New Eastside News Jan 2016

Wacky winter wear

Wanda condos 900k +

Locals sport everything from crazy hats, to nose warmers

Page 7

More info on details and amenities released

Page 12

Got a story tip or question? Call 708-628-3652 January 2016 www.neweastsidecommunity.com FREE

VOL. 4 NO. 1 A NEWSLETTER FROM THE NEW EASTSIDE COMMUNITY

The “Commit For Fit” team, in partnership with Freshii and Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, encourages exercise and nutrition on Michigan Ave.Left to right: Brian Means, Elise Eggemeyer, Tim Wagit, Faith Williams, Desiree Davis, Fay Lamb, Jimmy Allen

Staying true to your New Year’s resolutions

By Daniel Patton | Staff Writer

The will to exercise more and spend less may be strong on the first of January, but most studies show that half of such resolutions won’t make it past March. Sometimes the best way to follow through on goals set during midnight champagne toasts is to hire a specialist. Turn to page 6

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N E W E A S T S I D E N E W S2 / NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2015

N E W E A S T S I D E N E W S JANUARY 2016 / 3


Neighborhood maintenance The passageway between the south-west corner of Lake Shore Drive Bridge and the New Eastside received a makeover to increase its appearance and safety. In addition to installing handrails for pedestrians, CDOT re-moved graffiti and applied a fresh coat of white paint

Catch basins, manholes, water valves and inlets on East Randolph St. from Stetson Ave. to Field Blvd. were temporarily removed and adjust-ed to make way for the street resurfac-ing project completed in December.

The traffic lights at the intersection of Randolph St. and Columbus Dr. were modified to include right-turn arrows that allow automobiles an ex-clusive time phase to turn southbound and westbound.

Alderman Reilly initiated the change on behalf of residents who expressed concern about the congestion caused by busy pedestrian activity combined

with a “no turn on red” sign that made it impossible for any more than “two or three” vehicles to turn during a typ-ical light change, according to Reilly’s office. At his request, CDOT conducted a study and determined that the sign should remain and the light should be modified to include turn arrows.

Skating ribbon open for the season The Skating Ribbon in Maggie Da-ley Park is open every weekday from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Hourly closures for ice resurfacing will occur Monday through Saturday at noon, 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Skate rentals are available up to 30 minutes prior to closing time.

Christmas tree recycling in Chicago Chicago’s Christmas Tree Recycling Program runs until January 17 and includes two drop-off corrals within proximity of the New Eastside: 1. The intersection of Cannon Dr. and

Fullerton Ave. in Lincoln Park;

2. 900 S. Columbus Dr. in Grant Park. The partnership between the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Depart-ment of Streets & Sanitation helped residents recycle 10,000 trees last Christmas.

Winter overnight parking ban in effect Chicago’s winter overnight parking ban is in effect until April 1. Designed to make way for snowplows by pre-venting and removing automobiles from parking on 107 miles of the city’s “critical arterial streets” between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m., the ban includes a $150 towing fee, a $60 ticket and a $20 daily storage fee for owners of vehicles who violate it, according to Alderman Reilly’s office. Although an online map of priority arterial routes and overnight parking restrictions provided by the Department of Streets & Sanitation does not appear to desig-nate any roadway within the New East-side as “critical”, neighborhood drivers are nevertheless cautioned to read all signs posted near parking spots before leaving their vehicles.

CPS credit rating downgraded ... again The bond rating of the Chicago Public Schools was downgraded from Baa3 to B1, also known as “Junk,” by Moody’s Investment Service on December 21st. With a $5.5 billion outstanding tab compounded by a $480 million budget gap and a partisan fiscal standoff in Springfield, CPS’ creditworthiness may plunge deeper during the next three months. According to Crain’s Chicago, Moody’s cited the school system’s “pre-carious liquidity position” and “high credit risk” among the factors current-ly forcing it to remain “under review.”

Head sculpture removed from Millennium Park Jaume Plensa’s Looking Into My Dreams, Awilda — the giant sculpture of a head that has graced Millennium Park since it was installed to honor the park’s 10th anniversary in 2014 — was removed during the first week of the New Year. Presumably, it will continue it’s international tour, but its next location has not been released.

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N E W E A S T S I D E N E W S4 / JANUARY 2016

How to Contact [email protected]

(708) 628-3652

Editor: Elaine [email protected]

Managing Editor: Daniel [email protected]

Copy Editors: Tracey Lewis, Shanti Nagarkatti, Kari Greczek

Layout/Design: Daniel Patton

Community Contributors:Jon Cohn, Tracey Lewis, Shanti Nagarkatti, Matthew Reiss, Angela Gagnon

New Eastside News is published monthly be Eastside Enterprises LLC. New Eastside News uses and values community writers and con-tributors.

Views expressed by community contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of New Eastside News. New Eastside News does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. New Eastside News is inde-pendently owned and operated.

Copyright @2015. All rights reserved.

Art and inspiration for kidsThe Ryan Education Center at the Art Institute

By Angela Gagnon | Community Contributor

Located on the first floor of the Mod-ern Wing, The Ryan Education Center in the Art Institute of Chicago (111. S. Michigan Ave.) is a state-of-the-art facility hosting numerous educational programs for families. As a bonus, it is walking distance from the New Eastside and accessible via the Pedway through the parking garages beneath Millennium Park.

According to Family Programs Edu-cator Melissa Tanner, “the space is a place to make connections to the gal-leries, or a destination for the young.”

The Family Orientation Room offers a warm and inviting space for children of all ages. Babies can treat their eyes to the gorgeous art mural that adorns the northern wall of the room while they play with soft blocks and explore board books. Toddlers and preschool-ers can channel their inner architects and build with wooden blocks, com-plete puzzles of artistic masterpieces, read picture books, and participate in daily art-making. Older kids have access to interactive, digital technolo-gy on the room’s four desktop comput-ers that connect them to art through

matching, story-telling, and image searches.

The regularly changing Inter-active Exhibition Space keeps things fresh. Cur-rently, the space features a “Mate-rials Inside and Out,” installation that connects to the museum’s exhibition of the work of architect David Adjaye. Chil-dren can create their very own “mood board” out of patterns; textures; and materials like plastic, wood, and paint swatches. The mood boards help chil-dren learn how architects use various inspirational elements in project de-signs. According to Tanner, kids have designed bedrooms, tree houses, and even a house for cats.

Younger children might be attracted to a unique learning tool in the room called an “Idea Fort.” Tanner says the Idea Fort is a way that “young kids can explore the idea of creating space by using fabrics of different textures and

material.”

If that isn’t enough inspiration to whet your youngsters’ creative appetite, there are two other exhibit spaces in the Ryan Education Center that are worth a peek. The Trott and McCor-mick Spaces currently showcase work from different community programs. Tanner says visitors can “see the ex-tending reach of art education” when they stop by these spaces.

Children under 14 are admitted free to the Art Institute of Chicago. 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60602 · (312) 443-3600. Visit www.artic.edu.

The Art Institute’s Ryan Education Center. Photo: Angela Gagnon

Doorperson of the month:Gail Rogers, Park Millennium


Doorperson Gail Rogers came to the Park Millennium by way of a contract job for a security company ten years ago. Almost immediately, she “fell in love” with her work. When the build-ing’s management expressed a similar albeit professional interest in her a short time later, the native Chicagoan acted on it.

“I was here for a couple of months and Park Millennium hired me,” she says.

Since then, she has seen the location change and improve at a rapid pace.

“The Aqua wasn’t there, the CVS wasn’t there, and the area with the Mariano’s

and all that wasn’t there,” she explains. “Now it’s a great location and you’re right at everything.”

According to Rogers, the greatest chal-lenge of the job is a round-the-clock demand for customer service. “With all the people in and out,” she says. “It’s like a revolving door. It’s a very busy building and nothing stands still.”

She handles the responsibilities with a virtue that she feels should come naturally to any good doorperson - patience. “You have to be a people person,” she says. “That’s the bottom line. You have to like talking and being around people, and then it works.”

The perpetually upbeat Rogers shows an instinctive knack for her profession and does not hesitate to express her appreciation for the residents who help make her job easier.

“They are wonderful, very good peo-ple,” she says. “I love them very much.”

When Rogers is not tending to the needs of a downtown high-rise con-dominium, she likes to relax in her south suburban home and pursue her professional education.

“I’m taking a real estate class now,” she explains. “Once I’m done with this I think I’m going to do that on the side.” To nominate your doorperson, please email [email protected].

Below: Gail Rogers. Photo: Daniel Patton


Musashi, a 13-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi who lives in the Aqua, bears a name that means “Brave Man” in Japanese. Representing a breed of herders known for intelligence and affection, Musashi not only thrives in the parks of the New Eastside, but also remains very active indoors. Photo: Daniel Patton

Students from GEMS World Academy visit the Santa Suite on the 23rd floor of the Swissôtel. Photo: GEMS World Academy Chicago

Lilia Marie Pinckney made her arrival to the neighborhood just in time for the holidays! Photo submitted by proud parents Sally and Paul Pinckney.

GEMS World Academy students visit theSwissôtel’s Santa Suite

Welcome Lilia Marie to the neighborhood

Cute Pet Alert

By Angela Gagnon | Community Contributor

The long, cold, seemingly endless Chicago winters can be daunting for even the toughest among us. For parents of little ones, “cabin fever” and “stir crazy” rise (or plummet) to challenging levels of intensity once the holidays come to an end. But fear not; New Eastside residents have some nearby, free and culturally stim-ulating resources specifically designed for youngsters. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers can move, groove, learn and appreciate a unique variety of music, dance and theatrical perfor-mances when they attend Juicebox at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Hosted by the Department of Cul-tural Affairs and Special Events, the Juicebox series is geared toward “the stroller set” and held in a kid-friendly

Juicebox series at the Chicago Cultural Center

setting. The bi-weekly events bring diverse performers who teach, engage and entertain their young audiences through song, dance, demonstration and instruction.

There are also opportunities for youngsters to join the artists, either onstage or right on the colorfully padded audience seating mat that covers the floor beneath a stun-ning stained glass ceiling in the

Preston Bradley Hall.

Admission is free. Performances are usually 11-11:45 a.m. on the first and third Fridays of each month through May.

The December 5th show brought Little Miss Ann, Chicago singer and music instructor, to the stage. She captivat-ed with upbeat tunes and encouraged little voices to join in. On December

Left: CAPO4KIDS at the Cultural Center. Photo: Daniel Patton

18th, The International Copoeria Angola Foundation’s CAPO4KIDS headlined. Their Chicago program for toddlers focuses on “cultivating self-value and self-esteem through the use of music and movement.”

Though winter and spring per-formers have not yet been an-nounced, Mary May in the Public Relations Department at the Cultural Center says, “We have

some exciting performances planned that include hip-hop, world music and Taiko drumming.”

For the full schedule and more in-formation, please visit The Chicago Cultural Center’s website — www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/juicebox.html


Want to exercise more and eat less?Continued from page 1.

By Dan Patton | Staff Writer

Drew ScacciaferroPersonal Training Director Lakeshore Sport & Fitness

“The major challenge of the New Year’s resolution is waiting until the New Year to make it,” explains Drew Scacciaferro. “You’ve got to make a decision now. Not tomorrow. Not the next day.”

Scacciaferro has been a personal trainer for 12 years. Besides holding a degree in the field, he wields nearly a dozen professional qualifications including Certified Strength and Con-ditioning Specialist (CSCS), “the gold standard” of the largely unregulated fitness industry. The most frequent de-sire he hears from new clients in early January is “absolutely weight loss.”

But Scacciaferro never advises his clients to strive for the typical New Year’s “outcome-based goal” like “I want to lose fifty pounds.”

“There’s no specificity or timeline or behavior-based changes,” he says. In-stead, he walks new members through a “discovery process” to identify effec-tive individual fitness solutions.

“It’s critical to making that connec-tion,” he says, “asking a series of strategic questions about lifestyle, nutrition, behavior and mindset.”

While weight loss may be discussed, Scacciaferro works with each client to develop an ongoing routine that fo-cuses on “preventive health care” and rarely identifies a particular individual poundage reduction target.

“When you set behavior-based goals, it’s very specific,” he says. “‘I’m going to walk for fifteen minutes three times each week and decrease portion sizes by one spoonful at every meal.’ The numbers, in the end, will take care of themselves.”

Programs include one-on-one, duet, and small group training. Membership includes access to the extensive facili-ty, which includes a pool, a basketball court, a boxing room, squash courts, the country’s tallest rock-climbing wall and 100 complimentary fitness classes per week. On at least one occasion, it doubled as a filmset for Chicago PD.

Illinois Center211 N. Stetson · (312) 856-1111www.lakeshoresf.com

Dr. Dawn WebsterChiropractor Universal Wellness Source

No matter how frequently someone works out, according to Dr. Dawn Webster, vigorous exercise can actually complicate individual health under certain circumstances.

“Sometimes hitting the gym is not the definition of wellness,” she says.

“Weekend warriors out running, train-ing, hitting the gym… if their posture is off, they leave themselves really receptive to injury.”

Dr. Dawn holds a PhD in Chiropractic from Cleveland University in Kansas City and a decade of experience in the field. She joined Universal Wellness Source in Lakeshore East — one of the company’s four Chicago locations — when it opened three years ago. She guides new patients on the path of self-improvement year round.

“It could be January or June, but at some point people say ‘this is the year to get my health together,’” she says. “Especially in this neighborhood, be-cause people work long hours and get so stressed.”

Initial consultations involve a thor-ough neurological exam, a structural exam and a series of X-rays. Recom-mended treatments include corrective as well as chiropractic care. Although the goal is often “to restore the full natural posture back to the person,” the results generally exceed the back-realignment cliché.

“When you start working on chiro-practic, you start working with every aspect of your health in general,” she explains. “The most common thing people notice first off is that they are able to move more freely.”

When it comes to her own wellness, Dr. Dawn definitely practices what she preaches.

“We’re bent over all day long,” she says. “Of course I see a chiropractor.”

333 E. Benton Pl., Chicago, IL 60601 · (312) 565-0655www.universalwellnesssource.com

Above: the country’s tallest indoor rock climbing wall at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness is a great way to pursue a healthy resolution. Inset: Personal Training Director Drew Scacciaferro. Photos: Patton

Claretha Yeager Jade Path Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine

Claretha Yeager admittedly takes longer than most specialists in helping clients achieve their post-holiday goals, but the acupuncturist has a record of success to validate the “three-thousand year-old medicine” that she practices.

Since 2012, her office at Michigan and Lake has helped hundreds of people seeking control over insomnia and PMS. But come January, the doors spin with dreams of losing weight, quitting smoking, and taking less un-comfortable trips to the bathroom.

“Some people overdo it through the holidays,” she says.

One of the greatest factors contribut-ing to her clients’ symptoms is career pressure, which is abundant in the neighborhood. “We see a lot of people between their early 30s and 50s who work in the Loop and have a lot of stress in their life,” she says.

Since stress tends to increase levels of cortisol, one of the body’s natural steroid hormones, Yeager treats the condition by “working with the natural energies of the body to reduce the nat-ural stresses and help down-regulate the fight-or-flight response.”

In addition to lifestyle and nutritional changes supplemented by natural rem-edies, Yeager recommends acupunctur-al treatments when necessary.

“For stress, the number one place to put pins in the body is the ears,” she says. “They are very strong points to help the body relax.”

70 E. Lake St., Suite 630 (773) 669-5724www.jadepathacupuncture.com

Claretha Yeager. Photo: Daniel Patton


Keep fit in the comfort of your own homeBy Jon Cohn | Community Contributor

The cold air, early darkness, and slip-pery snow of winter can deter even the bravest New Eastsider from pursuing his or her daily activities. Personal fit-ness is hit especially hard. A comedian once explained the demotivating effect of cold weather by musing, “What hap-pened to my get up and go? … It got up and went.”

But even when stuck indoors, there are plenty of routines that can help people stay in shape.

Keeping in shape during the cold win-ter months can be a challenge, but it is one of the best remedies for main-taining a sense of humor. So when the exercise starts converting our fats, sugars and starches into aches, pains and cramps, we can smile at the old cliché: no pain, no gain.

Let us count the ways:

By Jon Cohn | Community Contributor

It’s getting ugly out there folks.

The holidays are over and all of us in New Eastside are getting ready to do battle with snow, cold, wind, and what-ever else Mother Nature throws at us for the next few months.

We have been through it before and, like every good Boy Scout or Girl Scout, know how “to be prepared.”

Our WFOB’s (Winter Fashion Obser-vation Specialist) went out on a few nasty winter weather days to see how some of our veteran residents dress to combat the evils of the winter cold.

Here is what we saw, starting from the bottom and working up:

BootsWe saw all shapes and sizes, from neon green to bright pink. Some were tall,

some short, and some with fur. The locals are a practical sort and do what-ever it takes to keep those toes warm.

Pants Nothing dramatic here. Although kids and infants sported a variety of winter pants that were so heavily padded and puffed it looked like we had a bunch of junior Schwarzeneggers walking around.

GlovesForget style: Just keep those hands warm. We saw mittens of all shapes and sizes, made from Thinsulate, wool, fleece and leather. Some were themed — think Mickey Mouse, bunny rabbits and a variety of other animals.

HeadwearHere is where the real creativity begins. We saw earmuffs shaped like Vulcan ears, a nose muff (this one was new to us) shaped like a pig’s nose, and even a winter hat with a beard warmer attachment.

Basically, New Eastsiders have a “do whatever it takes and doesn’t matter how it looks” attitude when it comes to dressing for the cold. But as our New Eastside residents have shown, having a little fun with winter dress certainly doesn’t hurt.

The New Eastside Winter Fashion Observation Specialist presents

Wacky winter wear

The Crocheted Nose Warmer by nutmegnos-ies, available at etsy.com. Photo credit Etsy.

The Octopus Parasyte Cartoon Knit wool cap by AliExpress


Shanti Nagarkatti | Community Contributor

With the books closed on another year, here are a few of the things we’re look-ing forward to in 2016.

To celebrate Lollapalooza’s 25th birthday, Lollapalooza is excited to announce an additional full day of mu-sic programming for the 2016 edition in beautiful Grant Park, which will feature more than 170 musical per-formances over four days. “When the party can’t wait for the weekend, the movers and shakers make it happen on Thursday! So, we’ve put together an entire additional day of music to celebrate our milestone year. It’s going to be a fantastic party!” says Perry Farrell, Lollapalooza founder.

Lollapalooza 2016 will take place Thursday, July 28 through Sunday, July 31. Four-day General Admission tickets will be available for $335 and single-day General Admission tickets will be available for $120 beginning Spring 2016.

