Issuu

2015

Winter

THE

Giving ISSUE THE HERO

FOUNDATION

WOMEN AT RISK INTERNATIONAL faces apparel + roma footwear chicago writer evelyn lauer 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS-WINTER 2015

MUSIC MUSTS Top 10 Winter Albums 50

IN EVERY ISSUE

Top 10 Winter Concerts

Editors Letter

Meet Amitis

Meet the Team

Joanna Marie

LOCAL OPTIONS Mrs. Murphy & Sonâ€™s 36

Winter Sports Recap 38

WOS Podcast 68

THE SPOTLIGHT The Culture Spotlight 72

A Magic Carpet Ride

Meet Ashley Lauren

Women At Risk, Intl.

Kent State University

40 44

74 82

Fashionista Chicago 88

GROOMING/HEALTH Winter Roundups 148

Best of Skincare

FASHION & LIFESTYLE

152

ART & CULTURE J. Open Heart

Faces Apparel 90

Brands that Give 94

Looks for Less 98

WTF?! Stars Moda 109

FEATURES Fashion Loves Art 112

156

Halfstack Bookshelf 160

In My Father’s House 164

116

EDITORS LAST LOOK N’Spired Thoughts

126

Overcoming Holiday Dread

Gary’s Story/Peer Services Evelyn Lauer Storms Woodland Preserve 138

168

170

Roma Footwear 141

Enjoy Essential 144

Hello readers, welcome to the Winter 2015 Annual Giving Issue. Thank you for taking the time to experience our work and share in our journey. As I write this letter, I think about all the things going on in the world that can shroud us in darkness. I think about the hate we see in the media, the fighting and the wars we are exposed to. I think about the sadness that can engulf us. Despite the negativity that is so prominent in the world, I also realize that there is so much beauty and kindness. Just last month,

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

we saw innocent people perish in Paris and Beirut. We saw bombs explode and we heard some candidates speak with hatred and fear. Yet, there are so many in this world fighting for good, pushing forward for change and attempting to make a difference in the world that seems so dark. As I put this issue together with my team, I realized that while we can’t hide from the darkness, we can find beauty in the people who are overcoming that darkness. This issue, just like other winter issues in the past, is being dedicated to those organizations and people who so willingly give back. People who are an inspiration and are a testament to the idea that there is so much good in this world. We just need to look a little deeper. This issue we are sharing stories such as Gary’s. It’s a dark story about addiction and loss. Yet, it is also a story about strength, empowerment and hope. Laura’s writing and photography beautifully captures one family’s battle and their journey to overcoming the loss of a son gone to

JENNIFER M. LEZAN-VEGUILLA EDITOR IN CHIEF & FOUNDER

soon. We are featuring organizations such as the Hero Foundation and Women at Risk, International. Each of these non-profits gives people another chance at life. Our cover feature showcases: Evelyn Lauer, a Chicago writer who is working on her memoir of love lost. Her

story is one that so many people can relate to and is a

testament to the person we can all become once we move on and forgive. We also spotlight individuals such as Ashley Lauren and J. Open Heart, creatives who are leaving a beautiful mark on the world around them. Louis is sharing an update on our favorite indie artist: Joanna Maria as well as a highlight on the Women of Substance Podcast. Tareq brings in an international spin with a feature on: Amitis. Tyronita shares an in-depth interview with Chicago’s own: Cheland “Rhymefest” about his recent film debut: In My Father’s House. You will find our typical beauty and fashion roundups, but this issue there is a twist featuring brands that give back and are making an impact on their community. Each of these brands are perfect opportunities to shop with a purpose. We close out this issue with two beautiful inspirational pieces focused on the true meaning of the holidays and finding ways to cope during this season brought to you by writers: Reynisha Lindsay and Jennifer Gordon. In today’s world, we need to take the dark moments as opportunities to love more. We need less hate today and tomorrow than we had yesterday. It only seems like things will get more difficult before they get better. Yet, we don’t need the heartache and sadness to embitter us. Please don’t turn your back on the world. Find a way to love. Take these moments to find the kindness and the beauty. Those are the things that should be remembered.

JENNIFER M. LEZAN - EDITOR IN CHIEF

jennifer veguilla eic/creative director founder @halfstackmag

kate roth founding member

mariana quaranta founding member

PHOTOGRAPHY

LAURA LOPEZ lead photographer

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Perry Fish lead photographer

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HALFSTACK EDITORIAL

meet the

pearl shin photojournalist

teresa cutrera fashion editor

team

& blogger

jennie velasco set stylist/editor

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shirin koril lead photographer

carolyn portner west coast correspondant

thom olson blogger & online digital editor

STAFF WRITERS

& DESIGNERS KALI KOLLER

Creative & Graphics Designer

SAMMY SITHIPONG

Creative & Graphics Designer

ANNABEL CARRILLO

LAUREN PFEFFER

Creative & Graphics Designer

JAMIE L. BREEDEN

Creative & Graphics Designer

DANIELLE PULAK Sr. Beauty Editor

STAFF BLOGGERS

AIRA LHEIZ AQUINO

Creative & Graphics Intern

STELLA QUIMBY Sr. Fashion Editor

DIGITAL TEAM

NEW ADDITIONS Staff Bloggers MIKE SHAYLER PETER JAMES HALEE NORDHUES RAMONA MEADORS MYKAH WILLIAMS

DWIGHT BEJEC Social Media Director DENISE GUEVARA Staff Blogger/Youtuber

REYNISHA LINDSAY Staff Writer

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TRACI CICARELLI Staff Blogger/Youtuber

ELAINE RAU

ROB SAMUELSON

TARIQ ALSAUD

Digital Blogger

Staff Writer/Blogger

Catie Coscino Staff Writer/Blogger

JENNIFER OQUENDO Staff Writer/Blogger

KANDACE MCVICKAR Staff Blogger

Andre Thompson Staff Blogger

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Louis Vasseur Staff Blogger

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AVANTE EDMONDS Staff Blogger

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A Taste of Ireland in Chicago:

Mrs. Murphy & Son’s Irish Bistro Written by: Pearl Shin Layout by: Annabel Carrillo

f there’s one restaurant that you need to try out this winter, it’s Mrs. Murphy and Son’s Irish Bistro. The Irish pub and restaurant recently celebrated its ten-year anniversary earlier this year. Mrs. Murphy and Son’s Irish Bistro is known as the most authentic Irish pub and restaurant that one can visit in Chicago, without actually stepping foot in Ireland, and that compliment is most well-deserved. The first thing that you’ll notice when you walk into Mrs. Murphy and Son’s Irish Bistro is the authentic setup of the restaurant. Like any Irish pub, the restaurant has a mainly wooden interior and low lighting, which makes the place seem more comfortable and full of warmth. However, staying true to the Chicago spirit, there are also a lot of TVs set up around the bar so that diners can watch a good old game of hockey. Overall, the atmosphere is very welcoming with a staff of kind, patient, and friendly individuals. The service is top-notch and speedy as well. The only thing that may be better than the kind staff and amazing service is the food itself. The menu offers a wide array of different Irish cuisine, including the traditional Fish and Chips, Shepard’s Pie, and their renowned dish, the Guinness Mac and Cheese. The dishes pictured here are the Potato Mushroom Lasagna and the Roasted Salmon with Curried Lentils, both dishes that I highly recommend.

The food served at Mrs. Murphy and Son’s Irish Bistro is cooked and crafted with the utmost care, which is noticeable the moment you take a bite. Though the dishes mentioned above are from their dinner menu, the restaurant also has a brunch menu as well. Aside from their main dishes, the restaurant also has an impressive selection of drinks and desserts. The dessert menu boasts rich treats such as Brioche Bread Pudding, Bailey’s Cheesecake, and Chocolate Covered Strawberries (which are served with cinnamon mascarpone cream). As for the drinks, there are the usual selection of Irish and American beers and wine, but there is also an impressive list of whiskey and cocktails. My personal favorites were the Irish Mule and the Irish Old Fashioned. Mrs. Murphy and Son’s Irish Bistro is a great place to dine this winter whether it’s for drinks with friends or a meal with your family. If you like the food at the restaurant, you can also drop by their store that is located at the front of the restaurant to pick up chocolates and sauces for yourself, your loved ones, or as a last minute gift. The Irish Bistro is located at 3905 N. Lincoln Ave. To find out more information about the restaurant and bar, you can check out their website online at irishbistro.com.

Winter Sports Round Up A Season of Transition Written by: Michael Shayler

Tis the season of transition, fa la la la la lalalala. The winter season brings gifts of transition throughout the Chicago sports landscape. So, go-ahead cozy up next to the fireplace with your preferred beverage in hand while you cheer on your favorite Chicago sports team. Here’s a glimpse at what to expect for your favorite team:

White Sox: Big spending during last off-season

didn’t quite result in the outcome Sox fans were hoping for. Will there be a repeat in the big spending of last year? Will the Sox put more of a focus into the future? The off-season activity will reveal a clearer perspective of the team’s intentions. Even with the solid group of core players (Sale, Abreu, Quintana, Eaton, Robertson), the Sox are behind the curve in the tough American League Central. Maybe it’s best to shift the focus to the farm system for the next year or two, but knowing owner Jerry Reinsdorf’s commitment to winning, chances are he won’t take a back seat at a chance of being aggressive once again this off-season. There may be too many holes (biggest needs being outfield and third base) to fill during one off-season, but you can bet that the organization will make a splash or two to help improve the team.

It may be some time before the Sox owner gets to relive this experience. Image courtesy of nydailynews.com

Cubs: With the disappointing finish to the 2015

season still fresh on many the minds of many Cubs fans, GM Theo Epstein and his team of intellects hit the drawing board to determine the right steps in putting the team over the top and into contention for another deep playoff run. David Price is at the top of the wish list. Unfortunately the “price” may be too steep for Cubs to want to get involved with, as it’s said that Price could demand a contract pushing the $200 million range. It’s a safer bet to say that Theo would prefer to spread that spending throughout multiple positions including multiple If he’s not worried, no need for Cubs fans to be Image courtesy of sportsmockery.com starting pitchers (Jordan Zimmerman and/or Jeff Samardzija). The team could also use arms in the bullpen and a replacement in center field for the departed Dexter Fowler. No matter the outcome, Theo will do what’s best for the organization and keep this team in position to succeed. On a side note, at this moment in time, Las Vegas has the Cubs opening the 2016 38 as the favorites to win the World Series. season

Bears: The Bears may not have the record to show, but the

New coach John Fox is getting the most out of his players and has them competing until the end. Image courtesy of wgnradio.com

executing the game plan.

franchise has seen many positive signs during the first half of John Fox‘s first season as Head Coach. With the changes in philosophy on both offense and defense, the team has seemingly adapted relatively quick. Even in defeat, the team has been competitive in every game (except week 3 vs. AZ and week 4 @SEA) until the end. Injuries to key players on both sides of the ball have hurt the Bears chances this season, but the team continues to battle through. Even with the team’s lack of playmakers on defense, the switch to the 3-4 defense has been smoother than expected. With a playoff spot still mathematically obtainable, the Bears will need to play nearly flawless football to achieve that goal. Getting our players 100% healthy could provide a huge boost for a playoff push. If the first half of season was any indication, Fox will have this team ready each and every week, it’s just a matter of going out there and

Bulls:

As with the Bears, the Bulls are undergoing a transition of their own. The years of hard-nosed Coach Thibs basketball are gone as the Bulls shift into more of a high tempo, pass until you find the open man and shoot away offensive scheme under new Coach Fred Hoiberg. As with years past, the team is struggling to find their shots at times. Jimmy Butler is continuing his climb to the top amongst the NBA’s elite players as he is excelling on both ends of the court. At age 38, Pau Gasol continues to impress and produce at a fairly high level. After suffering a broken orbital bone on the first day of practice, D Rose has been a tad inconsistent, but that may also be contributed to the double vision Rose has been suffering from since the injury. Nikola Mirotic, Tony Snell and Doug McDermott have all been progressing nicely as their roles for the team are much more New coach Fred Hoiberg is looking to make the Bulls an offensive juggernaut. Image courtesy of nytimes.com prominent this season. All in all, if the Bulls can get their shots to fall on a more consistent basis in the new system, Cleveland should be the only team ranked higher than them come playoff time.

Blackhawks: Another team, another transition in Chicago. The yearly roster

Let this image serve as reason why “panic” should not be in Hawks fans vocabulary. Image courtesy of hockeygods.com

shuffle for the defending Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks sees a young team get even younger. Coach Quenville has been switching around his lines to find that perfect match. It’s safe to say there is one line that stands out. The line of Patrick Kane, along with new comers Artemi “bread man” Panarin and Artem Anisimov has been the teams go to source for offense. Panarin has the makings of a superstar and could easily be compared to Patrick Kane when it comes to playmaking ability; maybe that‘s why these two seem to have gelled so quickly. A lack of depth on the defensive end is a major concern as is the Hawks inability to win on the road so far. If fans feel any need to hit the panic button, they may not have been paying attention over the past several seasons. As the current dynasty in all of sports this team knows the hard work it takes to succeed and will right the ship sooner rather than later. GM Stan Bowman should find a way to fix the holes on defense and Coach Q and Captain Toews can get this team fully on the same page quick enough. A birth in the playoffs is inevitable and that is when the Hawks are known to turn it on.

As the greatest and most passionate fans in all of sports, it’s our jobs as fans to stand behind our Chicago teams during this “season of transition”. Happy Holidays and may the New Year bring much joy to you and your loved ones.

MAGIC CARPET RIDE In ALBANY PARK Written By: Tareq Al Saud

Traveling around the world didn’t prevent Alibaba from opening his cave in Albany Park. The first and biggest hookah lounge and restaurant is also the oldest in Chicago. It has a great range of diversity and people discovering the cave’s gems and treasures each day. Alibaba’s is a story of one Egyptian immigrant’s successful journey.

Avondale, Irving Park, Ravenswood Manor, North Park and North Center. The ward is rich in diversity with schools, restaurants, businesses, parks and passionate people according to 33rdward.org.

On the west side of Lawrence Avenue in the heart of Mayfair is where an Egyptian immigrant decided to start his adventure. In ten years, he has engaged thousands of customers and played a great role enticing this neighborhood’s beautiful diverse mix. “When I first came to Chicago in 1991, nobody knew what the hookah was,” said Mr. Alex Attia, the founder and the owner of Alibaba Hookah Lounge. Attia made his first hookah and used the wooden clothespins as a charcoal. One day he went by the lake to sit and brought his homemade hookah with him. Six police officers stopped and tried to arrest him because they didn’t know what he was smoking. “I explained how the hookah worked and that it uses tobacco. I told them it’s a cultural thing from Middle East especially Egypt,” said Attia. When the police officers understood, they left him. That was the spark of inspiration that launched Alibaba’s cave in Chicago.

“In 1995, I opened my first hookah lounge called The Pharaohs in Albany Park,” said Attia. During this time, he worked selling cars independently in Chicago. Attia thought there needed to be an open place to gather the immigrants and the people of Chicago. He wanted the place to be unique and special. “People were afraid of using cash to buy used cars, even more so from someone without a dealership. I used The Pharaohs as an office and in the process introduced more people to hookah.” It helped relax them to close a sale. They also became hooked. Attia later opened an Arabic barbershop to inspire more customer's, such as Arabs, to step into the neighborhood. “In 2005 I saw an empty building across from Dunkin Donuts and I told myself that would be a great place for a restaurant and hookah lounge combination,” said Attia. At that time,

Albany Park belongs to the 33rd Ward in Chicago, IL and sits amongst the neighborhoods of

ed to the Arabian Nights in the begi nning. “When I met the owner of the build ing, my little son Ali was with me and whe n the owner asked him about his name he replied: “Ali” and then po inted to me and said this is Baba,” explained Attia.

people were still allowed to smok e in closed areas like restau rants, bars and ca fes. When the City of Chicago prevente d smoking in closed areas in 2008, A tti a had to explore other op tions to still be ab le to serve food with hookah . “My license was to open a smoking shop w ith incidentally fo od,” said Attia. This means that customers ca n bring their food to the lounge while they ar e smoking hookah , according to Atti a. “I took the place next to lounge and moved the kitchen and mad e it take-out food so customers can st ill buy my food.” Alibaba’s Lounge is a vast space w ith more than 3,000 squa re feet including on e big hall and another smal ler room for privat e parties and events. The interior design is inspired by the Middle East culture with a focu s on Egypt. “I did mos t of the decoratin g work with my own hand s as I have cons truction experience,” said Attia. All the furn iture and hookahs are imported directly from Egypt. “You have to treat your cust om er like a friend.” Ironically, the na

me Alibaba was

not relat-

The rich diversity of people within the neighborhood tend to be attracted to A lib aba.“65 to 70 percent of the customers ar e from Poland, Russia an d Ukraine. The ot hers are from Middle Eas t, Asia and South America,” said Attia. Through my expe riences during th ree visits, I noticed there are older customers an d businessmen, bu t also quite a few of students who ha ve projects and as signments to do. The lounge experiences a ru sh in the morning and afte rnoon hours betw een 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m . A second wave of customers fills th e place starting at 7:00 p.m. and again at 10:0 0 p.m. By midnigh t, there is no place to sit es pecially in weeke nds. “Albany Park, sp ecifically along La wrence Avenue has witn essed the failure s of many

businesses and that has made the rents low,” said Attia. But this will not prevent the neighborhood from turning into another downtown for Chicago in the upcoming years. There are more than 5 places now open 24 hours. Aside from being a safe neighborhood, the neighborhood has a great police force, according to Attia. Alibaba Lounge has succeeded in gathering people. Attia not only is offering a service, but is also creating friendships and businesses relationships amongst his lounge customers. The 33rd ward Alderman, Deb Mell, has played an important role in supporting the neighborhood. ”I would like to thank Alderman Deb Mell for her great advice and help to turn Alibaba Lounge and the whole area into the place that we have today,” said Attia. Mustafa, an Egyptian customer spends

weekend hours in Alibaba. ”It is so nice to have a great place like Alibaba here in Chicago, it reminds me of home,” Mustafa said. Thom Olson, a fashion designer and instructor at the Illinois Institute of Art spends his relaxing time at Alibaba. “The place rocks! It also has really opened my eyes to what modern culture in the Middle Eastern region is like. It’s not like what we see on the evening news,” said Olson