Chicago Star November 2022

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Streeterville NEWS

Candace Jordan candidcandace@chicagostarmedia.com

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Vivien Lee

Bob Oswald

Bob Oswald

Jon Cohn

Gagnon

Bridget McGuire

Bonnie Krueger-Spurlock

Howard Tullman

Nena Ivon

Frye

Catie Keogh

Michael Kutza

Serving the community

Chicago has long been called the “City of Big Shoulders,” but we also know it as a city with a BIG Heart. In our annual non-profit issue we are proud to showcase a few of our favorites. The Chicago Lighthouse has been providing programs and services for the blind and visually impaired for over 100 years. The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation, a relatively new nonprofit, is funding out-of-the-box research to find a cure for cancer. Navy Pier, a nonprofit known as the “People’s Pier,” brings the city together for its free public programs and inclusive activities and the Chicago Public Library Foundation ensures that all kids have access to literary resources. We are forever grateful for all these organizations, and so many others, which have contributed to the health and well-being of our city.

Chicago Star to focus on digital in 2023, wind down print

The scope and reach of the Chicago Star brand continues to grow beyond all expectations. Instantly recognizable, our brand builds community and connects our audiences with the best the city has to offer.

While we distribute our print products in close to 400 locations, our digital audience far surpasses that of our print. Because of this, in 2023 we are excited to announce that Chicago Star will transition to primarily a digital format.

We will no longer be offering the print product for free. Print papers will still be available to paying subscribers at chicagostarmedia.com.

With our new emphasis on online publishing, you can expect new contributors, fresh original content and expanded email products that deliver “news you can use ” Sign up on our website for our free City Buzz weekly e-newsletter to get all the top news delivered to your inbox.

Look for the “new” digital Chicago Star to roll out in January of 2023. In the meantime, please accept warm holiday wishes from all of us. Check inside for family-friendly holiday events, lessons in gratitude and our guide to holiday gifts that give back and much more. Enjoy!

-The team at Chicago Star Media

info@chicagostarmedia.com

info@chicagostarmedia.com

Chicago Star is a monthly paper that uses community writers and contributors. The views expressed by community contributors are their own. Chicago Star Media does not take responsibility for third-party announcements or events. Chicago Star Media is independently owned and operated.

Published Nov. 1, 2022

Copyright ©2022. All rights reserved, Chicago Star

Candid Candace

CITY SEEN

The Cause: The Chicago Lighthouse hosted its 9th annual signature fund raiser, FLAIR (“Eye on Style”), at the Langham Chicago. The sold-out event, the organization’s biggest to date, honored Sherry Lea Holson as its Hood/ Swift Woman with Flair in front of 225 fashion-loving, philanthropic sup porters. Established in 1922, this nonprofit has provided assistance, services and programming to the blind, visually impaired, disabled and veterans.

The Setting: The afternoon of “Fun. Fashion. Philanthropy.” featured a run way fashion show with looks from 10 partner stores and designers. Stores included Frances Heffernan, Anne Fontaine, Max Mara at Bloomingdale’s, Contessa Bottega, St. John, redE and Macy’s (My Personal Stylist at Macy’s State St.). Featured designers were Mira Couture, Al Menotti Couture and Lauren Lein. Chicago Lighthouse alum Michael Hansen sang “Unforgetta ble” in a moving tribute to the organization’s first honoree, the late Vonita Reescer. A video showcasing the great work of the Chicago Lighthouse on behalf of children with disabilities was presented by its executive director, Dr. Janet Szlyk. Jewelry designer Clara Williams (Clara K Jewelry) donated a pair of earrings for the raffle, which was won by Kathy Piccone.

The Scene: Co-chairs Sheree Schimmer and Sherrill Bodine presented Sherry Lea Holson with her award. In her acceptance speech, Holson shared her own experience with an eye condition that temporarily impaired her vision. The event raised $150,000 for the organization’s children’s and youth programs.

GET COOKIN’ WITH... Chef Bill Kim

To say beloved Chef Bill Kim is peripa tetic is an under statement. He’s a chef on the move, always learning, growing and expanding his unique brand. Born in Seoul, Korea and raised in Chicago, Chef Kim takes a boldly flavored, borderless approach to every bowl of noodles and plate of dumplings he makes.

A graduate of Kendall College, Kim immersed himself early in his career in classical French cuisine, working alongside such world-renowned chefs as Pierre Pollin, Jean Banchet and Charlie Trotter. In the 1990s, he honed his skills and developed his distinct style at other acclaimed restaurants, among them Susanna Foo in Philadel phia and New York City’s Bouley Bakery.

Kim’s BYOB noodle and dumpling joint, Urbanbelly, opened in 2008 in an un assuming strip mall in the Chicago Avondale neigh borhood. The following year, he opened Belly Shack in Logan Square, a mashup of Korean and Puerto Rican food inspired by his wife Yvonne Cadiz-Kim’s Puerto Rican heritage. In 2012, Kim brought his take on Korean barbecue, bellyQ, to the bustling Randolph Street corridor and, in 2016, he opened a second Urbanbelly in Wicker Park.

Kim is always moving forward while always giving back. Very devoted to the nonprofit community, he

supports Inspiration Kitch ens (training Chicagoans experiencing homelessness for careers in the food service industry); Chicago Food Depository (a hub for a network of more than 700 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other programs); Common Threads (providing chil dren and families cooking and nutrition education programming) and I Am A Gentleman Inc. (empower ing young men for success ful careers and providing them emotional, physical and spiritual support).

Kim’s first cookbook, “Korean BBQ: Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces,” was released in April 2018. This same year, he and the Cor nerstone Restaurant Group (of which Kim is a partner and culinary director) announced plans to open

a full-service restaurant at Oakbrook Center in partnership with Crate and Barrel. The Table at Crate officially opened in July 2019 which was followed by a kiosk inside the largest Timeout Market in North America. This November, Chef Kim and Cornerstone Restaurant Group will open a kiosk inside the Williams burg Market in Brooklyn, New York.

In his rare spare time, Kim likes to spend time with his wife Yvonne and family and, if he weren’t a chef, would like to be a professional bass fisher man. For Chef Bill Kim, moving forward and giving back is a great way to live a purposeful life. (Check out his delicious recipe for the perfect lemongrass chicken bowl at chicago starmedia.com.)

A Season to Give Grand Kids Foundation celebrates a decade of Grand Giving

November is an exciting month! Not only is it time to plan a Thanksgiving menu and make holiday shopping lists, but it’s also time for Grand Giving — an incredible initiative at Mariano’s.

For this annual fundraiser, which celebrates 10 years this month, we team up with MLB All-Star and Chicago native Curtis Granderson and his Grand Kids Foundation to help feed food insecure children and families around the Chicago area.

Curtis’s started the Grand Kids Foundation in 2007 with the goal to help young Chicagoans through education, physical fitness and nutrition. Since then, the Grand Kids Foundation has supplied over 35 million meals to families in need; reached thousands of kids through sports camps and equipment distribution; funded the Curtis Granderson Stadium at his alma mater UIC; and provided educational scholarships and grants for underserved youth.

Grand Kids programs are fueled by brand partnerships (like with Mariano’s!) and individual donations from across the globe, and because there are zero operating costs, every dollar goes back into the community.

Curtis is also extremely passionate and hands-on about his organization. In fact, during November, you can often spot him at a local Mariano’s store, shopping for es sential food and other items to donate to local food banks or donating at the register.

Mariano’s shoppers can help throughout the month of November by donating $1, $5 or $10 at the register, which will help fund critical food and supplies for the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the Northern Illinois Food Bank.

Thanks to people like Curtis and organizations like Grand Kids Foundation, it’s so easy to help ensure our food insecure neighbors have what they need this holiday season.

We’re grateful to and inspired by Curtis — and all those people who work tirelessly to make Chicago a better place for everyone. This year, it feels more important than ever.

For more information on the Grand Kids Foundation, visit GrandKids.org or follow Curtis at @CGrand on Instagram or @cgrand3 on Twitter.

Dad feels daughter is growing up too fast

Dear Candid Candace: I knew it was coming sooner or later, but apparently “sooner” won out. My 12-year-old daughter is now starting to wear makeup, wear short er dresses, and is getting texts from names not normally in her previous friend group (translation: boys). My wife and I discussed it and know we have a long road ahead of us but also understand that if girls start too soon, it can lead to problems later on. Any thoughts on “slowing down the process?”

— Overly-protective dad

Dear Overly-protective dad: No parent wants to see their kids grow up too soon. The bigger question is why does she want to? If it isn’t a crutch for her self-esteem, I think it’s harmless fun. If it’s to look older to date beyond her years, it needs to be addressed. According to verywellfamily.com, some kids start expressing interest in having a boyfriend or girlfriend as early as 10. (Which I think is too young.) At ages 12/13 though, kids are maturing physically, emotionally and socially. I think it’s only natural for an interest in dat ing to start to emerge as well. Your daughter is still young, though, so I would remain vigilant without being “overly protective.”

Dear Candid Candace: Our son is a junior in high school and discussions of college have begun. My husband is starting to put some pressure on him to get into a “good college,” i.e. Ivy League schools, Big Ten schools or other presti gious universities. I, on the other hand, feel it is important for him to pick one he is comfortable with, even a small school or a community college for the first two years. Your thoughts here?

— Mom of a Pressured Prepster

Dear Mom of a Pressured Prepster: The country’s eight Ivy League schools are some of the most competitive universities in the country. However, there are several univer sities (public and private) that are just as selective. Attending more prestigious schools is highly regarded by some employers but it takes a certain type of student to thrive at these more competitive levels. Another fly in the ointment is whether to attend college at all. Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Michael Dell and MGM co-founder, Marcus Lowe, had little or no college education and it didn’t seem to hurt their careers. I think this is a very personal choice and shouldn’t be influenced by parents. CollegeVine.com has some interesting discussions on this topic, both pro and con. Good luck to your son, I hope whatever path he chooses, it will make him happy and successful.

Send questions to: CandidCandace@ ChicagoStarMedia.com. Follow Candid Candace (Candace Jordan) on Facebook, Insta, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Let’s go to the Broadmoor this Thanksgiving

It’s my favorite time of year. The leaves have changed, pump kin lattes are back and winter is right around the corner.

If you’re looking to get away this season and want a magical holi day filled with a little white snow, twinkling lights and beautiful mountains, I have the perfect spot for you.

Nothing says the holidays more than The Broadmoor (broadmoor.com), a five-star re sort in Colorado Springs, CO. The resort has endless amenities and adventure to take ad vantage of. With a truly classic atmosphere, full of nostalgia and tradition, there is no better place to kick-off your holiday season.

Southwest Airlines out of Midway and United Airlines out of O’Hare have nonstop flights to Colorado Springs. Flying non-stop gets you there in under 3 hours. Did I mention Colorado Springs has 300 days of sunshine? It’s always a good day to fly to Colorado Springs!

The Broadmoor Thanksgiving Celebration lasts from Wednesday to Sunday the week of Thanksgiving. It is a jam-packed schedule of events and activities, capped off with the White Lights Ceremony (broadmoor.com/ holidays). Watch Santa and Mrs. Claus flip the switch on the resort’s annual display of millions of twinkling holiday lights.

If you want a true Colorado Thanksgiv ing experience, there are plenty of outdoor options like hiking and scavenger hunts. You can also find fly fishing in the area, and even book a lesson in the ancient art of falconry at the academy on the resort.

Make sure to check out the new and improved Cog Railway experience (cograilway.com) that takes you to the top of Pikes Peak. The three hour round-trip is not only smooth, but gives you some of the most gorgeous views of Colorado at the top. On a clear day, you can take in views of five different states!

Yoga classes at the Broadmoor are a

great way to center yourself this holiday season and dance lessons are available throughout the week, if you want to dance off those holiday calories. With movie nights, wine tastings, art and history tours and even holiday themed bingo, there is something everyone can enjoy.

In addition to the White Lights Ceremo ny, the holiday touches around the resort are endless. Enjoy a massive gingerbread display, breakfast with Santa and live shows to put you in the holiday spirit.

And don’t forget to check out the Holiday Carnival while sipping hot chocolate and taste-testing a few holiday cookies.

For more information, be sure to visit broadmoor.com and follow me at Let’s Go with Catie Keogh. Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Travels!

How unwanted household items can change lives

You’ve just finished cleaning out the basement. An old couch, some kitchen chairs, miscellaneous camping gear, a mattress and a half dozen boxes of odds and ends—it’s all in the driveway.

Now what?

You could put it at the curb or pay for a dumpster or have the city haul it away to a landfill. Or, with a quick call, you could arrange to have your unwanted items do nated to one of many Chicago organizations where they can make a difference to someone in need.

Whether the goal is to donate, refurbish, repurpose or dispose in an eco-friendly manner, when you work with one of the following service groups, you can rest assured your unwanted household items will be put to good use. And by diverting useful goods from a landfill, in many cases, you can help build stronger neighborhoods and bring safe, affordable housing to Chicagoans.

Chicago Furniture Bank

The Chicago Furniture Bank (CFB) is a nonprofit that bills itself as an intermediary between Chicagoans who have extra furniture and those who need it. The group will pick up your high quality and essential furniture pieces and use them to help others turn an empty house into a home. You can schedule a pickup or drop off items during business hours. The CFB has furnished 8,309 homes for more than 18,906 people and given away over 5,000 tons of furniture as of April 2022. In coordination with their sister nonprofit, below, they work to ensure donations go to recipients for free, with the help of over 400 nonprof it partners.

Honest Junk Company

Sometimes after a home remodel or clean-up, you have a bunch of lightly used items, otherwise in decent shape, to dispose of. And sometimes, you have, well, just a bunch of junk. The Honest Junk Company is the Chicago sister nonprofit of the Chicago Furniture Bank above and the only 501(c)(3) junk removal company in Chicagoland. Usable items removed by Honest Junk are donated to its charity partners. The group also provides “residential cleanouts” and corporate liquidations. In other words, they will remove almost anything from residential and corporate projects and distribute all usable items to various charity partners.

Habitat for Humanity Chicago

The well-known service group, Habitat for Humanity, runs a “Restore” program in Chicago through which they accept “gently-used furniture, appliances and building materials.” The group is focused on bringing people

together in the interest of healthy neighborhoods. They work across Chicago’s diverse communities to bring “strength, stability and self-reliance to entire areas of the city.” They accept both drop-offs and pick-ups. Ask about business donations.

Cradles to Crayons

While some groups concentrate their efforts on com munity level and socioeconomic change, Cradles to Cray ons is laser focused on helping children living in poverty. They are always on the lookout for high-quality new and like-new items for children newborn to age 12. They even provide resources to help you set up a collection drive at your home, school or workplace. New and nearly new children’s items are collected through grassroots com munity drives and corporate donations. Donations are processed by volunteers and distributed to local disadvan taged children through a network of service partners.

Sharing Connections

Sharing Connections (SC) is another nonprofit that works to serve economically disadvantaged groups in

Chicago, including those who have been previously homeless, the unemployed and working poor, veterans, victims of domestic violence, immigrants, individuals with mental or physical disabilities, victims of fire, flood and natural disasters. SC staff work with refer ring partner organizations such as domestic violence shelters, housing organizations, food pantries, schools, veteran, and teen parent groups. They accept drop-offs or pick-ups and will work with you to set up a one-time or recurring donation. They’ll even help you donate your old car.

GreatNonprofits

If you want to ensure your donation goes to a particular charitable organization, and aren’t specifically looking for a home pick-up, GreatNonprofits of Chicago hosts a comprehensive index of Chicago area nonprofits search able by rating, cause, distance to your home or busi ness and more.

All the organizations and services featured have certain restrictions on which items they will accept. Be sure to check their websites before donating.

Holiday hair trends

Chicago’s celebrity hair designer Anthony Cristiano shares fab tips for the party season

COMMUNITY

CONTRIBUTOR

When you walk into Anthony Cristiano’s name sake salon in the heart of Chicago overlooking the beautiful Chicago River, you know you’re in for a spe cial treat. “I devote much thought to everything I do. I am especially mindful of the client’s needs,” Cristiano shared. Our interview with Cris tiano is the read you need to help you be a style standout this holiday season and a fab Chicago Star like we know you are. The holiday gala season is upon us—what hairstyles do you feel will be popular?

For long hair: A voluminous blowout with loose curls is always chic. Adding a Jennifer Behr Swarovski-encrusted head band (or other) is the perfect way to make it festive for the holiday season.

For medium hair: A half-up, half down style—secured with an embellished bow barrette is a beautiful way to elevate your style.

For short hair: I love a short haircut that is clean and precise—it will always be a great look, but especially when paired with a softer dress or hair accessory like crystal pins.

For textured hair: There is nothing like natural texture. Whether you prefer to wear your curls up, or let them fall around your shoulders, there is an authentic elegance and confidence to wearing your hair naturally—especially for an event.

afraid to stick with those even for a holiday party or event.

As far as hair color trends, what tones are you seeing this season?

During the winter months, you can’t go wrong with rich, warm tones—whether that’s a deep auburn, brunette or golden brown. Will upsweeps be important?

A sleek bun is an elevated, but still a timeless look and is especially on-trend this season. We love the beautiful head bands at your salon; are they on-trend for the holidays?

Partial upsweeps anchored with a rich, black velvet accessory creates Chicago Star specialness. Hair model, Cassandra Blower. Photos @Socially.Beautiful; www. anthonycristiano.com @anthonycristianosalon

Will curly or straight-hair be big?

Embracing your natural texture is al ways in style. If you feel most yourself and confident with your natural curls, don’t be

We’re excited we have been able to curate a specific selection of Jennifer Behr’s headbands and hair accessories catered specifically to our salon and clients. There is nothing like a rich, luxe velvet headband or bow to elevate a simple blowout or curls. The classic femininity of a bow in an updo will never go out of style.

Anthony Cristiano is an accomplished hair artist with over 30 years of experience in the fashion and beauty world. He’s worked on numerous fashion editorials, advertising campaigns and with leading national brands.

Doorperson of the Month

Irene Pettus

The Shoreham, 400 E. South Water St.

Irene Pettus is constant ly smiling. It’s enviable, as is her frequent laughter. What a terrific attitude she has toward her job and life in general.

Irene is a popular door person at The Shoreham. Going on four years as part of the team, she said her personality “fits the job.” With pride she says that one of the secrets to success in her position at The Shore ham, and in life, is striving to “give more than I take, as life is all about heart.”

The Shoreham is part of the Lakeshore East commu nity. In the neighborhood replete with a wide variety of businesses, the build ing’s lobby door leads you right to the Drunken Bean coffee shop. Irene’s personal favorite, located just across from her workstation, is the breakfast burrito.

Irene goes above and beyond her myriad of responsibilities as door person, even mopping the floors because she wants things to be perfect for the residents. Her background in the cleaning industry comes in handy.

As she works predom inantly overnight and swing shifts, she laughs while remarking “the building seems to have more dogs than kids.” In fact, a “doggie food truck” stops in front of their building on Saturdays. But

there must be quite a few children, too, because par ents set up bounce houses in the Lakeshore East Park for kids’ birthday parties.

The time period from 3 to 7 p.m. is when Irene is at her busiest. “It’s constant with people arriving home from work, contractors wrapping up their business with the building, and folks ordering food delivery.”

Speaking of contractors, if anything in the building needs repair, Irene main tains her obvious cool and knows who to call.

The Shoreham is a relatively new 17-year-old building. Although the pandemic was a challenging time, she said, “residents were troopers, and we all took care of one another.”

In spite of power failures, elevator and air condition ing failures, she said the tenants are resilient.

Irene has two “awesome

The Shoreham, 400 E. South Water St.

and amazing” children. She hails from Chicago, but currently lives in Merrill ville, Indiana. To relax, she hangs out with her chil dren, works out and enjoys bowling. She moved her hair dryer onto her balcony amongst her plants and calls it her “zen zone.”

To nominate your favor ite doorperson, email info@ chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be the doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.

Gail Spreen & Dennis Downes had tremendous turn-outs at both The University Club of Chicago and the Cliff Dwellers Club with two special screenings of their Documentary The History Of South Streeterville!

Thanks for the amazing turn out! We had record attendance at the University Club for our film. We could not have been made to be more welcome at Cliff Dwellers & both events ended with rousing discussions!

Gail@StreetervilleProperties.com

Ronald McDonald House Charities celebrates milestone year of helping families

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RM HC-CNI) is celebrating its 45th year of helping families get better together. What started as a vision of co-founder Charlie Marino and his wife to help families after a personal experience with a sick child has gone on to serve over 130,000 families who needed a home away from home to stay near their hospitalized child.

Lara and Rob Kozak intimately under stand the impact that Ronald McDonald House has on families. When their daugh ter was born and unexpectedly admitted to the PCICU (pediatric cardiac intensive care unit), they experienced first-hand how hard it was to leave their daugh ter’s side.

“I did not see her. I didn’t get to hold her. I didn’t get to kiss her,” said Lara. “I was try ing to recover from my C-section and final ly saw her hours later in the PCICU. It was hard seeing my first daughter intubated.”

Adeline Kozak was diagnosed with hy poplastic left heart syndrome and needed an open-heart procedure. While the sur gery is standard for babies born with this condition, Adeline was unable to undergo the procedure at first due to complications. The surgeons decided it was best for Ade line to stay in the hospital until she was strong enough to undergo the surgery.

During Adeline’s stay, her parents wished to be as close as possible to their daughter. So they turned to the Ronald McDonald House near Advocate Chil dren’s Hospital for help.

“My husband had to go back to work. I was on FMLA, and so I was here alone,” said Lara. “Thank God for Ronald Mc Donald House because I met a lot of heart families and a lot of heart moms. Ronald McDonald House saved my sanity.”

“I would go to the Ronald McDonald House at night because some days I slept in a chair at the hospital, and it was hard with my C-section recovery. Some days

I stayed at the House. I knew Adeline needed me and Ronald McDonald House gave me a breather so I could regroup and be strong for her at the hospital,” con tinued Lara.

The Kozak family credits the Ronald McDonald House for giving them a home away from the hospital to relax or simply grab a snack. The other families, volun teers and staff served as a community to the Kozaks, supporting them and caring for their child through the tough time.

“It takes a huge burden off your shoul ders. You don’t have to think about food or any supplies, and you can focus 100% on your child,” said Rob.

Adeline was finally able to receive the procedure and the family returned home

for the first time since she was born. But, Adeline’s heart syndrome persisted. Addi tional procedures resulted in three hospi tal stays—a total of 51 nights. While each visit presented new challenges, Ronald McDonald House remained constant. Lara and Rob were welcomed back into their favorite room, this time with Adeline’s new sister.

“It was hard to juggle. My husband and I would take turns going back and forth to the hospital and the House. We would switch off. Either of us was with Adeline or with Alyssa,” said Lara.

Throughout it all, the Kozaks’ resilience was backed by the comfort the Ronald McDonald House provided. “It was really hard. But I loved being here,” said Lara.

With the addition of 10 new guest rooms at the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s Hospital (bringing the Chapter’s largest House to a total of 80 bedrooms) and the opening of the new Ronald McDonald House inside Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit this year, RMHC-CNI now offers families 172 rooms at nine Ronald McDonald Houses and Family Rooms throughout the region. Each year, RMHC-CNI provides hospital ity and services to families that saves them over $9 million in hotel and food costs. The organization relies on passionate volunteers and donors to support families. You can learn more and get involved by visiting ronaldhousechicago.org.

A round up of Chicago's top stories

Two direct flights from Chicago to Europe added

Spending summer in Europe just got easier with two new direct flights to Europe from United. Beginning May 25, 2023, daily flights will carry passengers from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport to Shannon, Ireland, and Barcelona, Spain. The additions are a response to a spike in demand last summer, according to the Chicago-based airline. (united.com)

Harry Potter: Magic at Play worldwide debut in Chicago

Chicagoans will be among the first to experience the hands-on wizarding world of Harry Potter when the “Magic at Play” interactive experience makes its world wide debut Nov. 11 at Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue. Visitors can explore, climb and play their way through three levels of fun inspired by Harry’s own ad ventures. (harrypottermagicatplay.com)

Christkindlmarket opens

Chicago’s German Christmas market opens for the holiday season Nov. 18. The outdoor market is inspired by the 16th century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germa ny, one of the first outdoor markets of its kind. Visit its Daley Plaza or Wrigleyville locations for delicious treats, music and vendors selling products from around the world. (christkindlmarket.com)

National Public Housing Museum breaks ground in Chicago

The National Public Housing Museum held a groundbreaking ceremony at the last remaining building of the historic

Grateful hearts will gather at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24, on State Street. This year’s parade will be co-hosted by actors Jen Lilley and Jesse Hutch and will feature marching bands, live performances, festive floats, equestrians and more. (chicagothanksgivingparade.com)

Jane Addams Homes at 1322-24 W. Taylor

St. The museum will be a place for social reflection, dialogue and education around public housing in the U.S. The build ing was home to hundreds of residents between opening in 1938 and closing in 2002. (nphm.org)

Mag Mile Banana Republic closing

Banana Republic is the latest retailer to an nounce the closing of its Magnificent Mile store. The announcement adds to a growing

list of vacancies following the closure of the Gap and Macy’s on Michigan Avenue.

Omicron-specific vaccine open to children

The Centers for Disease Control expanded the use of updated vaccines to children last month. The updated vaccines protect against Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants. Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine is recommend ed for children ages 5 through 11 years while Moderna’s is for children and ado lescents ages 6 through 17. (cdc.gov)

Ice Skate at Millennium and Maggie Daley Parks

Dropping temperatures mean it’s time to hit the ice. Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opens Nov. 19, and the Maggie Daley Park ice skating ribbon opens Nov. 18, weather permitting. Ad mission is free, but online reservations are required. Skate rental is available.

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along begins

Join choruses and singers from across the city on Fridays from Nov. 25 to Dec. 16 for the annual Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along. The sing along goes from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”). Admission is free.

Holiday Gifts that Give Back

AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS

Support the artistic talents of Chicago’s teens by doing your holiday gift shopping at the After School Matters Gift Shop, 66 E. Randolph St. Winter Wonderland cards featured, 10 for $20. (afterschool matters.org)

MISERICORDIA HEARTS & FLOUR BAKERY AND CAFÉ

Order holiday bakery goods and gift boxes, available with shipping, from the newly opened bakery at 6130 N. Ravenswood Ave. in Rogers Park. The bakery pro vides jobs to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Misericordia also offers an on-site location in Chicago at 6300 N. Ridge Ave. (misericordia.com)

“THE NUTCRACKER”

BY JOFFREY BALLET

What better way to spend the holidays than at a Joffrey Ballet perfor mance of “The Nutcracker?”

At the Lyric Opera House Dec. 3 through Dec. 27. (Joffrey.org)

WINGS

When you purchase a do-it-yourself Sweet Home Chi cago Gingerbread house kit from WINGS, you are rais ing money for families touched by domestic violence. $135, order by Nov. 30 for delivery no later than Dec. 9. (wingsprogram.com)

CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE CLOCK

Every Chicago Light house Clock is made by individuals who are blind or visually impaired. (Shown, $59, chicagoli ghthouse.org)

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

“Mouse’s Christmas Gift” book by Mindy Baker. One tiny church mouse must find a way to bring Christmas spirit to his little town. For children ages 4-8. Proceeds benefit the MCA. $17.99 (mcachicago.org)

SHEDD AQUARIUM

“Edward and An nie” children’s book beautifully captures the adventures of penguins Edward and Annie, who soared to superstar status during the pandemic when their field trips around the closed museum went viral. A portion of book proceeds will support penguin con servation in the wild and ongoing penguin care at the Shedd. $17.99 (sheddaquarium.org)

“Edward and Annie,“ a children’s book to benefit the Shedd Aquarium and support penguin conservation in the wild.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO

Carved wooden Lion Ornaments were created in honor of the Pep per Family Wildlife Center Lion House’s reopening. $13 (lpzoo.org)

ONE TAIL AT A TIME

“I Love You” and “Saturday Night with my Dog” candles benefit the animal rescue One Tail at a Time. They are available at Tortie & Co., 1468 N. Ashland Ave., for $18. (on etailatatime.square.site)

FUMÉE CLAIRE

A portion of the proceeds from every Fumée Claire product purchased will support a yearly philan thropy fund awarded to a variety of charities that make a difference to those in need. Holiday Aspen Christmas candles come in 10.5 ounces for $35 and 26.5 ounces for $57. Reed diffusers are $38. (fume eclaire.com)

We shouldn’t be applauded for having good luck

Whydo we cheer for raffle prize winners? They didn’t do anything to win—it’s luck.

I was at an event recently that had raffle prizes.

You would’ve thought we were at Oprah’s “Favorite Things” show the way people were losing their minds.

“Up next, the winner of this five dollar Subway gift card is…Bridget McGuire!”

The crowd went wild, except for me.

I didn’t deserve the applause, I didn’t do anything. Not to mention, five dollars to Subway is the worst raffle prize I’ve ever heard of. You’re paying tax on your footlong and there’s no chance you’re making it a meal.

I think we should applaud people when they put effort into work, like running a marathon or pass ing a test.

For example, when I was in 7th grade I got called to the office and was told that the Chicago Bulls were on the phone. The Bulls were calling to congratulate me: the

poem I wrote had won the contest! I’d be going to a Bulls game to meet the players and I could bring a parent. I was ecstatic! This was the mid-90s, the Bulls were on fire; however, I had no memory of writing a poem about The

Chicago Bulls. It made no sense.

After school I immediately called my dad and asked him to be the parent that takes me to the game.

“Oh my God, my poem won!” he screamed.

Apparently, my dad got wind of a Chicago children’s poetry contest and decided to write a quick sonnet and submit it on my behalf, despite the fact I lived in the sub urbs, not Chicago.

I felt guilty and said we couldn’t go. He disagreed. “Nah, we’re going to this game.” He wanted to meet MJ.

He couldn’t get over it though. He kept saying, “Man, I can’t believe my poem won.”

Yeah, you, the 50-year-old former English teacher, can’t believe you beat out the second graders of Chica go. So, I went to the game with my dad, Robert Frost. I cheered for him though—he put work into that poem. It wasn’t a raffle.

Bridget McGuire is a Chicago-based storyteller, stand-up comedian and is a co-producer of “All That Good Stuff,” a traveling comedy show that started on the South Side of Chicago. Follow her on Instagram at @ bmcguire82.

Lessons in gratitude

Children can be taught to appreciate life’s little things

It can be easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially when the holidays are on the horizon. But it’s important to slow down and acknowl edge what you are grateful for, particular ly when modeling this habit for children.

Here are some ways you can teach grat itude and appreciation to kids of all ages.

Start by showing kids they can be thankful for the little things in life. Maybe it’s their warm coat on a chilly day or the hug they got from a friend to cheer them up. You might say, “It was cold today, but you had your warm and cozy coat when you were outside. You must have been thankful for that!” In addition, remind them to say “thank you” when someone has given them something or done some thing nice for them.

Reframe a disappointing experience to help kids find something positive in it. My third grader recently lost her earring at school. She was sad, but a friend offered her a spare pair of earrings she kept in her lock er in case of accidental loss. This small act of kindness helped my daughter appreciate her friend even more, and she now keeps her own spare pair of earrings at school.

Encourage your child to think about, write down or draw three to five things they are grateful for each day. Practicing mindfulness by intentionally listing these things allows kids to focus on the positive which allows them to feel happiness. You can even create a gratitude wall, poster, jar or tree in your home to display and easily recall all that is good in life.

Helping others is another way to express and acknowledge gratitude. Kids can make cards, write letters or draw pictures that can accompany meals or gift bags going to those in need. Those simple messages of love and connection can brighten someone’s day, and kids will feel a sense of pride knowing they have given back to their community.

Lastly, make it a priority to spend quality time with family and loved ones. Encourage kids to call their grandparents, aunts, uncles or family members regularly or send them a heartfelt letter. They can also bake cookies or make crafts to give them when they visit. Designate time at home to spend with family to promote and practice daily gratitude together.

Like all skills, gratitude is not learned in one lesson, but consistent efforts to help children develop appreciation and thank fulness will help them become happier, healthier adults.

Our Library; our comm

Nov. 3

Taste of Hope at Navy Pier

Featuring a cornucopia of amazing Chicagoland restaurants, Taste of Hope calls on American Cancer Society supporters to celebrate their progress while continuing the fight against one of the world’s most formidable diseases. The annual event brings award-winning chefs and Chicago foodies together.

Nov. 3, tickets start at $175, Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 943-7200, chicagotasteofhope.org

Nov. 5

True Blue event at the Hyatt Regency

The Chicago Police Foundation will host its annual True Blue event at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. The event will raise funds to help improve the city of Chicago’s public safety programs and supplement resources and equipment available to the Chicago Police Depart ment. The evening will include dinner,

dancing and a live auction and guests are encouraged to don True Blue Cock tail Chic attire (navy and silver). Nov. 5, tickets start at $500, Hyatt Regency Chicago 151 E. Wacker Drive, (312) 664-7076, chicagopolicefoundation.org

Nov. 11

PAWS Chicago Fur Ball at the Drake PAWS Chicago will host its 21st annual Chicago Fur Ball to raise funds for its “no kill rescue,” one of the largest in the Midwest. Guests will delight in the silent and live auctions with one-of-a-kind items, raffle, dancing and dinner buffets. Lucky dogs in attendance will be treated to an evening of indulgences—including a divine dinner served in crystal goblets at the special dog buffet, and can enjoy pawdicures, massages, and delightful pet-friendly spritzes in the Dog Spa. Nov. 11, ticket prices vary, Drake Hotel, 140 East Walton Place, (773) 475-3307, pawschicago.org

Chicago Lighthouse 36th annual House & Garden Walk

Tour homes from around the country from virtually anywhere, watch as many times as you want, anytime you want (over the three-day event). The Chicago Lighthouse Associate Board invites you to tour its virtual House and Garden Walk featuring stunning homes across the country while supporting The Chicago Lighthouse serving the blind, visually im paired, disabled, and veteran communi ties. Nov. 11, tickets $75, event is “virtual,” (847) 510-2060, chicagolighthouse.org

Nov. 18

Sparkle Light Festival debut in Rosemont

This holiday season, Rosemont’s Impact Field will shine a little brighter with the debut of its Sparkle Light Festival. Visi tors will enjoy a breathtaking immersive display of millions of holiday lights amongst outdoor holiday activities including train rides, winter tubing and

themed mazes. Experience five illumi nated villages, custom 3D holiday fea tures and an ice tube slide. Group and individual tickets available. Nov. 18-Jan. 1, adults $25, children $20, Impact Field in Rosemont, 9850 Balmoral Ave., (847) 636-5450, sparklerosemont.com

Nov. 12

Wings To Cure Gala at the Hilton

The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation is hosting its annual Wings to Cure Gala at the Hilton Chicago. This year’s “A Hand to Hold ‘’ event will be MC’d by Dina Bair of WGN, Hosea Sanders of ABC and Lou Canel lis of FOX. The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation supports “out of the box” cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. Nov. 12, tickets start at $1,000, Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 503-8306, crfwingstocure.org

PICK EVENTS

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

Chicago Humanities Festival

Social Media Series

This year’s Chicago Humanities Festival theme is “Public,” and is focused on what it means to be part of a broader community of conversation. Among its range of programs, social experiences and performances, the group is hosting a three-part series on social media and its impact on mental health and social discourse. Nov. 12, tickets for gener al public, $20, discounts available for members, students and teachers, Step penwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., (312) 335-1650, chicagohumanities.org

Nov. 17

Illuminate 900 returns to 900 North Michigan Shops

After three years, Illuminate 900, Chi cago’s annual arts-forward tree lighting ceremony, is back. With a 50 foot-tall tree holding center court, guests will revel in seasonal delights. Kids of all ages can take an “Elfie” with “The Real Elf,” and help countdown for Santa to pull the switch to shine the first holiday lights on The Magnificent Mile. Nov. 17, Silver passes (10 and under), free, Gold and Platinum passes, $15 and $20, 900 North Michigan Shops, 900 North Michigan Ave., (312) 915-3916, shop900.com

Nov. 18

Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe. The iconic German-inspired holiday market offers a unique shopping experience, fami ly-friendly events and intercultural ac tivities. Nov. 18-Dec. 24, free admission, Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., (312) 494-2175, christkindlmarket.com

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opening

A rite of passage for children and a cher ished tradition for adults, McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is one of Chicago’s larg est outdoor ice-skating rinks drawing more than 100,000 skaters every year. The rink will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and the welcome center will

be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until the end of performances on event nights. Admission is free but online tickets are required. Nov. 18-March 5, free admis sion, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., (312) 742-1168, chicago.gov

Nov. 20

The Lion King roars back

Winner of six Tony Awards, there is no other theater experience like The Lion King. Making a triumphant return to Chicago, this production brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway including Tony Award-winning director, Julie Taymor, who brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amaz ing backdrop of stunning visuals. Nov. 17-Jan. 14, tickets start at $33, Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com

Nov. 26

A Christmas Carol

A must-see holiday tradition, A Christ mas Carol tells the timeless tale that continues to enchant generations of theater goers. Audience favorite, Larry Yando, returns for his 15th season as the miserly Scrooge, leading an equally talented and colorful cast to transfix audiences with haunting performances and stagecraft. Nov. 19-Dec. 31, tickets start at $35, Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., (312) 443-3800, good mantheatre.org

Dec. 3

The Nutcracker at Joffrey Ballet

Celebrating the magic of the season and Chicago’s rich heritage, Joffrey’s Ballet’s production of the Nutcracker is a magical tradition that leaves audiences aglow and wanting more. At the stroke of midnight on a snowy Christmas Eve, young Marie sets out on an unforgettable journey through Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, a marvel of sights, sounds, and enchant ment. Dec. 3-27, tickets start at $40, Lyric Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive, (312) 386-8905, joffrey.org

WINDEE visits the Adler Planetarium

Where else can you dress up like an astronaut, launch your own space shuttle, drive a moon car and toss around (foam) space rocks? Only at the Adler Planetarium! This museum has been voted one of the best for kids by a variety of publications, and the experience was out of this world. The Adler was America’s first planetarium, and it’s so much more than a museum. It’s a laboratory, a classroom and a place to explore the universe. Kids like us can visit a space station to see how familiar things work differently in space, take a stroll through the unknown in the “Planet Explorers’’ spacewalk experience and search for signs of life on the surface of Planet X. In the “Our Solar System” exhibit, you can explore the different plan ets and see what they look like on a large scale. It’s also located right next to Gal ileo’s Café, which is a good stop before or after your visit. You can write a note to an astronaut and learn how the U.S. put a man on the moon in the “Mission to the Moon ‘’ exhibit and, in the Adler Sky Shows, you will learn about the stars, planets, the moon and more. My personal favorite was the “Sesame Street” show where Elmo and Big Bird go to the moon and back. I even built a spaceship out of Legos in the Community Design Lab. Check Adler’s hours before planning your visit. It is SO WINDEE-approved! (adlerplanetarium.org)

The best of Chicago for our young readers

Illustration by Rosemary Fanti, conceived by Candid Candace Jordan, Associate Publisher

TAKE ME HOME

Sadly, Mikey was abandoned at the Anti-Cruelty Society’s River North adoption center after his owner could no longer care for him. He enjoys seeking out attention from humans and is very cuddly, quiet and calm. This 5-year-old is also known to be friendly with other felines. Mikey is one of the shel ter’s Special Care Adoptions due to having feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which is only transmit table between felines via bites. Cats with FIV can live with other cats, provided their personalities mesh. Mikey has a lot of love to give to his future adopter, and he hopes to get the chance to win YOU over. (510 N. LaSalle Drive, anticruelty.org)

FOR A CURE On Saturday, November 12, at the Hilton Chicago, The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation (HCRF) will get set to host their 7th annual Wings To Cure Gala, “A Hand To Hold”. HCRF has been supporting cutting edge, innovative research at the Robert H Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University The Lurie Cancer Center is a national leader in the development of new treatments for cancer and over the last few years, efforts have paid off leading to the development of new cancer drugs and implementation of life saving clinical trials. It is ranked #6 in the country as one of the top academic comprehensive cancer centers in the country and continues to support exceptional research that plays an important role in its academic excellence. This year, HCRF aims to host over 600 guests for one of the most elevated gatherings to take place in the city of Chicago.

“Without the continuous support of our donors, sponsors, and loving friends to HCRF none of this would be possible. Join us in the fight and take part in a night to celebrate the fight we are winning against cancer.” Eleni Bousis

Link to purchase you tickets or make a donation to The Wings To Cure Gala 2022 https://2022HCRFGALA.givesmart.com https://www.instagram.com/wingstocure/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/wingstocure/ https://hcrfwingstocure.org

call 312 503 8306 or email info@wingstocure.org for any further questions!

Blessings in a Backpack needs help helping kids

As the costs of living rise, families experienc ing food insecurity feel the impacts.

Blessings in a Back pack is a non-profit organization that brings communities, individuals and resources together to provide food for school aged children who might otherwise go hungry on weekends.

During the 2021-2022 school year, Blessings in a Backpack distributed 3.2 million bags of ready-toeat food to children across America. The organiza tion’s Chicago chapter currently feeds 6000 kids each weekend. There are many ways to join Bless ings in a Backpack in their efforts to help end child hood hunger so kids have the necessary nourishment to learn and grow.

Participate in the Chica go chapter’s “Do it Your self” 5K run/walk anytime between Nov 5-13. You can complete the distance at your own time and pace and at a location of your choice. Last year, 45 teams participated and raised over $90,000 enabling the chapter to provide week end food for an additional 600 kids. Register for the event at runsignup.com/ Race/IL/Chicago/DIY5K.

Start a program by becoming a Volunteer Pro gram Coordinator. You can recruit a volunteer team, raise funds and work with a school to support your

program. You can also host or organize a local food drive.

Create “positive note cards” that can be attached to the bags of food so children receive heartfelt words of encouragement over the weekend. This is a great activity for kids to get involved! Just remember to keep it brief, positive and simple. The note cards can be printed on any color paper and sent to: Blessings in a Backpack, Attn: Anita Knazze. 303 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 2030. Chicago, IL 60601.

Start a Facebook Fund raiser. Simply log in to your Facebook account, go to facebook.com/Blessing sinaBackpack and click the “Create Fundraiser” but ton. Set a goal amount and create a title and end date for your fundraiser. Share the reason you chose to support Blessings and in vite your Facebook friends

to contribute. Donors will be provided with a tax re ceipt acknowledging their generosity and support.

Share your birthday with kids and make a difference by asking for hunger-free weekends instead of personal gifts. Friends and family can contribute in your honor.

Get your company involved with a corporate sponsorship and partner with Blessings to contrib ute resources to provide kids with weekend food and meet your own busi ness goals.

Contribute a monetary donation as a one-time gift or set up a monthly dona tion. It only costs $130 to provide weekend nutrition for a child through Bless ings in a Backpack for one school year.

More information about how you can get involved can be found at blessing sinabackpack.org.

Private Offices On Demand

OPEN ON MICHIGAN

A starry night for Giordano Dance Chicago

Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC), hosted its popular 15th annual “Dancing With The Giordano Stars” ballroom dance competition at Park West. The sold-out event raised over $208,000 to benefit GDC and its educational and outreach programs. Patterned after the ABC hit series “Dancing With The Stars,” the fundraiser teamed GDC professional dancers with partners from the who’s who of Chicago’s civic, social

and business communities. This year’s Best Male and Best Female dancers were Shaun Gallagher (paired with GDC dancer Katie Rafferty) and Rachel Kohl (partnered with Ryan Galloway). Beth Ann Papoutsis (with Zachary Heller) gar nered Audience Favorite honors and Sarah Norris was named Top Fundraiser. GDC, celebrating its 60th season this year, has taken its programs and performances around the globe to 27 countries, 47 states and more than 1,300 cities.

Photos by Beth Ann Anderson

CPD invites city residents to put on their thinking ‘CAPS’

A partnership between police and community members is the foundation of Chicago’s approach to community polic ing, dubbed CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) by the CPD.

While community policing has become a popular crime-fighting strategy across the country, CAPS has adapted the model to address the unique needs of Chicago’s neighborhoods and public safety goals while preserving strategies that have been successful in other cities.

CAPS has been recognized as one of

the most ambitious community polic ing initiatives in the U.S. and has been cited as a model by national experts including officials at the U.S. Depart ment of Justice and academic authori ties on community policing, according to the CPD.

CAPS is designed to make residents active partners in preventing crime while enhancing the positive aspects of shared communities across all of Chicago’s neighborhoods. The police/ people partnership depends on the idea that the CPD, residents and other neighborhood stakeholders must work together to address the conditions that

can lead to crime.

Beat community meetings are a key part of the CAPS strategy of partnerships and problem solving, according to the CPD. Meetings, held in all of Chicago’s 279 police beats, provide a regular opportunity for police officers, residents, and other community stakeholders to exchange information, identify and prioritize prob

lems and begin developing solutions. Ready to become a part of the solu tion? To learn more about CAPS activity in your area, sign up for your ward’s e-newsletter or call the city’s “311” information line. Searching the CPD website can be a challenge and you’re likely to run into a few dead links and outdated web pages.

November brings bounty of fabulous theater and music

Take a look at some of the best in what promises to be an outstanding month in Chicago theater and music.

GOODMAN THEATRE: Tony Award-winning direc tor Robert Falls and Pulitzer Prize-nom inated playwright Rebecca Gilman team up for “Swing State,” set in Wisconsin with four working-class characters. Gilman has a wonderful ear for everyday life in the Midwest and her plays so often deliver a marvelous experience. Now through Nov. 13 at The Goodman, 170 N. Dearborn St., (312) 4433800. (goodman.org)

CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER: “Measure for Measure,” the bard’s remarkably up-to-date examination of corruption and hypocrisy, returns in director Henry Godinez’s 90-minute production. Set in a sultry Havana nightclub in the 1950s, before Castro, the show is com plete with pre-show mambo, bolero, and Afro-Cuban jazz. Now through Nov. 27 at 800 E. Grand Ave. on Navy Pier. (312) 595-5600. (chicagoshakes.com)

LYRIC OPERA: The Lyric is scheduling more afternoon performances than ever. Verdi’s powerful “Don Carlos,” set in 16th century Spain and considered as one of the greatest of all operas, will be presented with an all-star cast Nov. 9 at 7 p.m., Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 17 at 2 p.m., Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. and Nov. 25 at 7 p.m. Rossini’s rollicking comedy “Le Comte Ory,” starring ten or Lawrence Brownlee and soprano Kathryn Lewek, will be presented Nov. 13 at 2 p.m, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m, and Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Both operas will be conducted by Enrique Mazzola, only the third music director in Lyric’s history, after Bruno Bar toletti and Sir Andrew Davis. Mazzola, born in Barcelona and raised in Milan, is internationally renowned, especially as an expert in Verdi and in French operas. (lyricopera.org)

SYMPHONY CENTER: Dancers from the famed Joffrey Ballet will take the stage along with the Chicago Sym phony Orchestra, conducted by Harry Bicket, in musical performance of Rameau, Mozart, Wagner, and Ravel Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. (cso.org)

Highly praised conductor Manfred Honeck leads the CSO in Glinka, Auerbach and the Shostakovich Fifth Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 19 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 20 at 3 p.m. (csy.org)

The famed Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra visits Chicago and plays Mahler’s mysterious and thrilling Symphony No. 7, “The Song of the Night,” Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. Con ducting will be Kirill Petrenko, born to an Ukrainian father and a musicologist mother in a small town in Rus sia—a superlative and very modest musician who does not give interviews. (cso.org)

MERCURY THEATER presents the fun-loving comedy, “Clue,” based on the popular board game, now through

January 1 at 3745 N. Southport Ave. (773) 360-7635. (mercurytheaterchicago.com)

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO has two shows on the boards in Chicago in November. Disney’s spectacular musical, “The Lion King,” plays the Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Nov. 17 through Jan. 14. The ever-popular musical, “Wicked,” called the “untold story of the witches of Oz,” plays at the James M. Nederlander Theatre at 24 W. Randolph St., through Dec. 4. (broadwayinchicago.com)

INVICTUS THEATRE COMPANY, performing at the far-north Reginald Vaughn Theater at 1106 W. Thorndale Ave., presents a modern-dress production of Shake speare’s “Julius Caesar,” now through Nov. 20. (773) 2937117. (invictustheatreco.com)

And that’s just some of the great bounty November has to offer in Chicago.

Making a difference takes just one

Sometimes the most inspir ing people are the ones we pass each day.

Introducing Michael Trout, a regular Chicago guy. Grew up in the suburbs. Went to Whea ton College—a strict Christian school of old-school values and traditions. At the time, it was most famous for prohibiting stu dents from dancing on campus, and rumor was, holding hands and kissing were even considered questionable.

Trout, who would become a feisty and passionate leader, was not so keen on all those school rules—or the status quo for that matter. Right out of Wheaton, he married his college sweetheart, moved to North Lawndale, one

of Chicago’s most economical ly-deprived neighborhoods, and became what he calls a “night minister.”

It meant hanging out on street corners, developing relationships with gangbangers, drug deal ers and prostitutes and putting himself into dangerous situa tions night after night. It was an unusual choice for a 21-year-old white kid from the suburbs, but for Trout, it sure beat an intern ship at Merrill Lynch.

Local African American min ister John Spikner took young Trout under his wing and helped him gain access to the neighbor hood. Trout developed a talent for helping. He talked to the young men he met on the streets and counseled them. He listened to their problems and difficult situations. He offered advice,

assistance, food, money, whatever it took. But most of all, he cared. And people could tell. He was able to create real connections with some of Chicago’s toughest.

Before long, Trout’s off-thecuff street corner ministering turned into a lifelong mission. In 1996, Trout and a group of 12 boys started their own commu nity-based organization called the Young Men’s Educational Network, or YMEN as it’s known in Lawndale. Beginning with after school tutoring in Trout’s apartment, YMEN has steadily grown over the past 24 years and now serves 300 youth annually. Some 30 years later, Trout is still going strong with more than one hundred YMEN youth having gone on to college, the military and other meaningful careers.

Trout is not famous. You don’t

hear much about him in papers, magazines or online. He’s one of Chicago’s many unsung heroes you may pass every day. But his spirit, enthusiasm, and belief in kids who need someone to believe, have helped an awful lot of young boys become suc

cessful men.

