Now that it’s officially summer and school is out, let’s enjoy every moment of this short-lived season here in Chicago starting with this weekend!

In celebration of Chicago Pride Month, the 23^rd annual Chicago Pride Fest is taking over Northalsted this Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) on Halsted Street from Addison to Grace Streets in the Lakeview neighborhood.  Every year, over 100,000 revelers flock to this historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood to take part in this celebration featuring three stages of live music, food from local restaurants, 100+ arts and crafts vendors, a Youth Pride Fest Space for teens, drag shows, dance performances, a high-heel race, and more.  Plus, don’t miss out on the Proud Pet Parade on Sunday with Miss Foozie kicking off at 12:30 p.m. from the North Stage and heading to the South Stage for the Awards Presentation at 1:00 p.m.  It’s free to participate so don’t disappoint your fur baby who could very well be the winner this year!

Come celebrate Asian culture at this year’s Dragon Boat Race for Literacy this Saturday (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Ping Tom Memorial Park (300 W. 19^th St.) in Chinatown.  Cheer on the competing dragon boat teams as they paddle their way down the South Branch of the Chicago River raising money for local schools and literacy organizations.  In addition to the boat races, attendees can enjoy food, live music, cultural dance performances, and more!

Go back millions of years to a land ruled by giants for an immersive experience that brings you face-to-face with these giants at Dinos Alive this Saturday and Sunday (9 a.m.-7 p.m.) at the Exhibition Hub Art Center (2367 W. Logan Blvd.) in the Logan Square neighborhood.  Interact with over 80 life-sized dinos with moving animatronics that include the T-rex, a Stegosaurus, Velociraptors, and many more in their natural Jurassic habitat.  See what it was like to stand in the shadows of the largest creatures who walked the earth.  Plus, your child can learn all about these mighty dinos who dominated the animal world for 140 million years through hands-on activities.  Take this unforgettable journey into the age of dinosaurs!

Making its debut in Chicago, The Lost Kingdoms is a spectacular outdoor Jurassic and Ice Age experience taking place this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) in Washington Park (5531 S. King Dr.) in the Woodlawn neighborhood.  Take a journey from the Jurassic Era of ferocious T-rexes and other dinos to the Ice Age of Woolly Mammoths, growling Sabre Toothed Tigers and others who roamed the earth.  Beware the 50+ animated beasts with moving heads, swaying tails, blinking eyes, jaws open wide, and roaring sound effects at every twist and turn as you explore the park.  In addition, a host of local vendors will offer food, drinks, and souvenirs along the trail.  Enjoy a unique and amazing family day out at this exhibit!

Too hot outside to grill?  Then head on over to Beers and Barbacoa: A Big Star & Hidden Hand Patio Party this Saturday (3 p.m.-10 p.m.) at Big Star West Town (551 N. Ogden Ave.) in the West Town neighborhood.  Enjoy the summer season with delicious beef barbacoa, cold beers from Hidden Hand Brewery, and some good, old-fashioned fun vibes.  Treat yourself to a day off from firing up your grill!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Moroccan cuisine, as described by Shokran’s chef/owner Khalid Kamal, “blends oriental spices brought by Arabic caravans; local produce such as mint, citrus, and olive oil; and the delicate and elaborate flavor combinations from the cosmopolitan and refined Andalusia.”

Kamal told WTTW’s ‘Check Please!’ in an interview, “The natives of Morocco (Berbers) created the tagine and couscous dishes. The Arabs from the Middle East brought the dry fruit that got incorporated in Moroccan cuisine; the Jewish people brought the pickling methods to Moroccan cooking; and the Moroccans, who lived in Spain for eight centuries, introduced the sweet and savory dishes.”

Chef Kamal brings all the flavors of Morocco to a small, cash-only, BYOB storefront in Chicago’s Old Irving Park neighborhood, serving fragrant blends of spices, meats and vegetables in warm, comforting combinations. 

“The reason It’s different, is just the spices we use and different ingredients we use in it; and the way we assemble it,” Kamal told ABC7 Chicago in 2012.

Since it’s hot this week, let’s try some of their cold appetizers. Taktouka is roasted green peppers and tomatoes, flavored with virgin olive oil and special Moroccan spices. Carrot Salad hasJulienne carrots marinated in parsley, olive oil, Moroccan spices and preserved lemon. Mmmm!! Zaalouk is roasted eggplant cooked with fresh tomatoes, virgin olive oil, cilantro, garlic and spices. Or, for the undecided, you can try a little of everything in their Veggie Sampler a tasty combination plate of carrots, bakola, zaalouk and taktouka.

Cool salads for a summer day include their Shokran Salad, a combination of mixed greens, raisins, apples, walnuts and feta cheese with a raspberry vinaigrette. Beet Salad is a colorful mix of roasted beets and tomatoes, tossed with julienne red onions, then marinated in parsley, olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Moroccan Salad has romaine lettuce, tomato, green pepper, red onion, cucumber, red olives and feta cheese, with home-made dressing. 

While Shokran serves delicious kebabs and couscous, the Tangine, (the conical earthenware pot and the dish prepared therein,) is the star attraction here. Try the Lamb Marrakech, which blends tender lamb in a rich Moroccan stew with heart of artichoke and green peas. Kefta combines seasoned Moroccan meatballs cooked in a rich tomato sauce with olive oil, garlic, parsley and your choice of with or without eggs. Lamb Fez is a unique sweet and savory combination of tender lamb in a rich Moroccan stew with prunes, cinnamon, almonds and honey, garnished with hard boiled eggs. Chicken Casablanca is a chicken breast in a rich Moroccan stew with potatoes, olives and Moroccan spices. Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful chicken breast with saffron, olives, preserved lemon and home-made potato crisps.

Vegetable Tagine is a delectable mixture of carrots, red potatoes, artichoke hearts, peas and tomatoes, which is slow-cooked in olive oil and Moroccan spices. Those who love salmon should try it Moroccan style. Their Salmon Tangine is a fresh salmon filet, slow-cooked with charmoula, vegetables and fresh lemons.

Shokranis located at 4027 W. Irving Park Road. It’s open for dinner Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday 3pm–9pm, and Friday and Saturday, 3pm–10pm. Reservations are recommended. For reservation information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, the key to achieving success lies in understanding and harnessing your full potential. By optimizing your productivity, you can accomplish more in less time, reach your goals efficiently, and ultimately unlock new opportunities for growth and advancement. This article explores a range of effective strategies to boost productivity, from setting clear goals and managing time wisely to cultivating a growth mindset and leveraging tools and technology. By implementing these practices and creating a supportive environment for success, you can unleash your full potential and propel yourself towards greater achievements.

1. Understanding Potential and Productivity

The Relationship Between Potential and Productivity

Potential is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, and productivity is the vehicle that helps you unearth it. When you tap into your full potential, productivity becomes the fuel that propels you towards success.

Identifying Your Strengths and Areas for Growth

Take a moment to reflect on what you excel at and areas where you could improve. Knowing your strengths allows you to leverage them for maximum productivity, while acknowledging areas for growth empowers you to seek opportunities for development.

2. Setting Clear Goals and Priorities

Defining Specific, Measurable Goals

Setting vague goals is like navigating without a compass – you might end up going in circles. Define clear, measurable objectives that act as guideposts, directing your efforts towards tangible results.

Prioritizing Tasks Based on Importance and Urgency

Not all tasks are created equal. Determine which tasks are crucial for achieving your goals and prioritize them accordingly. By focusing on what matters most, you can make significant strides in your productivity.

3. Developing Effective Time Management Techniques

Creating a Daily Schedule and To-Do List

A well-organized schedule and to-do list are like a roadmap for your day. By mapping out your tasks and allocating time blocks for each, you can ensure that your day unfolds smoothly, maximizing productivity.

Implementing the Pomodoro Technique for Focus and Breaks

The Pomodoro Technique is a productivity hack that capitalizes on focused work intervals (Pomodoros) followed by short breaks. By dividing your tasks into manageable, focused bursts, you can maintain high productivity levels without burning out.

4. Cultivating a Growth Mindset for Success

Embracing Challenges and Learning Opportunities

Challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, adapt, and expand your skills. By adopting a growth mindset, you can transform setbacks into catalysts for success.

Fostering Resilience and Persistence in the Face of Setbacks

Resilience is the secret sauce that keeps you going when the going gets tough. Cultivate a resilient attitude that views setbacks as temporary hurdles rather than insurmountable obstacles. With persistence and determination, you can weather any storm and emerge stronger than before.

5. Leveraging Tools and Technology for Efficiency

Exploring Productivity Apps and Software Solutions

In a world where there’s an app for almost everything, why not use technology to supercharge your productivity? From task management apps to time tracking tools, there’s a plethora of options to help you stay organized and focused.

Automating Repetitive Tasks to Save Time

Who has time for mundane tasks that can easily be automated? Whether it’s setting up email filters, scheduling social media posts, or using software to streamline workflows, embracing automation can free up valuable time for more important tasks.

6. Establishing Healthy Habits for Sustainable Productivity

Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being

Burnout is so last season. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining peak productivity. Make time for activities that recharge your batteries, whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or indulging in a guilty pleasure TV show.

Incorporating Regular Exercise and Mindfulness Practices

Move that body and clear that mind! Regular exercise not only boosts your physical health but also sharpens your mental focus. Plus, incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation can help reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.

7. Building a Supportive Environment for Optimal Performance

Cultivating a Positive and Collaborative Work Culture

Surround yourself with positivity and watch your productivity soar. Foster a work environment where collaboration is encouraged, ideas are shared freely, and support is readily available. A positive workplace culture can work wonders for motivation and efficiency.

Seeking Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

No one succeeds alone. Seek out mentorship from those who have walked the path before you and tap into networking opportunities that can expand your horizons. Learning from others and building a strong support network can provide invaluable guidance and inspiration on your productivity journey.In conclusion, by adopting these proven strategies and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can empower yourself to unleash your full potential and maximize productivity. Remember, progress takes time and effort, but with dedication and consistency, you can make significant strides towards achieving your goals and realizing your true capabilities. Embrace the journey of self-improvement, stay focused on your objectives, and continue to strive for excellence in all that you do. Here’s to unlocking your potential and reaching new heights of productivity and success.

With summer’s official entrance less than a week away, the great outdoors beckons! And what better way to experience Chicago’s unique neighborhoods than perched on a two-wheeler, the wind at your back?  Chicago’s Bike Trailswelcome you! 

While most people know the Lakefront Trail, there’s another trail you need to know. Along the way, you’ll see great artwork, Chicago’s landmark museums, and historic structures!

The 606 and The Bloomingdale Trail 

Among the best known of the city trails are ‘The 606,’ aka, the Bloomingdale Trail. As their website indicates, the trail known as ‘The 606’ runs along the Bloomingdale Trail (1800N) for 2.7 miles between Ashland (1600W) and Ridgeway (3750W). Walking, cycling or taking public transportation is encouraged. There are 12 access points, approximately every quarter-mile, with a total of 17 access ramps, all of which are accessible to people with disabilities.

The Bloomingdale Trail Is the elevated, multi-use linear park made out of the unused Bloomingdale railroad embankment. The Bloomingdale Trail runs through four Chicago neighborhoods, from Logan Square and Humboldt Park to the west, through Bucktown and Wicker Park to the east.

History Of the Bloomingdale Trail and The 606

The story of The Bloomingdale Trail (and the 606)begins just after the Great Chicago Fire, as their website indicates. As their story goes, the Chicago City Council gave permission for the Chicago & Pacific Railroad to lay tracks down the middle of Bloomingdale Ave. (1800 N) on Chicago’s Northwest side. The move helped connect goods from outlying rail ports to the busy Chicago River, and supported Chicago’s burgeoning industrial growth.

Following the Fire, Chicago’s population boomed, and dangerous conflicts between residents and rail abounded — with rail often the victor. Between the 1870s and 1890s, thousands were injured or killed each year due to treacherous rail crossings at grade (ground level). In response, elevating the city’s rail lines became a political hot button and a critical issue for social reformers.

In 1893, the City Council passed an ordinance mandating that railroads elevate their tracks within six years. The Bloomingdale Line, now operated by the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad Company, was one of the last to conform to the new ordinance, beginning work in 1910 and completing in 1913. 

Trains rolled overhead until the 1980s, when activity slowed to a trickle. By the mid-1990s, the few trains that used the corridor were re-routed, and freight service ceased almost completely. The final freight train passed through in 2001. 

It was only a matter of time before the communities along the line rediscovered the space.  Official plans for converting the Bloomingdale Line into a public space date back to the late 1990s, when it was included in the City’s Bike Plan. In 2003, inspired by neighbors making their own unofficial trail, the Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail (FBT) came together.

Around the same time the City’s Department of Planning and Development held a series of public meetings to determine how to bring new open space to the City’s underserved Northwest side, ultimately recommending an elevated park on the Bloomingdale embankment. This would become the Logan Square Open Space Plan, which was adopted by the Chicago Plan Commission in 2004. FBT also participated in the New Communities Program, which created Quality of Life Plans for Logan Square and Humboldt Park, both plans supported the construction of a new greenway on the old rail line. In 2006 the Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail reached out to the national nonprofit, The Trust for Public Land, which helped bring together a coalition of city and civic organizations to move the project forward.

Ultimately, according to the website, the Bloomingdale Trail’s transformation from freight rail to multi-use path would become a reality due to a confluence of decades of community organizing and city planning. “From industrial beacon to impromptu nature trail, to innovative public space and alternative transportation corridor for the next generation, the Bloomingdale Line turned Bloomingdale Trail has been the site of innovation since its inception,” according to its website. 

Today 

As Choose Chicago notes, in addition to special events and programs throughout the year — from community bonfires and workouts to public art openings and astronomy nights, the 606 and Bloomingdale Trail are home to several checkpoints, including:

Exelon Observatory, the  “perfect spot for spectacular sunset views over the city. The observatory also hosts regular astronomy nights at The 606. The Observatory is located at 1801 N. Ridgeway Avenue, Logan Square.”

Damen Arts Plaza: Located at Damen and Bloomingdale in Bucktown, you can find rotating public art exhibits, creating one of the city’s most unique urban art spaces. 

Julia de Burgos Park, at1801 N. Albany Avenue in Humboldt Park, features a climbing web, spider sculpture, and a long sitting wall decorated with nature themes, led by the Chicago Public Art Group. The park is one of many access points to The 606. 

There’s so much more to the trails. Enjoy your summer! For more information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago 

As we move into the summer months, people will be eating and grilling outside. Now is a good time to think about how to keep all that delicious food safe to eat. The bacteria that cause foodborne illness thrive in summertime and multiply quickly in warm temperatures. You might already be familiar with most of these tips, but it’s always good to refresh. Here are some of the safe ways to handle food outside:

Wash your hands. This is number one of course! We all became better hand washers during COVID, and it remains a good first rule. Wash in running water with soap and lather for 20 seconds, rinse and dry. No running water? Use wipes or hand sanitizer that have at least 60% alcohol.

Store perishable foods safely. Use coolers or insulated containers with cold sources. This can be ice or frozen gel packs. You can also freeze bottles of water or iced tea to use as your cold source. Keep coolers out of the sun and be mindful of how often you open them! Full coolers keep perishables cold and safe longer. You can use insulated bags if you don’t have a full cooler. 

Keep cold and hot foods at the right temperatures. This is the range between 40 and 140 degrees. Cold foods under 40 and hot foods at least 140. Cold foods of course should be in coolers and hot foods on the grill, chafing dish, warming tray or in the slow cooker. Bring along an instant read thermometer to make sure your food stays outside of the “Danger Zone”.

Follow the two-hour rule. Foods that are kept at the right temperature or don’t sit out for more than 2 hours are safe to keep. Other foods should be considered unsafe and disposed of. It’s not worth it to save a little bit of food that could make you or your family sick. Remember the golden rule: When in doubt, throw it out!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago