Effortless Energy-Saving Tips for the Winter Months

Wooden model house wrapped in a blue scarf on a radiator

During the winter season, homeowners often find themselves facing increased energy bills due to the higher demand for heating and lighting. However, by implementing simple yet effective energy-saving strategies, it is possible to reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs without compromising on comfort. In this article, we will explore a range of effortless tips and techniques to help you conserve energy.

Understanding Winter Energy Consumption

Factors Affecting Energy Use in Winter

Winter means cozy sweaters, hot cocoa, and cranking up the heat. But, did you know that factors like insulation quality, thermostat settings, and even holiday lighting can impact how much energy your home guzzles?

Importance of Energy Audit

Getting an energy audit might sound as fun as watching paint dry, but it’s actually super helpful. It’s like giving your home a check-up to pinpoint where it’s losing heat and how you can stop it. Trust us, your wallet will thank you.

Optimizing Heating Systems for Efficiency

Regular Maintenance of Heating Systems

Your heating system works hard in winter. Show it some love by scheduling regular maintenance. A well-tuned system will use energy more efficiently and keep you toasty without burning a hole in your budget.

Programmable Thermostats and Setting Temperatures

Programmable thermostats are the unsung heroes of energy efficiency. Set them to lower temps when you’re out or snuggled under blankets. It’s like having a personal assistant for your home’s heating needs.

Weatherproofing Your Home

Sealing Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors are like holes in your energy bucket, letting precious warmth escape. Seal them up with weather-stripping or caulking to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.

Insulating Attics and Basements

Attics and basements may not be as exciting as cozying up by the fireplace, but they play a crucial role in your home’s energy efficiency. Beef up their insulation to prevent heat loss and make your home feel snug as a bug in a rug.

Harnessing Natural Light and Heat

Utilizing South-Facing Windows

South-facing windows are like nature’s heaters, letting in the sun’s warmth during the day. Keep them free of obstructions to maximize natural light and heat in your home.

Opening Curtains During Sunny Hours

Don’t leave your curtains closed all day! Let the sun work its magic by opening them during sunny hours. It’s a simple trick that can help you cut down on heating costs while brightening up your space.

Smart Thermostat and Energy Management

Benefits of Smart Thermostats

Say goodbye to the days of manually adjusting your thermostat! Smart thermostats not only save you the trouble of constantly fiddling with the temperature but also help you cut down on energy bills by efficiently controlling your home’s heating.

Creating Energy-Saving Schedules

With a smart thermostat, you can set up customized schedules to match your daily routine. Whether you’re snuggled up in bed or out for a winter stroll, your thermostat will automatically adjust to save energy when you need it less. It’s like having a personal assistant for your home heating needs!

Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions

Switching to LED Bulbs

Brighten up your space while dimming down your energy usage by switching to LED bulbs. These energy-efficient wonders last longer and consume less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a bright idea for both your pocket and the environment.

Using Task Lighting and Dimmer Switches

Why light up the whole room when you only need a corner to shine? Opt for task lighting in specific areas where you need it most and consider installing dimmer switches for adjustable ambiance. It’s all about lighting up your space in the most energy-efficient and practical way possible.

Maximizing Insulation and Sealing Leaks

Types of Insulation Materials

From fiberglass to foam, there’s a wide array of insulation materials to keep your home cozy and energy-efficient. Choose the right insulation for your space to prevent heat loss and reduce the strain on your heating system during the chilly winter months.

Detecting and Sealing Air Leaks

Don’t let drafts sneak in and steal your warmth! Detect and seal air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings to keep the cold out and the heat in. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure your home stays snug without overworking your heating system.

Sustainable Habits for Winter Energy Conservation

Setting Energy-Saving Habits

Turn down the heat when you’re snug under a blanket, and don’t forget to dress warmly to stay cozy without cranking up the thermostat. Small habits like these can make a big difference in reducing your energy consumption and keeping your winter bills in check.

Unplugging Electronics when not in Use

Give your electronics a well-deserved break by unplugging them when they’re not in use. Standby power may seem harmless, but it adds up over time. So, let your devices rest, and you’ll not only save energy but also extend their lifespan. It’s a win-win for both your wallet and the planet!

Bottom-line

Incorporating these energy-saving tips into your winter routine can make a significant difference in both your utility bills and environmental impact. By being mindful of your energy consumption, investing in efficiency upgrades, and adopting sustainable habits, you can create a more comfortable and eco-friendly living space. Embrace these practices to enjoy a cozy winter season while reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Brief Reprieve from ‘Ole Man Winter!

Baseball stadium, city, popcorn, beverage, hotdog, flags and ball illustration

Are you tired of winter already and looking forward to the warmer months ahead?  Well, it just so happens that this weekend will offer you a brief reprieve from ‘ole man winter with the following events!

The 38th annual Cubs Convention returns this weekend to the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers (301 E. Water St.) in the Streeterville neighborhood.  Get ready for an unforgettable winter weekend filled with fan-favorite activities which include autograph sessions and engaging panel discussions with Cubs legends, players, and coaches; exhibits such as the popular Archive Rooms; live Cubs Authentics auctions and memorabilia with items up for bid such as game-used jerseys, baseballs, bats, and more; player meet and greets; season ticket holder exclusive experiences; fan-favorites Cubs Bingo and Harry Carayoke presented by Budweiser; and much more!  Plus, new this year are Cubs Chats (learning firsthand from coaches), and Backyard Baseball (a nostalgic video game) where you will have a chance to compete against Cubs players.  In addition, the Cubs will also honor Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrating his life and legacy with a thoughtful conversation with alumni on Sunday.  Don’t miss this great opportunity to join your fellow Cubs fans at this action-packed weekend and let’s “play ball!”

The 3rd annual NA Day, Chicago’s non-alcoholic tasting event, will offer two taste sessions (12 p.m.-2 p.m. & 3 p.m.-5 p.m.) this Saturday at the Loft on Lake (1366 W. Lake St.) in the West Loop.  This alcohol-free social gathering will showcase big name brands like Ritual Zero Proof, Seedlip, and others who will be offering a wide variety of non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits along with new and upcoming vendors at this growing sector of the beverage industry.  Whether sober, sober curious, cutting back, practicing dry, or trying something new, this event is open to everyone!

The West Loop’s restaurant PB&J: Pizza Beer & Jukebox (205 N. Peoria St.) will be hosting its Beer & Pizza Fest this Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.  It’s an afternoon dedicated to the unbeatable combo of pizza and beer where attendees get to sample 15-20 beers and 5 different pizzas.  And, if you upgrade to a VIP ticket, you will have an extra hour (12 p.m.-1 p.m.) of beer tastings.  Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a pizza lover, or both, this event will not disappoint!

Stephanie Izard, one of Chicago’s top chefs, has announced she will be hosting a fundraiser, the LA Fire Relief Brunch, at her West Loop restaurant, Girl & the Goat (809 W. Randolph St.) this Sunday (11 a.m.).  She will be teaming up with an incredible lineup of all-star chefs, which include Chicago chefs and Izard herself having LA connections, who will be serving up this brunch.  Best of all, ALL proceeds will go to the CA Wildfire Disaster & Relief Fund!

Need to get your kids to release their pent-up energy from being couped up too long?  It just so happens that the Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.) in The Loop will be hosting a Family Fun Fest this Sunday (1 p.m.-4 p.m.).  It’s an open house celebration with winter play activities, music, art, and more for children of all ages and their families!  Registration is required.

This Saturday (9 a.m.-2 p.m.), the Rainbow PUSH Coalition National Headquarters (930 E. 50th St.) in the Hyde Park neighborhood will be hosting a Day of Service and Learning Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr..  This family-friendly, free event will feature a day-long resource fair, community service projects to participate in, breakout sessions, and more with Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., members of the Jackson Family, and the Rainbow PUSH coalition!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Logan Square’s Lincoln Lodge is the epicenter of Independent Comedy

Torture of two lovers in front of a red theatre curtain

Chicago is the undisputed king of comedy venues, as well as venues to learn and hone the craft of comedy. 

Whether it’s improv, stand-up, or any other form, there’s a place to practice, learn, grow, and get feedback, whether it’s The Second City, the Laugh Factory, Zanies, or IO (formerly Improv Olympics).

For the past 24 years, a small Logan Square comedy group grew up to showcase and nurture top talent at the  Lincoln Lodge Theater, 2040 N. Milwaukee Avenue. As founder Mark Gearymaintains,  they’ve earned their reputation as “The Nation’s Longest Running Independent Comedy Showcase.”

“Producing stand up comedy in a not-for-profit model had never been attempted on a professional scale before so we faced many learning challenges in our early days,” said Geary to Voyage Chicago.  “Convincing not only the community but also the stand-up comedians of the validity and advantages of a non-profit approach took a lot of time and patience.”

“(Mark) really wanted independent comedy to still have a space,” according to a 2020 feature in The Reader. The Lincoln Lodge started as an open mic night at the back of a pancake house (the now- shuttered Lincoln Restaurant,) growing into three theaters, the mainstage ‘Red’ with a capacity of 115 people, ‘Brown’ with 50 people, and ‘Blue’ that seats 40 people. 

The Lincoln Lodge is unique from other clubs. They are a non-profit comedy club with no drink minimum and comedy shows six nights a week.  Their flagship show, The Lincoln Lodge, takes place every Friday and Saturday night and features a mix of national and international headliners, local legends, and Lincoln Lodge alumni. 

The Lincoln Lodge theater and shows are for all ages, though they warn that acts may contain adult-themed material and attendance of minors is at the parents’ discretion.

Their mission is to showcase Chicago’s finest up-and-coming and touring comedians. Over the years, they’ve hosted Amy Schumer (Inside Amy Schumer), Hannibal Burress(Broad City), Fred Armisen (Saturday Night Live),T.J. Miller (Silicon Valley), Marc Maron (WTF Podcast), Janeane Garofalo (Saturday Night Live), Natasha Leggero (Last Comic Standing) and Kristen Schaal (Flight of The Conchords). 

In addition to comedy, there’s always something brewing. Take, for example, their monthly ‘Sex and the City’ trivia nights, which promises “to test your knowledge of one of the most iconic shows of all time.”

New Year, New Classes

As they say on their website, “We know everyone has a story. Our classes aren’t just about nailing the punchline; we help you unearth your one-of-a-kind comedic voice. Whether you’re a comedy newbie, simply looking to get out of the house, or are a comic stuck in a joke rut, we’ve got a class for you!”

Beginner’s Luck: Stand-Up Seminary 

The Stand-Up Seminary is a beginner’s foundation course that strives to give prospective performers the confidence and skills they need to begin a career in stand-up comedy or just have some fun trying a new experience.

The weekly 2-hour sessions of this course focus on:

  • Joke structure
  • Development of material
  • Finding an attitude and persona
  • Connecting with an audience
  • Creating a cohesive set

Fem Com is a beginners’ foundation course that strives to give women and non-binary performers the confidence and skills they need to begin a career in stand-up comedy.

Students will spend five weeks in a supportive environment while learning the fundamentals of writing and performing stand-up. 

The class requires no previous stand-up comedy or writing experience and culminates with a live performance of the five minutes of material developed in class. 

The Lincoln Lodge hosts too many events to list here!  For more information and tickets, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Dining Outdoors in Winter? It’s easy at Barcocina locations in Lakeview and West Town

Plate in the foreground on a table in a cafe in the form of an igloo

“You will feel the warmth of relaxing on a sunny beach and the coziness of a mountain cabin in the comfort of Chicago”

Barcocina website

During the pandemic, restaurant-sponsored Igloos became the go-to for families to dine together in a safe, socially distanced setting. 

The concept proved so popular that some restaurants in Chicago have continued the tradition, where families can gather in a warm, cozy, elegantly appointed Igloo and enjoy a delicious brunch or dinner together.

One place that continues the tradition to this day is Barcocina, with locations in West Town and Lakeview. Barcocina fuses traditional Mexican cuisine and various multicultural cooking techniques into modern Mexican fare and a great experience for the entire family.

Igloos offer a family-friendly experience for groups of up to 15. For $75 per person, groups can sample four brunch, dinner, and drink items from their menus. 

Choose from such items as Barcocina Guacamole, with cotija cheese and pasilla balsamic reduction, Elotes Corn Salsa, with crema,  cojita cheese, and arbol chili. Street Corn Taco Salad has “grilled & chilled” corn, kale,  bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cotija cheese, with chili powder and  santa fe dressing, served with tortilla.  Mexican Onion Soup has melted pepper jack cheese, caramelized onions, and pico de gallo,  served in a taco bowl skillet.  

Tacos are the draw at Barcocina, and the chefs have some fun with incorporating other specialties into tacos. For example, Cheeseburger Tacos are made with gound beef,  smoked cheddar, and spicy pickles, served with mango ketchup, lettuce and tomato. Chicken Tinga has a fiery Jalapeno lime slaw and pickled onions. Greek Chicken has an herb marinade, feta cheese, and cucumbers. Bang Bang Shrimp is tempura-battered, with togarashi and sweet chili sauce. Pineapple Pork is made with raised pork shoulder, crema, and charred pineapple salsa. Tuna Poke has chilies, soy, and avocado, served in a wonton shell. 

Brunch options include their own Hangover Omelette, with your choice of chorizo or cactus,  tomato and onion,  jalapeno, and chihuahua cheese, topped with crema drizzle and pico de gallo. Sunny Side Toast has egg, avocado, capers,  scallions and tomatillo. For something sweeter, their S’mores French Toast isstuffed with nutella, and topped with graham crackers and torched marshmallows. Cornbread Benedict has a poached egg, smoked short rib, and covered with a spinach hollandaise.

Barcocina Chicago – West Town is located at 1814 W. Chicago Avenue, and Barcocina Chicago – Lakeview is at 2901 N. Sheffield Avenue.  

Lakeview’s hours are Monday – Thursday, 12pm -12am; Friday is 12pm -Close; Saturday from 11am – Close; and Sunday from 11am – 12am. 

Barcocino’s West Town hours are Monday – Thursday, 5pm – 12am; Friday from 12pm-Close; Saturday from 11am – Close, and Sunday from 11am – 12am. For information and reservations, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 5 tips for keeping your brain healthy at every age

3d illustration of a brain character in glasses running

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

Effortless Living: Simplifying Your Daily Schedule

Woman dressed in knitted sweater pours hot tea from glass teapot into mug while sitting in bed

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.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – TIME FOR A BREAK!

Relax, refresh and recharge words on office table with computer, coffee, notepad, smartphone and digital tablet

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

Neighborhood News: Near North Side’s Poetry Foundation celebrates “the power of words to transform lives”

An open book with a candle and on the pages is a dried rose

A poet is, before anything else, a person who is passionately in love with language”

W. H. Auden

Here’s a classic Chicago trivia question to start the new year: Who discovered poets Gwendolyn Brooks, James Merrill, and John Ashbery

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. 

As told by the Chicago Tribune, the $21.5 million, two-story structure is the home of the venerable Poetry Magazine, now over a century old, which advanced the careers of such luminaries as T.S. Eliot and Langston Hughes.  

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

Restaurant Review: New Year, New Adventures at Uptown’s Demera, an Ethiopian Delight

A view of assorted Ethiopian entrees, featuring a combination platter

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025!!

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

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Thoughts on de-cluttering

Woman selecting clothes from her wardrobe for donating to a Charity shop

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