For more information on Trout or his organization, visit ymenchicago.com or call (773) 522- 9636. Know of a story like Mike’s you’d like us to hear? Con tact the Chicago Star at: info@ chicagostarmedia.com.

saf e

There’s no place like a home for the holidays

The annual Sweet Home Chicago gingerbread house fundraiser benefits WINGS, Illinois’ largest

violence prevention agency.

Order your gingerbread house kits today

Kits include the gingerbread forms to

trimmings and icing to decorate it. A donation of $135 for a kit includes shipping anywhere in the U.S.

Visit WingsProgram.com to place your order

on

before Wednesday, November 30. Expect gingerbread house kits to arrive no later than Friday, December 9.

plus

Our tradition continues with SWEET HOME CHICAGO

Sunday, December 11, from 10am to 1pm

Every December since

With the leadership of Rita and John Canning, this fundraiser, designed

has raised $11.4 million for WINGS safe houses

programs to help families rebuild their lives.

A reason to believe: Why Gen Zers struggle to find their way

Ifyou think the post-pandemic staffing battle will end once you get your younger employees back in the office, you’ve got a rude awakening coming. Getting bodies back is a good start but only if hearts and minds follow. Younger, inexperienced employees are going to require an entirely new ap proach—and a lot of handholding.

To reach, recruit, and retain these people, you need a concrete plan and more than perks, pep talks and empty promises. You need to understand what’s really important to them at this challenging time in their lives. They may be intellectually concerned with climate change, clean air, and culture, but they’re viscerally fright ened about what the future holds for them personally.

The truth is what these kids need is stability, consisten cy and some sense of security in a world gone crazy and wildly unpredictable. They need a plan. And your busi ness needs a plan to help them see a realistic, achievable future and a clear path forward.

Here are five critical steps to the process.

First, plan and document a path for each team member: Here’s where you are, here’s where you’re headed, here are the skills you’ll need to be successful along the way, and here’s how long the process will take. Then include a summary of the end of the path: position description, responsibilities, title and compensation.

Second, regularly share with them the vision for the business’s future, what that will represent, why it’s a worthwhile undertaking and likely to make important

Chicago friends found nonprofit that lifts kids up

when I was ready to publish my book about Chicago called “Ninety Days In The 90s,” I thought it was a good idea to donate some of the proceeds to a local charity.

After all, I’ve been fortunate. I get to write for a living. I have a great family and quality of life. I also have good health, that is, if you downplay sports injuries that include mild concussions, balls to the face and groin, taxed knees, and a bro ken fibula from playing men’s roller derby. Anyhow, right before submitting my draft, I was asked by a friend to volunteer with KT’s Kids, a local activities-based charity. KT’s Kids was founded by Chicago therapist Katie Augustyn, Liar’s Club owner

BackHerb Rosen and a few friends. One day, the gang was talking over beers and decided to do more to make people’s lives better.

In Augustyn’s words: “In 2003, I was a social worker at Schwab Rehab Hospital and bartending at Liar’s Club at night. There was just so much need with the children that I worked with at Schwab, and it was frustrating and sad to see how kids couldn’t get basic needs met at times.”

After rallying to provide basics like winter hats and gloves, they acted to do more.“It’s important for kids to get out in the commu nity, play sports, interact with peers, go to fun events—all the typical childhood activities that children who are low income and dis abled cannot always access,” said Augustyn.

Their mission has since evolved. KT’s Kids now take children and teens on field trips to enjoy what our city has to offer. Most of the kids have physical disabilities that limit their ability to traverse the vast Museum of Science and Industry or walk around Soldier Field.

differences in their lives and how their own efforts and contributions will be an important part of making it real.

Third, give them the tools, training, and other resources they will need to be successful. Make it clear that they need to commit the time, attention and energy it will take to ac complish these things. If they’re not willing to invest in their futures, why would you, the company or anyone else do so?

Fourth, actively and demonstrably monitor their progress on a regular basis, provide constructive and critical feedback and let them know where to go for help and mentoring along the way. It’s important that the program be a company-wide commitment with participation at all levels of management.

Fifth, honor the efforts of the ones who are doing the work and making progress by booting the backsliders. In the venture world, we say that lemons ripen early and no one has ever been fired too soon. The process and the ultimate outcomes are too important to accept mediocre performance.

Bottom line: if they don’t believe, you can bet they’ll leave.

Howard Tullman is a Chicago Star board member and G2T3V general managing partner.

The first time I volunteered, it was a Bulls game versus the Philadelphia 76ers. That Saturday night I was assigned a kid to take care of—to hang with, to talk about sports, video games, or whatever they’re into, and to spoil them a bit with conces sions and Bulls souvenirs.

Each December, KT’s Kids hosts a fund raiser show at Liar’s featuring performanc es by bands like Local H, Naked Raygun, Pegboy, Dummy, and Stiff Little Fingers.

Please consider donating or volunteering for the activity, the fun, and the rock ’n’ roll party too. A fundraiser will be held at Liar’s Club on Sunday, Dec. 18, 1665 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, 7-11 p.m., (773) 665-1110.

Sportswriter/author Andy Frye has writ ten for ESPN Chicago and Rolling Stone. His new book about Chicago, NINETY DAYS IN THE 90s, is out now.

Reverse the curse on sugar

Imayget in trouble with doctors, nu tritionists and other assorted health professionals with this column, but recently I came across a store and a franchise that looks at the dangers of eating too much sugar and candy and responds with a solid and definitive “right back at you!” mentality.

I have always been a fan of a little reverse psychology (regular psycholo gy never really resonated with me) so I was intrigued.

IT’SUGAR opened at 717 N. Michigan Ave. in April of this year, and it’s best described as big, bold, colorful and all about the joys of candy, sweets and treats.

Their take, or lack thereof, on healthy eating and the dan gers of too much sugar is a little playful and done with a clear sense of humor and a little “why not enjoy life” theme.

The signs inside and outside the location pretty much tell the tale: “Less rules, more sugar,” “Dessert before dinner,” “Candy doesn’t judge,” “Candy, part of a colorful diet,” “One chocolate bar… is half the calories of two!,” “Join the sugar high club,” “Treat yo’self,” and my personal favorite—“It’s sugar, absolutely no nutritional value added.”

As you can see, they don’t shy away from the evils of sugar, actually quite the opposite. The company’s marketing strate gy not only encourages the sugar splurge but helps you revel, guilt free, in the delight of buying your favorite sweets.

Trust your friendly reporter here, if you are a candy man or a candy fan, this is your place. It has literally every kind of candy imaginable (to attempt to describe all here would be a lesson in futility).

Even if you are not a fan of the chosen sweet, you might just check it out for its incredibly colorful presentation. The place is bursting with bright colors and might be the only store in Chi cago where you need to wear sunglasses inside the store. Bad moods are turned good simply by going through the doors.

My favorite item? As I wandered over to the kids’ section, I noticed a special cereal box for sale that included nothing but colorful candy marshmallows, the kind you see in Lucky Charms cereal.

The motto on the box? “No more picking the cereal out of your Lucky Charms marshmallows.”

I love it! That reverse psychology again. Yes, we all have to watch our health and try to be nutritionally conscious, but part of good health is the stress relief of having our treats and enjoying them too, right? Sorry, doctors.

Jon Cohn is a New Eastside resident. Email ideas for Jon to info@chicagostarmedia.com