About us
HELP WANTED: No pay. Mostly thankless. Orphans preferred. (Be sure to click READ MORE for full info)::
Folks: For the upcoming, post-covid era would like to focus on smaller museums (the AIC, MCA, etc's are therefore excluded). Hopefully followed by a "after-party"/late lunch in the area?
There is NO limit on the museums/events we focus on (as long as there is a art factor): Art/Events? History/Art(NMMA)? Ethnic/Art? The War Between Dogs and Cats... in Art! haha.
Got ideas? Bonus points will go to those who would you like to be the event leader/host/docent. Let me know. NOTE: Hosting is really nothing more then being there "first" and saying "hi"!
jim
Our Mission Statement:
Everything about our group flows from our motto: "We are stranger's only once".
This group is for art, museum & live music lovers of all ilk's.
We call ourselves the Chicago Art Critic's Association - "CACA" for short. Its pronounced like a cat having a bad fur-ball moment. Why "critic's" you ask? All art, museum & music lovers are critics by default! Tell your friends and especially that "jerk at work" you are now a member-in-good standing of the Chicago Art Critic's Association! Watch their jaws drop.
1. Our mission is to attend gallery openings, fairs & cultural fests, museum's and music events in and around Chicago. Plus a few odd-lots Join us as we discover new talent, visit new & established galleries, munch our way through art fairs, visit museums, meet old and make new friends and - yes - have a wine or beer (or two) while exploring. What's not to like?
2. My background: As your organizer and fearless leader (coff, coff), I have been enjoying and collecting art since I was a kid - living in of all places: the art district of Santa Fe, NM, Historic Ocean Beach-San Diego, the Historic District of Pass-a-Grille, Fl (before it was discovered), Andersonville, Chicago (before it was discovered) and Europe (it was already discovered!) Bottom line: I've been kicked out of lots of cities, lots of state's, lots of countries and one very nice continent!
3. Have I bored you e'nuf about me? Good! Now I need to ask you for help. For 2022 do you have a SMALL museum idea? I would like to co-ordinate an event about once a month-ish (excluding November & December - due to the holidays). I'm a firm believer in the educational aspect of such events Hopefully with a docent?
I will keep an eye on cost's: An admission-donation fee of $5-20 is fine - not so for $50-100 - however there will be occasional exceptions. Lastly I will try as best as I can, to mix-up the event times (i.e.: weekday evenings, weekend evenings and weekend days.) When appropriate I will co-op with another group. Nothing is written in stone! Got something you wanna plug? Let me know.
4.. Finding me: In order to be spotted easily my standard outfit for most events, unless the event requires otherwise, will be a BLAZE ORANGE BASEBALL HAT and, usually, blue jeans. LOOK FOR THE HAT. Overall, it's not an exciting outfit, but it makes me feel pretty! My hair & mustache are koala grey (Some say "salt & pepper" - but they are mean, little people whose mothers don't love them.)
8. Here is a short article on "How To Buy Art" (Chicago Magazine - Sept. 2017): http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/September-2017/How-to-Buy-Art/
jim
Featured event
⛪✨ Heaven in Brick & Gold: Inside St. Barbara Catholic Church 🕯️🏛️
⛪✨ Heaven in Brick & Gold: Inside St. Barbara Catholic Church 🕯️🏛️
🌿 A Polish Cathedral Masterpiece: An Inspiring Morning Inside One of Chicago’s Grandest Historic Churches ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church, a spectacular and deeply historic Catholic landmark on Chicago’s South Side. Known for its monumental scale, ornate interior, and strong ties to the city’s Polish immigrant community, St. Barbara offers an unforgettable look at faith, artistry, and neighborhood history.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking tour — allowing us to slow down and truly appreciate the church’s architecture, artwork, symbolism, and history in a peaceful and reflective setting.
Expect soaring ceilings, dramatic altars, rich stained glass, devotional shrines, and stories that connect Catholic tradition with Chicago’s industrial and immigrant past. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, February 14, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church 2859 S. Throop St., Chicago
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted as I submit one group donation)
⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start and submit payment directly to me so I can provide one group donation to the church.
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any guidance from our hosts.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A breathtaking historic sanctuary
🎨 Elaborate religious art, murals, and stained glass
🕯️ Side altars, candles, and devotional elements
📜 The story of the parish and Chicago’s Polish Catholic community
🏛️ Architectural details of the Polish Cathedral–style tradition
This visit takes place entirely inside the church and immediate grounds.
***
📖 About St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church
Founded in 1910, St. Barbara Parish was established to serve Polish immigrants who settled near Chicago’s booming industrial corridor of rail yards, factories, and stockyards. Named for St. Barbara, patron saint of miners and workers in dangerous trades, the parish became a spiritual refuge for laboring families seeking faith, stability, and community.
The current church building, completed in the 1910s, is a stunning example of the Polish Cathedral style — a uniquely American expression of Catholic architecture characterized by monumental scale, classical influences, lavish ornamentation, and an emphasis on beauty as an act of devotion.
Inside, the church is richly adorned with:
- Grand altars
- Painted ceilings and murals
- Sculptural details
- Stained glass honoring saints, sacraments, and Polish religious heritage
Every element was designed to inspire awe, reinforce Catholic teaching, and reflect the pride and sacrifice of the immigrant community that built it.
For generations, St. Barbara served as a cultural, spiritual, and social anchor — hosting baptisms, weddings, funerals, festivals, and daily worship that shaped neighborhood life. As demographics evolved, the parish continued to adapt while preserving its extraordinary artistic and architectural legacy.
Today, St. Barbara remains an active parish and a treasured landmark — one of Chicago’s most impressive examples of early 20th-century Catholic church design.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.
***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated)
***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking available nearby (check posted signs)
• Metered parking on nearby main streets
• Residential side streets often available
• Area can be busy — arriving early is recommended
• SpotHero or ParkWhiz may be helpful
***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation
***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful Valentine’s weekend experience exploring Catholic faith, immigrant history, and sacred art — all inside one of Chicago’s most awe-inspiring neighborhood churches. ✨⛪✨ A Medieval Jewel in Edgewater: St. Gregory the Great Church Visit 🕯️🏛️
🌿 An Inspiring Afternoon Inside One of Edgewater’s Most Beautiful Historic Churches ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church, a beloved Catholic landmark in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood. Known for its striking architecture, breathtaking sanctuary, and deep roots in the city’s immigrant history, St. Gregory offers a powerful glimpse into faith, community, and neighborhood life on the North Side.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking tour — allowing us to slow down and truly appreciate the church’s architecture, artwork, symbolism, and history in a peaceful and reflective setting.
Expect soaring spaces, stunning stained glass, sacred imagery, candlelight, and stories that connect Catholic tradition with the development of Edgewater itself. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, February 7, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church 5545 N. Paulina St.
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted as I submit one group donation)
⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start and submit payment directly to me so I can provide one group donation to the church.
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any guidance from our hosts.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A beautiful historic sanctuary
🎨 Religious art and stained glass
🕯️ Candles, devotional elements, and sacred symbolism
📜 The story of the parish and Edgewater’s immigrant Catholic communities
🏛️ Architectural details reflecting early 20th-century church design
This visit takes place entirely inside the church and immediate grounds.
***
📖 About St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church
St. Gregory the Great has served Chicago’s North Side since 1904, when Luxembourger immigrants petitioned for the creation of a new parish to serve the rapidly growing Edgewater community. As the neighborhood evolved from lakeside farmland into a vibrant residential district, the parish quickly became a spiritual and cultural anchor.
The current church building, completed in the 1920s, is officially classified as Norman Gothic in style — reflecting French influences on English architecture following the Norman Conquest of 1066. It stands as one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the Archdiocese of Chicago.
At the dedication ceremony, George Cardinal Mundelein famously described St. Gregory’s as “a medieval jewel in a modern setting.”
Every artistic and architectural element within the church — from paintings and sculpture to arches, shrines, and stained glass — carries symbolic meaning. The interior invites visitors on a spiritual journey from darkness to light, Alpha to Omega, life to death to rebirth.
The founding pastor, Msgr. Michael Klasen, created a booklet titled The Church Beautiful, explaining the symbolism behind the church’s design and sacred artwork — many of which we will discuss during our visit.
Named for Pope St. Gregory the Great, the 6th-century pope known for strengthening the early Church, promoting sacred music (Gregorian chant), and expanding Christian education, the parish reflects his legacy of faith, beauty, and teaching.
Over the decades, St. Gregory has served generations of immigrant families — including Luxembourger, Irish, German, Polish, and later Latino parishioners — mirroring the evolving story of Edgewater itself.
Today, the church remains an active and welcoming parish, celebrated for its magnificent interior and enduring role in the neighborhood.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.
***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated)
***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking available nearby (check posted signs)
• Metered parking along Bryn Mawr, Ashland & Ravenswood
• Residential side streets often available
• Area can be busy due to lakefront & Loyola — arriving early is recommended
• SpotHero or ParkWhiz also helpful
***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation
***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful opportunity to experience Catholic faith, sacred art, and Edgewater history — all inside one of Chicago’s most beautiful neighborhood churches. ✨🕯️🏛️Gold, Icons & Tradition: St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church Tour ✨⛪
🌿 An Inspiring Afternoon Inside One of Chicago’s Most Beautiful Orthodox Landmarks ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church, a stunning sacred space on Chicago’s North Side and a beloved spiritual home for generations of Greek-American families. This church is known for its breathtaking interior, rich Orthodox symbolism, and powerful sense of tradition and community.
This immersive experience explores Orthodox faith, iconography, ritual, and immigrant history, all within an awe-inspiring setting filled with sacred art and architectural beauty.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking route or neighborhood stroll — allowing us to slow down and truly absorb the art, architecture, iconography, and spiritual atmosphere of this remarkable church.
Expect vivid icons, gold accents, candlelight, incense, and meaningful stories of faith and immigration — all shared in a respectful and informative setting. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, January 31, 2026
⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church 5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 Cost: $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle/Venmo/PayPal are accepted if needed so I can submit one group donation)
⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start of the tour and submit payment directly to me so I can give to the church
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any onsite guidance.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A beautiful Orthodox sanctuary filled with sacred atmosphere
🎨 Traditional Orthodox iconography and stunning artwork
🕯️ Candles, incense, and sacred ritual elements
📜 The history of the parish and its immigrant roots
🏛️ Architectural and artistic details that reflect Orthodox tradition and spiritual meaning
This visit takes place entirely inside the church and its immediate grounds.
***
📖 About St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church
Built in 1926, St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church has been a spiritual and cultural anchor on Chicago’s North Side for nearly a century. As the surrounding neighborhood evolved through generations — shaped by waves of immigration, lakefront growth, and the vibrant mix of communities that define this part of the city — St. Andrew’s remained a steady presence, offering faith, tradition, and connection.
The church reflects the deep roots of Greek-American families who helped build and strengthen Chicago, creating a home away from home where language, customs, and religious life could be preserved and passed down. For many, St. Andrew’s was not only a place of worship, but also a gathering space for community life — a setting for baptisms, weddings, memorials, celebrations, and the rhythms of Orthodox holidays that continue to shape the parish today.
Like many Orthodox churches, the interior is designed to teach and inspire through symbolism — from icons of Christ and the saints, to sacred imagery that fills the space with meaning and beauty. Whether you come for the history, the art, or the spiritual atmosphere, St. Andrew’s offers a powerful glimpse into how immigrant communities helped shape the cultural landscape of Chicago — one neighborhood and one church at a time.
Located near the lakefront in the Edgewater/Loyola area, the church sits in one of Chicago’s most welcoming and diverse neighborhoods — a community known for its mix of longtime residents, students, immigrants, and beautiful residential streets. With its close connection to the shoreline and North Side energy, this setting makes the visit feel both peaceful and distinctly Chicago.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.
***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated; cash preferred but Zelle, Venmo, PayPal accepted)
***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking is available in the surrounding area (please always check posted signs)
• Metered parking may be found along nearby main streets, including Sheridan
• Residential side streets nearby often have additional parking options
• This area can be busier due to proximity to the lakefront and Loyola/Edgewater, so consider arriving a little early or us SpotHero or ParkWhiz
***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if your plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may result in removal from future events
***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful opportunity to experience Orthodox faith, sacred art, and community history — all inside one of Chicago’s most beautiful spiritual spaces. ✨
***
Upcoming events
7
📚🍸 Get Lit! Rom-Com Night at the American Writers Museum 💕🎬
American Writers Museum, 180 N Michigan Ave, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL, US📚🍸 Get Lit! Rom-Com Night at the American Writers Museum 💕🎬
A 21+ After-Hours Museum Party in the Loop
📅 Tuesday, Feb 10, 2026
🕠 5:30–8:00 PM (Arrive anytime — feel free to come later!)
📍 180 N Michigan Ave, Chicago
🎉 EXCLUSIVE MEETUP DISCOUNTLet’s go back for one of my favorite Loop events! Once a month, the American Writers Museum stays open late for Get Lit — a nighttime museum party with cocktails, games, music, crafts, and socializing.
We’ll wander the museum after hours, explore exhibits at our own pace, play games, make crafts, enjoy themed activities, and mingle with fellow book lovers. This month’s theme is Rom-Com Night, just in time for Valentine’s Day! 💖
✨ Rom-Com Night Highlights
🎥 Meet-Cute Rom-Com Trivia
📚 Blind Date with a Book
🛍️ Meet Chicago’s romance bookstore: The Last Chapter Book Shop
🎨 DIY tote bags with rom-com quotes
🎶 Music, games & museum exploring
🍷 Beer, wine & specialty cocktail “The First Kiss” (NA options available)***
## 🎟️ TICKETS & SPECIAL DISCOUNTS (READ ALL OF THIS!)
🎫 Tickets required (can also buy at the door)
Regular Prices
• $18.54 + fees $21.05– General Admission (no drinks)
• $25 + fees $28.54 – Admission + 2 drinks
🎉 EXCLUSIVE MEETUP DISCOUNT — $10 GA + fees so $12.51!
👉 Use promo code GIOVINA10
✔️ Gets you $8.54 off General Admission
✔️ Only available ONLINE (not valid at the door)
✔️ Does not include drinks — you can:- Add drink tickets on Eventbrite
- Or buy drink tickets at the door
🎟️ Buy tickets here (use code GIOVINA10):
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-lit-rom-com-night-tickets-1969924206330💡 2-FOR-1 DEAL OPTION
• Around January 27th, AWM typically offers a limited 2-for-1 deal
• Best if you want drink-included tickets and are buying with a friend
• This is a separate deal from my discount & only available for limited time but my exclusive code works anytime!👉 Tickets are usually available at the door, but my discount cannot be used there.
***
💡 Good to Know
• 21+ only (valid photo ID required)
• Fundraiser supports AWM’s Write In Youth Education Program
• A limited number of educator-discount tickets may be available via AWM’s education newsletter
📧 Questions: education@americanwritersmuseum.org***
🚇 Getting There
CTA buses & trains nearby — Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/🚗 Parking
• Limited street parking
• Garages via SpotHero / ParkWhiz recommended
• AWM parking deal: $14 for 4 hours at Grant Park North Garage
https://www.millenniumgarages.com/american-writers-museum-parking/***
🙌 It’s a multi-meetup group event—please keep your RSVP updated and don’t be a no-show!
💖 Whether you’re coming solo, with friends, or for a cozy pre-Valentine’s night out — this is a perfect Loop evening filled with books, cocktails, laughter, and rom-com joy!
15 attendees
🎟️ 🎶 Chicago Theater Week Stop #2: $15 Greatest Night in Show Business 🎭
Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL, US🎟️ 🎶 Chicago Theater Week Stop #2: $15 Greatest Night in Show Business 🎭
Chicago Theater Week 2026 Play #2 - $15 Tix- The Greatest Night In Show Business @ Greenhouse Theater Center
Chicago Theater Week Play #2
🎶 The Greatest Night in Show Business
📅 Friday, Feb 13, 2025
⏰ 7:30 PM
📍 HGBIC Productions at Greenhouse Theater Center | , 2257 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago,
GA SeatingOur 2nd stop for Theater Week is The Greatest Night In Show Business It is a musical drama based on Judy Garland’s Carnegie Hall performance. This show, with song, follows Judy as she works through her nerves and confronting her past which lead up to this iconic night in show business history
New this year! Tickets are available on Hottix, no special codes needed!
🎟 Theater Week Deal via Hot Tix
• $15 tickets + fees (normally $22.00) — no special code
• Limited quantity — WILL sell out
👉 Buy here: https://hottix.org/shows/greenhouse-theater-center/the-greatest-night-in-show-business/
✔️ Select 2/12/25 – 7:30 PM | I/O Theater GA
-reg price $22.00 for $15! so $7.00 savings!Any issues calls Hot tix helpdesk at Phone: (312) 977-9483 or Email: help@chicagoplays.com
⚠️ Important Ticket Rules
· You must buy your own ticket
· DO NOT RSVP YES until ticket is purchased
· GA seating — we’ll meet in the bar & sit together
· High probability of value-priced tickets selling out!! - buy asap!I’ll arrive around 7:00 PM to grab seats as general admission. I may grab dinner nearby earlier & I will post a comment of where I will go for those who wish to meet & grab a bite
🍷 Food & Drinks
• No food served and no outside food allowed
• Full bar available (wine, spirits, non-alcoholic drinks allowed in theaters)
• If you want to eat, plan to do so before the show — many nearby options
• Some of us may grab a bite. I’ll post updates closer to the dateGreatest Night In Show Business
The Greatest Night In Show Business follows Judy Garland in the hours before her legendary Carnegie Hall concert. Battling self-doubt, and the weight of her past, Judy confronts memories and her own resilience with those closest to her . Through humor, heartbreak, and songs, she reclaims her voice, proving that even at her lowest, she still has something to sing about!A musical drama based on Judy Garland’s Carnegie Hall performance. This show, with song, follows Judy as she works through her nerves and confronting her past which lead up to this iconic night in show business history
Produced & Directed by: Mikey Duran
Starring:
• Lisa Lindquist as Judy Garland
• Marc Taulquist as Mort Lindsey
• Justin Peacock as Sid Luft
• Riley Tomes as Liza MinnelliGreenhouse Theater Center:
Founded in 2008, the Greenhouse Theater Center was the original home for the Body Politic Theater and Victory Gardens Theater.The Wendy and William Spatz Charitable Foundation purchased the theater building from Victory Gardens Theater with a promise to maintain the current function of the building as a multi-stage theater space. The Greenhouse Theater Center is as a non-profit "incubator" for small to mid-size theater companies, hence its name
.
This multi-stage artists' space provides five stages, dressing and staging areas, as well as office space for resident companies to grow. https://www.greenhousetheater.org/🚗 Parking: Metered street parking nearby; SpotHero/ParkWhiz recommended
🚇 CTA accessible https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/❗ No-Show Policy
3 no-shows without RSVP updates = 3-month event freeze.🎭✨ This one’s a Theater Week steal — grab tickets before they’re gone!
10 attendees⛪✨ Heaven in Brick & Gold: Inside St. Barbara Catholic Church 🕯️🏛️
St. Barbara's, 2859 S Throop, Chicago, IL, US⛪✨ Heaven in Brick & Gold: Inside St. Barbara Catholic Church 🕯️🏛️
🌿 A Polish Cathedral Masterpiece: An Inspiring Morning Inside One of Chicago’s Grandest Historic Churches ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church, a spectacular and deeply historic Catholic landmark on Chicago’s South Side. Known for its monumental scale, ornate interior, and strong ties to the city’s Polish immigrant community, St. Barbara offers an unforgettable look at faith, artistry, and neighborhood history.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking tour — allowing us to slow down and truly appreciate the church’s architecture, artwork, symbolism, and history in a peaceful and reflective setting.
Expect soaring ceilings, dramatic altars, rich stained glass, devotional shrines, and stories that connect Catholic tradition with Chicago’s industrial and immigrant past. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, February 14, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church 2859 S. Throop St., Chicago
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted as I submit one group donation)⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start and submit payment directly to me so I can provide one group donation to the church.
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any guidance from our hosts.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A breathtaking historic sanctuary
🎨 Elaborate religious art, murals, and stained glass
🕯️ Side altars, candles, and devotional elements
📜 The story of the parish and Chicago’s Polish Catholic community
🏛️ Architectural details of the Polish Cathedral–style tradition
This visit takes place entirely inside the church and immediate grounds.***
📖 About St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church
Founded in 1910, St. Barbara Parish was established to serve Polish immigrants who settled near Chicago’s booming industrial corridor of rail yards, factories, and stockyards. Named for St. Barbara, patron saint of miners and workers in dangerous trades, the parish became a spiritual refuge for laboring families seeking faith, stability, and community.The current church building, completed in the 1910s, is a stunning example of the Polish Cathedral style — a uniquely American expression of Catholic architecture characterized by monumental scale, classical influences, lavish ornamentation, and an emphasis on beauty as an act of devotion.
Inside, the church is richly adorned with:
- Grand altars
- Painted ceilings and murals
- Sculptural details
- Stained glass honoring saints, sacraments, and Polish religious heritage
Every element was designed to inspire awe, reinforce Catholic teaching, and reflect the pride and sacrifice of the immigrant community that built it.
For generations, St. Barbara served as a cultural, spiritual, and social anchor — hosting baptisms, weddings, funerals, festivals, and daily worship that shaped neighborhood life. As demographics evolved, the parish continued to adapt while preserving its extraordinary artistic and architectural legacy.
Today, St. Barbara remains an active parish and a treasured landmark — one of Chicago’s most impressive examples of early 20th-century Catholic church design.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated)***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking available nearby (check posted signs)
• Metered parking on nearby main streets
• Residential side streets often available
• Area can be busy — arriving early is recommended
• SpotHero or ParkWhiz may be helpful***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful Valentine’s weekend experience exploring Catholic faith, immigrant history, and sacred art — all inside one of Chicago’s most awe-inspiring neighborhood churches. ✨⛪✨ A Medieval Jewel in Edgewater: St. Gregory the Great Church Visit 🕯️🏛️
🌿 An Inspiring Afternoon Inside One of Edgewater’s Most Beautiful Historic Churches ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church, a beloved Catholic landmark in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood. Known for its striking architecture, breathtaking sanctuary, and deep roots in the city’s immigrant history, St. Gregory offers a powerful glimpse into faith, community, and neighborhood life on the North Side.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking tour — allowing us to slow down and truly appreciate the church’s architecture, artwork, symbolism, and history in a peaceful and reflective setting.
Expect soaring spaces, stunning stained glass, sacred imagery, candlelight, and stories that connect Catholic tradition with the development of Edgewater itself. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, February 7, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church 5545 N. Paulina St.
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted as I submit one group donation)⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start and submit payment directly to me so I can provide one group donation to the church.
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any guidance from our hosts.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A beautiful historic sanctuary
🎨 Religious art and stained glass
🕯️ Candles, devotional elements, and sacred symbolism
📜 The story of the parish and Edgewater’s immigrant Catholic communities
🏛️ Architectural details reflecting early 20th-century church designThis visit takes place entirely inside the church and immediate grounds.
***
📖 About St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church
St. Gregory the Great has served Chicago’s North Side since 1904, when Luxembourger immigrants petitioned for the creation of a new parish to serve the rapidly growing Edgewater community. As the neighborhood evolved from lakeside farmland into a vibrant residential district, the parish quickly became a spiritual and cultural anchor.The current church building, completed in the 1920s, is officially classified as Norman Gothic in style — reflecting French influences on English architecture following the Norman Conquest of 1066. It stands as one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the Archdiocese of Chicago.
At the dedication ceremony, George Cardinal Mundelein famously described St. Gregory’s as “a medieval jewel in a modern setting.”
Every artistic and architectural element within the church — from paintings and sculpture to arches, shrines, and stained glass — carries symbolic meaning. The interior invites visitors on a spiritual journey from darkness to light, Alpha to Omega, life to death to rebirth.The founding pastor, Msgr. Michael Klasen, created a booklet titled The Church Beautiful, explaining the symbolism behind the church’s design and sacred artwork — many of which we will discuss during our visit.
Named for Pope St. Gregory the Great, the 6th-century pope known for strengthening the early Church, promoting sacred music (Gregorian chant), and expanding Christian education, the parish reflects his legacy of faith, beauty, and teaching.
Over the decades, St. Gregory has served generations of immigrant families — including Luxembourger, Irish, German, Polish, and later Latino parishioners — mirroring the evolving story of Edgewater itself.
Today, the church remains an active and welcoming parish, celebrated for its magnificent interior and enduring role in the neighborhood.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated)***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking available nearby (check posted signs)
• Metered parking along Bryn Mawr, Ashland & Ravenswood
• Residential side streets often available
• Area can be busy due to lakefront & Loyola — arriving early is recommended
• SpotHero or ParkWhiz also helpful***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful opportunity to experience Catholic faith, sacred art, and Edgewater history — all inside one of Chicago’s most beautiful neighborhood churches. ✨🕯️🏛️Gold, Icons & Tradition: St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church Tour ✨⛪
🌿 An Inspiring Afternoon Inside One of Chicago’s Most Beautiful Orthodox Landmarks ✨
Join us for a special guided visit to St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church, a stunning sacred space on Chicago’s North Side and a beloved spiritual home for generations of Greek-American families. This church is known for its breathtaking interior, rich Orthodox symbolism, and powerful sense of tradition and community.
This immersive experience explores Orthodox faith, iconography, ritual, and immigrant history, all within an awe-inspiring setting filled with sacred art and architectural beauty.
This is a stationary guided church visit — no walking route or neighborhood stroll — allowing us to slow down and truly absorb the art, architecture, iconography, and spiritual atmosphere of this remarkable church.
Expect vivid icons, gold accents, candlelight, incense, and meaningful stories of faith and immigration — all shared in a respectful and informative setting. ✨
***
🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost
📅 Saturday, January 31, 2026
⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church 5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL
⏱️ Visit length: ~90 minutes
💰 Cost: $15 per person
💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle/Venmo/PayPal are accepted if needed so I can submit one group donation)⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start of the tour and submit payment directly to me so I can give to the church
📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any onsite guidance.
🎤 Private guided experience arranged for our group.
***
🌟 What We’ll Experience
⛪ A beautiful Orthodox sanctuary filled with sacred atmosphere
🎨 Traditional Orthodox iconography and stunning artwork
🕯️ Candles, incense, and sacred ritual elements
📜 The history of the parish and its immigrant roots
🏛️ Architectural and artistic details that reflect Orthodox tradition and spiritual meaningThis visit takes place entirely inside the church and its immediate grounds.
***
📖 About St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church
Built in 1926, St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church has been a spiritual and cultural anchor on Chicago’s North Side for nearly a century. As the surrounding neighborhood evolved through generations — shaped by waves of immigration, lakefront growth, and the vibrant mix of communities that define this part of the city — St. Andrew’s remained a steady presence, offering faith, tradition, and connection.The church reflects the deep roots of Greek-American families who helped build and strengthen Chicago, creating a home away from home where language, customs, and religious life could be preserved and passed down. For many, St. Andrew’s was not only a place of worship, but also a gathering space for community life — a setting for baptisms, weddings, memorials, celebrations, and the rhythms of Orthodox holidays that continue to shape the parish today.
Like many Orthodox churches, the interior is designed to teach and inspire through symbolism — from icons of Christ and the saints, to sacred imagery that fills the space with meaning and beauty. Whether you come for the history, the art, or the spiritual atmosphere, St. Andrew’s offers a powerful glimpse into how immigrant communities helped shape the cultural landscape of Chicago — one neighborhood and one church at a time.
Located near the lakefront in the Edgewater/Loyola area, the church sits in one of Chicago’s most welcoming and diverse neighborhoods — a community known for its mix of longtime residents, students, immigrants, and beautiful residential streets. With its close connection to the shoreline and North Side energy, this setting makes the visit feel both peaceful and distinctly Chicago.
***
🍽️ Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit
Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot.
🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date.
⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks.***
👟 What to Bring
• Camera
• Respectful attire
• $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated; cash preferred but Zelle, Venmo, PayPal accepted)***
🚇 Getting There
Public transportation is easy and encouraged.
Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner:
https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/***
🚗 Parking
• Street parking is available in the surrounding area (please always check posted signs)
• Metered parking may be found along nearby main streets, including Sheridan
• Residential side streets nearby often have additional parking options
• This area can be busier due to proximity to the lakefront and Loyola/Edgewater, so consider arriving a little early or us SpotHero or ParkWhiz***
📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy
✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated
✔️ Cancel promptly if your plans change
❌ Repeated no-shows may result in removal from future events***
✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful opportunity to experience Orthodox faith, sacred art, and community history — all inside one of Chicago’s most beautiful spiritual spaces. ✨
***
4 attendees
🎟️ 🎶Theater Week Stop 3: $30 tix-Trial in the Delta: Murder of Emmett Till🎭
Kimball Arts Center, 1757 N. Kimball, Chicago, IL, US🎟️ 🎶Theater Week Stop 3: $30 tix-Trial in the Delta: Murder of Emmett Till🎭
Chicago Theater Week 2026 Play #3 - $30 Tix- Trial in the Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till @Kimball Arts Center
Chicago Theater Week Play #3
🎶 Trial in the Delta: the Murder of Emmett Till
📅 Saturday Feb 14, 2025
⏰ 7:30 PM
📍 The Kimball Arts Center | 1757 N. Kimball Ave, Chicago,
🎟️ General Admission SeatingOur 3rd & final stop for Chicago Theater Week is Trial in the Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till, a powerful, award-winning live docu-drama presented by Collaboraction in their brand-new House of Belonging in Humboldt Park.
This immersive production brings the 1955 murder trial of Emmett Till to life using the recently unearthed trial transcript, placing audiences inside the courtroom for a deeply human, radically honest examination of a case that changed America forever.
Actors sit among the audience, taking the stand as witnesses for both the defense and prosecution — including Mamie Till-Bradley — creating a stunning, immediate, and unforgettable experience.
New this year! Tickets are available on Hottix, no special codes needed!
🎟 Theater Week Deal via Hot Tix
• $30 tickets + fees (normally $55.00) — no special code
• Limited quantity — WILL sell out
👉 Buy here: https://hottix.org/shows/collaboraction-in-the-kimball-arts-center/trial-in-the-delta-the-murder-of-emmett-till/
✔️ Select 2/14/25 General Admission – 7:30 PM | The Kimball Arts Center
-reg price $55.00 for $30! so $25.00 savings!Any issues calls Hot tix helpdesk at Phone: (312) 977-9483 or Email: help@chicagoplays.com
⚠️ Important Ticket Rules
· You must buy your own ticket
· DO NOT RSVP YES until ticket is purchased
· GA seating — we’ll meet in the bar & sit together
· High probability of value-priced tickets selling out!! - buy asap!I’ll arrive around 7:00 PM to grab seats as general admission. I may grab a meal nearby earlier & I will post a comment of where I will go for those who wish to meet & grab a bite. Check back for updates
🍷 Food & Drinks
• No food served and no outside food allowed
• Full bar available (wine, spirits, non-alcoholic drinks allowed in theaters)
• If you want to eat, plan to do so before the show — many nearby options
• Some of us may grab a bite. I’ll post updates closer to the dateTrial in the Delta: the Murder of Emmett Till
🎶 About the Production
On September 20, 1955, testimony began in the murder trial of two members of Emmett Till’s lynch mob. What happened during that trial — and in the weeks and months surrounding it — would help ignite the Civil Rights Movement.Written by Willie Round & G. Riley Mills, directed by Anthony Moseley & Dana Anderson, this production is drawn directly from The State of Mississippi vs. Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam trial transcript. It plays as a live courtroom reenactment, featuring top Chicago actors seated among the audience.
Join us as we witness this vital story — and stay to discuss its impact and legacy.
🏛️ About Collaboraction & the Kimball Arts Center
Collaboraction celebrates 30 years of innovative, socially conscious theater and opens its new House of Belonging in Humboldt Park.The space includes:
• 🎭 99-seat flexible studio theater
• 🍷 50-seat cabaret with café/bar
• 🏙️ Located next to the 606 Trail, where Logan Square meets Humboldt ParkCollaboraction’s work is grounded in KEDA — Knowledge, Empathy, Dialogue, and Action — theater for social change.
Kimball Arts Center
Kimball Arts Center is a hub of Chicago creativity located next to the 606 Trail, where Logan Square meets Humboldt Park. Home to a collection of independent businesses for over 15 years. Always inclusive. Always open-minded.🚗 Parking: Metered street parking nearby; SpotHero/ParkWhiz recommended
🚇 CTA accessible https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/
❗ No-Show Policy
3 no-shows without RSVP updates = 3-month event freeze.🎭✨ This is a true Theater Week steal — grab your ticket before it’s gone!
4 attendees
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