Summer Solstice Celebrates Local Art and Spirit 

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Summer Solstice Celebrates Local Art and Spirit 

June 21 is the longest day of the year, and the perfect night for the Beverly Area Arts Alliance (The Alliance) to celebrate the spirit, inspiration and interaction of the vibrant local arts community at the Uprising Summer Solstice, 5 to 10 p.m.  

The onset of sizzling summer days and languid summer nights has inspired an event that mixes a quirky variety of hands-on arts activities and music in an outdoor setting 99th and Walden Parkway with the opening reception for the Prairie Gothic art exhibit at the Joplin Marley Co-Creative Space, 9911 S. Walden Pkwy. 

Family friendly art “projects” invite people to create something fun, then take it home. Projects include making flower crowns, doing screen printing with members of the Spudnik Press cooperative and creating unique personalized images of the community on wood.  

Summer’s spirit will be captured in festival hair creations by stylists from Tranquility Salon, Tarot card readings and a bonfire.  

Fans of the Alliance Uprising events can expect to find hand-crafted items from a number of vendors, as well as merchandise from Fair Trade Chicago.  The 99th and Walden shops will also be open.  Available for purchase will be tote bags featuring the Summer Solstice poster graphic created by Chris Wilczak and screen-printed by Spudnik Press.  

The highlight of the event is the opening of Prairie Gothic, a group show featuring works by artists from across Chicago: Kass Copeland, John Walker, Robin Power, Jake Saunders, Larry Tuckman and Kevin Blake, that promises “the dark side of the prairie and the mysteries of the midway will be revealed to the more curious among you.” Following the Summer Solstice, viewings can be scheduled with exhibit curator Sal Campbell, sal@beverlyarts.org. The exhibit closes with a reception Sat., July 20, 7 to 10 p.m. 

Summer Solstice food vendors include Ellie’s Café. Music will be supplied by DJ Ruta Spencer and pop-up musicians.  

The Alliance was formed in 2014 to coordinate art-focused events and projects fostering collaboration between artists and the community. The Alliance presents the Beverly Art Walk, The Frunchroom reading series, art exhibits and music events. Learn more at beverlyarts.org.  

 

 

That’s Hot Fashion Boutique

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By Kristin Boza 

Approaching its one-year anniversary in October, That’s Hot Fashion, 9925 S. Wood St., offers fashionable clothing and accessories sure to become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe.  

Jointly owned by the mother-daughter team of Selena Griggs and Selena Griggs, the pair is dedicated to offering styling advice to each customer. Previously, That’s Hot Fashion was located in River Oaks Mall, but the Griggs’ felt destined to open a boutique in Beverly/Morgan Park.  

In an interview with Griggs, the mother, she said, “Beverly has always been a target for us. I love the community — the people, the homes, the community feel — it’s nice to see people walking past the store with their families and pets. It’s just a great place to be.”  

That’s Hot Fashion stocks contemporary casual wear for women in both regular and plus sizes. “We carry the trendy fashions of today, including tops in the popular asymmetrical cut,” Griggs said. “We try to suit everyone’s fashion needs by carrying clothes that fit into daily life.”  

Griggs invented the What A Scarf, a multi-functional winter scarf made from fleece that is fastened with Velcro at the back of the neck, allowing it to be worn as a face mask, ear muff or around the neck. The What A Scarf is available in kids and adult sizes with a variety of pattern options.  

The store also carries a variety of jewelry accessories made from denim, as well as the trendy customized sweatshirt that includes front cut-outs so a cute tank top can peek through underneath. 

The Griggs devote a lot of energy to ensuring their customers have a great experience. “Our customers really enjoy coming into our boutique; the atmosphere is open and it’s a truly loving place to be in,” she said. 

That’s Hot Fashion is open Tues. through Sat., and by appointment only on Sun. and Mon. Visit them at Facebook.com/ThatsHotFashion or call 708-510-8791. 

Covenant Closet Offers Free Clothing Swap

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By Kristin Boza 

Kids grow fast and clothes aren’t cheap. Not only that, the piles of outgrown clothes have a tendency to quickly take over closets and basement storage bins. Beverly Covenant Church, 10545 S. Claremont, is offering a free solution to every member of the Beverly/Morgan Park community through its Covenant Closet initiative. On the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon, anyone and everyone is invited to drop off their gently used clothes and/or shop the closet for the clothing they need. Depending on donations, there is clothing available in newborn sizes all the way up to adult sizes.  

Janet Borggren, chairperson of Beverly Covenant Church, helps church volunteers organize the closet and bring awareness to its existence. The clothing swap has been around for decades, informally through the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) program that meets at the church. Last year, the group decided to expand the offering to anyone in the community as a way to recycle and reuse clothing while also saving money. 

“Literally everyone is welcome to shop the Covenant Closet. I envision this as a modern version of hand-me-downs; everyone still needs the clothes, but may not have the connections to share with other families. We’re able to make those connections,” Borggren said. “We operate under the idea that people should ‘take what you need, give what you can.’ We want to turn the Closet into something that the community can use.” 

Borggren shared the story of one family that used the Closet through the MOPS program. “Beth Nelson is a church member, former MOPS mom and mother of three daughters. While sorting clothing donations one day, she came across an old favorite! It was a dress she had taken from the Closet when her youngest daughter, Emily, was a toddler. When Emily outgrew the outfit, Beth donated it back. It had obviously been used by at least one other family and was back for another round. The dress was still in great shape, as all of its former owners outgrew it well before it was worn out.” 

The Covenant Closet is looking to build momentum to maintain a wide variety of clothing for all ages. It will be open Sat., Sept. 15, 9 a.m. to noon. Stay up to date on the closet by visiting their Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/BeverlyCovenant, or calling the church office, 773-445-4319

Commercial Property at 95th and Western to be Renovated

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The commercial center at the southeast corner of 95th and Western Avenue will be redeveloped into a $7 million reconfiguration project starting this year. Under this plan, the now vacant building at 2347-2353 W. 95th St. will be demolished. The existing building, vacant since the departure of Potbelly Sandwich Works, will be a smaller, newly constructed commercial building that will house a mix of new and existing tenants including a dental clinic, an upscale salon, and other health related users.  

Following the demolition of the corner building, the parking lot will be reconfigured allowing for 18 additional spaces as well as a new access point from 95th Street. This construction is expected to create approximately 40 jobs.  

The development is currently leased at near capacity. Secured tenants include Addus Healthcare, Aspen Dental, AT&T and Sola Salon with two small retail spaces currently available.  A letter of intent is currently signed with a sandwich shop for one of the two available locations. 

“The modifications that will be made to the existing building on the corner of 95th and Western will help to ensure an easier access to the businesses located within the development, as well as the addition of much-needed parking spaces,” said 19th Ward Ald. Matt O’Shea. “It will also bring in well-recognized businesses that have a strong existing customer base for our residents to enjoy. My office looks forward to working with the developer and the tenants to ensure their success moving forward.”  

The project is expected to be completed in spring or sooner.  

“The 95th Street Business Association is looking forward to the implementation of the new design for the building at 95th and Western,” said Erin Ross, president, 95th Street Business Association.  “The changes will make this parcel an integral part of our business district on 95th Street.” 

“We are happy to be able to reposition the asset in a strong retail corridor with nationally recognized tenants,” said Steve Panko of Key Development Partners. “This corner will always be desirable.” 

For leasing information, contact Pam Miszkowicz or Lynn Bracket, CBRE, 630-573-7000. For more information on 95th Street development, contact the 19th Ward office, www.the19thward.com or 773.238.8766. 

Beauty in Beverly: Newest Neighborhood Spa Sets Grand Opening 

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Color Me Beauty Bar, 1810½ W. 99th St., owners Kimberly Buford and Dr. Angelique Jackson will host the shop’s grand opening Sun., June 3, 2 to 6 p.m.   

Offering customers a wide range of organic fruit- and plant-based beauty treatments and products, Color Me Beauty Bar is a nail and skin care boutique that will “color” you with lavish beauty experiences using products that are natural, toxin-free, cruelty-free and environmentally friendly. They look forward to becoming a 100% vegan-operated salon soon. 

As African-American female business owners, Buford and Jackson are excited to be not just a new female-owned business but a new minority-owned business as well. They look forward to serving members of the local community and throughout Chicagoland. 

“When I began my research for what location in the city that I wanted our business to be, Beverly stood out to me because residents here support the businesses in their area,” Buford said. “I am very happy to see our vision become a reality in our new space.” 

With a 22-year career as a nail technician, Buford’s experience spans across several salons including Bliss spa in the W Hotel downtown, Shine salon, Kimberly Coleman Salon and Paris Beauty Salon. She was trained at Dudley’s Beauty College on the South Side. 

