New Eastside News August 2019

VOL. 7 NO. 8

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August 2019

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Navy Pier Ferris wheel operator makes sure riders get a unique look at the city Devonne Pharms, an operator in charge of Navy Pier’s Ferris wheel, tells what it takes to keep one of Chicago’s hottest attractions running smoothly. Photo courtesy Navy Pier

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Biplane pilot brings nostalgia to Air and Water Show Navigating drone laws in local parks Page 7 New Eastside cancer survivor still fighting for others Page 11

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Baby whale born at Shedd Aquarium

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Doorperson of the month: Wade King

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Going green on city rooftops

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| NEWS |

How to Contact Us info@neweastsidecommunity.com

200 E. Randolph St. Suite 5100 Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 690-3092 Editor: Elaine Hyde elaineh@neweastsidecommunity.com Managing Editor Jesse Wright jwright@neweastsidecommunity.com Staff Writers: Elizabeth Czapski Angela Gagnon Stephanie Racine Elisa Shoenberger Copy Editors: Vivien Lee Bob Oswald Layout/Design: Bob Oswald Community Contributors: Jon Cohn

Eastside Enterprises LLC is the publisher of New Eastside News and Streeterville News. Eastside Enterprises has provided local community news to the Chicago area since 2012.

New Eastside News and Streeterville News are monthly papers that use community writers and contributors. The views expressed by community contributors are their own. Eastside Enterprises does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. Eastside Enterprises is independently owned and operated.

Published Aug. 1, 2019 Copyright ©2019. All rights reserved.

At the draw of a window blind, BCBS gets the word out

By Jesse Wright When Blue Cross Blue Shield wants to send a message, they don’t buy a billboard or send out emails—they light up the night sky along the building’s south-facing tower in letters that stretch across several stories.

Blue Cross Blue Shield recently honored nurses with a “We Love Nurses” display. On the Fourth of July, the building showed a message in red, white and blue and prior to that they celebrated Pride month in June.

The lettering is familiar to New Eastsiders, but the story behind the lights may not be.

BCBS spokesperson Colleen Miller said it’s not a high-tech operation.

“It’s just our internal lights that are left on [and] the blinds are left open to show messages,” she said. “It’s very low tech.

It’s literally people going and opening blinds.”

In all, it takes a team of five people to control the window coverings based on a design created in an Excel program. It’s an approach that hasn’t changed much since the tradition began 20 years ago.

The tradition dates to November 1999 when Bears great Walter Payton died.

To honor him, Blue Cross Blue Shield displayed a memorial along the south tower. Blue Cross Blue Shield employee Chris Gillott had the idea to write 34, Payton’s jersey number, along the south tower to honor the football star. From there, a tradition was born.

Miller said the company has used the wall to promote public health.

“We look at it as an asset,” she said, “to send a message to promote community health.”

Other community groups can request a message, though Miller said there are guidelines on what Blue Cross Blue Shield will promote.

“We vet the requests so they’re aligned

Over decades, Blue Cross Blue Shield’s low-tech window messages have become beloved in the New Eastside neighborhood. Here the insurance company displays the message, “honor the fallen.” Photo courtesy BCBS

with our messages,” Miller said. “We don’t do personal messages. It’s not for personal billboarding or that sort of thing.”

When Gillott died in 2013, the company offered “Thanks, Chris” as a farewell to the man who started the New Eastside tradition.

Although the side of the building isn’t visible to many people, Miller said the company will post pictures of the

messages to social media and some of those go viral.

“Talk about low tech, high impact,” she said.

Sports messages are among the most shared. Miller said popular posts were when the Cubs and Blackhawks won championships.

“We get great feedback,” she said. “It’s really about civic pride.”

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| NEWS BRIEFS | Shedd Aquarium welcomes new whale The Shedd Aquarium announced Mauyak (MY-yak), a 38-year-old beluga whale, gave birth to a healthy calf on July 3. The entire birth, from the emergence of the baby’s flukes to complete delivery, took 33 minutes. Both mother and calf are progressing well and will remain under 24-hour observation by Shedd’s animal care team for several months.

Shortly after the birth, the calf swam to the surface and took its first breath, assisted and supported by an attentive Mauyak. The two then began to swim together and bond as Mauyak guided the new arrival around its home. The sex of the calf has yet to be determined. Animal care staff members estimate the calf to be approximately five feet long and weigh about 150 pounds.

Primark fashion opens first Midwest store in Chicago Primark is planning to bring its “Amazing Fashion at Amazing Prices” to the Midwest for the first time.

International retailer Primark in July announced it will open its first store in the Midwest in Chicago. Primark has signed a lease with The Georgetown Company for 35 N. State St., the largest lease on State Street since 2014.

The company has not announced an opening date yet. The location is a former GAP store.

Primark will take over the entire 45,000-square-foot building and trade from 36,200 square feet of retail space over three levels. Before an opening date is announced the iconic property is undergoing a complete renovation tailored to fit Primark’s specific needs, including modernization of the exterior and complete interior remodeling.

Located at the intersection of State and Washington Streets, the location is home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, entertainment options, cultural institutions and world-famous landmarks. The neighborhood has long been known as one of the top shopping destinations in the United States.

“Primark has been searching for a

Midwest location as part of the company’s continued expansion into the United States,” said Tom Meager, Property Director for Primark. “We are fortunate to have found and secured such an impressive location in the heart of the vibrant Chicago market.”

Police report string of thefts in Michigan Ave. stores

According to a warning police issued in July, several groups of young people are targeting Michigan Ave. retail stores for thefts.

The thefts began in early June, spanned through early July, and were committed in stores in the 400 block of Michigan Ave. According to a news release, in each incident, multiple offenders entered retail stores, loaded merchandise into bags, and exited the store. Eight incidents were reported and in all cases, the thieves fled on foot. The suspects worked in the afternoon or evening and the thefts occurred on weekends and on weekdays.

The police have made no arrests, though the suspects include one-to-six African American adults, aged 18-25 and one-to-three African American women, ages unknown.

Carr Workplaces raising funds for education Carr Workplaces, 200 E Randolph St., a New Eastside short-term shared workspace, is raising money to help disadvantaged students.

According to a news release, Oliver Carr Jr., founder of Carr Workplaces, has long sought to address poverty through education. In 2012, Carr created Rising Stars, a private foundation that raises money for schools that provide superior education to children with difficult backgrounds.

The company’s annual backpack drive raises funds for Rising Stars and all donations are given to schools to help cover the cost of tuition for a child of limited means.

Through August, anyone can donate to risingstars.org to help pay for someone’s education.

