy house, science projects and water games. Community tent with information on local organizations. ravenswoodcommunityfarmersmarket.com

UPTOWN FARMERS MARKET (L)(M)

1250 W. Sunnyside Ave.

May 1 - November 6 2:30-7 pm

Vendors include Mindful Baking, gluten-free and vegan; neighborhood staple Everybody’s Coffee; Los Rodriguez Farm; Not Your Nonna’s small-batch pasta; Nuts to Go – (try Deez Nuts: pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews and peanuts, either Luscious Vanilla or Boozy - the alcohol cooks off); (knife) Sharpening by Dave; familyrun Tamales Express; 2Twenty Bakery, Avrom Farm, Eternal Harmony Vegan Wellness, and more. chicagomarket.coop/uptownfarmersmarket

THURSDAYS

AUSTIN TOWN HALL FARMERS MARKET (L)(C)(M)

5610 W. Lake St.

June 6 – October 31, 1–6pm (exc July 4)

This market was begun by Mayor Rahm Emanuel in 2012 as one of 5 West Side markets in food deserts, close to public transportation, which would also accept LINK cards. It is an initiative of Austin Coming Together and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), intended to bring healthy food, build bonds with neighbors and help people spend time outdoors. It seeks to include market items that are original, handmade, unique, designed or produced locally.

DALEY PLAZA CITY MARKET (L)(C)(M)

50 W. Washington St.

May 23-October 24, 7am–2pm (exc July 4)

Chicago's longest-running Farmers Market features 40 vendors. Long-time favorites include Ellis Family Farms, Leely Chai Co. (formerly Bhoomi Chai Co), Danie's Natual Juice Blends, Nuts to Go, Twisted Olive Imports, and more. New this year are Sandry's Holy Coffee, Nala's Family Kitchen, Joibilee Popping Co., A Slice of Hope Pastries, The Hive Supply Co and Daly's Donuts. You can also grab a lunch to go!

The Daley Plaza market is again this year partnering with Urban Canopy to gather surplus goods from vendors to donate to the Chicagoland Food Sovereignty Coalition. It also gathers compostable items from the vendors and the public, free of charge.

EVERGREEN PARK FARMERS MARKET

Yukich Fields, 89th & Kedzie, through Oct. 24, 8 am-1 pm

FRESH MOVES MOBILE MARKET

-URBAN GROWERS COLLECTIVE (L)(M)

10 am-noon: St. Katharine Drexel Church, 9015 S. Harper Ave.

1:30-3 pm: Boxville, 332 E. 51st St. 3:30-4:30 pm: South Shore Neighbor's Farmers Market, 7001 S.Jeffrey

www.urbangrowerscollective.org/fresh-moves-mobile-market

GROWING HOME (L)(M)

1844 W. 59th St. (59th & Wood) 11 am-5 pm weekly through October 26

Non-profit Growing Home is Chicago's first U.S. Dept. of Agriculture-certified organic farm, an early influencer in the Englewood urban ag scene. Its leaders believe that everyone deserves a good job, to eat well and to live in a vibrant, supported community – and they use their farms to achieve this.

On almost an acre, Growing Home's trained urban farmers raise 200+ varieties of produce. The adjacent farm stand offers free samples, cooking demonstrations, recipe cards. WIC, SNAP, & Senior Coupons double-valued. Third Thursday Celebrations 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. include Grill & Chill July 18; Family-Friend Workshop August 15 and September 19; Harvest Fest October 17. Growing Home produce is also sold at Green City Market, Hyde Park 61st Street Market, Community Supported Agriculture subscriptions and wholesale to chefs. Since 2002, Growing Home has provided farm-based training for people with employment barriers. The program offers 25 paid hours a week, plus help with childcare, criminal records, medical needs or housing – the space to determine one's own success. Trainees benefit from fieldwork, hard skills training and personalized case management. On average, 84% of participants graduate its 12-week program and 81% retain their first job for at least 30 days. Besides urban agriculture, they work in healthcare, educational services, transportation, food manufacturing, service/restaurants, retail grocers, hospitality, and more. growinghomeinc.org/events/

LINCOLN SQUARE (L)(M)

4513 N. Lincoln Ave. (this season)

May 2-October 31 (exc July 4, Sept. 5), 3-7 pm www.lincolnsquare.org/farmers-market

SOUTH LOOP FARMERS NIGHT MARKET (L)

Roosevelt Collection Shops: 150 W. Roosevelt Road

June 13 to October 3 (exc July 4), 4-8 pm

Support local farms and small businesses and enjoy nutrient-dense food that travels shorter distances to your table, which is good for the environment! Free Kids' Zone activities, live music, sound healing experiences, 2-hour validated parking. southloopfarmersmarket.com

FRIDAYS

FRESH MOVES MOBILE MARKET

-URBAN GROWERS COLLECTIVE (L)(M)

10 am-Noon: Chicago Family Health, 9199 S. Exchange Ave. www.urbangrowerscollective.org/fresh-moves-mobile-market

GARY COMER YOUTH CENTER (L)(M)

7200 S. Ingleside (across the street from the youth center on the west side of S. South Chicago)

June 25 - November 1, 3-6 pm www.garycomeryouthcenter.org/services/farmers-market

SATURDAYS

61ST STREET FARMERS MARKET (L)(M)

6100 S. Blackstone Ave.

May 11-October 26 9 am-2 pm

Straddling Hyde Park and Woodlawn, the Experimental Station seeks to provide an oasis in the food desert with produce, meat, eggs and prepared foods from local and regional farms targeted to the South Side's diverse population. It is a place for education about health, nutrition and food preparation; community activity that celebrates neighborhood vitality; and affordability.

This year's lineup includes Ellis Family Farms, Mick Klug Farm, Gorman Farm Fresh Produce, Faith's Farm, Mint Creek Farm, Stamper Cheese, The Urban Canopy, Bot Gluten Free Vegan Bakery, Bike a Bee, Phoenix Bean Tofu, LINK matched up to $25 per cardholder, per market day, as long as funding lasts; Senior Nutrition also accepted. experimentalstation.org

AUBURN-GRESHAM FARMERS MARKET (L)

1341 W. 79th St.

May 25-August 3, 10 am-2 pm

DIVISION STREET CITY MARKET (L)(C)(M)

100 W. Division St.

May –18 October 26, 7am–Noon

EVANSTON FARMERS MARKET (L)

1800 Maple Ave (Oak Avenue & University Place)

May 4-November 2, 7:30- 1 pm

More than 50 vendors will sell a wide variety of goods: fruits, vegetables, meats, flowers, cheese, baked goods and more. Selections range from Blaque Millennium Kitchens’ seasonings to Fred’s Bread: croissants, sourdough, orange blossom cinnamon buns and more by a chef raised in central France who then trained in Chartres and worked in Europe, the Caribbean and NYC before locating in Evanston. There’s also Shady Grove Wildflower Farm: Illinois native prairie and woodland plants grown without pesticides in an Evanston backyard nursery; and Wanda Farm, grassfed and finished beef without antibiotics, GMO or hormones; and pastured eggs, pork and poultry.

The market is open early for seniors and shoppers with disabilities, from 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Link processing is at the City of Evanston tent from 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

You can also shop for original artwork. The Home Grown Artists showcase for Evanston vendors will be featured for 16 weeks, inquire from vchampagne@cityofevanston.org.

The Spud Club offers free fun and educational activities for youth age 2-10 to get them interested in healthier eating. Kids obtain a punch card; after fully punched for each weekly activity, they can select from a market-themed bushel basket.

Free parking is available in the 1800 Maple Self Park Garage, with ticket validation at the City of Evanston tent. Accessible parking is along East Railroad Avenue.

GARFIELD PARK NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET (L)(M)

The Hatchery, 135 N. Kedzie, on the plaza 2nd and 4th Saturdays

Find hyper-local produce grown in community gardens, hypoallergenic bath products, traditional African snacks and BBQ sauces, as well as value-added products like pickled okra and cabbage relish, sourced locally from the Garfield Park Garden Network, which includes some legacy farmers from the Great Migration. www.gpcommunitycouncil.org/programs/neighborhood-market

GREEN CITY MARKET (L)(M)

1817 N. Clark St.

April 6 – November 23, 7am–1pm greencitymarket.org

Abby Mandel (1932-2008) wrote columns for the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, and Bon Appetit and several cookbooks, including “Celebrating the Midwest Table,” “More Taste Than Time,” “Abby Mandel's Cuisinart Classroom.”

Inspired by a 1998 trip to Europe, Mandel started Green City Market in 1999 in the crosswalk outside the Chicago Theatre; the market quickly outgrew this site and migrated to the south end of Lincoln Park, where it is today. Green City is the first farmers market in the nation to require all its farmers to meet the requirements of a nationally-recognized third party agency, such as USDA Certified Organic, American Grassfed Association, Animal Welfare Approved, Grain Millers Certified, Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program. Find baked goods, dairy, flowers & plants, fruits & vegetables; honey, jam and sauces; meats & poultry; prepared foods.

Rick Bayless, chef and owner of Frontera Grill and Board Member Emeritus of Green City Market, commented, "She was just so tenacious about the mission of the market, staying positive and growing and promoting sustainability."

In 2008, Green City became a year-round market, remaining open November through April, first in the Lincoln Park Zoo, then in The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and 3031 N. Rockwell in Avondale, in order to feed Chicagoans and keep farmers in business all year long. In 2014, Green City Market expanded to a third location, GCM West Loop, which began in a local parking lot and then migrated to Mary Bartelme Park in 2018.

Today, it welcomes over 365,000 shoppers each season. Showcasing conscientious and caring farmers, chefs and restaurateurs, the market uses its voice nationally to advocate for the survival of small family farmers who grow clean, healthy food. Many Green City Market vendors offer wholesale pricing to chefs and restaurant buyers.

Musicians interested in performing at this location should apply at greencitymarket.org; electrical power is not available and performers must provide their own equipment.

NETTELHORST FRENCH MARKET

3252 N. Broadway

April 20-November 2, 8-2 pm

Developed by a family that runs 80 markets throughout France and brought the French town square market concept to the U.S. nearly 30 years ago, this market offers Parisian flair in the form of foods and drinks, flowers, clothing, arts and crafts, books and jewelry sold in the open air. www.bensidounusa.com/about

NORTHCENTER FARMERS MARKET (L)(M)

Northcenter Town Square, 4100 N. Damen Ave.

June 22-October 26 (exc Sept. 21), 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Applications still open for mainstage entertainment; bands, dancers, other forms of entertainment: info@northcenterchamber.com or 773.525.3609 www.northcenterchamber.com

OAK PARK FARMERS’ MARKET (L)(M)

Pilgrim Church Parking Lot, 460 Lake St. (one block west of Ridgeland)

June 1-October 26, 7 am-1 pm

GREEN CITY MARKET WEST LOOP (L)(M)

Mary Bartelme Park, 115 S. Sangamon St.

May 4-November 30, 8-1 pm

HEGEWISCH FARMERS MARKET (L)

13323 S. Green Bay Ave.

July 6-October 26, 9 am-1 pm

HEY NEIGHBOR! FARMERS MARKET

7000 S. Jeffrey Blvd.

June 19-July 31, 10 am-3 pm

HORNER PARK FARMERS MARKET

2741 W. Montrose Ave.

June 1-October 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live music at every market, free yoga in the adjacent grassy area every week at 10 a.m., weather permitting. hornerpark.org

LINCOLN PARK FARMERS MARKET

Lincoln Park HS parking lot, 2001 N. Orchard St.

May 4-November 23, 7 am-1 pm

MERCADO DE COLORES (L)(M)(C)

Manuel Perez Memorial Plaza, 4345 W. 26th St.

June 1- October 5, 11am–3pm

Special events include community bake sales, Corn Roast on August 10, Pie Bake-off September 7 and free Stone Soup from farmers' donations at the last market of the season. Sign up at Oak Park Township office for Senior Nutrition vouchers. www.oak-park.us/farmersmarket

PLANT CHICAGO FARMERS MARKET

4459 S. Marshfield Ave.

Every 3rd Saturday: May 18, June 15, July 20, Aug. 17, Sept. 21, Oct. 19, Nov. 2 & Dec. 14 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

SOUTH LOOP FARMERS MARKET

632 S. Dearborn St.

May 18 to October 26 (exc Sept. 7), 9 am - 1 pm

In Printers Row Park, with its community garden and ornamental fountain sculpture, look for nutrient-dense food from thoughtfully curated small family farms; artists; makers, and a diverse range of high-quality food businesses. southloopfarmersmarket.com

WINNETKA FARMERS’ MARKET

754 Elm St. (downtown)

June 1-October 26 7:30 am-12:30 pm

100+ vendors in a walkable experience sponsored by the Winnetka-Northfield-Glencoe Chamber of Commerce. wngchamber.com/farmersmarket

Chicago Housing Authority delivers affordable units

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) and its partners delivered 1,026 units last year and began construction on another 1,115, according to its recently released 2023 Impact Report. CEO Tracey Scott said the housing authority – third largest in the U.S. – has also received 473 new vouchers, the largest allotment in many years.

CHA serves 65,239 households, or 135,000 individuals, in all 77 Chicago neighborhoods, up from 62,452 households in 2015.

The 473 new vouchers will break down as follows:

• 165 for people experiencing homelessness

• 155 for young adults transitioning out of foster care

• 103 for individuals at risk of homelessness

• 50 for people with disabilities

A highlight of the past year was Lawson House, 30 W. Chicago Ave., whose rehab was completed this spring. Opened in 1931 as a YMCA, it was once the largest Single Room Occupancy hotel in Chicago. The building was remodeled into 409 studio apartments with bathrooms and kitchens ensuite in partnership with Holsten Real Estate Development. CHA provided 130 project-based vouchers for its 130 units, for $72 million in rental assistance over the next 30 years. One in 4 of the apartments (25%) is fully accessible.

“With this building, the people who live here are being shown the care and dignity they deserve,” Scott said. “Healthy, thriving communities are for everyone. The Gold Coast isn’t just for those with gold.”

Encuentro Square, adjacent to the 606 Trail at 3745 W. Cortland, is expected to be complete at yearend 2024. Developed in partnership with LUCHA, Evergreen Real Estate and the City of Chicago, its 89 apartments will include 55 CHA project-based vouchered units, an investment of $20 million. Almost all are family-sized, two or more bedrooms.

Located in the formerly vacant Magid Glove Factory site, Encuentro will be two concrete cast-in-place buildings, according to the Leopardo Construction website. Amenities will include 57 parking spaces for tenants alone, outdoor recreational space, a teaching kitchen and a computer lab. Financing included Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), tax increment financing (TIF) and federal HOME funds.

Another building, nearly complete, is 4715 N. Western Ave. in Lincoln Square, which will have 63 apartments: 16 CHA units, 47 other affordable. In addition to ground floor retail, the building will have second-floor parking with 36 spaces: 18 for the public and 18 for residents.

The building replaces a city-owned parking lot on the northeast corner of Leland and Western Avenues adjacent to the CTA Brown Line station at Western. Ald. Matt Martin (47th ward) said on his website that use of city-owned land kept costs down. According to chicagoyimby.com, the City sold the six parking lot parcels, valued at $4.925 million, for $6. LIHTCs, TIF and a bridge loan were also part of the funding mix for the $43.35 million project.

Martin said that the goals for the building were to foster small business and expand affordable housing. Lincoln Square has lost 11.3% of its affordable apartments in the last five years. The building was vetted in a multi-year process that involved almost 1,000 people, Martin noted. It has the approval of the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, Heart of Lincoln Square Neighborhood Association, Greater Rockwell Association and Lincoln North Neighbors.

Set to open this fall are the Foglia Residences at Chicago Lighthouse, 1134 S. Wood St., which will have 76 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. It is the first project in the U.S. to be financed exclusively with LIHTCs specifically for people who are blind or visually impaired. The CHA is contributing 19 project-based vouchers for its 19 apartments.

CHA also launched a Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program that offers qualified residents who are first-time home buyers forgivable grants of up to $20,000; 15 families used it to buy homes last year. DPA supplements CHA’s Choose to Own program, which allows residents to use their subsidies toward mortgages for up to 15 years; 43 families closed on homes with it last year.

-Suzanne Hanney, from online sources

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