Chicago is wrapping-up yet another Pride Month celebration this last weekend of June; however, that’s not all that’s happening around here this weekend. Check it out!

Navy Pier’s annual Navy Pier Pride takes place on Saturday (11 a.m.-11 p.m.) at 600 E. Grand Avenue in the Streeterville neighborhood.  This free day-long celebration will include live music, dancing, educational programs, performances from local LGBTQ+ artists, a drag queen story time, and more.  This year’s notable acts include the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, the Lakeside Pride Marching Band, Ariana DJ, and more.  Plus, the Pier’s signature Aon summer fireworks will be lighting up the sky with a 10-minute display at 10:15 p.m. which is a perfect way to close out this celebration.  So join us as we celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and support for our LGBTQ+ community!

The 53^rd annual Chicago Pride Parade will step off on Sunday (11 a.m.) from Sheridan Road and Broadway Street (3900 N. Broadway St.) in the Lakeview neighborhood then head south via Halsted Street ending at Cannon Drive in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  This year, 150 contingents will march under the theme “Pride is Power.”  Since this parade typically attracts over one million attendees, it’s wise to stake out the best spot along the route early!

Enjoy beer, wine, or piña coladas; choose from food trucks or festival snacks; and become living art in the face painting tent at this year’s Millennium Art Festival this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Michigan Avenue and Lake Street in The Loop.  This top-ranked show features 120 juried artists from near and far offering an array of original artwork at all price points along with a live music stage, a Kid Friendly Art Tent, and Live Art Demo to interact with the artists.  There’s nothing like art amongst the city’s skyscrapers!

The Illinois Centennial Monument located at 3200 W. Logan Boulevard in the Logan Square neighborhood is the place to be for this year’s annual Logan Square Arts Festival this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.).  Once again, this beloved community fest features artists of varying disciplines, neighborhood restaurants, and locally produced beer and cocktails while raising money for the neighborhood’s non-profits.  Come join this celebration of local art, food, beer, and music!

As you know, summertime is festival time here in Chicago.  That’s why SAUCED Summer Night Market will be returning to the 2^nd floor of the WNDR Museum at 1130 N. Monroe Street in the West Loop this Saturday (5 p.m.-10 p.m.).  This roving night market is dedicated to emerging chefs, artists, and artisans with over 50 local vendors selling handmade goods, vintage clothing, jewelry, prints, and more treasures.  It’s an enjoyable evening of eating, drinking, and shopping all set to tunes by DJ Johnny Walker!

Let’s not forget our furry family members!  Come join Midwest Coast Brewing Company (our favorite dog-friendly brewery) on Sunday (12 p.m.-5 p.m.) at 2137 W. Walnut Street on the Near West Side for their Dog-Friendly Market.  Enjoy an afternoon of beers, dogs, and shopping from vendors specializing in dog-friendly goods.  Plus, your furry baby will get to enjoy a complimentary pup cake!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

During Pride Month in June, many restaurants throughout the city of Chicago are stepping up to support the LGBTQ+ community with rainbow-themed beverages, desserts, and other delights. Many offer these throughout the month in support of nonprofits providing vital community services.

Take, for example, Lakeview’s Wake ‘n Bacon, which is donating a portion of the proceeds from every sale of its rainbow-hued Halo Halo Chia Chia Pudding to Howard Brown Health’s Broadway Youth Center during Chicago’s annual Pride Parade on  Sunday, June 30.

The self-proclaimed “Most Instagrammable restaurant in Chicago” provides brunch and dinner crowds with creatively displayed Asian and Latin-influenced comfort food in a airy, playful, family-friendly environment. 

Well worth the $15 price tag and donation to a good cause is the Halo Halo Chia Chia, a healthy and flavorful chia pudding topped with seasonal fresh fruits, green coconut jelly, and sprinkled with Fruity Pebbles (the cereal, that is.)

Pair the pudding with a creative coffee concoction like their house specialty, the Purple Haze, a blend ofUbe coconut milk, mixed with Brewpoint’s Stargazer coffee and your choice of whole milk or oat milk. 

Brunch favorites offer a variety of sweet and savory combinations, including The Phatty, a flour tortilla rolled with crispy potatoes, scrambled eggs, black beans, rice, cheddar cheese, maple peppercorn bacon, and fresh salsa verde, served with tater tots. Their Ube Flap Jack Stack is an ube pancake with tater tot bits, topped with your choice of bacon, sunny-side up eggs, and  cheddar cheese, accompanied by spiced maple syrup, and garnished with pickled peppers and green onions. The #BAEgoal is a bagel sandwich filled with an over easy eggs, lemon herb cream cheese, tomato & with your choice of house bacon or Spam, served with tater tots. Cheez & Chong is a blend of provolone, pepper jack, and cheddar cheeses, house-made bacon jam with caramelized onions, chipotle mayo and grilled onions on brioche bread. 

Sweet sensations include a memorable Turtle Waffle, which is their special Hong Kong-style fluffy bubble waffle, topped with house-made Mexican chocolate sauce, house made caramel, candied pecans, and whipped cream. Maui WOWie is a sandwich of Hawaiian bread, Spam, Tajin-spiced grilled pineapples, chipotle mayo, and scrambled eggs. Their Big Bird is a fried chicken thigh, glazed in a sweet & tangy ‘crack’ sauce (should we ask?) topped with fresh sriracha slaw and mustard pickles on a brioche bun. 

All orders come with tater tots, unless otherwise specified, and can be prepared to fit vegan and vegetarian specifications.

Their dinner menu, served weekends, include such whimsical starters as their Wham Bam Thank You Spam– spiced battered spam fries served with house made chipotle mayo dip, and their Thai Me Down Salad of colorful red pepper, red and green cabbage, topped with fried wontons and Thai peanut salad dressing. 

Entrees include their Bombazo Pambazo, a Mexican-style sandwich filled with chorizo, potatoes, avocado, sour cream, pineapple pickled red onions, which is served on bolillo bread and brushed with guajillo salsa and griddled. Their Zen Bowl is teriyaki tofu, roasted cabbage, caramelized onions, red peppers, and carrots, sprinkled with white sesame seeds and served on a bed of fragrant garlic rice. Holy Al Pastor Tacos have grilled chicken thighs marinated in achiote, garlic, and pineapple, topped with roasted pineapple salsa, onion and cilantro, and served in corn tortillas. 

Google reviewers were ecstatic.

 “This place is such a cool café!” wrote one reviewer. “The chia seed pudding I had was so good its been 2 weeks since I went and I’m deadass still thinking about it, tbh I was wary at first because the fruity pebbles in it threw me off but it adds literally the perfect crunch to the dish! If you’re an ube lover the purple haze drink is to die for I loved it sm! They also have a digital mirror that takes customizable pictures for either just you or friends too!”

“Efficient, kind staff,” wrote another. “Order at the table on an app which makes it really easy for groups to order their own food. Recommend public transport to get here as parking is tough in the area. Solid food and great drinks!”

Wake n’Bacon is located at 420 W. Belmont Avenue. Open seven days a week, ‘Everyday Brunch’ is served 8am – 4pm, and ‘Weekend Dinners’ from Fridays-Sundays are served 4pm-9pm. Reservations are required, whether it’s for one or 14 people. For more information, click here.

Happy Pride Month, all!! 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Becoming a new homeowner is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a unique set of responsibilities and challenges. To set yourself up for success in homeownership, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of key aspects such as financial planning, home maintenance, insurance, and community engagement. In this article, we will explore the secrets to success that every new homeowner needs to know, providing valuable tips and insights to help you navigate this important phase of your life with confidence and ease.

Financial Planning for Homeownership

Setting a Realistic Budget

When it comes to buying a home, make sure your budget is as realistic as your dream of having a pet dragon. Consider all costs, from down payments to closing fees, so you don’t end up eating ramen noodles for the rest of your life.

Understanding Mortgage Options

Mortgages are like choosing toppings on a pizza – there are many options, and you want to pick the one that fits your tastes and budget. Fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, VA – explore your choices like a buffet before settling on the one that won’t give you indigestion.

Essential Home Maintenance and Repairs

Creating a Home Maintenance Schedule

Just like scheduling dentist appointments, create a regular home maintenance schedule to keep your property in tip-top shape. It’s not glamorous, but it beats the alternative of your roof deciding it’s had enough one stormy night.

Identifying and Addressing Common Repair Issues

From leaky faucets to creaky floors, home repairs are as inevitable as a rainy day during a picnic. Learn the basics of DIY fixes or befriend a good handyman – your home will thank you with fewer surprises.

Understanding Home Insurance and Warranties

Choosing the Right Home Insurance Coverage

Home insurance is like a safety net for your humble abode. Pick a coverage that suits your needs, because let’s face it, you don’t want to be stuck with a leaky roof and an insurance policy full of holes.

Utilizing Home Warranties for Protection

Home warranties are like having a superhero on call for your appliances and systems. When your trusty fridge decides to turn into a sauna, a good home warranty can swoop in for the rescue. Just make sure to read the fine print – even superheroes have their limits.

Maximizing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Implementing Energy-Saving Practices

Saving energy is not just good for the planet, it’s also a savvy way to cut down on your bills. From LED lightbulbs to programmable thermostats, small changes can lead to big savings – and maybe a guilt-free movie night binge.

Exploring Sustainable Home Upgrades

Thinking about upgrading your home? Why not go green? From solar panels to energy-efficient appliances, sustainable upgrades can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also increase your home’s value. Plus, who doesn’t want to be the envy of the neighborhood with their futuristic eco-friendly home?

Navigating Neighborhood Associations and Community Resources

So, you’ve finally made it to homeowner status — congrats! Now, let’s talk about navigating those neighborhood associations and tapping into community resources like a boss.

Engaging with Neighborhood Associations

Picture this: a group of neighbors gathered in someone’s living room discussing the upcoming block party or how to tackle that pesky pothole on the street. That’s your neighborhood association in action. Engaging with these groups can be a great way to stay informed about local events, issues, and even make some new friends along the way. So, don’t be shy — join in and be part of the community chatter!

Leveraging Local Community Resources for Support

From finding the best handyman in town to learning about recycling options in your area, local community resources can be a goldmine of information for new homeowners. Need a plumber recommendation? Ask your neighbors or check out the community bulletin board. Want to get involved in a local charity drive? Look up the nearest community center or local nonprofit organizations to lend a helping hand. Remember, you’re not alone in this homeowner journey — the community has your back!

As you embark on your journey as a new homeowner, remember that knowledge is your greatest asset. By implementing the tips and strategies discussed in this article, you can ensure a smooth and fulfilling homeownership experience. With careful financial planning, proactive maintenance, informed insurance decisions, and active community engagement, you are well-equipped to make the most of your new home and create a thriving living environment for years to come. Congratulations on your new home, and may these secrets to success guide you on your exciting homeownership adventure!

Beneath Chicago’s bustling downtown area, you can find a cool respite from the heat and crowds in the very heart of Chicago’s Loop. The Pedway, or Pedestrian Walkway, covers five miles under 40 blocks of Chicago’s business district, from Clark Street to Wacker Drive. 

This air-cooled maze of tunnels connects some of the city’s most famous buildings, including Macy’s, City Hall, the Chicago Cultural Center, and Millennium Park, as well as the Metra, CTA and Amtrak train systems.

The Pedway Is a safe, quick and convenient way for pedestrians to travel downtown—especially in winter, extreme heat and during times of rain or snow.

History 

According to the City of Chicago’s website, development of the Pedway began in 1951, when the City of Chicago built one-block tunnels connecting the Red Line and Blue Line subways at Washington Street and Jackson Boulevard. Since then, both public and private investment have expanded the Pedway, and the system now connects more than 50 buildings.

The smaller, but more elaborate, eastern section of the Pedway, connects the Illinois Center buildings, Hyatt Regency, Fairmont Hotel, Swissôtel, and (later) Aqua, according to Wikipedia sources, as each is linked to one end of the Metra Electric Line rail platforms. Since the Regional Transportation Authority’s removal of the turnstiles in November 2003, the two large pedway sections have been united by the platforms.

As ChicagoCurbed notes, close to 20,000 people board Metra and South Shore Line trains daily, many of them working the Pedway to shave off precious seconds from their commute from offices downtown to awaiting trains. Fans of the Batman franchise will remember this area from 2008’s ‘The Dark Knight.’

The southern reach of the main network was reduced when the 2^nd floor passage across Madison Street, linking Three First National Plaza with Chase Tower, was removed after the two buildings restricted public access to upper levels. The tunnels between Chase Tower and Two First National Plaza remain but are closed to the general public. 

Chase Tower is still connected to the Blue Line subway and to the restaurant structure in the south-west corner of the adjoining Exelon Plaza, and public access is permitted during workday hours.

In December 2013, 22 stained glass panels were installed on the wall opposite the entrance to Macy’s food court, in a collaboration with the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows; these remain in place, although the museum has closed. 

Today

A TripAdvisor member recently recounted her own experience using the Pedway. “Once every five weeks I get a haircut at the Anna George Salon that is located beneath the Illinois Center on the Chicago Pedway, somewhere around Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive… After my haircut, I enjoy strolling through the smaller but more elaborate eastern section of the Pedway, connecting the Illinois Center to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Fairmount Hotel, Swissotel and Agua. On a cold or windy or snowy or rainy day, the Pedway is a convenient option for transportation around the Loop.”

Another TripAdvisor reviewer discussed her experiences in 2019:

“Recently, I was shopping at Block 37 (108 N State Street), and ‘got acquainted’ with Chicago Pedway, taking down the escalator to the lower level, where I talked to a Security lady on duty, she couldn’t be nicer and friendlier, briefly told me about this system and how good it is for pedestrians, she also showed me the Pedway sign on the doors and said, that it was fine to take some photos there.

The tunnel walkway at this part of town is quite wide, clean, there are many shops, cafes and kiosks flanking the walkway, that was moderately busy. There are also ads there about cultural events in the city. I think though, that there could be more signs about directions to a particular destination point – that usually helps.”

How to experience today’s Pedway 

The Chicago Architecture Center provides tours of the Pedway. The tour begins at 120 N LaSalle St. at the Pedway entrance located on the south side of the building that’s separate from the lobby entrance. According to their website, this tour is not ADA-accessible. The tour route is approximately 1.5 miles and stairs are required. There are no public restrooms available on this tour. Reservations are not required. For more information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Experts agree that incorporating plenty of protein will maintain appetite and energy throughout the day, but it may also help build muscle mass and a healthier physique. It will also tame those cravings for sweets and carbohydrates. Our bodies spend more energy digesting and assimilating proteins rather than fats or carbohydrates. The macronutrients help to build and preserve lean muscle mass which in turn maintains an efficient metabolic rate. 

There are other things that are also important for healthy metabolism like exercise, sufficient sleep, and staying hydrated—but the importance of getting the right amount of protein shouldn’t be overlooked. It is essential for healthy aging, tissue repair, muscle regeneration, and hormonal balance. So, if you’re skipping breakfast you might want to reconsider and have a meal high in protein. It alters signals that control food intake regulation. It is an important strategy to help you feel full and improve the quality of your diet. It is especially important for those of us in middle age and the elderly to increase lean body mass. 

So, think about starting your day with a high protein breakfast. It does not need to be a large affair but can be as easy as some scrambled eggs with feta cheese. Roll up some deli ham with cream cheese and chives. You can do the same with turkey slices. You can even make traditional breakfast foods like waffles and pancakes using almond flour and plant-based protein powder. Add some protein to your breakfast for creating a high functioning metabolism!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago