To many, urban planning feels like a mystery — something happening in the background until one day you wake up and that vacant corner lot is suddenly a coffee shop. As an architect working in city planning for most of my career, I know how these decisions get made. For the average resident in a […]
Have you ever wondered what happens to a ballet dancer after they take their final bow on the stage? In Christine Rocas’ case, fate intervened, and she ended up exactly where she was always meant to be. After almost 20 years dancing for the Joffrey Ballet, a Make It Better Foundation grant partner, she is […]
In the heart of West Garfield Park, where residents face one of Chicago’s starkest life expectancy gaps, a transformative vision is taking shape. The Sankofa Wellness Village represents more than just new construction — it embodies a community’s determination to rewrite its narrative and reclaim its future. Confronting the Statistics The numbers paint a sobering […]
July in Chicago means long days, late sunsets, and no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re chasing live music, fireworks, food festivals, or art exhibitions, this month brings the kind of high-energy, culture-packed calendar that makes summer here feel so electric. From classic traditions like the 4th on 53rd Parade to major headliners at Lollapalooza […]
“Oh, I’ve had such a curious dream,” said Alice — and so did the 950 guests who stepped through a magical keyhole entrance on Saturday, May 31, for the Joffrey Ballet’s annual spring fundraiser. Held on a sprawling soundstage at Chicago’s Cinespace Film Studios, the “Joffrey Celebration” honored Board Chair Anne L. Kaplan and Life […]
The North Shore of Chicago is filled with vibrant communities and years-long traditions that usher in excitement each summer. With endless possibilities — such as outdoor live music, a scenic 5k race, art in the park, and more — everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Read on for a selection of the best […]
An unlikely collaboration between a Chicago-based filmmaker, dancers at The Joffrey Ballet, and the International Crane Foundation became a passion project and the beginning of the conservation short film series Mates for Life. Shot in a prairie setting, Mates for Life features two dancers, Joffrey artists Olivia Duryea and Dylan Gutierrez, portraying whooping cranes in […]
The Fourth of July is a nationally recognized and celebrated holiday, commemorating American independence and freedom from Great Britain. However, this “freedom” was not designed with all in mind. Our nation has spent a considerable time building a society that was meant to uplift some while purposefully excluding many — as proved through systemic, institutional […]
Finally! Colorful produce as far as the eye can see, stalls full of fresh-cut flowers, and plenty of tasty treats from local vendors — the summer farmers market scene in Chicagoland is in full swing. Check out our list of great farmers markets throughout the city and North Shore — whether you’re shopping for groceries, […]
Every June, we celebrate Pride Month — a time to honor the history, resilience and beautiful complexities of the LGBTQIA+ community. Over several decades, Pride Month has transformed into the event-filled, intersectional, joyful celebration we have come to know and love — including Chicago-favorite events like Pride in the Park or the annual Pride Parade. […]
