Imagine this: You’ve had a stressful morning at a downtown office in Chicago. You desperately need a break! 

At the Seventeenth Church of Christ, Scientist, Chicago, 55 E. Wacker Drive, the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts, presented by Classical Music Chicago, offers a free musical lunch break, a balm to calm a frenzied soul, with solo and ensemble performances that showcase emerging classical musicians. 

Concerts take place every Wednesday from 12:15pm-1pm, and  are simulcast on classical music station 98.7 WFMT.

Who Was Dame Myra Hess?

As Wikipedia sources tell it, Dame Julia Myra Hess, DBE (25 February 1890 – 25 November 1965) was an English pianist best known for her performances of the works of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, and Brahms. 

According to Encylopedia.com, Hess started music lessons at age five; won the Ada Lewis scholarship at the Royal Academy of Music; made her official debut at age seven; had first major success with a performance of the Schumann piano concerto in Amsterdam; gave an American recital in New York City; made first recordings for Columbia USA, including her famous arrangement of J.S. Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” Hess was awarded the rank of Commander, Order of the British Empire (OBE) by King George V, the first instrumentalist to have received this distinction, all before her 50^th birthday.

She garnered greater fame during the Second World War when, with all concert halls blacked out at night to avoid being targeted by German bombers, she organized almost 2,000 lunchtime concerts, starting shortly after the war began and continuing even through The Blitz. The concerts were held at the National Gallery, in Trafalgar Square. 

Promising young performers were given the opportunity to appear in the concerts alongside established musicians, initially for no fee but after a while all the performers received a standard ‘expense fee’ of five guineas, no matter who they were, with the exception of Hess herself, who never took a fee for her appearances in the series. 

Performance conditions were difficult, according to Noontimeconcerts org. At times during the air raids, they had to relocate the concerts into a cramped basement, where the performers themselves often had to wear winter coats. A clarinetist once had to heat her instrument on a stove. The musicians survived many scares, including a bomb going off during a Beethoven String Quartet, but miraculously, despite a terrific explosion, no one was hurt. The authors also say that the performers never missed a beat. 

Myra Hess was knighted for her war contribution, and was awarded the title of Dame Commander, Order of the British Empire (CBE) by King George VI.

She passed away in 1965. This series of free concerts is named for her, and serves as her legacy to the world of music. 

Upcoming Concerts 

On Wednesday, April 23, the weekly concert features Brendon Elliott, violin and Ingrid Bick, piano. Their program includes selections from Sonata no. 2 in A major by Joseph Bologne (1745-1799), Nocturne, by Lili Boulanger (1893-1918), Mouvements perpétuels, Francis Poulenc (1899-1963); arranged by Jascha Heifetz, Golliwogg’s Cakewalk from Children’s Corner by Claude Debussy (1862-1918), Carmen Concert Fantasy, Op. 25, byPablo de Sarasate (1844-1908) -, Op. 25, and Méditation from Thaïs, by Jules Massenet (1842-1912). 

On April 30, the concert features Ukrainian pianist Dmytro Choni, performing Four Pieces, op. 119 by Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), including Intermezzo. Adagio, Intermezzo. Andantino un poco agitato, Intermezzo. Grazioso e giocoso, and Rhapsody. Allegro risoluto. He follows the Brahms pieces with four modern-era pieces by Valentin Silvestrov (b. 1937) – Four Pieces, op. 2, including Lullaby, Pastorale, Bagatelle, and Postludium. Choni completes his repertoire with Sonata No. 2 in G Minor, op. 22 Robert Schumann (1810-1856).

For more information on Classical Music Chicago and upcoming performances, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

I have been dealing with inflammation for many years—even before I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 41. What I didn’t realize is that low-level inflammation is a chronic condition that happens to all of us as we get older. There is even a medical term for it: “inflammaging”, combining the words aging and inflammation. 

While people like me with chronic or multiple medical conditions have higher inflammation levels, it still occurs in people with no acute illness or injury. Of course, not all inflammation is bad. We need it to help our bodies fight off infections and heal injuries. But as we age this cumulative chronic response actually becomes a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, depression and dementia. The rates of these are the by-products of a longer life span.

Until we understand how to stop inflammaging completely, here are a few ways to manage it:

Keep moving. Exercise has the greatest impact for reducing chronic conditions like heart disease. When older adults maintain regular exercise throughout their lives, they are more likely to delay or even prevent inflammaging. Work on your balance in particular. As we age, we often lose the strength in our core muscles and legs that make balance a problem. Even getting up from a chair can be problematic. This can contribute to falls and serious injuries. Try yoga or tai chi to keep those muscles strong. 

Change your diet. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may help reduce inflammation. A Mediterranean diet high in vegetables, legumes, nuts, seed, and fruits is also linked to lower levels of inflammation. Watch your waistline. The fat that accumulates around your waistline is known as visceral fat and it contains more inflammatory markers. So, reducing your midsection may help. 

Make time to relax. Stress will ramp up inflammation, especially if it is chronic. It is important to find ways to decompress. Whether it is removing stressful elements from your life, getting some therapy or just taking a long walk, it’s important to pay attention to your stress.

Prioritize quality time. Loneliness may also contribute to inflammation and can be a problem, especially with the elderly. Spend quality time with friends and family. This is not only good for your physical health but also mental health. 

Get enough sleep. Poor sleep is associated with higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers (and a host of other problems), so getting a good night’s sleep is important in more ways than one!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

As we begin another April weekend, the question on my mind is “who stole our spring?”  So, let’s get out there this weekend and take back our spring!

Returning to its annual spring stomping grounds at the McCormick Place South Building (2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the South Loop, the C2E2: Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo takes place this Saturday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) to bring you the largest pop culture convention in the country.  This expo has gathered some of the biggest names in the industry for live panels and compiled a guest lineup that includes John Boyega, Denise Richards, Molly Ringwald, Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and many others so you can meet and interact with your favorite celeb heroes.  In addition, over 400 unique exhibitors will be set up on the Show Floor; 500+ creators will be displaying their artwork in the Artist Alley; 25 authors will be in the Writers Block.  And don’t forget to discover exclusive, genuine C2E2 merchandise.  Plus, guests are encouraged to show off their most creative and exquisite cosplay outfit for a day of creativity and fun while celebrating pop culture!

Nothing brings back spring like a spring bar crawl!  This Saturday (12 p.m.-6 p.m.) the Old Crow Smokehouse (3506 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood is pulling out all the stops with their Taylor Swift Bar Crawl: Eras, Ex’s and Everything Taylor.  Chicago’s Swifties will be gathering together to hop and bop at the best bars in Wrigleyville.  A ticket includes admission to all participating bars, a free brunch buffet, gift cards to use on the crawl, specially created Taylor themed drink specials, all of Taylor Swift’s greatest music, giveaways, and more.  Swifties, don your best sparkling fringe dress along with your sweet friendship bracelet for the wildest bar crawl you’ll experience and bring back spring!

Immerse yourself in the world of tea at this year’s annual Chicago Tea Festival this Saturday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) at the Copernicus Center (5216 W. Lawrence Ave.) in the Jefferson Park neighborhood.  Attendees can explore the rich and diverse world of tea with hands-on experiences that include tea cupping sessions, educational workshops, tea classes, and presentations led by industry experts.  Expand your knowledge of tea by discovering new, rare, world-class teas, as well as learning about tea’s global heritage and some brewing techniques.  Enjoy a day of sipping, savoring, and soaking in a world of flavor and tradition!

With Easter just eight days away, come join Gallagher Way (3635 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood this Saturday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) to celebrate Easter at their 4^th annual Easter Egg Hunt.  Bring your family and pets to Hunt for Eggs (view Egg Hunt Rules at the link above) at either the 11 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. session.  Each hunt allows 100 kids to participate.  Plus, some eggs contain small toys or stickers while a golden egg offers a special gift.  There’s also an additional hunt that has been added at 2:15 p.m. with 125 tickets available due to popular demand!  This event also includes face painters, a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny, and interactive family activities in a fun atmosphere for all ages.  Best part, all participants receive a candy bag with tootsie rolls, hi-chews, and other chewy candies at the end of the event!

Even Brookfield Zoo (8400 31^st St.) is getting in on the action of finding spring with their Chicago Spring Fest this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.).  It’s a weekend filled with fun, fresh air, and unforgettable experiences as guests enjoy live performances on the East Mall; shop from art vendors at the Art Fair; experience Zoo Chats; and savor seasonal food and drinks as well as welcoming a newcomer The Original Rainbow Cone® to Brookfield Zoo this summer, and much more!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

With Easter and Passover coming up fast, Dean’s Team Chicago has pulled together some Chicago favorites as your family comes together for the holidays. 

Easter 

Andersonville’s Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar, 5553 N. Clark Street, is serving a $54-per-person, three-course Pre Fix Menu that includes unlimited non alcoholic brunch beverages (coffee, tea, soda & juice). Begin with starters like Nutella Croissants, Smoked Salmon & Mini Bagels, or Baby Lambchops, followed by your choice  of Brioche French Toast, Lobster Cake Benedict, Shrimp & Grits, Herbed Goat Cheese & Roasted Tomato Omelet, or Steak & Eggs. All are served with breakfast potatoes and fruit.  Finish off your Easter celebration with a dessert of Grand Marnier Crème Brulee or Chocolate Pots de Crème. Their $20 Children’s Package includes unlimited juice, milk, chocolate milk, soda, scrambled eggs, french toast & fruit. For reservations, click here. 

At Streeterville’s Somerset,  1112 N.  State Street, in the Viceroy Hotel, an $89.00-per- person prepaid brunch buffet begins at 11am with an Egg Hunt in the Viceroy lobby, and includes an Easter Bunny Selfie Station. You and your family can indulge in a fresh Fruit Salad Bar, a Bagels and Toast Station with an array of spreads, and comforting classics like fluffy scrambled eggs, Fried Chicken and Waffle, spiced Shakshuka (spiced tomato sauce, baked eggs, feta) and a savory Quiche Florentine, with mozzarella, sundried tomato, spinach, basil. For a lighter touch, enjoy their Yogurt & Granola Bar with Greek yogurt, acai yogurt, and blueberry granola. Their Pastry Station offers a decadent selection of breakfast pastries, cupcakes, carrot cake, mini cheesecakes, and cookies. Each guest (21+) will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco to add a little sparkle to the celebration. Children’s Buffet is $25 per child. For reservations, click here. 

At Lincoln Park ‘s Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!, 2024 N.  Halsted Street,  Brunch will be served 9am– 3pm, and Easter Dinner from 3pm – 9pm. The longtime Lettuce Entertain You staple gives you Easter with a Spanish spread, as their website says, featuring brunch tapas such as Avocado Toast, Brunch Patatas and Breakfast Paella served alongside brunch cocktails like the Ba-Ba-Bellini and Spanish Sangria Spritz. Dinner guests enjoy Goat Cheese Baked in Tomato Sauce, Grilled Hanger Steak, Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad and more, all made to share with friends.  For reservations, click here. 

Passover

At the Gold Coast’s Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, 60 E. Grand Avenue. For $74.95 per person and $34.95 per child 12 and under, enjoy traditional favorites like Gefilte Fish with red beet horseradish, Chopped Liver, Suzy Friedman’s Vegetarian Chopped Liver with bibb lettuce salad, and Matzo Ball Soup. For the main course, choose from Herb Roasted Chicken, Braised Short Rib with red wine bordelaise, or Wild Alaskan Halibut en Papillote, served with Ginger Glazed Carrots and Potato Pancakes. End your meal with a slice of Flourless Chocolate Cake or Key Lime Pie. Dinner reservations are available Saturday, April 12, from 4pm – 9:30pm and Sunday, April 13 from 4pm – 9pm. For reservations, click here. 

In the South Loop,  Aba, 302 N Green Street, 3rd Floor , as Secret Chicago notes, their menu features rare Mediterranean wines and dine-in specials, including Spring Greens Salad with shaved asparagus, Slow-Braised Beef Brisket with spiced mandarin sauce, and Coconut and Honey Tart with Meyer lemon. Dinner is available Saturday, April 12th – Sunday, April 20^th, for dine-in and carryout. For reservations, click here. 

Lakeview’s The Bagel Restaurant and Deli, 3107 N Broadway, is a quintessential stop when celebrating Passover in Chicago, as Secret Chicago notes, the dine-in menu features Jewish holiday staples, including Chopped Liver, Gefilte Fish, Matzo Ball Soup, Carrot–Sweet Potato and Prune Tzimmes, along with Green Beans & Onions Almondine, Oven-Baked Matzoh Dressing and a choice of chicken, brisket, whitefish, and sweet-and-sour meatballs.  They’ll be serving  Saturday, April 12 – Sunday, April 13, first -come, first served. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more home buyers and homeowners are turning their attention to eco-friendly homes. Embracing sustainability not only benefits the planet but can also enhance your living space and save you money in the long run. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding and embracing eco-friendly homes.

Understanding Eco-Friendly Homes

An eco-friendly home is designed and built with an emphasis on sustainability. This involves using materials, technologies, and practices that minimize environmental impact. These homes utilize resources efficiently, promote energy conservation, and often come with features that help reduce the overall carbon footprint.

Key Features of Eco-Friendly Homes

Energy Efficiency: One of the most significant aspects of eco-friendly homes is their energy-efficient design. Features such as high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows, and ENERGY STAR rated appliances can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Sustainable Materials: Eco-friendly homes often incorporate sustainable building materials. This may include bamboo flooring, recycled steel, and low VOC paints, all of which contribute to a healthier living environment.

Renewable Energy Sources: Many eco-friendly homes harness renewable energy, such as solar panels or wind turbines. These installations can significantly decrease dependence on fossil fuels and reduce electricity costs over time.

Water Conservation: Effective water management systems, including low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and grey water recycling, are common in eco-friendly designs. These features help to conserve water and lessen the strain on local water supplies.

Smart Home Technology: Innovations in smart technology can optimize energy usage by allowing homeowners to control heating, cooling, and lighting systems with ease. Programmable thermostats and smart meters provide insights into energy consumption, helping to identify areas for improvement.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Homes

Investing in an eco-friendly home presents numerous advantages:

Lower Utility Bills: With energy-efficient systems and renewable resources, homeowners can enjoy reduced utility bills, providing significant savings over time.

Increased Property Value: The demand for eco-friendly homes has surged in recent years, often resulting in higher property values. Potential buyers are becoming more environmentally conscious, making these homes a smart investment.

Healthier Living Environment: Eco-friendly homes typically use non-toxic materials and aim to improve air quality. This creates a healthier living space for families, especially those with allergies or sensitivities.

Reduced Environmental Impact: Choosing an eco-friendly home contributes to a sustainable future. By minimizing energy consumption and utilizing renewable resources, homeowners play an essential role in reducing carbon emissions and conserving the planet’s resources.

Making the Switch

For existing homeowners, transitioning to a more eco-friendly home doesn’t have to be a complete overhaul. Simple steps can make a significant difference. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, installing a programmable thermostat, and implementing water-saving fixtures are manageable and impactful changes.

For prospective homebuyers, prioritizing eco-friendly features during your search can lead to a future-proof investment. Consider working with a real estate agent knowledgeable about sustainable homes and ask about green certifications when evaluating properties.

Bottom-line

Eco-friendly homes represent a commitment to sustainability, reduced utility costs, and improved health. Whether you’re a homeowner or a potential buyer, embracing these principles can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life. The investment pays off not just in terms of savings but also in creating a better world for future generations.