Aerial shot of Edgewater Beach, 1947

Prior to the 1951-54 extension of Lake Shore Drive from Foster to Hollywood.

Pressure Billiards & Cafe

One of today's "side-deals" on Groupon features Pressure Billiards and Cafe located at 6318 N Clark. For $15 you get $30 worth of billiards, food and drink - a 50% savings for the mathematically challenged. While we have never personally been to Pressure Billiards, this may just be the ideal reason to check it out. Click here to view this Groupon.

If anyone has frequented Pressure, please let us know about your experience in the comments.

Meet your neighbors

TheNeighborhoodFirst.org has rescheduled the August "Meet Your Neighbors" dinner. "Meet-Your-Neighbors Dinners are designed to foster community-building and networking among residents and neighbors. It is hoped that through the discussions and interactions over dinner, relationships will be established that ultimately lead to an improved sense of community." The next event will be held tomorrow at St Andrews Inn (5938 N Broadway) - August 31th at 7PM. You can RSVP here on Facebook or email dan@theneighborhoodfirst.org

Woman struck and killed by Red Line train at Berwyn

A woman died around 1:00 PM today when she was hit by a Red Line train at the Berwyn L stop. I'm told there were quite a few emergency vehicles in the area. Service was halted between Wilson and Thorndale after the unfortunate incident, but was restored about 3:05 PM.

Chicago Tribune alert

Photo from Emily Irelan's Photostream on Flickr

More violence near Thorndale and Broadway

A reader emailed me yesterday afternoon to report the following incident....

As I was walking to Cheetah Gym today I saw the police and an ambulance in front of the new condos at Broadway and Ardmore. As I passed by, I saw a man on the ground and a pool of blood next to him. Another bystander told me there were two attackers who fled on foot. Lots of people must have witnessed this, since Broadway Cellars' outdoor seating was busy this afternoon.

ABC7 coverage of beach house dedication

Or, you can read the story here.

Found bird

If anyone has recently lost a parakeet in the neighborhood, please check out this Craigslist posting. A resident found a parakeet yesterday near Hollywood & Broadway.

Edgewater man dies riding bike on expressway

From CBS2Chicago:
Man Struck, Killed While Riding Bike On Dan Ryan
Unknown Why Christopher Hippchen Was Riding Bicycle On Expressway

An unfortunate decision to ride a bicycle down the Dan Ryan Expressway cost an Edgewater neighborhood man his life.

Emergency crews responded around 9:10 p.m. to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in the northbound lanes of the Dan Ryan Expressway near Garfield Boulevard, an Illinois State Police District Chicago trooper said.

Christopher Hippchen, 28, of the 5200 block of North Sheridan Road, was dead on the scene, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner's office.

Hippchen was apparently riding a bicycle, according to the trooper, who said State Police have not determined why the person was riding a bike on the expressway.

Hippchen was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, sources said. He was struck by a black Jeep sport-utility vehicle, which had to be towed from the scene.

Alcohol does not appear to be involved, sources said.

All northbound lanes were reopened by 12:20 a.m., a state trooper said.

The view from Hollywood (Osterman) Beach this afternoon

A friend of ours got this great shot today.

Tribune covers Vincent opening

The Chicago Tribune's foodie Phil Vettel had a short writeup (click here) regarding the opening of Vincent in the former La Tache space. Not much was mentioned that we or other sources have yet to mention, except for the unveiling of the restaurants website (which also includes a menu): www.vincentchicago.com.

Potbelly - opening TUESDAY

Thanks to one reader who shared this "sneak peak" photo of Potbelly's interior. Again, they are incorporating Erickson Jewelers in the space. And thanks to another reader who spoke with a Potbelly employee who stated they will be open for business on Tuesday.

Francesca's Customer Appreciation

Francesca's (1039 W Bryn Mawr) is offering $10 off lunch and $15 off dinner as part of their Customer Appreciation event. Simply click the image above, print, and bring it with you the next time you dine thru September 30th. What a great way to support a local business and save a few bucks!

EHS Press Release: Lawsuit Dropped

Lawsuit Against Edgewater Historical Society Dropped

On Monday, August 23, 2010, the Plaintiff in the lawsuit against the Edgewater Historical Society withdrew the litigation that had accused EHS and four board members of interfering with the sale of a home (at 6018 N. Kenmore Ave.) a property that had been “orange” rated by the City of Chicago, and which EHS believes to be historically and architecturally significant. [Brigitta Riedel, Trustee of the Walter and Maria Kramer Living Trust, dated April, 1990 v. Edgewater Historical Society et. al., case number 08 L 10297, filed September 2008] The plaintiff initially sought $ 1.1 million in damages.

In a statement released today, Edgewater Historical Society (EHS) President Robert Remer said, “We are relieved this suit has been dismissed after two long years. We have always believed that EHS and the individual Defendants did no wrong. We are confident that had the suit proceeded further, EHS would have prevailed, and collected attorneys’ fees under the Citizens’ Participation Act.”

Initially, because of its historical and architectural significance of the Kenmore property, EHS and the Defendants voiced concern regarding its proposed demolition. Thereafter, the Edgewater community also engaged in a public debate regarding a landmark district proposal that was drafted by City of Chicago Landmarks staff. The Kenmore property was part of that proposed district.

Remer further said, “Edgewater is proud to have three Federal Historic Districts and several buildings designated as either Federal or local landmarks or historic sites. EHS supported, but did not initiate, this particular landmark district proposal, which was subject to the community process implemented by the Alderman of the 48th Ward, where community decision making on land use issues has been practiced for over 30 years.

“We are extremely grateful to the indispensable and generous support of our pro-bono attorneys at Seyfarth Shaw, LLP (including David Christian, William Goldberg, Erin Dougherty Foley, Ryan Pinkston, and Danielle Bochneak) and previously from Neal & Leroy (in particular Richard Friedman). Their unfailing support carried EHS and the four Defendants through two difficult and threatening years.

“EHS also owes a debt of gratitude to LeRoy Blommaert, Kathy Gemperle, Thom Greene, and Betty Mayian. They have been pillars of the community for 40 years and have made significant contributions to Edgewater both as founding board members of EHS, and in many other Edgewater leadership positions over the years. They should be commended for enduring this painful ordeal on behalf of EHS. They have always carried themselves with dignity, pride, and with a continued commitment to the Edgewater community.

“Despite the incredibly generous support of our pro-bono attorneys, EHS still faced considerable expense relative to our budget. The lawsuit also drained innumerable hours of valuable time of our leadership – resources and time that could otherwise have been devoted to the community, our museum, our educational programs, and our historic collections.

“EHS has always played a central role in providing research and educational resources for the community to help it understand the neighborhood’s history through its buildings, and to help the community make informed decisions related to preservation matters. With the lawsuit behind us, we reaffirm our commitment to the Edgewater community and will continue to support efforts to save important and historic structures.”

More press about Edgewater lighthouses

From Gay Chicago Magazine:
LIGHTHOUSES LIGHT UP EDGEWATER
Written by Amy Wooten
CHICAGO – It’s hard not to notice the fanciful lighthouses adorning the streets of one lakefront neighborhood that’s home to many GLBT Chicagoans. The lovely lighthouses peppered throughout the streets of Edgewater not only symbolize a neighborhood’s dedication to its residents but also a monumental community effort.
In celebration of its golden anniversary, Edgewater Community Council created 20 handmade wooden lighthouses, all of which were uniquely decorated and displayed by local individuals and businesses.
ECC 50th anniversary committee co-chair and former 48th Ward Ald. Marion Volini said ECC wanted to find a symbol for the decades of vital improvements the organization has been able to make. Because of Edgewater’s lakefront setting and its unwavering commitment to improving the neighborhood, helping its residents and taking a stand on important issues, many felt that a lighthouse, coupled with the theme “Lighting the way for 50 years,” was especially fitting.
“We think of Edgewater as a safe harbor because we’ve been a port of entry for so many different groups of people over the years,” Volini said.
Continue reading

Edgewater, Robberies, and Racial Profiling

We came across this blogger's entry which covers the recent meeting of concerned citizens at Lakewood & Rosemont. A woman at the meeting claimed her son was racially profiled because he is African American. Other residents, along with police, countered by stating the man simply fit the description - apparently he was seen loitering in an alley and wears baggy pants.

Edgewater blaze sends firefighter to hospital

From the Chicago Sun Times:
August 25, 2010

SUN-TIMES MEDIA WIRE
A firefighter was injured while battling an overnight blaze in the North Side’s Edgewater neighborhood but he is back home recovering Wednesday morning.

The fire started at 11:40 p.m. Tuesday at a 2-story residential building at 6138 N. Clark St., according to Chicago Fire Department spokesman Richard Rosado. The dimensions of the building on fire are 25 by 50.

Crews used two hose lines to douse the flames and it was extinguished by about midnight, according to Rosado.

One firefighter was transported to Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, initially in serious condition as a precaution, but he is back home as of 7:30 a.m. after suffering chest pains, Rosado said.

No one else was injured, and no working smoke detectors were found in the building.

Free Comedy @ Deluxe Diner

The Deluxe Diner (6349 N Clark) is hosting free comedy shows every Thursday from 9PM - 11PM. As if free comedy isn't enough reason to go, they also have some sweet drink specials including $1 Bud Light drafts and $2 well drinks.






(photo courtesy of Evil Vince Photography)

Lost cat

Please help these new Edgewater/Andersonville residents find their furry friend. He was lost in July on the 5300 block of N Paulina but was recently spotted at 1725 W Balmoral. For additional information, or to contact his owners, click here.

Mayor Daley to Dedicate Beach House on Friday

From Alderman Mary Ann Smith's office:

Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, Alderman Mary Ann Smith and State Representative Harry Osterman will dedicate the new Kathy Osterman Beach House, 5701 N. Lake Shore Drive, this Friday, August 27, at Noon.

They will be joined by representatives from the Chicago Park District, the Public Building Commission of Chicago and community representatives who worked on the project.

The new beach house is named for the late 48th Ward Alderman Kathy Osterman. It was paid for through a combination of aldermanic discretionary and park district funds.

All are welcome to join this celebration.

NBC Chicago: Edgewater Outraged Over Robberies

More news coverage (including video) of the recent string of strong-arm robberies along Magnolia, Lakewood and Rosemont from NBC Chicago. Thanks to the many residents who gathered last night to take action as well as draw attention to this issue.

Windy City Times chats with current Alderman & mentions future alderman Candidate?

Two articles on page 7 of today's Windy City Times issue are related to the 48th Ward. First, reporter Andrew Davis interviews Alderman Mary Ann Smith and discusses her decision to step down after serving 21 years in the role. Second, the LGBT publication mentions that attorney Betty Tsamis is forming a committee to explore a potential run to replace MAS as 48th Ward Alderman. You can check out both articles here.

Meeting about Edgewater's recent robberies makes the Tribune

Last night's meeting up at Lakewood and Rosemont got the attention of the Chicago Tribune (click here), which is encouraging.

Potbelly's new sign

As previously mentioned, Potbelly is coming to Andersonville on Clark Street. While many have griped about another "big chain" moving into the neighborhood, we are not only glad to see the empty storefront become occupied by a local Chicago company, but you have to love how they utilized the old Erickson Jewelers sign!

(Erickson photo courtesy of Flick user Aurous' Photostream)

Thorndale Safety Meeting

Eyewitness account of purse snatching on Winthrop

At last night's Edgewater Beach Neighbors Association meeting, local police told us about a suspect who grabbed a woman's purse on Winthrop Ave. at Thorndale. He was subsequently apprehended and charged with felony robbery. A reader also emailed me to provide the following firsthand account of the incident. It really pays to be observant!

The guy grabbed someone's purse down by Swift Elementary (which we didn't see), ran north on Winthrop on the East side of the street where I was standing with my wife, he said "excuse me sir," turned right, and headed South in the Winthrop/Kenmore alley. At that point we realized he had stolen the purse, and we gave chase. I called 911 as we rolled, my wife continued the pursuit on foot and was joined by another guy who followed him as he entered a building at Kenmore and Ardmore. After about 5-10 minutes about 50 cops showed up and arrested the guy. I don't know whether the victim was hurt, but they recovered her purse and the missing money.

EBNA Safety Townhall

(yes, we need a better camera)

EBNA block president Killian Walsh, with the help of State Representative Harry Osterman, organized a series of speakers to discuss various safety concerns and preventative measures with Edgewater residents at tonight's EBNA block club meeting. A big thank you to each of them for hosting such a successful event. The meeting packed Epworth Church, with well over 60 people in attendance (inlcuding many ECB readers!). For those that were unable to attend, a few highlights & takeaways:

- Commander Moy and Dr. Ron Rufo (CPD Crime Prevention Speaker) discussed various crime prevent tactics. Always be aware of your surroundings: turn down the iPod, walk with confidence & with your head up, stay off the phone/text/email. Dr. Rufo's piece was very effective, too much to write here. He is available to speak to other clubs/organizations. To book him (for free) call: 312.745.5838 Ext. 84652.

- 20th District CAPS representative: the CPD/CAPS in coordination with the neighborhood is trying to establish a "Safe Harbors" concept within the business community.

- Surveillance cameras have been a useful tool in not only solving crime, but deterring crime. Alderman MAS is working to have a "Blue Light" camera installed at Thorndale, but businesses and residents are encouraged to also install cameras around their own private property. Funding for such cameras is generally private, but contact Harry Osterman's office if assistance is needed. In addition, Mike Podpolucki discussed being proactive and installing cameras on his street. He has since started a small business which installs security cameras and systems within homes and condo associations. Edgewater Surveillance Systems - mykpod@gmail.com / 773.332.6417.

More shots on Kenmore?

A reader writes in inquiring: More gun shots on Kenmore. Thought I heard gunshots again. 12:52 a.m. Kenmore towards Thorndale. Probably just my imagination but thought I would pass it on in case others confirm.

Vincent update

A reader shares these photos, which seem to confirm our report from the end of July regarding the closure of La Tache and the birth of "Vincent" from the owners of HB. It appears that the new owners plan to open on September 10th.

Reminder: Final Third Saturday

For more info on today's events: click here.

BBQ in Andersonville?

Photo from Baby Skinz's photostream on Flickr

A reader tells us...

The last two nights, on Clark Street near Berwyn there's been a strong smell of hickory or some other cooking wood. It smells really good, but I can't figure out which restaurant would be doing that. Maybe Charlie's is having a rib week or something?

Tuesday: Crime discussion @ Lakewood/Rosemont

Yet again, Harry Osterman has offered to meet with residents concerned about crime. He will hold an informal meeting at the corner of Lakewood & Rosemont on Tuesday, August 24th from 5:15-6:45PM to discuss the recent string of armed robberies in the area.

Bryn Mawr & Broadway in 1910

This post card was listed here for sale on EBay - a shot from 1910 of the corner of Bryn Mawr and Broadway (then called Evanston Ave) where Taqueria Uptown and a small convenience store are currently located.

Best Italian: Calo Ristorante

In our most recent poll, we asked readers what their favorite neighborhood Italian restaurant was. Calo Risotorante (5343 N Clark) garnered the most votes (38%), barely edging out Francesca's (33%). In addition, several readers wrote in suggesting Antica Pizzeria and Pizzeria Aroma. Congrats to Calo!

Care For Real Benefit dinner, Tuesday 8/24

From the Edgewater Community Council....

Continuing the success, good food and camaraderie of the first two Chefs Care for Real dinners, Uncommon Ground is sponsoring the next dine out event on Tuesday, August 24. Order off the menu at either lunch or dinner, and Uncommon Ground will donate a percentage of your check to Care for Real. No coupon is necessary, but the restaurant would appreciate knowing you're there to support Care for Real. Based on the success of the previous dinners, reservations are recommended. You can make them by calling 773- 465-9801.

High Rise dwellers: help the birds!

Photo © Jeremy Atherton, 2006

Bird Migration Season Begins
Please Close Blinds & Shield Lights
A message from Chicago Audubon Society - in cooperation with the Mayor's Wildlife and Nature Committee and the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago

Autumn 2010
Help Save Birds!!
Lights Out After 11 p.m. During Migration

For nine years, Chicago's tall buildings have served as an example to the nation as they save birds' lives.

What you can do to help
Tall buildings can save birds by extinguishing decorative lighting on the upper stories after 11 p.m. each evening and leaving lights off until daylight from August 15 to November 15. Birds migrate throughout these months. Tenants on the upper floors are encouraged to turn out lights or draw blinds after 11 p.m. These recommendations apply to all buildings of 40 or more stories, and to buildings of 20 or more stories that are isolated from other buildings.

Short buildings along the lakefront with extensive glass exteriors can save birds by extinguishing exterior lighting and extinguishing interior lighting or drawing blinds from August 15 to November 15 each eveningafter 1 a.m. and leaving the lights off until daylight.

Buildings with lighted atria can save birds by reducing atrium lighting in the early morning hours.

Based on new research, we recommend that during the Lights Out migration period, lights be turned off (or blinds drawn) in all perimeter office and residential space on all floors from 4 am to full daylight. Birds that are decreasing their elevation to settle in to rest after their long migratory journey will have reduced risk of colliding with windows.

Thorndale Action Task Force meeting

2 opportunities to discuss area crime:
The Thorndale Action Task Force will be meeting next Thursday, August 26th at 1130 West Thorndale @ 7PM to discuss safety on the street. Harry Osterman will be in attendence.



In addition, as previously mentioned there will be a townhall safety meeting on Tuesday, August 24th at 7PM at Epworth Church located at BERWYN and Kenmore (disregard typo on flyer). This meeting will also be attended by Harry Osterman, and in addition we have heard that Chicago Police's Commander Moy and Sgt Sacks will attend.

Additional coverage on fatal shooting

From the Chicago Tribune:

Man shot to death in North Side alley
A 29-year-old man with a lengthy criminal record was shot in the head and killed at the mouth of an alley near his home in the Edgewater neighborhood on the North Side, officials said.

Olutosin Bajomo, of the 5800 block of North Kenmore Avenue, was pronounced dead at 2:57 a.m. at Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, according to a spokeswoman for the Cook County medical examiner's office. Bajomo has spent time in prison on both robbery and drug charges, dating back to at least 1998, according to court records.

Police and paramedics responded about 2:22 a.m. to the 1000 block of West Ardmore Avenue and found the victim, said Police News Affairs Officer Ron Gaines. He was found at the mouth of the alley on the north side of Ardmore Avenue.
Continue reading at ChicagoBreakingNews.com

Loyola Student Dispatch: Police seek suspect in Edgewater murder

CBS2 Chicago: Man Shot Dead in Edgewater

Harry Osterman leaning strongly toward running

From Gay Chicago Magazine:
CHICAGO – Ill. state Rep. Harry Osterman (D-Chicago) said Aug. 16 that he is leaning strongly toward running for the 48th Ward City Council seat being vacated by retiring Ald. Mary Ann Smith, who's held the seat since 1989.

“I've been talking to people about the issues facing the ward and getting a lot of feedback that's been very positive,” Osterman said.

Osterman's mother held the Edgewater-based seat before Smith and there's been a great deal of speculation about an Osterman candidacy in the February 2011 city election since Smith announced her plans to retire at the end of her term.

"Lighthouses of Edgewater" Lighthouse crawl

Man shot & killed in Edgewater alley

And the violence continues - a 29 year old man was shot and killed last night in an alley right here in Edgewater. The man, who lived on the 5800 block of North Kenmore, was found with a shot to the head just after 2AM this morning in an alley at the 1000 block of West Ardmore. By our unofficial tally, this is the 4th shooting in Edgewater reported to us in less than 24 hours, and this time it has taken a man's life.
Source: ChicagoBreakingNews.com

Multiple instances of shots fired yesterday afternoon?

After I posted about the shots fired in the alley near the Thorndale Red Line around 3PM yesterday, I received more reports of shots fired at nearby locations. One commenter said....

We witnessed a shooting (on foot) at Granville, near Metropolis Cafe. This was around 3:15 pm.

Today I received an email from another reader who reported....

I got home at 7PM yesterday to fine the Glenlake block between Kenmore and Winthrop taped off and shell casings scattered all over the street. Someone nearby said that they heard something happen there at 5:30, but didn't see it. Does anyone else know what actually happened?

These locations are relatively close to one another, so if anyone can clarify these occurrences or provide more details, please let us know in the comments or via email.

Edgewater's Gaztro-Wagon on ABC7

Edgewater's Gaztro-Wagon restaurant and its street food truck concept were featured today on ABC7. The truck was also downtown serving lunch near ABC7 studios at State & Lake. To find out where future stops will be for the Gaztro-Wagon, follow them on Twitter. Or, their sandwiches are always available at the store (5973 N Clark).

Another phone robbery

From the Edgewater North Neighbors block club:

Dear Neighbors,

The following was posted on Facebook yesterday by a friend of mine who lives on Granville near Glenwood:

"I am sorry to bring such bad news but I did want to let you all know that a woman was robbed of her phone yesterday evening [August 12] in daylight hours at gun point in the 1300 block of West Rosemont. The incident happened directly across the street from where I was robbed by force for my IPhone at the same time of day. My friend who lives there witnessed this last night. Please pass on this information as there is concern that this is a group of criminals feeding on the neighborhood. My perpetrator and the one last night do not match descriptions. I have limited outdoor use of phones to emergencies only with my children and I am also not allowing the IPod Touches to leave the house right now as they look like an IPhone. The victims were both female. I know all of our children are not very often out and unattended, but I want to be sure you and all of your children are safe."

Town Hall Safety Meeting w/Harry Osterman

Join the EBNA Block Club and State Representative Harry Osterman for a Town Hall Meeting regarding safety. Everyone is welcome to attend this event, which will be hosted at Epworth Church next Tuesday (8/24) at 7PM. Click the flyer below to enlarge it.

Third Saturdays

From the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce:
Don't Miss Third Saturdays in Edgewater!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
11:00am to 3:00pm

This summer's Third Saturday series goes out with a bang on Saturday, August 21 from 11am to 3pm with a sidewalk sale, specials from local businesses, entertainment, music, art, children's activities, and more! Fun for the whole family! Explore your neighborhood and save! Third Saturdays is FREE to attend.

For full details, including a full list of activities, performers, and participating businesses, visit www.edgewater.org/third_saturdays.aspx.

August 21st Activities
* sidewalk sales, special promotions, and discounts from 75 participating businesses
* Entertainment on Bryn Mawr, including two street stages with lineups of dance performances, musicians, and more.
* Live art on Bryn Mawr.
* Walking Tour of the Bryn Mawr National Historic District sponsored by the Edgewater Historical Society. Tour begins at noon.
*Solo performers and duos at several intersections in Edgewater.
* Special entertainment at the Edgewater Farmers Market at Broadway & Norwood.

Remember to check our website for more details: www.edgewater.org/third_saturdays.aspx

Reminder: Taste of Andersonville is tonight

You can purchase tickets here for $25, or for an increased price at the door.

Edgewater boy drowns in Michigan

Edgewater boy, 9, drowns in lake during family's Michigan vacation

August 18, 2010

BY CHERYL V. JACKSON cjackson@suntimes.com

A 9-year-old Edgewater neighborhood boy drowned this week while on a family vacation in Michigan.

Ethan Seitzer and his father, Jeffrey, were playing in the waves in Lake Michigan Monday in Berrien County when the two were carried out by a rip current, Chikaming Township police said.

The boy was rushed to a St. Joseph, Mich., hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His father did not need treatment.

Continue reading the article on the Chicago Sun Times website.

Police action near Thorndale and Broadway

A reader emailed me with the following report this afternoon....

At about 3 pm, there were about 5 or 6 cop cars & SUVs around the Thorndale red line stop and more seemed to be on their way. As I walked into Dominick's, I heard a man say that he saw a kid with a gun running down an alleyway. When I left, the cop cars were on Broadway and one went west on Elmdale. Does anyone have any information regarding this?

New life for Ridge Ave. firehouse?

A reader emailed us recently to report some interesting progress at the former firehouse on Ridge Ave....

Have you heard anything about what is going on with the firehouse on Ridge Avenue? The past few days, there have been people inside working, and last night it appeared there was some sort of theatrical performance taking place. Just wondering if there are any new plans for the building?

Photo from philipyk's photostream on Flickr

Flourish under new ownership

CONTACT: Allison Madell
Flourish Bakery Café
Phone: (773) 271-2253/Mobile: (773)677-4612
Email: Allison@flourishbakerycafe.com

Flourish Bakery Café Re-Opens with New Talent, New Look and New Menu
Edgewater Neighborhood Bakery/Cakery and Café Focuses on Great Breads and Favorite Foods

Chicago, Illinois (August 1, 2010) – Originally opened in 2006, Flourish Bakery Café located at 1138 West Bryn Mawr Avenune, recently re-opened with new owners, new talent, a new look and new menu. Flourish Bakery features great breads, cakes and favorite foods baked to a state of YUM.

Flourish is best known for its breads, delicious cakes, cupcakes and pastries and the bakers take high quality ingredients and bake them to perfection. All bakery goods are made fresh on premise in the commercial ovens and state-of-the-art equipment to help ensure consistently great baked goods. Flourish offers fresh-roasted rich Metropolis coffees to accompany its breakfast, lunch, dinner or just-because menu offerings.

Longstanding Edgewater residents, Ed and Allison Madell bought Flourish in May 2010, hoping to modernize the European bakery experience. Ed envisioned bringing to life his childhood bakery memories of growing up in Germany and Allison hoped to relive her food-filled, happy years in Paris as a student.

First up, Ed and Allison wanted to focus the menu, offering fewer best-in-class items based on great baked goods. This allowed them to concentrate on their end goal of top-notch ingredients that would deliver a perfect bite every time.

“In order to deliver on our promise of consistently great baked goods, we needed to add some committed talent to our kitchens,” said Ed. Flourish hired an excellent Master Bread Maker who specializes in Artisanal breads and a Head Cake Decorator with an uncanny ability to modernize and customize old favorites without losing their great flavor and charm.

Ed sums it up best, “Community and being a good neighbor is a big part of who we want to be. Great bread, favorite foods and good neighbors. Does it get much simpler than that?”

Flourish Bakery Cafe is open 7:30am to 8:00pm (Monday – Saturday) and 8:00am to 5:00pm (Sunday). Visit us at www.flourishbakerycafe.com for more information. Look for us on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr, too.

Eat happy. Flourish.

Yoga Instructor Needed

(click image to enlarge)

Weekend break-ins

From the EBNA Block Club:

2 condo buildings on the 5200 block of North Winthrop were broken into this weekend - a 2 flat building and 5235 N Winthrop. The condos were broken into on Saturday, in broad daylight, around 1pm. The intruders picked locks and used a crowbar to get in multiple doors: the front gate, front door and unit door.

EARC Hot Dog Social

Instead of a general meeting this month, the East Andersonville Residents' Council block club will be holding a HOT DOG SOCIAL for its residents:

Saturday, August 28th
Noon - 3:00 pm
Pierce Park (Clark & Gregory)

This is a free event for all East Andersonville Residents. They will be serving hot dogs, chips and pop. Fun for the whole family!

EARC serves residents from Foster to Bryn Mawr and Clark to Glenwood. For more info
email EARC60640@yahoo.com or check out their Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/earc60640

CPD on Facebook

From the CPD:

Friend the Chicago Police Department on Facebook!

Did you know the Chicago Police Department has a Facebook Page? We embrace this new and progressive way of keeping you updated about what's going on in your neighborhood, and within your Police Department.

Search for the Chicago Police Department the next time you log into Facebook, and let all of your "friends" know you "like" us!

New Restaurant in Andersonville

Kingfisher restaurant will open up in the former Arkadash Cafe space at 5721 N Clark in September. Kingfisher will be a seafood restaurant from the owners of former Jefferson Park restaurant Pier 5736. You can check out their website here. In addition, here is the Metromix writeup:

The beloved seafood joint formerly known as Pier 5736 is moving to a new 'hood, changing its name to Kingfisher and doubling its seating capacity to more than 100 come late September. Though the space at this Andersonville location is all new (and nicely situated so that you can grab a seat near French doors opening out onto Clark Street) fresh seafood will remain the focus. Expect the same nightly fresh-caught specials that made the original spot so popular, along with standby appetizers such as shrimp bisque and lobster medallions and entrees ranging from sauteed rainbow trout to tequila lime shrimp. For land lubbers, there's a wider selection of pork chops, steaks, and chicken, as well as pastas and vegetarian entrees. For dessert, try house favorites such as the chocolate mousse bomb or apple strudel.

Chicago Mag - Best Lesbian Bar: Joie de Vine

From Chicago Magazine's Best of Chicago 2010:

LESBIAN BAR JOIE DE VINE Don’t be confused by the French name or the cheese and olive flights—this is not a snooty wine bar. Joie de Vine also offers a great selection of Midwestern craft beers and unique whiskeys, rums, and liqueurs (such as maple syrup and pistachio) in addition to the dozen or so pours of red and white. The lesbian-owned-and-operated bar hosts burlesque shows, open mics, and ladies-only mixers in the long, narrow space just off the hustle and bustle of Clark Street in Andersonville. You can also sip a joitini in the sidewalk café. 1744 W. BALMORAL AVE.; 773-989-6846

Air & Water Show this weekend

Just a reminder, if you hear planes, helicopters or fighter jets buzzing by the Lakefront, Chicago is not under attack. Its the Air & Water show weekend. Check out this ChicagoNow article profiling the best places to view the show.

CPD Community Alert

Community Alert - "The Choking Game"

Chicago Police have become aware of a potentially deadly game children are playing that may result in death or near-death experiences. In the "choking game," participants attempt to experience a euphoric feeling by temporarily depriving the brain of oxygen by applying pressure to the neck until they pass out. Parents may seek information about risks associated with the choking game to help prevent children from playing the game.

• Strange bruising or red marks around the neck
• Bloodshot eyes
• Bed sheets, belts, T-shirts, ties, or ropes tied in strange knots and/or found in unusual places
• Visiting Web sites or chat rooms mentioning asphyxiation or the choking game
• Curiosity about asphyxiation (asking questions like “how does it feel?” or “what happens if?”)
• Disorientation and/or grogginess after being alone
• Locked or blocked bedroom or bathroom doors
• Frequent, often severe headaches
• Changes in attitude; becoming more aggressive
• Wear marks on furniture (bunk beds or closet rods)

If parents believe a child is playing the choking game, speak with the young person about the life-threatening dangers associated with the game and seek additional help if necessary.

If you have any questions about the "Choking Game," call Area 5 Detectives at
312-746-8282

Ferragosto @ Casa Italiana

Join Casa Italiana (5430 N Broadway) this Ferragosto for a weekend of fun, Italian and Wine Tasting.

Friday, August 13th
6:00-8:00pm: Aperitivo
- Meet your fellow Wine Weekend Companions and learn about a variety of Italy's sparkling wines.

Saturday August 14th
2:30-3:30pm: Wine Tasting 101
- A 'How to' presentation on Wine Tasting

4:00-6:00pm: Vini Italiani
- A tasting an presentation of Italian wines learning about their culture, regions and characteristics.

7:00pm: Puglian Wine Dinner
- Take an excursion to Via Veneto Ristorante for a Puglian Dinner paired with Puglian wines and show and put you newly aquired knowledge to the test!

SENTIERI INC.
3712 N.BROADWAY #273
CHICAGO, IL60613
773/275-5325 WWW.SENTIERI.COM

Saturday: Designer Yard Sale!

(Click image to enlarge)

Local Tofu

The Chicago Sun Times wrote this article yesterday entitled "Tofu - Seriously" which features local tofu producer Phoenix Bean (5438 N Broadway). Phoenix Bean produces tofu for restaurants, but we've also purchased their products at the Andersonville Farmer's Market and at Edgewater Produce - it is delish!

Fight on Elmdale

A reader from Facebook asks:
Does anyone know anything about the fight on Elmdale and Glenwood this a.m.? Apparently at least one person was cut/stabbed. There was blood and broken glass all over the sidewalk at 8:00 a.m. There was also a lot of police presence (including an unmarked and a paddy wagon) on Elmdale between Glenwood and Broadway last night.

Daily Deal: 61% off at Bootcamp Express

As we previously mentioned at the end of July, Bootcamp Express recently opened in the former Joel Hall Dance Studio space at Berwyn & Clark (1515 W Berwyn). If you've been wanting to try some Bootcamp sessions, here is your chance to do so at a discount. Daily Deals is offering 5 sessions for $39 - a 61% savings over regular price!

Click here for the deal.

Teachers: Back to School Massage

From TimeOut Chicago:

SPAS & GYM - Continuum Studio
You give, give, give and what do you get back? Not much. That’s not the case at Continuum Studio now through the end of August, though. Any educator who books an hour-long massage or skin-care treatment this month will receive a $20 discount. It’s the perfect back-to-school treat. 5671 N Clark St (773-728-7883, continuumstudio.com). El: Red to Bryn Mawr. Bus: 22, 50. Mon–Fri 11am–8pm; Sat, Sun 10am–6pm.

Loving Hut

Chicago Magazine recently reviewed Loving Hut (5812 N Broadway) - a vegan restaurant that is part of a chain of restaurants all over the world. The menu's vary by location, and the menu at the Edgewater location has a pan-Asian influence. Have you experienced Loving Hut? Let us know what you thought.