CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – PORTAGE PARK LINCOLN PARK SOUTH LOOP GOLD COAST OAK PARK
CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – PORTAGE PARK LINCOLN PARK SOUTH LOOP GOLD COAST OAK PARK
It’s that awkward part of year where it’s still cold and potentially gross out yet time to get serious about shedding that winter "softness" for an active summer ahead. Look no further than your computer.
An undefeated mixed-martial-arts fighter Nick Wernimont has formed a team with Chef Anthony Fiore to work on the menu a Duke University strength-and-conditioning coach and a PhD holder in nutrition to create Factor 75 a new meal-delivery service in Chicago. Choose a week’s supply of tasty and healthy meals online such as detox salads pasta-free butternut squash lasagna and fish tacos. After placing the order the meals arrive to your door within 48 hours. Preparing ahead for the week has never been so healthy easy or delicious.
LINCOLN PARK
It’s that time of year for the Lincoln Park Zoo "Sleep Under the Skyscrapers" events! On March 8 and April 12 grab nighttime gear and have an indoor overnight adventure. For families and groups with children ages 5-12 the evening begins with dinner followed by opportunities to explore the nightlife of the zoo’s residents. Touch the scales of a blue-tongued skink watch the chimpanzees settle into their nests hear stories from zoo experts and wind down with a movie and snack before turning in for the night. To just participate in the Evening Encounter (6-10pm) it costs $42 ($35 for members). For those brave adventurous souls the Full Overnight (6pm – 8:30am) is $70 ($60 for members).
SOUTH LOOP
A brand new one-of-a-kind children’s playroom Sod Room has opened in the South Loop neighborhood at 1454 S Michigan Ave 2nd Floor. Not only is the indoor playspace fully green and eco-friendly they offer resources and eduction for parents to embark on a eco-friendly lifestyle as well. Chicago Parent magazine recently stated that the Sod Room is "the first truly green play space in the city." This valuable community resource was created by Chicago Public School teacher Cynthia Valenciana herself a mother of two young children. Wondering how to spend an afternoon with children? Seek out the Sod Room to see if it’s playtime!
GOLD COAST
Just west of the Gold Coast an epic night-club entertainment megaplex has opened in the old Excalibur location at 623 N Dearborn. Named Castle visitors can hack together a choose-your-own-adventure style evening by exploring all the different options available. To start the evening have a delicious meal at the Craft Pub & Eatery of hand-tossed brick-over baked pizzas with microbrew draft beers to wash it down. Afterward wander into Cabaret for live comedy or performance on their stage. Ready to dance? Jump into Palladium for some intense sound and light technology and shake your booty. End your evening with a night-cap in Sanctuary an intimate environment conducive to philosophical discussions.
OAK PARK
In the trend of home-delivered hand prepared meals a brand new business in Oak Park is sure to explode as those in town hear about it. Food Obsession a kitchen from local chef Daniel Vogel is bringing his farm-to-table ideals onto the dinner table. Food Obsession is a catering service but they are offering homemade dinners available by pre-order. Vogel hopes to eventually offer kids’ cooking classes and create events to engage the community like BBQ contests in the summer. For more information about upcoming meals and catering options call 708-763-9935. The online meal menu will be available soon.
CATHY MALLERS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO
