Lori's Shoes

Best Shoe Store

Shoppers with a weakness for footwear find Lori’s either a blessing or a curse—depending on the status of their bank account. The Lincoln Park emporium (there are two suburban locations in Highland Park and Northfield) stuffs a sizable space with American and European designer shoes, all marked 10 percent to 30 percent less than department-store prices. The selection includes everything from classics to trendy brands such as Jeffrey Campbell, Corso Como and Boutique 9, not to mention dozens of Italian exclusives. Better yet, you’d be hard pressed to find a physical shoe shop with a more complete e-commerce site, replete with weekly blog posts to keep you informed on the latest fashions. 824 W Armitage Ave (773-281-5655, lorisshoes.com).—Jessica Herman

Lincoln Park Massage Spa

Sick of giving your significant other a massage so he'll give you one in return? You can both just relax. Head to Lincoln Park Massage Spa this month and enjoy $25 off couples massages (normally starting at $100 per person). 

630 W. Webster
(773) 296-6300
www.lincolnparkmassage.com

Registration takes place from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and public hearings begin at 7:00 p.m.  The hearing dates and locations are as follows: Thursday, September 9 at South Shore Cultural Center, 6059 S. South Shore Drive; Friday, September 10 at Westinghouse College Prep, 3223 W. Franklin;  and Thursday, September 16 at North-Grand High School, 4338 W. Wabansia.

All three locations are fully accessible and interpreters will be availalbe for the hearing impaired.  All facilities are air-conditioned.

Speakers must register in person and testimony will be limited to three minutes.  The 2011 Preliminary Budget can be reviewed at all Chicago Public Library branches and at the Office of Budget and Management on the City of Chicago website.

What happened to the remains of our ancestors that were buried on the 60 acres?

When was the “cemetery” closed and why did it become a park?

How can I find out if my ancestors were among the 35,000 buried there?

Who holds the records associated with the cemetery?

Learn the answers to these questions and many more. Pamela Bannos, our guide and speaker is an expert on this subject which became her project, “Hidden Truths”.

Chicago Genealogical Society Lecture and Walking Tour
Saturday, October 2, 2010

Event Schedule:

10:00 – 11:00 am Newberry Library Lecture at 60 West Walton

11:30 am – 12:30 pm Lincoln Park/City Cemetery Walking Tour which starts at 1850 North Clark and ends at 1601 North Clark

12:30 – 2:00 pm Chicago History Museum (Optional Lunch) at the North and Clark Café, 1601 North Clark.

Please visit www.chicagogenealogy.org for more information.

Program Features include:

• Business Assessment to evaluate financial knowledge
• Targeting of areas of weakness
• Three workshops to build knowledge
• Regular counseling sessions

Program Steps include:

• Attend Program Launch
• Apply through assessment questionnaire
• Gain acceptance
• Assignment of key "To Dos"
• Workshops - take two of three (Financials 101; Preparing for Investment; Strategic Planning)
• Counseling
• Basic Skills Exam
• Graduation

Financial Empowerment Training Program Launch
September 8, 2010
Citibank, 500 W. Madison

For more information, contact Duane Wadlington at (312) 960-0319 or via email.

www.chiventures.com

LPCC Joins Community to Welcome Aquitaine to Lincoln Park
French American Faire in Heart of the Neighborhood

CHICAGO (August 24, 2010) – With a diverse population coupled with a strong food scene, Chicago has quietly moved up the ranks to one of the country’s most respected culinary destinations.  Across the Lincoln Park neighborhood restaurants and cafes from gourmet to casual dot the tree-lined streets and busy commercial corridors of the community.  It is in this spirit that Lincoln Park residents should look forward to the newest venture filling N. Lincoln.

Located at 2221 N. Lincoln, Aquitaine proudly offers Lincoln Park residents and visitors quality French fare and service in a neighborhood with many high traffic destinations.  On August 23, 2010 the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) joined community members, local businesses and staff from the new location to officially welcome Aquitaine to Lincoln Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Aquitaine is a new neighborhood restaurant at Lincoln and Webster, offering savory American food with a French influence to the area’s many residents who dine out several times a week. Crispy duck breast, sweet pear braised pork shoulder and hand rolled pasta. Aquitaine also offers seafood selections such as pan seared trout and some vegetarian options. The menu is designed to utilize products from local farms and farmers and their wines are hand-picked to complement the cuisine, showing an affinity for small winemakers and producers.

“My goal with Aquitaine is to provide a local restaurant with a quaint and elegant environment featuring my hand prepared dishes, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented,” Executive Chef Holly Willoughby said.
With Chef Willoughby present at nearly every service, al fresco dining and a dress code that ranges from relaxed to fashionable, Aquitaine represents an exciting approach to fine French-American cuisine in Lincoln Park.

“It is my pleasure to welcome Aquitaine to the Lincoln Park community – a destination for classic and contemporary dishes,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce.  “The foot traffic already found on Lincoln will be enhanced by another gourmet restaurant occupying a storefront along this busy shopping, dining and entertainment corridor.”

Aquitaine is located at 2221 N. Lincoln and will be open from 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. seven days a week.  For more information on the culinary delights offered at Aquitaine, or to make a reservation, please call (773) 698-8456.

# # #

 

]]>

LPCC Joins Community to Welcome El’s Kitchen to Lincoln Park
Contemporary American Food Near Movie Theatre, Residents

CHICAGO (August 19, 2010) – At the busy intersection of Clybourn and Webster in Lincoln Park residents and guests  can see a movie, enjoy a casual or fine dining experience, shop at local and national retailers and work up a sweat.  With single-family homes and DePaul University all within walking distance, this shopping corridor in West Lincoln Park provides a diverse experience for potential customers.

Located at 1450 W. Webster, El’s Kitchen offers Lincoln Park quality American fare and service at a fair price.  On August 19, 2010 the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) joined Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd), community members, local businesses and staff from the new location to officially welcome El’s Kitchen to Lincoln Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Supporting local businesses and neighbors along with giving back to the community while providing a good meal at a reasonable price in one of my main goals,” says Ellen Haran, owner of El’s Kitchen. “Making sure my guests are well treated in a relaxed atmosphere is important to me as well.”

Fulfilling the lifelong dream of owner Ellen Haran, El’s Kitchen features down-to-earth American cuisine with a focus on unique spices and delicate cooking techniques.  Focusing on seasonal menu items and Midwestern flavors, El’s Kitchen is open for lunch and dinner with a number of options from salads, sandwiches and entrees.  Chef Sirino Bautista works to create stunning menu items of meats, poultry and produce sustainably farmed from local and regional farmers.  While staff shops local farmers markets for the best of what’s around, menu items may change to meet the freshest ingredients possible.

El’s Kitchen’s menu is dotted with items including a Chopped Brisket sandwich, Ribs, Southern Fried Chicken, Grilled Salmon and a Cobb Salad.  Homemade desserts help diners finish any meal with a sweet indulgence. El’s Kitchen also has a full bar serving cocktails, wine and beer including locally brewed favorites.

“The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce welcomes El’s Kitchen to our neighborhood as we watch for their dishes to build the reputation of Lincoln Park as a destination dining location,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce.  “El’s Kitchen will provide moviegoers gourmet dishes before or after the season’s latest blockbuster.”

El’s Kitchen is located at 1450 W. Webster and will be open Tuesday – Friday from 12:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.  Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  They are closed on Mondays.  For more information on the culinary delights offered at El’s Kitchen, or to make a reservation, please call (773) 248-5210 or visit them online at www.elskitch.com.

# # #

WHAT: Despite continued reports of slow small business recovery, north side tech company, Switchfast, has recently hired its 52nd employee, a mark that is up from 35 employees just 12 months ago.

WHY: Due to increased demand for services from clients and prospects, Switchfast has begun to invest in itself and its people to increase efficiency while maintaining the level of service that has driven success since founded in 2001 by Matthew Owen, a 1995 graduate of the University of Notre Dame.  

WHERE: Switchfast HQ. 4043 N. Ravenswood, in the Ravenswood Business Corridor.

WHO: This isn't just great news for Switchfast, it means the local business community has begun looking at their operating systems, websites, and marketing to make sure they are in a solid position as the economic recovery trudges along. As stabilized small businesses look to the future, they are assessing their technology status and beginning to make the necessary investments to properly align themselves to remain competitive.

Master muralist Hector Duarte will lead family workshops at the Nature Museum
Saturdays from 10 a.m. - Noon
September 4, 11 and 18

Museum visitors can watch Hector Duarte work on the “Living Mural”
Fridays from 10 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
September 3, 10 and 17
                                               
WHERE:

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 North Cannon Drive, just off Lake Shore Drive at Fullerton in Lincoln Park

ADMISSION:    

Most programming is included in Nature Museum general admission, which is $9 / adult, $6 / child 3-12, $7 / seniors and students. Thursdays are suggested donation days.

For more information visit www.naturemuseum.org.

Connection #1

I recently met Ron Stone from Grossinger AutoPlex at the Multi-Chamber event at Whirlyball.  We promptly followed up with each other and Ron took me on a tour of their facility.  In speaking with Ron, he mentioned he was looking to generate foot traffic and would be interested in hosting events of all kinds to do so.  I friend of mine just happens to run a networking ‘forum’ in the suburbs and was looking for a space in the city to host his event.  This was a perfect match!  I connected the two of them and now Grossinger AutoPlex is hosting the Networking Forum on August 24!  Ron gets the foot traffic and the event has a home. 

Connection #2

At this same Whirlyball event, I also met Chris Ramsey and Dr. Wyman of Lincoln Park Massage Spa.  I have connected with them on a couple of occasions and recently got a chance to take a tour of their spa on Webster.  Coincidentally, earlier that day I spoke with another massage therapist at a networking group I regularly attend.  She had been getting more and more client requests for a very specialized type of massage (lymphatic drainage) that is often sought out by cancer patients.  Since she did not hold this certification, she asked if the group knew anyone who had this specialty so she had a place to refer these people.  It turns out that Dr. Wyman has the certification and I was able to introduce the two parties.  Now this massage therapist has a place to refer her patients needing this service! 

Connection #3

The Ravenswood business corridor area is host to the annual Ravenswood Artwalk.  The event planners recently called Switchfast and asked us to open our doors for this event and potentially house an artist for the weekend of Oct. 2 & 3.  Switchfast saw this as an opportunity to get friends and family artists involved with the event.  We summoned them with the opportunity, including Nancie King Mertz.  I met Ron and Nancie at my first Chamber event (Cagney’s) and they were very helpful in getting my Chamber membership started including giving me a tour of their storefront.  Nancie will now be showing her work at this event in the Switchfast loft offices!

Element Grill by Fuego recently received the international design excellence award - the GOLD IDEA - for its design and functionality.

Vesta
1357 W. Concord
(773) 252-7300
www.vestachicago.com

Circulation/Reach: 24-Hour Visibility

Investment: $100 - $350

Benefits:
One low price includes all maintenance and permitting fees. The LPCC handles proofing process, banner maintenance and alerts your business of renewal deadlines. Catch the eyes of tourists, residents and businesses for an entire year.

Choose from the advertising options listed below:

New Orders

$300 each for 1 - 2 banners + $50 (set-up fee)
$275 each for 3 - 9 banners + $50 (set-up fee)
$250 each for 10+ banners + $50 (set-up fee)

Annual Renewal Fee

$150 each for 1 - 2 banners
$125 each for 3 - 9 banners
$100 each for 10+ banners

Please Note: E-mail final artwork in vector eps format to ads@lincolnparkchamber.com. Artwork will be printed on the lower 1/3 of both sides of the six foot banner. Additional fees apply for typesetting and alterations to your original layout. Orders are processed in April and September.

Disclaimer: LPCC membership must be current in order to participate. Banner locations are not guaranteed and are installed on light poles along commercial streets throughout Lincoln Park (not signal lights, poles currently occupied by other members or on poles outside of competitors.) Your banner is guaranteed to stay up for one full year. Any wear and tear will be maintained by the LPCC at no additional charge.

LPCC Joins Community to Welcome iCompute Cafe to Lincoln Park
Computer Rental, Sales and Repair on N. Lincoln

CHICAGO (August 9, 2010) – We are living in the most digital age in history and it would come as no surprise that modern residents and businesses rely on computers to help run their day-to-day lives.  While the importance of computers in never-ending, they are not meant to last a lifetime.  That’s where the importance of computer sales, rental and repair shops lies.  These technicians maintain the flow of information and sales for residents and businesses.

Located at 2461 N. Lincoln, iCompute Café offers Lincoln Park residents access to the most up-to-date technology services.  On Monday, August 9, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) joined community members, local businesses and staff from the new location to officially welcome iCompute Cafe to Lincoln Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Our café offers a full onsite computer repair shop for all Apple and PC systems, the sale of new computer systems, software and accessories, PC/Linux/Mac time rental, and print, copy, fax and scan services,” says John Ohr, Senior Technology Partner at iCompute Café.  “We also provide IT services for small-to-medium sized businesses.”

iCompute Café sets itself apart from other internet cafés by offering more than just coffee and a free Wi-Fi hotspot. With an average of over 20 years of experience for each staff technician, iCompute Café prides themselves on providing a high level of service at affordable prices.  As an authorized Apple reseller, iCompute Café will be able to quote Apple servers, desktop, and notebooks at competitive prices all from the center of Lincoln Park, not Michigan Avenue.

In addition to comprehensive computer services, iCompute Café also proudly serves coffee and tea by Bridgeport Coffee – a Chicago company – for customers and internet surfers at their location.

“The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce is excited to bring computer repair, sales and rental – not to mention a WiFi hot spot – to the Lincoln Park neighborhood,” said Kim Schilf, President and CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce.  “In our ever-changing technological landscape, the services provided by iCompute Café are increasingly important to local residents and small business owners.”

iCompute Café is located at 2461 N. Lincoln and will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m..  For more information on the services provided by iCompute Café, or to make a reservation for specific computer services, please call (773) 829-4444 or visit them online at www.icomputecafe.com.

# # #

Annual Tradeshow & Reception
August 20
Riverwalk Terrace, 401 N. Michigan

Call (312) 676-6826 for more information.

LPCC insider tip: For one-of-a-kind sales and discounts on massages, packages, gift items and more, be sure to follow them on Twitter: @LPMassageSpa

Congratulations from everyone at the LPCC on your continued operations in Lincoln Park!