This February weekend is supercharged with many different events celebrating Mardi Gras, Valentine’s Day, and more.  In fact, we may be hard pressed to enjoy them all but let’s give it our best shot!

First up, it’s the return of the Chicago Auto Show now through February 19^th at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the South Loop.  This year’s exhibits will display nearly 1,000 different vehicles ranging from domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks to electric cars, sport utility vehicles, experimental or concept cars, antique/collector cars, and many others.  In addition, numerous accessories and auto-related exhibits will be on hand as well along with a special themed day on Sunday — “Game Day” in celebration of the “Big Game.”  Just wear your favorite professional or college sports team apparel for a $5 discount on the admission fee.  Also, on Sunday (8 a.m.) is the Toyota Miles Per Hour Run where runners can experience the auto show with a unique one hour run spanning approximately 2.4 miles inside McCormick Place before it opens to the public.  Plus, special appearances take place every day as well.  It’s the largest car show in North America and not to be missed!

Secondly, you can welcome in the Year of the Dragon at Navy Pier’s Aon Grand Ballroom (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood this Saturday (1 p.m.-5 p.m.) at its Global Connections: Lunar New Year.  This year’s traditional Chinese festivities include lion dances, local performers and artists, traditional and contemporary music performed by Chicago’s leading musicians, food and drink from local restaurants and food vendors, and much more.  It’s a festive, interactive, and family-friendly event welcoming the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar!

Next, there’s the Swedish-inspired Fika Fest hosted by the Swedish American Museum (5211 N. Clark St.) in the Andersonville neighborhood where a variety of local businesses offer discounts and specials as well as two other events taking place.  Saturday is the Coffee and Hot Cocoa Crawl from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  At check in, attendees will receive a commemorative Andersonville mug and a route card to explore specialty offerings such as coffee, hot cocoa, bakery items, and more.  Then on Sunday, the Great Andersonville Puzzle Exchange takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. where attendees are encouraged to drop off puzzles during check in.  Plus, the first annual Puzzle Throw-Down will take place where pre-selected contestants will have to complete a secret puzzle the fastest to become the winner.

Bring your game face to the Big Game Watch Party this Sunday (5 p.m.-10 p.m.) at the Punch Bowl Social (310 N. Green St.) in the West Loop.  Besides watching the game and grabbing some game day swag, other highlights include enjoying exclusive drink specials, Big Game themed cocktails and shots, playing Big Game Bingo to win prizes, and much more!

Welcome to Super Bowl LVIII!where the NFC Champions the San Francisco 49ers will face off against the AFC Champions the Kansas City Chiefs, who are vying for their second consecutive Super Bowl title and third championship in five years, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas this Sunday.  Can’t afford a ticket to the actual game?  It will be televised on CBS at 5:30 p.m. (CT) with a halftime performance by Usher.

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Happy New Year (again) from Dean’s Team Chicago!  Chinese New Year arrives on Saturday, February 10, and in honor of the Year of the Dragon, we’re featuring Sunda, which, according to their website, “celebrates the beautiful blend of cultures found on the Sunda Shelf, a landmass, today submerged under shallow seas, that was once surrounded by the many different countries and cultures we celebrate at Sunda today like Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, China and more.”

The brainchild of restauranteur Billy Dec, CEO of Rockit Ranch Productions, Sunda has been described as a “A large, bustling pan-Asian funhouse, Sunda is a trendy place to be seen as much as it is a place to dine. The sprawling, chic dining room boasts high ceilings, an earthy color palette, polished bamboo, and carved stonework housing plenty of beautiful people.”

Sounds like a perfect place to spend New Year’s…right?

From February 1-29, Sunda is featuring Lunar New Year Specials, including CUMIN LAMB DUMPLINGS served with pickled mustard greens, ginger vinaigrette, and a chili crisp. Or their SEAFOOD LO MEIN…a crispy scallop and shrimp, pea pods, with carrots, water chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, and xo sauce. PAN SEARED RAINBOW TROUT  is served with mustard greens, salted black bean sauce, scallions, and radish. 

And for the year ahead, end the meal with LUCK AND WEALTH cookies and oranges, a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Asian culture. As LinkedIn relates, the bright, juicy citrus fruit carries a deep cultural significance.

That said, their regular dinner menu is full of tasty flavors, starting with a SPICY EDAMAME, with garlic butter and chili salt. Or, SEAWEED SALAD with wakame, local greens, tomatoes, cucumber, ponzu, and sesame. STREET CORN, Asian-style, has grilled corn, sambal coconut cream, kewpie mayo, toasted coconut, and mixed herbs.

Dinner entrees could include ANGRY HIRAME-flounder, shaved scallion salad, daikon sprouts, sesame, honey, and gochujang vinaigrette. YELLOWTAIL JALAPEÑO is served with mixed  cilantro, garlic, and yuzu ponzu. I’m all in for their TUNA TRUFFLE PIZZA with roti prata, black truffle, foie gras aioli, red onion, and truffle vinaigrette. PANCIT CANTON  has crispy pork belly, lap cheong, shrimp, carrots, cabbage,  bok choy, scallions, and cantonese sauce. LONGEVITY CRAB NOODLES  are lump crab, bathed in garlic butter, with toasted garlic and scallions. CHAP CHAE has sweet potato noodles, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, cabbage, scallions, tofu, and sesame.

Google reviews were ecstatic. 

“Dancing through the flavors of Asia!!!!” exclaimed one. “Sunda Chicago has a mission, and that’s to promote Asian cooking culture to the world their way. From the moment you enter, you’re taken away by the lively atmosphere. Lucky for us, we had NATE as our server, who literally took what we liked and made us our menu. Nate truly enjoyed picking our drinks, apps, entrees, and desserts. Run don’t walk to Sunda Chicago.”

“If you like sushi and Asian food, you’ve got to try out Sunda! They have happy hour 4pm to 6pm got some hand rolls and apps for $6 each. The pork belly was my favorite. It comes with garnish that is actually kinda delicious. There’s some kind of vinegar dressing in there.

The atmosphere was ambient with good music goi ng. Would definitely come here again.*

Sunda is located at 110 W. Illinois Street. They’re open for dinner Monday-Thursday, 4pm to 10pm, Friday & Saturday, 4pm to 11pm, and Sunday, 4pm to 10pm. Weekend Brunch is Saturday & Sunday, 11am to 2pm. For reservations, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

As we move towards the future, the world of interior design is undergoing a remarkable transformation. In the quest for innovative and inspiring spaces, designers are embracing new concepts and ideas that go beyond mere aesthetics. In this article, we will explore five key trends that are set to revolutionize interiors in 2024. From sustainable and eco-friendly spaces to the integration of technology and the resurgence of nature-inspired designs, these trends will shape the way we live, work, and interact with our surroundings. Join us on this journey as we uncover the exciting possibilities that lie ahead and discover how these trends will redefine the concept of interior design in the near future.

The Importance of Keeping Up with Design Trends

Welcome to the future! Interior design is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the trends is crucial for creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and future-proof. In this article, we’ll explore five key trends that are set to transform interiors in 2024. So buckle up and get ready to be inspired!

Trend 1: Sustainable and Eco-friendly Spaces

In an era where climate change is at the forefront of our concerns, sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a necessity. Designing eco-friendly spaces is not only better for the planet but also enhances the well-being of its occupants. Incorporating sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and organic fabrics is a fantastic way to reduce our ecological footprint while adding a unique touch to our interiors. Pairing these materials with energy-efficient lighting and appliances ensures that style and sustainability go hand in hand. And let’s not forget about recycling and upcycling! Giving new life to old furniture and decor items not only saves money but also adds a delightful touch of creativity to your space.

Trend 2: Technology Integration and Smart Homes

Welcome to the age of smart homes! With technology becoming an integral part of our daily lives, it’s only natural that it finds its way into our interiors. From voice-activated assistants to automated lighting systems, the possibilities are endless. Embracing technology in interior design means finding ways to seamlessly integrate gadgets and devices into our spaces without sacrificing style. Imagine waking up to the perfect lighting and temperature, all controlled through your smartphone. Creating connected and automated living spaces not only adds convenience but also a touch of futuristic charm that is sure to impress your friends.

Trend 3: Biophilic Design and Nature-inspired Interiors

Who says you can’t have nature at your doorstep? Biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection between humans and nature, is set to take the interior design world by storm. Bringing the outdoors inside through the use of plants, natural light, and organic textures creates a calming and rejuvenating environment. Imagine a living room filled with lush greenery and a wall of windows that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Incorporating natural elements and materials such as wood, stone, and water features brings a sense of tranquility to your space. Not only does biophilic design look stunning, but it also has proven benefits on our well-being, reducing stress and increasing productivity.

So there you have it, a glimpse into the future of interior design! By embracing sustainable practices, integrating technology, and bringing nature indoors, you’ll be well on your way to creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also environmentally conscious and future-proof. Get ready to design tomorrow today!

Trend 4: Flexibility and Multifunctionality in Furniture and Layouts

In the fast-paced world we live in, our needs and preferences can change in an instant. That’s why adaptable furniture is becoming a key trend in interior design. Whether it’s a sofa that can transform into a bed or a dining table that can extend to accommodate more guests, these pieces are designed to evolve with us. No more feeling stuck with furniture that no longer suits our lifestyle!

Space-saving Solutions for Small Living Areas

Living in compact spaces has become increasingly common, and interior design is adapting to these challenges. Space-saving solutions are now a top priority, with furniture designed to make the most of every inch. From folding tables and chairs to wall-mounted storage units, these clever designs help maximize living areas without sacrificing style or functionality.

Multi-purpose Rooms and Transformable Designs

Gone are the days of dedicating each room to a specific function. The trend of multi-purpose rooms and transformable designs is gaining momentum. Imagine a home office that can easily convert into a guest bedroom or a living room that can transform into a home theater. These versatile spaces allow us to make the most of our living areas, adapting to our changing needs and maximizing the functionality of each room.

Trend 5: Minimalism and Simplicity in Design

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, there is a growing desire for simplicity and clarity. Minimalism is making a comeback in interior design, with clean lines and clutter-free spaces taking center stage. By embracing simplicity, we create a calming and peaceful environment that allows us to focus on what truly matters.

Utilizing Neutral Color Palettes and Simple Patterns

When it comes to minimalist design, less is more. Neutral color palettes, such as whites, grays, and earth tones, create a serene and timeless atmosphere. Simple patterns, if used sparingly, can add depth and interest without overpowering the space. The key is to strike a balance between simplicity and visual appeal.

Maximizing Functionality with Minimalist Design Principles

Minimalist design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality too. By focusing on essential elements and eliminating unnecessary clutter, we can maximize the functionality of our spaces. Every piece serves a purpose, and every corner is utilized efficiently. It’s a design philosophy that promotes both practicality and beauty.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Interior Design

As interior design continues to evolve, it’s important for us to embrace these trends and adapt to the changing landscape. Flexibility, multifunctionality, minimalism, and simplicity are all key factors in creating spaces that cater to our fast-paced lives. By designing with these principles in mind, we can create homes that are not only stylish and practical but also reflect our ever-changing needs and desires. So let’s get ready to welcome the future of interior design with open arms!

As we conclude our exploration of the key trends that will transform interiors in 2024, it is clear that the future of interior design is incredibly promising. With a focus on sustainability, technology integration, biophilic design, flexibility, and minimalism, we are poised to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional, environmentally conscious, and conducive to our well-being. By embracing these trends, we have the opportunity to shape a future where our living spaces are truly reflective of our values, needs, and aspirations. So let us embark on this design journey, embracing the exciting possibilities that await us in the realm of interior design.

When you think of Chicago’s vast music history …jazz, blues, rock, pop …let’s not forget that the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, and 909 W. Armitage, has been serving world-class folk music for more than 60 years. 

The Beginning…a beat to remember 

The name ‘Old Town’ may refer to its founding rather than its current address, but the Old Town School of Folk Music was founded by folk musicians Frank Hamilton, Win Stracke, and Dawn Greening at 333 West North Avenue, offering guitar and banjo lessons in a communal teaching style and hosting performances by well-known folk musicians. 

Though she doesn’t have her own Wikipedia page, Greening was the one who planted the seedling that would grow into the Old Town School in her own living room, according to the Old Town website. Her son discussed his mother’s role on their website:

“Mother made people feel good—they called her the Mother of Old Town School, the Heart of Old Town School. She was a big woman with a big heart,” her son Lance remembered, in a blog on their website. “She said that the solution to the world’s problems is completely in love. If we can only get people to love each other, we’ll have no problems.” Although Dawn was not generally known as a musician herself, “she had a great appreciation for music,” Frank said. “She loved it….she had this ability to just draw in people.

Hamilton, who will turn 90 this year, taught guitar and banjo and served as unofficial dean. Several hundred prospective students, performers, and educators attended the first session, and famous singers and folklorists – without compensation – began performing during the Second Half. Among them were Pete Seeger, Odetta, Studs Terkel, Doc Watson, Mahalia Jackson, Bill Monroe, and The Weavers. Their website also mentions folk dancing and family sing-alongs. 

The formation and growth of the School, as Wikipedia tells it, coincided with the folk music boom of the 1960s and early 1970s. In Chicago, folk influence was scattered in Hyde Park (site of the Folk Festival), Oak Park (where Greening lived), and Old Town.

Boom Town, 1960’s and 70’s

The school  focused on offering instruction and performance, with many performing musicians acting as teachers and mentors. The School also proved a rich ground for collaboration. As Wikipedia sources tell it, the late 1960s were a peak of success as several musicians associated with the School rose to national prominence, including Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, Fred Holstein, John Prine, Steve Goodman, Bonnie Koloc, and Bob Gibson.

The late ’70s marked a decline in enrollment, concert attendance, and the beginning of a severe financial crisis that left the School on the brink of bankruptcy, according to their website. In 1982, the School’s staff and Board began a broad series of institutional changes that increased management effectiveness, placed a higher emphasis on fundraising, and expanded the scope of programming to include ethnic and traditional music from around the world.

Rebound 1990’s

With funds raised from a $10 million capital campaign, the School expanded its programs to the much larger Lincoln Avenue facility, and maintained its music education programs at the 909 W. Armitage building in Lincoln Park. The new Old Town School building was dedicated on September 18, 1998, with a concert byJoni Mitchell and Peter Yarrow.The new facility, according to their website, is “the finest in North America for the study and presentation of folk and traditional music forms, dramatically raised the School’s profile and garnered national praise and recognition.”

Today…Wiggleworms and more!

There’s a class for everyone at Old Town School, including banjo, dance, ukulele, voice, piano, and  ensembles.

Enrollment in Old Town School tuition programs averages close to 6,600 students per week, 2,700 of them children. The Lincoln Square and Lincoln Park facilities hold hundreds of classes and workshops in music, dance, and visual art for adults, children, and teens seven days per week, 48 weeks per year. Early childhood and middle school music programs thrive in suburban branches as well as in several community outreach programs throughout the city. The School presents performances by internationally known touring artists, the best of Chicago’s local artists, and its staff and students weekly. Most Wednesday nights feature free concerts through their popular World Music Wednesdays program

For babies and young children Wiggleworms classes are for kids, 12 months to 4 years, and caregivers together, setting the foundation for a lifelong love of music.

In-person classes are available in Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, Pilsen, Evanston, Western Springs, and Glen Ellyn.

Event Saturday night 

On Saturday, February , folk legend Bonnie Koloc headlines a sold-out evening of legendary folk music with Rose Snyder, Steve Eisen, Andy May and Al Ehrich, along with special guest Mark Dvorak. Tickets do sometimes become available in the days before the show. Add yourself to their email notification list by clicking here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago