CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – PORTAGE PARK, LAKEVIEW, LOOP, GOLD COAST, OAK PARK
PORTAGE PARK
After a false start last year, Metra is poised to relaunch the city's North Side plan to replace 22 bridges along the Union Pacific North line and rebuild the Ravenswood commuter station. Construction crews should be starting this month. The first phase, lasting until 2015, will involve 11 bridges from Balmoral south to Grace Street. The second phase, lasting until 2019, will revamp bridges between Cornelia and Fullerton avenues.
LAKEVIEW
Northcenter's restaurants are dishing out a tasting menu of culinary delights. For the price of a single meal, you can sample the cuisine at several Northcenter restaurants. Try a new one or visit a favorite. All in one incredibly delicious night! Visit the Northcenter Chamber's website for the updated restaurant list and menu offerings. Tickets are $30 per/person in advance online or $35 the day of the event, October 19 from 5-9pm.
LOOP
Brace yourself for III Forks, a Shangri-la of a steakhouse, opening Wednesday in Lakeshore East. When you're here for business, take one of the private rooms to wow investors with your ability to juggle a PowerPoint presentation, country-fried prime rib, maybe a deep-fried rock lobster tail and a scotch or two. But should you find yourself in need of a little fresh air, head for the rooftop deck-filled with heated cabanas, fire pits, a full bar, skyline views and a special menu with something called Duck & Waffles.
GOLD COAST
The Pump Room has gotten an overhaul as part of Ian Schrager's revision of the iconic Ambassador East. With champagne-bubble-esque chandeliers and a steady DJ beat it's time to bring out a new suit. They've ditched the menu and celeb photos, except for some classics like wiener schnitzel. You'll find gourmet burgers, pizzas and Thai-spiced fish. As for the famed photo collection of Shaun Cassidy, Monty Hall, Phyllis Diller, et al: it's moved to the lower level near the restroom. Sorry, Monty.
OAK PARK
Iman Shumpert, 2011 NBA first round draft pick of the New York Knicks and former YMCA Youth Basketball League member, will speak Saturday, October 15 at Noon during the Y's Youth 2 on 2 basketball event at the West Cook YMCA. The Y's 2 on 2 basketball event is FREE for youth in grades 1 - 4 and open to the community. Those interested in participating can register at the West Cook YMCA.
CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