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The Chicago City Council introduced 20 mile per hour speed limits on area roads.

Turn to News Briefs, Page 4

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PD hopes residents feel safe in New Eastside

By Stephanie Racine Staff Writer During the July CAPS meeting, police addressed safety concerns.

Many residents said they noticed heavy motorcycle traffic over the Fourth of July weekend. One resident reported seeing hundreds of motorcycles on Lake Shore Dr. heading north. Another resident was concerned about the motorcycles on Lower Wacker Dr. and wanted to know if police would assign officers to patrol the area.

Officers Veronica Meraz and Necole Bryson informed residents that there is currently a Thursday to Sunday initiative on Lower Wacker to watch for any illegal motorcycle activity.

They also believe there has been

a decrease in motorcycle activity, due to increased police presence, and the department does not receive as many complaints.

As for any other motorcycle incidents, Bryson reminded residents to inform police.

“What we need you guys to do is call 911 when you see these things,” Bryson said.

Other residents said they feel unsafe in the area. Some are intimidated walking home late in the evening as they did not feel any officers were nearby.

Bryson assured residents that part of an officer’s job when assigned to the area is to patrol.

“If you need more patrol, we would be happy to do that,” Bryson said. She said patrol officers would be more visible.

The new electric scooter

program was also an issue of concern. Although the scooters are geofenced to certain areas in Chicago and are not permitted in New Eastside, residents have spotted them being used in the neighborhood—and on the lakefront path. A representative from Alderman Reilly’s office recommended residents email photos of any rentable motorized scooters spotted to office@ward42chicago.com.

The officers reminded residents that summertime is full of visitors to our area and to stay vigilant, but to know police are prepared for any number of incidents.

“We want you to feel safe, please call 911. Please use your city services,” Bryson said.

NEWS BRIEFS Continued from page 3

Cirrus releases new interior renderings, expects to break ground in Sept.

In late July, Cirrus developers began to stage the construction site for the proposed 47-story condo unit.

This included installing barricades and fencing, though the groundbreaking is not scheduled until September.

At present, pedestrian traffic will be diverted, though the project will not yet impact vehicular traffic.

LendLease, one of the developers, has released some new interior renderings showcasing the views from several of the planned 363 units.

The units will range from 650 to 3,000 square feet and will be priced anywhere from $400,000 to

A new interior rendering of the Cirrus project. Courtesy of LendLease

$4 million and will include one-tofour bedroom plans, two townhome residences at ground level and 15 penthouse units on the top floors.

Pre-sale for the 211 N. Harbor Drive units started in April, and according to LendLease, sales have been healthy. The Cirrus development will later be joined by two other units. All three buildings are designed by New Eastside’s bKL Architecture.

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| COMMUNITY CORNER |

Doorperson of the Month Wade King at Aqua

By Jesse Wright Wade King is approaching his 10th year as doorperson at the Aqua. It’s his first job as a doorperson and he said he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

“They treat me right and they pay me good,” he said with a laugh.

King said a friend referred him to the position, and he hasn’t looked back.

“The variety of people has always been a draw,” he said. “You meet all different types of people from all walks of life and from everywhere and different ages.

This building is a melting pot.”

Besides the residents of the 900-unit building, King said he has to help lost Radisson guests who mistakenly wander into the residents’ entrance and even the Wade King is the New Eastside Doorperson of the odd sight-seer who, armed with Month. Photo by Jesse Wright an architecture map, wanders “It’s the best city in the world. I’ll visit into the Jeanne Gang-designed building anywhere, but this is home,” he said. “It’s seeking information. got everything. It’s got a lakefront, you got “It’s one of the more popular buildings buildings, you got suburbs, good food, because of the design. People go on an good music and we’ve got all the seasons.” architecture tour and have questions and When he’s not working, King spends his you have to answer their questions,” he free time drawing and bowling. King said said. “We have to field all types of queshe grew up bowling with his parents, and tions. We pretty much have to know it all. he’s still in a league with his mom. King We’re like a human kiosk.”

However, King is quick to point out The said his personal best is bowling a 275, but Aqua staffs two people at the door, and he don’t ask him how he did it.

“I wish I knew because I would have said he would not be able to deliver the gotten the 300 if I knew what it was,” King same kind of service without a partner. said. “It was one of those days that everyResident Sean Hayes, who nominated thing you throw comes up and it’s like, King, said King is knowledgeable enough alright. But I’m still trying to get that 300, to train other doorpeople. and when I get to 300 I’ll probably quit.

“Wade King and (prior doorperson of Mission accomplished.” the month) Josh Harris should start their own consulting company as expert door To nominate your favorite doorperson, staff training and management consultants to be hired by property management email info@neweastsidecommunity.com with the door person’s name and why you companies, like Magellan, throughout Chicago and then later expand nationally,” think they should be the doorperson of the month. Each winner will receive a $25 gift Hayes wrote in an email. card to Mariano’s.

But for King, Chicago is home.

Pet Month of the

BROUGHT TO YOU BY EAST SIDE VETERINARY CLINIC The August pet of the month is Nacho, a business dog with an office in the Prudential Building. On a warm day, this 11-year-old Jack Russell mix was on a walk with office employee Kalli Olewinski who reported Nacho enjoys treats at the office as well as all the attention he gets from other employees. “He gets so pampered and spoiled,” she said.

The New Eastside News’ August pet of the month is sponsored by East Side Veterinary Clinic, a local full-service clinic, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

EAST

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VETERINARY CLINIC

333 East Benton Place Suite 205 (312) 753-5551 www.myeastsidevet.com

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Streeterville park offers green oasis due, in part, to innovative deception

By Jesse Wright As residents move into the newly-opened One Bennett Park luxury skyscraper, the building’s flagship amenity—the two-acre Bennett Park—prepares to open Aug. 6.

By all expectations, the public park is shaping up to be equal in its design and ambition as the skyscraper next door. The park, designed by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, the firm behind Maggie Daley Park in New Eastside, seems to offer something for everyone.

“Bennett Park includes an inspired children’s play bowl with innovative playground equipment, two dog runs, a lawn bowl for gathering and a shady grove and meandering pathways with native plantings, flowering trees and design elements such as stone formations,” said Annie McDonell, the director of marketing for project developer Related Midwest. “[The park is] open space that serves as a respite within the city for all generations,” McDonell said. She added that the park, “enriches the neighborhood, builds community, and enhances the health and well-

Bennett Park, a two-acre park in Streeterville, offers something for everyone. Photo by Jesse Wright

ness of those living at One Bennett Park.”

But the beauty belies the brains behind the project because the park is as every bit as modern as its namesake luxury skyscraper and this oasis owes more to engineering than mother nature.

Three people assaulted on Washington St. According to the Chicago Police Department, two people were stabbed and another person was hit July 6 at 11:25 in the 100 block of E. Washington St. According to a police report, one black man and one black woman approached three victims, talked with them and then stabbed two and hit the other person. The offenders then ran off.

The police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the attackers. The male is about 6-foot or 6-foot-one-inch tall and has dreads while the female wears her hair in a braid.

If anyone is a victim, police recommend calling 911 immediately and if anyone has information about this incident they should call the bureau of detectives at 312-747-8380.

Constrained on one side by Illinois Street and on all other sides by a high rise, the landscape architects relied on design to turn the rectangular plot into a park.

“The undulating topography and earthen mounds not only serve as a strong contrast

to the flatness of the public streets and sidewalks, they add dimension to the space,” explained McDonell. “This dimensional element of the design incorporates abundant plantings and rolling topography along the edges of every pathway and around the central lawn bowl, giving the park a lush and spacious feel.”

The rolling landscape covered by prairie grasses and bushes are also something of a design trick. Dig down deep enough and there’s a parking garage. What appears at first as green prairie is actually a garage roof, meaning developers had to create a lightweight prairie facsimile. The small, rolling hills? They’re fake.

“To make the undulating topography that gives the park its character, horticultural soil was piled atop lightweight styrofoam structures, which are eco-friendly and very durable,” McDonell said. “By using lightweight foam as the underlying structure to create rolling topography, we kept the soil limits low, allowing more bandwidth to add plantings and trees and still stay under the weight limits of what the garage structure can support.”

City council passes stricter drag racing, drifting penalties In the last week of July, the Chicago City Council passed Alderman Brendan Reilly’s drag racing and drifting ordinance, which will increase the fines for drag racing and drifting to at least $5,000 but no more than $10,000 per offense.

The ordinance also establishes a $500 fine for operating a motor vehicle with an altered muffler within the City of Chicago.

Reilly has been working with the Chicago Police Depart-

ment and the Chicago Department of Transportation to combat the issue of dangerous drag racing and drifting on Lower Wacker Drive.

According to a press release, Reilly believes that his new ordinance will help deter drivers from partaking in this illegal behavior, and will assist the Chicago Police Department in combating this issue. The ordinance will take effect Sept. 28.

Woman sexually assaulted following Randolph St. theft A woman had her phone snatched and was then sexually assaulted on Randolph St. between 3 and 3:40 a.m. on July 9.

According to police, a 27-year-old female was waiting at a Red Line platform at State and Lake when an unknown black male took her phone and started running.

She chased him down the street and eventually to the 100 block of East Randolph at which point the offender ran into an underground parking garage stairwell. The victim followed and the offender sexually assaulted the victim in the stairwell, and then fled on foot.

No one is in custody, though police describe the suspect as black man, 25-35 years old, wearing long black dreads and, at the time, a red or black hat, a black t-shirt, black pants, black shoes and a dark, multi colored backpack.The victim was transported to Northwestern in stable condition.

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| FEATURES |

Navigating drone laws may be tricky for operators in Chicago

By Elisa Shoenberger Staff Writer While it may be tempting to fly a drone downtown, whether to get a bird’s eye view of the Lollapalooza crowd or a unique shot of the skyline, it may be impossible to do so legally.

Chicago’s laws allow drone operators to fly their craft with a permit, but according to afficionados, getting a permit is near impossible thanks to confusing, byzantine rules.

“All drones are restricted unless given a permit for flying,” said Anthony Guglielmi, Chief Communications Officer of Chicago Police Department.

In addition to a permit, operators have to get permission from the property owner and in the case of Grant Park, that would be the Chicago Parks District.

Without that permission Buckingham Fountain is a tempting place for drone operaand without a permit, oper- tors despite city restrictions. Photo by Elisa Shoenberger ators face citations. getting a permit from the park district Jeffrey Antonelli is a drone enthusiast and while he’s heard some success stories, and also a lawyer, and he believes the he’s been unable to get one. city’s laws wouldn’t stand up in court.

“The city doesn’t have a uniform anAntonelli points out that since the Fedswer,” Antonelli said. eral Aviation Administration regulates A spokesperson for the parks district air space and not the city, Chicago’s air could not explain how to get a permit. regulations would probably be thrown The FAA mandates that people cannot out if someone challenged them in court.

Nevertheless, Antonelli said he doesn’t fly fly drones over people or cars for safety concerns and pilots must be able to see drones in the city. their drone at all times and they cannot Alan Perlman, CEO of UAV Coach, a fly higher than 400 feet. drone training company, said the FAA Perlman said people should first learn classified Grant Park airspace as Class G, how to use their drone. meaning it is uncontrolled airspace, so “You are bringing a flying lawnmower recreational drone pilots should be able to into the air. It’s really important to have fly there under federal law. intimate understanding of how the airEven so, getting a permit is hard. craft works.”

Antonelli said some people have tried

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The face behind the voice of city’s Air and Water Show

Chicago biplane pilot’s Big Red a throwback to WWII-era aircraft

By Elisa Shoenberger Staff Writer

By Jesse Wright

Chicago-based pilot Susan Dacy with her biplane Big Red.

Susan Dacy does aerial acrobatics in her biplane, leaving behind a plume of environmentally safe smoke. Photos courtesy Susan Dacy

bright red, 450 horsepower Super Stearman named Big Red. Although biplanes are among the earliest planes, the Super Stearman is a WWII-era plane, developed as a reliable craft for young pilots to learn to fly. Because of their reliability and their ubiquity, Dacy said quite a few planes were retired after the war and they flooded the civilian market.

“This type of plane trained bunches and bunches of cadets,” she said. “They made Army and Navy versions so they had gobs and gobs of these airplanes after the war. A lot of bombers and things like that

were crushed up melted down and repurposed but a lot of the Stearmans luckily survived because it was determined they were good for crop dusters.”

It’s a Stearman crop duster that chases Cary Grant in “North by Northwest.”

Dacy’s plane was used in air shows before she bought it. Aside from a new engine, a new “skin” and some aileron flaps, it’s the same plane as the cadets would have piloted in training.

“It’s been a plane that’s pretty much worked its whole life,” she said. “It’s never been in a shed col-

lecting dust.”

Later this month it will be at it again. Although the pilot schedule isn’t set until the day of the show—weather affects what planes can perform—Dacy offered a behind-the-scenes sense of what audiences can expect.

Like all the other pilots, Dacy will take off from Indiana but Big Red is the only biplane scheduled for the day.

Dacy said audiences can expect “barnstormer-type moves,” including some twists and circles, shooting her craft high into the sky before tumbling back down to earth and ending in a barrel roll.

While her performance may shock, surprise or even make audiences anxious, the one person who won’t be wowed is Dacy.

“Of course, we know what to expect, so it’s almost everything seems routine,” she said. Dacy said she’s got an exit plan in case of the worst, but said she doesn’t worry about it.

“You’re always thinking that stuff and it’s not being fatalistic but it’s just common sense,” she said. “But my airplane is so reliable, and of course I make sure maintenance is performed regularly.”

Golden Knights, Blue Angels headline 61st annual event by the lake

By Elisa Shoenberger Staff Writer

Golden Knights in formation over Chicago. Photo courtesy the Golden Knights

AUGUST 2019 / 9

| CHICAGO AIR AND WATER SHOW |

| CHICAGO AIR AND WATER SHOW |

The Chicago Air and Water show may be famous for its display of high-powered state-of-the art aircraft, but one airplane featured this year is not like the others.

Chicago-based pilot Susan Dacy’s biplane is a throwback to pre-war piloting, to a time before jet engines, but her performance is no less technical and it is no less thrilling.

Dacy, one of the pilots featured at the Chicago Air and Water Show Aug. 17-19, is one of the few female pilots in the U.S. performing in a biplane. But this isn’t her first Air and Water show. Dacy is a commercial pilot and, when she’s not doing tricks during her day job, she tours the country performing rolls, spins and other acrobatic tricks. She said she started in the 1990s and her decades of acrobatic performances is the realization of a goal she’s had since she was a kid and went to her first airshow.

“Of all the performances, what impacted me was the biplane,” she said. “It had the smoke trail and it was loud and it really excited me. I always remembered that.”

The early inspiration is reflected in Dacy’s plane, a

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The U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and the U.S. Navy Parachute Team Leap Frogs will headline the 61st annual Chicago Air and Water Show, set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 17-18.

Last year’s show drew an estimated 1 million people, said Mary May, Public Relations and Media Specialist at DCASE.

The show will also feature the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team The Red Arrows from the United Kingdom.

Nineteen other groups will be performing with nine military demonstrations and ten civilian teams.

This year’s special guests, the RAF Red Arrows have performed nearly 5,000 times in 57 countries since 1965, according to a City of Chicago news release. The Red Arrows will perform in more than 20 displays in the U.S. and Canada on its first North Ameri-

can tour in 11 years, according to the Red Arrows website.

To get the Red Arrows’ Hawk T1 jets to North America, they will be flown over three days, the tour website said. They will have 12 Hawk aircraft and 1 Atlas A400M RAF transport aircraft. The tour will include 108 people, “including pilots, engineers and support staff.”

A regular of the Air and Water Show, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels includes 16 officers. The Commanding

Officer, known as the “Boss” who flies the number 1 jet, is required to “have at least 3,000 tactical jet flight-hours and have commanded a tactical jet squadron,” according to the Blue Angels website. Officers in jets 2 through 8 must “have an aircraft carrier qualification and a minimum of 1,250 tactical jet flight-hours.”

The U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights was founded in 1959 but received its name in 1962 due to all the gold medals the Knights

had won, according to the Golden Knights website.

“The team has earned the U.S. Army 2,148 gold, 1,117 silver, and 693 bronze medals in national and international competition,” the site said. “Team members have also broken 348 world records.” The Golden Knights currently have nearly 95 men and women, including four parachute units and five aircraft, according to their website. They perform annually in over 100 events.

Captain Herb Hunter has been the Voice of the Chicago Air and Water Show for 32 years.

“Talk about living your dream,” said Hunter, now a retired lieutenant colonel.

“I’ve been lucky to do that.”

He went to Olivet Nazarene University where he sang gospel. He explained that he was a bashful kid raised by his grandmother but gospel music “brought me out of my shell.”

Hunter’s fascination with planes, which started when he was five years old, has followed him through many careers. He flew in the U.S. Air Force, the Illinois Air National Guard and United Airlines. He flew in the Chicago Air and Water show in 1979 and 1980 and then served as Supervisor of Flying, the military representative on the platform for two years.

“After flying in the show, I knew I wanted to be part of the show,” Hunter said.

He then got to announce for the KC135 ILANG from 1983-1987 until he was invited to be the voice for the entire show in 1988. That’s where he has been ever since.

To prepare for the show, Hunter has a sticker-covered plastic briefcase, bought in 1988, that contains his showbook for every show with notes on everybody he’s worked with.

Hunter said he doesn’t have a script prepared.

“It allows me to do what is important for the show, which is to transmit my knowledge and emotion to the crowd, and that helps make the show better,” he said.

Hunter makes direct eye contact with a few people near the stage to “feel like I’m having a personal conversation. I want to get an emotional reaction from whom I’m talking to.”

He’s thrilled he has had the opportunity to announce the Air and Water Show for

Captain Herb Hunter narrates the Chicago Air and Water Show. Photo courtesy City of Chicago

so many years and impart his enthusiasm and knowledge to children and parents.

Hunter explained the delight he’s had working with people at the show who have grown up listening to his narration.

Hunter said what makes a person successful is “whether you have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, and the air show allows me to do this.”

“Airplanes bring out the kid in all of us,” he said.

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| FEATURES |

Meadows in the skies

A closer look at the growing, green rooftops in the city

By Jesse Wright High above the streets, there are fields throughout the city filled with wildflowers, grasses, trees and even crops.

A growing rooftop greening movement is transforming the downtown environment and, according to Molly Meyer, it’s also improving the buildings.

Meyer, CEO and founder of Omni Ecosystems, an organization that designs sustainable green infrastructure, said her firm has developed rooftop farms and prairies. She said the green trend gained steam about 15 years ago and it’s been going strong ever since.

“In the mid 2000s there were a huge number of green roofs developed,” she said.

Now, every neighborhood in the city has green roofs, mostly only observable from higher floors on neighboring buildings.

But while they may be invisible to most people, they’re still important.

“The top of the McDonald’s headquarters in West Loop is a 20,000 square foot wildlife meadow,” Meyer said. “That’s an important habitat for native butterflies.”

Their green roof includes crops which the company hopes to deliver to the community.

“At McDonald’s headquarters, as employees and visitors collaborate on the ninth floor open work space and outdoor terrace, they are standing directly under one of the premier sustainability features of the headquarters: the green roof,” McDonald’s spokes-

person Anne Christensen said.

