Halfstack Fall Music Issue 2014

THE MUSIC ISSUE FEATURING: STARVED HUSTLE & FUE 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS-FALL 2014

MUSIC MUSTS Grammy Camp 52

IN EVERY ISSUE

Top 10 Concerts 59

Editors Letter

Top 10 Albums for Fall

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Meet the Team

60

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LOCAL OPTIONS

Lollapalooza 2014 28

Hebru Brantley 47

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Western Automatic Interview 62

THE SPOTLIGHT Meet Hello Industry 66

GROOMING The Beauty Standard 74

Fall Beauty Roundups

FASHION & LIFESTYLE

76

Men’s Grooming Roundup

Macy’s Glamorama

78

Halfstack Beauty Highlights

83

80

The JIN App

THOUGHTS & OPINIONS

96

WTF

The Great Restaurant

134

178

A Look at Chicago

The Blooming of Sara Rose 138

The Galleria Girl Boutique 148

Where Music Meets Fashion 154

Urban Work in Progress

162

Where’s Jimmy!?

174

FEATURES Meet Zap Props 34

Elizabeth Lyons 90

Feed Photo Gallery 100

North Coast Music Festival 106

184

N’Spired Thoughts 196

EDITORS LAST LOOK Music Must Haves 198

Etsy Shops We Love 202

The Side Show Feature 114

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Fall has arrived readers and with it comes some of my most fondest memories. This is by far my most favorite season. Chicago is a beautiful city in the fall and it’s robust with color, people and sounds. I am so excited to share this time of the year and this issue with all of you.

The fall marks, not only my favorite season, but one of my favorite annual issues: Halfstack’s Annual Music Issue.

This issue we dedicate to all the starving artists, mid-

letter from the editor

night hustlers and creatives trying to make an impact with their craft, music and soul.

This issue is filled to the brim with wonderful features and interviews of local artists, musicians and bands.

Our team of writers and photographers were incredibly fortunate to attend some of the hottest musical festivals, intimate shows and high energy venues. Throughout this issue you will get an insiders view of concerts such as Lolla, AVFest/Hideout Block Party, North Coast Festival and so many more. You will also get a front-row seat at Macy’s Glamorama shot by our talented staff photographer: Perry Fish.

We also had the opportunity to interview some great up and coming stars such as: Elizabeth Lyons from the country music scene, Western Automatic from the alternative scene and Hello Industry from the indie scene.

The main fashion editorial for this issue was shot by the team at Pickapose Photography and features the band:

JENNIFER M. LEZAN-VEGUILLA EDITOR IN CHIEF & FOUNDER

Fue and is outfitted by: Starved. a homemade hustle.

This was by far one of our most creative shoots aside from our Alice themed shoot 2 springs ago. It’s amazing to me that we are going into year 3 of Halfstack and with each year, we push ourselves to the creative limit.

The shoot was inspired by the days of vaudeville and

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sideshows and the band did a great job channeling their

characters. We also had so much fun incorporating themed props from the incredibly vast Zapprops warehouse. You will also find some great fall themed beauty and grooming product round ups from Beauty Editor: Danielle Hazekamp, to help you transition to the cooler weather that is bound to find us here in Chicago.

This issue introduces some new writers to all of you. Feature Editors -Thom Olson and Rob Samu-

Zap Props Feature - pg. 34

elson have been writing on Halfstackmag.com, but are making their debut in the issue this fall. You can check out Rob’s genuine and in-depth feature on the Roger’s Park neighborhood. Thom introduces us to some local entrepreneurs: Sara Rose of Sara Rose on Oak and the team behind Jimmy Bars. He also offers some humorous insight on the newly updated Great Street Restaurant.

The Side Show Feature - pg. 114

Dana Rettig gives us her insight on new music app from Jin and Fashion Editor: Teresa Espinoza highlights local suburban boutique: Galleria Girl. You can also check out her interview with the owner on Halfstack’s Youtube Channel HERE. Also, be sure to check out Culture & Entertainment Editor: Cora Vasseur’s highlights on Chicago’s own artist Hebru Brantley and her thoughts on Grammy Camp. You can check out my feature of Chicago’s own famous prop house: Zap Props.

Hebru Brantley Feature - pg. 47

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. As always, thank you for your support! Don’t forget to keep up with us between issues at: www.halfstackmag.com! Happy Fall Halfstack readers!

JENNIFER M. LEZAN - EDITOR IN CHIEF

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mariana quaranta

jennifer veguilla

eic & creative dir.

co-founder

kate roth

co-founder

@ halfstackmag

@ missmarc40

DIGITAL TEAM

PHOTOGRAPHY

dwight bejec

director of comm.

& social media strategy

cheyenne hendricks

blogger & writer

P erry F ish lead photographer

alluringchicago.com/

HALFSTACK DIGITAL

meet the

teresa espinoza

fashion editor & blogger

cora vasseur

bloggr & online digital editor

team rob samuelson

bloggr & online digital editor

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thom olson

bloggr & online digital editor

KALI KOLLER Graphic Designer & Creative business owner

SAMMY SITHIPONG Creative visionary and Graphic Designer

JAMIE L. BREEDEN Momma, talented photographer & graphic designer

REGULO ALVARAD

Style enthusiast & talented fashion designer

DANIELLE HAZEKAMP Beauty know it all, fashion diva to the max.

RAVEN FISHER Staff Blogger

ANDRE THOMPSON Staff Blogger

STELLA QUIMBY Beauty queen, mommy, fashionista & blogger.

DANA RETTIG Staff Blogger

REYNISHA LINDSAY Inspirational Fashionista

STAFF WRITERS

& DESIGNERS

SHAYLEE EMERT Art Department Intern

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For the First Time, JBO Covers Lollapalooza Lollapalooza was introduced back in 1991,

by Jane’s Addiction front man, Perry Farrell. It is affectionately referred as just, “Lolla.” There were eight stages, including one for youth called, Kidzapalooza. Perry has hopes of making the festival global once again. Many of the bands at Lolla formed in California or the United Kingdom.

The $250 three day pass was available for purchase six months in advance, selling out in less than two hours. Hit refresh, refresh, refresh! There were roughly 300,000 people who attended even President Obama’s daughter, Malia.

All-star Bulls center, Joakim Noah was spotted dancing. Sophia Bush of the TV show, Chicago P.D. was seen about the festival as well.

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It was a comfortable event, there was hardly any shoulder to shoulder bumping in Chicago’s huge Grant Park until you finally exited the park at 10pm. This year the promoters made it simpler to spend hard earned money by giving you an option to link your wristband directly to your credit card for drinks and popular Chicago eats at a row of vendors called, Chow Town.

While the lineup has varied over the years, two things have remained the same: great audio, and acts that will show up on time. Even though not the biggest music festival in world by square feet, it definitely provided a plethora of talent, with over 130 musicians.

We had nice weather for the first two

WRITTEN BY: JASON SHIMBERG OF SUMLUCIDEBEATS LAYOUT BY: KALI KOLLER

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days of events where you could sit on the grass. Sunday it rained and the park looked like a soggy baseball field reminiscent of a scene from Woodstock. The mud-slinging continued long after the rain stopped. Grant Park is situated against Lake Michigan so the passing boats got to listen for free to a great 3-day Fest.

Plenty of people flying in from other States and Countries to see this festival. There was no one harmed too severe in the writing of this article, security had 2014 edition under control. Until the final day when one security guard didn’t check my person and suggested, “Go get drunk!”

CHVRCHES 5:30 – 6:30 A Scottish trio from Glasgow, last year released full length album titled, ‘The Bones of What You Believe.’ The ‘V’ in the band’s name helps in internet searches, they seem to think. Ben Rudolph stated about Chvrches, “They are like watching a heavy hitting synthesized dance. They load up on vocal samples and collapsed drum machines,” Ben went on to say, “Considering the intricacies of their music they must have to play with a backing track or laptop.”

THE F*CK UP.” There was a famous special guest for two songs who was not on original lineup, and was never leaked by sources close to me.

She goes by one name, Rihanna.

She may have caught a flight back to Barbados right after that unexpected pop-in because she was gone before, “Love the Way You Lie,” was finished.

She knocked it out of the park.

SATURDAY HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

LORDE 6:45 – 7:45 Lorde played her two most popular radio hits back to back, “Royals & Team in that order.”

She did not disappoint.

FITZ & THE TANTRUMS 4:15 – 5:15 They praised the promoters several times, exclaiming it was their first time at Lolla. They were very grateful to be invited, they deserve their large following.

EMINEM 8:30 – 10:00 Marshall Mathers posse is smaller. Eminem is sober now, but it does not mean he lost the ability to use expletives, screaming “CHICAGO-WAKE THE

FOSTER THE PEOPLE 6:15 – 7:15 #FTP has received two Grammy nominations, and had a #1 hit in 2011 called, “Pumped Up Kicks.” Always fostering in good material, they were

HIGHLIGHTS ON FRIDAY INCLUDE: IGGY AZALEA 4:30 – 5:30 Iggy was a nice way to get the ball rolling, with her ferocious stage presence and rhythmic sound.

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a big hit with the Midwest crowd.

They took a survey of hands, who was actually from Chicago. A lot of hands went up in the air. If you weren’t from Chicago originally, three days at Lolla can make you feel like you are a native.

THE HEAD AND THE HEART 7:15 – 8:15 Seattle band, which met at an open mic, and built a following from there. Their first album got panned by pitchfork magazine, calling it inauthentic by making references to hard working, blue-collar life. They are a cross between early Wilco and The Shins. A very Indie laidback vibe. They shined as the sun set on the evening.

I split time between Cut/Copy and Outkast as the final headliners of the night made it on stage.

OUTKAST 8:15 – 10:00 The fireworks over the Chicago skyline began as Andre 3000 adorning a blonde

wig was asking for requests. Of course the vote was “Ms. Jackson.”

After the bands near decade long hiatus, they came back stronger than ever. Big Boi posted from his Facebook page, “Stank you Lollapalooza!!”

CUT/COPY 9:00 – 10:00 They can be summed up like this, an Australian male band, dance pop, programming, lots of synthesizers. Tons of fluorescent colors emanating from the stage, very representative of their music. Really explodes, dynamic, fun to watch. They were on one of the smaller stages, ‘The Grove,’ but there sound is very big indeed.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SUNDAY: LONDON GRAMMAR 3:00 – 4:00 Coincidentally, the stagehand organizers put most of the British accents on the same ‘Lake Shore’ stage. Hannah Reid has very strong and soulful

voice. Even emotional at times.

CAGE THE ELEPHANT 4:00 – 5:00 They got very friendly with the audience, combining guitar and crowd surfing simultaneously. They also performed at a Lolla after show before taking the main stage on Sunday. Billy Arkush was there and he had this to say, “I was at the Vic Theatre and lead guitarist, Nick Bockrath walked on stage with a #23 Michael Jordan Bulls jersey, the crowd got amped.” Billy continued, “The energy was unbelievable from start to finish, everything was on point. The chemistry blended so nicely that it sounded like a chorus.” In true, #CTE fashion, at least twenty people got to come on stage and sing with the band.” A Lolla fan’s dream.

REBELUTION 5:45 – 6:45 Rebelution is a band that is on the rise, I was able to procure VIP for myself and

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and cameraman at an after show party at the Bottom Lounge. Rebelution is a reggae band who opened for Matisyahu during a tour stretch last year. They started with same song as the after show, but the rest of the set was mildly different. Although bass player, Marley D. Williams did wear the same exact cut off jersey two days in a row. Perhaps he has a closet full of them. If you really like California surf bands such as Slightly Stoopid and Sublime you will mostly likely dig Rebelution’s sound. Generally reggae influenced bands lyrics are extremely difficult to understand. The listener can understand every word sung by Eric Rachmany’s crystal clear voice.

YOUNG THE GIANT 7:15 – 8:15 Releasing ‘Mind over Matter’ in January of this year, it has moved to the top ten of the music charts. Like most of the sets, it only lasted an hour, the crowd wanted more from this hot band.

SKRILLEX 8:30 – 10:00 I was not able to see Skrillex live, but found someone who knew his fair share.

Jordan Rall said, “Skrillex has an interesting story growing up in Los Angeles and writing a collaboration with then “The Doors” remaining members in 2012 called, Breakn’ a Sweat.

They also produced a documentary together called Re:Generation Music Project.” If you want to know more about Skrillex, watch that documentary on Hulu.

KINGS OF LEON 8:15 – 10:00 I choose to listen to KOL, not based on fast growth and popularity. I liked them when they first started out early in the century. Because I think they are a band that is uniquely expressing a true rock n’ roll family message. I will continue to follow

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them no matter how big they get.

All the songs really hit the mark, and have remained great through time.

One of the top ten bands of the 21st Century in my opinion.

In conclusion, the rain may have deterred some folks on the last night but ponchos work well. It was a somewhat rowdy crowd at times, but mostly it was a peaceful display in my hometown. It was an all you can listen to buffet of music. The audience was given kudos several times by the performers for sticking it out in the rain. It was worse weather last year, most folks said. Now that the cleanup has begun, a big thanks goes out to all the volunteers who picked up crushed beer cans seconds after they were flattened. I even saw a five year old girl putting in some community service with her Dad. Also a spectacle was a clearly pregnant Mother to be, showing off her ninemonth baby bump with a sharpie pen, “My 1st Lolla baby.”

The main exit reminded one of cattle moving inch by inch back to the packed city streets on the ‘Magnificent Mile,’ to catch an Uber car service. Which was running pretty slow, probably because they gave everyone who attended Lolla a free $30 ride

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zap props A Family Affair of The Magically Ordinary WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER LEZAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DWIGHT BEJEC

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Bill got his start in the amusement and coin operated machine business over 30 years ago.

In an unassuming, yet creepy drive off of Loomis Place on the Southside of Chicago, a place where history meets progress, rises multiple post modern manufacturing buildings that have long since been abandoned or repurposed. One building in particular boasts a collection of trinkets, oddities and vintage Americana unlike anything that you will find in the area. Behind this hauntingly beautiful façade of crumbling brick and stone you will find workers packing and unpacking, historians, business people, creatives, designers and the curators of the past. These interesting and inquisitive people are the lifeline behind what Chicagoans know as Zap Props.

Zap Props is a prop and antique warehouse located in Bridgeport run

by Bill Rawksi, Chicago’s own curator of vintage and the key holder of the beautifully mundane. Zap Props is 36,000 square foot warehouse hidden within the confines of walls that are likely as old as the props being stored within them. In order to understand the enormity of it, one must visit to truly understand it. It’s an eerie wonderland where creatives of all industries can get lost in time exploring the vast, never ending shelves filled with treasures of times past.

Bill got his start in the amusement and coin operated machine business over 30 years ago. He was helping his father at the time that ran a route throughout the area and even back then, Bill had an innate business sense and intuition. He saw an opportunity to grow and decided to buy a gumball machine route. As time

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progressed, he became fascinated with the older machines and started collecting them. He was astounded to find that, as he continued to visit flea markets to search for machines, people were actually collecting restored machines. It was at this point that he stumbled upon the fact that people were becoming ever more intrigued with the “Americana” aesthetic.

Over time, his collection grew and he saw an opportunity to take his business in a different direction as the amusement and coin operated industry was starting to die off. He continued to grow his collection and focus on working the antique and prop market. There was a chance opportunity that started with a little film called “A League of their Own” that helped Zap Props become a well-known player in the industry. Bill found his niche, as there were not, and still are not many prop houses of the stature of Zap Props in the city of Chicago. His innate business sense also helped him create a name for himself. Today, some of his biggest business clients come from the restaurant industry throughout the US and abroad. He has even been showcased on shows such as American Pickers.

If there is one thing that Bill understands, it is that networking is an extremely important part of his business. But, no you’re not going to find this blue-collar and down to earth dude rubbing elbows and hobnobbing in some fancy setting.

Rather, this gruff guy has his own special way of connecting with Film Directors, Stylists, Designers and

locals. He is a “what you see is what you get” kind of guy and that’s what truly seems to have helped him succeed. He is nimble on his feet and can adjust with the ebb and flow of the ever-changing business he is in. Yet, he remains humble and grateful about the opportunities he has found. Having worked with the likes of companies such as Rossati’s, Aurelios and The Tilted Kilt, Bill still maintains a humble attitude that speaks volumes about his character.

Despite all his success, he has seen his fair share of hardships and obstacles. When asked about obstacles he has faced in the past, Bill shared that, “while many people enter this business with the idea of a storefront success, many of those shops don’t make it. Overhead can kill a business quick.” Understanding this and experiencing this, he went from having a storefront to focusing on prop rentals and going where the business took him. Bill notes that, “people who work in the antique business are transient and need to be able to follow the trends and historical value to see success”. Bill maintained a mindset throughout his professional life of not being greedy and knowing what his standing was at every point in his career and making solid decisions based on that.

When asked why he chose to grow his business in Chicago, Bill explains that there are many advantages to having an antique and prop business in the Midwest. You can find so many things in the area due to the fact that places like Chicago were manufacturing hotspots. Big businesses like Zenith were based in the

Bill Rawski stands amidst

a wall of vintage steam trunks.

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area and today you can source items in the Midwest easily.

In 1960 there were almost 3 million people just in Chicago.

This gives antique dealers and vintage aficionados a huge opportunity to pick.

When asked how technology has helped or hindered his business, Bill has an interesting viewpoint. “Although the Internet and Ebay essentially have killed off some business, how many dealers do really depends on how they adjust to the changing times�. Technology seems to have helped Bill when it comes to building his network of pickers. He is able

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to stay in constant contact with different dealers and pickers who email and text message him daily images of potential finds. It makes his job a bit easier when one thinks about it.

He can tell just from an image whether or not an item is worth a second look. Rather than having to visit with someone or have someone come in and possibly waste his time, he can instantaneously make a decision.

He also notes that when it comes to success and growth in this business, patience is key. Holding on to an item as a dealer and learning that over time, items will eventually grow

in worth. Making sure you are responsible and pay your taxes is another bit of advice he offers. He also explains that taking pride in ones work is so important. He has educated himself in restoration and bringing the life back into antique items that have seen better days. He is most inspired by neon and signage They are some of the hardest items to take care of. He has made it a point to educate and train his staff to see the value in his stock. Items that a normal person might just consider junk often have the greatest value. When asked what his proudest moment has been,

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Warehouse pup, sheeba,

stands guard over her domain.

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simone rawski

john rawski

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Bill explains, with a glimmer in his eye, that being able to work with the American Sign Museum in Ohio has been invigorating for him.

Signage is a specialty of his. Not only has he curated items for them, but he has also donated out of his personal collection because it is an art form that he feels is dying out due to prohibitive action.

A business that he grew with his own two hands is now a business he shares with his children.

His daughter Simone and his son John work side by side with their father manning the ship that is Zap. They bring a youthful vitality to this business and have just as much passion about their work as their father has. Simone has this innate ability to locate any given item and

find her way through the labyrinth of aisles. She has a keen sense of historical aesthetics and great eye for design. She is also the one working deals, ensuring they remain tech savvy and running their website. Jack on the other hand is skilled at restoration. Bill proudly proclaims that Jack is often the one to help him restore items in stock along with many items such as his old neon signs in his personal collection.

In a business and industry that likely has to face many ups and downs, Bill Rawski has truly established himself as one of the pros.

He can pick out treasures from a pile of junk and pitch a genuinely beautiful concept to a client.

Yet, despite all of his professional

success he maintains a down to earth persona and that is evident in the fact that he highlights it’s the local schools and students that keep him in business. They are the repeat customers that keep coming back and Zap Props is always willing to work within their budgets and give them an opportunity to bring their creative dreams to life; just as he continues to live his dream, going with the flow and experiencing the adventures that the antique world takes him on.

His daughter Simone

and his son John work side by side with

their father manning the ship that is Zap.

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In a business and industry that likely has to face many ups and downs, Bill Rawski has truly established himself as one of the pros.

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Underdog Superhero:

Chicago Artist Hebru Brantley Brings Art to the People written by: Cora Vasseur layout by: jennifer lezan

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When his exhibit “The Watch” was installed May 22nd, 2014, Hebru Brantley’s commitment to bringing art to the masses, people who have never been to a gallery or art museum, was realized. His current show, “Parade Day Rain”, runs at the Cultural Center until September 23rd. The celebrated artist has an inspiring story as well as one to which people in general, not just artists, should aspire.

Brantley grew up on the Southside of Chicago. Like many of us, art saved him. At an early age he channeled his creativity into comic book reading and drawing. He discovered high art when his mother gave him a book on Jean-Michel Basquiat. He cites Basquiat and Keith Haring as influences. Containing characters from the 1980’s and his own creations, his work explores personal and cultural memories and creates conversations about social issues and injustices. He sold shirts with his characters on them, but didn’t get traction in his career until someone bought one of his paintings for a sizeable sum.

Sometimes it takes that one “yes” to ignite the fuse. It’s now legend Jay Z and Beyonce spent $20,000 on one of his paintings at Art Basel. Nicki Minaj owns her own pink Fly Girl. She posed for a picture with it. Lupe Fiasco and Swizz Beatz identify themselves as friends and fans. He has collaborated with Adidas, Nike, Redbull, and Skyy Vodka.

The toast of the Chicago art scene will soon marry model Angela Carroll. Not bad for a self-taught artist.

Brantley was the featured artist for both Chicago Ideas Week and Chicago Artists Month.

He created “The Watch” for Chicago Ideas Week. Featuring his signature characters, Fly Boy and Fly Girl, Brantley got the idea while talking to Chicago public high school students. “The Watch” pays tribute to the Tuskegee airman, a group of black military pilots who fought in World War II. The press release says “[t]hey exist within our current society and their goggles both protect them and give them the confidence to transform into whatever and whoever

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they want to be.” They are both guardians and inhabitants of the city, a feeling to which many Chicagoans can relate. The statues are almost whimsical, but the children are vigilant and won’t be defeated. They evoke many emotions, ranging from hope and inspiration to the reminder of where you came from and why you must keep going.

“The Fly Boys and Girls truly speak to parts of all of us, and give us license to be different, to examine who we are, and to dream about how we might one day change our environments for the better,” said Brantley.

Even the Mayor was excited about partnering with Brantley.

“Expanding access to the arts promotes strong, vibrant neighborhoods, and the City of Chicago is alive with arts activity,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “We are pleased to partner with artists like Chicagoan Hebru Brantley to install thought-provoking pieces of art as part of our broader Cultural Plan to bring the arts directly to residents across the City.”

“The Watch” now resides on the Museum Campus, just north of the Field Museum, facing Lake Shore Drive. They will be there for a year. Unfortunately, they were vandalized at the end of July. They are repaired, but the scars remain. The artist just wanted to share his art and inspire others. The Huffington Post’s “My Chicago” last year asked Brantley with his success, would he leave Chicago? No. “Chicago is my city and I love it,” he told them. “Chicago has taken awhile, but I’ve pried her arms open and now she’s embracing me back.”

She is. More importantly Brantley has provided another option for people of all backgrounds: art. As some aspiring artists will sit in the Art Institute carefully copying the Impressionists, pictures are already being posted online of young people sitting on the floor of Brantley’s new show at the Cultural Center, carefully copying his work, soaking in the world of possibility.

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THE WATCH MUSEUM CAMPUS

50 PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALCHEMY

“

Chicago is my city and I love it.

Chicago has taken awhile, but I’ve

pried her arms open and now she’s embracing me back.

” 51

Off to Grammy Camp

Next Generation Discovers What It Takes to Make It in Music WRITTEN BY: CORA VASSEUR

Chicago is rich in music history and prowess across the genres. It was no surprise when several Chicagoland high school students were selected for the GRAMMY Foundation’s prestigious GRAMMY Camp. In their 10th year of existence, there will be 173 high school students total from across the country and the globe. Some students will be flying in from Japan, China, and England to learn what it takes to make it in today’s music industry.

Think of it as a behind the scenes boot camp (or Hogwarts for music). A typical day at residential camp starts with an intensive in their chosen track and opportunities to collaborate with others. After dinner there are events focused on industry particulars, like marketing, publishing, and internships. All faculty and guest speakers are industry professionals currently working in their area of expertise who can share real life experiences and advice.

The GRAMMY Foundation was established in 1988 to foster the betterment of American recorded music through programs and events that involve music industry professionals with different communities.

“We always wanted to have another vehicle for those high school students who wanted more in-depth information and instruction about the various careers in the business of music,” says David R. Sears, Executive Education Director. “It’s day long music industry career day.”

The GRAMMY camp says camp “brings youth and outstanding artists and music industry professionals together”. These are not artists and professionals you need to Google to learn who they are. Teaching this year are Colbie Callait, The Band Perry, multi GRAMMY Winning recording engineer Al Schmitt, and GRAMMY Winner Harvey Mason, Jr. Former teachers have been Sarah Bareilles, Earth, Wind & Fire, Ryan Seacrest, and Multi GRAMMY Winning producer Mike Elizondo.

“The GRAMMY Foundation’s GRAMMY Camp has become our signature program that provides young people with an extraordinarily in-depth experience, giving them a genuine sense of what it’s like to have a career in the music industry,” said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Foundation.

“Each and every GRAMMY Camper benefits from this program and takes with them valuable lessons learned as they continue their music journeys.”

GRAMMY camp is a one-of-a-kind experience for youth to discover what skills they need to develop to be successful in any business, not just the music business.

Many former students are in college right now. Some have started their own business. Edwin Carranza is a former camper who is making a living as a bass player.

Candidates apply online for one or more of the eight career tracks, which include instrumental performance, vocal performance, audio engineering, music journalism, music business, video production and motion graphics, songwriting and electronic music production. Campers are selected on many factors, but especially two key elements.

“Their willingness to learn how the business works and what they need to do in order to prepare themselves to have the best chance at success in this industry,” says Sears.

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What a great way to discover if this is what you want to do with the rest of your life.

GRAMMY Camp 2015 applications are currently online at www.grammyintheschools.com and the deadline is March 31, 2015. Financial aid is available.

Image on right page: Lauren Craig pitches business idea during GRAMMY Camp L.A. Launch Party

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Music Spotlight: photo gallery HIDEOUT BLOCK PARTY PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PERRY FISH

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DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE

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DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE HAMILTON LEITHAUSER

THE HANDSOME FAMILY

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THINGS TO SEE things to hear fall concerts

The Black Keys Turn Blue World Tour & Cage The Elephant Sun, Sep 28 2014 8:00pm United Center Cage the Elephant will be with The black Keys as they Turn Blue the world. Join them at the United Center Sunday September 28th at *8:00pm.

La Roux Wed, Oct 1, 2014 7:00pm Concord Music Hall Looking for a psychadelic taste of synth-pop? La Roux is here to show you what the 80’s is all about well sort of, don’t miss their show at Concord Music Hall Wed Oct 1st Fleetwood Mac Thu, Oct 2, 2014 8:00pm United Center “Most of these songs were written between 1969 and 1987… Each Song is a love story… They represent my life, the secrets, the broken hearts. These songs are the memories – the 24 karat gold rings in the blue box. These songs are for you.”

–Stevie Nicks Join her and the rest of Fleetwood Mac as they bring you these stories Thursday October 2nd at 8:00pm at the united Center.

Coheed and Cambria & Thank You Scientist Sun, Oct 5, 2014 5:00pm House of Blues Coheed and Cambria recently announced a fall tour across North America where they will perform their landmark 2003 album, “In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth:

3″ from beginning to end. The tour, aptly called Neverender IKSSE:3 – Get ready for a show!

Ryan Adams Thu, Oct 16, 2014 7:30pm The Chicago Theatre Ryan Adams brings us another fascinating classic. As usual, deep, subtle, ironic, haunting, intelligent, and witty.

Skrillex Sat, Oct 18, 2014 TBD Festival Hall A At Navy Pier Be ready to witness thousands of young people dressed in neon-colored costumes, smiling for group photos, and dancing for hours on end, joyfully throwing their arms in the air, it’s difficult to argue Skrillex knows how to put on a show! Set aside Saturday Oct 18th at Navy Pier Festival Hall A for the show, and probably the 19th as well, to recover from the night before.

Bastille Tue, Oct 21, 2014 7:00pm Aragon Join Bastille Tuesday October 21st at the Aragon and be prepared to be taken on a trip through smart lyrics, good harmony vocals and unique hooks – it will be a solid show to remember.

Hozier Sun, Oct 26, 2014 9:00pm Metro Chicago Join Hozier for a night filled with songs full of songs that are achingly full of longing at the Metro Sunday October 26th at 9:00pm.

Ne-Yo Sun, Nov 2, 2014 7:00pm House of Blues Ne-Yo will be at the House of Blues Sunday November 2nd as he brings you a high energy show, featuring his past hits, opportunities to dance and sing along as well!

The 1975 Wed, Nov 5, 2014 7:30pm Aragon Join the newest UK Pop group – The 1975’s at the Aragon Wednesday November 5th at 7:30pm and enjoy a night of their special variant of 80s funk-pop cut with 21st-century R&B Jason Mraz Fri, Nov 7, 2014 8:00pm The Chicago Theatre Join Jason Mraz a the Chicago Theatre Friday November 7th for a night of uplifting positive love.

Bob Dylan Sun, Nov 9, 2014 8:00pm Cadillac Place Be a part of living history, as Bob Dylan comes to Chicago at the Cadillac Place Sunday November 9th at 8:00pm. Enjoy his new music in spite of nostalgia and see why we are still able to watch him perform.

B.O.B. Tue, Nov 11, 2014 7:00pm House of Blues Enjoy a night of Love and beats as B.o.B will be coming to the House of Blues Tuesday November 11.

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TOP 10 FOR FALL ALBUM REVIEWS Keyshia Cole Point Of No Return October 7, 2014 “Point of No Return” is the upcoming sixth studio album

by American singer-songwriter Keyshia Cole. The album comes preceded by the promotional singles “Rick James” featuring Juicy J and “Next Time (Won’t Give My Heart Away)“. She was in the studio with R. Kelly and Scott Storch, and has also confirmed collaborations with Mike WiLL Made It, Birdman, Future and Wale.

Stevie Nicks 24 Karat Gold: Songs From The Vault October 7, 2014 Stevie Nicks will be releasing her solo LP. 24 Karat Gold — Songs from the Vault will see release on October 7th via Warner Bros, though vinyl lovers will be able to pick up a limited edition double LP a week earlier starting September 29th.

Ani DiFranco Allergic to Water October 14, 2014 Ani DiFranco will be releasing her 20th full-length studio album since 1990, The 12-track Allergic was recorded at her Victorian house in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, where DiFranco has lived for more than a decade, and at a larger studio in an old church.

Jessie J Sweet Talker October 14, 2014 Jesse J will be releasing her 3rd album October 14. Kicking off the campaign with worldwide hit Bang Bang - a collaboration with Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj - it’s clear to see that Miss. J is back

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Kele Okereke Trick October 14, 2014 Trick, by Kele, will be released on 13 October, on his 33rd birthday. Expect soulful, old-school soul and modern electronic R&B, with a distinctively British twist.

Ice Cube Everythangs Corrupt October 21, 2014 O’Shea Jackson, aka Ice Cube will be releasing his 10th studio album named Everythangs Corrupt. It was supposed to be released May 13th, but was delayed. Here’s to hoping that the date sticks!

Primus Primus & The Chocolate Factory October 21, 2014 Primus releases their 8th studio album – a tribute to the 1971 musical Willy Wonka & the Choclate Factory. This will be the first album length release from the multi-planet lineup – Lead Les Claypool, Larry Lalonde and Tim “Herb” Alexander.

Ne-Yo Non Fiction November 11, 2014 Ne-Yo’s 6th album will be available November 11th, will feature the Jeezy assisted single “Money Can’t Buy,” as well as the upcoming Juicy J featured, “She Knows“ York, Seattle and Washington, DC.

Foo Fighters Sonic Highways November 10, 2014 The Foo Fighters album will be released on November 10 and is the band’s eighth studio effort. The vinyl release of ‘Sonic Highways’ will come with an assortment of nine different covers including eight themed around one of the cities in which the album was recorded: Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Seattle and Washington, DC.

CONCERT HIGHLIGHTS & ALBUM REVIEWS WRITTEN BY: DWIGHT BEJEC

Eminem Shady XV November 28. 2014 Eminem is set to release ShadyXV on November 24th. It’s set to be a 2 cd collection featuring all of the greatest hits as well as new material.

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Western Automatic

rockstars in disguise

Rockstars in disguise, Western Automatic, live like regular joes – going to work, taking care of kids and dealing with life in general. But at night, when the lights dim, and the beat drops, these local Chicago musicians rock out til the wee hours of the morning. Their sound is a blend of genres that give a definite nod to the likes of Death Cab for Cutie, Band of Horses and the Stones, but has a unique Midwest intimacy. Halfstack had the opportunity to catch up with lead singer Alex Chadwick to learn more about this Chicago based band. Read on for the full interview.

1. Can you tell us a bit more about yourself, how you started and the members of the band?

Well I’ve been playing guitar and singing since I was a teenager, and was lucky enough to have a video on Youtube a few years ago that got a lot of attention (100 Riffs). I’ve been playing with Bob Gilman (drums) and Ben Norsworthy (guitar, backing vocals) since I moved to Chicago in 2010. They played in a band called Westbury at the time and started working as the backing band for my solo material before the band became a more collaborative effort. Dan Silberman (bass, backing vocals) actually owns the studio where we tracked our EP and we really clicked musically. Since he has a great musical background and our previous bass player had left a few months earlier it all just fell in to place.

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INTRO & LAYOUT by: Jennifer veguilla-lezan 2. What inspired you all to form your band and what are you all doing that is different from typical bands in the music industry as of late?

Well I think we would all go crazy if we weren’t playing music in some capacity. I spent a lot of time in cover bands, and while that’s fun in its own way you don’t get the same satisfaction as playing your own material. We try to take a very organic approach to songwriting, and most of our strongest stuff has come from the four of us just playing together until something interesting happens. I’ve found that its a lot more fun to bring an idea to the table and just see where the guys take it, which is a big part of why we decided to start Western Automatic as its own project. I try not to consciously measure ourselves against other bands, we’re just trying to make the best music we can and hopefully somebody out there likes it.

3. Can you tell us a bit about your latest album (inspiration, influences, etc)?

Our recent self-titled EP “Western Automatic” is a collection of five songs we had been working on for about six months. Its our attempt to bring together elements from a few different genres, from contemporary indie and college rock to Motown.

We get our inspiration from a lot of different places, from groups like the Rolling Stones, Band Of Horses, Radiohead, Death Cab For Cutie, My Morning Jacket,

and the Fleet Foxes to name a few. Lyrically I was definitely drawing a lot from my own experiences in relationships and life in general, its a lot of personal stuff distilled for public consumption.

4. What has been the most exciting opportunity for you all as a musician this year?

The best thing for us so far was hearing our song “Gravity” on WXRT. Its one of my favorite stations and it was so much fun to hear them talking about the band and our EP. A close second would be playing the Double Door, which I think is such an iconic room and was such a great experience for us.

5. Can you tell us a bit about how you find inspiration for your songs and what the creative process is like for you?

Usually one of us shows up with a riff or a phrase and we just explore it for a while to see where it goes. If we end up taking it somewhere interesting then we’ll come back to it next time and just let it evolve on its own. I try not to over think the process, everyone finds their space naturally, the melodies just come out and I let the tone of it guide the direction of the lyrics. Pretty much every song we have was written that way, and to be honest every time I’ve tried to force an idea we end up scrapping it eventually anyway.

6. Have you faced any obstacles on your current music journey? If so, how did you overcome them?

Well, we’ve gone through two bass players already before we got Dan so that was frustrating. The biggest thing has been trying to juggle the needs of the band with life in general. We all have full time jobs and I have a 15 month old

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daughter at home, so its tough to find space to fit in things like booking and promotion along with practice and writing. Western Automatic is a priority for all of us though, and thankfully everyone in the group takes it pretty seriously.

7. What is the most fulfilling aspect about being a musician?

Definitely the free beer. And the adoration of possibly dozens of fans.

8. Any upcoming shows this fall/ winter that you would like to share with us?

We have a show that I’m super excited about this September at Quenchers with our friends Queen Buzz, who are one of my favorite bands in Chicago.

They’re a great group of guys and they put on a great show, anyone reading this should definitely check them out.

9. Where can we learn more about you online?

You can check out our website at westernautomatic.com, we are also at facebook.com/westernautomaticmusic as well as reverbnation.com/westernautomaticmusic.

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Well I think we would all go crazy if we weren’t playing music in some capacity. I spent a lot of time in cover bands, and while that’s fun in its own way you don’t get the same satisfaction as playing your own material.

www.westernautomatic.com |download the self titled lp HERE

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Hello Industry

making music for the struggling souls | INTRO by: Jennifer veguilla-lezan Music is the lifeline to the young adult’s journey. We often connect memories, moments, people and places to music. There is this underlying soundtrack to each of our personal journeys. The beat of a drum to an upbeat song that connects us to the vibrant nights of summer or the solemn croons of a tune that got us through a breakup. Music is this ever-present entity that helps to motivate, drive and push us forward throughout our lives.

People often connect with the lyrics of a song; they often will feel as if a song was made just for them. The people behind the music create this connection with their listeners. They create music from personal experiences, some light and beautiful, others dark and sometimes ugly. Yet, it is these experiences that help musicians help others and create meaningful experiences.

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One band in particular, Hello Industry, is on a mission to put meaningful music into the hands of struggling people. They are a breath of fresh air in a sometimes-toxic industry. One that understands that, “the days of record labels funding and sending bands out into the world are gone. [They] believe the new music industry is based on a partnership between the artist and a community of fans and supporters.”

Halfstack had the honor of interviewing Nathan Peterson, lead singer of the band, and asking him some questions about Hello Industry’s journey into music, their inspiration, what they stand for today and what they

are doing this fall. Read on for the full interview.

1.Can you tell us a bit more about yourself, Hello Industry how you started and the members of the band?

The official bio can be found here (http://helloindustry.com), but here’s a less formal one: We started Hi about 15 years ago as a worship band at NIU and played a lot of conferences but eventually we have emerged as a more mainstream rock band. We still do conferences from time to time and we still write about things from the perspective of the Christian faith, but our music is much darker and more open-ended than typical “Christian music”.

Internally, we say our ideal fan is “MaryAnn” - a lost, forgotten, marginalized person who struggles openly with the things the rest of us struggle with in secret. We hope our music comforts MaryAnn - let’s her know that she’s not alone and that she is beautiful. We hope our music shines a light on the real MaryAnn - she is still there, just covered up by a lot of layers and years of pain and false identity.

We hope our music becomes her soundtrack as she fights the battle between giving up - jumping back on the conveyor belt, or becoming the person only she can be. Of course MaryAnn is all of us, if we’re honest. So, we

also hope our music calls out the rest of us to stop pretending.

The band is lead singer and songwriter Nathan Peterson, his wife and keys player Heather Peterson, bass player James Ross, guitar player Brett Ellen, and drummer Bobby Sherman. There are a lot of other people who make up the team, but these are the ones who play the music.

Hello Industry has sort of evaded genre categorization as we sometimes play rock shows in large spaces and other times play black-tie classical concerts in living rooms. We’re also pretty fond of a show we call our “B-SIDES” show, where everything is 100% electronic - vocoders, synth bass, loops and drum loops. We’ve been talking lately about what it would look like to combine all of these elements into one mega-show.

a lot of great music out there with meaningless lyrics and a lot of great lyrics out there with mediocre music attached to it. We spend our lives perfecting both. We’ve taken over a year to finish a song before because we thought it had more to say than it was saying. I know a lot of bands care about their music, but I feel that Hello Industry is a few notches farther on the intensity scale when it comes to lyrically and musically meaningful music.

2. What inspired you all to form Hello industry and what are you all doing that is different from typical bands in the music industry as of late?

We’re primarily inspired by the aching each of us has inside to create art. I think that’s the case for every artist. A secondary motivator is what we use as our mission statement - we make meaningful music for MaryAnn. Besides our wide range of performance styles, something I’ve always found unique about Hello Industry is our commitment to meaning. There’s

IMAGES COURTESY OF HELLO INDUSTRY

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3. Can you tell us a bit about your latest album (inspiration, influences, etc)?

Matter is a good example of what we are doing. It took us four years to make it.

Yet, as a result, every single song on the album excites us like crazy. While our album Fooled was influenced by Coldplay and MaryAnn was sort of influenced

by Muse, I’d say Matter was a little less specifically influenced by any one band.

We did a better job listening to what was inside of us as we wrote and arranged it. So, it’s got more of a voice of its own.

Inspiration-wise, it was definitely my “I’m getting old” record. There are a lot of songs about “what if my life hasn’t mattered” (there’s the title) and questioning the things we value vs. what’s really important. It talks a lot about identity as well, which was the primary focus of MaryAnn. Matter is definitely our favorite album by far. Except for the one we’re writing now. :) 4. What has been the most exciting opportunity for you all as a musician this year?

This year we’ve gone head-first into the world of music videos. We pulled way back from live performing in order to create videos for each of the songs on Matter, as a way to give more power to each song and help tell the story Matter tells more completely. We know nothing about video and have been bootstrapping for each project, so there’s been a lot of experimenting, failing, and learning. I love it! The lessons we’ve

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learned and the new skills we’ve added to our team are going to serve our mission and us for a long time.

5.Can you tell us a bit about how you find inspiration for your songs and what the creative process is like for you?

I’m always learning about my own creative process. Something I’ve been learning lately: I can’t force creativity, but I can avoid it. Because of this, I schedule just 15 minutes to write two times per week - if nothing is happening after 15 minutes of writing, I move on to something else. But I make sure my schedule is empty for a good 1-2 hours following these 15 minutes, so if something starts clicking I have the time to pursue it. I have to constantly remind myself that songs are my output.

For some reason I sometimes feel in a hurry to get to “more important things”, but if I write a song in 1 hour that we use for the rest of our career and which is listened to for thousands of hours by thousands of people, that 1 hour of work outweighs the progress I can make fiddling with our website for a week. Not all work is equal.

After I’ve finished 75% of a song (there are lyrics and at least a verse and chorus), I send the song to James and Heather and they give me their impression. If James likes it, he schedules the band to arrange it and he typically puts it in a live performance as soon as possible. This always freaks me out but it forces us to get some meat on the song and test it in front of real live people. You can’t pretend a sucky song is good if you know you have to play it for people, and you better finish the chorus!

6. Have you faced any obstacles on your current music journey? If so, how did you overcome them?

We’ve faced endless obstacles on our

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O and they tell you lies And

hope you never see inside

- MARYJANE LYRICS

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musical journey! At least, that’s how I’ve seen it. In reality, my “obstacles” are necessary parts of the process. Like a bridge is necessary to get from this cliff to that cliff. The only way I’ve found to overcome obstacles is to work through them. I’m convinced that the battle we fight as creatives is never about the obstacles - it’s about our fear. Success doesn’t come by removing obstacles; it comes by letting go of the fear that will cause us to quit. I’ve personally found that the best way to let go of fear is by setting time aside for quiet, journaling, reflecting on what’s really going on inside of me, admitting my fear and lack of trust in God, the people around me, and biggest of all in my own ability to come through, revisiting my personal mission statement and values, and then in light of all of that deciding what I need to do next and then doing it.

7.What is the most fulfilling aspect about being a musician?

My most euphoric moments are (1) when I first hear the band play back their impression of a song idea I sent them and (2) when I hear the finished, mixed and mastered track or watch a finished video. To see what started as a tiny flicker of an idea in my head fleshed out so beautifully is the most fulfilling and honoring experience I’ve had as a professional.

Another fulfilling moment is when we get a note from a fan telling us about their experience with one of our songs. We’ve literally been told that a song we’ve released has played a role in preventing someone from committing suicide. “Your music saved my life.” That’s the most ridiculous thing in the world. One comment like that is fuel for a year of hard work and rejection!

8. Any upcoming shows this fall/winter that you would like to share with us?

We’re playing a show in September with Derek Webb in Chicago at the Chicago Road Show. There’s more info here: http://lgchicagoroadshow. splashthat.com 9. Where can we learn more about you online?

The usual places. :) helloindustry.com youtube.com/helloindustry twitter.com/helloindustry facebook.com/helloindustry instagram.com/helloindustry

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MUSICIANS MAKEUP & THE BEAUTY STANDARD How Musicians have influenced beauty trends over the last 20 years I truly believe that not only do musicians influence the fashion trends we see, but also have a lot of influence in the makeup industry. It is easy to see the influence when we look back on all the past decades and musicians that have made a name for themselves based on a specific look. I can recall watching VH1 as a child in the 80’s and how popular music videos from artists like Whitney Houston, Debbie Harry, Cyndi Lauper and The Go Go’s all were translated by the people in the world around me. Everyone was wearing crazy colored eye shadow, especially blue with bright pink blush and a bold lip. Most women in the 80’s wore their makeup this way. Don’t judge, but even as a kid, I wore makeup this way for dance and tumbling recitals. Unfortunately, I even have the pictures to prove it.

makeup trends and brands. Whether it is through sponsorships, brand ambassador or spokesperson programs, celebrities and musicians have a huge impact on the products that sell for beauty brands.

Today it seems as if musicians have even more of an influence on makeup brands than in the past. This is due to the influence they have amassed over social media, the Internet and the fact that the consumer looks up to them for trend direction.This all adds up to big dollars for the industry and great consumer interaction. The first ad that I can recall where a musician was representing a brand is MAC’s Viva Glam in 2000 featuring Lil Kim and Mary J. Blige. From that moment on, MAC has had a musician representing their Viva Glam campaign each year.

Some past musicians include: Lady Gaga, Then came the 90’s and grunge. EveryMissy Elliot, Christina Aguilera, Cyndi Lauone was wearing their black eyeliner with per, Elton John, Shirley Manson, Nicki Minaj Chanel’s dark vampy nail polish. This polish and the latest Rihanna. was originally named Rouge Noir and was a best seller for Chanel. To this day Not only has Rihanna been their spokesthis nail polish is still one of the top selling person this year for their Viva Glam campaign, but she has also released many products at the Chanel makeup counter. collection collaborations with MAC. Her Today, musicians are still influencing and most release includes Cool Mauve -

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releasing for their seasonal line this fall. All of the lipsticks from each of the Rihannacollections sold out in minutes online.

Rihanna is not the only artist to have worked with MAC on a limited lipstick, over the past couple of years MAC has collaborated with Haley Williams of Paramore and their latest collaboration is “Pure Heroine” with Lorde. Now, I know I keep mentioning MAC but they aren’t the only brands that has featured musicians in their ads or had musician collaborations.

This is an industry trend that has been holding strong. Even drug store brands like Cover Girl have seen the impact of influence that celebrities and musicians have on consumers.

Over the past few years they have featured musicians such as Queen Latifah, Faith Hill, Taylor Swift, Janelle Monee, PINK, and DJ Duo NERVO to be the face of their brand. Cover Girl’s latest ads are featuring Katy Perry for their new #instaglam collection; the whole collection features bright colored nail polish and bright sparkly lip gloss. Something you can totally see Katy Perry wearing. As time goes on, we are likely to be seeing many more collaborations between musicians and makeup brands.

Writtenby:by: Danielle Hazekamp Written Danielle Hazenkamp LayoutKali by:Koller Kali Koller Layout:

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FALL BEAUTY PRODUCTS 1

Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal Ulta.com // $36.00 I have the tendency to have rosy cheeks and dark circles underneath my eyes. So, I have had my share of trying out different concealers to see what works best for me. This is one of the best concealers I have tried thus far. It covered a huge zit I had on my forehead and the dark circles under my eyes. The best part yet is that it stayed on all day long while I was outside at a family picnic. What more can I say?

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Bioré® Skincare Self Heating One Minute Mask Target // $5.99 I always love a good face mask, however there are the times I just don’t have the time to keep a face mask on.

This facemask only needs to be left on for a minute and within the minute you feel heat and then a nice cooling sensation. Perfect and easy to fit into your skin care regimen 2 to 3 times a week.

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Bioré® Skincare Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser Target // $7.99 I always love a good face mask, however there are the times I just don’t have the time to keep a face mask on.

This facemask only needs to be left on for a minute and within the minute you feel heat and then a nice cooling sensation. Perfect and easy to fit into your skin care regimen 2 to 3 times a week.

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AS REVIEWED BY: DANIELLE HAZEKAMP

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EOS Target // $2.99 When it comes to the fall I love wearing dark fall lipstick colors. However, when wearing lipstick it is key to have well hydrated lips. This is the perfect lip balm to have whether you want you rock the dark fall color or just want well hydrated lips - this lip balm does the trick.

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Ion Color Defense Intense Moisture 1 oz. sallybeauty.com // $2.59 I color my hair a lot and usually I go darker which tends to keep my hair nice and conditioned. Yet, this past summer I decided to go lighter like I used to when I was younger. When I go lighter my hair tends to get a little dry and that is when I do one of these treatments. They come in individual packets and can be used when needed.

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MEN’S GROOMING PRODUCTS Philips Norelco NT9110 Nose and Ear Trimmer amazon.com // $13.95

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Not only does this little trimmer cost less than $20.00, it is a multi-purpose trimmer. Better yet, it is not only for nose and ear hair, it is also perfect to use on trimming your brows. Let’s face it fellas, everyone should have tamed well groomed brows.

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Burt Bee’s Lip Balm walmart.com // $2.97 Most lip balms can leave the lips looking glossy and for some men they just don’t want to look like they have any type of product or gloss on their lips.

This lip balm is perfect as it leaves a more matte like finish on the lips while still moisturizing and conditioning the lips.

Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara target.com // $4.49 As I mentioned, everyone shouldhave tamedbrows and one of the best ways to achieve this is by using clear mascara on their brows. I especially love this one because the brush is nice and little so it is easier to be precise.

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Eurcerin Redness Relief Daily Perfecting Lotion www.ulta.com // $14.99 For some reason we tend to get redness around our nose and on our cheeks, especially during the colder months. For women it is easier for us to cover this up with makeup. For men it isn’t as easy. That is why this lotion is so great; it contains a hint of green, which is a neutralizer for redness. Plus, it is specially formulated for sensitive skin and contains special ingredients to calm the skin.

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Philips Sonicare HX5641/99 Essence Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush Target.com // $59.99 I didn’t think that a toothbrush could change your life until I got this one. I brush extremely rough and struggle to get my teeth white. After one use I could tell the difference in my teeth and the best part is that there is a 2 minute timer to ensure you are brushing for the recommended amount time.

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Halfstack Beauty Highlights Did you know that once you hit 40 that your skin is considered mature? That is crazy to believe considering all of the celebrities out there that are in their 40’s. Some of these celebrities look like their skin is better than mine and I am only 30 years old. You always wonder how they are able to maintain such healthy, vibrant and youthful skin. I can’t be jealous; I just need to know the secret. Recently, I realized that I could have skin that looks just as good if not better I just needed insider tips on how to maintain my skins vibrancy. There are so many self-help books out there from credible sources that help you care for your skin and keep it looking fantastic, even as you mature. Below I’ve highlighted two of which I have had the pleasure of getting my hands on.

As we get older we lose the firmness in our skin. Which, then in turn, makes many people consider medical cosmetic treatments such as Botox or even plastic surgery. However, to me, the thought of someone taking a scalpel to my face, just doesn’t sound like my cup of tea. That is why I think that Facial Gymnastics is the better alternative. Yes, I said facial gymnastics. Get with it readers!

In this book the author highlights how facial gymnastics can help build up the muscles in our face that have lost their elasticity. The best part is that there is a workout for every skin type. There are also exercises listed for specific target areas, as well as for the entire face. One thing that I know for sure is that I will be trying out some of the exercise to keep my skin looking young and recommend this to anyone who wants an alternative to botox and plastic surgery. I’d rather make crazy faces, than crazy decisions.

By: Catherine Pez $19.95 www.amazon.com

Being in the beauty industry, I have always known that what we eat truly does affect our skin. This book definitely validated that this statement is true. By following this 28 day program you can improve premature aging, fine lines and wrinkles, dry skin, poor skin tone and cellulite just to name a few. There are many different topics that this book covers. One in particular is a quick reference guide to skin issues and their specific treatments. Some other topics that are covered in the book include: types of foods that are necessary to achieve beautiful skin. I especially found the “swap this for that” section helpful to make quick changes in my eating habits. It makes it easier to take something that you are already eating and modify or swap out for a healthier alternative.

The best part is that they included a menu for the entire 28 days along with their recipes.

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By: Karen Fischer $24.95 www.amazon.com

Halfstack Beauty Highlights Before & After with PMD

Microdermabrasion is a treatment that estheticians and dermatologist use to gently remove the outer layers of your skin. By removing this outer layer of the skin, the new outer layer will appear to be softer and brighter. Most microdermabrasion treatments can cost hundreds of dollars per a session. Which is why most beauty brands have developed their own type of microdermabrasion that you can do in the comfort of your own home. Some just have products you apply and use a kit,some have a tool with a product.

One option is a PMD, personal microderm, this device uses Aluminium Oxide Crystals and a vacuum suction to smooth away dead skin cells, uncovering younger skin. Using this device once a week will reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots.

I must say that it is a very good idea to watch the video online of the DVD that comes with the device before using. Some good tip I would suggest are: to make sure not to use the device after the gym or a night of drinkingas your skin is extra sensitive. Also be sure to use the training disc first as it isn’t as abrasive as some of the other discs.

After using this for the first time I can tell it is going to take some getting used to, but will be beneficial in the long run. Just with one use I can tell that my skin is softer. I am hoping that after a couple more weeks of using that I will get rid of the lines on my forehead.

Written by: Danielle Hazekamp Written by: Danielle Hazenkamp // Layout: Kali Koller Layout by: Kali Koller

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Macy’s

Glamorama Wriiten

by Perry Fish WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOT BY: PERRY FISH

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if

I were throwing a party, of course I would invite

Jason Derulo. There would be live music, a fashion show, male models in Diesel briefs, confetti falling from the ceiling, a red carpet; hey, a girl can dream. The best part?

It would all be for an amazing cause!

and riled up the crowed for a mesmerizing display of fall fashion!

The evening’s fashion lineup included, Tommy Hilfiger, Weekend MaxMara, Men In Suites, I.N.C International Concepts, Macy’s Impulse, Hello Kitty, Denim Nation, CalOn Friday, August 8th, at Millennium Park’s Harris Theatre, vin Klein, and Diesel. While all of the shows were brilliant, Macy’s put on my ideal party, the party of all parties, especially Diesels display of more than 20 men in boxer Glamorama! This year’s theme, Fashion Rocks, brought briefs, moving about the stage to Queen’s Bohemian style, music, and the people of Chicago together for one Rhapsody, Calvin Klein’s execution was nothing short of special evening. breathtaking. The chic display of chunky knits and tailored jackets in shades of blush and charcoal had me wishing for The event also aimed to raise funds and awareness for a pumpkin spice latte. the Children’s Cancer Research Fund in Minneapolis and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Incorporated into the fashion show was a live performance Northwest Indiana. Within the past 5 years, nearly $1 mil- by Macy’s iHeart Radio Rising Star Winners, Before You lion has been raised for Ronald McDonald House ChariExit. But the main musical event of the evening was the fities, which has funded the ability for families to stay close nale performance of Jason Derulo! While he performed a while their children are treated. modest three-song set, Derulo’s energetic presence made for the highlight of the evening.

To kick off the event, Macy’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Terry Lundgren and RMHC-CNI AmbasHere in Chicago we know no party is complete without an sador Child, Samantha Roberson, introduced the evening after party and boy, did Macy’s deliver! Made possible

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This years theme, fashion rocks, brought style, music, and the people of Chicago together for one special evening.

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by Lagunitas Brewing Company, Vanille, and Stephanie Izard, Macy’s own Culinary Council Chef, the Glamorama after party took place on the Rooftop Terrace at Millennium Park. The theme of Fashion Rocks continued on through rockstar worthy lounges and decorations and rock and roll themed cuisine.

A live DJ kept the dance floor moving all night, but the party also featured a photo booth, a Lancome glamour station, and fair and honest appraisals of appearance by The Bumbys.

That smile is genuine and rewarding, and those eyes are sparkly like a cartoon princess. You dare to do crosswords in PEN, you don’t fuck around.’ Overall Rating: 9.7”.

Even as the party came to a close, dancers from Hello Kitty’s performance and Derulo’s backup dancers were still stomping it out. As I made my way down Michigan Avenue, heading home, I could hear the music fading behind me. My head bobbing to the music as I thought to myself, rock on Chicago. Rock on.

I had never crossed paths with The Bumbys before, but their intimidating, yet comical appearance made me smile.

Even more entertaining was their words and rating of me. “ ‘You’re bubbly and wild. You have a sense of humor, that’s always a plus in just about any human being. You have a truthful and profound connection with your art.

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Glamorama after party

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She’s the All American girl. A gorgeous, sweet and funny young lady with an infectious laugh that is sure to win the hearts of many.

On top of that, the girl can sing. It’s no surprise that The Country Music Association dubbed Elizabeth Lyons an artist to watch this year. Her ITunes chart topping single “Party Rules” has been on the new and noteworthy page and has been bumping in many a country girl’s jeep all summer long. As a Chicago native, she’s a country singer with a city girl heart. Halfstack had the opportunity to meet Elizabeth at The Windy City BBQ and she graciously took some time to complete an interview with us. Read on to learn more about the country music scene’s sweetheart, Elizabeth Lyons.

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IMAGES COURTESY OF ELIZABETH LYONS

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Q&A Can you tell us a bit more about yourself, how you started and what inspired you to chase your country star dreams?

I love to laugh, make people smile and give big hugs! I have been in 18 musical theatre productions. I have always loved singing, dancing, piano and music! My parents said, “Your college education comes before the country star music dream.” They said I could go to Nashville and pursue my country star dreams, but only if I attended college while pursuing the dream. I am thankful for their strong belief in education. I’m proud to say I did it! I pursued my music dream and graduated from Vanderbilt University a year ago. Sometimes I forget I have a degree in film, until someone asks me about movies and then I won’t stop talking about classic Hollywood films or Rom Coms. I’ll decide to make a funny video at Wal-Mart in between a radio interview or boating with my family, just because it’s what I love to do. My sisters and I used to make music videos, which was a very different experience than when I made my first music video. I went from dancing in my sisters’ room to dancing in a field with one of the best directors in country music, Mason Dixon. The best way to celebrate being from the Midwest was doing a tour in the Midwest the day the music video charted #8 on iTunes Country Music Video Charts and #18 on All-Genre.

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loves to meticulously read menus at restaurants and window shop. I’m always on the search for good shoes and anything sparkly, diamonds, cheetah, or leather. I always try and look my best, but my sorority sister and I used to laugh I usually look horrible when I see my crush! I always had a position in my sorority house, but never wore their shirts because I’d rather wear a cute dress. Greek life definitely helped me get my first album (where I co-wrote all 6 songs EP) to chart #42 on iTunes Country Album Charts, All Time Bestsellers Albums Under $8 for months, and #10 on Billboard Heatseekers East North Central. To celebrate, I got some corn bread and made my Rice Krispie treats which are the best!

(I swear a full stick of butter is the key). I made 50 batches for all the radio stations I visited.

Driving over 9,500 miles this summer, I was reminded how much I love to sing to the Spice Girls, Notorious BIG, Dixie Chicks, and Rolling Stones. All the driving was worth it because I got to meet all kinds of people. The song has charted #87 on Media Base and #96 on Music Row. I get super excited about people’s stories and got to interview radio station people, talking about food, love, and music. After interning and learning the business for a few years, I’ve been able to write with great writers like my producer, Matt Nolen, who toured with John Fogerty, and Grammynominated writer, Ryan Tyndell. We all wrote my debut single, “Everything Tonight”, a song about taking a leap of faith into a relationship even though you may have been hurt before or been let down. You have to approach life like, “Here goes nothing and maybe everything tonight”.

My first EP hopefully shows you my personality: enthusiastic (“Go Girl”), likes to have a good time (“Fightin’ Over Me”), serious (“Boston”), funny (“Boys In Every Zip Code”) and the sayings I say all the time (“Forgive & Forget”). I’m lucky to have been able play these songs and share the stage with Phil Vassar, Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Glen Templeton, and Josh Gracin and more!

People question the Midwest for being country.

“Those fly over states” Jason Aldean sings about are some of the top corn producing, agricultural states in the world with some of the best soil, or in the words of Florida Georgia Line, “Dirt”!

Garth Brooks recently announced he will open his tour in Chicago. He has 5 sold out shows. I know country is alive and well in the heartland of America. Country became a part of my heart and soul, spending every childhood summer in Northern Iowa, picking strawberries in my bikini, fishing for cat fish with my Grandpa, and making strawberry jam with my Grandma.

What have you been up to this summer?

While I love the country, I’m also a city girl who Two main things: touring and releasing new

music.

incredibly amazing and gracious everyone I met at CMAFest is!

There was the Country Music Association Festival in Nashville, Tennessee on June 5-8th. I opened Country USA. In high school, I saw Luke Bryan play at Soldier Field, opening for I loved having a booth at CMAFest Fan Fair X Kenny Chesney. He left an impression on me as because it’s four days straight of getting to know a country artist and entertainer. I have always the fans. This year was extra special because dreamed of being the girl version of Luke Bryan: last year I had a booth and met so many amazing have fun, wear jeans tight, dance with heart and people and they came back. They even brought soul. I got to meet Luke and opened for him at me pictures from last year of us together! It Country USA with Joe Nichols, Charlie Worsham was just an incredible week. You realize how and Drew Baldridge. One of my most favorite incredible country fans truly are at a personal moments of the summer was when Luke Bryan level. at Country USA in the middle of his set in front Another honor this year was the CMA also of approximately 30,000 people said, “How recognized me in as WHO NEW TO WATCH IN about that Elizabeth Lyons opening Country 2014 as a top 40 emerging artist. I hope I made/ USA give her a hand!” The fans there were, make them proud! I ended CMAFest weekend again, amazing! I stayed around the day after with my performance on the AT&T U-verse I performed and people were running up to take stage which was epic! I was blown away by selfies while I was eating cheese curds. It was the huge crowd! All my fans from the past two so fun! years came to support me is a testament to how

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I played Milwaukee Summerfest for the second time. I was on a line up with Haley & Michaels, Jacob Martin Band, and Cole Swindell. I played with Cole Swindell before “Chillin’ It” took off and he’s seriously is the nicest person ever and deserves all the success he has received!

I’ve played Joe’s Bar on Weed Street in Chicago three times over the past year. They’ve been so supportive and their staff is incredible. The best! The Windy City Smokeout lineup was so epic. I was with Eli Young Band, Chase Rice, and Blackjack Billy. I’m a huge fan of all three.

Being in my sweet home Chicago was unreal!

I was the only girl on the roster, too. I was so thankful and felt blessed for the opportunity to play such a great event in my hometown. So many family, friends, and fans came!

stories of the fairgrounds! They had the crowd laughing and clapping!

I’m playing the Iowa State Fair on August 11th! My whole family are all graduates of the University of Iowa. Our roots go deep in the state. My Grandma in Iowa wins blue ribbons for her strawberry jam every year! Mom used to be in the dunk tank as a cheerleader back in the day. I’m so incredibly excited to play at the Iowa State Fair on the same stage as Dustin Lynch.

I’m singing the National Anthem at the Cubs Game at Wrigley Field on August 20th! I can’t wait for a Chicago style hot dog! Wrigley is one of my most favorite places in my hometown of Chicago.

I’ve released 2 new songs, “#PartyRules and The Lake County Fair was special because my “Jeep!”!

Great Aunt has worked at the fair for 62 years. I #PartyRules was new and noteworthy on iTunes called her and my Grandma up on stage to tell and both songs charted strong on iTunes!

What has been the most exciting opportunity for you all as a musician this year?

Being recognized by the Country Music Association as WHO NEW TO WATCH this year in 2014 was exciting and was an opportunity to prove them right! Also, the publication Digital Journal writer, Markos Papadatos, wrote an article about my album and video as top 10 of 2013 with some very great company. My schedule was dynamite. It was a dream come true to play with all the artists I’ve played with this summer! After shows, I got to meet the fans and they were posting nonstop. My followers increased, my sales increased! It’s happening! This is real! It’s magical to see how it’s working! Everything I have released has charted. I truly can’t believe the positive response from everyone!

The best part of this music journey is the people!

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What has been the hardest part about being One of my mottos is “work hard and play hard’! a performer?

So I wrote “#PartyRules”. After graduating from Vanderbilt and spending four years in college, I try to live by one of my favorite mottos, “Patience, I worked really hard, but there should also be persistence, and perseverance!” Things take time to have some fun! I wanted to sing abut time! Timing is everything in life! having fun! It’s important to do both!

What is the most fulfilling aspect about being When I sing “barn party out in the sticks”, I a musician? automatically think of my family and I spending I love what I do! I’m so lucky I’m living my dreams!

I’ve loved giving back to people with a smile, an autograph, a song, or a hug. People are so nice.

Regardless if I continue to be successful or not, I hope I have been there for my friends, family and fans and given them inspiration through my music, or my music or me have made them laugh, feel good and given them a hug when they need some love. This is really what brings me the greatest satisfaction. Maybe I can touch someone who really needs me and doesn’t have that person in their life.

every 4th of July on my Aunt and Uncle’s property, the beautiful and peaceful countryside in Minnesota! Think 10,000 Lakes, ducks, geese, hawks, barns, country roads, and horses.

My cousin Elisa posted a picture of a poster listing the “#PartyRules” for a barn party on her Instagram. I took a screenshot of it and I was like, “This idea would make for a killer song!”

This song was New & Noteworthy on iTunes!

Still getting used to seeing my face on iTunes! https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/partyrules/ id885112567?i=885112570

Can you tell us a bit about your latest album What are your goals for this year? (inspiration, influences, etc) Stay positive! Make someone smile every day!

I associate songs with my summers! I remember Give hugs! Build a team! Release a New EP! Kenny Chesney’s “Keg in the Closet” was when my high school baseball team went to State in Sell over 100,000 songs on iTunes (already at the beginning of summer. Taylor Swift’s “Our over 70,000) Song” was the first summer I got my license!

I hope people can put memories to my new Where can we learn more about you online? summer songs! https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/elizabethI wrote my song “Jeep” because most country lyons-ep/id572518758 songs are about trucks. Where I come from, we all rode around in Jeeps! I’ve found sometimes the easiest therapy is to drive around with the windows down and music cranked up! I wanted to create a happy vibe and bring back good memories!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/everythingtonight-single/id649030163 https://itunes.apple.com/us/music-video/ everything-tonight/id659613270 Web: www.elizabethlyonsmusic.com

In High School all my friends, Lizzie, Genny, Facebook: Hillary, Anna, had Jeeps!. My family got a Jeep www.facebook.com/ElizabethLyonsMusic Wrangler a few years after getting my license.

On Friday nights, we’d drive around in Jeeps until we found somewhere to go! I loved chasing down boys, blaring music loud, and driving down Sheridan Road. https://itunes.apple.com/ us/album/jeep!-single/id885645450

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Written By Dana Rettig

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JIN: taking hip hop & technology by a storm with new Maturi App

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J

apanese native, Jin, is not your average producer and musician. He is a game changer who believes in the essence of evolution that will help others become more advanced in their everyday life. After taking the music world by storm, Jin decided to establish something that will change the world of technology forever: create his own app device for the aspiring artists to help display their talent.

Jin’s latest device, MaTuRi, allows the world to come together and enjoy their favorite artists. Although Jin is interested in producing and writing lyrics, Jin is more interested in taking Maturi to another level by promoting the app worldwide.

“We are producing many artists such as my own band, High Speed Boyz,” Jin said. “But right now, I am more interested in taking the technology world to a higher level and to use MaTuRito demonstrate a better

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and more exciting app.”

Less than a month into the app launch, Jin has received excellent response from some the hottest artists in the industry. Jin is elated.

“I am very happy to hear that many websites picked up Maturi and that lots of artists are interested in creating their own MaTuri apps,” Jin shares. “The unprecedented nature of this app system, we believe, will attract many more.”

With Jin’s newest project on display in Japan, he is optimistic that his work of art will take technology to another level in today’s world of ever-changing technology trends.

“I am hoping that MaTuRi will be one of the answers and that many artists understand its capability,” he

explained. “It’s in demo stage in Japan. The Japanese version should be available in the beginning of 2015.”

Now that everything is in order, what is next move to getting people to take notice of his newest project? Jinhopes every artist creates their own free app through MaTuRi and the apps become a bridge between artists and music listeners.

“The ultimate goal, of course, is to fuse the power of humans and technology, always with a thought of the future in mind,” he says.“With that in mind, MaTuRi has more than 10 patent technologies. Not to mention, I am very interested in how to improve the connected speed of iCloud.”

For more information about Jin’s newest app and latest musical project, you can reach Jin on Twitter at Jin_X or go to www.maturisystem.com

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THE FEED Photo Gallery by: Perry Fish

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The Feed stopped by Chicago this past August and the Halfstack team had a chance to watch them perform live. It is no surprise this trio is seeing amazing growth as their eclectic sound connects with audiences of all ages. From young to old - the audience can be seen bopping their heads to their blues infused rock.

THE FEED THE FEED is a three-piece blues/rock/soul group. It is the product of the collaboration of three skillful veterans of the local and national music scene: Dave Grelle (keyboards, vocals), Ben Reece (saxophone, bass guitar, vocals) and Kevin Bowers (drums, vocals).

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PHOTO GALLERY

SHOT BY PERRY FISH North Coast Music Festival is a collaboration of independent promoters in Chicago. The group consists of React Presents, Silver Wrapper, Cold Grums Productions and Metronome Chicago. With this festival the brands have come together to celebrate the merging of all music and walks of life. Halfstacker, Perry Fish, had the opportunity to shoot on site at the 2014 NCMF and bring to you, the readers, an insiders perspective from the photopit.

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LETTUCE PERFORMING

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WASHED OUT PERFORMING

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LITTLE DRAGON PERFORMS

COASTIES ENJOYING THE FEST

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ADVENTURE CLUB

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SNOOP DOG HEADLINED THE FEST

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welcome to the The Side Show FEATURING: FUE AND STARVED HUSTLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PICKAPOSE PHOTOGRAPHY PROPS COURTESY OF: ZAPPROPS.COM COMETICS COURTESY OF: SUGAR BRANDS TSHIRTS BY: STARVED, A HOMEMADE HUSTLE ART DIRECTION, BEAUTY & STYLING BY: JENNIFER M. VEGUILLA-LEZAN

Meet Fue – Indie Band on the Rise Intro & Questions by: Jennifer M. Veguilla-Lezan

Young, fresh and full of energy, the band Fue, is in pursuit of following the American music dream. A band of merry dreamers who aren’t afraid to jump in head first, it is no surprise that Fue has grown such an amazing following. This past year has seen tremendous growth for the band as they released their sophomore album, “Gray Matters”, and embarked on a summer tour. Their growth as artists is evident in the music they are creating and the way they continue to connect with their fans. Fue worked with Halfstack and Starved Hustle for the Fall Issue Editorial and took some time to answer some interview questions post photo shoot.

Read on to learn more about Fue.

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1. Can you tell us a bit more about Fue, how you started and what inspired you to chase your rock star dreams?

Wow. Long story. Going back to our roots, we were just a group of guys (and a girl) that didn’t have much in mind about what our future would look like. We just knew we loved playing music and had a far off dream of touring someday. We started the journey in 2009, made an EP, had a band member change, and by 2011, started full pursuit of being full-time musicians. Inspiration came from musicians we grew up watching and listening to. I think the biggest inspiration in our career has been close family and friends that supported us from day one.

2. What have you all been up to since we last featured you a year ago?

A lot. In the past year, we released our first Christmas EP, “Winter’s Eve”, recorded our sophomore album, “Gray Matters”, partnered with Infinity Distribution for the album’s digital release, and have been hitting the road all around the Midwest. Most recently we released a music video for the lead single off “Gray Matters”. The song is called “Go On”.

FUE // Go On (Official Music Video) - https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gUGvGdaZY5Q

3. What has been the most exciting opportunity for you all as a band this year?

FUE 116 BAND WEARING STARVED, A HOMEMADE HUSTLE

We were featured on NoiseTrade (noisetrade. com) as a highlighted artist of the week that was sent out to their 4 million plus email database. We’ve had amazing feedback from people all over the country, which has been humbling and rewarding to receive.

haven’t personally experienced, because I want the music to come from a very honest and authentic place, so I write from what I know. The past couple of years have been very challenging personally and there’s been a lot of loss and pain and so these songs were created to try and make sense of it all. Once I have 4. Can you tell us a bit about a basic idea for a song and how you find inspiration for a basic structure with chord your songs and what the creative process is like for you progressions, I bring the song to the guys and we start to all collectively as a band? dissect the song to identify Joanna: Put simply, life. Most strengths and weaknesses and of the time the song is birthed work together to polish it off. out of a life experience that I’m processing. I don’t like 5. What has been the hardest to write from places that I part about being a part of a

band?

Tension. Not to say that it’s all bad. It has the benefit of bringing us closer together.

But anytime you have multiple people with multiple opinions, and you put them in time sensitive scenarios, you learn to work together, even though it’s tough. Living in the tension has been a healthy place to grow and has been the cornerstone for pushing us further than we ever have before in creating meaningful art.

6. What is the most fulfilling aspect about being a musician?

Enjoying the freedom to express emotions through

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artistic composition. We all have the amazing privilege to bring our ideas to the table and create a piece of art, and not just random strokes of paint on a canvass, but a craft that tells a story, and is relatable to an audience. Along with that, hearing how our music has affected and inspired our listeners. Most of the time we never hear from our listeners, but there’s been instances when someone will come up to us or send us an email or something expressing how much a song impacted their life and we’re so grateful that something we poured our heart into affected someone as much as the experience that led us to write the song. It’s a pretty cool feeling.

7. Can you tell us a bit about your latest albums (inspiration, influences, etc) Our latest record, “Gray Matters”, was influenced

by artists such as Kye Kye, Andrew Belle, and Lorde. The album was all about exploring new territory as a band and departing from the piano and guitar driven sound of our previous releases.

On a deeper level, the album is a collection of songs that were written out of personal events in our lives over the past couple of years, making it our most intimate release. The concept of “Gray Matters” resonates with the idea that we all have questions that need answering and feelings of hopelessness at times in life when things just don’t make sense. So our hope is that whoever hears these songs will be able to

The concept of “Gray Matters” resonates with the idea that weallhave questions that need answering

relate with them because we all go through times of shaking in our lives and it’s comforting to know that we are not alone.

Not everything has a clean cut answer, life is full of pain and tension, but hope and love are weaved throughout it all and worth fighting for.

8. What are your goals for this year?

To continue to connect with people, whether that’s at a show or on social media. It’s all about connecting and interacting with people. Without them our music doesn’t go very far.

9. Where can we learn more about FUE?

Our website, fueband.com, is the easiest way to connect with us. All our social media links are on there as well. We’d be honored to have a chance to connect with all of you!

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MEET STARVED-A HOMEMADE HUSTLE following a dream Following a dream can be tough. No matter how much love, effort and energy you put into a project or business, success is never guaranteed. Millenials today have to be shrewd and innovative business people in an oversaturated market. Fashion lines come and go, but it is the ones with heart and fortitude that last. Chicago has a slew of creative individuals making a name for themselves and the team behind Starved: A Homemade Hustle, is no doubt, one to watch.

Launched by the creative duo behind Pickapose Photography, Starved is run by Laura Lopez and Shirin Koril. These two are no stranger to the fashion industry. Best known as photographers, these young ladies saw an opportunity to expand on their skills and launched a line catering to other “starving artists�.

Starved. a homemade hustle was created for all the crazy talented and passionate people that they know. They cater to the artists that believe in their vision and their work so much that they are willing to look beyond fear, break rules, never sleep, go broke and take risks in120order to create a fulfilling life.

Their brand is dedicated to the dreamers that are at times discouraged, frustrated and exhausted, but who stay committed. To the artists that stay hungry. The product line is filled to the brim with impeccably designed graphic tees for men and women, the occasional body suit and crop top. Their product is a modern version tongue in chic controversy mixed with inspiring and motivating quotes and imagery. Laura and Shirin worked with Halfstack and Fue on the Fall Issue’s main editorial featuring their Fall product line and working their camera skills. They also took the time to answer some questions. Read on to learn more about Starved.

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1. Can you tell us about why you decided to launch Starved?

We (Shirin and Laura) had talked back and forth for so long about making t-shirts.

We love art and we love Chicago. So, we kind of came up with designs that focused on different art forms and paid a little bit of homage to our city.

2. Who do you create for?

Starved. a homemade hustle was created for all the crazy talented and passionate people that we know.

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For the artists that believe in their vision and their work so much that they are willing to look beyond fear, break rules, never sleep, go broke and take risks in order to create a fulfilling life. For the dreamers that are some days discouraged, and frustrated and exhausted but stay committed. For the artists that stay hungry.

3. Where do you draw your inspiration from for the line?

We are inspired by so much.

We are consistently inspired by the city we live in (that is

so underrated in terms of its artistic contribution). We are inspired, daily, by the diverse artists within our own creative circle. So many of our designs include our photography, we have collaborated with graffiti artists, we aren’t afraid of a little edge, we like to incorporate iconic images of pop culture.

And we always want our message to be the same. Love what you do, hustle hard, build a name. And Create.

4.What is your creative process like, what goes into creating your product?

Our creative process usually starts out with either an image

or a saying that we build a design from and once we have a general idea we create 2-3 versions of it and pick elements from each one that we like until we can finalize the design.

5. Have you faced any obstacles on your creative journey?

The hardest part about our creative journey is that it just never stops. You are always going. There isn’t the luxury of having a 9-5 and punching out when the day is over. You are always working. Yet, even though we get exhausted, we would never want an ordinary life. We could not picture our life without art and photography and creative adventures.

8. Any tips of pieces of advice for people wanting to follow their dreams?

Don’t ever settle for a life that leaves you unfulfilled. Take risks.

Dream big. Make things happen.

Work hard. Talk to everyone. Create a life.

9. Where can we learn more about starved?

You can find out more about starved. a homemade hustle at www.starvedhustle.com

6. What has been the most rewarding part of your journey?

The most rewarding part of our journey is when we get to see our vision be brought to life. To see the way something started, to know the story about it, and see a finished product. It really is a labor of love. We absolutely love what we do and we are fortunate enough that we are surrounded by people that support the vision..

7. What are your goals for the line?

We would love to see Starved everywhere. We would love to see our product in Chicago boutiques and on every artist in the city. We just really want to build a following of dreamers and passionate people.

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GET THE LOOK: SUGAR GET THE LOOK: SUGAR SWEET CHEEKS COLOR SWEET CHEEKS COLOR STICK - JUST PINCHED STICK - JUST PINCHED

SUGAR SUGARMAGIC MAGIC PLUSH PLUSH FIBER MASCARA FIBER MASCARA SUGAR FACE SUGARALL ALLOVER OVER FACE PALETTE && GLITTER PALLETTE GLITTER LIQUIDLINER LINER LIQUID

Joanna Rutzky - Vocals 126

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Isaac Flex - Bass 128

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Tim May - Guitar

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Aaron May - Drums 133

The Snake Burglar…otherwise known as Rita Ora

Photo by Gotcha Images Is this the newest Spiderman villain? I thought that a snake/lizard dude was already used? Maybe the film is trying to save some bucks? Rita Ora is channeling her inner lizard/snake/dinosaur/burglar self in public.

What I don’t get is the pink ski mask! Isn’t it summer? Is she trying to sweat out her outer layer of skin? Whatever the case may be, let’s just start hoping that all the teeny boopers don’t start copying her style. Or else, the police will be preoccupied with arresting wanna-be lizard burglars instead of chillaxing and eating their doughnuts.

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__ layout by Sarah Gaynor

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By: Stella Quimby

An Examination of Star’s Modas.

Is Steven Tyler changing his profession? The next time that I do a downward dog, will I catch a glimpse of Mr. Tyler chanting in the corner? Shouldn’t this man be a rock star and not run for the next Guru of India? Gosh, I haven’t been this confused since Britney and Justin broke up!

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YOGI MASTER Steven Tyler

_____________ _______ Photo by Tony Reed/Splash News

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NOT so Pretty in PinkRihanna

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Photo by SPW/Splash News

I can understand loving a John Hughes film so much that you want to copy some of the styles featured in the iconic films. But news flash, it was the 80’s and we are in the new Millenium Riri. So, umm, yes that look does in fact make you look like a psycho lost in time. Take off that hair (oh, boy I hope it’s a wig) and giant plastic pink bag and rock the stylish clothing that you can afford my dear. You are rich and the resources to look fabulous are at your disposal. Stop trying to look like an 80’s serial killer and start looking like a Caribbean star.

Justin (please let’s deport him) Bieber

Pamela in the Wrong Decade Anderson

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Photo by FlameFlynet WTF….WTF am I looking at? Is Pamela trying to be a slutty version of the matronly ladies going to lunch in the 1950’s? Or is she really confused about what decades of clothing she is utilizing to representing each body part. The chest area is definitely a modern twist on the bustier due to the fakeness and exposure that reaks of her sluttiness. The skirt is a throwback to the 50’s while the socks and shoes are the reminscent 80’s. Whoever her stylist is, should be burned at the fashion stake. Nuff said.

Photo by Getty Images I have to end with the Biebs; not just because we need to knock him off his self imposed fashion pedestal of thinking he honestly looks good, but because he really just doesn’t. For example, in this picture; is a key example of his fashion confusion. Is he wearing a suit AND going for an equestrian ride? Or is he trying to be a little “British?” If that’s the case, then can we send his ass to England? I dunno about you all, but a little less Bieber in this country will do us some good. He has already damaged the minds of thousands upon thousands of little girls in this country.

We might as well put an end to this agony now.

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The blooming

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g of Sararose

Written by: Thom Olson Visit Sara Rose online: http://sararoseonoak.com

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Sararose

C

hicago ranks as kind of an interesting spot in the history of fashion. It’s not exactly a style less backwater. Marshall Field was one of the first to make Paris couture and designer garments accessible to the masses. Charles James’s childhood roots are tied to Chicago. Halston was a student of the School of the Art Institute.True, Chicago doesn’t have a fashion week. Trust me, it’s a bummer,but it is no slouch either way.

So, who are the new names of Chicago fashion? Yeah – Maria Pinto. That’s an easy guess as she has been around for some time and has popped back up after a Kickstarter investment. Boris Powell, whois a dishy and handsomedesigner and has been on the scene for about 8 years,also comes to mind. Yet, there is another person whose name keeps percolating to the top — Sara Rose Krenger. Her line Stixs and Roses fills a niche where only a few have tread, but many would like to be a part of. She sits comfortably in a balance between fashion and anti-fashion. Her work is not “out there” or“conceptual”, nor is it “groundbreaking”. She is not Comme Des Garcons’sReiKawakubo, Issey Miyake, Yohi Yamamoto or Vivienne Westwood.

Her work is more likely to connect with the every day consumer. Yet, it is important to note, that she is VERY similar to those aforementioned designers in their philosophy of social consciousness. She is breaking new ground from that sense;virtually trailblazing as many design companies are starting to forge the ground of sustainability. It is similar to anti-fashion in the sense that the wearer doesn’t care about fashion, as much as they have higher priorities in mind like the world and it’s environment. Her fashion priorities center around economy, function, usability and having a garment that is sustainably made without creating an impact that lasts forever on the environment.

The fashion industry works hard to make instant fashion a reality to get the consumer to buy more. Sara Rose is a designer who is about buying less. Stores

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like Zara and H&M build clothingwith the idea that the garment will be worn for a couple of seasons and then be discarded— planned obsolescence. Their shoppers want the latest trend and are those people who constantlyare actively searching out the next trend. The instant fashion shopper looks to the designer to be constantly developing new ideas to fill the insatiable appetite for something new and to fill the void of what they don’t have. These stores turn over the merchandise quickly like finely turned machines. In the case of Zara, the concept to sales floor manufacturing cycle can take as little as three weeks where others take a year and a half.

The trend ideas get refined with sale information providing the background information on what the shoppers are looking for. A pair of cranberry red skinny jeans may change in color to a brighter fire engine red before they go into a softer coral red. The jeans may then morph into a raspberry red if the trends and social media seem to point in that direction. These tweaks of color change incrementally to match shopper profiles and are projected to increase sales. Much of how the store is merchandised is directed toward the market that goes for the impulse buy. If the buyer doesn’t buy, the garment is a flop and is put on clearance quickly so a new concept can be brought in to inspire a shopper to crank open their wallet.

Sustainable or long-rangeideas Sustainability is not a factor in the equation of fashion – or hasn’t been. Only lately it has been in forefront of company’s minds as the result of economy causing people to respond and rethink how they buy. As consumers tighten their wallets from the downturn, there is more thought put into the economy of the garment. These thoughts started to develop from the standpoint of the economy of fabric and cutting out multiple garments that waste less fabric. A typical factory may have 85% usage, but that translates into 15% waste. Some retailers demand 92% usage from the manufacturer as a means of controlling costs. The

focus point comes to the fibers and materials of the garment itself. A great example of this is cotton:it is horrible on the environment as it sucks up water and requires enormous amounts of pesticides to produce the final product. Cotton accounts for roughly 24% of the world’s insecticide market and 11% of the sale of global pesticides.It can take up to 2,900 liters of water

mately 70lbs per person.

to product a T-shirt. 70% of all water usedglobally is in the form of irrigation. In 2008, 2,890 billion litres of water was used in Pakistan to grow the cotton needed just to make products sold by Ikea – equivalent to the volume of drinking water consumed in Sweden over 176 years.Unrecycled clothing amounts about 5% of landfills use with Americans throwing out approxi-

getting a consumer to buy. Sometimes the economics play into the idea of paying less to the manufacturer so profit margins are the same or keeping a garment within a certain price point enticing consumers to buy it. Not buying, however, is not in question.

Some companies are experimenting with recycled cotton. Much like recycled paper; cotton can be used in a variety of ways. Sometimes this is in the form of pre-consumer and other times, post-consumer waste.

Yet, it is important to note that fashion still is about

Enter Sara Rose

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Her clothing designs focus on aphilosophythat starts with the ideals of need and function. Part stylist, part designer, part manufacturer and 100% entrepreneur make up the whole of Sarah Rose. Sara Rose clients are mindful about looking good and also cognizant about keeping a wardrobe that is practical, cost efficient and has longevity. They are, as she puts it,“similar to myself. They are professional women. They are extremely busy and extremely stylish. They care less about trend and are more concerned about style.

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Theywantto do more with less.They are often times vegan or vegetarian by choice and a little bit quirky, much like myself. ” True to herself, she has learned to do more with less.

Her former store and workroom was over 2000 square feet with half devoted to manufacturing. It was located on the Northwest side of Chicago. It was a large space but as she puts it “not exactly convenient or easy to shop at. It wasn’t unusual to have my

nowhas changed that cycle as well. “My collections reflect the needs of my clients and I center around what they need. Their needs dictate what I put in a collection and also my timeline. When I have a have a majority of my clients having the same wardrobe challenges, it guides me to put in what is essential and I react to it. Now, I turn out about a collection and a half or two collections a year.”

A stylist’s approach Clients let her tread onsacred ground — their closets.

“It really starts with a lot of trust. My clients trust me to give them really honest advice and not steer them into making purchases they don’t need. We work together to an end result that will make them happy, confident and work within their budget. I tell my clients I can be as tactful or as blunt as they can take. I ask a lot of questions and everything gets tried on to see how it fits or doesn’t fit. Then we purge.What doesn’t work gets reworked, refitted, restyled, or simply donated to someone who can use it.”

customers parkingtheirBentleys in the funeral parlor parking lot next door.”

Her new space on Oak Street – while there is no parking — is a much more tiny and affluent neighborhood.

Across the street from Tom Ford and Carolina Herrera, her new location is half the size, but is anefficient and economical use of space. Where she used to show at New York fashion week and was on a fashion circuit train of churning outcollection after collection, she

No — she doesn’t hold back. She is firm, forceful and opinionated… and she is correct on her styling advice and guidance. “If something doesn’t work, some of them know by the look on my face. Others, I just ask,“what break up inspired this purchase?” Or “what was going on in your life when this showed up into your wardrobe?” She sits down and spends a lot of time going through every aspect of a person’s wardrobe — their daywear, evening wear, underwear, bras, lingerie and foundations and make-up. After an assessment and shedding of what doesn’t work, she gives them an idea of what works. She shows them how to channel and focus on what styles suits them and what works with their body proportion. They come away with an understanding of who/what they represent and how they look to the outside world. It is easier to dress, take style decisions and stay on a path. This focus point also gives the client the confidence to know where sheis going to take them and ensures they are on the same page. She pulls together a style board.

Once that is agreed on, she builds off of that.

Oneexampleof a client she describes as her “Jane Goodall — anthropologist and primatologist. The look is holistic, natural, business like but casual. It is a look that is easy to go from inside to out without a lot of fuss.

It is a wardrobe that is easy to travel with, pack and on the go at a moments notice. It is a consistent and

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Sararose cohesive in who it represents to the outside world and is not a buckshot of clothing styles.” In most cases, she pulls together a needs checklist and scours the city for things that work within the constraints. If she can’t find the things that work or fill the niche, she makes them up custom. She works locally and virtually with many of her clients as they are trotting around the globe. She keeps a roster of her client’s sizes and measurements.

If necessary, she makes, styles, purchases and then alters and ships to the client’s location. “These are extremely busy women who need someone to look out for them and help keep them pulled together as they don’t have time.

cut.”Her philosophy is simple: to be efficient with what you have and do more with less. It is about being cost efficient and wardrobe efficient. All pieces have to contribute to the whole. “I am not a designer who believes you have to have a new silhouette each season.I am not a designer who feels the need to turnout a collection for the sake of turning out a collection by a certain date. My clientsdon’t run like that and neither do I. I am fine with small. I don’t need to produce. I have no desire to be in 1000 stores around the world. It goes against my sustainability philosophy and my clients respect that. I am happy being small but that said, I do a lot of custom work.”

Some email their itinerary and let her know what they True to her values, her fabrics are sustainable. She is will need so she can look for things as sheis out and picky about what she sews on. Like Halston who rallied about or at fashion week. “If things are a particularly around Ultrasuede, Sara Rose is the torchbearer and good deal, I email them, have the store put it aside poster child for bamboo. She has gotten the moniker for them or at times just pick it up because I know it of being the“bamboo chick”. Bamboo was used for is exactly what they are looking for and deliver it to years to make boning for corsets and bustles. It was a them.”Many clients she sits down with every season. component for viscose rayon but now with technoloOthers she sees only when they are going through a gy, it is possible to make clothing out of 100% bamboo. series of life events like a wedding. She does about 8 Bamboo fibers are processed in ways similar to flax or weddings a year where sheis in charge of doing every- hemp to make linen. Bamboo as a fiber is extremely thing. “I try to cap it at eight as I can get burned out durable — more than polyester or cotton. It has good on them.”She does all the bridesmaid dresses herself wicking properties/moisture absorbing properties an(no less than 5) but shies away from doing the bride’s dis ecofriendly.Like grass, it is able to regenerate after dress. “They are tedious works of perfection working cutting without the need to replant. Her latest fabricwith lace, beading and embroidery. My talents are best find is that of a bamboo twill that has the look, feel and used elsewhere.” drape of silk.

Working with a person’s wardrobe cantake a bit of time. Some clients she sees in one fell swoop. “Others I have to be ginger with and go over it in small amounts.

When I feel they have reached their threshold, we schedule an appointment after a time of reflection.”

Sometimes the appointments turn into a purge session with other times they center more around repurposing.

“I had one client who had 5 dresses still with tags on.

They had never been worn. She didn’t have a use for dresses, as they were not necessary in her wardrobe.

We cut them all down into blouses.It was something she could use. We focus on need, which is why we

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“There are not a lot of manufactures working with bamboo. It is not an easy fiber to work with. It has a tendency to curl along the edges when it is cut making it difficult to sew. It has veryhigh moisture content. It is clingy and expands like denim.” Sara Rose does not use fusibles in the construction of her garments. It is a chemical issue as well as a softness issue. She uses self-fabric or something lighter for facings and interlinings. Fusibles can give a board-like quality to fabric and can bubble if not applied well thus killing the garments appearance.

Entrepreneurial Heritage What makes Sara Rose a trailblazer is in her blood.

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Sararose She comes from a line of entrepreneurial individuals that have carved a niche for themselves. Sara Rose’s grandfather John R. Krengerowns KrengerReal Estate — an apartment rental company that holds over 400 apartments on the Chicago’sNorthside. Krenger runs apartment buildings from Lincoln Park, Boystown/ Cubs Park to Rogers Park and everywhere in between.

The company also has commercial space and industrial buildings up to 20,000 square feet. It has been in business for almost 50 years.

Sara’s father John Jr.(also called Jack)broke away from the family business and founded his own construction company. Rock and Wall Construction is an award winning construction firm that develops both residential and commercial properties but also handles green construction. They received the Margery Perkins Award for green construction and design for a property in Evanston.They have worked on landmark properties like the Wrigley Mansion and the Marshall Field Mansion.Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, AIA, Chicago Magazine and the Chicago Tribune.

It is no wonder Sara Rose is concerned about sustainability. She is also vegetarian“within limits —it’s hard to be vegetarian and a guest be at a dinner party. In my normal day-to-day routine, it is very easy for me.”

The lifestyle philosophy extends to the line of cosmetic products she carries in her storeis not tested on animals and works well on many skin types and shades.

What’s the design guru’s advice?

What does a woman wear on a first date?

“Depends on the date and the guy. A typical first date in someplace like Wrigleyville does not require a dress.It does require some prep. A simple pair of skinny jeans and a sexy top is all that is necessary. The top needs to be sexy and the outfit needs to show off your curves and womanly assetts. A first date is about body and personality. Do NOT wear lots of blingy jewelry. That should be saved for a girl’s night out. If a guy sees too much bling on the first date, he thinks that is all you care about. If the date is downtown, it requires more of a flirty dress. The overall look should be carefree, simple and sexy. It shouldn’t look overdone but let your

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assets and personality shine through.”

Do you have any cool wardrobe tips?

“Start by working within the closet. The easiest thing to do is to rework old things that are favorites and make them new again. An alterations person can be your best friend. Make sure clothing fits and don’t buy something that doesn’t fit. If something needs some alterations, get it done immediately and don’t hang it back in your closet until it’s ready. Invest in a good pencil skirt and a stunning but simple sheath. Both of these get a lot of mileage and will go along way to adding dimension to a wardrobe. Many people are afraid of mixing expensive with inexpensive garments. Don’t’ be afraid of mixing Anne Taylor clothes with a garment from Neiman Marcus. Some designers are masters of clean. Michael Kors is one of them — he is my go-to guy when I do styling. He knows how to work with curves and his lines follow the body.”

What can we expect to see in your next collection?

“There will, of course, be bamboo. Always black and I like to use a pop of color. I have this vision of a dress that came to me in a dream. It has embellishment that simulates jewelry. It is a bit sari-like and a little similar to some pieces of Dolce and Gabanna’s Fall 2013 collection minus the religion. My clients will like it as it will travel well.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DWIGHT BEJEC

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Boutiques are found all over the city of Chicago today. They’re a go to place for

women who want something special and want a more personal shopping experience.

It’s tough, however, to find a fashion savvy boutique in the suburbs. In our summer issue, we were lucky enough to find a boutique that was located in Naperville that was really special, Galleria Girl! Unlike, any other boutique in the city and suburbs, Galleria Girl concentrates on bringing shoppers a unique personal shopping experience and featuring items you won’t find anywhere else. Best of all, it’s found in a very unique shopping space: a lighting and home accents store!

Galleria Girl was named one of our top 10 boutiques in Chicago and suburbs this summer issue. We had the opportunity to sit down with owner, Laurie Bachleda, and talk about everything that Galleria Girl is, where the inspiration for the boutique came from, and even trends for fall!

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HM: Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself, Galleria Girl, and why you decided to open it up?

LB: We’ve had a home and lighting store in Naperville for 22 years and we were looking for some other type of product mix to bring into the store. We looked at a lot of different things. Our passion was always fashion, so we started bringing in jewelry and purses first. Our clientele would say how great and affordable these things were and how we should expand and do more. So we thought “Why not?”

It was definitely a different thought to bring clothing into a retail store that already sold lighting and home furnishings. It was actually a perfect match! Women were coming in and looking at pretty things for their homes and then would look at the clothing. It was about a year and a half ago that my daughter and I went to our first market. We went to Las Vegas. We thought about our customer, who ranges from 20-70 years old. We wanted things that were, of course, price conscious and things that we could wear with multiple outfits. We started with a small space and eventually it kept expanding to where it is today.

HM: Can you tell us a bit about what our readers might find here if they were to walk into the boutique?

LB: You can find things here that you could see yourself wearing from day to night.

Items you could wear taking your kids to school, going out to lunch with your girlfriends, or even for work. Take that and add another piece, like a jacket, to make it good for nighttime. We have items that are very versatile and are really fun, but not too formal. We like to call it “Street Chic Fashions”. We carry leggings that

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would complement any outfit and scarves that you can throw on with something you already have in your closet. Just a really easy and casual look. We pretty much do a little bit of everything.

HM: Just by walking into the boutique you can really tell that these items are different than what you would find at any other store.

LB: That’s what we tried to do! I’ve shopped my entire life at department stores.

I do like the boutique look though, because you can find little special things.

That’s what’s fun about having a boutique. We’re not everything to everybody.

The clientele we have likes to come back because they can find different pieces.

We have customers tell us all the time about going out to lunch with girlfriends and having them ask where they got their outfit because it is so different. Then eventually their girlfriends come in as well!

HM: Have you faced any obstacles in pursuing your dreams or anything you’ve had to overcome in opening Galleria Girl?

LB: Of course, that’s a great question! A lot of people will say, “Why are you doing this?” They don’t understand that when you have a product mix you’re looking for a certain client. People always say, “Well, we wouldn’t expect it to be here”. But that’s exactly why it’s here! It’s the unexpected. You know, when you stop thinking about your fears and start thinking about your dreams, they come true. We were a bit fearful in the beginning. “Is this really going to work in here?” And we found out that it did work because we’ve focused on making it a positive experience for

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everybody that comes in to shop.

HM: When it comes to designers and products that you carry, what’s the most important thing you look for when selecting a line to include here at the boutique?

LB: If I can think of two or three people that could wear the item, we get it. We really give it the “look test”. When we go to market, if we look at it for more than five seconds and still have to think about it, then it’s a no. If we look at it and think, “Yeah, I could see someone wearing this” or it would be a good compliment to another piece, then we definitely bring it in.

HM: Can you highlight a few designers that you do carry and what they have to offer our readers?

LB: When we went to our first market a year and a half ago, we thought about what our focus was going to be. We were looking for small companies that were run by women and were made in the U.S. So we tapped into those companies and started running with that. Then we looked at other designers that could compliment that.

We don’t go for just a certain designer or brand. Instead, we go toward a specific look. We have about 75 different designers and brands that we carry between the shoes, the purses, accessories and the clothing.

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HM: The fact that your boutique carries so many things that are made here in the U.S. is a huge selling point. It’s so hard to find to find a place that sells items that are actually made here.

LB: Right! And you know when we would go to market and would find women who were small entrepreneurs like we are, we felt a kindred spirit. We felt, “Well, we’ll definitely give your stuff two or three looks just to make sure that we aren’t missing something.” Not that we’re saying anything about the guys who are in this business, but girls like to work with girls sometimes!

HM: Can you tell us about three trends you’re carrying for fall and a bit about them?

LB: Of course! The colors for fall are really going to be in the grays and the greens. There are a lot of knits and casual pieces that go from one outfit to the next, multi- layering and big statement jewelry. Also, there will be shoes you can wear from fall to winter to spring.

There will be really multi-purpose pieces you can wear from season to season.

HM: Finally, can you tell us where we can learn more about you and Galleria Girl Boutique?

LB: We do have a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/GalleriaGirl. Like us on Facebook!

Or stop by the store. We’re located at 760 S. Route 59 in Naperville. If you want to know more about me, just head into the boutique and I’d be more than happy to sit down and have a cup of coffee with you!

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5 Musicians Turned Designers By: Regulo Alvarado

Justin Timberlake

from?” Co-founder, Trace Ayala.

While denim is the label’s core essential, the line also features leather jackets, footwear, eyewear, knits and womenswear. William Rast gets its name after each of its founder’s grandfathers (Timberlake’s grandfather’s first name is William Known for its distinctive denim, William Rast, while Ayala’s grandfather’s last name is Rast); infuses Hollywood glamour with a dark emotional Although Justin Timberlake took a break from appeal. In September 2008, Justin Timberlake the brand recently (due to hectic tour schedule), starred as the fictional character, Willam Rast, in the brand continues to embark in a promising a series of short films describing the story behind direction. With premium department stores the name. The six-episode installment, follows carrying the label, William Rast, is far away from Rast and his girlfriend (played by supermodel, Erin your traditional urban line. It’s a “symbol without Wasson) as they’re being chased by the police, any borders” Marcella, Design Director. eventually arrested and getting their mug shots Be sure to explore their latest lookbook exclusively taken. online at http://www.williamrast.com/ and you can William Rast was a label born in Los Angeles, California in 2005. It is a biker-inspired line that infuses rock n’ roll and “new America” edge. Best friends and Co-founders, Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala, collaborated to bring the line to life.

“Our clothes are functional as much as they are view the entire story and their latest fashion shows fashion forward. We stay true to our Americana on YouTube.com/OfficialWilliamRast. roots. What’s your history, where do you come

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“I’m tired of collaborating. I’m tired of it. And Rapper and fellow Chicagoan, Kanye West, joined there’s not so many people that I want to do forces with the French brand A.P.C. in 2011, which anything with.” - Jean Touitou, A.P.C. CEO debuted his first womenswear collection. After a Though West may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the launch of this successful line, he continued with his designs have a modern feel making them the men’s department. Earlier this year in January more desirable in today’s market. With a full line 2014, he showcased what would be his second and of footwear lined-up with Adidas, we are sure to last collaboration with A.P.C. during Paris Fashion see plenty more of Kanye apparel in the upcoming months. Although no specific release date has Week.

Inspired by the military, his menswear collection been provided, rumors have it that Kanye West ranges from plain tees, fitted cargo pants, crew- has already designed 20 shoes for Adidas.

Kanye West

neck sweaters, a fur-lined parka (which is only $2865... pocket change for the likes of his crew), and a few other items. Price points starting at $90.

While their first menswear collection was a huge success, to the point that the US online store crashed, Mr. Touitou (A.P.C. CEO) has decided to part ways with Kanye as he recently signed a design contract with Adidas.

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celebrity owned clothing line in history to earn $1 Launched in 2005, a collaboration with Nine billion in annual sales.

West’s co-founder Vince Camuto, Jessica Simpson “The Jessica Simpson Collection couldn’t be closer debuted her first and only shoe collection. After to Jessica’s heart, as she built the collection from a profitable partnership, the Jessica Simpson scratch alongside her mother, Tina, and enlisted Collection was born. With a wide variety of stylish younger sister, Ashlee Simpson, as the co-creative options, The Jessica Simpson Collection includes: director of Jessica Simpson Girls. Today, the Jessica shoes, accessories, fragrances, handbags, Simpson Collection is a billion dollar brand, available sunglasses, legwear, jewelry and twenty-four at over 2,500 points of distribution in 62 countries other categories. worldwide.” (Jessica Simpson’s Facebook) Jessica Simpson

“When it comes to other celebrity brands, I think The line can be purchased at: Amazon, Dillard’s, a lot of people do a great job, but it can’t be all Lord and Taylor, Macy’s and other higher-end about them. Everybody doesn’t want to just look department stores. like the celebrity, because they can’t. They just want one element of that style.” –Jessica Simpson, when asked what sets her brand apart from other celebrity lines.

As of December 2010, the brand’s carried in over 650 U.S. department stores and it is the first

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Adam Levine

play. So I don’t really give a (expletive) about formal Adam Levine may be the hottest guy in the world training or going to school; you don’t have to be (People Magazine 2013) but his looks aren’t the only trained in everything to be good at it.” –Adam Levine thing that’s hot. His debut collection self-titled: Adam The Maroon 5 front man received help from a Levine, has fans and average Joes raving about special someone in his life to bring this collection his designs! American songwriter and musician, to fruition. Victoria’s Secret model and fiancée, Levine, has been known for his provocative looks, Behati Prinsloo, worked closely with Levine in style and charm. As the 35-year-old artist begins his designing the line. “My vision for the women’s line new professional career as the head designer for was to create a collection that I would like to see the Adam Levine line, fans all over the world have a woman wear, I love a free spirit so I wanted the a new reason to spend their savings. clothes to have a relaxed and casual side to them.

Levine launched his menswear collection in early It’s effortless and classic. And in my opinion, classic 2013 exclusively to Kmart and ShopYourWay.com. is never boring.” Levine told Women’s Wear Daily.

After a huge success with the menswear line (Fall 2012), he’s decided to enter the womenswear arena. The collection line which retails for $30 or less, features crop tops, printed T-shirts, denim and twill shorts and maxi dresses.

“I don’t know how to read music, but I can still

In the upcoming months, Levine will host several Style Chats with customers and fans, explaining his designs and personal style.

You can shop the Adam Levine is store or online by visiting http://www.shopyourway.com/adamlevine

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dreamed about,” says Gwen. “And L.A.M.B. just Founded in 2003, Love Angel Music Baby or better keeps getting better every season.” known as L.A.M.B., is former No Doubt lead singer, At an early age, Gwen and her mother sewed Gwen Stefani’s fashion line. With a mixture of together and even designed some of the outfits Hollywood glamour and modern street-style, the she wore while on tour with No Doubt. She comes line is far from your everyday brand. from long line of seamstresses. So it comes with Mastering the juxtaposition, Gwen Stefani’s no surprise she followed the tradition.

Gwen Stefani

designs are both a touch of vintage feminine and masculine silhouettes. Clashing soft and hard elements to create her unique look. Some of her influences include those of Guatemalan, Japanese, Indian and Jamaican styles. L.A.M.B carries a wide selection of products including apparel, handbags, watches, shoes and fragrances.

With fellow celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Giuliana Rancic, and Jessica Alba sporting her label, L.A.M.B. is one of the few celebrity-owned lines that has a bright future in the fashion industry and continues to rise above renowned brands. Although the label may not be for everyone, it’s sure to bring just the right amount of Gwen in every garment.

Her watch line, originally sold only at Nordstrom, Take a peek at her Fall collection, which infuses a sold out in only two days! Making it Nordstrom’s professional look with a rocker-chic feel. And to own a piece of L.A.M.B., visit the online shop at most successful watch launch ever.

“Designing is something that I’ve always loved and http://www.shoplamb.com/

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HALFSTACK DIGITAL WWW.HALFSTACKMAG.COM

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The Cultured Spotlight

Written by: Stella Estrella-Quimby

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Left: Katie, Right: Sam 2 young ladies changing the world one state at a time?

Sounds like a movie plot right? Well, it isn’t. It is actually happening, starting this November 1, 2014 and ending October 31, 2015. 50 States in a year. The brain child behind this idea is Katie Arnold along with Sam Laufer. It was developed to raise money for Crossfit for Hope; a charity that gives back to childhood cancers and also to help people in Kenya get fresh clean water.

So, the overall objective for 50 states in a year is to go to all 50 states in an RV (well the ones they can visit…for sure not Hawaii) and in each state they want to hold fundraising events at local Crossfit boxes and spread awareness on their charity. People can also stay in touch with these remarkable ladies through their blog: 50Statesinayear.com.

So, do you want to help these ladies have a successful fundraising year? Make sure to visit them at the following sites and stay in touch with them! Who knows? Maybe they’ll be coming to a state near you!!

Reach out to them through email: 50statesinayear@gmail.com Twitter/Instagram: @50statesinayear Facebook: facebook.com/50statesinayear And to donate and help make a difference: gofundme. com/50statesinayear

The Cultured Spotlight 161

WRITTEN & BY: PHOTOGRAPHED BY: WRITTEN ROB SAMUELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PERRY FISH ROB SAMUELSON

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August 5, 2014 – Willye B. White Park is coming alive as the sky turns orange, a night limbering itself up for a festive time. Grills smoke, wafting the aroma of tubed meats and jerk chicken.

Bob Marley’s “Could You Be Loved” bellows from large speakers. Local public schools have tables set up to prepare kids for their upcoming orientation. Churches of every denomination are represented in full force, mingling with everyone, regardless of their beliefs. Children play tag and ride scooters. There’s a buzz.

It’s fun. Police are everywhere, but it’s a jovial scene – it’s a CAPS barbecue, one of dozens across the city of Chicago tonight.

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college. It’s a place filled with people from every background and walk of life, but it can be a bit insular within its population clusters.

Irrespective of the pie-in-the-sky notions floating in my head, people from different cultures remain reticent to mix and mingle in a seamless blend. Rather, it’s a rocky, messy meeting of backgrounds along the edges of some fairly segregated lines. Orthodox Jews Two women run down Howard Street. mostly stick to the western section. Many “Gunshots! Gunshots!” they yell. Their Hispanics live along the 7000 blocks of Clark tears are equal parts frustration, fear, and Street. Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants overwhelming sadness. dot Devon Avenue. Sheridan Road is both The officers pick up their pace. The squad car Nursing Home Central and a spot for pricier parked at the entrance ignites its sirens and developments around Loyola University. Then takes off. The music continues, but it has lost there’s my section just below the Evanston the harmonization of laughing friends and border, a smattering of black and white neighbors. Silence and dejection reign. Five people surrounding Willye B. White and the minutes into the celebration of community, Howard Red Line stop, an area pejoratively it’s over. known for decades as The Jungle. It’s a term loaded with negative meanings, the I’m no crime reporter. I avoid risk. You could say I’m a coward. I put on my helmet, unlock exact kind you’re thinking of. The police my bike, and ditch the barbecue-cum-crime- presence is constant, with multiple squad cars perpetually parked along Howard and scene for the comfort of several stiff drinks at Poitín Stil, an old school, cash-only bar on blinking blue CPD lights hanging from street Jarvis Avenue, less than half a mile away from lamps, Hobbes’s leviathan in operation.

Willye B. White.

And yet, the shooting mentioned above is only the second or third – one’s a maybe It may as well be a different city. I make a because the dumpsters in our alleys make couple friends and we discuss the merits of extremely loud bangs when they shut – I’ve the candidates in the upcoming Chicago heard in the 15 months I’ve lived here. I still mayoral race, the oddness of Rogers Park’s haven’t visually witnessed any violence. The high quantity of White Sox fans despite its location in Cubs territory as the northernmost worst thing I get is a guy who occasionally hangs outside the local liquor store who neighborhood of the city, and watch with knocks on my car window with a prepared excitement as those north siders’ shiny new pitch. power hitting second baseman, Javier Baez, makes his Major League debut. Everyone “Oh, I didn’t mean to scare you,” he says, in the bar is either oblivious to the violence never once remembering me, nor realizing that occurred earlier, or they join me in a I’m not scared. “Do you have change for a collective avoidance coping mechanism. dollar?”

This is a common mentality I’ve noticed in I usually don’t, and I tell him as such. my year-plus living in the neighborhood, “Ah man, plastic!” he says, referring to the generally considered the most diverse in the common excuse of people only carrying city. That was part of the draw for this showcredit cards. “Hey man, I’m just looking to off liberal when choosing where to live postget some cigarettes. Do you mind running in Pop, pop, pop. A quick succession. Every head turns northbound, but none as fast as those officers’. They walk gingerly, but determinedly in the direction of the noises, holding onto the hope that they’re just someone’s leftover Fourth of July supply. But they know better. We all do. But the hope continues for a minute or so.

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“In fact, I would say that in the past 10 years Rogers Park has a lot less crime due to gentrification than people coming together or brilliant crime strategies and I expect this to continue,” and grabbing me a pack?”

There’s always a bit of cognitive dissonance with this request. If I were to have change for a dollar, he would be no closer to his goal of getting his pack. I humor him nonetheless.

Keep in mind that this is always while the light is about to change. The people driving behind me are not going to be pleased if I switch on my hazards to get this guy his smokes. I’m often torn between respect for his honesty at what he wants and annoyance that he isn’t asking for food instead. I politely say I can’t do that, and he snaps his fingers and kicks the dirt like Charlie Brown after missing the football.

ways. There’s nothing strained about it, but we’re not exactly going to call each other up to play catch. Neither of us is necessarily against it, but our unshared backgrounds make a connection difficult.

That notion is partially informed and strengthened by conversations with the beat cops in the area. One patrolling officer who wished not to be named for this piece spoke about the tricky nature of the area’s diversity.

“While all these cultures may live in close proximity, I don’t know how much everyone is exchanging ideas, values, and new recipes,” he says. “What the majority of people have in common is more to do with all trying to “No worries, man, have a good one,” he says eek out a living in a part of town that is both as the light turns green. This exact exchange affordable and ‘safe enough.’” has happened at least 20 times.

“In fact, I would say that in the past 10 years That’s a good illustration of the iffy nature of interracial relations in Rogers Park. My buddy looking for cigarettes is black, I am not, we talk politely, can’t come to an agreement, say our goodbyes, and go our separate

Rogers Park has a lot less crime due to gentrification than people coming together or brilliant crime strategies and I expect this to continue,” he says.

Well-meaning goofballs like me are part of

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that gentrification process. Despite some severe opposition to changing demographics in some neighborhoods in Chicago and beyond – I’ve seen graffiti in other places saying things like “Gentrifiers go home” – I haven’t personally experienced any animosity in my time here. I feel welcome, but the officer reminds me to remain aware of my surroundings and take precautions.

“I feel robberies and burglaries are still a huge problem here,” he says. “I think some of this is due to how naive some of the residents here are, like believing that it’s safe to walk around at four in the morning with a new iPhone 5 thinking everyone is your friend.”

Strong friendships may not be in the cards at

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the moment, but a sense of neighborliness and civic pride is on the upswing in Rogers Park. There’s a beautification process transforming the area. The aesthetics of the community have improved markedly even in the short time I’ve been here. It’s always been flush with trees, which is nice, but that can only cover up so much blight. And there sure is plenty of ugliness to fix. There used to be a dump of an empty lot across from Willye B. White. Its only notable element was a squad car plopped there all night waiting for something bad to happen, with the wind off Lake Michigan blowing dust all over the place. It had an urban Sergio Leone vibe to it, minus the visual niftiness of an anamorphic lens. It looked and felt dead. It was gross.

Now, it’s the Rogers Park Victory Garden, courtesy of the Peterson Garden Project.

It’s filled with small plots for locals to plant their own gardens and decorate them however they want. Scott Tennant, who lives near the newly christened urban farm, explains it to me as being based on a time of unprecedented collective action.

an architecture, resources preservation and city planning movement that has exploded in popularity in recent decades to combat things like climate change, inactivity-induced obesity, and suburban sprawl.

“I’m a fanatical devotee, if you want to say, to the concept of New Urbanism,” he says.

“I’m a big fan of all those guys, [writers] “Basically it’s patterned on the concept of the Richard Florida, James Howard Kunstler victory garden, which was during World War I’m a huge fan of, Andres Duany, all those II,” he says. “The city of Chicago essentially guys, and I really believe that their concept became amateur gardeners, people got their of – whether you’re a peak oil guy or not, I own plot and started growing their stuff to don’t know – their concept of diminishing support the war effort.” resources and the way we’re going to have to adapt in the coming years is going to be “What they do is, they negotiate with the more [urban solutions like the garden] and far owners of empty lots, while they’re trying less decentralized suburban living.” to sell or whatever, the rights to use it,” he says. “The idea’s to promote the concept of The neighborhood is really trying to live the starting a garden to people who don’t really New Urbanist ethos, with public meeting know how to do it, they just want to get their spaces for shopping, eating, and drinking hands dirty, people who don’t have the space popping up along Jarvis and Morse Avenue at their own apartments, and also as they especially, and free, walkable art galleries describe it is to foster a sense of community.” along the Red Line as part of the ongoing Mile of Murals project. While biking around It seems to be working. I’m no spacial the community to take photos for this piece, I reasoning expert, but I’d estimate there ran into Peter Hurley, an artist commissioned are around 50 plots already planted, with to work on a stretch of the Red Line murals. room for a bunch more. The colors pop. It’s He’s still in the process of creating his piece, inviting. The squad cars have moved across but it has all the hallmarks of what the the street, inching further away into a future neighborhood is trying to accomplish in its where they won’t be needed on a 24/7 march toward a more active and aesthetically basis. People are coming and learning how appreciative populace. to do something creative and productive.

They’re growing food, sure, but also a feeling “This section, they gave me a nice criteria: of having skin in the game. Tennant says the notion is movement and stillness,” he that’s all part of a plan, which is based on says. “In my own work, I’ve always been

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prone to depicting the dancer, particularly ballet dancers – I followed ballet for years.”

“It was a natural subject to come to in terms of movement, so I started a more traditional and classical type of movement into more street movement,” he says as he indicates how the mural progresses from south to north. “Tai Chi, martial arts, … whirling dervishes, all manner of movement – the compositions create that sort of linear reading of movement and passive moments as well to complement it.”

“He’s in a wheelchair and everybody seems to know him,” he says. “He carries a loaf of bread with him, he feeds birds, thus his nickname.”

“He’s been sort of our mascot, our biggest cheerleader for the piece,” Hurley says.

These are positive steps, but they remain things that are done and appreciated in individual ways or, at best, as part of a small group. Gardening is a tranquil thing you typically do alone, and once the amateurs are taught the basics at the Victory Garden, they can once again retreat to their bubble, Hurley says the program is working as tend to their own plot, and go about their planned.

“What’s interesting is, so many passersby are day with nary a neighborly interaction. Not many people can fit in the small streets complimentary and seem to take ownership of this area,” he says. “They have responded along the Red Line to appreciate the murals, particularly when cars are also vying for space with commentary about how it is a boon to get through. It’s a problem from the New to the neighborhood to have this kind of picturesque sort of thing instead of this bland Urbanist standpoint that Rogers Park doesn’t have a centralized “downtown” area, which concrete wall that used to be here.” is a product of it being merely a section of Hurley has developed a bit of a fan club as a much larger city. To simulate that effect, he has worked on his section this summer. local leaders have to resort to things like the His favorite is a man from a nearby nursing annual Celebrate Clark Street, a festival of home. world music, food, and general local flavor “There are some colorful characters along to really bring all the disparate elements and the way,” he says. “We’ve befriended one of cultures in one place in a peaceful manner. the regulars, Bird Man,” who shows up every It’s not an especially organic way to have afternoon. this effect, but it’s fun, so I head there to get

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a crash course in some stuff I have never experienced before.

Walking down the cordoned off Clark Street, $4 Gordita in hand (you can’t beat that), I’m approached by a guy with an indeterminate accent. He’s carrying a miniature library in his hands, books about meditation and Hare Krishna.

“Oh boy,” I think. I want to talk my way out of it, but my mouth is full of Gordita. I’m stuck. He’s got me.

I let him talk for a while. He says the local Hare Krishna Center has a tent set up, they’re doing free meditation workshops and can I make a donation please.

“Double oh boy,” goes through my head.

I’m a sap, a regular bleeding heart, so of course I’ll fork over a little cash. He gives me a couple books that will be misplaced in my apartment almost as soon as I get home. One of them has a couple Beatles on the cover. I give him $5. He thanks me and I head to the beer tent en route to the concert stage.

There I meet Lois Lewis, a sweet lady just looking for a couple dollars for a drink. She apparently hasn’t brought cash with her and can’t find an ATM. My sympathies vouch for her because it took me 20 minutes to find

one myself, in a dilapidated convenience store that doesn’t look like it’s even open to customers during the festival, so I hand her two singles and basically bribe her into giving me an interview because I have integrity.

It turns out she’s a triple threat: art teacher, writer, part-time comedienne at a club on Belmont. A former Rogers Park resident, she says she loved her time here and looks forward to any chance to return, like for this street fest.

“It was a pretty, safe, quiet, diverse, lovely, kind, most of the time good neighborhood for me,” she says before rattling off all the churches and synagogues she can think of off the top of her head. She’s a religious person and says she appreciates the faith community in the area.

This makes me feel a little guilty. I brushed off the Hare Krishna guy before without giving him my full attention. Sure, I donated a little money, but not enough to make any real difference, and there’s no way I’ll read those books anytime soon, if ever. Besides, the band is still tinkering with their tuning. I have time.

“Open minds learn more,” I repeat to myself silently as I march back in the direction of the Hare Krishna tent and get to talking with

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a man named Gokul Ananda Das, a man I assume is a leader of some sort at the Center.

He’s running the meditation workshop, so I say why not. But first I want to learn a little more, so out comes the voice recorder.

or practice a new religion, but anything that helps to turn off the constant over-analysis in my noggin is welcome. I thank him, having learned something of value, and head back toward the concert area.

On the way is a tent for Joe Moore, Alderman of the 49th Ward, our district.

Handing out pamphlets and answering constituent questions is Bob Fuller, the I had figured it was polytheistic. You learn Alderman’s legislative aid. I walk over to something new every day. He sits me down thank him for a quick response I sent to in a rickety wooden chair atop a red rug and Moore’s office about the absurd parking hands me a string of beads that looks like a Rosary. Suddenly the guilt I felt a few minutes restrictions the People’s Gas renovation project – prepare yourselves, rest of Chicago, ago make sense. It all ties back into my because they’re coming for you soon – is Catholic upbringing! putting on my block yet again. He says he “We’re going to practice a form of has time for a quick interview, so we have meditation called Japa Mala,” he says. “Japa a wide-ranging chat because I had no idea means ‘to speak soft,’ so this means that he’d be there and thus hadn’t prepared any … we use our voice, but in a soft way, [and] questions. He has the most positive outlook Mala means basically ‘brown,’ which means on the place yet. That’s probably because that we are using beads that are strung on a it’s part of his job, but it’s encouraging to thread.” hear how devoted a public servant is to his “This tradition is called mantra meditation jurisdiction. because we use sound vibrations,” he says.

“I think living in Rogers Park in the 49th “Mantra means man, ‘mind,’ and tra means Ward means dealing with all the good things ‘free the mind,’ so mantra is a vibration and the challenges of living in a diverse sound that frees the mind.” place,” he says. “I think maybe 95 percent He instructs me to move my fingers to a new of Americans live in communities that are bead after each round of the chant. This is either economically or racially or religiously far more interesting than the bald guys who or some type of background that’s primarily sell pencils at the airport made me think this pretty much what they are, whereas Rogers ritual would be.

Park and a few other neighborhoods in the city are genuinely a tremendous mix of He begins. It’s something I recognize from people, whether that’s education, their ethnic George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord.” background, their cultural feelings about “Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, things.”

Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama,” and Environmentalism has become a big part of so forth. My eyes are closed, my shoulders the office’s goals. slump; my fingers move from bead to bead.

Tingles begin on my neck and the back of “The natural resources that we have in my head, much like when the water first hits Rogers Park and the 49th Ward are truly my torso during a shower. I relax entirely. unique,” he says. “Our street-end beaches, We finish. He says I can keep the beads and there’s nothing like them in the rest of the do this whenever I like. I think I might take city and it’s something worth protecting and him up on the offer. I won’t shave my head developing further.” “[Hare Krishna is] a branch of Hinduism,” he says. “It’s a monotheistic spiritual tradition whose roots go back 5,000 years ago.”

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He’s not just paying lip service to that idea, either. They are implementing real policies to protect and enhance the beaches.

“We’re always working with the Chicago Parks to make our beaches more accessible,” he says. “For example, through our participatory budgeting process, one of the winning projects for the past couple years has been putting in access ramps on the beaches [for] people in wheelchairs, but also people with baby carriages can more easily get out to the lakefront.”

Fuller doesn’t mention New Urbanism by name, but it’s a clear influence on the Alderman’s commitment to fixing, enhancing, and installing better bike lanes for the neighborhood.

“One thing that we’re working on that is really important is the improvement to the bike infrastructure through the neighborhood,” he says. “What we’re trying to do in the next year or so is to create what’s called a Neighborhood Greenway, which makes one street much better for cyclists, for pedestrians, and implements things that help drivers to drive more reasonable through a residential neighborhood.”

“We’re working on the routing of that, making sure that people don’t feel like it’s jammed down their throats so that we get consensus on that,” he says.

Some innovations they’re looking at in the cycling infrastructure realm is protected lanes, possibly by putting them on the passenger side of parked cars, thus saving cyclists from moving traffic, or painting several feet of markers to achieve the same goal.

After he sets my heart aflutter with his talk of keeping me safe on my bike, I ask him to bring it all home on his summation of Rogers Park.

“It’s a wonderful place,” he says.

Mr. Fuller has a rosier view of the community

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than most, including me, but he’s not far off, either. Rogers Park is a neighborhood on the rise. It has structural, cultural, and crimerelated speed bumps in the way of achieving its goals, the good and bad coincide a little too often, and every improvement happens in fits and starts. But the longer I’m here, the more I want to stay. I’m learning to embrace the mess.

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where’s jimmy!?

WRITTEN BY: THOM OLSON

It’s Sunday afternoon and you are at Oak Street Beach. A beautiful blonde comes

up and asks you “Where’s Jimmy?” and proceeds to hand you a light blue package. The color is somewhat similar to Tiffany’s iconic little gift boxes. Alas… Tiffany’s is not giving away free samples... though one can still hope. It is, however, a small sample of a fruit bar. It’s marked vegan. Some might find that word marked on the package a little scary. You either try it or throw it in your travel tote for later.

Later you happen to be on a mud run. Could it be that running in this madness is the result of a three-martini evening where you placed a bet and lost? Thus… you are running through an obstacle course doused in soggy wet dirt. Or, is this something you volunteered for because you find it “pleasant”? Anyhow, low and behold, you see that same blonde, who hands you another taste of something wrapped in the same blue wrapper. Exhausted and hungry, you decide to give it a try. You eat it. OMG, you actually like it. You ask for another and get a taste of a second flavor. You wolf it down and are on your way. Did you just have your first vegan experience?

After a shower and cozying up with a very large bar of soap, you hop on down to the Whole Foods Grocery store to get something for dinner. Who do you run in to? Yup, you guessed it. Blondie hands you a sample but this time you ask for a couple of the real deal and buy them. You have just bought a Jimmy Bar. Jimmy Bars are a fruit-based snack bar. Each bar has all natural ingredients. In a rare twist of food packaging, all the ingredients are featured prominently on the front of the package and not in micro type buried on the back. There isn’t anything listed that leaves a question mark in your mind like Maltodextrin, high

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fructose corn syrup or some hydrogenated goo. You can actually pronounce all the ingredients and see there is a shelf life on the package. It’s not like a Twinkie. Yes, it is vegan, but that is less scary now. There isn’t a dairy component added to the product nor are there any lactose bi-products added. It is gluten free — not a lot of foods can say that, particularly in the snack bar category. The funny thing is, though, it actually tastes good without any sugar added. The base of the bar is dates. There are 4 varieties: Chocolate Chip, Banana Muffin, Peanut Butter and Apple. With all that said why are you still intrigued? It was blonde right? Or was it the food? So, you start to do some investigating, as you need an answer to the question.

Who is the blonde?

You might have run into one of the two that man the helm of this healthy snack food ship.

The very athletically handsome: Jimmy Simon, Co-Founder of Jimmy Bars OR his lovely niece Ciarra. Ciarra is the extremely cute, collegiate daughter of the other Co-Founder Annette Del Prete. The pieces start to fall in to place as you recognize it. Annette is one of

the owners of Fillippo’s Restaurant in Lincoln Park.

You probably have been going there for many years either before or after a movie. It’s a staple destination over on Clybourn St. It is kiddy corner from Webster Place Theater.

You recognize the blonde, as you have seen her many times at Fillippo’s, waiting on you. Both businesses are a family thing. This new nutrition bar sprang into existence out of the same kitchen as your homemade pasta dinner. It stands to reason and it is no wonder why it would taste good.

The restaurant has been around for over 20 years making your favorite Chicken Valdostana. The restaurant was in the neighborhood before it was a neighborhood. They make their own pasta in house and after a plate of it I asked Annette, “What’s the story?”

A word about Annette… and full disclose here. We go way back. I was a waiter in the first restaurant she managed when she got out of college. Her name was Annette Simon. That’s how we first met.

A few years later, I ran into her at Fillippo’s where she was engaged to Fillippo Del Prete. They have since got married and had two kids. Annette is very smart. She knows food and is fierce in business.

She is also a serial entrepreneur. She has had four businesses including: the restaurant, a Mexican fast food shop, a wholesale bakery and now Jimmy Bars. Jimmy Simon is her brother and very much like her. He is also a serial entrepreneur. He has had six businesses including a very successful IT development company, an art gallery, a commercial realty business and two paper companies. He chuckles at doing the same business twice but he said it was fun.

He has lived on both coasts and a couple spots in between before coming back to Chicago to do take on this new venture. They both readily admit to their dad having a lot to do with their self-made state of mind. He was a commodities trader but also an entrepreneur. He instilled in them the mindset to blaze their own paths. He said there is no pension plan option; one has to build it on-theirown in order to ensure their future. Jimmy (who is very active and very healthy) asked Annette to join him in a new business venture. This time, though, it would be a retail food item that would leverage her expertise. Her epicurean results are what is currently being sold in over 30 states and Canada.

Jimmy Bars are also beginning to ship to the UK and Australia. It has been a very meteoric rise.

They started selling bars just a year and a half ago.

“It starts with the bar and we are piggy-backing off a lot of social and cultural events; Michelle Obama’s healthy food initiative, nutrition labels being examined for what is considered healthy. This along with the awareness that the US is tied with Mexico as being the fattest and unhealthiest country on the planet has helped us established a path.

We wanted to make something simple and uncomplicated. What you see in a Jimmy Bar is what you get. You won’t get a bar laced with artificial protein powder or sprayed-on vitamins. It is real food. We didn’t want it to have any artificial garbage. We wanted to make something healthy. I like real food.

I think other people do too,” says Jimmy.

Jimmy and Annette make a good tag team. They seem to work in tandem well when it comes to logistics and planning. There is also a lot of trust there. They have a third person in the mix — a second sister, Sue Wynne. They share office space with their third sister who owns Simon Casting — a talent and casting studio for film, theater and television. And yes, there is a family dog that wonders around the office as if he owns the place.

A new idea… Foot Work.

“We are hitting the market hard. What is interesting is how much you can do with less. This is all being built by pounding the pavement. An IT company needs lots of employees and programmers to crank out a product. It is never cash positive. You may never see a profit until the company sells after a product is developed. It’s like you’re a manufacturer of an engine, but the engine goes in a car.

You make the engine but people buy the car. You sell your product to a manufacturer who eventually buys you out because you turn over what he needs. The food business is a totally different ball of wax. It is so much easier to understand and develop … and much harder,” mentions Jimmy. “It really is more grass roots and about pounding the pavement, going door to door and getting known.”

Annette chimes in. “I have 20 employees at Fillippo’s with a lot of overhead. I am doing as much and more with Jimmy Bars with just three employee.” This is a lot of work. Annette is on the road

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continuously. She puts on many miles per day hitting numerous supermarkets, grocery chains, passing out samples and traveling to find new places to place Jimmy like healthy food stores, sports facilities and gyms. “Ironically, the first real breaks for Jimmy came from corporations and institutions,” says Annette.

Many corporations sponsor events for their employees or have food in the kitchen. A food snack in a corporate kitchen is way of keeping employees at their desks. Many invest in snack foods, but the real push, currently, is giving healthy food snacks to employees. Corporations are looking at keeping their employees productive and healthy. Healthy employees are more productive, happier at their job and keep healthcare costs down while simultaneously missing less time from work. It shows in the bottom line when one looks at a company’s Profit and Loss Statement. Health care is a huge component of most businesses. Starbucks, for example, spends over $250 a year on healthcare — more than it does on coffee beans. Corporate sales quickly became a big sales push initiative as a means of getting people to try the product.

“If you can get the product in their hands and they try it, more than likely, they will like it enough to buy it when they see it on supermarket shelves. That has been the push. When people find out it is real food without any chemical crap, they get excited. Corporations were more eager to try it than food stores.

Corporations, hospitals and Admiral’s clubs were our first major sales wins. Sodexo was wonderful for us.

This is a food category that has a lot of competition.

And many stores are skeptical. I have a new found respect for Whole Foods. They are amazing and nothing is taken for granted. They want verification for everything. Lots of testing and chemical analysis from our manufacturer was a mandatory.”

How the game works.

Whole Foods is not an easy sell. Even with all natural ingredients and no artificial components listed on the bar, one would think it would be easy to get into the nation’s top natural and organic food store chain. It took a year and a half. Whole Foods has many levels of verification (hoops to jump through) to substantiate any and all claims on a package. A vendor has to substantiate everything first before they can be given the opportunity to sell to each store buyer. Yup. You read that correctly. Once you get past corporate gate-

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keepers, you still have to trek out to each and every store to meet with the individual store buyer to convince them to make a spot for Jimmy. Independent grocery stores operate the same way. It is all about making a connection and getting the buyers to give it a shot. Initial orders also do not necessitate a reorder. There is a lot of consumer awareness that needs to be generated. Grocery stores are not likely to give up shelf space to a product that does not have a following. Without a following, stores won’t touch it.

There has to be name recognition so people know who it is. Consumers usually like to try the product first before they are willing to buy it especially when it comes to a food product. They are not always willing to take a risk on a new product when it is sitting next to something they may have already tried. Stock also has to turn. Stores want to be able to get it from a distributor and add it to a bill. They do not always want to deal with a new vendor and the initial paperwork that entails setting a new vendor up in a system.

Jimmy Bars currently does not have a distributor or retail outlet.

“Distributers are kind of like the chicken and egg thing. A distributor wants to make sure you have a customer base before they will take you on to send products out to stores. They don’t want returns.

Stores want a distributor to ensure they can get product quickly for just-in-time inventory and not deal with extra paperwork. You have to have one to get the other which can be a challenge. Thus you pound the pavement to generate buzz and get the product in people’s hands,” says Jimmy.

Buzzing about Jimmy?

Not all customers are alike. Tastes are different and customers vary. Sampling customers at a mud run or the beach may sound strange, but it’s not. Jimmy Bar customers are active people who are health conscious, oftentimes hipsters and young professionals who know the value of eating healthy. For them, Jimmy Bar customers are eating a healthy diet not just about eating food as they are also concerned about eating clean. You probably won’t see them wolfing on a candy bar or plunking down some loose change on a snack size bag of Doritos. You see them dropping their cash on healthy eating and a health producing lifestyle. They are athletes. They are exercising. They are those folks running through the mud on weekends at Mud Fest. They also tend to shop at Whole Foods vs.

Jewel. Eating healthy is not exactly cheap.

The US Food and Farm Bills subsidize corn for fuel production, not broccoli for human consumption. These folks make a healthy diet a priority and are willing to spend cash on it. If there were corn syrups and corn bi-products and fillers, Jimmy Bars would not have the appeal they are receiving. This is food that starts out as food and ends up as food. It’s that component that attracts their loyal following. And because Jimmy Bar consumers tend to be young and active professionals, they are tech savvy as well.

There is a lot of social media presence for the brand with Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Jimmy Bars has an online sales presence that is generating the buzz. They have tended to do everything online and it’s doing well. It is blowing past its initial projected sales figures and doing much better than expected. But pretty soon, there will be a Jimmy Bar billboard popping up on a highway near you.

“Whole Foods has been really good for us. It aligns with our customer base really well. Not all stores are like that. Whole Foods is not like Jewel or Walgreens. Our number one for Walgreens is in Bucktown where there are a lot of hipsters and vegetarians. Smoothie King was another win for us. They have 700 stores across the country and align nicely with our typical customer profile. We actually are now in Nordstrom’s 120 stores coffee shops too.” says Annette.

She is getting ready to do a trip to the South, including Florida’s Miami and South Beach areas.

“We’re in hockey stick growth and we are starting to run up the stick now. We are looking at three investors currently who can take us to the next level and to work on the distribution factors. We have a two-year goal and we are hitting and exceeding our projections.

When we get that round of growth funding, we will be seeing our million a month goals, which is really amazing as we are just three people.

It really is pounding the pavement.” And on that note, Annette packs her car up with boxes of Jimmy Bars preparing to hit the road.

Today she is heading North towards Wisconsin to the headquarters of another grocery chain. Jimmy bars and beer… perhaps.

VISIT JIMMYBARS ONLINE: WWW.JIMMYBARS.COM

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The Great Street

Re s ta ura n t WRITTEN BY: THOM OLSON LAYOUT BY: KALI KOLLER

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If you haven’t visited Great Street at the Renaissance Hotel for a while, you might be in for a treat.

Yes, the Renaissance Hotel at One West Wacker Drive has been kicking around for a while, but the restaurant on the second floor has received a much-needed facelift. Yet, that is just the beginning of the story. It really starts with an ownership change this past January.

The Great Street Restaurant occupies the end of the hotel that over looks the river and North Michigan Avenue Bridge. As the hotel faces the river, it seems to have been designed to look vaguely like the front end of a river boat with a gracefully curved front. Theentrance opens out with Great Street overlooking the activities on the 2nd floor. The hotel tackled the dining room redesign with much needed finesse.

The restaurant has always had a wonderful viewat night. The city glow has always made this space quite lovely and sparkling — however, the sheer size of the dining room made it impossible to feel comfortable. It was massive and even when it was full and busy, one always felt a little alone like the only customer in a circus tent.

next year. Their roof top area above the restaurant currently has a terrace only accessible by the conference rooms, but it will change. The goal is to expand and make it more accessible to the new roof top bar overlooking the Chicago River.

It will be launched in May and I have marked my calendar to make sure and visit the new space. It is indeed a perfect location and the view is killer.

A sensible approach — private dining rooms.

This idea of private dining rooms truly made sense from many points of view.

The Renaissance Hotel is a first class business hotel. It’s neighbors with 35 West Wacker’s Leo Burnett and links to

What was once a truly cavernous room has now been divided up to make a more intimate space.

A room that was once considered a ridiculous waste of space witha horrible layout has been transformedinto somethingfunctional yet beautiful. The remodeled restaurant has a more intimate feel with better traffic control. It still feels spacious but not cavernous. The interior is a tad more contemporary and modern without feeling cold. The columns have been covered in mirror to enhance the view and reflectthe city lights at night and the view.The warm wood still remains. Theneutral color paletteenhances the wood and make the room feel spa like and calm.

This place is such a nice improvement over the last reiteration. And it will only get better. The hotel has plans for a redo of the rooms. The downstairs bar (Novo) will change around the holidays and become a new concept. Eight new concepts have been presented for thenew bar, so stay tuned. The really big news is a new roof top bar slated to open around May of

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it by a pedestrian mall area. The hotel is easily acces- no hesitation of booking a wedding in this space. sible by way of the city Pedway System. The private These rooms have been very well received as they have been booking up quickly so plan ahead for your dining rooms are a wonderful spot for business meeting and presentations when there needs to be a holiday festivities. more celebratory tone or a meeting that needs to be out of the office and not in a boardroom. They areThe Food Concept exquisitely perfect for SMALL wedding receptions or banquets of 12 to 25. YES, believe it or not, the kind The menu and concept of the restaurant has of space that can accommodate a small reception for received a facelift as well and offers interesting flavor intimate friends and family is extremely hard to find combinations. Hotel food can be a bit mundane and anywhere in the city. Most reception rooms start perhaps a bit of a snooze when dining out with little at about 50 people, thus making seating for smaller variety from hotel to hotel. This menu has variety events really difficult. Some rooms in the cityhave a and more. Chef James Samson is responsible for new very kitschy feel and focus less on the guests and concept. It is a new take on the farm-to-table food more about making the business identity of the trend. He explained it quite simply as a walk through restaurant part of the event. They can make a wed- the neighborhoods of Chicago. The restaurant sits ding reception feel strange or similar to a theme wed- on State St. If someone were to walk through the ding. The private dining rooms at Great Street offer a various neighborhoods in Chicago, what food ideas lovely view and are very comfortable. I would have and creations would percolate up? Which is exactly

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he did. Chef Samson is a transplant from Phoenix and has worked in a number of places across the country but had only been here a year. He wanted to see what Chicago food was like so he toured the neighborhoods and came up with some mouth-watering dishes for just about every palate including the finicky traveler. The menu is cohesive as well as flavorful. It is very health conscious. All but two of the dishes are nut free. All but one dish can be prepared gluten free.

Fresh is the key word as well as made from scratch as much as possible in the kitchen.

With the modified farm-to-table concept, Samson took liberties with what is considered local but emphasized the idea of small farm. Much of the food is pulled together from small farms with many locally produced including the beers offered. This version of the concept utilizes very small mom/pop farms that offer unique blends of veggies, fruits and meats.

He also utilizes a firm called FarmLogix. This Evanston-based company is the brainchild of Linda Mailier. It connects restaurants with small independent farmers and offers tools for sustainability all the while helping farmers market their produce without adding additional cost to them. The food gets picked up by Testa Produce and distributed. He also utilizes Urban Till — a Chicago grown source for microgreens and specialty herbs. Samson’s food vision doesn’t stop with how he gets his ingredients, but become a source for his experimentation. He likes to play with his food. He is currently playing with Anson Mills Grits — an artisan mill that uses organic heirloom grains and course grinds to produce a unique texture.

The Grits are made from Antebellum varieties that were bred for flavor, not shelf life or transport. They are a giant step away from Monsanto and GMO foods and a throwback to real food. Samson is a big fan of Big Fork Sausage — a Chicago product that is minimally processed with no preservative, MSG, nitrates, hormones or any artificial dreck.

So what does he make?

A few unique items on the menu include a quinoa crabcake with a scallion pesto and the Tuna Tataki.

This seems to be a favorite dish of Chef Samson.

Similar to a steak tartar, it is presented with togarashi lotus root chips. They look like little wagon wheels and are quite delightful and offer crunch. He obviously found Chicagos Chinatown.

He also must have hit Lawrence Ave. with the Braised Lamb Bahn Mi. This lunch sandwich is made of braised lamb and comes with a house made kimchi, cilantro and thai basil. There is also a Double Cut Berkshire Pork Chop that had to have found it’s origins in Chicago’s German neighborhood. This comes close to a Sauerbraten but instead of noodles or spaetzle, it comes with potato dumplings, purple cabbage and tart cherry mostarda and carmelized pecans. This is the one of the two dishes on the menu that has nuts but can be left off.

If you want a taste of Devon Avenue, but with a better view, try the Harissa Lamb Porterhouse. Harissa is a Maghrebian hot chili pepper paste mixed with herbs and garlic. The lamb has been marinated in this spicy paste and roasted. It has an edamame mint salsa which is also spicy, but comes with a cucumber and yogurt raita to the cut the heat and the chef leaves it to the individual as to how spicy or mild they want their meal. It is an interesting mix of Middle Eastern and Indian and definitely worth tasting.

Because this is Chicago, there is a nod to pizza… but with a wink. Samson’s version of cheese pizza has smoked gouda, a white sauce and wild mushrooms.

It is a definite step up from traditional mozzarella with red sauce pizzas. So are the ham and fig pizzas or the bbq duck with carmelized onion pizzas.

So, Ok, you’re on a date with someone with a little less sophisticated palette or is a meat and potatoes kind of person. Great Street has burgers with fries for a very reasonable price so they will be happy. Or perhaps you are tagging along a small child to lunch while doing some back to school shopping. They have a children’s menu and Chef Ben Walker is the busy boy pastry chef. Not only does he create the hotel’s croissants and rolls, but also a tropical lime bombe — a flourless coconut cake (gotta keep the gluten free

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menu and quite a few locally made beers. No cider… WHAT???? Isn’t that a trend right now?

Aren’t some beer companies introducing new Politically incorrect, unfiltered – ciders to keep up with this trend that is so popular? Even my 90-year-old mother knows or perhaps dry? that is a trend right now. Did I miss something?

So what didn’t I like?

Only one IPA and two sparklers (prosecco and Funny you should ask. I am not exactly known Mumm) were offered on the menu. The Mumm for establishing dry restaurants. And while this was a gouge at 16 bucks a glass. Mumm? $16? restaurant is not exactly dry, it has an adequate There was, however, a plethora of chardonnay to pick from (OK, so now I am being catty). (cough, cough) wine list. The real shocker was when it comes to cocktails — there aren’t any.

So the upshot?

YUP! If you want a cocktail with dinner other than wine, you’re S.O.L. Even more of a shocker, if you want a glass of port, brandy, scotch or Come here for the view. Come for the food.

Drambui, you have to schlep downstairs to the Come for a quiet dinner that has a hint of robar, lose the view and sit in with the bar crowd mance. If you need a private dining room that will impress and enhance an evening, check out and the noise. You can hoof it downstairs and Great Street. Come if you want healthy and you wait in line at the bar and get hassled bringing want to help sustain farmers. HOWEVER — your cocktail upstairs by taking the escalator.

You will probably spill/drink half your cocktail by don’t come if you are vegetarian as you have a choice of only one entrée. (Again, really? This the time you get back to your table. Ok… between you and me — this was a WTF moment. was another WTF moment and I’m anything BUT vegetarian). And bring a flask. My apoloAren’t we still in Chicago? Or did we do a time gies, I didn’t ask is there was a corkage fee. I warp into a third world country? Some conwas still taken a bit by surprise by the no drink sider Chicago the third coast but not the third option and forgot to ask. I truly look forward to coast of Beirut. the rooftop bar opening next May, but wonder if they will make me go downstairs for the ice.

I sort of wanted to take Brian Jaymont (the sommelier) aside for a time out, but then Chef Samson fessed up he was not a drinker (just beer) and I got the AHA moment. Jaymont holds certification in tequila so you’d think he would have put at least one lovely sipping tequila on the after dinner drink menu, but he doesn’t offer any after dinner drinks. I was really confused by this concept of no cocktails before, during or after dinner. The response I got when I asked was “If people want to drink, they can go down to the bar.” My response to that is this: “Yes, they can… and perhaps to the bar across the street.” It is about service and offering the diner what they want. And food and alcohol go together like… hmmmm food and alcohol. people happy) with lime mouse and guava gelée. It’s a nice ending to a lovely meal.

There were a lot of California wines on the

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HALFSTACK HIGHLIGHTS INSIGHTS, INSPIRATION & INTIMIATE CONVERSATIONS

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Chicago at Night by:

Aimee Jeane Elizabeth of Visual Stimulus

Art has never been optional for me. I must engage myself in some form of it on a daily basis. Photography is my way of interpreting and releasing the fleeting ideas, thoughts, and emotions that consistently consume me. My moods are captured within my photos. This is how I communicate to the world, and to you, the viewer.

Part of my process prior to engulfing myself into where and what I am going to shoot is that I have none. I am spontaneous and I allow my feelings and mood to literally drive me to where I am supposed to go. I may do a tad bit of research on specific areas of the city prior to shooting, but normally I let go of reason and let fate take the reins.

I strive to capture the architecture of not only a city, but life itself. I want my photography to speak to my audience and breathe life into them as it does to me. To reveal the unseen, expose the forgotten, discover that which is hiding.

My specific passion is Chicago night shooting. I quickly learned that when darkness falls, it is there that I always find new life. I want to give society a bit of culture that was neglected and left behind. Something that the average commuter does not ever see.

Try not to just view the world as you would see it, but humble yourself while interpreting as I; the artist does, while creating my masterpiece. Art should ignite a flame in your heart as well as in the soul of the viewer.

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LOU FERRIGNO: When one thinks of Lou Ferrigno, you automatically think of the green monster; the Hulk; a green giant ripping off his clothes and literally growling. What one doesn’t know, is that the actor behind all the makeup, has many dreams, aspirations and wants to make a difference in many people’s lives. Here at Halfstack we had a chance to sit down and talk to this TV legend during Chicago Comic Con. We not only learned about some upcoming films still in production, but also about his past and more future events from this very down-to-earth and inspiring man/icon.

As I first sat down with this massive man (he is over 6’4 and about 230 lbs., large is an understatement); he greeted me with a hug that someone would give to an old friend. He immediately started talking before I could even get a word in. “ I really love Chicago, this city is one of my favorite cities” he exclaims very enthusiastically I may add. Apparently, Lou has a very good friend that lives here and he always looks forward towards visiting him and our city. “ I have been in a few plays in Chicago, most recently at the Drury Lane theatre.” I had no idea that he was acting in plays and especially so close to us. He compared Chicago to New York City. “It is

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Talks with Half Stack about Arnold, Being the Original Hulk, Plays, Movies and Health/Fitness WRITTEN BY: STELLA QUIMBY LAYOUT BY: JENNIFER LEZAN

a big city with lots of people and the food is great.” “That’s why I always come to Chicago’s Comic con, I love this city.”

So what’s it like being an icon?

Lou laughed and said that even now, as a 62 year old man he is still the persona of the hulk.

Unlike the newer hulk’s, he is not computer generated. What you see is what you get! So, what do you think of the current Hulk, I asked him. “He can’t sign autographs, but I can.” Lou laughed due to the fact that before, the actor had to be the hulk. Today it is all computer generated and Bruce Benner can sign autographs but not the actual hulk.

“The Hulk saved the day in the newest Avengers, there should have been more attention on him,” I can see a little bit of bias feelings here, although being a huge hulk fan, I completely agree!

Lou has been very busy recently. When he is not appearing at Comic Con, he is making guest appearances in movies. Apparently, the rumor has it, the new Hulk movie is a go ahead. Lou is said to be making an appearance in it (such as he did in the other ones). Mark Ruffalo and Lou Ferrigno in the same movie; yep I am smiling all around and so are other Hulk fans worldwide.

Yet, his acting appearances don’t

end there, he is also set to be in other comedic films like when he made an appearance in “I love you man.” He recently filmed the comedy, “The Bandit Hound” alongside Judd Nelson and Catherine Bell. The movie is about a dog called Bandit who starts stealing cash to help out his adopted family (I wonder if Bandit has a sibling). Also, Lou plans on going back to the theatre and acting in plays.

What about his health/diet/exercise regime? He is still, at his age of 62, competing in body building competitions and is even a host at many of them. It keeps him in shape he stated. He has also started his own fitness website, ferrignofit.com. The whole motto of his website is “improving lives through health and fitness.”

Lou explained that it is a portal trainer for people. “You can train from anywhere, one doesn’t need a trainer, and you have your own personal trainer with Ferrignofit.”

The website is designed to help one with diet and exercise. “It will help get people fit and into the best shape of their lives.”

So how does the original Hulk stay fit? “Food wise, I stay away from saturated fats, unrefined sugars and starches. I eat all natural food, similar to the paleo diet. I eat very healthy.” Lou also stated that one has to “eat healthy, train healthy, and stay

healthy.” He trains 6 days a week; 45 minutes weight training and 30 minutes cardio. He does a high intensity cardio workout, training fast and intense with only 1 minute max rest in between sets. “It is also about keeping it consistent” he explained.

After our fitness talk, which Lou is passionate about, we chatted about his audition win for the part that would make him worldwide famous and loved, the original Hulk. What many don’t know is that he won the part over rival Arnold Schwarzenegger. “I felt great getting the part over Arnold. But it was going from one plane to another overnight. I started as a body building champion and now I was an actor. I looked in the mirror and asked myself, what are you doing? It took weeks for all of it to sink in.” He stated that being the Hulk was the greatest thing he has ever done because, “everyone loves the Hulk.” Any last words from the original Hulk? “Be nice to yourself, be nice to everybody.” Before I concluded our interview, we had one more important question for this icon; how big were his biceps? “Right now they are between 19-20 inches, usually they are 23 inches” he laughed as he flexed those 20 inchers. As long as he doesn’t get mad or start turning green, we were all good.

WRITER STELLA WITH LOU

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NSpired Thoughts written by: Reynisha Lindsay

“When you’re happy, you enjoy the music but “When you’re happy, you enjoy the music but when you’re sad, you understand the lyrics” – when you’reFrank sad, Ocean you understand the lyrics” – Music Is My Freedom

Frank Ocean

Have you ever had a song stuck in your head? Did either the words or beat make you feel something? If so, it is because the song spoke to you and you related to it. Music by definition is sounds combined in such a way as to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion. While that is definitely a technical view of music, we know music is so much more. It is dynamic, diverse, encompassing, and universal, just to name a few. I could fill this entire article with words that describe music and I would not capture everything that it embodies. Reason being, music transcends mind, body and soul. Music begins where life and dreams intersect. It allows your heart to take over, and your mind to soar. It emotes feelings, memories, and history.

It is a form of expression that touches every facet of life. When I think about music, I remember vignettes of my life – my first dance, first date, falling in love, family picnics, first car, summer break, holidays and so much more. Music has the ability to transport me across time and space. It is the background of my life.

It is funny how a song, in just a few minutes can express everything your feeling. Moreover, it always seems to fit the situation perfectly. It can be as energizing as a cup of coffee and as smooth as a glass of wine. That is because a good song, speaks to your inner being. It can lift your mood, comfort and inspire you. When the music starts to play, the world stops. It is almost like a light switch. When you turn the music on, everything else is off. You are in a world in which you are free to express yourself verbally, physically and emotionally.

What’s more, it does not matter if you are the composer or the listener because the connection is deep I recently read the following quote: 196 When you’re happy, you enjoy the music but when you’re sad, you understand the lyrics – Frank Ocean

This really resonated with me because when I am in a wonderful mood and I hear a great song, I immediately get happy and start singing and moving. I do not even think I listen as much to the words as I do the beat. Some songs just have the ability to evoke dance and movement within your soul. While others make you listen to the story that is behind the beat. I say behind the beat because when a song begins, all you hear are the melodic notes coming together to make a beautiful sound. Nevertheless, a story is there. When you find the story, the connection is made. The song has become your “anthem”, your “song”, your “inspiration”.

The song that became my inspiration some years ago is “Imagine Me” by Kirk Franklin. I heard this song a couple of times before I really listened to the lyrics. I immediately fell in love with the music and the beat of the drumstick on the drum rim. When the song began, I left the present and my mind became lost in the music. I was going through some stuff (as we all do) and then this song found me…and spoke to me.

The first few stanzas are so powerful to me:

Imagine me loving what I see When the mirror looks at me ‘Cause I imagine me In a place of no insecurities And I'm finally happy 'Cause I imagine me

Letting go of all of the ones who hurt me 'Cause they never did deserve me Can you imagine me?

Imagine feeling like you are not able to do something or that you are not worth anything because of what someone has said to you or how he or she has treated you. Then you hear this song and realize that you have to envision your life as you see it. Not how anyone else sees you or limits you. The song is powerful and liberating. It changed my life. Every time I hear “Imagine Me”, it reminds me of how I overcame obstacles and naysayers in my life. If you get a chance, I recommend listening to it.

Another song that has really touched me is “Wide Awake” by Katy Perry. To me that song is about learning a life lesson and being all the wiser for it. I love the empowerment of the lyrics and how the melody builds, as the story gets stronger. I love when she sings, “I wish I knew then what I know now”. Many people say that, meaning they would change what they did in the past in order to have a different outcome. Yet if they knew then what they know now – they would not be who they are now. Did you follow that? Our experiences make us who we are. If we never go through anything, we would be living a dream and thus we would never have the opportunity to be “Wide Awake”.

These are just two of my favorite songs. I love them because they inspire and remind me that I am loved and I am strong. Music has always been an essential part of my life. It gets me started in the morning. It calms my hectic day. It lifts me when I am down and whispers to me until I fall asleep. To me, it is like the air I breathe. I cannot live without air and I cannot live without music. I lose myself in music and at the same time find myself in music. That is the paradox of music. It can be everything or it can be the only thing. Yet in all of this, one truth remains – music is freedom. If only for a few minutes, it allows you to escape to another time and place. It allows you to experience all types of emotions in just a few lines. It allows you to move and dance and share special moments with someone. Its reach is so far, yet its length is so short. Music is my freedom.

If you do not do anything else today, do this one thing. Turn on the music and turn off the world. You just might find yourself.

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