‘White Sox! White Sox!

Go-Go White Sox!

Fight song of the Chicago White Sox, by White Sox minor leaguer Al Trace and Walter “Li’l Wally” Jagiello.

As the Chicago White Soxwraps the first series of their 122^nd season against the San Francisco Giants at Armour Square’s Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th Street, it’s no small miracle that Chicago has supported two Major League Baseball teams for more than a century. Today, as always, they are more than just ballgames. They remain events, writ large. 

Be-ginnings: New League/New Park, 1910-91

According to Wikipedia sources, the Chicago White Sox began life as the White Stockings, one of eight charter members of the new American League. The park was built on a former city dump that owner Charles Comiskey bought in 1909 to replace the wooden South Side Park. He started construction on his ‘Baseball Palace of the World’ at the corner of 35th Street and Shields Avenue. Designed by architect Zachary Taylor Davis, who also designed Wrigley Field,  the park’s design was strongly influenced by Sox pitcher Ed Walsh, and was known for its pitcher-friendly proportions-362 feet to the foul poles; 420 feet to center field, according to the Chicago White Sox website. 

Big Events

Through the years, Comiskey Park hosted four World Series (including the infamous ‘Black Sox’ series of 1919)and more than 6,000 Major League Baseball games. The first All-Star Game was held there in 1933, followed by four more, the last in 2003, when it was called US Cellular Field. 

Additionally, the Chicago American Giants of the Negro American League called Comiskey Park home from 1941 to 1950, as well as hosting the Negro League East-West All-Star Game from 1933 to 1960.

The Original Seventh-Inning Stretch 

In the 1970’s, White Sox broadcaster Harry Caray started ‘conducting’ the baseball anthem ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game’ during the seventh-inning stretch, egged on by then-owner Bill Veeck, who (according to Harry) said that “the fans would sing along when they realized that none of them sang any worse than Harry did, “ according to Wikipedia sources. Caray was accompanied by White Sox organist Nancy Faust. 

“Bill Veeck, as in Wreck”

The Comiskey family sold the White Sox to master promoter Bill Veeck in 1959, who had gained infamy by sending 3’7 Eddie Gaedel to pinch hit when he owned the St. Louis Browns. He remained explosive on the South Side with the addition of the first “exploding scoreboard” in the major leagues – shooting fireworks whenever the White Sox hit a home run.  

Not Baseball, But Sure Fun! 

In one of the most famous boxing matches in history, Comiskey was the site of the 1937 heavyweight title match, in which Joe Louis defeated then champion James J. Braddock (‘The Cinderella Man’).

The Chicago (football) Cardinals won the 1947 NFL Championship Game over the Philadelphia Eagles. 

The park was also home to Chicago Mustangs and Chicago Sting of the NASL, hosting the final edition of the original Soccer Bowl.

They hosted The Beatles in one of their first US concerts in 1964.

On July 12, 1979, Veeck, with assistance from son Mike and radio personality Steve Dahl, held one of his most infamous promotions, Disco Demolition Night between games of a scheduled doubleheader, which resulted in a riot at Comiskey Park and a forfeit to the visiting Detroit Tigers. 

1991-present

Veeck sold the Sox to business executives Jerry Reinsdorf and Eddie Einhorn, who were faced with a crumbling infrastructure. They began construction on a brand-new park in 1989. The park opened on April 18, 1991. Since then, the infrastructure has undergone many renovations and naming rights changes, first as US Cellular Field and since 2016, Guaranteed Rate Field. The ballpark now stands as a tribute to the fun days, as well as the serious business of the ballgame. The White Sox won their first World Series of the new millennium in 2005, and still command the crowds with such innovations as:

Rain Rooms: A place where fans can cool off during hot game days. Near section 107 & 537.

Kids Zone: Located in left field. This 15,000-square-foot area provides young fans with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of baseball. It features a youth-sized whiffle ball diamond for coaching clinics, batting and pitching cages, batting “swing” boxes for proper batting techniques and areas for base running and skills instruction.

Speed Pitch Machines: Near section 155 and 522

Shower: A carry-over from old Comiskey Park where fans can cool off during hot gamedays. Near Section 160.

Go Go White Sox, indeed! 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

When you eat can be just as important as what you eat. We all know that certain foods are good for us, but did you know that carefully choosing when you eat certain foods can have an even greater effect? The following are some suggestions to get the most out of the foods you eat.

Before working out is the best time for some complex carbs. Wheat toast, whole grain cereals, pasta, and brown rice are all good. Fruits and vegetables are good too. Save the protein for later, since they are slow to digest. Hungry right before working out? Have an apple or banana! After working out, you need protein and carbs. This helps refuel the muscle energy spent. PB&J  sandwiches are great, as well as lean meat like turkey on whole wheat. Yogurt and fruit works, as well as a healthy smoothie with dairy or protein powder. Even chocolate milk with pretzels is effective!

If you have an energy slump in the afternoon don’t always reach for the coffee. Dark chocolate is a great alternative as it contains caffeine; the darker it is the better! Fruit has sugar for energy but won’t cause the crash associated with processed snacks. Fruits rich in Vitamin C like oranges convert fat into energy.

Feeling anxious? Foods rich in zinc have been linked to lower anxiety. Cashews, oysters, and egg yolks are all rich in zinc. Salmon and other omega 3 rich fish may lessen stress. The probiotics in foods like sauerkraut, kimchee, and pickles can lessen social anxiety.

If you have a busy day ahead, oatmeal is your best bet to start out the day. It contains a fiber known as beta-glucan. It keeps you feeling full longer. Complex carbs like oatmeal boost your serotonin levels to keep you calm and even keeled throughout the day.

Going out for some drinks? Having some good high protein food in your stomach is the way to start out the night. Food eases the irritation of your digestive system and lets the alcohol absorb more slowly. Cheese is good, as well as tofu.

Food can also heal. Chicken soup eases congestion and is anti-inflammatory. The BRAT diet ( bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) helps with all sorts of digestive maladies. Bananas and kiwi fruit can also help with bloating and irritable bowel syndrome.

Nutrition can also affect your skin. We’ve always heard greasy foods as well as chocolate can cause breakouts, but it’s not quite as simple as that. Eat a diet rich in low glycemic foods like vegetables, oats and dried beans. Good nutrition can also help if you are trying to conceive. Folate is most important. It comes in leafy vegetables, peas, oranges, lemons, bananas, melons, and strawberries. Some research suggests full-fat dairy, whole grains, and more protein from plant sources instead of animals can make a difference.

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Welcome to the month of April.  Who would have thought we’d kick-off our weekend on April Fool’s Day!  So, beware the fools and keep yourself entertained at one or all the following events!

The Midwest’s largest pop culture event Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) returns to its annual stomping grounds at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the South Loop this Saturday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.).  Fans can immerse themselves in their favorite fandoms by interacting with award-winning comic artists, anime creators, and their favorite TV and film stars on the Show Floor as well as search for one-of-a-kind merch in Artist Alley, and attend live panels hosted by creators, celebs, and fans!  This year’s guest lineup includes Tom Welling, Matt Lanter, Chris Evans and more!!  And don’t forget to show off your most creative and exquisite cosplay outfit.

After its debut in Chicago last year, Golden-Con is back for another go with this year’s Golden Con:  Thank You for Being a Fan Convention this weekend at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk (301 E. North Water St.) in the River North neighborhood.  This event celebrates the critically acclaimed sitcom The Golden Girls that ran from 1985 to 1992 and will feature special guest appearances, expert panel discussions, live performances, a costume parade, a vendor market, a trivia tournament, and much more!  Celebrate laughter, joy, and friendship with your fellow fans!!

You know it’s time to celebrate Spring and welcome in outdoor drinking when the Half Acre Brewery (2050 W. Balmoral Ave.) in the Lincoln Square neighborhood hosts their Strong Beer Time this Saturday (1 p.m.-7 p.m.).  It’s a celebration of strong lagers including Spring Bock and Doppelbock, some limited barrel aged stouts, and additional lagers from guest breweries.  The afternoon will also be filled with grilled brats, music, and games.  There’s even a Hammerschlagen competition (a game where participants compete to drive nails into a wooden beam) to win prizes!

With Easter right around the corner, the following egg hunts will take place this Saturday:

The NEWCITY and The Chocolate Factory Egg Hunt will take place 2 p.m.-5 p.m. at NEWCITY (1457 N. Halsted St.) in the River North neighborhood featuring over 20,000 eggs pre-stuffed with toys and candy; however, you must register to participate.  Plus, find the magical, coveted Golden Eggs to win prizes as well!  Other activities include music, face painting, balloon artists, an interactive photo station, a candy bar, and more!

The Dog Egg Hunt will take place 1 p.m.-3 p.m. at Horner Park (2741 W. Montrose Ave.) in the Albany Park neighborhood.  Your four-legged family members can search for treat-filled eggs hidden across the lawn.  Other activities include a decorated photo area, local businesses offering freebies and giveaways, a costume contest, and more!

Baseball Season is Back!  Come cheer on your new winning Chicago Cubs as they take on the Milwaukee Brewers this Saturday and Sunday (1:20 p.m.) at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  And no, this is not an April Fool’s Joke!  Let the games begin!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Welcome to April, everyone! Yes, it’s a few days early, but now is the optimal time to plan your family celebrations and most importantly, make your reservations! 

Passover (Pesach) 2023 begins the evening of Wednesday, April 5 and runs through Thursday, April 13.  Holy Week starts with Palm Sunday on April 2, ending on Easter Sunday, April 9. Their common denominator? Both are holidays ending in joy and celebration with those we love most. 

Chicago’s restaurant community comes together during these festive days to prepare and plan great feasts with all the trimmings. 

Passover Celebrations: To-go and/or dine-in

For example, at the West Side’s iconic Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen, 1141 S. Jefferson Street,ordersmust be in by April 1 or “if we sell out.“  No wonder!TheirPassover Dinner serves two, and includes your choice of roasted brisket or chicken, and includes matzo ball soup, kishke, matzo kugel, glazed carrots, and flourless chocolate cake. To reserve, click here. 

At Lakeview’s The Bagel, 3107 N. Broadway, their dine-in Traditional Passover Dinner starts with a chopped egg/onion salad or chopped liver, their ‘Famous Recipe’ Gefilte fish with horseradish, golden chicken broth with matzoh ball, your choice of entrée, including oven-roasted brisket of beef au jus, roasted tender spring chicken, fresh broiled wild Lake Superior whitefish or sweet and sour meatballs in savory sauce, accompanied by carrot, sweet potato and prune tzimmes (a sweet stew), green beans and onions almondine, and oven-baked matzoh dressing. For more information, click here. 

At the Gold Coast’s Bistronomic, 840 N. Wabash, Passover 2023 has a French accent! Start with your choice of farm asparagus salad, tartare, or chicken liver mousse with arugula and apple salad, followed by a choice of glazed beef short ribs with ratatouille, or Faroe Island salmon with an English cucumber and quinoa Tabbouleh salad. End a with a perfect French-inspired cheesecake with poached strawberries, or bittersweet chocolate bars with orange Grand Marnier sauce. For reservations and information, click here. 

Easter Celebrations: To-go and/or dine-in

A new entry for Dean’s Team Chicago in 2023 is Fulton Market’s Rose Mary, 932 W. Fulton Street, offering a four-course, dine-in Croatian Easter feast, including Burek, Nueske’s bacon, farm egg, and mozzarella, Benedict Pampanella, with pork belly, Calabrian chili, and hollandaise, Braised Lamb Hash, with ajvar, kajmak, and red onion. As a final touch, Palačinke (Croatian pancakes) are filled with apple, toffee, and vanilla gelato. For reservations, click here. 

In Andersonville, Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar, 5553 N. Clark Street, describes itself as “a stylish destination for contemporary American fare with house cocktails & a curated wine list.” According to Timeout Chicago, their Easter Brunch options will include fried oysters, deviled eggs, Nutella croissants, lobster cake Benedict, brioche French toast, prosciutto and gruyere omelet, broccoli-cheddar quiche, and chocolate pot de crème. For reservations, click here. 

For an entirely gluten-free menu, CheSa’s Bistro & Bar, 3235 W. Addison Street, in Avondale,offers a fusion of scratch-made Creole and contemporary American flavors. Their Easter specials, according to Choose Chicago, will include garlic lamb chops, lobster benedict, salmon croquettes, and more. Entertainment will be provided by a live DJ. Mmmm! For reservations, click here.

Here’s to Happy Holidays for all! 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Location, location, location. It’s the crux of real estate. But when it comes to buying a home in a new neighborhood, there are other factors to consider in addition to the location itself.

If you’re planning on sticking around your new neighborhood for the long haul, or want to raise a family in a good area, you’d be well-advised to do some homework and research on the community you’re contemplating. A bunch of factors go into figuring out of the desirability of a specific house and the community it’s in.

So how do you know if the neighborhood you’re looking at is right for you?

Ownership Rates Are High

Neighborhoods that have a much higher proportion of owners compared to renters are considered much more stable. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, such as the high percentage of renters in downtown New York City or San Francisco. But for the most part, if the neighborhood you’re looking at features more owners than renters, it’s a good sign of a stable area.

Not only that, but owners tend to take better care of their properties. After all, they own them, and obviously have a much higher vested interest in the properties. Your realtor will be able to provide you with these types of stats for areas you’re looking at. 

Properties That Retain Their Market Value

Certain neighborhoods hold home value better than others, which was evident during the most recent housing crash. Areas where property values remained relatively stable during these trying economic times are more likely the types of areas you want to call home.

Even if you plan on living there forever and have no intention of selling for a profit, it’s still nice to be able to build equity in your home from appreciation alone. You can find information like this from historical sale prices from your county’s tax records office, or else your realtor will be able to provide you with such important info.

It’s a Decent Commute to Work

Houses that are situated nearby major city centers and big employers are in high demand. Especially these days, younger professionals are a lot less likely to want to drive far to work compared to previous generations. The closer the neighborhood is to these business hubs, the better.

Neighborhood Schools Are Rated High

If you have kids, you want to make sure the school within your district is a good one with a healthy reputation. The local school district is typically an important factor to consider when purchasing a house.

Even if you don’t have kids, schools make a big difference for many buyers, who will be more likely to pay more to get into the best school district. This will be a vital factor if you plan on selling some time in the future.

Public Transit is Readily Available

If you can easily and quickly get to a bus stop or subway line, thats good news. Properties with easy access to public transit are generally more valuable compared to those that are not. Among the many factors that are considered when determining a property’s value, proximity of public transit is one of them.

In fact, properties within half a mile of high-frequency public transit routes and stops are worth an average of 42% more. But don’t pick a home that’s too close to these routes – homes that are beside train tracks can actually lose value instead. No one wants to live beside noisy trains or buses.

Home and Neighborhood Improvements Are Noticeable

If you see homes being renovated or even rebuilt, that’s a good sign of a healthy neighborhood. Home owners that are investing a lot of time and money into their properties show that they value their neighborhood, and so should you. And if the city is pouring in money into improvements – such as new sidewalks, trees, etc – that’s also a good sign of a neighborhood that’s nowhere near close to heading south in value.

Your home is purchase is a big one, so you want to make sure you do your due diligence and scope out the area you plan on buying in before you fork over the big bucks. There are tons of signs that the neighborhood is perfect for you to plant some roots. To take things a step further, tap into the experience and knowledge of your real estate agent to find out if the community you’re considering moving into is the right one.