Grill, Gather, Relax: Summer Entertaining Made Easy

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BBQ table scene with hamburgers, classic salads and snacks over dark wood stock photo

There’s something about summer that naturally brings people together. Longer days, warm evenings, and the aroma of food on the grill create the perfect setting for making memories. The best part? You don’t need a sprawling backyard or an elaborate outdoor kitchen to host a gathering your guests will love.

Here are a few simple ways to make summer entertaining easy, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Keep the Menu Simple

One of the biggest mistakes hosts make is trying to prepare too much. Instead, focus on a few crowd favorites that are easy to cook and serve.

Classic burgers, grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, fruit salads, and corn on the cob are always popular choices. Consider setting up a toppings bar or asking guests to bring a favorite side dish or dessert. Potluck-style gatherings often take the pressure off the host while giving everyone a chance to contribute.

Create Comfortable Seating

You don’t need matching patio furniture for a welcoming outdoor space. Mix benches, folding chairs, outdoor cushions, and even picnic blankets to create cozy conversation areas.

Arrange seating so guests naturally gather in small groups, making it easy for everyone to chat and relax.

Add a Little Ambiance

As the sun begins to set, lighting can completely transform your backyard.

String lights, lanterns, candles, or solar-powered pathway lights add warmth and charm while helping guests stay comfortable well into the evening. Pair the lighting with a playlist of relaxed summer favorites, and you’ve instantly created an inviting atmosphere.

Make It Family-Friendly

If children are attending, set aside a few outdoor games to keep them entertained. Lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, bubbles, or a simple scavenger hunt can keep everyone engaged while adults enjoy conversation.

The more relaxed the kids are, the more relaxed the adults can be too.

Stay Cool

Summer entertaining is much more enjoyable when guests have a place to cool off.

Offer plenty of cold beverages, provide shaded seating whenever possible, and keep a cooler stocked with water and sparkling drinks. A few portable fans or misting devices can make a surprising difference during especially warm afternoons.

Celebrate Your Outdoor Space

One of the greatest joys of homeownership is having a place to gather with the people who matter most. Whether it’s a spacious backyard, a cozy patio, or a small deck with a grill, every outdoor space has the potential to become the backdrop for unforgettable summer moments.

It’s not about having the biggest yard or the fanciest setup—it’s about creating an environment where people feel welcome and comfortable.

Enjoy the Moment

As hosts, it’s easy to spend the entire gathering worrying about food, drinks, or cleanup. Try to prepare as much as possible ahead of time so you can actually enjoy your guests.

After all, the laughter around the table, conversations under the stars, and shared meals are what people remember most—not whether every detail was perfect.

Make This Summer One to Remember

Summer entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable. With a simple menu, comfortable seating, thoughtful lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere, your home can become everyone’s favorite gathering place.

So fire up the grill, invite the neighbors, gather your friends and family, and enjoy everything this season has to offer. Sometimes the best memories are made right in your own backyard.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Summer Begins – Officially!

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Sun With Open Arms And Sunglasses stock illustration

Finally, it’s officially summer; however, our summer temps are lagging and won’t return to full force until next week.  In the meantime, this last weekend of June continues to bring us summer favorite events and the culmination of Pride Month!  Shall we get started?

Celebrate Pride at Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood this Saturday for an unforgettable day of free events featuring a vibrant lineup of live music, captivating performances from local LGBTQIA+ artists, plenty of dancing, educational programs, as well as the Community Pride Market featuring local LGBTQIA+ small businesses.  It’s a celebration for a colorful summer experience filled with Pride and community!

Celebrate Pride at OUT at Gallagher Way (3637 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood this Saturday for their free, family-friendly all-day event featuring balloon artists, face painters, bracelet-making, kids’ karaoke, lawn games, Voguing classes, and giveaways.  Plus, enjoy performances by the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus and Rock & Roll Playhouse!

Join thousands of Chicagoans lining the streets of the Lakeview neighborhood for the 55th annual Chicago Pride Parade this Sunday in culmination of Pride Month.  Over 150 entrants from local communities, organizations, and businesses along with dazzling floats, marching bands, and performers will be marching in the parade with this year’s theme being “Free to Be Proud.”  The parade kicks-off promptly at 11:00 a.m. from West Sheridan Road and Broadway Avenue; however, the most popular spot to view the parade is along the Northalsted corridor between Belmont Avenue and Addison Street.  It’s Chicago’s way of celebrating love, diversity, equality, and community!

Also taking place this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) is the Chicago Taco & Tequila Fest at Wrightwood Park (2555 N. Ashland Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  Enjoy a day filled with bold flavors from 13 Chicagoland restaurants along with an optional eight curated tequila samples and/or margarita flight, and live music providing non-stop festive vibes.  In addition, there’s a kid’s area for families to enjoy as well.  It’s a full-on summer celebration not to be missed!

After a one-year hiatus, the Logan Square Arts Festival is celebrating their neighborhood’s diversity and spirit this Saturday and Sunday around the historic Illinois Centennial Monument at Logan Boulevard and Milwaukee Avenue.  Of course, this year’s festival is back better and bigger than before with two stages of live music featuring 38 musical acts, art installations, double the local vendor markets, food, and drinks!

From June through September, Movies in the Parks return with over 90 movies in various parks across Chicago as part of the Chicago Park District’s annual program.  These free outdoor film screenings are held under the stars and typically begin at 8:45 p.m., or dusk, each evening.  So, bring some chairs or blankets, your favorite movie munchies, and enjoy an evening under the stars watching a free movie!  This Saturday’s movies are: The Princess and the Frog at Carver (George Washington) Park (939 E. 132nd St.) in the Altgeld Gardens neighborhood; and School of Rock at Burnham (Daniel) Park (1200-5700 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Dr.) which sits on Chicago’s Lakefront just south of Grant Park.

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: On the beach, in the parks…Working Out the ‘Chicago Way’

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Yoga pose at a sandy beach stock photo

Now that it’s officially summer, it’s time to enjoy the warm weather and do your workouts under the sun!! And thanks to Chicago Park District, they’re free!! 

Millennium Park Summer Workouts, 201 E. Randolph Street: Work out starting this Saturday, June 27th  from 8am-11:45 pm, on the Great Lawn and Wrigley Square in Millennium Park  with a series of 45-minute workouts including Pilates, Yoga, Cardio Kickboxing and Zumba®. Participants are asked to bring their own workout mat. For a complete list of dates, click here. 

For those who prefer an evening workout, Pier Fitness at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue:

Get fit and have fun this summer with free fitness sessions every Tuesday night at Navy Pier. Designed for all levels, kick things off with Rush Hour Cardio from 6pm-7pm with Diane, a fun, full-body workout combining rhythmic movement, repetition, and high-energy vibes inspired by Zumba and Jazzercise. Then, unwind with Sunset Yoga from 7:30pm-8:30pm with Robert, a Vinyasa + Yin–based practice that builds strength, improves balance, and helps reset both mind and body. Classes run through September 1st. For more information, click here. 

Northwestern Medicine Wellness Way is  a 1.5 mile fitness trail around Navy Pier.  You can enjoy lakefront views as you exercise! Start at the gateway of the Pier and follow the marked route along the docks. You will find distance checkpoints, stretching areas, and QR codes at the end of the Pier for wellness tips provided by Northwestern Medicine. And…hydration stations are set up throughout the trail.  For more information, click here. 

The Green at 320, 320 S. Canal Street: This urban park hosts weekly outdoor yoga sculpt, Pilates, boot camps, and a Wednesday Run Club at the South end of the lawn. Note: Look for  the Fitness Flag. 

Core & More with Mary! Every Wednesday from 8am- 8:45am, this class is designed to tighten your core and increase flexibility.  It’s open to all levels – from beginner to experts. Yoga mats, water, and a great workout are always provided. Morning Yoga with Jennifer Frankel, from 8am- 8:45am every Thursday, combines breath-synchronized movements, static poses, and cardio to help you build endurance, flexibility, and muscle tone. The class is open to all levels – from beginner to experts. Yoga mats, water, and a great workout are always provided. 

Note: For both classes, register in advance to secure your spot. Walk-ups are welcome, but contingent upon availability. 

In the event of a weather-related cancellation, follow their Instagram and Facebook for the most up to date event information. For more information and registration, click here. 

The Bloomingdale Trail at The 606, open from 6am-11pm daily. The 2.7-mile elevated park and trail in Chicago, built on a former railroad line, connecting the Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park neighborhoods. Officially the Bloomingdale Trail, it’s a popular spot for walking, running, and biking, and you can access the trail via 12 different entry points along its route.

It serves as both a recreational space and an alternative transportation corridor, with numerous access points and amenities like benches, bike parking, and water fountains. The trail runs west to east along the 1800-block of W. Bloomingdale Avenue, stretching between Ashland Avenue (1600 W) and Ridgeway Avenue (3750 W). 

The Rollin’ Recreation Activity Van  at John Walsh Park, 1722 N. Ashland Avenue, offers fun for the whole family at a number of parks throughout the summer through sports, games, and fitness activities from Wednesday, June 24, at 4:30pm – July 31, at 5:30pm. No registration required, just come out and have fun!  Click here for more information. 

Here’s to a healthy, active summer!

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Celebrating ‘Christmas in July’ at the Marshall Field’s Walnut Room

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Elegant table decoration for a christmas dinner stock photo

July in Chicago means hot, sticky weather. What better way to beat the heat than to celebrate a wintry holiday? The legendary Marshall Field’s Walnut Room, located on  Macy’s 7th floor, 111 N. State Street, has you covered! 

From July 1-31, the sixth annual Christmas in July brings back the limited Christmas menu that has held Chicagoans and the world captive since the early 1900’s. While the iconic 45-foot “Great Tree” won’t be there, a wintry oasis of smaller trees, and holiday fairy appearances create a festive atmosphere…enough to tide you over til December!

Walnut Room History 

Did you know…that at one time, women couldn’t eat in restaurants without an escort? Enter entrepreneur Marshall Field. Early in the 20th century, a woman was shopping in the Millinery  Department of his store and said she was hungry. With the lack of restaurants serving women, a sales associate named Mrs. Hering shared her homemade chicken pot pie. The gesture became incredibly popular, prompting Marshall Field to open a modest tea room. In 1907, due to the tea room’s massive success, a larger space called the South Tea Room opened in the newly built Marshall Field’s building. By 1937, the space was officially renamed The Walnut Room after its distinctive Circassian walnut paneling and Austrian crystal chandeliers. Mrs. Hering’s original chicken pot pie recipe remains on the menu today.

On the Menu 

Start your holiday adventure in the ala carte menu  with a Poinsettia, a refreshing mix of cranberry juice and sparkling wine.  Or, a  Frango Irish Coffee, served hot or iced, with Frango Mint Liqueur, Bailey’s Irish Cream,  Starbucks coffee, and whipped cream. 

You haven’t lived fully until you’ve tried their Lobster Bisque, creamy, with a bold splash of sherry and filled with small pieces of tender lobster meat. 

 Follow that with your choice of entrée. Their Cranberry Citrus Chicken Salad Sandwich is a sandwich for all seasons, with a mix of chicken, oranges, dried cranberries, onions, celery, Dijon mayonnaise, butter lettuce and tomato, served on a buttery croissant. It’s accompanied by a dill pickle and seasoned fries. 

Or, you can go traditional Christmas fare with a Cider Glazed Slow Roasted Breast of Turkey, with whipped potatoes, turkey gravy, sautéed vegetables, and cranberry citrus chutney (a must!) 

A note: Being strange and experimental, I’ve mixed the chutney and whipped potatoes together on previous visits. I liked it, but I like odd flavors competing with each other for attention, and the buttery whipped potatoes and citrusy chutney were certainly that!  That said, the turkey gravy certainly works with the potatoes and provides the most traditional of flavors. 

There’s no messing with dessert at Marshall Field’s Walnut Room. Their traditional Holiday Yule Log isfestiveenough, with layers of vanilla cake rolled with chocolate and covered with bitter chocolate icing. 

When I was a kid, my Mom took us to the Walnut Room for our holiday meal as a reward for good grades in the fall. What we looked forward to most was their Build Your Own Snowman! DuringChristmas in July, you can recapture those days with vanilla ice cream, a marshmallow, strawberry licorice, and chocolate chips. 

Another favorite Christmas memory was baking cookies with my grandmother, who was stellar at everything from Snickerdoodles to holiday thumbprint cookies made to look like little wreaths. Here, you can recreate those days with their Cookie Exchange Platter, also available on their dessert menu. 

A bonus for diners

You can make reservations for the fall and winter while you’re there! Regular holiday reservations begin October 1st, and usually sell out quickly!

The Marshall Field’s Walnut Room is open Sunday- Tuesday from 11am-3pm, and Wednesday -Saturday from 11am-7pm. For reservations,click on the following link: https://www.opentable.com/restaurant/profile/74479?ref=android-share&refid=123

Happy Holidays!! Stay cool. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 coping strategies to help regulate emotions

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Serene young woman practicing breathing exercises while sitting in lotus position on comfortable sofa at home

There is a life skill that we should all know, but sadly few of us do: self-soothing. It slows down emotional reactions and helps you avoid impulsive decisions. It becomes even more important as we get older because our lives are busier and more stressful. Here are a few ways to cope with stress and regulate your emotions:  

Pause and acknowledge your stress. Place your hand on your stomach and think: ‘I’m feeling stressed out’. This thought and touch can make you feel more grounded. 

Use a calming object or sense. Sometimes something physical or tangible can distract you from an intense emotion. Using a fidget toy to regulate. Perhaps the lovely smell of candles or essential oils. You can even visualize a calming place or focus on your breathing. 

Change what you’re looking at. Move your head to the right and slowly move your head up and down. Repeat on the left side. This reminds us that there’s no emergency, we are safe. This is based on research on bilateral eye movements. It activates more logical parts of your brain. It tamps down the threat response. 

Try pressure to ground yourself. Press your feet firmly onto the floor and feel the support. Notice how the floor feels, focus on the bottom of your feet then the top. You can also ground by pressing the palms of your hands together and feel the sensation. Increase and decrease the pressure. This helps shift focus again to our body and puts you into a calmer space. 

Bilateral stimulation. This technique is used in trauma therapies. Cross your arms and place your hands on the opposite shoulder. Slowly tap right then left, six times. Take a long deep breath then repeat. (If you’re in public, just tap your toes left and right). 

Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Thought challenging skills can tamp down emotions by looking at the facts and finding better ways to think about a situation. Maybe you’re on a first date or going to a business meeting. Your mind immediately goes to, “I’m going to mess this up”. Stop and think, what evidence supports that? In time you will reframe with something more helpful like, “I’ve been here before and I know how to handle it”. It’s the way to learn how to stop and think before you react!

Do you have any tried and true ways you self-soothe?

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

7 Outdated Home Trends That Are Making a Comeback

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Large luxury modern bright interiors Living room mockup illustration 3D rendering image stock photo

Home design trends are constantly evolving, and what was considered outdated just a few years ago is often finding new life in today’s homes. The difference? Modern homeowners are putting fresh spins on classic styles, blending nostalgia with contemporary functionality.

Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply looking for inspiration, these once-forgotten trends are making a surprising comeback.

1. Wood Paneling

For decades, dark wood paneling was associated with dated basements and family rooms. Today, however, designers are embracing wood walls again—but with a modern approach.

Lighter wood tones, vertical slat designs, and natural finishes add warmth, texture, and character to living spaces. Accent walls featuring wood details can make a home feel both cozy and sophisticated.

Why buyers like it: Natural materials create a welcoming atmosphere and add visual interest without overwhelming a room.

2. Wallpaper

Wallpaper was once considered a decorating mistake from the past, but it’s now one of the hottest design trends.

Modern wallpaper features bold patterns, textured finishes, and peel-and-stick options that make updating a space easier than ever. Homeowners are using wallpaper to create statement walls in dining rooms, powder rooms, and home offices.

Why buyers like it: Thoughtfully chosen wallpaper can add personality and make a space memorable.

3. Formal Dining Rooms

Open-concept living dominated home design for years, leading many homeowners to eliminate formal dining spaces altogether. Recently, however, dedicated dining rooms have started to regain popularity.

As more families entertain at home and work remotely, homeowners are appreciating separate spaces that provide flexibility and structure.

Why buyers like it: A dedicated dining room can serve multiple purposes, from hosting gatherings to functioning as a workspace or study area.

4. Colorful Kitchens

For years, all-white kitchens ruled the market. While white kitchens remain popular, homeowners are increasingly embracing color.

Deep blues, forest greens, warm grays, and even black cabinetry are becoming common choices. These richer tones add character while maintaining a timeless feel when paired with quality materials and finishes.

Why buyers like it: Color can help a kitchen stand out while still feeling elegant and modern.

5. Terrazzo Surfaces

Terrazzo was a staple of mid-century design before falling out of favor. Now it’s making a strong comeback in countertops, flooring, backsplashes, and even decorative accessories.

Modern terrazzo features updated color palettes and larger aggregate patterns that create a stylish, contemporary look.

Why buyers like it: Terrazzo is durable, unique, and offers visual texture without appearing overly trendy.

6. Curved Furniture and Architectural Details

For years, sharp lines and minimalist designs dominated interiors. Today’s homeowners are softening spaces with curved furniture, rounded archways, and organic shapes.

Curved sofas, arched doorways, and rounded mirrors help create a more relaxed and inviting environment.

Why buyers like it: Soft lines add comfort and warmth while helping rooms feel more approachable.

7. Vintage and Antique Pieces

Mass-produced furniture is giving way to more personalized interiors. Many homeowners are incorporating vintage furniture, antique décor, and heirloom pieces into modern spaces.

Mixing old and new elements creates character and helps homes feel curated rather than cookie-cutter.

Why buyers like it: Unique pieces add charm and authenticity that can’t be replicated with brand-new furnishings alone.

Final Thoughts

Design trends often come full circle. While these styles may have once been considered outdated, today’s versions feel fresh, functional, and relevant. The key is balance—combining classic elements with modern updates to create spaces that appeal to both current homeowners and future buyers.

If you’re considering updates before selling your home, focusing on timeless improvements and thoughtful design choices can help maximize appeal and showcase your property’s potential.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – All About Dad This Father’s Day Weekend!

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Blue coffee mug with number one dad text for fathers day celebration stock illustration

As usual, Chicago is offering a wide variety of Father’s Day events this weekend that suit dads of many different interests.  So, I’ve selected a few of the many events taking place that your Dad, you and the rest of the family can enjoy!

One of the most popular and longest Father’s Day traditions is being held this Sunday (3 p.m.-6 p.m.) with the 37th annual Real Men Cook at The Quarry Event Center (2423 E. 75th St.) in the South Shore neighborhood.  This celebration of fatherhood brings together home cooks, backyard BBQ masters, professional chefs, and more serving over 300 sample-sized portions of delicious food for 3 hours.  Besides the food, there’s also live entertainment featuring music, men’s health and family wellness activities, and local Black history educational programs.  In addition, the proceeds will support Real Men Charities’ year-round programs!

Join the LGBTQ+ community as they celebrate Chicago Pride Month at their annual two-day street festival Chicago Pride Fest this weekend (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) at 800 West Waveland Avenue in the Northalsted neighborhood.  Three stages of live music along with the best of Chicago drag performances, dance exhibitions, the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers, and a Youth Pride Space for teens will be featured.  Plus, browse arts & crafts from over 150 vendors, get a bite to eat at the many food vendors, and most importantly, don’t miss the Proud Pet Parade at Noon on Sunday.  It’s a high-energy community celebration for all!

Every Father’s Day weekend, the West Loop’s Restaurant Row is converted into a huge outdoor festival, and this year is no different.  The Taste of Randolph is this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) at 900 West Randolph Street between Peoria Street and Racine Avenue.  This year’s Taste features some of the world’s best cuisine and beverage offerings from Chicago’s best-known restaurants as well as enjoying live entertainment from Chicago favorites to national headliners.  In addition, the Wonder Lane Kids’ Zone is bigger, better, and built for everyone with numerous activities for the kids and a laid-back lounge for the parents to relax and recharge.  You don’t want to miss this event!

Hosting one of the biggest art fairs of the summer, Grant Park’s Butler Field (100 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the Loop is the place to be for the 68th annual Gold Coast Art Fair this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.).  This prestigious art fair will feature more than 200 juried artists from across the country featuring a diverse range of original works in a variety of mediums.  The Fair also offers an exciting atmosphere of live music; a variety of food, beer, wine, and sangria at three oases; Paint and Sip classes; caricatures; henna art; and more.  There’s even a Kid’s Art Zone packed with fun activities that include face painting, sand art, giant bubbles, and more.  And a portion of each ticket sale benefits the non-profit organization WINGS Program, Inc.!

One of the most iconic traditions in Chinese culture brings the 2026 Dragon Boat Race to the Ping Tom Memorial Park (1700 S. Wentworth Ave.) in Chinatown this Saturday (9 a.m.-5 p.m.).  This year’s race will have 33 teams from across the region competing on the Chicago River in beautifully decorated dragon boats.  Afterwards, explore Chinatown and enjoy a traditional Chinese meal at the many restaurants!

Happy Father’s Day to All the #1 Dads!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: “Yes, We Can!” Previewing the new Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park

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Obama Presidential Library - Chicago stock photo

“You are America. Unconstrained by habit and convention. Unencumbered by what is, ready to seize what ought to be…”

President Barack Obama, 2015

Thursday, June 18 is a day of celebration in Jackson Park as the Obama Presidential Center officially opens its doors at 6001 S. Stony Island Avenue.

The nation’s first African American President and First Lady have a joyous, all-day celebration planned for its opening (stream it live!) today, with performances from Bruce Springsteen to Christina Aguilera to John Legend to Chicago native Common, but as its website says, the eight-story structure is a world-class museum and public gathering space that showcases the South Side of Chicago to the world. The Grand Opening Ceremony Official Watch Party viewing starts at 11am.

The museum officially opens to the public on Friday, June 19, i.e. ‘Juneteenth.’

Though I have limited experience in touring presidential libraries (confined to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield), I feel pretty certain that this is the only presidential center in the country that has a regulation-size basketball court AND a branch of the Chicago Public Library in its vast, 19.3 acre space. 

As its mission states, the Center hopes “to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.” The Obama Presidential Center is a place where inspiration and possibility can live. 

Spaces for Reflection, with Intention 

Each space was designed with intention…to reflect and move forward with greater understanding. With the campus grounds (not the Museum) open from 6am-9pm, you can step onto the John Lewis Plaza for a moment of reflection on the country’s struggle for civil rights.  

During business hours, you can take a moment to reflect on the city of Chicago’s quest for peace in the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium. Or, head to the top of the Museum and take in stunning views of the West and South Sides of Chicago in The Sky Room. Draw your own inspiration from the replica of President Obama’s Oval Office. 

As you explore the campus, you’ll come across over 25 commissioned art installations that encourage visitors to open their imaginations and reflect on their ability to bring change home. Nearly all of the pieces are outside or in areas that are free to the public during operating hours. 

The inside is also home to the Forum, which includes collaborative and creative spaces, including the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, and a Media Suite. The Forum is open daily from 9am– 9 pm.

The  exhibits, according to an architectural firm blogsite, explore the fullness of the American story—from the promise of America’s founding documents to the social movements that challenged us to live up to them. Visitors learn about the volunteers who worked on the historic campaign and explore the eight years of progress, setback, and hope that followed. 

Open to the Community 

Community resources include a winter garden, an auditorium, a restaurant, recording studios, meeting rooms and a 5,000-square-foot Chicago Public Library branch. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors at the Women’s Garden or the Wetland Walk, and the Great Lawn. Take the kids to the ADA-accessible playground. Or, grab a book at the Library. Most importantly, more than half of the space in the Obama Center will be free and open to the public.

According to MSNow, the former president said a display of some of the letters he received from Americans during his eight years in the White House, which he estimated included as many as “40,000 pieces of correspondence” every day, is his favorite exhibit. 

Play Ball!

President Obama is likely the only former President to include a full-size basketball court in his presidential center.

Home Court is a 60,000-square-foot athletic and events space designed to strengthen the entire community and motivate people of all ages. It offers programs inspired by President Obama’s belief in the power of sports, mentorship, and connection. These expansive programs focus on well being and health, life and leadership skills, career exploration, and relationship building.

Free Days!

Illinois residents receive FREE General Admission to the Presidential Center Museum every Tuesday from 10am– 5 pm!. To reserve tickets for Illinois Free Days, select a Tuesday time slot, add Illinois Resident General Admission tickets to your cart,  and provide your Illinois zip code during checkout. Check fall dates for best availability.

Museum Admission includes access to all four levels of the Museum, the Oval Office, and the Sky Room. Tickets are available on a timed-entry basis for opening through November 30. Check weekdays and fall dates for best availability. For more information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: South Loop’s Moody Tongue offers Michelin-starred brews and tasting menus

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Group Dining Experience at a Modern Restaurant with Engaged Conversations and Service stock photo

Would you believe…Orange Blossom Belgian Blonde Beer? Juiced Lychee IPA? Caramelized Chocolate Churro Porter? It’s all there for you at the South Loop’s Moody Tongue, the world’s first Michelin-starred brewery, which is also home to The Dining Room, an intimate 28-seat fine dining restaurant.

The Dining Room at Moody Tongue presents an intimate fine dining experience showcasing a 10+ course tasting menu with curated beer pairings.

Founded in 2014 in Chicago by cousins Jared Rouben and Jeremy Cohn, the two young brewmasters built the brewery on the philosophy of culinary brewing, appealing to those with a discerning palate – or as they describe, a “moody tongue.”

Today, it’s a  lively neighborhood restaurant and bar, featuring an a la carte dinner menu and shareable plates alongside a selection of martinis, wines, and a rotating seasonal list of 16 draft Moody Tongue beers.

Their current Tasting Menu starts with Kampachi made with avocado, sesame, and daidai (Asian bitter orange), followed by Chawanmushi (savory Japanese steamed egg custard) made with a colorful blend ofporcini, crab, and marigold. A Smoked Potato follows, with caramelle, yeast beurre blanc, and trout roe. Hokkaido Scallop combines a prawn with soy and kumquat. Their Bread & Cheese speaks to Bavarian influences, featuring a pretzel with the hard French cheese mimolette. The fish course is a Barramundi (aka, Asian sea bass) with turnip, spinach, and jeow som (a Laotian spicy, sour dipping sauce.) Stone Axe Australian Wagyu is served with rutabaga, asparagus and black garlic. Cucumber has an unusual mix of granola and ice wine vinegar. Finally, Rhubarb serves as a tasty dessert with lemon, shortbread, and yuzu. 

Many others agree with the Michelin-star.

“First time in Chicago – this was an incredible experience,” said one Google reviewer. “Don’s service and attention to detail was incredibly thoughtful and consistent. The menu and beer pairing complemented extremely well. I could not have asked for a better experience. I will be back. Thank you Don, thank you to the service staff, and thank you Moody Tongue Chicago!”

Moody Tongue is located at 2515 S. Wabash Avenue. Seatings are offered at 6:30pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays and 6pm and 8:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Advance reservations are required, and can be made by clicking here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago 

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – The do’s and don’ts for a perfect pasta

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Spaghetti alla puttanesca - italian pasta dish with tomatoes, black olives, capers, anchovies and basi stock photo

If you were blessed to have an Italian Nonna, you probably know all the right things to do when making pasta. But those of us that don’t are most likely doing it all wrong! Here are some of the most common mistakes and some of the tried and true methods for cooking pasta. 

Don’ts

Keeping the pasta separate from the sauce. The entire philosophy of Italian pasta is about the union of pasta and sauce into one dish! The best thing to do is to finish cooking the pasta in the sauce. Remove pasta when it’s just short of all dente and add directly to the sauce. The pasta will absorb the sauce rather than just coating it. Save some of that starchy pasta water to thin out the sauce. It adds body to the sauce too. 

Adding oil to the cooking water. People think it keeps the pasta from sticking but all it does is float on the top of the water! Then when you drain the pasta it coats it and prevents the sauce from adhering properly. To prevent sticking, use high-quality pasta. It’s definitely worth the extra money. The difference in texture is amazing. 

Rinsing the pasta after cooking. This also removes flavor by stripping the essential starches from the surface of the pasta. It’s said to keep pasta from clumping but all it does is cool the pasta and the sauce just slides right off! Proper cooking solves this problem. 

Breaking spaghetti. This so-called “hack”, said to keep pasta from sticking, can really ruin the whole experience of eating spaghetti. Long length spaghetti noodles are best for twirling sauce and capturing bits of meat and veggies in a single forkful, creating the perfect bite. Remember: every time you break your spaghetti, a Nonna cries!

Do’s

Tasting pasta is the only true test for doneness. Throwing it at the wall and waiting for it to stick is just silly. A sticky noodle is probably overcooked and has excess starch. Start checking two minutes before the box directions say it’s done. There should be a tiny white dot of resistance in the middle. Taste early, taste often and trust your palate before the wall. 

Always use a big enough pot and more water than you think. You need a gallon of water for every pound of pasta. Salt the water with mineral rich sea salt. This is your only chance to season the pasta. No amount of sauce will make up for flat under-salted pasta. Make sure the water is at a full rolling boil and keep the heat as high as possible to keep pasta from sticking. 

Stir, stir, stir! Stirring constantly during the first few minutes of cooking will keep strands separate also. 

Save some of the starch rich cooking water before draining. This is a great emulsifier that binds your sauce to the pasta and gives them a glossy, restaurant-quality finish. It’s good for thinning the sauce out too or even building a sauce with olive oil. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago