Even if you haven’t passed 60 yet (like I have), it’s never too early to start thinking about your brain health. So even though these tips are mainly for those of us over 60, they’re a good idea for anyone of any age!
Keep moving. Exercise is probably the single most important thing you can do to enhance your brain’s function and resilience to disease. Inactivity is one of the most significant risk factors for dementia. Exercise reduces inflammation while stimulating the function and growth of neural cells. Aerobic exercise gives cognitive benefits, though exercise like weightlifting is important too as it builds muscle. But it really doesn’t take much—even a short walk every day makes a difference.
Get enough sleep. Sleeping well is one of the most effective ways to improve brain function. It seems to clear the brain of debris that can build and cause problems. While it is important to rest it’s better to replace daytime naps with a walk out in nature. You can also add a gratitude practice to reduce stress for better sleep. Taking breaks from emails and social media can definitely reduce stress.
Challenge your brain. Taking a class or learning a second language provides fun, complex challenges. But its nor just about academic challenges! Finding something you enjoy that also gives you a sense of purpose helps the brain stay in shape. Something like community volunteering can be especially fulfilling.
Eat well. The best diet is a Mediterranean one—rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, poultry, fish, and olive oil. Stay away from refined sugars and overly processed foods. Stay hydrated. Add more Omega-3 fatty acids from fish (not pills). Reduce portions and try intermittent fasting. Pro tip: plan ahead and have healthy snacks handy when you get hungry!
Build connections. Having close relationships may help you to live longer. Loneliness seems to be a factor in developing Alzheimer’s. Combine socializing with other activities that get you moving or learning. Staying connected virtually, while less than ideal, can be helpful if you live remotely without many social supports.
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Embark on a journey towards a more harmonious and simplified way of living with our exploration of effortless living and the art of streamlining your daily schedule. In a world filled with constant busyness and distractions, finding peace and balance amidst the chaos is a valuable pursuit.
Discover how embracing mindfulness and presence can transform your everyday experiences, and learn how to overcome challenges to stay committed to a life of ease and balance. Join us on this transformative path towards effortless living, where less truly becomes more.
Understanding the Benefits of Simplifying Your Daily Schedule
Improving Overall Well-being through Simplification
Simplifying your daily schedule isn’t just about having more time for Netflix binges (although that’s a perk). It’s also about reducing stress, boosting mental clarity, and improving your overall well-being. By decluttering your calendar and focusing on what truly matters, you can pave the way for a more balanced and zen-like existence.
Enhancing Productivity and Efficiency
When you streamline your daily schedule, magic happens. Okay, maybe not magic, but you do become a productivity ninja. By cutting out time-wasting activities and honing in on what needs to get done, you’ll find yourself breezing through tasks like a pro. Say goodbye to that never-ending to-do list and hello to getting stuff done like a boss.
Strategies for Streamlining Your Daily Routine
Identifying Time-consuming Tasks and Processes
Let’s face it, we all have those tasks that seem to suck up more time than a black hole. Take a good look at your daily routine and pinpoint those time bandits. Once you identify them, you can come up with game plans to tackle them more efficiently and reclaim your precious minutes.
Implementing Time-saving Techniques and Tools
From fancy apps to good old-fashioned sticky notes, there are plenty of tools and techniques out there to help you streamline your daily grind. Whether it’s setting up reminders, creating time blocks, or outsourcing tasks, finding ways to save time can make a world of difference in how smoothly your day flows.
Prioritizing Tasks and Eliminating Time Wasters
Effective Prioritization Methods for Daily Tasks
Prioritizing tasks is like playing a game of Tetris with your to-do list. By figuring out what needs to be done first, what can wait, and what can be delegated (hello, intern), you can avoid the stress of feeling overwhelmed and ensure that the important stuff gets done without breaking a sweat.
Identifying and Eliminating Time-wasting Activities
We all have those sneaky time-wasting activities that creep into our day like uninvited guests. Whether it’s getting lost in a social media vortex or reorganizing your sock drawer for the fifth time this week, identifying these culprits is the first step to kicking them to the curb. Time to say goodbye to the vampires draining your precious minutes and hello to a more efficient and streamlined daily schedule.
Creating Habits for Sustainable Simplicity
Developing Daily Rituals and Routines
Incorporating simple daily rituals and routines can streamline your schedule and create a sense of structure. Whether it’s starting your day with a calming cup of tea or ending it with a reflective journal session, find habits that resonate with you and help simplify your life.
Cultivating a Minimalist Mindset for Long-term Simplification
Embracing a minimalist mindset involves valuing quality over quantity, decluttering physical and mental spaces, and focusing on what truly matters to you. By adopting this approach, you can create lasting simplicity in your life and prioritize the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Embracing Mindfulness and Presence in Everyday Life
Practicing Mindfulness Techniques for Increased Awareness
Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can help increase your awareness of the present moment. By being mindful of your thoughts and feelings, you can navigate daily challenges with more clarity and calmness.
Fostering Presence and Engagement in Daily Activities
Engaging fully in your daily activities, whether it’s washing dishes or taking a walk, can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy to even the simplest tasks. By focusing on the present moment and immersing yourself in what you’re doing, you can cultivate a deeper connection to your surroundings and yourself.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Committed to Effortless Living
Addressing Common Obstacles to Simplification
From procrastination to self-doubt, various obstacles can hinder your journey towards effortless living. By identifying these challenges and developing strategies to overcome them, you can stay on track and maintain a simplified lifestyle.
Maintaining Motivation and Consistency
Finding motivation and staying consistent in your efforts to simplify your life can be challenging. Celebrate small wins, seek support from friends or family, and remember why you started this journey in the first place. By staying motivated and consistent, you can embrace effortless living with ease.
Bottom-line
Embrace the power of simplicity, prioritize what truly matters, and cultivate a life rich in ease and balance. By committing to streamlining your schedule, practicing mindfulness, and overcoming challenges with resilience, you are paving the way for a more fulfilling and harmonious way of living. Here’s to a future marked by simplicity, presence, and the joy of effortless living.
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Need a break this weekend from your first full week of work for 2025? Here’s some suggestions for taking that break this weekend!
There’s no better time than now to begin planning some of your summer adventures as the Chicago Boat Show takes place this Saturday (10 a.m.-8 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at their new location, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (5555 N. River Rd.) in Rosemont. This year’s show will showcase hundreds of new boats for sale from the area’s leading dealers where you can browse, compare and take advantage of show-only deals. Also, visitors will be able to gear up on the latest boating accessories, marine electronics, and on-the-water must-haves from top brands. In addition to the boats, this year’s show will include fun for all ages with the following must-see attractions that include the Huck Finn Trout Pond which is a show tradition; Bumper Boats for a splash-tastic adventure; the Discover Boating Beach Club where you can enjoy live music, island-inspired cocktails, play beach games, and more; Fred’s Shed for some tips, tricks, and DIY advice from the experts; and the Paddlefest Pool for some stand-up paddleboarding. It’s Chicago’s largest and longest-running annual boating event and not to be missed!
The police need your help at Watson Adventures’ Whodunit Scavenger Hunt this Saturday (2 p.m.-4 p.m.) at the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave.) in The Loop. A crazed killer is on the loose and has created a scavenger hunt that, when completed, will reveal his name, the weapon he used, and where he hid the body. Five works of art will reveal his identity, the murder weapon, and the location of the body, but which five? By following the trail of clues and answering tricky questions, you’ll narrow the list of suspects, weapons, and places. There’s also a Kids Edition for ages 10 and up in which kids and adults work together to crack the case. Are you up for a challenge?
Calling all chocolate lovers! Hersey’s has brought its first ever immersive attraction, the Hershey Super Sweet Adventure to Water Tower Place (835 N. Michigan Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood. This family-friendly interactive journey will have you dive into a hands-on, story-based adventure with playful challenges and delightful activities within multiple workshop zones inspired by various Hershey treats. These include the Cup Stuffer Supreme (Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup); the Intense-O-Meter (Jolly Rancher); the Share Shop (Hershey’s Kisses); and the Twistology Hub (Twizzlers). Plus, when you’re finished, stop by the retail store to snag some limited-edition merch!
For our sports enthusiasts out there, the United Center (1901 W. Madison St.) on the Near West Side will be hosting the following games this weekend:
Lookout – Here Come the Hawks! Our Chicago Blackhawks will take on the Edmonton Oilers this Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; and
Come Cheer on the Bulls! Our Chicago Bulls will take on the Sacramento Kings this Sunday from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
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The answer lies in the heart of Chicago’s Near North Side, at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior Street. The Poetry Foundation’s Library is the Midwest’s only library dedicated to poetry.
The modern structure is full of the history of poetry, its relevance to today, and its everlasting impact on life itself. The ground floor houses an acoustically fine-tuned, 125-seat room for poetry readings and a non-circulating library whose volumes of poetry stand side by side on wood shelves, “like skinny soldiers,” according to the Tribune at its opening. There even is a ceremonial, visiting office for whoever happens to be America’s poet laureate. (NOTE: It’s currently Ada Limón, who began an historic second term in September 2023.)
Visitors may browse a collection of 40,000 volumes of poetry, experience audio and video recordings in private listening booths, and view exhibitions of poetry-related materials. In addition to providing public access to its collections in a reading room, the library hosts interactive workshops, programs, and book clubs to inspire a wider readership for poetry in people of all ages.
History
According to its website, Poetry Magazine was founded in Chicago by Harriet Monroe in 1912.
Poetry Magazine is the oldest monthly journal devoted to verse in the English-speaking world. Harriet Monroe’s “Open Door” policy, outlined in volume one, remains the most succinct statement of Poetry’s mission: to print the best poetry written today, in whatever style, genre, or approach. In recent years, nearly half of the poets published in Poetry have been first-time contributors.
Their website chronicles the long march of the poetry community to remain relevant in a digitally changing world. The 21st Century version of the Poetry Foundation was established in 2003 after receiving a major gift from philanthropist and poetess Ruth Lilly. Back then, it was called the Modern Poetry Association, which was a literary organization founded in 1941 to support the publication of Poetry Magazine.
Lilly’s gift allowed the Poetry Foundation to expand and enhance the presence of poetry in the United States and established an endowment that will fund the advancement of poetry for many generations through grants, awards, preserving the archives, and hosting events.
Part of the Lilly bequest was used to build the Poetry Foundation structure. Designed by architect John Ronan, the building opened in 2011. It houses the poetry library, reading spaces, and free events, all open to the public, and provides office and editorial space for the Poetry Foundation and Poetry magazine staff.
Poetry Library
The library presents a wide selection of modern and contemporary poetry in English or translation. It includes original author works and rare volumes. It also includes representative samples of earlier eras, and includes a 3,000-volume children’s section. In addition to the reading room, there are listening booths for poet audio recordings and broadcasts related to poetry and interactive displays.
Upcoming Event
On Monday, January 13, from 6pm-8pm, author Maggie Queeney will present ‘Forms & Features: Fear & Failure,’ a generative poetry workshop for adults 18 and older, exploring how fear and failure shape our creative practices. Participants will read and discuss a wide variety of texts and poems before composing poems of their own. Many other events are scheduled for the month of January. The Foundation hosts several events a month for amateur and professional poets, and can be found by clicking here.
The Poetry Foundation is open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 11am–5pm, and on Thursday from 11am-6pm. They are closed Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. For more information, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2025/01/article-neighborhood-010925jpg.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2025-01-09 14:11:482025-01-09 14:12:37Neighborhood News: Near North Side’s Poetry Foundation celebrates “the power of words to transform lives”
If one of your New Year’s resolutions has been to try different cuisines and explore Chicago’s vast cultural landscape, there is no better way to start 2025 than with a trip to Uptown’s Demera.
The brainchild of Chef/Owner Tigist Reda, opened in 2007, your adventure begins with appetizers like AMBASHA, the traditional skillet baked bread, served with your choice of spicy Ayib Be Mitmita, Ethiopian farmer’s cheeseflavored with mitmita and spiced butter, or mild Ayib Be Gomen, Ethiopian farmer’s cheese flavored with collard greens. Or, try KAY SEER SALATA, a colorful mix of beets with onion, sliced and seeded jalapeño topped with a fresh lime vinaigrette. SAMBUSSAS are fried dumplings filled with your choice of chicken, beef, spinach, cheese or lentil, served with a sweet and spicy honey awaze sauce.
Entrées include a spicy DORO WOT, Amish chicken in berbere sauce served bone-in with a hardboiled egg and ayib (farmer’s cheese), or DORO TIBS, which is a chicken breast, cubed and sautéed with onions, garlic, tomatoes, sliced jalapeño peppers and fresh rosemary. Beef lovers will enjoy SIGA ALICHA, which is tender cubed beef cooked in a savory alicha sauce, or spicy AWAZE TIBS, lean beef sautéed with onions, garlic and jalapeño peppers and a spicy awaze (citrus red chili) sauce. Seafood lovers will enjoy YE-ASA LEB LEB, which are tilapia filets, cubed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and seeded jalapeño peppers. Vegan entrées include tasty combinations like spicy MISIR WOT, split red lentils stewed in a rich berbere sauce. INGUDAI TIBS are sautéed mushrooms with garlic, onions and ginger, while KIK ALICHA pairssplit yellow peas, stewed with onions, garlic and tumeric.
As we often say here, leave room for dessert!! Try their take on ETHIOPIAN STYLE TIRAMISU, which are ladyfinger cookies soaked in homemade Buna and brandy, then layered with mascarpone cheese, and covered in ground chocolate. Their CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE WITH RED CHAI ICE CREAM is a vegan chocolate cheesecake topped with our fresh shaved toasted coconut, served with Pretty Cool Ice Cream’s vegan-based red chai ice cream.
“If you’re looking for fascinating Ethiopian food, this is the place to go to! If you’re looking for vegan food, this is the place to go to! If you’re looking for a place masterfully decorated, this is the place to go to! If you want great service from lovely people who smile at you, this is your place! My only recommendation is: play Ethiopian music in the salon!”
Demera is located at 4801 N. Broadway, and has another location at Timeout Market in the West Loop. Sunday through Thursday, their Broadway location is open 11:30am- 8:30pm, and 11:30am to 9:30pm on Friday and Saturday. For more information and reservations,click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2025/01/article-review-010825.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2025-01-08 13:49:582025-01-08 13:49:59Restaurant Review: New Year, New Adventures at Uptown’s Demera, an Ethiopian Delight
We all want to de-clutter and downsize. We are tired of looking at things that don’t bring purpose into our lives. But, sometimes emotional reasons keep us from taking any real action. Studies have found that those who hang onto a lot of household objects have more of the stress hormone cortisol. Here are some suggestions from professional organizers to finally deal with all that “stuff”:
Rethink your relationship to your stuff. Instead of thinking about how much you love something, think about how well it serves your life. Don’t give away precious physical or mental real estate to things you don’t use. Yes, you may love that sweater, but have you worn it in the last year? Trash, recycle or donate!
Try “clear 10” — then do it again. Take half an hour to gather up 10 items you haven’t used in a long time. Don’t think, just toss! Categories don’t matter, volume does. Yesterday I threw out 5 beauty products I haven’t used in ages. Then 5 utensils out of the junk drawer. It can be tough but I’m sure we all could find 10 things to toss that we don’t need. Even the best professional organizers can have a hard time.
Practice the “one comes in, one comes out” method. This is especially important for folks who live in a small space. When you bring something in it has to have a space to live. This will help you when you find yourself impulse buying. If you have to think first, “what am I going to get rid of to bring this in?” – it will curb some of those mindless purchases. Try not to order online. It’s way too easy to buy without thinking.
Schedule your organizing time. Consider these as important as any work appointment. Pick out a few hours to file paperwork and pay bills, taking care of business. Another day can be your home day. 2 hours to tackle a closet or pantry. Set a time limit. The task seems less daunting if you know you’ll be done in a few hours. You’ll be surprised how the time flies. Not done? Stop and finish at the next home appointment or keep going to finish, your choice.
Staying organized doesn’t mean being perfect. It’s about finding systems and ways that work for you. It can get emotional, but the effort is worth it. Make your living space work for you, not the other way around.
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Houseplants bring life and vibrancy to our indoor spaces, but during the winter months, caring for them requires special attention. The drop in temperature, reduced sunlight, and dry indoor air can pose challenges to the well-being of our botanical companions. In this guide, we will explore essential tips and strategies to help you nurture your houseplants through the winter season, ensuring they thrive and flourish despite the seasonal changes.
Adjusting Light and Temperature Levels
Assessing Light Conditions in Winter
Winter can be tough on houseplants, with shorter daylight hours and weaker sunlight. Evaluate your plant’s current light exposure to see if any adjustments are needed.
Positioning Plants for Optimal Sunlight
Move your plants closer to windows or invest in grow lights to provide sufficient light during the darker winter months. Rotate plants regularly to ensure even growth.
Managing Watering and Humidity
Adjusting Watering Frequency
Plants tend to need less water in the winter due to slower growth rates and reduced evaporation. Check the soil moisture before watering to prevent overwatering.
Monitoring Indoor Humidity Levels
Central heating can lead to dry indoor air, which can be detrimental to plants. Increase humidity by misting plants, using a humidifier, or placing plants on a pebble tray with water.
Pruning and Maintenance Tasks
Trimming Dead or Yellowing Leaves
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and prevent the spread of disease. Prune leggy growth to maintain a compact shape.
Checking for Overcrowding and Repotting Needs
Inspect your plants for overcrowded roots or signs of being root-bound. Repot if necessary to provide fresh nutrients and space for healthy growth.
Protecting Plants from Drafts and Cold
Positioning Away from Drafty Areas
Drafts can shock plants and hinder their growth. Keep plants away from cold windows, doors, and vents to protect them from temperature fluctuations.
Insulating Plants during Cold Snaps
During extreme cold snaps, consider moving sensitive plants to a warmer location or covering them with a plant blanket or cloth to shield them from the cold. Monitor temperatures regularly to prevent frost damage.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases
Recognizing Common Winter Pests
During winter, pesky critters like spider mites and mealybugs can cozy up to your houseplants. Keep an eye out for any signs of these unwanted guests making themselves at home.
Preventative Measures and Treatment Options
To combat these freeloaders, try a simple insecticidal soap spray or a neem oil solution. Quarantine any infested plants to prevent the spread of bugs, and show them the door with a gentle wipe down or shower.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
Understanding the Importance of Proper Soil Composition
The right potting mix can make or break your plant’s winter hibernation. Opt for a well-draining mix that will keep your green pals cozy without letting their roots turn into a soggy mess.
Selecting Well-Draining Mixes for Winter Care
Look for mixes labeled specifically for succulents or cacti if you have them in your indoor garden. These blends are like the Lululemon leggings of soil—breathable and moisture-wicking!
Providing Proper Nutrients and Fertilization
Adjusting Fertilizer Regimen for Winter Growth
In the winter months, your plants are basically in hibernation mode, so ease up on the fertilizer. They don’t need as much food during this time, so go easy on the buffet line!
Choosing Organic vs. Synthetic Fertilizers
When it comes to fertilizer, some plants are all about that organic lifestyle while others are more chill with synthetic options. Know your plant’s preferences to keep them happy and thriving.
Tips for Reviving Stressed or Dormant Plants
Reviving Overwatered or Underwatered Plants
If your plant is feeling a bit crispy or waterlogged, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Give them a little TLC, and they’ll perk up in no time.
Encouraging Growth in Dormant Plants
For plants that are hitting the snooze button on growth, introduce some gentle sunlight, keep the temperature comfy, and maybe even whisper some words of encouragement. They’ll stretch and yawn back to life soon enough!
Bottom-line
Remember to observe your plants closely, adjust their care as needed, and enjoy the beauty they bring to your home year-round. With a little extra effort and attention, your houseplants will continue to thrive and brighten up your living space even in the coldest of months.
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Welcome to the first weekend of 2025 as we wrap up the 2024 Holiday Season here in Chicago for another year!
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be transported into a wonderland of holiday delights at this year’s Winterland at Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood which wraps up this weekend. This thrilling and one-of-a-kind immersive holiday experience takes you on a journey through winter landscapes with photo ops, past snow-covered forests, a giant snow globe, a 16 foot-long Polar Express-themed train, frozen icicle walkways, oversized ornaments, giant Christmas trees and nutcracker soldiers, and so much more. Then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or hot apple cider. You’ll be wowed by the kaleidoscope of colors and winter scenes at this whimsical world of festive enchantment!
The following holiday events are also wrapping up this weekend:
The Lincoln Park Zoolights takes place at Lincoln Park Zoo (North Cannon Dr. and West Fullerton Pkwy.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Celebrating three decades of priceless holiday memories, this beloved staple of Chicago’s holiday season offers festive attractions and over 3 million lights across the zoo grounds for guests of all ages. Zoolights is one of the largest displays of holiday lights within the city limits and shouldn’t be missed!
The Jack Frost Christmas Pop-Up takes place at Fulton Market (170 N. Green St.) in the West Loop. This outdoor Christmas adventure on two-acres boasts a Christmas market; plenty of photo ops; a variety of activities like bumper cars, axe throwing, ice skating; and more!
The Santa Baby Christmas Bar takes place at Bamboo Bar (3505 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. This immersive, multi-level pop-up bar features wall-to-wall holiday décor, photo ops galore, drinks decked out with decorative garnishes and garlands, and offers a festive feast of food options. Also, families are welcome during the day; however, after 8:00 p.m. it’s 21+!
Finally, Frosty’s Christmas Bar Pop-Up takes place at 809 East Evergreen Avenue near Goose Island in the River North neighborhood. This event offers three levels of festive fun, four bars, two dance floors, life-size toy soldiers, over-the-top decorations, and more!
For those who have had enough of the holiday season, perhaps one of the following suggestions might interest you:
Making a triumphant return to Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph St.) in The Loop is Les Misérables with a 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. show on Saturday and wrapping up with a final show at 1 p.m. on Sunday. This epic musical is set in 19th century France and tells a timeless story of broken dreams, unrequited love, sacrifice, and passion along with a magnificent score of songs!
Making its first-ever North American tour, Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child takes center stage at the James M. Nederlander Theatre (24 W. Randolph St.) in The Loop and runs through February 1st. You’ll enjoy a mind-blowing race through time with spectacular spells and an epic battle brought to life with the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Farmer’s Markets are a staple of Chicago communities in the summer, but did you know that Chicago has indoor markets operating during the winter months?
After all, the harvests of local farmers continue throughout the year!
In Avondale, Green City Market (GCM) 3031 N. Rockwell Street, operates an indoor market nearly every Saturday, from 8 am-1pm, through March 22. (Note: They are closed January 4.)
GCM was founded 26 years ago by the late food writerAbby Mandel, who worked with chefsSarah Stegner, Rick Bayless, and many others to catalyze the culinary community’s support of local food. They’ve brought together farmers, bakeries, butchers, and small-batch producers under one roof.
Stegner, owner of Prairie City Cafe, was known for vegetable soups starring exceptional produce like over-wintered spinach. “In the wintertime, the stems freeze, and when they do, they become sweeter and sweeter, so it’s like candy,” she explained to WTTW in a 2024 GCM profile.
Accessible Food for All
“Access to local food is a right, not a privilege,” Mandy Moody, the executive director of GCM, told WTTW in a 2024 profile. “Everyone should have access to locally grown, sustainably produced food.”
To this end, according to their website, expanding access to nutritious, local, sustainably-produced food is one of the core pillars of GCM. They welcome and triple Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (also known as Link in Illinois or EBT nationally.)
Shoppers with SNAP/Link cards receive triple the value of their benefits up to $25 at Green City Market. That means when folks spend $25 of SNAP benefits using a Link card, they receive $75 to spend: $50 in GCM For All vouchers or tokens that may be used on any SNAP-eligible item and $25 in Link Up Illinois vouchers that are restricted to fruits and vegetables only. GCM will continue to double the value of any benefits spent past $25 on a single market day.
Additionally, ince 2012, Green City Market has partnered with food pantries like Nourishing Hope (formerly Lakeview Pantry) and the Love Fridge to recover food grown by local, sustainable farmers and provide it to Chicagoans facing food insecurity all over the city. Since 2020, Green City Market has supplemented these donations with produce grown in their 5,000 square foot teaching garden.
At the end of each market, farmers donate unsold produce, herbs, meats, eggs, dairy products, bread, and non-perishable items — food that otherwise may have gone to waste — directly to feed community residents facing food insecurity.
For more information about the Green City Market, click here.
Logan Square Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday through March 29, the Logan Square Farmer’s Market (LSqFM), 2537 N. Pulaski Road, is open from 9am –1pm.
Powered by the Logan Square Chamber of Commerce, the market, according to its website, provides an outlet for nutritious, conscientiously grown and produced local foods, as well as education about these foods, for the community regardless of income.
“We love our farmers, and we serve more and more farmers every year,” Nilda Esparza, executive director of the chamber, told Eater.com in 2024. “The Chamber supports farmers by connecting them to the city dwellers in Logan Square — and many other Chicago neighborhoods — because it believes that this in turn supports businesses and residents in our community.”
In 2008, they became the first Farmer’s Market in the State of Illinois to process EBT for LINK Card Users. This program is also known as the, “Double Match Program” or “Link Up Program,” and is organized by Link Up Illinois.
Link purchases are matched dollar-for-dollar for fresh fruits and vegetables.
For more information about the indoor Logan Square Farmer’s Market, click here.
The History of Food Markets
According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago History, whiskey may have been the first manufactured “food” product. By 1812, members of the Kinzie clan had set up a still to sell their product from a shack. The first brewery was established in 1833. A market at the corners of Lake and State Streets was superceded by a municipal market hall built in the middle of State Street in 1848.
As the Industrial Revolution created an ever-increasing number of processed foods, grocery stores replaced the open-air markets.
One notable exception was the Maxwell Street open-air market that flourished from the 1890s to 1980s.
However, a century later, rising interest in fresh foods led to the re-appearance of farmers’ markets in the city in the late 1980s. During the growing season, local produce was trucked in and sold by farmers in various locations throughout the city. Soon, there were hundreds of Farmer’s Markets throughout Chicago communities, most of them running May-October annually. That’s why indoor markets are precious commodities in winter months.
As legend has it, Roscoe Village’s original ‘hangover brunch’ (come in your pajamas!) began at Kitsch’n, and for 26 years, Chicago families have welcomed the new year here, with Kitsch’n’s award-winning comfort food and brunch menu.
I’m all for a place that describes itself as a casual neighborhood spot, where you’ll find “a hip 70’s “funk-ploitation theme & too many tongue-in-cheek cultural decor references to mention.”
Year-round outdoor dining is another cool feature here. Kitsch’n ‘s backyard garden is heated and tented for inclement weather.
And pajamas are encouraged on New Year’s Day, where they’re open from 10am-3pm and serving, as noted by Chicago Parent, Fried Chicken & Waffles,Huevos Locos (Spicy Crazy Eggs) which are scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo, pepper-jack cheese, mango-mojito salsa; and warm tortillas. Most appropriately, you could also try The Hangover Breakfast Wrap.
Sam, I Am…and Other Delights
Not to get ‘Suessical,’ but I’m partial to Green Eggs n’ Ham, which mixes scrambled eggs with nut-free basil pesto, smoked ham, scallions, and spinach, and served with rosemary hash browns. Pesto Eggs In A Basket features Texas toast griddled with eggs cooked over-easy inside, cherry tomato, and nut-free pesto, served with their signature rosemary hashbrowns. Chilaquiles “Levanta Los Muertos” (raise the dead)– is a mix of scrambled eggs with fried tortillas, smoky chipotle salsa, pepper-jack cheese, served with with bacon and lime crema garnish.
Chalino’s Basket has country Farm Bread (2) griddled with butter and eggs cooked inside (over-medium), and topped with fried black beans, chorizo & pico de gallo. On the sweeter side is Coconut French Toast, with rich egg/cream batter dipped in challah bread, then butter-griddled with fresh coconut shreds and tangy/sweet raspberry sauce.
Those seeking a new life in 2025 may well try Mario’sHuevos Divorciados (literally, ‘divorced eggs.’) Two fried tortillas are topped with your choice of eggs, and paired with salsa verde on one side and smokey chipotle on the other. The taste demands that it be shared as community property!
Lunch specials share equal time here, and Kitsch’ n sandwiches, burgers and paninis include your choice of french fries or mixed greens & dressing. Try their Kitsch’n Tuna Melt, served open-faced with caramelized pepper-jack cheese. Or their Tennessee Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich, coming witha golden crispy thigh, a brioche bun, sweet & spicy pickles, creamy coleslaw, and spicy mayo. Chicken Pesto Panini hasgrilled chicken, basil pesto, and mozzarella inside thick panini bread with olive oil and grilled on the press, while Fish Tacos are made with batter-dipped cod, chipotle aioli, mango mojito salsa, red onion and cilantro slaw, and served with tortilla chips, pico de gallo and lime.
For a combination breakfast/lunch, try the Breakfast Burger, served with fried egg, chorizo, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, and secret sauce.
Resolved to eat lighter in 2025? Chicken Cesar Salad is a bowl of crisp romaine, topped with parmesan cheese, croutons and cesar dressing. Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad has crisp romaine lettuce, topped with grilled chicken breast, chopped bacon, hard-boiled egg, tomato, and avocado with blue cheese dressing.
Wash it all down with specialty drinks like Purple-Haze Vodka Lemonade, which pairs vodka and fresh-squeezed purple lemonade. The Original Tang-Tini has vodka, TangTM, orange, and amaraschino cherry. Kung-Fu Tiki Mai Tai pairs dark rum with pineapple, orange, lime juice, and a cherry.
Google reviews were exemplary:
“I’ve eaten here many times and every time its exceptional! The owners are so nice, the service is always amazing, and the food is so tasty! I’ve tried a lot of different things on the menu but every time I’m impressed. My favorites are the Pesto Eggs in a Basket or the Chicken Pesto Panini, and anything that comes with the Rosemary Hashbrowns. I also recommend the mimosas! If you want an affordable, delicious brunch I’d recommend coming here.”
Kitsch’n is located at 2005 W. Roscoe Street. They are open Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-2pm, Friday from 7:30am-2pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 7:30am-3pm. Reservations are available. Click here for details and information.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2025/01/article-review-010125.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2025-01-01 14:09:272025-01-01 14:09:28Restaurant Review: Celebrate 2025 in your jammies at Roscoe Village’s Kitsch’n
