Holiday Hosting Hacks: How to Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy

Interior of a real laundry room with a washing machine at home

Hosting guests during the holidays can be a joyous occasion, but it often comes with the added stress of ensuring your home is clean and organized. With a bit of planning and some clever hacks, you can keep your space tidy and welcoming without feeling overwhelmed. In this article, we will explore effective strategies for maintaining a clean and organized home during the holiday season, from pre-holiday preparations to quick clean-up tips for unexpected guests. By implementing these holiday hosting hacks, you can enjoy a stress-free and welcoming environment for your visitors.

Planning Ahead for Holiday Hosting Success

Creating a Pre-Holiday Cleaning Schedule

Before the chaos ensues, take the time to map out a cleaning schedule to tackle tasks effectively without feeling overwhelmed. Breaking down tasks into manageable chunks can make a world of difference.

Organizing Guest Accommodations in Advance

Ensure your guests feel welcome and comfortable by preparing guest accommodations ahead of time. Fresh linens, cozy blankets, and a few thoughtful touches can go a long way in making them feel at home.

Streamlining Cleaning and Organization Efforts

Utilizing Cleaning Checklists for Efficiency

Cleaning checklists are like your trusty sidekick in the battle against dirt and clutter. They help you stay on track, ensuring no nook or cranny is left uncleaned. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about ticking off tasks.

Implementing a Daily Tidying Routine

A daily tidying routine can prevent messes from spiraling out of control. Spend just a few minutes each day tidying up common areas to maintain a sense of order and cleanliness throughout the holiday season.

Maximizing Space and Storage Solutions

Decluttering to Open Up Space

Channel your inner Marie Kondo and declutter your space to create a more open and inviting atmosphere for your guests. Donate or store items you no longer need to make room for holiday cheer.

Utilizing Multi-Functional Furniture for Storage

Invest in furniture that pulls double duty by providing storage solutions. Ottomans with hidden compartments, coffee tables with built-in shelves, and bed frames with drawers can help keep clutter at bay.

Quick Clean-Up Tips for Last-Minute Guests

Creating Emergency Cleaning Kits for Rapid Clean-Ups

Stock up on essential cleaning supplies and create emergency cleaning kits for quick touch-ups when unexpected guests drop by. A stash of wipes, microfiber cloths, and a trusty all-purpose cleaner can be lifesavers.

Focus on High-Traffic Areas for a Speedy Refresh

When time is of the essence, focus on cleaning high-traffic areas like the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. A quick sweep, wipe, and fluff can work wonders in giving your home a fresh and welcoming feel for your guests.

Staying Stress-Free with Time-Saving Techniques

Let’s face it, hosting during the holidays can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not, there are ways to stay stress-free and maintain your sanity while keeping your home in tip-top shape.

Delegate Tasks to Family Members or Roommates

Why carry the cleaning burden all by yourself? Enlist the help of your family members or roomies to tackle different tasks. Divvy up the duties based on each person’s strengths and preferences. You’ll be amazed at how much more efficient and enjoyable the cleaning process can be when everyone pitches in.

Utilize Technology for Smart Home Cleaning Solutions

Gone are the days when cleaning meant hours of manual labor. Embrace the wonders of technology to streamline your cleaning routine. Invest in robotic vacuums, smart mops, or automated cleaning gadgets to handle the dirty work for you. Sit back, relax, and let the machines do the heavy lifting while you focus on other holiday preparations.As you navigate the hustle and bustle of holiday hosting, remember that a well-prepared and organized home can make a significant difference in your hosting experience.

Bottom-line

By incorporating the tips and strategies shared in this article, you can streamline your cleaning efforts, maximize your space, and stay stress-free throughout the holiday season. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a clean and welcoming environment that allows you to focus on making lasting memories with your loved ones. Happy hosting!

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Ringing in the Holidays!

Turkey Cartoon Character Ringing A Bell

This weekend we officially ring in the holidays with a host of festive events, as we anxiously await the arrival of Thanksgiving Day this coming Thursday.  Check it out!

Take your senses on a journey at the return of the ever popular Christkindlmarket now through December 24th at the Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington St.) in The Loop.  This iconic German-inspired holiday market brings you vendor handmade products from around the world, the smell of roasted nuts, pretzels, bratwurst, and other German food, plenty of hot beverages, the sound of festive music, special events, and more.  And, as you wander around and soak in the cozy atmosphere that has been created for you, don’t forget to try the spiced glühwein, a German hot wine concoction best enjoyed in the market’s famous boot mugs.  It’s truly an ideal place to make unique memories with your family and/or friends!

Your holiday cheer begins here at the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival this Saturday starting with the Lights Festival Lane (11 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Ave.) on the Near North Side.  This lane features a festive thoroughfare of booths and free family activities as well as the Wintrust Pavilion for complimentary photos with Santa Claus.  Then at 5:30 p.m. it’s time for the Parade which steps off from Oak Street and Michigan Avenue led by Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from the Walt Disney World® Resort who will illuminate more than one million lights on 200+ trees down the parade route on North Michigan Avenue.  This spectacular parade will also feature fabulous floats with other Disney beloved characters, giant helium balloons, marching bands from across the country, musical celebrities, and, of course, Santa Claus.  The evening finishes with The Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular (7:30 p.m.) over the Chicago River.  Come feel the magic of this dazzling holiday festival!

Enjoy a day of shopping at the Millennium Park Holiday Market this Saturday (12 p.m.-8 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-5 p.m.) located in the Chase Promenade North tent in Millennium Park (55 N. Michigan Ave.) in The Loop.  This pop-up holiday market will feature dozens of local artists selling a variety of items; holiday themed food, hot drinks, and cocktails for purchase; and live entertainment.

Kickstart your Turkey Day (November 28) with the 46th annual Life Time Turkey Trot Chicago at Diversey Harbor (2601 N. Cannon Dr.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  Enjoy a crisp fall morning as you run or walk the 5K or 8K course along the shores of Lake Michigan.  There’s also the Plymouth Rock Ramble for your little gobblers to enjoy a trot of their own.  Afterwards, it’s time to celebrate your finish at the amazing Turkey Day Tailgate for some delicious fall treats, live music, and fun activities for the whole family.  It’s the perfect way to begin your Thanksgiving Day while giving back to a worthy cause!

Before digging into your turkey dinner, catch the 90th annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on Thursday (November 28) from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in The Loop.  Join thousands on State Street as the parade travels north from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street.  Not only is this parade a free family tradition highlighting talent from across the nation and the best Chicagoland has to offer, but it also includes marching bands, festive floats, larger-than-life cartoon-character helium balloons, majestic equestrian units, a diverse array of staged cultural performances, and more.  It’s a celebration for attendees of all ages!  Happy Gobble Day!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Lush, green North Park Village Nature Center transformed from a TB Sanitarium

Illinois bikeway in the fall

“Whether you seek serenity, a place to spot a rare bird or a place to volunteer your time and talent, visit this oasis of nature in the city – this hidden gem.”

North Park Village Nature Center website 

Traveling down the lush, green trails and surrounding grounds of the 155-acre North Park Village Nature Center 5801 N. Pulaski Road, it’s hard to imagine that from 1911 to 1974, it was known as the Chicago Municipal Tuberculosis Sanitarium, its historic buildings and beautiful grounds home to hundreds of patients through its 63-year existence.

In the beginning…

Native Americans were the first to settle the area where wild onion and leek grew, according to the blog site Urban ExplorerIn the 1850s, a Norwegian immigrant named Pehr Samuel Petersen built a tree nursery on the land. He provided trees for Lincoln Park and many of Chicago’s parkways as well as the 1893 World’s Fair. 

In pre-vaccine days, according to the Chicago Park District website, tuberculosis was a frequently deadly disease, spread by droplets from infected individuals in the early 20th century.  They needed a spot, and when Peterson died in 1903, his family gave the city 160 acres to build a tuberculosis sanitarium. 

Doctors believed, according to Urban Explorer, that open spaces and fresh air were the best cure for patients. The Sanitarium’s Board of Directors hired landscape architect Ossian Cole Simonds (1855 – 1931) and architects Clark & Otis to design and lay out the facility.  Portions of the land were changed into paths, gardens for growing food, fields to play and a pond for recreation. They designed a small brick cottage-like structure that would become the Nature Center.  This originally served the Sanitarium’s dispensary, Patients were here from 1915 when Chicago’s Municipal Tuberculosis Sanitarium first opened until the mid-1970s, when the facility closed after TB had been largely eradicated.

Today…observing nature up close, celebrating the seasons every day 

North Park Village borders Pulaski Road, Peterson Avenue, and Chicago Park District’s Peterson Park. The park is located adjacent to the neighborhoods of North Park, Sauganash, and Albany Park, and is open seven days a week (excluding holidays) from 9am–4pm.  

Often, you can find a deer family walking deep in the forested areas as you walk along the winding trails..m through woodland, wetland, prairie, and savanna. In the Nature Center, there’s a discovery room, a hands-on table of natural objects, and interactive displays. In addition to the Nature Center and natural area, visitors can also enjoy exploration through Walking Stick Woods, a 12-acre woodland with trails and nodes designed for Nature Play.

“We’re doing a lot of work to restore a lot of the prairie and native plants and species,” Amaris Alanis-Ribeiro, North Park Village Nature Center’s director,  told WTTW (which has offices nearby) in 2022. “Monarch butterflies this year were listed as endangered. Every year we host a festival called Monarch-palooza and this year we’re definitely going to continue to bring attention to the conservation of butterflies. We also want to uplift the indigenous and cultural connections with the monarch butterfly.”

There are programs for all ages, including preschoolers, school-age children, families, and adults. The Eco-Explorers summer day camp focuses on nature-based games and learning activities for children aged 5-14 years old. Neighborhood Naturalists is a special outreach program serving third graders in Chicago Public Schools. For adults, a their volunteer programs including helping lead field trips, assisting during festivals, greeting visitors at the reception desk, and participating in ecological cleanup events. 

Winter Solstice Festival 

On Saturday, December 14, from 5pm to 8pm, North Park Village Nature Center is welcoming winter with a free Winter Solstice Festival, featuring star gazing, a bonfire, nature walks, tasting chestnuts and more. 

Maple Tree Event in March 

In March, North Park Nature Center hosts a free celebration to honor their maple trees and “the special gift of sap.” They host family-friendly activities and offer abundant opportunities to observe and taste the maple syrup process.

For more information on the North Park Nature Center, click here

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Feasting on Thanksgiving-to-go throughout Chicago

Happy African American little girl holding Happy Thanksgiving placard while celebrating with her family at home and looking at camera

Thanksgiving is coming up fast…just a week from Thursday, on November 28. 

As is our tradition here at Dean’s Team Chicago, we are featuring restaurants that offer to-go options for the entire family, including vegans, vegetarians, and those who enjoy non-traditional options! That way, you can enjoy a great meal wherever you like…at home, in an outdoor space, or at a Chicago  institution. But be forewarned…get your orders in soon…many restaurants have deadlines and we are listing them below.

Beatrix, with locations inRiver North and Streeterville, is offering Herb Roasted Turkey Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Holiday Green Beens, Traditional Stuffing, Traditional Gravy, Parker House Rolls and House-Made Cranberry Sauce for $179.95, plus tax.  And as we often say here, don’t forget dessert! Pumpkin Chiffon Pie, Oh My! Caramel Pie, vegan Hummingbird Cake or gluten-free Tall, Dark & Handsome Chocolate Cake! All Thanksgiving Dinner To-Go and a la carte items serve 4-6 guests. Orders must be placed by Monday, November 25 at 12:00 PM for carryout and delivery on Wednesday, November 27. To order, click here

Bub City, 435 N Clark Street, is offering a Thanksgiving to-go dinner package. Enjoy a traditional, succulent Smoked Turkey, with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie. If you don’t need the whole feast, turkey, sides and whole pies are available to order a la carte. Add Smoked Brisket or Pork by the Pound to your order, among everything else Bub City offers. Packages will be available for groups of two for $99.95, four for $189.95, or eight for $359.95, plus tax. The order cutoff is Monday, November 24 for pickup on Wednesday, November 27. To order, click here

The Chicago Diner, 3411 N. Halsted Street in Lakeview, provides vegan, vegetarian and gluten free feasts,  featuring Wellingtons, Veggie Roasts, Mushroom Lentil Loaf, Herbed Stuffing, Sweet Potatoes, Jalapeno Corn Fritters, and Pumpkin Pie. Dishes are available individually or as part of meals or family packs. Orders must be placed by 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 24 for pickup from noon to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27.  To order, click here

Le Sud, 2301 W. Roscoe Street, in Roscoe Village has dinner packages that  include brined, ready-to-cook Turkey Breasts and Whole birds, as well as sides such as Red Quinoa with Arugula, Roasted Butternut Squash with pickled golden raisins, roasted pecans, l pears,  Brussels sprouts (pickled red onion, feta), and stuffing (apple, herbs de Provence, garlic, rosemary, fennel). Place pre-orders online by Friday, November 22 for pickup or delivery between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27. To order, click here.

Smoke Daddy BBQ,  1804 W. Division Street. The Wicker Park institution is offering their peerless Smoked Whole Turkeys, Glazed Bone-in Smoked Ham, and Pulled Turkey by the pound. Pair them with hearty sides like Cornbread Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Bean Casserole, as well as Pecan Pies, Pumpkin Pies, and bottles of spiked cider. Place orders via Tock for pickup on Tuesday, November 26, and Wednesday, November 27 at Smoke Daddy’s locations in Wrigleyville, Smoke Daddy Wicker Park, or Crosby’s Kitchen. To order, click here

Tandoor Char House, 2652 N. Halsted Street in Lincoln Park. Treat your family to an Indian-Pakistani feast featuring Tandoori Chicken (bone-in or boneless), Butter Chicken, Vegetarian Samosas, Cumin Rice, and Garlic Naan. Pair that with you choice of three sides, including Corn Chaat, Chana Masala, Aloo gobi, and Palak Paneer, and Gulab Jamun for dessert. Choose your own spice level. Vegetarian options are available upon request. Place pre-orders for pickup by Tuesday, November 26.  Food can be picked up until Thanksgiving Day.  To order, click here

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Making Thanksgiving easier

Traditional stuffing side dish for Thanksgiving in a baking pan

By now you’ve probably done most of your preparation for Thanksgiving. Checking your serving pieces along with what you will need to cook with. Your menu if not already done will need to be finalized. Hopefully you are getting some help from family and guests on that. Your turkey or other main meat has been ordered from the butcher. Now, you can really get your plan detailed for the big day!

I’m old school and like to use a yellow legal pad. I list every dish and include everything down to pickles and olives for the relish tray. To the right of your menu list all ingredients needed. Check off any you have already purchased. If a menu item is being brought by another, indicate that and double check the week of Thanksgiving to confirm. Then you can start on the schedule for the day. 

Now it’s time to go through your menu. What can be made ahead of time? Many dishes can be made up to 3 days before Thanksgiving. Dips and other appetizers are often better when made the day before. Stuffing is another time-consuming dish that can be made the day before and placed in a baking dish, covered with foil ready to pop in the oven. 40 minutes at 350 degrees will do it. I use Brownberry bagged stuffing. Add melted butter, sauteed onion and celery, broth and butter. I think it’s best to follow the instructions on the bag. Having a crudité tray? This also can be made ahead of time, wrapped in plastic in the dish you’re serving it on. Most desserts can also be made ahead. 

Next to do is your schedule for the day. From the time the turkey needs to go in the oven to when to start the potatoes. Having an hour-by-hour schedule will keep everything running smoothly and ensure everything will be done on time and nothing overlooked, which is very easy on that busy day with so many dishes to organize. Don’t forget to use that microwave. It’s great for reheating. From hot dips to veggies and dinner rolls it heats in a jiffy. Make mashed potatoes earlier in the day and keep warm in a slow cooker. Add a bit of hot cream and melted butter just before serving. 

Setting your table is another task that does not need to wait for Thursday. Set the table a few days early. Put out all your serving pieces and utensils along with hot pads or trivets. You may realize that you need a few more pieces. It’s better to know this earlier rather than later. Cover everything with a clean white sheet to keep the dust off. It’s also time to bring up those folding chairs and TV trays from the basement for holding drinks and snacks. Give them all a good wipe down and you’re ready to go. 

Do you have any other ideas to make Thanksgiving easier?

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Get Your Home Winter-Ready: Essential Tasks for Homeowners in November

Wrapped in a warm scarf, a symbolic wooden house stands on an electric radiator

Getting your home winter-ready is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe living environment during the colder months. November is the perfect time for homeowners to tackle a series of tasks that will help protect their property from the harsh winter elements. From exterior maintenance to interior preparations, focusing on key areas like HVAC systems, insulation, plumbing, and fire safety can make a significant difference in how your home weathers the winter season. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the essential tasks that homeowners should prioritize in November to prepare their homes for winter.

Exterior Maintenance

Roof Inspection and Repair

Before the snow starts falling, it’s crucial to check your roof for any damage or missing shingles. Fixing issues now can prevent costly leaks and water damage later on.

Gutter Cleaning and Inspection

Clear out those gutters! Leaves and debris can clog them up, leading to water overflow and potential damage to your home’s foundation.

Sealing Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can make your heating bill skyrocket. Seal up any gaps with weather stripping or caulk to keep the cold air out.

Interior Preparation

Check and Replace Weather Stripping

Inspect the weather stripping around windows and doors. If it’s worn out or cracked, it’s time to replace it to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.

Inspect and Clean Chimneys and Fireplaces

Before you cozy up by the fire, make sure your chimney is clear of debris and your fireplace is in good working condition. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

HVAC System Check

Change Air Filters

Don’t forget to change your air filters! Clean filters help your system run efficiently and improve indoor air quality.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Consider scheduling a professional maintenance check-up for your HVAC system. A little TLC now can prevent major issues during the colder months.

Insulation Inspection

Check Attic Insulation

A well-insulated attic can keep your home warm and energy-efficient. Inspect your attic insulation and add more if needed.

Seal Drafts in Walls and Floors

Drafts in walls and floors can make your home feel chilly and drive up heating costs. Seal up any gaps or cracks to keep the cold air out.

Fire Safety Precautions

Review Fire Escape Plan

Refresh everyone in your household on the fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Ensure your detectors are in working order by testing them and replacing batteries if needed.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Install Programmable Thermostat

Opt for a programmable thermostat to efficiently regulate your home’s temperature, saving both energy and money.

Consider Energy-Efficient Window Coverings

Upgrade your window coverings to insulate your home better and prevent heat loss during the colder months.By taking the time to complete these essential tasks, homeowners can rest assured that their homes are well-prepared to handle whatever winter may bring. From ensuring efficient heating systems to safeguarding against potential hazards, these November maintenance efforts can go a long way in protecting both the property and its occupants throughout the colder months. By staying proactive and addressing these key areas, homeowners can enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter season in their well-prepared homes.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Arrival of 2024 Holiday Season!

Happy Holidays Christmas Card Design with Close Up of Pine Tree Branch and Snow in the Woods

Chicago’s 2024 Holiday Season is here!  This weekend not only offers the return of many holiday favorite events but also some non-holiday events for those who aren’t quite ready to ring in the holidays.

One of Chicago’s beloved holiday shopping traditions is The Randolph Street Holiday Market taking place this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington St.) in the West Loop.  Once again, this vibrant Holiday Market features unique handcrafted treasures, antiques, vintage fashion, a mix of vintage and modern decorative objects, housewares, art, hostess gifts, and more from over 125 vendors.  Besides shopping, this Market also rings in the season with craft cocktails, fancy foods, informal modeling, a DJ, and kids crafts.  In addition, there’s even onsite parking, gift wrapping, and personal shopping assistance available as well!

Celebrate 30 years of priceless holiday memories at Lincoln Park Zoo’s (2001 N. Clark St.) annual Zoolights now through early January offering the largest display of holiday lights within the city limits.  This year’s display will feature over 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays, and new artistic, interactive displays and programming.  Plus, many festive seasonal experiences are available throughout the zoo as well as special ticketed events including Adults Night Out and a musical tribute to “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”  Don’t miss out on Chicagoland’s favorite holiday tradition!

This weekend’s non-holiday events include:

In 2010, Bourbon County Brand Rare Stout was released highlighting the critical role barrels play as an ingredient and has set a new standard for barrel-aged beer.  Returning for its 10th anniversary, Goose Island Rare Day takes place this Saturday on the streets outside of the Fulton Street Brewery (1800 W. Fulton St.) in the Goose Island neighborhood taking the place of their “Prop Day” street fest to reintroduce this exceptional release.  Rare Day will give attendees an opportunity to get a first taste of this year’s lineup, which does include the Bourbon County Brand Rare Stout, along with a commemorative glass, a welcome pour and access to the fest with five tasting tickets.  The brewery is looking forward to seeing you here for beer, food, and many rare surprises!

If you see a Viking roaming the Andersonville neighborhood, you’re not hallucinating!  Returning for its 7th year is the Viking Pub Crawl this Sunday (3 p.m.-6 p.m.) at various venues throughout Andersonville.  Hundreds of revelers clad in full Viking attire will be celebrating the Swedish holiday of St. Morten’s Gås Day.  Returning this year is the Viking costume contest for a chance to win amazing prizes, and a Viking rune scavenger hunt filled with surprises and prizes.  A ticket includes a commemorative glass, appetizers from The Dinner Belle, and access to drink specials at participating bars.  So, grab one of the pub crawl’s cow horn-shaped drinking vessels for an afternoon of festive fun, laughter, and camaraderie with your fellow Norse-enthusiasts!

Finally, Chicago’s 111th annual Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on Friday, November 22, at Millennium Park (55 N. Michigan Ave.) in The Loop and will shine brightly through January 8, 2025.  This year’s tree, a 53-foot Colorado Blue Spruce, was donated by the Holden-Shaddick family of the Logan Square neighborhood!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Albany Park’s American Indian Center celebrates Native American Heritage year-round

Native american heritage month greeting graphic

November is Native American Heritage Month, and as Choose Chicago notes, the city is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the United States, with about 65,000 Native American residents and some 175 different tribes represented.

For 71 years, the American Indian Center (AIC), 3401 W. Ainslie Street, has celebrated Chicago’s Native American heritage , which was the traditional homelands of the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi people. Many other tribes, including the Miami, Ho-Chunk, Sac, and Fox, have also called this area home. 

Beginnings

The Center was founded in 1953 by Native Americans with assistance from the Quaker-affiliated American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), according to Wikipedia sources. John Willard, the executive director of the AFSC in Chicago played a key role in organizing and raising funds for the project. AIC was organized to help Native families cope with the transition from reservation to urban life. The Center is overseen by Native American members, from a variety of tribes, who make up its board. 

A Center for Culture, Enrichment, and Advocacy 

As they say on their website, The American Indian Center is “fiercely committed to uplifting Chicago’s Native community by creating spaces where our culture thrives, our voices lead, and our future is built on the strength of our people.” 

Whether you’re drawn to the artistry of beadwork, the vitality of Native fitness, the rhythm of drumming and singing, or the creativity of stitch and sew, AIC’s programs offer something for everyone.  

Free Open Beadwork Classes

Beadwork holds a profound place in Native American culture. It’s a form of expression that tell stories, honors ancestors, and connect with each other on a meaningful level. Each bead and pattern carries significance, reflecting the diversity and richness of our traditions. AIC honors this tradition through offering Open Beadwork classes every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. AIC supplies all the materials needed for basic beadwork projects—from beads and needles to thread and design patterns. 

Free ‘Stitch and Sew’ Classes 

Have you ever wanted to learn sewing techniques that are deeply rooted in cultural traditions? Or create your own regalia, ribbon skirts, or shirts? Whatever your inspiration, AIC “warmly invites” you to join every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the American Indian Center for a free Stitch and Sew Class. In these classes, you can:

  • Learn Regalia Making: Dive into the art of creating traditional regalia, meaningful expressions of cultural identity worn during ceremonies and special events.
  • Create Ribbon Skirts and Shirts: Learn how to make ribbon skirts and shirts, garments that hold cultural significance and are often adorned with symbolic designs.

No need to bring anything. AIC supplies all the materials needed for your sewing projects—from fabrics and ribbons to thread and sewing machines. 

Arts, Activities and Community  Events 

AIC focuses on the arts by offering workshops such as drum making, moccasin making, and also by housing the first and only art gallery space dedicated to the promotion and education of Native artists in the city of Chicago. 

They host monthly senior lunches, monthly community potlucks and weekly drum practice.

AIC also runs a year-round education program for youth that provides culturally based after school and summer programming for youth of all ages.

NOTE: Allclasses are open to the public, embracing participants from all walks of life. Whether you’re a member of the Native community, an ally, or simply curious, you are welcome here.

Honoring the Legacy of Native Code Talkers

On Veterans Day, AIC paid special tribute to the Native Code Talkers, whose contributions in World War I and World War II helped secure victory for the Allies. Many people know of the Navajo Code Talkers from WWII, but the story actually begins with the Choctaw Code Talkers in WWI. Choctaw soldiers in the U.S. Army’s 36th Infantry Division used their language to transmit secure messages that confounded enemy forces, pioneering the use of Native languages in secure military communications.

According to their website, in WWII, Native speakers from the Navajo, Comanche, Hopi, and other nations were formally recruited by the U.S. military to develop complex codes based on their languages. The Navajo Code Talkers, in particular, created an unbreakable code that was crucial in key battles like Iwo Jima. Their contributions saved countless lives, and their code was so effective it remained classified until 1968.

For more information about membership, programs, and advocacy, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Make Your Thanksgiving Reservations Now! Sit down dinners for $100 per person or less…much less

Family cozy thanksgiving dinner arrangement indoors at home

According to Britannica.com, Thanksgiving Day celebrates the harvest and other blessings of the past year. Americans generally believe that their Thanksgiving is modeled on a 1621 harvest feast shared by the English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people. 

Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863, when Godey’s Lady’s Book editor Sarah Josepha Hale, campaigned for a national Thanksgiving Day to promote unity. Thanks to these efforts, we’re celebrating on Thursday, November 28.

Thanksgiving Day football games began with Yale versus Princeton in 1876. 

Chicago restaurants are keen to bring families together for this special day.

Chicago Loop

Miro at The St. Regis Chicago, 401 E. Wacker Drive, 11th Floor, is serving an Asian-American Thanksgiving Brunch from 7am–2pm. Try such specialties as Okonomiyaki, a Japanese cabbage pancake with baby shrimp and tonkatsu, Breakfast Bao with egg custard, bacon, crunchy garlic aioli, Steak and Eggs served with hash browns Shiso Chimichurri, and much more. For reservations, click here

River North 

According to Secret Chicago, one of the best restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago is The Smith, 400 N. Clark Street. A special three-course prix fixe menu ($82 per person) features a choice of turkey in three ways—roasted breast, braised leg, or turkey pot pie—along with other options for non-turkey lovers,such as Butternut Squash Soup with ginger-apple crème fraîche, Spiced Pepitas, Ricotta Gnocchi Truffle Cream, Turkey Leg Osso Buco with jalapeño cheddar grits, and Pickled Cranberries. For reservations, click here. 

Lincoln Park

Forget formality, high heels, heavy sauces, and traditional turkey stuffing. Travel across Lincoln Park to R.J. Grunt’s, 2056 N. Lincoln Park West.  Try their original Thanksgiving on a Bun, which they describe as “All the leftovers of Thanksgiving put into a butter toasted Ciabatta Bun! Turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce, with a side of homemade turkey gravy.”  Or, try a Turkey Burger…which  as they say is “no chicken when it joins up with tomato, lettuce, and Swiss cheese to fight for freedom, justice, and mayonnaise!”  Top off with a Healthy Malt orShake, made with low-fat yogurt and skim milk.  Reserve now by clicking here.

Lakeview

Another  alternative to the traditional turkey dinner is the casual, collegiate atmosphere of Cheesies, 958 W. Belmont.TheirNovember Sandwich of the Month’ is called The Gobbler! Indulge in the flavors of Thanksgiving all month long with rich Swiss cheese, juicy shredded turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, hearty stuffing, and crisp carrots, peas, and corn—all smothered in savory gravy. Served on buttery grilled sourdough and topped with a sweet cranberry aioli. For more information, click here

Andersonville & Uptown 

Ann Sather’s three locations… on Belmont , Granville, and Broadway…are serving up a Scandinavian-inspired Thanksgiving feast for $32.95 per person, including Chicken Vegetable Soup, Roasted Turkey and Dressing, Mashed Potatoes and Giblet Gravy, Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Cranberry Sauce, Assorted Homemade Breads, and Homemade Apple, Pumpkin, or Walnut Chocolate Chip Pie with Whipped Cream

While there are no reservations at Ann Sather’s,  dinner is available at 11:00 a.m. For more information, call the Belmont location (773-348-2378) open 7am–5pm; the Broadway location (773-305-0024) open 7am–3pm; and the Granville location (773-274-0557) 7am–3pm. 

Thankful for all of you!

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Planning for Thanksgiving dinner

Woman add a pumpkin filling puree into a baking dish for cooking pumpkin pie on a gray table with ingredients in the kitchen

Thanksgiving is almost a week later this year due to November 1st being on a Friday. That does give us more time to prepare—but don’t forget, Christmas will be coming even quicker! So it’d be wise to try and fit in a few Christmas preparations in the next few weeks as well. But don’t be stressed. The holidays are sometimes daunting, but with a little preparation and scheduling it can be a breeze. 

Choose your method. Before doing anything, we need a plan. Use whatever method works for you when it comes to scheduling, to-do lists, etc. I’m old school and use a yellow legal pad! But the Outlook calendar app would also work well, in my opinion. Having your schedule and notes with you on an iPad or phone can be really convenient. 

Make lists. Several lists need to be made. First is the menu. Include EVERYTHING! From drinks to appetizers to the main meal to desserts. Then indicate where you can use help. I don’t know of many cooks who really want to take on the entire dinner. I also don’t know very many guests that would not love to help! I’ve found a good way is to parcel out appetizers, drinks, snacks and desserts to others. Then the cook can concentrate on the main meal. However, keep in mind that if you have other guests bringing side dishes, they will need to be reheated. So however you do it, it needs to be done soon. 

Order your turkey. If you are having a fresh artisanal turkey, it should probably have already been ordered. But it’s not too late! If you have the freezer space, buy your frozen turkey this week too or at the latest next week. Don’t forget it can take several days to thaw a turkey safely in the refrigerator. Check online or on the package for times. This time of year, it’s great if you have that extra refrigerator in the basement to store extra stuff.

Buy your ingredients. This week is time to purchase all your non-perishables. This is also a great time to replace all your dried herbs and spices. You know most herbs and spices lose their potency in 6-8 months so now is the time to refresh. If you open the container and there’s no fragrance, there is also no taste. Stuffing mixes, stock, canned goods, soda, mixers, snacks, crackers, and pie fillings can all be purchased now to make your later shopping lists a little lighter. That’s why your master menu and shopping lists are so important.

Check your tools. Bring out all your serving pieces and utensils. Include everything you will need for preparation. Is your electric carving knife working? Is that old potato ricer still functioning? For Thanksgiving, we will be using a lot of things that only come out a couple times a year. Make sure you have everything you need for cooking and serving. Many department stores have all the things you need on sale so maybe some of those old pieces you’ve been using for 20+ years need to be replaced. 

Cook some dishes ahead of time. Look online for “make ahead” Thanksgiving dishes. There are many things that can be made ahead and frozen in the next 2 weeks. Dips like spinach artichoke can be made and frozen. Homemade pies are another easy make ahead and freeze. This is all about making and doing as much as you can before Thanksgiving week so you can make this the most stress free Thanksgiving ever!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago