February 2019 Your Communication and Information Resource Curtain call for our funniest neighbor By Ron Cohn George Wendt, Shelley Long and Jim he said, the subject is rarely taught. An actor, playwright, Belushi were among my cohorts. I was James’ most successful play, Beau screenwriter, director, the youngest in the company,” he Jest, ran for nearly a year at Victory teacher – it sounds like the continued. “I was there for three years Gardens and for three years Off- start of a “five guys walked and it was an education not only just in Broadway to great acclaim. In greatly into a bar” story – but it’s theater, but in life.” simplified form, it’s the story of Sarah all one guy, James Sherman, who Later, by now well-established in his Goldman, a young schoolteach- walked into Malibu East a year ago. profession, James received his master’s er whose Jewish parents are eager to The versatile performer could still be degree in fine arts from Brandeis meet her supposed Jewish doctor convincingly cast as a suburban dad or University and, more recently, a boyfriend. She has to hire an actor, non- middle management exec despite a master’s in library and information Jewish, to play the role of the perfect career already spanning five decades of science from Dominican University. boyfriend she has invented for a dinner achievement in the entertainment with her family. world. James is best-known as the And the laughs author of more than 15 plays. The continue through- Chicago Tribune dubbed him “The Neil out the classic Simon of Lincoln Avenue,” recognizing three-acter as the his string of acclaimed comedies at original non-Jewish Victory Gardens Theater, which has boyfriend is sup- enshrined him as a member of their planted by the Playwrights Ensemble Alumni. actor, and a nosy The Neil Simon comparison was brother threatens particularly gratifying for our celebrat- to uncover her ed neighbor, who said that Simon, ruse. whom he considers one of America’s If it sounds like great playwrights, was an important a good plot for a influence on his work. “To see my name “rom-com” movie, in print connected to his was quite an James thought so, honor,” he said. too, and expected Photo by Tracy Poyser James’ career got a rocket launch for years that a when, at age 20 and on vacation from Among his catalog of plays, besides producer in his New York and L.A. orbit studies as a theater major at being performed locally, a number have would approach him for the rights. State, he enrolled in a class at Second been published and are regularly Finally, in the wake of My Big Fat Greek City with iconic improv director Del produced by theater companies around Wedding’s success and after a few Close. Over the course of the summer the globe. Beau Jest, Magic Time, The dashed hopes, he was given the chance he got a surprise chance to audition and God of Isaac, Mr. 80%, Jest a Second!, to not only sell his property but to write was hired as a performer in the touring Romance in D, From Door to Door, the screenplay adaptation and direct company. Affluenza!, Half and Half, and Jacob and the movie. Although James had directed “I had to call my folks and tell them I Jack have been performed throughout Beau Jest and some of his other plays was dropping out of college” he said. “It the , and have also been from time to time, directing was not a was the dream of a lifetime. Second City seen in Canada, Mexico, South America, major interest of his, so he said “it was a was the ‘Harvard of Comedy’ and England, Germany, Austria, Turkey, big leap of faith for everyone” but it South Africa, Australia, China and “was a great experience.” Lainie Kazan Malibu East events Korea. The God of Isaac, James told us, will be produced this summer in (Continued on page 8) and meetings Jerusalem. His plays have given him opportuni- Owners, Board meetings Our condolences Tuesday, Feb. 26 ties abroad, as well. He was invited to 7:30 p.m. - Windjammer Room be a visiting professor at the Korea to the family National Theater for the Arts for a Leave event and meeting notices at semester and he also conducted an and friends of the desk for the Dialogue. For more improv workshop at a distinguished events: malibueast.org/calendar theater school in Kent, England, where, Howard “Howie” Green Page 2 February 2019

Please keep in mind that the meeting notes are not the official record of the Malibu East Condominium Board of Directors meetings. The official minutes are generally approved By Neil Warner during the next meeting and may be viewed or copied in the management office. Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 similar to what is posted in each bulk Tabled. Attendance: Eleven Board members, two room. 6) 22.1 disclosure statement management representatives, 11 residents 7) Landscaping – Carol Beatty Tabled. Excused: Jake Levandowski Committee is waiting for illustrations of 7) Sale of 33H Presiding: President Marcel Molins two options for dog run location, which Board approved the sale of Association- will be posted in Lobby to solicit owned unit 33H for $310,000 with REVISIONS TO AGENDA feedback from residents. $5,000 credit to buyer, pending approval 1) “Sale of 33H” was added to items 8) Public & Community Affairs – Sandy by owners at Feb. 26 special meeting. requiring Board action. Chaet Old/new business 2) “Alternative energy program” was added A water main project will take place on 1) Internet portal to old/new business. Clark Street between Bryn Mawr and Sudler is evaluating vendors to provide Foster during daytime hours for 8-10 software for new internet portal that will TREASURER’S REPORT – Joan Scholl weeks, with limited parking. City- service Sudler’s client associations; it will 1) Financial statement (as of Dec. 31) generated applications for senior sewer send pertinent info to directors. Operating and reserve cash rebate will be mailed later than usual this 2) 5D sale status $2,917,456 year. State Fire Marshal Matt Perez has Sale of Association-owned unit 5D was Investment in units recommended changes to state’s life scheduled for Jan. 23. $2,397,004 (13 units) safety/fire codes. ASCO worked with Sen. 3) Balcony/facade project Excess of operating revenue over Steans, Rep. Cassidy and Ald. Osterman to Project is dormant until weather allows expenses investigate these changes; it was for resumption. See management report, $548,649 year-to-date determined that Chicago’s home-rule page 3. 2) Delinquencies (as of Jan. 18) authority should exempt city condos 4) East air handler $418,982, including $277,709 from from these changes. A mural entitled “We Unit has been fully repaired and is former residents, less $296,665 allow- All Live Here,” with 2-by-2-foot images of working well. ance for doubtful accounts Edgewater residents, is being planned for 5) Stack effect: garage carbon monoxide the wall of Moody’s Pub facing Thorn- detection system COMMITTEE REPORTS dale. A photo session is being planned for New system is not operational yet due to 1) Captain’s Walk – Violette Deschamps our Lobby; details to follow. problems with new louvers. See Renovation of front portion of mall, 9) Social, Cultural & Entertainment – management report, page 3. including new windows and drop ceiling, Sandy Chaet 6) Stack effect: loading dock enclosure has been nearly completed. A happy hour in honor of St. Patrick’s Day Project will be divided into two parts: 2) Communications, Dialogue & TV – will take place Friday, March 15, 6:00- installation of air lock near door to dock Thomas Vaughan 8:30 p.m, in Windjammer Room. Street area and installation of roll-up doors in Committee will meet Jan. 29 to determine sale on Glenlake is being planned for loading area. what specs to include in RFP for potential summer. 7) Urban design and landscaping bidders on new TV and internet con- 10)Units – Carl Stahlheber beautification tracts. Committee will choose three or four sets See Landscaping Committee above. 3) Employees’ Holiday Fund – Thomas of finishes for renovated units that can be 8) Lobby, fourth floor, hallways master Vaughan cycled through without committee plan Owners and residents contributed intervening each time. See management report, page 3. $44,000 to fund, up 10% from 2017. See 9) Door staff uniform article in January Dialogue for more MANAGEMENT REPORT – Violette Management suggests buying stylish details. Deschamps uniforms for door staff. 4) Floor Representatives – Sam Bullock Items requiring Board action 10)Convenience store status Rather than reviving the floor represent- 1) D&O insurance renewal New store operator said David’s Market atives concept, committee suggests a Board approved a renewal policy for would open Jan. 25. quarterly town hall, to which all directors and officers insurance at 7.7% 11)Beauty salon space residents would be invited. Residents increase over past year. Space has been listed with commercial would be encouraged to voice ideas and 2) 7F renovation for sale real estate broker; one potential operator comments, facilitated by Board member. Directors approved a vendor’s proposal expressed interest. 5) Garage – Martina Molins to renovate Association-owned unit 7F 12)Realtor lease/sale reports Garage was 77 cars below capacity as of per RFP. Nothing new. Dec. 31 – a historically high vacancy rate. 3) 5D repairs for leasing 13)Association-owned units Eleven residents were on waiting list for Board accepted a vendor’s proposal to Of 13 units owned by Association as of single self-parking spaces. One damage make limited repairs in Association- Dec. 31, eight were being rented, four claim was made in December; it was owned unit 5D before it is offered for were listed for sale, and one was being denied. lease. renovated. 6) Green 4) Reserve study consultation 14)Alternative energy program Director Martina Molins suggested that Directors decided to interview four Board authorized management to do an management distribute to each resident a bidders before choosing one to conduct a email blast containing information about list of what’s recyclable and what’s not, reserve study. 5) Telephone system replacement (Continued on page 5) February 2019 Page 3 defects and water leaks of the west What’s happening around the building façade of the tower. We expect the study to be submitted for discussion by By Violette Deschamps, Malibu East Manager spring. The remediation options proposed by KGH will be assessed by the Architecture & Aesthetics Commit- COMPLAINT PROCEDURE: We be displayed in the Lobby later in tee and the Board. The selected wrote an article in the January Dialogue February showing both options that are remediation option is likely to be about the complaint procedure recently currently being discussed for locations implemented in 2020 as part of Phase adopted by the Board of Directors. As a and access. A survey will accompany IV of the façade and balcony project. clarification, this procedure relates to the boards enabling residents to Should you experience increased or complaints involving the Association express their preferences, comments previously undisclosed water leaks and unit owners. For instance, a unit and ideas. seeping into your unit (look for signs of owner challenging late fees on his/her RENOVATION MASTER PLAN FOR damage around electrical outlets, or on account may file a complaint form, or COMMON AREAS: WEA Design is ceilings or at the floor junctions with an owner who wishes to complain preparing the drawings to document the exterior walls) during or after about staff members or vendors hired the existing conditions of the east windy rains, please take a few pictures by the Association may file a form. portion of the floor, and the Lobby and of the leaks and damage and email them Please note that complaints associated its auxiliary service rooms. These to the property manager at with civil matters involving residents, drawings will be followed by the ([email protected]). guests and other individuals other than submittal of the first preliminary The information will be forwarded to the Association or the Association’s proposal for the renovation of these architects KGH in an effort to assist agents are excluded from this proce- areas. them in their assessment of the existing dure. Civil matters must be addressed BEAUTY SALON: Directors of the conditions and the work to be per- by and among the involved parties with Board are well aware that residents are formed. the support of other means, such as hoping that another operator will be GREEN COMMITTEE: The Green hiring an attorney or contacting 911. found to run a beauty salon business in Committee was recently created. The Unit owners or renters of Association- the commercial mall. The Association’s members of this committee will focus owned units who wish to file a com- real estate broker has been promoting on the recycling education and other plaint can obtain the complaint form by the space and contacting organizations environmental themes, such as renewa- contacting management. The complaint and prospective tenants since early ble energy (solar panels, wind turbines form must be submitted by law as January. Unfortunately, there is no solid and the like), energy savings, compost- follows: It has to be addressed to the prospect thus far. The Board is willing ing, etc. Please contact management Association’s president and mailed, sent to discuss terms with an existing beauty should you want to be added to the via messenger or handed to manage- salon business, or a manager (specific membership of this committee. ment, or emailed to chair times), or a startup business STACK EFFECT: The carbon monox- [email protected]. interested in the location and its ide project installed in the garage is PETS: On a positive note, the number potential. Please share with manage- about to be completed. Once in opera- of unreported incidents involving dogs ment any ideas you may have about a tion, the computerized sensors dissemi- relieving themselves in the atrium, possible operator or individual who nated in the garage will read the level of elevators and hallways has dropped might be interested in seeing the space the carbon monoxide in the air and DOWN TO ALMOST ZERO in the last and discussing the leasing terms. activate the fans and motorized louvers two months and, more importantly, the FAÇADE AND BALCONY PROJECT: as needed. You will notice that the few incidents are now systematically The remaining work on the D and north garage will be slightly warmer during reported by their pets’ handlers at the B tiers will be completed in 2019, as the cold season even though the garage time they occur. soon as the weather permits the is not heated. This is a positive outcome DOG RUNS: In 2018 the Board hired application of the membrane on the of the computerized control system, not Jacobs Ryan Associates, an urban uncoated balconies. The additional to mention the stack effect remediation design and landscape architect, to work program for 2019 consists of and the saving on electricity resulting modernize all the current outdoor Phase III, which includes the repair from the intermittent operation of the lighting, furniture, signs and accesso- work on the brick panels of the south fresh air intake and exhaust fans, as ries (urban design), as well as the façade, and the façade and balcony opposed to the year-around and 24/7 overall landscaping. Phases One and repair work on the east facade of the A operation we have experienced thus far. Two of the project will be implemented and B tiers. Phase III will be initiated as Further, management is currently in 2019 and 2020; these phases will soon as the weather permits the working on some additional stack effect primarily address the atrium, the stripping of the old balcony membrane remediation work consisting of the corner of Sheridan and Glenlake, the on the A and B east balconies, which addition of an air lock in the lower level, parkways on both streets, and the dog may occur in February or March. We by the Receiving Room. This air lock is runs. The dog runs are the subject of will disseminate the schedule ahead of designed to maximize control of the discussions related to their location; the time as soon as it is confirmed by RBS, cold air transferred into the building Board wishes to hear from you about our contractor for the project. during moves and deliveries taking the options proposed by the landscape KGH, our project consultant, is (Continued on page 8) architect. To that effect, two boards will preparing a study to remediate the Page 4 February 2019 Community WhiteCraneWellness.org 1131 W. Sheridan THEATER/SHOWINGS 773-508-7510 Calendar luc.edu/ralpharnoldgallery CITY LIT THEATER RAVEN THEATRE By Neil Warner “Fuente Ovejuna” by Lope de Vega “How I Learned to Drive” by Paula Set against the backdrop of war for Vogel COMMUNITY AFFAIRS the Spanish throne on the eve of its From behind the wheel of a ‘56 BROADWAY ARMORY discovering the New World, the play Chevy, a woman named Li’l Bit Indoor park, six gym floors, trapeze is the true story of a young woman in navigates the tangled boulevards of classes, senior activities, athletic a Spanish village who inspires and her adolescence in mid-’60s rural equipment, meeting room, computer leads a rebellion against the military Maryland, reflecting on her complex center, dancing floor, shuffleboard, governor’s sexual exploitation of and troubling relationship with her weights, arts and crafts, aerobics, local women. family. A Pulitzer Prize winner. ping pong, after-school activities and Thru Feb. 17 Feb. 7 thru March 24 more. Edgewater Presbyterian Church 6157 N. Clark Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. 1020 W. Bryn Mawr 773-338-2177 Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 773-293-3682 raventheatre.com 5917 N. Broadway citylit.org REDTWIST THEATRE 312-742-7502 GALLERY 1070 “Between Riverside and Crazy” by goo.gl/MSZSES The Winter Show Stephen Adly Guirgis CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT A selection of wall art for sale: In this 2015 Pulitzer Prize winner, Beat 2433 CAPS meeting painters/photographers, jewelry, we meet Pops, an ex-cop and Tuesday, Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m. pottery, candles and other mediums. widower clinging to one of the last Engine 70 fire house Thru Feb. 24, 12-6 p.m. Thu.-Sun. rent-controlled apartments in NYC, 6030 N. Clark (use north entrance) 1070 W. Granville dealing with a never-ending swirl of (3rd Tuesday of each month) edgewaterartists.com demands from family, friends, former EDGEWATER BRANCH LIBRARY LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO colleagues and a shady church lady … Check out their book clubs and other “Failure: A Love Story” by Philip until he resolves to draw the line and events. Dawkins make some demands of his own. 6000 N. Broadway The clock is ticking as the three Fail Thru Feb. 10 Mon. and Wed.: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. sisters approach their untimely 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Tue. and Thu.: noon-8 p.m. deaths in Chicago in 1928. Music and 773-728-7529 Fri. and Sat.: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. dark wit inform this whimsical fable. redtwist.org (closed on Sundays) Feb. 14-24 STEEP THEATRE 312-742-1945 Newhart Family Theatre “Red Rex” by Ike Holter chipublib.org/locations/28 Dance Senior Solo Showcase 2019 A small theater company embarks on EDGEWATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY Each of Loyola’s six seniors will an explosive new play with the hope Current exhibits: “The Chicago perform a solo created by an of finally breaking it big. When the Conspiracy Trial: One Juror’s Ordeal” internationally acclaimed choreogra- ensemble realizes their source and “Edgewater Beach Hotel: 100 pher and an ensemble piece. material might not be as original as Years Later” Feb. 16-17, noon once assumed, they are thrust into a Regular museum hours: Palm Court (4th floor) confrontation with residents of their Saturday and Sunday 1-4 p.m. Instrumental Showcase community. 5358 N. Ashland Ave. Featuring Loyola’s wind ensemble, Thru March 2 773-506-4849 jazz ensemble and symphony 1115 W. Berwyn www.EdgewaterHistory.org orchestra. 773-649-3186 EDGEWATER SATELLITE SENIOR Wed., Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. steeptheatre.com CENTER Mundelein Auditorium UNDERSCORE THEATRE Organized activities for seniors, All of the above events are held at the Chicago Musical Theatre Festival Monday through Friday, throughout Mundelein Center for the Fine and Created to showcase musical theater the year. Performing Arts, 1020 W. Sheridan creators from Chicago and beyond, Broadway Armory Park artsevents.luc.edu/events this year’s festival features full 5917 N. Broadway RALPH ARNOLD GALLERY productions of nine new musicals 312-742-5323 2019 Student Juried Show plus two free readings. WHITE CRANE WELLNESS CENTER All students are invited to submit Feb. 4-24 Adult day wellness programs for work to the Annual Student Art The Edge Theater persons 60 and over. Gentle yoga, tai Competition, including drawing, 5451 N. Broadway chi, music, exercise, lunch and painting, photography, color theory, cmtf.org snacks. two- and three-dimensional design, Transportation provided within graphic design, ceramics and Receiving Room is open boundary area. sculpture, and any combination 1355 W. Foster Ave. thereof. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays 773-271-9001 Thru Feb. 15 until further notice February 2019 Page 5 Fire extinguisher demo A. Burning paper, wood, cloth and fire extinguishers must be inspected CO2 and dry chemicals ordinary combustibles, including yearly for certification, an annual some plastics. These can be put out professional examination is not needed for breakfast with water (removing the heat) or for those in residential use. However, By Ron Cohn with a multipurpose fire extinguish- he emphasized, you should diligently On a gray and frigid Saturday er. inspect your own extinguisher monthly, morning, Jan. 19, 30-plus Malibu East B. Oil and grease, paint, gasoline, using this quick check: residents were defrosted by an in- propane and butane. These fires • Be sure it’s where you think it is. formative, entertaining presentation on require carbon dioxide from a • Be sure it’s visible and accessible. fires, fire extinguishers, and how to use multipurpose fire extinguisher to • Be sure the gauge shows it’s fully what and when. remove the oxygen from the needed pressurized. If the pressure drops Accompanied by a background track mix. below the recommended range, take of crashing waves just outside the C. Electrical fires are also put out by a it in to get it recharged or buy a new Windjammer Room, Dan Marks of multipurpose fire extinguisher. one. Martin Mack Fire Safety Equipment Co., Class D (burning metal) and Class K Remember: To stay as safe as the Association’s fire safety equipment (commercial deep fat, such as oil and possible in your condo, have a working vendor, made an hour go quickly with grease) fires require different types of ABC fire extinguisher that is easily slides, demos, audience participation fire extinguishers that are not needed accessible. It’s a relatively inexpensive and a quiz. A lively, charismatic for home use. insurance policy that could prove presenter, Marks displayed a compete The one fire extinguisher you need invaluable in an emergency. command of his subject and made sure A multipurpose dry chemical ABC everyone walked out with the needed fire extinguisher is effective against the know-how on dealing with fires in the three classes of fire posing a threat to home. As promised, hardy souls were you at home. There is one in each Board meeting notes given a chance to go out on the north stairwell on every floor of Malibu East. (Continued from page 2) deck and put out a blaze (imaginary, You should check to make sure you due to the strong wind) with impres- know where it is. It is recommended alternative energy suppliers. sive blasts from the latest word in that a smaller version be readily multipurpose dry chemical extinguish- accessible in your kitchen. Make sure it Open session ended at 9:17 p.m. and went ers. carries a highly visible pictogram label into closed session. Open meeting resumed showing A B C. at 10:05 p.m. In case of fire, remember three A’s ACTIVATE the building alarm RATIFICATION OF CLOSED SESSION system or, in our case, phone 911 and ITEMS 1) Board voted to fine an owner $400 for then the door staff; excessive noise and abuse of Association ASSIST persons who might need help employee. getting out of danger; 2) Board voted for fine an owner $700 for ATTEMPT to extinguish the fire, verbal abuse and making a threat against but ... Association employee. • only if it’s small and contained, 3) Board voted to reinstate the payment • only if you are safe from toxic plan of former renter, including legal smoke, fees. Photo by Tracy Poyser • only if you have a means of escape, 4) Board will send a letter to resident Sandy Chaet, in her dual role as • and only if your instincts aren’t warning about exiting the property via chairs of the Security & Life Safety and telling you, “Get out!” driveway. Social committees, planned and ran the 5) Board will send a letter to a resident event, which included an opportunity to Using a fire extinguisher, remember advising them of 15-minute parking areas and warning that another parking purchase a fire extinguisher through PASS violation will result in a fine. Marks’ company. PULL pin out. It’s located at the top 6) Board voted to allow a handicap Three elements needed for a fire of the extinguisher’s neck, and it locks accommodation to front door of unit. We first learned that every fire the valve closed. requires three elements: oxygen, heat AIM at the base of the fire, staying Meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m. and fuel. If one of these is removed, the eight feet back from the flames. fire is defeated. Keeping these elements SQUEEZE the operating lever, Special meeting of unit owners separate (isolating oil, paint, rags, old holding the extinguisher upright. Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019 papers, etc., away from heat sources, SWEEP the discharge spray from Presiding: President Marcel Molins heating coils and open flames) is a key side to side in a narrow range, concen- 1) Purchase of 5D to fire prevention. trating on the fire’s front edge and Owners unanimously approved a Five classes of fires backing away from the fire as you resolution authorizing the Board to We then were shown that there are sweep. Keep squeezing until the exercise its right of first refusal on sale of five distinct classes of fires, three of extinguisher is empty. unit 5D for $200,000, plus or minus which can occur in an apartment Maintain your fire extinguisher prorations. President Molins voted environment: Marks said that although commercial proxies in favor of exercise. Page 6 February 2019 Restaurant review garlic-flavored fish is accompanied by green peppers and the accompaniments Standard fare at Edge- grilled zucchini and green rice. Debbie of guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, had a large, tasty chicken burrito. I shredded lettuce and Oaxacan cheese, water Mexican Café chose the ensalada de calamar, a green as well as warm tortillas and sides of salad with squid and cilantro dressing, rice and beans. By Beth Robinson a dish that I have ordered several times Neil went for a delicious regional When longtime neigh- in the past. dish from the Yucatan – cochinita pibil – borhood fixture That Little tender, spicy pork shoulder marinated Mexican Cafe announced in pineapple juice and achiote and that it was closing last slowly cooked in a banana leaf. Howev- year, Ruben Knight, an employee there er, the small portion of meat, rice and for close to 14 years, decided to step in beans left him wishing that the waiter and purchase the restaurant. Last fall it had not forgotten to bring the tortillas reopened as the Edgewater Mexican that were supposed to accompany the Cafe , maintaining the same de cor and meal. many of the same menu items. Service was friendly though slow- Eleven curious Dialogue Diners paced. Prices are reasonable, ranging braved the cold weather to visit the from $9 to $25 for an entre e. new restaurant. At the entry is a bar Edgewater Mexican Cafe continues in and beyond it is seating surrounded by the footsteps of its predecessor as a Photo by Tracy Poyser brightly colored walls, large carved casual, friendly neighborhood locale for parrots and tin lantern lights suspend- The fajitas, enchilada and taco standard Mexican restaurant fare. ed from the ceiling, reminiscent of a platters were light on seasoning. Tracy Located at Bryn Mawr and Winthrop, it warm patio south of the border with asked for a bowl of green salsa to add is a pleasant walk from Malibu East lively Latin music playing in the some zest to her shrimp tacos and rice. during warmer weather and has a small background. A large table for 10 Mary thought the beans were lacking parking lot in the rear, in addition to awaited us (though we had a reserva- and the three small tortillas provided street parking. tion for 12), so the last to arrive were insufficient for the shrimp tacos. grabbed a chair from another table and Ron prefers mild seasoning and, not Edgewater Mexican Cafe we settled in to check out the menu and surprisingly, got the fajitas because it is 1055 W. Bryn Mawr the evening specials. the only dish he ever orders in Mexican 773-944-0357 Our server took drink orders and restaurants. He liked the presentation edgewatermexicancafe.com brought good-sized margaritas served of the ample serving of tender chicken Sun.-Thu.: 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. in heavy stemless glasses (with the fajitas sizzling on a grill with onions and Fri.-Sat.: 11 a.m.-midnight Edgewater margarita only $6 each during happy hour). He reappeared with a cart to make the guacamole appetizer we requested for the table. We chose the well-prepared medium version, though in retrospect some would have opted for spicy. The menu contains many Mexican restaurant standards – tacos, fajitas, burritos and enchiladas – as well as some less typical meat and fish dishes. Several dishes stood out. Nancy enjoyed the tilapia al ajillo, as did her dog and cat who got the leftovers. The mildly

Buying • Selling • Renting • Management Your Sheridan Road Condo Specialists If you are thinking of selling, please come in for a free market analysis.

773-334-0200 Helen Wagner February 2019 Page 7

Edgewater: A mid-century Belmont Harbor. Then came the first Kind of scary like a Riverview ride when reminiscence glimpse of the , usually first experienced as an eight-year-old, it Landmark hotel from the Belmont Avenue overpass, and became the feature of adventure tours I finally the fantastic Potter Palmer Castle at conducted myself for grammar school captures imagination Schiller Street, where we hoped heavy friends – until we were escorted to the By Ron Cohn traffic would slow the bus to give us a door. Second in a series. lingering look. The mystique of the hotel as a story- I was 12 when we moved My personal relationship to the book setting for drama and romance was from Rogers Park to Edgewater Beach Hotel was intense, enhanced, for us, by two bombshell events Edgewater. For six months I perhaps because of the fascination it held of my high school years. The first was the commuted by bike or bus to for my father. Although I never ate a meal shooting of , a Philadelphia Gale Elementary School, just north of there with my parents, and doubt that Phillies first baseman and former Cub, in Howard Street on Ashland, so I could they ever did on their own, my father took June 1949. He was gunned down and graduate with my friends. If I gained any me around the building and grounds like a seriously wounded by a crazed 19-year- status with them for a move from three tour guide. He showed me the Marine old groupie, Ruth Ann Steinhagen, after he furnished rooms to a grand (by compari- Dining Room, already embedded in my entered her room at the hotel – a scene son) apartment at Hollywood and imagination from the weekly network that became an important plot point years Kenmore, it was not for getting a piano radio show originating there and featuring later in the movie The Natural, based on and a room of my own. It was for the whatever famous band was in residence. the novel by Bernard Malamud. The magic inherent in the word “Edgewater,” Outside was the Beach Walk, another second, a year or two later, occurred when which conjured for my gang the nearly dining and show venue, overlooking the private detectives employed by his wife half mile of pastel towers and manicured quarter-mile of beach commanded by the broke down the door to bandleader Xavier gardens of the great hotel that defined the hotel. In high school and college, my dates Cugat’s suite to catch him in flagrante neighborhood. and I could get close enough on summer delicto with his young singer Abbe Lane. When we took the double-deck bus nights to see and hear the Ames Brothers, She famously covered herself from a downtown, usually from the front seats Mills Brothers and other top acts free of photographer by clutching a robe to upstairs, the Edgewater Beach Hotel was charge. herself, not realizing she was standing in the first of a series of avidly anticipated A favorite spot just off the lobby and front of a full-length mirror. landmarks that stoked our building Marine Dining Room was the cocktail Coming irregularly in future Dialogue excitement on the long ride down lounge, called, as I remember, The Yacht issues, memories of Sheridan Road, the Sheridan Road and . The Club. Dimly lit through portholes, it was Boulevard of Dreams; Bryn Mawr, main next were the clock tower at Waveland, reached through a dark, canvas-enclosed street of my youth; the shady kings of Swift followed almost immediately by the totem tunnel via a bouncy, rope-railed gang- Playground; and the invasion of the four- pole and the yachts docked (in season) at plank over an underlit, water-filled moat. plus-ones. Chestnut Organizing & Cleaning Service 312-332-5575 “C” unit for sale ... especially for people who need an organizing service because of depression, elderly, physical or mental challenges in early 2019 or other causes of your home’s clutter, disorganization, dysfunction. Most desirable 2 bd / 2 bth We also organize and clean for the deceased in lieu of having the bereaved needing to do this preparation (to sell or rent facing lake / south – downtown the deceased’s home). Longtime references in this building. Kitchen & master bath remodeled Please visit our website for more information about us: www.ChestnutCleaning.com Inquiries: [email protected]

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Contract pending on 38F Recently listed: 39D, 31G Units for rent: 36E, 37K, 31K Page 8 February 2019 James Sherman College. At DePaul, he teaches a course Management report (Continued from page 1) intriguingly titled “American Funny: (Continued from page 3) American Comedy from Groucho Marx of My Big Fat Greek Wedding was to Tina Fey,” and at Columbia he place during the cold season. The perfectly cast as the mother, Seymour teaches playwriting and improvisation- construction of an air lock will likely be Cassel of The Royal Tenenbaums as the al acting. Students enrolling in those followed by the installation of roll-up father, and Robyn Cohen, who had courses are treated to a likable, witty doors enclosing the loading dock area played the role on the stage, was Sarah. and impressive teacher who debunks to further increase control of the cold Like many indie films, Beau Jest the old saw “Those who can, do. Those air transfer into the building. It is never achieved a theatrical release, but who can’t, teach.” It’s hard to imagine predictable that moves and deliveries it was shown at a number of festivals anyone who has done more or can may be slowed down given the new air and was booked for a week at the bring a wider array of successful lock and loading dock doors. This is a Wilmette Theater, where it enjoyed a experiences to the lectern than James compromise needed to decrease the great audience reaction and was held Sherman. stack effect in the building, which has over for an additional week. countless negative impacts on the James has said that the play was part operation of the elevators and doors of a “romantic comedy” of their own for Board meeting dates and causes significant heat loss on the him and his former wife, who played February 26 September 17 lower level and first floor. Sarah in the original stage production. March 26 (annual meeting) SATELLITE TV INCREASE: Please They have two sons in their early 20s, April 23 October 22 note that USA Wireless has increased both of whom already have extensive May 28 November 26 the rate of the basic cable TV program- experience as actors and singers. June 25 (budget adoption) ming to $27.94 per month, effective James “loves Malibu East,” its staff July 23 December 17 Feb. 1. The 5% ($1.33 monthly) and its amenities – even buying his own August 27 increase per unit is the maximum that pool cue to give him an edge in the is allowed under the current bulk Billiard Room. Before moving here, he 2018-19 Board of Directors contract. owned a three-flat in Lakeview but says CONVENIENCE STORE: Please note he has been very glad to give up being a that the operator has opened its landlord. “Another thing I love here is store as a “soft opening.” The grand being surrounded by so many small opening will follow once the liquor theaters. I thought I’d lose that when I and cigarette licenses are issued and left the Lincoln and Belmont area,” he delivered. said, “but here we have Jackalope, Redtwist, City Lit, Raven and more within walking distance.” James has been honored to serve as a member of the Joseph Jefferson The Dialogue Malibu East Committee, the definitive arbiter of The Malibu East Condominium Dialogue is Condominium excellence in Chicago theater, and as published by resident volunteers to promote 6033 N. Sheridan Road such actually sees virtually every communication among owners, residents, the Chicago IL 60660-3003 theatrical production mounted locally. Board of Directors, management and staff of 773-271-1732 Malibu East Condominium, 6033 North Sheridan Marcel Molins, Board President He estimates that in 2018 he saw Road, Chicago, IL 60660. “between 150 and 160 plays.” Violette Deschamps, Malibu East Manager Articles written by and opinions of the Malibu Melody Keegan, Administrative Assistant It’s difficult to see how he has the East Condominium Dialogue staff and contributors Tom Vaughan, Chairman of the time, but currently James has been are their personal views and do not necessarily Communications Committee performing a one-character play he represent the views of Malibu East Condominium Larry Rosen, Webmaster or its Board of Directors and management. wrote, titled The Ben Hecht Show, at www.MalibuEast.org Evanston’s Piven Theatre and at other Letters to the Malibu East Condominium Dialogue Committee Committee are encouraged. Its staff reserves the [email protected] venues around the country. Portraying right to edit those letters which it sees fit to print Neil Warner, Editor the colorful journalist and author, and to print only those with constructive content. Letters to the Dialogue Committee may be left at Tracy Poyser, Photo Editor perhaps best-known as the co-author of the management office. Larry Rosen, Graphics Editor The Front Page, James says he was Bob Butler Ron Cohn influenced by reading Hecht’s book Advertising disclaimer Dianne Fishering Guide for the Bedevilled. “I think he The Dialogue neither endorses nor promotes in Jo Gayle deserves to be remembered,” James whole or part any advertising printed in the Zohreh Ghavamshahidi Dialogue newsletter or included as a separate Katie Heffernan said, “and because the issues he raises insert. The content of such advertising is the sole Ken Ilio about the history of the Jews and anti- responsibility of the advertiser and is paid for by Helen Lambin Semitism are remarkably relevant to the advertiser. Advertising fees are used to defray Rosemary Lambin the publication cost of the Dialogue. Myrna Manners today’s world.” Ethel Mullin For more than 12 years, besides Copyright © 2019 Malibu East Condominium. All rights reserved. This material may not be Tracy Poyser acting and writing, our busy neighbor duplicated or distributed without written Beth Robinson has been on the adjunct faculties of permission from authorized representatives of Nancy Stoesser Lori Ziesmer both DePaul University and Columbia Malibu East Condominium.