Once again, the second city is the first choice for the NFL Draft. For the second consecutive year, Chicago will

Looking ahead to 2016host the 2016 NFL Draft on April 28-30 at Grant Park and the Auditorium Theater at Roosevelt University. Last year more than 200,000 fans from across the country participated in the draft festivities in Chicago, including the highly popular Draft Town, a free, three-day outdoor interactive fan foot-ball festival in Grant Park. The event covered almost a million square feet of the park with concessions, activities and fan caves for each NFL team.

Real Estate Developments

As 2016 gets un-derway, completion is nearing for MILA, the bkL-designed, 41-story, 402-unit rental apartment tower at 200 North Michigan Avenue. The tower anchors the corner of Michigan Avenue and Lake Street, from which the project derives its name. MILA is designed to be LEED Silver certified, with avail-ability and pre-leasing details coming in Spring 2016. The location positions the tower in a key spot along “The Cultural Mile”, an evolving stretch of Michigan Avenue south of the bridge

which has seen a number of new proj-ects alongside Grant Park, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute, including the London House Hotel – set to open in Spring 2016 – to the north of MILA.

Changes are also coming to State Street spaces. Hungry movie buffs now have a new option with a newly opened dine-in AMC theater in the Block 37 shops…Office Depot is out,

and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th is in at the heart of the

State Street shop-ping district. Saks Off Fifth, the retailer’s discount

chain, is opening a store at 6 S. State St.,

in the space that Office Depot occupied before closing its doors. The new store, which is set to open this spring, would be the sixth in the Chicago area for Saks Off 5th... New York-based Tishman and AXA Real Estate Investment Managers, bought the Amalgamated Bank headquarters at 100 and 112 S. State St. from Amal-gamated Bank, which is vacating space and moving to a Loop office tower, the buyer and seller confirmed. The devel-

oper is seeking a single retailer to fill up to 50,000 square feet, said Tishman Realty President David Rothenberg, making it the largest block of retail space on the Loop shopping strip.

Celebrations and Events

Put on something green and cele-brate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago with parades, events, and a trip to an Irish pub. March begins with the Irish Film Festival and continues through the month. This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, March 17. The downtown celebration occurs Saturday, March 12, beginning with the dyeing of the Chicago River at 9 a.m. and continuing in Grant Park with a parade at noon—starting from Balbo and Columbus Dr.

Spring Planting Day

Soon the first signs of spring in the city will lift spirits as the Park at Lakeshore East is transformed from an arctic tundra to a verdant oasis. Each year, thanks to the efforts of volun-teers, the six-acre park becomes a lush, fragrant flower and garden show in what some residents consider an extension of their own backyards.

MMXVI



Trash talking is usually associated with sports players trading insults. The term takes on a new meaning when it comes to high-rise living. Some of the most common complaints I hear among my neighbors have to do with actual garbage.

Whether it’s the garbage chute, the garbage room, or rules and regulations surrounding garbage, there’s much ado about refuse.

We all know that living in a multi-sto-ry building has its ups and downs. As with many things in life, our inherent human nature is responsible for most of the complications. People can be selfish, lazy, sloppy, misinformed, inconsiderate, or just plain stupid. Particularly after the holidays, the desire to dispose of decorations, wrappings, and packaging can magnify these traits. Here is a sampling of what I have observed, which many New Eastside residents might find all too familiar.

Locked chutes. At one time or an-other, residents have experienced the

Oh, chute: The good and bad of trash chutes

disappointment of seeing the red light on their floor’s trash chute and the door stubbornly shut. Facing a cross-roads, the options are to: either wait for the light to go off or drop the bags and flee, which leads to…

Trash on the floor. In nine cases

out of ten, the result of locked chutes. Management posts signs reading, “Please don’t leave garbage on the floor of the garbage chute room,” in hopes of deterring bad behavior. In buildings where the recycling and trash rooms are separate, bags full of recyclables

wind up in trash rooms. Whether res-idents are unaware of their buildings’ recycling facilities or optimistic souls who believe in the existence of a trash fairy remains a topic for debate.

Putting large items down the chute. Pizza boxes, wads of hangers, and down comforters are known to cause clogged chutes. Other items boggle the mind. In one memorable instance, a box spring mattress was disassembled and thrown down the Aqua’s chute. Bemusement over who could do such a thing quickly turned to frustration, once it was learned that the chute would be non-operational for the two weeks (during Thansk-giving) that it would take to clear the blockage, order replacement parts, and complete the repairs. Building main-tenance worked overtime, collecting garbage from each floor’s trash room. While this story gets more exaggerated with each telling, the moral remains: when in doubt, consult your building’s management office. Other resources, such as Salvation Army monthly pick-ups and My Storage Suite services, can also help ensure communal harmony.


By Dan Patton | Staff Writer

The best way to enjoy a Chicago winter is to spend it in Cancun. If that’s not an option, a warm cocktail will do. From December to March, cocoas, coffees, toddies and teas ward off the Windy City chill and turn whipped cream into a blanket. Here’s a list of New Eastside recommendations for the next round.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & SteaksMcCormick & Schmick’s renowned dedication to natural ingredients takes the form of freshly made, real whipped cream dolloped on many selections of an after-dinner drink menu that bartender Rob Connaghan calls, “tradi-tional across the board, outside of the Millionaire Coffee that you don’t see anywhere else.”

Millionaire Coffee combines the Irish

cream and hazelnut flavors of Bailey’s and Frangelico with a “little bit of a boost,” says Connaghan.

Additional selec-tions include one

of the city’s most authentic Irish Cof-

fees: a cup of joe with a shot of Jameson and a sugar cube; and the Spanish Coffee, which Connaghan

recommends pairing with his favorite dessert, the Upside Down Candied Walnut Crust Apple Pie.

“The Tia Maria Liqueur and Korbel Brandy in the Spanish Coffee com-plement the cinnamon ice cream and apple pie,” he explains. “I have a hard time eating it less than once a week.”

All the coffees mix well with McCor-mick & Schmick’s award-winning happy hour, rated number one by USA Today, and into the evening.

“We do a really good job of getting it down to a cozier level,” Connaghan says. For anyone who wants to enjoy an entrée before hitting the sweet stuff, his current favorite is Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna.

1 E. Upper Wacker Dr · (312) 923-7226 www.mccormickandschmicks.com

Sweetwater Tavern & Grille

This hip Michigan Avenue restaurant is full of business peo-ple and tourists at lunchtime, but don’t let that fool you: when the sun goes down, the Sweetwa-ter Tavern & Grille becomes a local joint where bartender Kevin Blake knows most of his customers by name. It’s so laid back, in fact, that

‘Tis the season forwarm winter cocktails

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there are no official warm seasonal drinks.

“We can make anything hot,” says General Manager Phil Miley. “We have a lot of whiskeys, so if you want to warm it up with a little whiskey — or scotch or bourbon — we got a healthy selection.”

The Sweetwater adds the heat of these higher-proof spirits into its regular specialty cocktails, which may come cold on the outside but go down warm on the inside. The Chi-Town Sipper is a combination of Bulleit Bourbon with Amaretto and Apple. The Blizzard Brisk adds Triple Sec and Lemon to Makers Mark. There are also 82 ales, beers, pilsners, stouts, lagers, porters and ciders to choose from.

The menu puts a thoughtful twist on bar favorites like the Mushroom Swiss burger, served with balsamic may-onnaise on a Kaiser roll, and traditional entrees like the Filet Mignon Trio, served with bleu cheese potato puree and grilled asparagus. Desserts include Peanut Butter

Mousse Parfait and Baked Chocolate Chip

Cookie Dough. For anyone looking to enjoy the last course in liquid form, Sweetwater is happy to comply.

“We can always add a little Baileys or Kahlua to your hot chocolate,” says Miley.

225 N. Michigan Ave. · Chicago, IL 60601 · (312) 698-7111www.sweetwatertavernandgrille.com

AmuseThe seasonal drink menu at Amuse is the result of a group effort inspired by the Swissôtel’s Santa Suite on the 43rd floor.

“We wanted to bring some festivity down to the lobby,” says Food and Beverage Manager Ben Quick.

Caffé Rom barista Victoria Weddington. Photo: Daniel Patton

Sweetwater bartender Kevin Blake. Photo: Daniel Patton

N E W E A S T S I D E N E W S

handmade gelato, Caffé Rom’s Med-iterranean dedication is worthy of a Caesar.

This winter, peppermint is all the rage at the cafe, mixing into mocha, white mocha and a brownie that Weddington describes as “super gooey and deli-cious.” There are also a new eggnog gelato and, as always, the Cornetto, a buttery and flaky Italian pastry baked fresh every morning.

For the non-peppermint lover, Wed-dington notes that “white chocolate is super popular around the wintertime” and she is ready to wow customers with her expertise on the cappuccino machine.

“All the baristas here go through ex-tensive training,” she explains. “Any-where from six to fifteen months.” The most challenging aspect of the process, she says, is “Learning how to make the making espres-so shot.” The greatest reward: “interacting with the cus-tomers” once it’s perfected.

So stop in at the Caffé across from Lakeshore East Park to catch some of the interaction. Or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Either way, Wedding-ton promises that, “You get the feel of being inside a true Italian coffee shop.”

E. South Water St. · (312) 981-7766 www.cafferom.com

JANUARY 2016 / 11

The resulting lineup — including The Frosted Berry Combo, The Nutcracker, Jack Frost and Winter Mule — offers enough winter-themed flavors to last all season.

The crowd favorite is the Frosted Berry Combo made with black raspberry Belvedere with strawberry puree, cran-berry and lime juice topped by frosted berries.

“It’s really delicious and easily consum-able so you can down more than one,”

says Quick.

The warm one of the bunch is The Nutcracker, a foamy base of steamed cream and Frangelico flavored with Rumchata, Amaretto and white chocolate.

Quick recommends pairing it with the Hot Chocolate Panacotta, a chocolate gelatin combination that “forms like a pudding” and is topped with pistachio whipped cream prepared daily in the hotel’s pastry kitchen.

The dessert is just one of Chef Dan

McGee’s recent contributions to the menu. Other new dishes include the spicy crab Rangoon, which Quick describes as “one of my favorites”; and the Vitality Burger, a black bean burger with avocado pico de gallo on an avocado brioche bun that is “light, delicious and sharable, especially after the heavy holiday meals.”

Of course, the food and drink are just a part of Amuse’s winter charm. “We have our fireplace and it’s just a really warm and comfortable and welcoming area,” says Quick. “Being in the lobby of the hotel, you get to sit and watch all the world pass you by and we really pride ourselves on our service.”

323 E. Upper Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60601 · (312) 565-0565www.swissotel.com/hotels/chicago/din-ing/amuse/

Filini BarFilini bartender Ergys Dizdari creat-ed “something outside of the typical hot toddy routine” to keep customers warm this winter. The seasonal menu offers three selections made from two different ciders, a dash of exquisite bit-ters and dose of gin, bourbon or rum.

The “Twisted Earl” is a mug of hot cider infused with Earl Grey tea

sweetened by honey syrup and orange bitters. The flavors melt into lemon-peel gin from

Chicago’s Few Spirits with a steam that feels like a home kitchen.

“The Twisted Earl has a nice cider flavor,” says

Surgical Instrument Designer and Aqua resident Doug Slomski. “Ergys recommended it as a seasonal drink and it is exactly what I was looking for.”

Additional selections include the Original Sin, a hot cider with pear and plum flavors, and the Sugarbush, which mixes Four Roses Bourbon with maple syrup and Angostura Bitters.

“It’s about warming up people and their spirits,” explains Dizdari, who crafted the collec-tion with mingling in mind. With three years’ experi-ence at the lounge, he knows that people like to walk around and explore the attractions in the award-winning Aqua Building. “It’s very inviting and cozy, especially with the fireplace and the lobby,” he says. “People also like to go to the art gallery down the hall.”

221 N. Columbus Dr. · (312) 477-0234www.filinichicago.com

Caffé Rom“Anyone who loves true Italian coffee would want to come to Caffé Rom,” says barista Victoria Weddington, “We’re the epitome of Italian Coffee.”

Indeed. The white leather barstools and vibrant colors in this sunny little nook are waiting for Sofia Loren to roll up on a Vespa. Offering several custom-ground multi-blend roasts and a variety of desserts including daily

Filini Bar bartender Ergys Dizdari. Photo: Daniel Patton

Christina Wollerman enjoys the Millionaire Coffee at McCormick & Schmick’s, Photo: Daniel Patton


New Eastside Performer Explains WhyChicago Sketch Comedy Festival is worth the trip

By Matthew Reiss | Community Contributor

Winter can be a dreary time in Chi-cago. With the lineup of writers and performers that plan on attending the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festi-val (Sketchfest) January 7-17, your post-holiday doldrums will be kicked to the curb.

Now in its 15th year, Chicago Sketch-fest is the largest nonprofit sketch comedy festival in the nation, hosting over 160 groups from around the globe in 4 theaters for 8 nonstop days. The festival takes place on Stage 773 at the Belmont Theater in Chicago’s Lakeview Neighborhood.

I am a member of The Stuntmen, a group that has performed at the festival for the past six years. Every January, I travel from Lakeshore East to Lakeview with a bag of pirate hats, Bigfoot costumes, and other props.

One of our group’s most memorable gigs required a breakaway chair for a fight scene in the opening sketch. After ordering the chair and underesti-mating the time it would take to ship, I received it on the evening of the show. Bundling the giant box into a cab, I

raced to the theater and assembled the chair just before the curtain went up. Two minutes later, to the audience’s delight, the chair shattered over a performer’s back.

I began performing sketch comedy in 1991 and find it personally reward-ing. It is a pleasure seeing my words brought to life by a group of talented performers willing to act out my come-dic musings.

Second, I love moving my audience to laughter. Our group molds an idea from scratch, commits to it, and braves the risk of rejection at each performance. Sometimes I get nervous before a show, but I view the anxiety as positive—it means I care and am invested in the outcome.

Finally, I love rehearsing comedy. It’s cathartic to give myself permission to laugh and be silly on a regular basis. Comedy is a life-affirming activity that brings me constant joy and hopefully puts some laughter out into the world in the process.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.stage773.com/Chi-cagoSketchfest.

The Stuntmen: (left to right) Shane Murphy, Adam Ston, Matthew Reiss, Brian Zeman, Matt Kawa. Photo: Daniel Patton


The Wanda Tower at 381-383 E Wacker Drive reached another milestone on its climb to becoming the third tallest building in Chicago. The city’s Plan Commission approved the $1 billion, 1,100-square-foot project in Novem-ber but details on the amenities and cost of condominiums in the building have been scant, until now.

To begin at the bottom, the tower’s lobby will face the Lakeshore East Park. Although a Wacker Drive ad-dress has been cited in many reports, a recent post by the Chicago Architec-ture Blog suggests that residents and visitors will access the building from Waterside Drive.

A hotel will occupy the second through eleventh floors and will share ameni-ties — including a bar, a terrace, two restaurants, an exercise room, and a children’s room — with condominiums on the thirteenth floor.

Nine condominiums will occupy each floor from the 14th to the 46th.

Wanda Tower updateExclusive amenities for condominium residents will occupy the 47th floor and will include a kitchen, a dining room, a music room, a theater, a lounge, a pool, a hot tub, a fire pit, and two game rooms.

One-bedroom units ranging in size from 1,160 to 1,300 square feet will start at $900,000 and go up to $1.5 million. Two-bedrooms, which range in size from 1,700 to 2,400 square feet, will start at $1.3 million and go to $2.5 million. Three-bedrooms from 2,200 to 2,600 square feet will be priced anywhere from $1.5 million to $5.5 million. Four-bedrooms of unspecified square footage will cost between $4.6 million and $7 million.

Full-floor residences range from $9 million to $18 million.

Parking is not included in the price of each unit. Assessments are expected to range from $480 to $9,200 per month, or $5,760 to $110,400 annually.

Groundbreaking is slated for April 2016. Completion is planned for 2020.

Terms, conditions and fees of accounts, programs, products and services are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Certain restrictions may apply on all programs.© 2015 Citibank, N. A. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC. NMLS# 412915. Citi, Citibank, Arc Design and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

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Local spots to watch the Super BowlBy Daniel Patton | Staff Writer

During this year’s Super Bowl, the thrill of victory won’t mean much to Bears fans because the team’s post-season hopes ran out long ago. Luckily, there are a few local venues that can help Chicagoans watch the battle between who-cares and not-the-Bears while still having some fun.

The Billy Goat Tavern60 E. Lake St. (312) 346-5620www.billygoattavern.com

The Billy Goat offers fans a chance to celebrate not only football but also another great Chicago tradition: the tavern is part of a chain that includes the legendary lower Michigan Avenue bar and restaurant immortalized by John Belushi and Bill Murray on Satur-day Night Live.

“It’s got a neighborhood feel, but it’s still downtown,” says Manager Bill Sianis. “You can come in and get a

cheeseburger and a drink and watch the game.”

With a handful of hi-definition TVs behind the bar and a large monitor in the dining area, the Goat has become a popular stop for fans traveling to and from Soldier Field. It also draws a local crowd that includes former Bears tight end Kaseem Sinceno, who played for the team from 2000 to 2001.

During a recent visit, the down-to-earth former pro took time to recount the best game of his career. “It was against the Vikings,” he says. “Four catches, eighty-seven yards: fantasy owners loved me that week.”

In other words: Super Bowl, Schmuper Bowl. The Billy Goat is where fans can support a true hometown hero — the Goat itself.

Bears fans at the Billy Goat Tavern on Lake St. Left to right: Kurt LeVitus, Franz Judkins, Kaseem Sinceno, Saul Ramirez, Ben Firkins. Photo: Daniel Patton

The Sweetwater Tavern & Grille225 N. Michigan Ave. · (312) 698-7111www.sweetwatertavernandgrille.com

On Sundays during the regular season, the Sweetwater on Michigan Avenue goes all out for football. With 82 beers and 25 TVs, fans can travel through a world of hops while enjoying nearly 360 degrees of access to the action. But it doesn’t stop there.

“We have a live DJ who feeds into our system,” says General Manager Phil Miley. “When a commercial pops up, it cuts to his computer and he plays fun-ny YouTube clips and stuff like that.”

Although Miley explains, “We’re not sure what we’re doing for the Super Bowl yet because people like to watch the commercials,” the Sweetwater will probably cater to whatever the fans demand. The venue has been known to postpone its normal 10:00 p.m-ish Sunday night closing time on occasions when “we’re rocking and rolling.”


Houlihan’s announced last month that it has closed its downtown location on Upper Wacker Drive, in the Illinois Center.

The reason for the closure was not im-mediately clear. “Parting is such sweet sorrow,” the restaurant posted on its Facebook page, “We have closed our doors for good and want to thank each and every one of you for all the great memories.”

Leawood Kansas-based Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc. still operates six sub-urban Illinois locations in Algonquin, Geneva, Naperville, Orland Park, Park Ridge, and Wheaton. A sign posted on a locked door invited patrons to visit these other outposts.

Long a feature on the Pedway’s dining map, Houlihan’s appeared to have been doing a thriving business for breakfast buffets, happy hours, and

everything in between in the weeks and days leading up to the closure. During spring and summer, a side-walk patio provided a prime vantage point for people-watching and enjoy-ing a beverage or two. Its proximity to nearby hotels and offices ensured a steady stream of foot traffic. The establishment was highlighted in this publication as a Thanksgiving dinner option for diners who wanted to leave the food preparation and dishwashing to someone else.

Among the patrons surprised by the restaurant’s closure is Josh Tamlin. “The food was always good and they had great deals. The decor was pret-ty cool, with an awesome fish tank up front and plenty of TVs to watch sporting events,” he said.

A glance through the windows reveals a vacant, darkened interior with stacks of tagged, numbered dishware; kitch-en items; dining room furnishings; and miscellaneous odds and ends that

are going up for auction on January 6, 2016. Also on the auction block is a variety of memorabilia, including a football signed by Mike Ditka, a Mar-ilyn Monroe bust, RCA Nipper statue, a seven-foot-long wooden swordfish, and several vintage metal signs.

Bob King Auctions, specializing in commercial auctions, appraisals, and liquidation services, has posted a list

of auction items, with photos, on its website. Anyone who wishes to take part in the auction must register and provide a bidder’s card and $200 refundable cash deposit. No one under sixteen years of age is allowed on the premises for safety reasons.

Plans for the former Houlihan’s space are unknown at press time. The compa-ny could not be reached for comment.

Houlihan’s shutters downtown location

Last call at Houlihan’s on Wacker Drive. Photo: Daniel Patton


EventsSchedules are subject to change. Call venues to confim event information.

Chicago’s Navy Pier. Discounted group tickets available on specific dates. Navy Pier. $7 to $10www.navypier.com/pnc-bank-win-ter-wonderfest/

Through Feb. 27, 2016 Pedway Walking Tour & BrunchExplore underground downtown through the Chicago’s network of sublevel passageways from the Radis-son Blu to Macy’s. The three-hour tour includes brunch at the Hyatt Regency’s American Craft kitchen and a trivia contest. $50 - $709:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SaturdaysRadisson Blu · 221 N. Columbus Dr.www.goldstar.com/chicago/events/chi-cago-il/pedway-brunch-tour

January 2 - 10, 2016Who Killed JFK?The Assassination Theater in the Mu-seum of Broadcast Communications dramatizes the motivations, people and events behind the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy. $39 - $49Wednesday 2 p.m. · Thursday and Fri-day 7:30 p.m. · Saturday 5:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. · Sunday 3 p.m.Museum of Broadcast Communica-tions · 360 N. State St.www.assassinationtheater.com

January 12Chef Roast at the River RoastFour chefs prepare a four-course dinner and then the roasting really begins. WXRT Radio’s Lin Brehmer will host an after-feast culinary-themed comedic recipe that calls for “roast-ing” the main ingredient — the chefs themselves — in a scenic bistro along the river.$75 plus handling fee6 p.m. to 9 p.m.315 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60654, 312-822-0100www.riverroastchicago.com/#_doin

On the American holiday dedicated to the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, JR., Chicago’s world-class museums offer free admission for visitors

who display a valid ID that has an Illinois address.

FREE ADMISSION FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTSMartin Luther King Museum Day

Adler Planetarium1300 S. Lake Shore Dr. · (312) 922-7827

www.adlerplanetarium.org

Chicago History Museum1601 N. Clark St. · (312) 642-4600

www.chicagohistory.org

Chicago Museum of Science + Industry5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. · (773) 684-1414

www.msichicago.org

Shedd Aquarium1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. · (312) 939-2438

www.sheddaquarium.org

January 15, 2016DJ Ravi at Chicago Cultural CenterThe Detroit-born DJ lays down the groove that helped him earn a Smart Bar Junior Residency.Free · NoonChicago Cultural Center78 E. Washington St.(312) 744-6630www.cityofchicago.org

January 17 / 18, 2016Chicago Sinfonietta presents a Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.This year’s “long-standing Sinfonietta tradition” started by the Sinfonietta’s late founder, Maestro Paul Freeman, features Grammy award-winner Victor Wooten playing bass on The Bass Whis-perer, a piece he composed with Conni Ellisor.

January 17 · 3 p.m.Anthem of Praise, Smallwood Wentz Concert Hall171 E. Chicago Ave. · Naperville(312) 284-1554www.chicagosinfonietta.org $10 - $60

January 18 · 7:30 p.m.Anthem of Praise, Smallwood Chicago Symphony Center

220 S. Michigan Ave.(312) 284-1554www.chicagosinfonietta.org $10 - $60

January 22 - Feb. 4, 2016Chicago Restaurant WeekEnjoy two straight weeks of culinary delights at more than 250 restaurants in and around Greater Chicago. Prix fixe menus start at $22 for lunch and $33 or $44 for dinner. See www.eati-tupchicago.com for a full list of partici-pating venues.

January 29-31Ideal Home Show ChicagoIdeas for every home including demon-strations, vendors, shopping, celebri-ties and onsite how-to seminars.Adults 13 and over $10 (door), $7 (on-line); Seniors 65+ $7; Children under 12 free with adultFriday, noon to 8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave.www.idealhomeshowchicago.com

January 30, 2016Mardi Gras at the Cultural CenterThe Mystick Krewe of Laff — a so-cial aid and pleasure club named for the Great Spirit of Humor and Fun

Free Kids Events at Mariano’s

January 9 and 10 · 11 a.m.Citrus Showdown

January 16 and 17 · noonTales for Tots

January 22 · 3:30 p.m.Miss Jamie from the Farm

January 23 and 24 · 11 a.m.Penguin Playtime

January 30 and 31 · 11 a.m.Juice & Mimosa Bar

333 E. Benton Pl.(312) 228-1349

http://www.eventbrite.com/o/marianos-chicago-lake-shore-east-4535970073

Free days at Chicago MuseumsShedd Aquarium

January: 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 22-26

Art Institute of ChicagoFree Thursday EveningsGeneral admission free to IL resi-dents every Thursday from 5-8 p.m.

Adler PlanetariumJanuary 4-8,11,12,15,18-22, 25-29

Chicago Children’s MuseumFree 5-8 p.m. every Thursday and the first Sunday of every month for kids 15 and under.. Always free to children under 1

Chicago History MuseumJanuary: Monday-Friday

Museum of Science and IndustryJanuary: 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-29

Peggy Notebaert Nature MuseumThursdays free for Illinois residents. Children under 3 free every day.

Through January 10 Winter WonderfestBeat the cold at Chicago’s 15th an-nual PNC Bank Winter Wonderfest. Enjoy a train ride, a Ferris wheel, a skating rink and dozens more attrac-tions under a dazzling light display in the 170,000-square-foot interior of


stay warm and watch others do it.Noon · Oak Street Beachwww.lakeviewpolarbearclub.com

January 29/30Oberlin Conservatory DebutThe nation’s oldest continuously oper-ating conservatory brings its Contem-porary Music Ensemble and Orchestra to perform two consecutive nights in Chicago.

January 29 · 7 p.m.One Bright Morning by Jesse JonesGanz Music Hall430 S. Michigan Ave.(440) 775-8200www.oberlin.edu/chicago2016Free admission, RSVP required

January 30 · 8 p.m.Roman Carnival Overture by Hector BeriozChicago Symphony Center220 S. Michigan Ave.(312) 294-3000www.cso.org/ticketsandeventsFree admission, RSVP required

January 31D’Vine AffairOne of Chicago’s greatest wine events, featurig 90 international vintners pouring 250 varieties, a craft & im-ported beer tasting, a wine barrel auction and much more. Celebrating its 15th year raising funds for Catholic Charities. $125Union League Club65 W. Jackson Blvd. (312) 655-7700www.catholiccharities.net/Events/Sig-natureEvents/dVineAffair.aspx

EventsSchedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.

— hosts a feast for the sensations. Entertainment includes a line pa-rade and live music by The Heard and Big Shoulders Brass Band. Libations include Hurricanes and Swamp Juice. Food includes a buffet. After-party at the Billy Goat from Midnight to 3 a.m. $50 · Chicago Cultural Center · Preston Bradley Hall · 78 E. Washington St. www.mystickkreweoflaff.org

January 30, 2016Celebration of Shrinkage 2016 Polar Bear PlungeEnjoy one of Chicago’s most delightful-ly cold-blooded and fun-loving events by leaping into the icy waters of Lake Michigan in the middle of winter. Or

CHICAGOWINTER RACES

Chicago Polar Dash Half, 10K / 5K 1600m

Saturday, January 9 · 9amGrant Park

7th Annual F^3 Lake Half MarathonSaturday, January 23 · 10am

Solider Field

Aon Step Up for Kids (80 Floors)Sunday, January 31 · 8am

Aon Center

Mardi Gras Chaser 5K/10KSaturday, February 20 · 10am

Montrose Harbor

Cupid’s Undie Run Children’s Tumor Foundation

February 13 · NoonJohn Barleycorn · 3524 N. Clark St.

January 6, 2016 · 12:15 p.m.Pianist Sean Chen performs Rach-maninoff’s Sonatine and Piano Sonata No. 2.

January 13, 2016 · 12:15 p.m.The Allant Trio performs Kelly Marie Murphy’s Give Me Phoenix Wings to Fly, Mendolssohn’s Piano Trio No. 1, and Bridge’s Miniatures for Piano Trio.

January 20, 2016 · 12:15 p.m.Daria Robatkina performs Chopin’s Nocturne and Schumann’s Humoreske.

January 27, 2016 · 12:15 p.m.The Tekalli Duo performs Messiaen’s Thème et variations, Brahms’ Violin Sonata No. 3, and Chopin’s Grand Valse Brillante.

Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts at the Chicago Cultural Center

The international music foundation presents free weekly concerts under the exquisite dome of Preston Bradley Hall.

The Chicago Cultural Center78 E. Washington

Presented by the international music foundation(312) 670-6888 · www.imfchicago.org/hess/main#/hess/schedules/395

Cozy up to warm hotel musicAlthough we become a little claustro-phobic when winter sets in, the need to get out and “feel the beat” can strike at any time. Music helps shake the doldrums. What better way to beat the winter blues than to go out and listen to some, well, blues? Or jazz? Or oldies? Or maybe even some oldies in a piano bar? Chicago offers a number of melodic options.

Places like Andy’s Jazz, Howl at the Moon and The Redhead Piano Bar offer music every night of the week. There are also a plenty of hotels play-ing warm notes on cold winter nights.

They may be a short walk or quick cab ride from home, but still close enough to make it easy for New Eastsiders to find the beat in a hurry. — Jon Cohn

Jazz at The KnickerbockerChad Willetts TrioFridays - 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. www.millenniumhotels.com/chicago 312 751 8100

Jazz at the Tortoise Club John WadeFridays - 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.Mark Brunell TrioSaturdays - 8:30 p.m. to 12 a.m.www.tortoiseclub.com · 312 755 1700

Live music in The PeninsulaGabriel DacuFridays, Saturdays - 7 to 10 p.m.chicago.peninsula.com/en/default 312 337 2888

Acoustic Music at The WitChicago-based rotationFridays, Saturdays - 10 .p.m to 1 a.m. Sundays - 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. www.thewithotel.com · 312 467 0200

Jazz at The Ritz Carlton Myles HayesFridays, Saturdays - 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. www.ritzcarltonchicago.com 312 266 1000

Reggae at The Hard Rock CaféHurricaneFridays - 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Urban Rhythm Saturdays - 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. www.hardrockhotelchicago.com 312 334 6760

DJ’s at The RenaissanceChicago-based rotationFridays, Saturdays - 7-ish to latehttp://www.marriott.com 312 372 7200

Live Music at the Loews HotelFridays, Saturdays - 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.loewshotels.com/chicago 312 840 6600

February 5, 2016Family Valentine Dance at Maggie DaleyBring the entire family to Maggie Daley Park for a Valentine’s Day

treat. Moms, Dads and kids from 2 to 11-years-old are invited to turn the Field House into a sweetie pie boogie.

www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/Family-Valen-tine-Dance-at-Maggie-Daley

337 E Radolph St. · 312 742 39185:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

$10 per family


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New Eastside News Jan 2016