Dr. Jackson’s background includes a degree in education. Throughout her 20-year career, she has always had entrepreneurial endeavors that were linked to the beauty industry. “I have a vision of equipping young women with all the tools they need to succeed in life,” Dr. Jackson said. “Color Me Beauty Bar is allowing me to empower young women via mind, body and spirit.”  

Beauty and similar visions have brought Buford and Jackson together to create Color Me Beauty Bar. They look forward to meeting community residents on June 3. For information or to book a service at the salon, email colormebb@gmail.com.  

Act of Kindness Welcomes New Neighbors

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By Kristin Boza

Sometimes, one simple act can create a ripple of goodwill throughout a community. One act of kindness by a local business truly made the day of one Beverly/Morgan Park mom and demonstrates the generosity that our neighborhood is known for.

Joanne Carstensen, her husband, Alex, and two-year-old daughter, Daphne, moved to Beverly/Morgan Park from Lakeview last October. As the young family settled into their new neighborhood, a pregnant Carstensen was also dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis. She shared a poignant story on the ‘Moms of Beverly’ Facebook page, where she wrote about the diagnosis she received during her first trimester of pregnancy, and the kindness of Capsule, a women’s clothing and accessories boutique at 9915 S. Walden Pkwy.

As Carstensen wrote on Facebook, “… on a day I was feeling well, my mom and I went to Capsule … My mother put a purse on hold, but I got incredibly sick and had to be hospitalized that week. My mom informed Maura [Conine, owner of Capsule] to stop holding it for us, as I would be unable to return to make a final decision. After hearing about my health, Maura and the Capsule family surprised me by dropping off a box with the beautiful purse wrapped up inside and an extremely kind card wishing my family good health and happiness for 2018. This act of kindness and generosity is one my family and I will never forget.”

When she found out about her second pregnancy, Carstensen was ecstatic, but wary when she felt a lump in her breast in June 2017. Ultimately, her doctor ordered an ultrasound and a biopsy, confirming a breast cancer diagnosis on Carstensen’s 32nd birthday in July.

Carstensen underwent a sentinel node biopsy, a lumpectomy, and four rounds of chemotherapy, the last of which was on Dec. 14, 2017, approximately one month before she was due to give birth to a boy.

On Jan. 25, 2018, Theodore Francis Carstensen was born, and his birth thrilled his entire family, all of whom have pitched in to help in any way they could. Recently, Carstensen began seven weeks of radiation. Amazingly, she was able to breastfeed baby Theo.

“I’ve learned a lot through this process, but one of the most surprising things is just how amazing a woman’s body is in adjusting to her baby’s needs,” Carstensen said. “The side effects from radiation won’t kick in for a couple of weeks, so right now the hardest part is just coming to terms with leaving my babies every day. But knowing that they are in amazing hands has helped, including my mom, mother-in-law, and nanny Katrina.”

As she fights breast cancer, Carstensen looks forward to the day when her family can get out and enjoy the neighborhood. “We were blown away by the generosity of Maura and the Capsule team, but also the kind words sent from others in the area after I posted on the ‘Moms of Beverly’ page. Our neighbors have been extremely welcoming,” she said.

“Joanne’s story resonated with me so deeply and immediately,” Conine said. “That someone so young and vibrant, a mother expecting her second baby, had to deal with something so scary and exhausting.”

Conine and another store employee, Natalie Baldacci, wanted to do something to brighten Carstensen’s day, hoping to ease her stress and worry for at least a moment. Conine called the purse designer, Primecut, and had a special-made bag, which was shipped within a week. “I wanted Joanne to understand that she is part of a wonderful community with people that are there for each other, especially during hard times,” Conine said.

 

 

Cookie Crawl & Christkindl Market

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Beverly Area Planning Association (BAPA) and Olivia’s Garden are teaming up for a family-friendly weekend of holiday events: BAPA’s 2nd Annual Holiday Cookie Crawl and Olivia’s new Christkindl Market, 10730 S. Western, Chicago. The market will be held Sat., Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Both days, the market will feature dozens of vendors offering a variety of unique gifts, decorations, candy, bread, soaps, spices, art work, books and more, as well as food trucks.

On Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to noon, shoppers are encouraged to bring the children to visit with Santa. Maplewood Photography will be taking photos for $15, or families can bring their own cameras and take pictures. On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., participants who purchased cookie tins in advance for BAPA’s Cookie Crawl will start their sweet odyssey, taking time to shop at the market before heading out to collect their cookies at participating businesses along Western Avenue. Cookie tins are sold out and will not be available on the day of the event.

Don’t miss student dancers performing a scene from The Nutcracker Sat., Dec. 9, starting at 4:30 p.m. in the window at Dance Gallery, 10628 S. Western.

On Sun., Dec. 10, Christkindl Market visitors can take a break from shopping to enjoy live music and a beverage along with bite to eat from food trucks. Café style seating will be available.

Market vendors include Kindred Knots, Poore House Crafts, Xzavier’s Sweet Shoppe, Coco’s Tamales, Bungalow Bias Chicago, Rotten Tooth Company, Oliver Scott Interiors, Que Sera Sarah, Our Secret Garden, A Touch of Whimsy, Fairy Farmacy, Harrison and James Publishing, Breadman Baking Company, Ivy Rose Jewelry, No I’m Not Amish, Katesplosion, Salty Dog Seasonings, Cera & Lore, and Gotta Be Crepes. Wally’s Waffles will be at the market on Saturday and Vintrendi Wine and Loi designs will be at the market on Sunday.

Support BAPA Business Members this Holiday Season

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By Kristin Boza

There’s no shortage of shops, restaurants, and service businesses in Beverly/Morgan Park. Here’s the ultimate BAPA business member gift guide for your holiday shopping. During the holidays and all year, support the businesses that support our community.

Organize the Perfect Holiday Party

Call 4 Star Windy City DJs at 708-254-0608 for info on bringing holiday music to your party.

Calabria Imports, 1905 W. 103rd St., has all the pasta you need – and lots more — to feed a large, hungry crowd. They also offer sandwiches, sides, desserts, bread and salads. www.Calabria-Imports.com.

Before the party, spruce up your home with a wide selection of quality paint and beautiful wallpapers from Calumet Paint & Wallpaper, 12120 S. Western. Knowledgeable and helpful staff can direct you to the best options.

County Fair Foods, 10800 S. Western is the destination for every ingredient you’ll need if you’re cooking this holiday season. Fresh produce, on-site butcher, and an extensive deli with hot takeaway items will ensure every dish is delectable.

DiCola’s Seafood, 10754 S. Western Ave.:  If you’re hosting a Feast of the Seven Fishes this Christmas Eve, check out the selection of fresh seafood at DiCola’s. Salmon, scallops, catfish and trout are just a few of the many selections available. DiCola’s also offers side dishes and salads to accompany the meal.

Ellie’s Cafe, 10701 S. Hale Ave., offers a catering menu that rivals any home-cooked meal: Turkey, ham, duck and goose as well as numerous potato and vegetable dish options. They even offer brunch catering, perfect for mid-day parties. www.ElliesCafe.com.

Fox’s Beverly Pub, 9956 S. Western, is perfect for catering a more casual get-together. From pizza to burgers to pasta, there’s a hot meal ready to please everyone at your party. www.FoxsRestaurant.com.

Milano’s Pizza, 10945 S. Western, delivers Chicago-style crispy thin crust pizza that’s perfect for the kids, and deep dish for hungry adults.

Before the big party, give a call to Peace of Mind Professional Organizing to help you declutter your space — for good. Forget shoving your stuff in a closet before guests arrive; get organized the right way! 708-790-1940.

Design the perfect holiday invitation or card with the help from the designers and printers at Solution 3 Graphics, 10547 S. Western. The business offers numerous printed products and services for personal use and businesses. www.Solution3Graphics.com.

Deck the halls — and your table — with beautiful fresh flowers and centerpieces, including poinsettias, from Steuber Florist and Greenhouse, 2654 W. 111th St. www.SteuberFlorist.com.

Get there early to avoid the lines the famous cheese ball at Swanson’s Deli, 2414 W. 103rd St. While you’re there, stock up on soup, sandwiches and salads for nights when you just don’t feel like cooking. www.SwansonsBeverlyDeli.com.

The Geranium Guild creates unique, customized floral arrangements for weddings, parties and any other special occasion. From centerpieces to bouquets, the possibilities are endless. www.TheBlossomBoys.com.

Whether you’re looking for a slice to keep the kids happy while you clean the house before the party, or an entire pie (or more) to feed a hungry group at your event, Waldo Cooney’s, 2410 W. 111th St.:  can accommodate. Order online at www.WaldoCooneysPizza.com.

Wondering what wine to pair with your meal? Check out Silvia Franco’s What Vino? Beginner Wine Blog for advice on pairings, or even to get more information on the perfect hostess gift. www.WhatVino.com.

Date Night Dinner and Drinks

Gather at Barney Callaghan’s Pub, 10618 S. Western, for a pint of Guinness or a Bloody Mary. Enjoy live music and various sporting events – both college and pro. Party rooms available. www.BarneyCallaghans.com.

For over 20 years, Cork and Kerry Tavern, 10614 S. Western, has been a favorite Irish pub. They boast over 20 beers on tap and 40 different bottled or canned beers. Party rooms available. www.CorkAndKerry.com.

Franconello’s, 10222 S. Western, serves authentic Italian food in a cozy atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Private party accommodations. www.FranconelloChicago.com.

Open Outcry Brewing Company, 10934 S. Western, the newest neighborhood brewery, serves delectable brews and other beverages and Chef Cesar’s signature wood-fired pizza along with new menu items. www.OpenOutcryBrewing.com.

Daytime Outings with Friends and Family

Bridgeport Coffee, 9135 S. Western, imports its beans direct from their sources around the world, then roasts them on a fluid bed, ensuring not a single bean is burned. Stop in for coffee and treats!

A tried and true favorite, Dunkin’ Donuts, 10401 S. Western, serves hot coffee, warm donuts and breakfast sandwiches. Great place to bring the kids while the adults ingest some caffeine.

For the best pancakes on the South Side, take a trip to the Original Pancake House, 10437 S. Western. It’s a staple for Sunday mornings!

For over 75 years, Top Notch Beef Burgers, 2116 W. 95th St., has been family favorite! The burger is consistently ranked among the top in Chicago. Don’t skip the fries and shakes.

Shops Catering to Everyone on Your List

Beverly Hills MarketPlace, 1809 W. 95th St., offers new and antique home furnishings, and many items crafted by local artisans. Visit to find for unique gifts.

Vinyl has made a comeback! Rebuild your album collection at Beverly Records, 11612 S. Western. www.BeverlyRecords.com.

Check out the new, large space including a vast collection of new and used books at Bookie’s, 10324 S. Western. Can’t find an item? Bookie’s can order it for you with fast delivery. Drop off your gently used books for a discount on your next purchase. www.BookiesChicago.com.

Open for 17 years, family-owned Island Furs, 1827 W. 103rd St., sells fur, leather and shearling coats, and provides cleaning, repair and storage. www.IslandFurs.com.

Since 1910, Klees Golf Shop, 10436 S. Western, has been a family-owned business serving the needs of all golfers. Stop in to see what’s new or visit www.KleesGolf.com.

For the most unique home furnishings and help with interior design, visit RMH Interiors, 1802 W. 103rd St. Get the home you dream of! www.RMHInteriors.com.

Perfect for the walker or runner in your life, stop into Running Excels, 10328 S. Western Ave., for shoes, clothing, and gear. www.RunningExcels.com.

Sheffner’s Jewelers, 2408 W. 111th St, is the place to find the perfect piece of jewelry. They also offer custom-designed pieces, including engagement rings, and are committed to ethical practices. www.Sheffners.com.

The Quilter’s Trunk, 10352. S. Western Ave.: For the quilter or sewing enthusiast, The Quilter’s Trunk offers yards of unique fabric and everything you need to put it all together. Check out TheQuiltersTrunk.com for more information.

Unique Gifts

Gifts of experience are taking center stage this holiday season. Consider signing up your little dancer for ballet, jazz, tap, and many other classes at Dance Gallery, 10628 S. Western. Classes for adults also available. www.DanceGalleryChicago.com.

Relax and be well at Erin Kelly Massage Therapy & Yoga. Kelly is a licensed massage therapist and heart-centered yoga practitioner. 773-569-1015.

A full-service Aveda salon, Everything’s Relative, 10548 S. Western, is a great place to get your loved one a gift card for a day of beauty www.EverythingsRelativeSalon.

Nails, facials, massage, hair styling and coloring can be found all under one roof at Relaxation Station Salon and Spa, 10655 S. Hale. 773-233-3441.

Get healthy in the new year with the selection of supplements, food, and other organic products at Southtown Health Foods, 2100 W. 95th St. www.SouthtownHealthFoods.com.

Thanks to the many other BAPA Business Members who offer professional services, auto care, medical and dental services, and so much more. When shopping, please choose the businesses who so generously support BAPA and our community. Find a directory of BAPA businesses at www.bapa.org.