“The green roof boasts a garden with food for harvest and is purifying the air in the West Loop.

The garden includes buckwheat, carrots, wheat, radishes, as these items are good for promoting strong soil. Harvesting soon, we hope to partner with a community organization to help us share our crops.”

In Streeterville, Navy Pier got into the game a year ago, when it developed its new welcome center. The center, to the right of the entrance, near Polk Bros Park, features a roof sloping down to the sidewalk and as visitors walk along the south side of the building, the concrete facade gives way to a meadow, complete with two bee boxes, which are a permanent fixture in the meadow.

Michael Thompson, an apiarist and farm manager at Chicago Honey Co-op who manages the boxes for the pier, said in the few months since the boxes have been installed, they have already produced 30-40 pounds of honey.

In just two bee boxes, Navy Pier is home to some 50,000 Italian bees.

According to Savitha Chelladurai, the Navy Pier’s sustainability program manager, the pier will use the honey at various restaurants. She said the rooftop project makes good sense for the Pier.

“The creation of a green roof at the People’s Energy Welcome Pavilion helps to mitigate heat island effects and create a cooler environment for our guests,” said Chelladurai. “In addition, the native plants used at the Pier lead

McDonald’s headquarters’ rooftop gardens boast a wildflower meadow. Photo courtesy Omni Ecosystems LLC

A monarch butterly rests on a flower on Navy Pier’s green roof. Photo

by Jesse Wright

Sam Irwin of Omni Ecosystems shows off how his company can turn a building’s roof into a green space. Photo by Jesse Wright

to better storm-water management and require little fertilizer or chemical applicants.”

The Pier isn’t alone.

“Downtown we have nine bee locations and they’re all on roofs,” Thompson said.

In addition to bees, Meyer said

the greenspaces are habitats for birds and small insects like grasshoppers, likely dropped by birds.

But the roofs offer more than an ecosystem.

Green rooftops are growing in popularity because the city mandates new construction be

“green” or energy efficient, she said, and rooftops help achieve that goal.

“There is a benefit to extending the life of the roof membrane and a green roof protects that,” she said. “And there’s the storm water benefit and energy saving benefit too.”

Besides the buildings, the rooftops also help the city.

“It’s important to make sure the built environment gets more sustainable and resilient,” she said.

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| NEWS |

Navy Pier Ferris wheel offers unique look at the city On a good day during the week, Phams said they get close to 3,500 people on the Ferris wheel, but the number rises to 8,000 during the weekend. It can hold up to 420 people at a time The Navy Pier Ferris wheel is an iconic sight with 8-10 people per gondola. for tourists and Chicagoans.

The Centennial Wheel operates year round; Standing nearly 200 feet high, the Centenwith air conditioning for the hot summer nial Wheel is a behemoth, weighing 992,080 months and heating for the cooler months. The pounds, powered by 8 motors with over 10,000 Ferris wheel team monitors weather conditions, bolts connecting the machine together.

Devonne Phams whether it is ice accumulation in the winter or Devonne Phams, Senior Guest Experience thunderstorms. For safety precautions, the Ferris wheel is Manager, and his staff are responsible for making sure shut down if lightning strikes within 5 miles of Navy Pier. riders have a great experience.

At night, the Ferris wheel staff closes windows that Phams has been with Navy Pier for 6 years, starting as guests may have opened during the day, collect and turn an attraction attendant and working through the ranks to in any lost items and lock and secure the Ferris wheel for be promoted to Senior Guest Experience Manager. Part the night. And the cycle begins the next day. of his role is managing the staff who run the Ferris wheel, Phams’ favorite part of the job is the people. who ensure that guests have “a safe but fun time.”

“We get people from all over the world,” he said. “They Safety is a big part of their work, he said. Each morning, are totally amazed by the new Ferris wheel itself.”

Phams’ team checks the Centennial Wheel to make sure A particular moment that stands out for Phams is the everything is operational. They open and close doors, annual Camp One Step. A nonprofit dedicated to provide check the video screens and PA systems (in case a guest educational and fun experiences for children with cancer needs to contact the operator), as well as making sure the brings a group of kids to Navy Pier to ride the Ferris 42 gondolas are clean.

By Elisa Shoenberger Staff Writer

Cancer survivor runs to raise funds

By Jesse Wright New Eastside resident Alan Goldman remembers what it was like when he got the news he had prostate cancer 12 years ago. It was during a routine physical.

“My first thought was, this is the first time I was exposed to something so severe, that could affect my entire life,” he said. “I wanted to fight it aggressively, and I wanted it out of my body ASAP.” The prostate is a small gland useful for reproduction found only in men. It is also a common source of cancer—after skin cancer it is the second-most common form of cancer in men.

Goldman made it through OK and these days, he is fit and healthy.

“The surgery was very

successful,” he said. “I’m very healthy. I’m one of the lucky ones I guess.”

But he is not done fighting—if not for himself, then for other men.

For the past three years, Goldman has been raising money and running in SEA Blue Chicago Prostate Cancer Walk and Run. This year’s run is Sept. 9 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lincoln Park.

The walk and run is Chicago’s oldest prostate cancer fundraiser and it raises money for Us TOO International, a nonprofit that supports men who are dealing with prostate cancer and their families.

“I wanted to get involved in something that’s had a big impact on my life,” he said.

Goldman did more than get involved. He is now on

New Eastside resident Alan Goldman. Photo by Jesse Wright

the board of Us TOO, and he is co-chair of the SEA Blue walk and run. Goldman’s charity work helps hundreds, if not thousands of people.

“The money goes to support groups around the United States and we have over 200 support groups,” he said.

To sign up for the charity walk and run, visit ustoo.rallybound.org.

View of the Centennial Wheel on a clear Chicago day. Photos courtesy Navy Pier

wheel. Each year, they put together a campfire song for Phams. “It’s really awesome,” he said.

Phams invites people to check out the Ferris wheel.

The view from the top is phenomenal. There’s nothing like it in the city,” he said.

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What to consider before selling your condo

By Sheetal Balani

A Baroque palace kitchen and dining room, with honed marble, custom cabinetry and thick marble, are a few of this residence’s incredible finishes. Photo courtesy Urban Real Estate

Getting to the finish line Decorating and upgrade tips from one of New Eastside’s newest gems to hit the market

By Urban Real Estate Deciding how to invest in a condo remodel is always a balance between the improvements made for your own enjoyment and those made with the expectation that they will positively increase the value of a home.

High-end finishes and appliances are a great way to start, however, not everyone will pay for your gold toilet or you pink granite.

Others may see your finishes as a detriment, costing you more at the closing table.

So what’s the right solution? Michael Emery, senior partner and broker at Urban Real Estate, recommends having a plan, and sticking to it.

“If you are trying to make your house your home, be bold and invest smartly in finishes, flooring, molding and appliances.

That will add value, but also make you feel like your home is your palace. Any time you have a thoughtful color scheme, top-notch touches and a home that looks stellar, you will do well,” he said.

The New Eastside brokerage recently signed a contract for a new listing at 400 E. Randolph, Unit 2119, that is certain to

break records.

“This particular listing is done right and is a true palace in the sky,” Emery said.

“There is not a single detail left untouched in this two bedroom, two bathroom, 1,250 square foot residence. Everything from its oversized entrance, to the crystal wall sconces, paired with its ceiling moldings and perimeter lighting, this home is show-stopping in every way, a true hidden gem in the heart of our neighborhood.”

The home also boasts hues in gold leaf and crepe antique, an open plan kitchen with thick marble, an elegant breakfast bar, a handmade mosaic glass wall in the master bath and a redesigned layout with hidden features for unusual—yet clever— storage areas.

“This home is the perfect example of class, finishes and appliances which all will help bring in top dollar for this home,” Emery said.

The listing price is $715,000. For more information on this incredible residence, contact Michael Emery at (312) 528-9288 or email Michael@urbanre.com, or visit UrbanRealEstate.com for 400 E. Randolph, Unit 2119.

Last year, as I was preparing to list a River North condo, I discovered a problem.

The condo was facing major litigation and the homeowners association (HOA) was bleeding cash fighting the lawsuit.

Its reserves were dwindling, so to bring in some revenue, the HOA levied a $1 million special assessment—essentially a one-time fee to condo owners and potentially any new buyers to bring in revenue—and overnight, every lender I contacted backed out of financing the purchase.

Since the HOA was in poor shape, only cash buyers could purchase in the building, drastically limiting the pool of buyers.

This was bad news for the sellers and unfortunately, this situation is not uncommon. The fact is, selling a condo isn’t as simple as selling a house.

Condominiums have their own advantages and challenges and sellers should know a few things before they explore the market.

First, your condo is only as good as your HOA. HOAs charge each unit owner a monthly assessment as part of the association. This fee covers maintenance of the building’s exterior and any common areas, as well as a master insurance policy for the building, door staff, building engineers, maintenance and a property manager. The fee also possibly pays for some utilities such as water, gas, internet and cable. Each HOA is also responsible for maintaining a cash account, called reserves, to cover future operating expenses, as well as special projects such as tuckpointing or a new roof.

Why does this matter? If your condo association does not have sufficient money in reserve and a major capital expenditure arises, this could mean residents must pay a special assessment— extra fees to cover the cost of repairs that exceed the current budget.

If there is a special assessment due when you are selling your condo, the buyer may expect you to pay for it, or they may decide to simply move onto a different building. It’s important to be aware of the financial health of your HOA before you decide to list your home.

More than likely the buyer will need to get financing. The buyer’s lender will do their due diligence and examine your HOA documents and the association’s financial records, any pending or current litigation and the percentage of owner-occupants versus renter-occupants.

All of these factors are critical for a successful loan. If the lender determines the reserves are insufficient, uncovers pending litigation or discovers the ratio of renters versus owners is unfavorable, that could mean the buyer’s loan is declined.

These are just a handful of issues the seller has to consider before getting the property on the market. However, if the seller works with an experienced real estate advisor, all of those challenges can be overcome with experience and skill.

Sheetal Balani is a senior broker at Compass, with over 15 years experience in residential real estate. Contact her at (312) 863-9555 or Sheetal.Balani@Compass.com

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| NEW EASTSIDE EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com.

Fridays

Shabbat dinner and services For all of August, Chicago Loop Synagogue, 16 S. Clark St., will host Shabbat dinner and orthodox services for the public. The three-course kosher dinner will include chicken, sides, wine and dessert. The cost is $36, payable in advance. This is a test-run and if the services are success, the synagogue will continue the program year-round.

Reservations can be made at (312) 3467370, chiloopsyn.org Live Music Fridays at Swissotel Every Friday, 6 p.m. the Swissotel welcomes guests for free live music on a first come, first serve basis. 323 E. Wacker Dr, (312) 565-0565, swissotel.com

Saturdays

Chill Out at the Fairmont THE BAR at the Fairmont offers a “chilled out” event with snow cones and a live DJ from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. 200 N. Columbus Drive, (312) 565-8000, fairmont.com Little Squirrels Storytime Bring preschool-age children to the American Writers Museum to read, play with other children, and hear a story from museum volunteers at 10:30 a.m. Free. Museum admittance not included. 180 N. Michigan Ave, second floor, (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org

Aug. 1

J. Michael Straczynski: Becoming Superman The American Writers Museum welcomes science-fiction and comics writer J. Michael Straczynski as he presents his memoir, “Becoming Superman” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Straczynski has written for Marvel, DC Comics and several original comic book series. He’s also written for sci-fi TV and films. Books will be sold and signed at the event. Tickets available at americanwritersmuseum.org. $12, 180 N. Michigan Ave., second floor, (312) 374-8790

August Races Stan’s Donuts 5K/kids run - 8 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 10 - Soldier Field BTN Big 10K, 5K - Sunday, Aug. 11 - Grant Park Divine Nine 5K - 8 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 17 - Jackson Park Chicago Triathlon - 6 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 25 - Monroe Harbor

available at bluyoga.eventbrite.com. 221 N. Columbus Drive, (312) 565-5258

Aug. 5

Love Love Love—Chicago Celebrates the Music of Donny Hathaway Led by music director Corey Wilkes, the music of classic R&B and soul master, Donny Hathaway will be showcased.

Free, Millennium Park

IL PAMS 5K Run for Peru - 9 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 25 - Lincoln Park

Aug. 1-4

ent wines every first Wednesday of the month with III Forks. August will feature wines from Germany at 5 p.m.

Reservations required. $25. 180 N. Field Blvd., (312) 938-4303, 3forks. com/chicago Karl Marlantes: Deep River Bestselling author Karl Marlantes presents his new novel “Deep River” at the American Writer’s Museum at 6:30 p.m.

The novel focuses on a Finnish family facing the repercussions of Russia imperial rule. Books will be sold and signed at the event. $12 general admission, members free. 180 N. Michigan Ave., second floor, (312) 374-8790

Lollapalooza This is a four-day music festival in Grant Park, featuring artists such as Ariana Grande, The Strokes, Childish Gambino, and The Chainsmokers. Tickets available online and at the box office. Box office located at the intersection of Ida B. Wells and Michigan Ave. Tickets start at $130 for oneday general admission, lollapalooza.com

Mambo Kings: Hot Latin Nights feat. Grant Park Orchestra Presenting Tito Puente’s Afro-Cuban jazz with instances of jazz great Dave Brubeck and the Beatles at 6:30 p.m.

Grant Park Music Festival, Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Free on a first come, first serve basis. Reserved seats available for purchase at grantparkmusicfestival.com

Aug. 2-3

Aug. 8

Mozart Prague Symphony feat. Grant Park Orchestra Principal Conductor Carlos Kalmar and violinist Vadim Gluzman present Serenade, along with Jennifer Higdon’s blue cathedral and Mozart’s Prague Symphony at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 3. 205 E. Randolph. Free seating in the balcony and rear of orchestra on a first come, first serve basis

Through Aug. 31

Millennium Park Summer Workouts Saturdays, 7-11 a.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:30-8:15 a.m., Free.

Aug. 4, 11

Summer Sundays Yoga The Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel offers a terrace yoga class instructed by Athleta ambassador Monica Bright at 9 a.m. All levels welcome. Class concludes with a mimosa, for participants over 21, included in the ticket price. Tickets are $10 and

Daytime showing of Inside Out At Millennium Park, 10:30 a.m. Free.

This is In collaboration with Chicago’s Children Theater.

Aug. 6

Animal Encounters: Raptors!

Meet and learn about birds of prey.

Experts from Wings and Talons will answer questions. All-ages, no registration required. Chicagoans will get a chance to see raptors up close courtesy of Wings and Talons. At Lurie Garden, Millennium Park from 6 to 8 p.m., free, (312) 228-1004, www.luriegarden.org/event/raptors-12 The Muppet Movie Screened at Jay Pritzker pavilion in Millennium Park, 6:30 p.m., free

Aug. 7

III Forks Wine Tasting Enjoy a wine tasting from six differ-

Liquid Passport: Italy Skip the flight and experience Italy on the 80th floor of the Aon Center at The Mid-America Club. From 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Enjoy an evening of Italian cuisine from the Mid-America Club’s chef ’s own family cookbook, live entertainment, homemade Limoncello.

Tickets $25 per person and attire is business casual. RSVP to the Club at (312)-856-9484 or email Melissa.czyz@ clubcorp.com

Aug. 9

A Mass of Life: A Celebration of the Human Spirit, feat. Grant Park Orchestra An orchestral performance of Frederick Delius’ “A Mass of Life” with an expanded chorus and vocalists at 6:30 p.m.

Grant Park Music Festival, Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Free on a first come, first serve basis. Reserved seats available for purchase at grantparkmusicfestival.com Events continue on page 14

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| NEW EASTSIDE EVENTS | Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information. To submit events or advertise on this page, email info@neweastsidecommunity.com. lese rumba style band will perform music from their first and second albums at 6:30p.m., free, Millennium Park Deborah Blum: The Poison Squad Pulitzer Prize winner Deborah Blum presents her new book “The Poison Squad” which recounts the history of food safety in the United States at 6:30 p.m. Books will be sold and signed at the event. $12 general admission, members free. 180 N. Michigan Ave, second floor, (312) 374-8790

Aug. 16-17

There is still plenty to do this summer at Maggie Daley Park. Photo courtesy of Magie Daley Park

Aug. 10

Aloha Bouldering at Maggie Daley All levels are welcome. Kids competition (Ages 8-16) is 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Adult competition is 1 to 4 p.m. Online registration ends Aug. 8 at 6 p.m. $30, (312) 742-3918, maggiedaleypark.com Sensory-friendly performance of “The Music Man” More audiences can now experience “The Music Man” as Goodman Theatre offers a sensory-friendly/relaxed performance designed to create a performing arts experiences. The shows are intended for families with members who have autism or other social, cognitive and physical challenges that create sensory sensitivities. Accommodations include dimmed house lights and easy exit, designated quiet area in the lobby, limited crowds and visitors and trained staff for families’ needs. Families should arrive at 1:30 p.m. for a 2 p.m. performance. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, (312).443.3800, GoodmanTheatre.org/MusicMan

Aug. 13

Archaeology From Space: Writing the Past and Future In collaboration with the Adler Planetarium, author Sarah Parcak will present

her book “Archaeology from Space: How the Future Shapes Our Past” at the American Writers Museum at 6:30p.m.

Parcak will be joined by Adler astronomer Lucianne Walkowicz. $12 general admission, members free. 180 N. Michigan Ave, second floor, (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” Screened at Jay Pritzker pavilion in Millennium Park, 6:30 p.m., free

Aug. 14.

Flight of the Bumblebee feat. Grant Park Orchestra The Orchestra will perform Rimsky-Korsakov’s famed “Flight of the Bumblebee” from his opera, “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” followed

by Morton Gould’s “Cowboy Rhapsody.”

The evening begins with Variations on a “Balkan Theme” by Amy Beach at 6:30 p.m.

Grant Park Music Festival, Millennium Park Free on a first come, first serve basis.

Reserved seats available for purchase at grantparkmusicfestival.com

Aug. 15

Jupiter & Owkwess Sponsored by Capital One, the Congo-

Mahler Resurrection Symphony feat. Grant Park Orchestra The last performance of the Grant Park Music Festival’s season will include Mahler’s “Resurrection Symphony” and renowned Chicago favorite vocalists, Amanda Majeski and J’Nai Bridges at 6:30 p.m. in Grant Park. Free on a first come, first serve basis. Reserved seats available for purchase at grantparkmusicfestival.com

Aug. 20

“My Big Fat Greek Wedding” Screened at Jay Pritzker pavilion in Millennium Park, 6:30 p.m., free

Aug. 21

Mid-America Club’s Cocktail Club The public is invited to attend “Cocktail Club,” the Mid-America Club’s monthly, casual networking event from 5-7 p.m.

Enjoy drink specials and a specialty cocktails and mingle with neighbors and make valuable connections.

Reservations are required and space is limited. RSVP to the Membership Department at (312)-861-1100 or email Melissa.czyz@clubcorp.com. Dress is business casual. The club is located on the 80th Floor of the Aon Center, 200 E. Randolph St.

Aug. 22

Beer Flight School with “A Girl Rates Beer” Chicago-based beer blogger, “A Girl Rates Beer,” walks guest through a beer flight at Fairmont’s Columbus Tap from

6:30-7:30 p.m. Ticket price includes beer for those over 21. Tickets $16. 200 N. Columbus Drive, (312) 565-8000, Eventbrite.com

Aug. 24

2019 SummerDance Celebration The final celebration of SummerDance is an all-day event, 1 to 8 p.m. Featuring participatory line dancing, latin dancing, afro fusion and Bollywood. Professional performances will also be presented. All ages welcome. Free. Millennium Park

Aug. 29-Sept. 1

41st Annual Chicago Jazz Festival The Jazz Festival features the best jazz performers from around the world in a series of events and concerts over the weekend starting at 10 a.m. Mainly located at Millennium Park, free, for more information visit jazzinchicago. org/jazzfest.

Through Sept. 8

Manet And Modern Beauty at the Art Institute This exhibition is the first to focus on this period in Edouard Manet’s career, bringing together an array of portraits of fashionable women—favorite actresses and models, bourgeois women of his acquaintance, and his wife—as well as intimate male friends. Among these are two striking paintings, one of the young model-actress Jeanne Demarsy and the other of his friend Méry Laurent. Art Institute Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave. Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., artic.edu

Sept. 12-15

Joffrey Ballet Open Auditions for Young Performers for The Nutcracker All students in the Chicagoland with dance experience that meet the criteria are welcome to audition. All dancers must bring an audition form, 4 x 6 headshot (ladies with hair in a bun), and proof of age (ID, passport or copy of birth certificate etc.). The audition form and RSVP links are available online at Joffrey.org/nutauditions. Joffrey Tower, 10 E. Randolph St., (312) 386-8905

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| NEWS BREAK |

Some friendly (and not so friendly) reminders for watching the Chicago Air and Water Show

O

ne of the Midwest’s great summer events descends upon the city as the Chicago Air and Water Show rears it’s noisy, but exciting, head on Aug. 17 and 18.

Huge crowds are expected and the beachfront will be packed, Jon Cohn which could present some interestCOMMUNITY ing challenges. So, as a long-time CONTRIBUTOR veteran of the spectator wars at the Air and Water Show, we present some crucial “don’t forgets.”

Don’t forget to get there early. Nearly a million people attended last year, so there will be battles for prime viewing

Jumble

UDENDS GIRLA

locations. For an up-close and personal experience, North Avenue Beach is perfect, but prepare to be squished in among a throng of viewers. Great viewing locations exist along Oak Street, Ohio Street and Fullerton Avenue beaches. My secret spot is the long line of elevated steps between Ohio and Oak streets, offering a great, less crowded view.

Don’t forget sunscreen. If it’s a hot day and you forgot your SPF 30, you will cook like a Fourth of July hot dog on a grill. A hat with a flap is also recommended.

Don’t forget to bring fluids (preferably water). Bring snacks, too, if you don’t want to wait in long lines for food.

Speaking of long lines, don’t forget to go to the bathroom before you head out. Washrooms are available along the route, but you might as well bring a book as the wait

can be excruciating.

Don’t forget to bring a camera and binoculars. The up-close looks can be spectacular.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on your dog. The loud noises can freak out even the calmest of pets.

Don’t forget Friday is practice day. Many a downtowner has panicked thinking air raids or worse when the planes do their runs.

Don’t forget to duck when the Blue Angels or The Thunderbirds head your way in a screeching, loud, downward spiral. It’s a natural reaction, we all do it.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the show.

Jon Cohn is a New Eastside Resident.

Out and About in July

Send photos and captions to info@neweastsidecommunity.com for a chance for your photo to be featured.

BASNAIT ESSUCSC

What does the sun drink out of?

July answer: Why are there no knock knock jokes about America? Because freedom rings.

An August riddle: What’s the best day to go to the beach?

A: SUNDAY

Got a great joke or riddle? Send it in and make us laugh at info@neweastsidecommunity.com.

Where am I?

This month features a distinctive facade on a major street in Streeterville. Do you know what building this is?

If you think you know, email us at info@neweastsidecommunity.com.

Answer to July Where am I? Congratulations to Michael Basil and Georgia Blumenberg, two sharp-eyed readers who noted the colorful exterior wall of GEMS Academy in 350 East South Water St. in the New Eastside.

Catherine Phaneuf (from left), Arielle Parker and Megan Mullin enjoy a movie in Millennium Park. Photo by Stephanie Racine

Valerie Maloney (left) and her daughter Maya attend the opening celebration of the Purple Pig in June. Photo by Jesse Wright

DJ Smith enjoys a taste of something at Taste of Chicago in July. Photo by Jesse Wright

Gail Spreen and Todd Miles celebrated the anniversary of the day Cap Streeter’s boat ran aground.

Photo by Jesse Wright

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340 On The Park Elegance 340 E Randolph Unit 3505

1 Beds 1.1 Baths - 1,322 Sq. Ft

$1,224,000 340 On The Park is the first residential tower in the Midwestern United States to achieve Silver LEED certification for its green design. This spectacular 1224 sq ft south-facing 1 bedroom/1.1 bathroom has GE monogram appliances, gas cooktop, Snaidero cabinets in the kitchen and baths, Toto, Dornbracht, and Duravit fixtures. Lutron designers shades in all rooms. Floor-to-ceiling w/bamboo floor in Living, Dining and Kitchen. Views of the Lake and City for miles. Schedule your private showing, today!

Your Neighborhood’s Number One Brokerage*

$995,000

$570,000

155 N Harbor Unit 5203-04 3 Bd 3 Ba - 2,450 Sq. Ft

155 N Harbor Unit 2310

$869,500

$379,000

225 N Columbus Unit 7903

420 E Waterside Unit 2602

$410,000

$399,000

$428,000

$244,900

$405,000

201 N Westshore Unit 2203

155 N Harbor Unit 5307

400 E Randolph Unit 3329

400 E Randolph Unit 1822

222 N Columbus Unit 3102

1 Bd 2 Ba - 1,176 Sq. Ft

1 Bd 1 Ba - 833 Sq. Ft

2 Bd 2 Ba - 1,350 Sq. Ft

1 Bd 1Ba - 826 Sq. Ft

2 Bd 1.1 Ba - 990 Sq. Ft

400 E Randolph Suite 500

2 Bd 2 Ba - 1,250 Sq. Ft

|

312.528.9200

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0 Bd 1 Ba - 525 Sq. Ft

www.UrbanRealEstate.com

2 Bd 2 Ba - 1,200 Sq. Ft

*Based on 2017 verified closed sales data from MRED.