Archive for February, 2011

• The Mid-America Club Invitation

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  The Mid-America Club Board of Governors
  and the Membership Committee
  cordially invite you and a guest
  to attend a private reception
  to experience the benefits of Membership.

  Tuesday, March 15, 2011
  6:00-7:30pm
  The Mid-America Club
  80th floor of the Aon Center
  200 East Randolph Drive
  Chicago, IL 60601
  Please RSVP to the Membership Department
  at 312.861.1100 by Friday, March 11.
  Dress is Business Casual.
  Please remember to bring a valid I.D. for security.

• Tips & Ideas for Winter Cocktail Parties

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  If you rent or own one of the many downtown Chicago condos, then you know winter can be extremely tough on your social life. However, if it’s simply too cold outside, there’s nothing better than hosting your own fabulous night of winter cocktails, food and fun. Be careful though – these warm recipes and wintery beverages may have you wishing for more cold weather once spring arrives.

  A Few Classy Winter Cocktail Party Decorating Tips:

  • Embrace the winter colors. Don’t be afraid to use lots of whites and accents of silver and icy blue.  Create a beautiful indoor winter that people will love using fabrics like chiffon, gossamer and other sheers.
  • Scented candles. Enhance your winter atmosphere with scents like evergreen, hot cocoa, or fresh baked sugar cookies.
  • Use what you already own. You can get creative (and cheap!) with your surroundings by reusing some Christmas decorations like ribbons, snowflake ornaments and twinkling lights.
  • Party favors. Sometimes little gifts can help your friends forget about the cold weather and add that perfect last touch to your soirée. Give your guests something simple and heart-warming like personalized snowflake magnets.

  Warm Winter Cocktail Recipes:

  • Adult Hot Chocolate: Who said you can’t mix your past with the present? Make everyone’s favorite childhood cold-weather drink, but spice it up with something like Baileys Irish Cream or Peppermint Schnapps.  You can even add a little garnish by hanging a mini candy cane off the side of the mug.
  • Hot Apple Pie: This drink is a winter classic.  You can experiment with all different types of black and green teas, creating a drink that’s unique to your style and flavor.  Combining brandy, whiskey or rum with a little honey and lemon and adding it to your favorite tea allows this beverage to keep your warm and toasty during the long, cold Chicago winter.
  • Hot Toddyunique to your style and flavor.  Combining brandy, whiskey or rum with a little honey and lemon and adding it to your favorite tea allows this beverage to keep your warm and toasty during the long, cold Chicago winter.
  • Black Stripe: You can’t go wrong with this simple winter cocktail.  The Black Stripe uses honey or molasses to compliment dark rum.  Add a little lemon twist, some hot water and garnish this drink with a cinnamon stick to ease the winter troubles of you and your friends.

  Perfect Winter Party Foods:

  • Fondue: This warm wintery delight is perfect for any cold-weather gathering. Not only can you add a little international flair to your party, but you can also experiment with a plethora of different sweet and savory recipes.  You can even have a fondue potluck, allowing your guests to bring their own interpretation of the dish and making the party a fun, interactive event.
  • Chili: There’s nothing chilly about this hearty food.  You and your friends can warm your bellies with a variety of meat or vegetarian chili recipes.  You can even throw in a delicious homemade cornbread as the perfect partner to this dish.
  • Soup: Soups are the perfect winter dish for any occasion, especially a classy cocktail party.  Not only can you get creative with the recipes, but you can also serve them up in a variety of stylish dishes with an assortment of delicious, imaginative petits fours salés.

   

   

• Chiditarod 2011 – The Urban Iditarod

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Meet Chiditarod: Chicago’s take on Alaska’s famous Iditarod sled race — one part food drive, one part costumed race, a heaping spoonful of creativity, and some serious servings of shenanigans.  On March 5^th, the city’s finest will gather to participate in the most important shopping cart race in the universe.  Whether you own a Chicago luxury condo downtown, an apartment in Lincoln Square or perhaps just a sleeping bag and tent, you have been formally challenged to assemble your team and answer the call to glory.

  The Rules and Guidelines:

  The Chiditarod VI will take place on Saturday, March 5^th, 2011 at 12:00 p.m.

  A few rules of the road:

  1. Teams must have 5 people

  2. Must be at least 21 years of age

  3. Carts must be pulled doggy-sled style (4 pulling with ropes in front, one person steering from behind)

  4. “dogs” and “mushers” are free to trade off duties at the checkpoints, but all team members must finish together

  5. No public or private transportation during the race

  6. Carts can be decorated and modified, but must be able to fit through a regular front-door-sized opening

  7. Costumes are highly encouraged

  Food Drive Charity – Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation:

  Though the Chiditarod provides teams with a day of extraordinary fun, what’s truly extraordinary about this event is what it gives back to the community.  As part of the food drive, each team’s cart must cross the finish line with 42 lbs. of food or more. Be creative – hide food along the way or have your friends meet you with groceries in various locations.  Remember: high-protein, non-perishable foods are highly preferred.

  If you want to take it one step further, you and your team can set up a free fundraising page with GiveForward.org.  The money you raise will automatically be donated to the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation (and it’s tax-deductable!).  Step-by-step instructions for setting up your page can be found online at chiditarod.org,

  What To Expect:

  Last year 120 teams collected 14,525 pounds of food and raised $2,400 during this epic event.  The race will take place no matter what: rain, shine, snow, ice, wind, etc.  Be prepared for any type of potentially hostile weather and most importantly, prepare for your safety.

  No matter how much fun we want you to have, there’s absolutely no fun in littering. There will be a $50 cart deposit fee via PayPal to ensure that all participants return their shopping carts instead of abandoning them in the city streets.  Photographic evidence of your cart’s whereabouts can be mailed in to receive a full refund.

  So, will you accept the challenge?

• What is LEED Certified?

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Magellan Development Group demonstrates its commitment to the environment by ensuring all its design and construction projects are LEED-certified. For example, 340 on the Park, a residential tower in Lakeshore East, is the first residential building in the Midwest to be awarded Silver LEED certification. Magellan’s Aqua condominium tower—also in Lakeshore East—is home to the first public electric-vehicle charging station in the Midwest. Aqua’s hardwood flooring is made of renewable bamboo, and all its faucets and fixtures are designed to promote water conservation without sacrificing performance. Magellan provides options to rent apartments in Chicago and reduce environmental impact at the same time.  So what does it mean to be LEED-certified?

  Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is awarded to a building or community that meets an internationally-recognized standard for environmental friendliness. LEED-certified buildings are designed and built with sensitivity to resource use, external environmental impact, indoor environmental quality, CO₂ emissions, energy conservation, and water efficiency.

  LEED certification is granted by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the organization that first developed LEED and continues to refine the existing standards. The goal of the USGBC is to provide straightforward and achievable guidelines for the planning, building, operation, and maintenance of green developments. There are LEED standards for commercial as well as residential construction projects.

  9 LEED Rating Systems

  There are nine LEED rating systems, each based on the type of project. These nine systems are:

  1. New Construction and Major Renovations

  2. Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance

  3. Commercial Interiors

  4. Core & Shell

  5. Schools

  6. Retail

  7. Healthcare

  8. Homes

  9. Neighborhood Development

  Each rating system has its own set of weighted criteria. Every rating system except Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance grades projects only on their design and construction phases. The Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance rating system evaluates the operations of a building, rather than its design or construction.

  To achieve LEED certification, a project must score a 40 out of a possible 100 points (there are also 10 possible bonus points). A score of 40 means the project has met all the minimum requirements in its rating system. Additional points are awarded for achievement beyond the minimum; additional points result in higher levels of LEED certification status. Specifically, a score of 40-49 means a project is “Certified”, 50-59 means “Silver” certification, 60-79 means “Gold” certification, and 80+ means “Platinum” certification.

  Points can be awarded in nine categories, though a given rating system doesn’t necessarily use all nine. Each system uses the categories appropriate to it and weights each category differently. Here’s a breakdown of the nine categories:

  9 Categories Where Points Are Awarded

  1. Sustainable Site-Points awarded for avoiding undeveloped land, consideration of local ecosystems, minimizing erosion, and reducing construction-related and light pollution.

  2. Water Efficiency-Points awarded for reducing water usage through efficient appliances and fixtures, plus utilizing water-wise landscaping.

  3. Energy & Atmosphere: Points awarded for efficient use of energy/electricity as well as the use of on- or off-site renewable and clean energy sources.

  4. Materials & Resources: Points awarded for reducing waste generated by construction and operation, recycling and reusing materials, and using sustainably-grown and -transported supplies.

  5. Indoor Environmental Quality: Points awarded for improved air quality, use of natural daylight and views, and better acoustics.

  6. Locations & Linkages: Points awarded to homes integrated into existing infrastructure and near open spaces.

  7. Awareness & Education: Points awarded for educating green home buyers on making the most of their home’s unique features.

  8. Innovation in Design: Bonus points awarded for new ideas and technologies used in the design and construction of the project.

  9. Regional Priority: Bonus points awarded for projects that prioritize the most pressing local environmental concerns.

• Lakeshore East Edwardo’s Pizza WEEKEND! 2/26 – 27th

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Pizza Weekend! Edwardo’s pizza is offering Lakeshore East residents 25% off their orders on 2/19, 2/20! Delivery, dinE-in or carry out! Edwardo’s at 521 S. Dearborn ONLY 312-939-3366! Just mention LAKESHORE EAST!

• 9 Tips to Make Your Moving Day Less Stressful

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Everyone knows that a move can be a chaotic mess if it’s not done right. But it doesn’t have to be that way, especially if you’re planning to rent apartments in Chicago. Stay calm. You’re going to get through this! Here are a few tips to make your moving day a little more stress free.

  1. Move on a weekday

  It’s always easier when banks, utilities and other government offices are open — just in case. Also avoid the beginning and end of the month if you can, because it’s typically the most popular time to move and unless you book your moving vehicle early, one may not be available.

  2. Make a packing schedule

  Begin by packing one room at a time over the course of several weeks. By the time of your actual move date you will be able to act more like a conductor and less like a member of a symphony who forgot their instrument.

  3. Label

  Label and number each box clearly, on both sides, with thick letters that are easily identifiable. The numbering will allow you to keep track of where your belongings are once you get to your new home and help you determine which boxes will need to be opened first. It will also help ensure everything arrives safely.

  4. Create a checklist

  After numbering and labeling your boxes, create a spreadsheet for your move. This way you can check off each room as things arrive and you minimize the chances of misplacing items. The checklist will also help with the unpacking process.

  5. Pack yourself an overnight bag

  If you have to get back to work right away, make it easier on yourself by preparing an overnight bag. With work clothes and accessories packed separately you eliminate the need to scramble opening boxes before you have to leave to an appointment

  6. Ask For Help

  It’s always easier with an extra set of hands or two. There are a number of moving companies located within the city so shop around and get quotes from multiple movers, you’d be surprised how the cost can vary. If not, rope some friends in for some quality “bonding” time

  7. Relax

  Take breaks frequently. Make sure you drink lots of water and take time in between trips to your moving vehicle. If you pass out you’ll be no good for the team.

  8. Feed Your Army

  Providing your crew with a little sustenance in the morning like some bagels, orange juice or coffee will give them the energy they need to get started. But at some point in the moving process energy levels will dip so you’ve got to have a plan to reenergize. Map out your new home before you get there so you know where the closest grocery store or restaurants are – the help will appreciate your speed in delivering dinner.

  9. Set Deadlines

  Set deadlines for packing and unpacking phases of your move. Let’s face it, moving is a lot of work, but breaking it down into smaller pieces will alleviate some of the stress and you’d be surprised how much easier moving will become.

   

• Best Pets for Condominium Living

  Posted by admin | February 25, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Condo hunting can be complicated, especially if you’re looking for a place that can accommodate both you and a furry companion. But when it comes to picking the best pets for condo living, there are always some animals that are better suited for an apartment lifestyle. Many Chicago condos permit pets, but you must ensure your animal is living in a space that fully accommodates their needs and allows them to be as happy and comfortable as possible.

  Cats and dogs — both small and large — are standard pets that can lead happy lives and flourish  in a condo setting, but there are also more exotic pets that are smaller and quieter that can make great apartment additions.

  Ideal Animals for Condo Life

  • Smaller dog breeds can include Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Pugs, Basset Hounds, Beagles, Scottish Terriers and Malteses, which are all fairly active indoors and can live without a yard since most can be sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
  • Larger dog breeds can include Collies, Airedale Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Dalmatians, Weimaraners, Great Danes and Golden Retrievers, as long as they receive sufficient exercise outdoors, at a park or in a small yard.
  • Cats don’t require extensive care, training or regular exercise and are small animals that can handle small spaces. Multiple cats can even be housed in the same unit as long as they are friendly with each other and you upkeep their feeding, grooming and litter box.
  • Chinchillas are simple to train and enjoy being held and cuddled. Most active in the early more and evening, they enjoy following a daily routine that may be the perfect match if you work a typical business day.
  • Rabbits are sociable and can be litter box trained so they can roam the living space with you, but they do require a fairly large cage, especially if their time spent outside of the cage is limited.
  • Birds are best if they are smaller and quieter breeds, like Finches, African Grays and Canaries. You want to avoid larger birds that will have your neighbors complaining about squawking.
  • Ferrets are very social and playful creatures that can be litter box trained. They tend to sleep for long periods of time and can hide in small spaces when they are playing, so they do require slight supervision.
  • Small to medium reptiles and amphibians are flexible since there is an array of choices that can factor in both your budget and space, such as lizards, snakes or turtles. Though they may not be as social as some other animals, there is less maintenance involved, which may suit you better if you have a spontaneous lifestyle.   
  • Fish are the simplest pets to care for and include an endless option of breeds to select for any size of tank, including both saltwater and freshwater.

  Aside from granted permission by the building owner to allow an animal to live in your apartment or condo, the most important component of owning a pet is to research the necessary care it requires. Being aware and knowing how to properly handle your new friend is extremely important to the happiness and success of your life together.

   

• Aqua Indoor Pool

  Posted by admin | February 22, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Magellan is pleased to announce the indoor pool at Aqua is now open again! Hours are 5am - 11pm! Enjoy!

• Aqua Shore Club Complimentary Fitness Classes

  Posted by admin | February 15, 2011 | No Comments » |

  All Aqua Homeowners are encouraged to take advantage of the complimentary fitness classes! All levels are welcome!

  Monday’s at 5:45pm - Boot Camp Style Class focus on both cardio and strength!

  Wednesday’s at 5:30pm - Yoga. This class is great for all levels!

  Thursday’s at 7:30pm - Boot Camp

  Saturday’s at 11:00am - Yoga! This class is growing so large look for it in the basketball court and soon (spring/summer) on the 3rd floor deck!

• Aqua Submits LEED Certification

  Posted by admin | February 15, 2011 | No Comments » |

  Blair Kamin, Chicago Tribune’s architecture critic, blogs on the status of Aqua’s LEED certification. Blair Kamin, Chicago Tribune