Antique Collecting

Life is better with friends and photos! So grab your favorite people and join us to create your own "love story" scrapbooks that celebrate friendship, community, and personal memories. Where: Little Italy Branch Library When: February 13th, 2-4 pm We will provide essential scrapbooking materials, including paper, scissors, a variety of adhesives, markers, and decorative supplies. You are encouraged to bring any personal photos or mementos you wish to include in your project. Sign up mandatory -https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSemKtm2eIXwDIpRvQS8n2r4X9PiAeKQ9sYW8ccC4Ui39Mb-tA/viewform

Join us in Millennium Park for a **FREE** workout at The Bean. We are an inclusive workout group with chapters throughout the world. Whether you are a multi-marathon runner or a mom just getting back into the swing of things, and everything in between, we only ask of everyone to **#JustShowUp!**

A wood-fired, social sauna seating 16 people, along the lake and inside Chicago's parks, with an Aufguss session to cap off every sauna day. What to bring: \- Water\, preferably with electrolytes/lemon to replenish\. \- Swimsuit/athletic clothes\. \- Towel\(s\) for sitting inside the sauna and for drying off\. There is a changing tent and a shower for rinsing off available. Looking forward to welcoming you! \- Maria Tkacz\, Founder of Harbor & Hoyage @harborandvoyage More info & booking at harborandyoyage.com

**Join us at our TECH MIXER AND SOCIAL for afterwork drinks, networking with tech workers in Chicago and meet people from Chicago and all over the world 🌏🎉** Tech, AI, Data, and more \~ Whether you're a seasoned tech veteran or just starting out, let's create the ideal afterwork place to meet and chill with other workers in tech - find that new job, expand your network, share ideas, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry. Let's inspire, innovate, and shape the future of technology in Chicago! 🍺🥃 Afterwork drinks 📍 **Hopsmith Tavern** \- 15 W Division St\, Chicago 🕕 **5:30pm** onwards **every** **Friday** 🎫 just $4 entry online or $8 at the door! (helps us to run the event inc. Meetup costs etc!) 🔗 [Link to Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1379224400309?aff=meetup) WhatsApp community in the Eventbrite link above *Chicago tech social mixer afterwork drinks AI connect network data IT programming cybersecurity digital nomad blockchain crypto big data science computer networking community career jobs entrepreneur industry product design startup Chicago tech social mixer afterwork drinks AI connect network data IT programming cybersecurity digital nomad blockchain crypto big data science computer networking community career jobs entrepreneur industry product design startup*z

Hi everyone!!! This is Geekson! We've opened our first showroom in the USA and we warmly invite all board game enthusiasts to join us for some fun at our tables this beautiful holiday season. We are a company that has been producing high-quality board game tables for over a decade. Be sure to bring your favorite games – if not, that's okay too, we also have games available at the store! We encourage you to come with friends or by yourself – it's a great opportunity to meet new people with similar interests. ⚡️⚡️We also offer snacks and drinks. ⏰We start at 4:30 PM and finish at 11:00 PM⏰ 📍2750 N Elston Ave 60647 Chicago

⛪✨ **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/](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/](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/](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.** ✨ ***

Valentine's Singles Mixer Followed by After-Party **TWO EVENTS - ONE VALENTINE’S NIGHT-1 TICKET TO START IT ALL - TWO DIFFERENT VENUES** **Your Ticket gets YOU access to Salsa for Singles (6:00–9:30 PM) -Followed by Our Valentine’s Party at AZUL from (10:00PM - Late)** **Salsa For Singles - Valentine's Day Edition Tickets ->** [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980613548440?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980613548440?aff=oddtdtcreator)

⛪🔔 **Bells, Stone & Sky: Rockefeller Memorial Chapel Carillon Tower Tour** 🏛️✨ 🌿 *An extraordinary afternoon inside one of Chicago’s most iconic Gothic landmarks* ✨ Join us for a rare and unforgettable guided visit and **carillon tower tour** at **Rockefeller Memorial Chapel**, one of the most magnificent collegiate Gothic buildings in the world and a crown jewel of the University of Chicago campus. This special experience begins with an introduction to the chapel’s history and architecture before taking us **inside the tower itself** — offering an up-close look at the mighty carillon bells, the inner workings of the instrument, and breathtaking views from above. This is a **stationary guided visit and tower tour** (not a walking tour), but it *does* involve stair climbing — allowing us to focus deeply on **architecture, engineering, music, and vertical exploration** in a truly unique setting. Expect soaring stone vaults, massive bronze bells, mechanical marvels, a live music demonstration, and panoramic skyline and lake views. ✨ *** **🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost** 📅 **Sunday, February 15, 2026** ⏰ **1:00–3:00 PM** 📍 **Rockefeller Memorial Chapel** 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave., Chicago ⏱️ **Visit length:** \~90 minutes 🎤 **Private guided chapel & carillon tower tour** 💰 **$15 per person** 💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted) ⚠️ All attendees must **check in with me at the start** and submit payment directly so I can provide **one group donation** to the chapel. 📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful and follow any guidance from our hosts. *** **🌟 What We’ll Experience** ⛪ Rockefeller Memorial Chapel’s awe-inspiring Gothic interior 🔔 Introduction to the chapel’s history, architecture, and musical legacy 🏗️ Behind-the-scenes access to the carillon tower 🕰️ The tower’s mechanical room and historic regulator clock 🔔 Up-close views of the **72-bell carillon** (over **100 tons of bronze**) 🎶 A live demonstration of how the carillon is played 🏛️ The playing cabin where the carillonist performs 🌆 Seasonal **360-degree views** from the top of tower *(weather/university permitting)* *** **🔔 Stair Climbing & Accessibility Note** This tour involves climbing **271 steps**, roughly equivalent to **20–22 stories**. The staircase is a **narrow spiral with no elevator**, and the experience may not be suitable for those who are afraid of heights or claustrophobic, or for anyone with knee issues, mobility concerns, or difficulty with stair climbing. We ascend at a **leisurely pace with multiple breaks**, and there is no pressure to reach the top. Participants are welcome to turn back at any point. Guests who choose not to climb (or who stop early) may remain on the main floor and still enjoy the **carillon playing demonstration via live video and audio feed**. *** **📖 About Rockefeller Memorial Chapel** Rockefeller Memorial Chapel was funded by **John D. Rockefeller Jr.** as a memorial to his father, **John D. Rockefeller Sr.**, the principal benefactor of the University of Chicago. Designed by renowned architect **Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue**, the chapel was completed in **1928** and stands as one of the finest examples of **collegiate Gothic Revival architecture** in the United States. Conceived as a **non-denominational sacred space**, the chapel reflects medieval English cathedral influences combined with early 20th-century American craftsmanship, serving as a symbolic and spiritual anchor of the university. *** **📖 About the Carillon Tower Tour** Rockefeller Memorial Chapel houses **one of the largest carillons in the world**, consisting of **72 massive bronze bells**. The largest bell weighs **36,926 pounds** and measures **117 inches in diameter**. The tour begins with a **10–15 minute introduction** on the main floor, covering the chapel’s history, architecture, and the role of the carillon. From there, participants ascend the tower via a **271-step spiral staircase**, taken at a relaxed pace with frequent stops. Along the way, we will: • Walk above the chapel’s false ceiling (attic catwalk) • Pass through the mechanical room housing the original regulator clock and pneumatic chime system • Stand beside the largest bells • Enter the playing cabin, where the carillonist performs using hands and feet Beyond the cabin, a short additional staircase leads to the top of the tower, where sweeping views of **Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, northern Indiana, and the University of Chicago campus** are visible *in season and when permitted*. *** **🍽️ Optional Coffee or Late Lunch After the Visit** Those interested are welcome to join me afterward at a nearby Hyde Park favorite such as **Medici**, **Noodles Etc.**, or **Salonica Restaurant**. 🍽️ Options will be finalized closer to the date. ⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks. *** **👟 What to Bring / Wear** • Camera • Comfortable shoes (stairs!) • Respectful attire • $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated) *** **🚇 Getting There** Public transportation is encouraged. Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner: [https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/](https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/) *** **🚗 Parking** • Limited street parking nearby (check posted signs) • University 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 rare opportunity to explore sacred architecture, musical engineering, and sky-high views — all inside one of Chicago’s most extraordinary landmarks.\*\*⛪✨ **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/](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/](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/](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.** ✨ ***

## **TWO EVENTS - ONE VALENTINE’S NIGHT-1 TICKET TO START IT ALL - TWO DIFFERENT VENUES** **Your Ticket gets YOU access to Salsa for Singles (6:00–9:30 PM) -Followed by Our Valentine’s Party at AZUL from (10:00PM - Late)** **Salsa For Singles - Valentine's Day Edition Tickets ->** [CLICK HERE](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980613548440?aff=oddtdtcreator) **WHAT TO EXPECT** ✨ Beginner-Friendly **Salsa & Bachata Lessons** 🍹 **Bar & Lounge** Atmosphere + Live DJ 💬 Icebreakers, Mingling & Social Dancing **Salsa \| Bachata \| Tequila Tasting \| Latin Vibes 🪩** 🕺 **No partner? No problem.** 🔥 **No dance experience? Even better.** 💃 **New year. New energy. New match.** Our welcoming, beginner-friendly environment makes it easy to meet new people, move to the music, and let the night flow naturally. 📍 Join us Feb 14 and let the rhythm do the talking.

An event has long been overdue. I've moved back to Chicago and look forward to reconnecting with former and new members! To start things off, I'd like to introduce you to [Lilliput Books](https://lilliputbookstore.com/), an amazing new woman-owned bookstore in the Lincoln Park area, who is hosting a Junk Journal event this Sunday, February 15 at 9:30 am. While there, be sure to also check out the [Auranimali](https://www.auranimali.com/) pop up shop with Valentine and Chinese New Year themed gifts and more for the month of February. Follows are the Junk Journal event details: Create your own junk journal. Your ticket includes journal, supplies to get started, & breakfast. The LOVE Edition will have fun heart-filled supplies in addition to our general junk journalling supplies. This is a great event to capture what you love e.g., yourself, family, friends, romance, pets, books, etc. Anything you love can be added to your journal! Start your Sunday, creating your own junk journal. Your ticket includes a journal, supplies to get started, and breakfast. Participants will enjoy a 10% discount during the workshop to buy more supplies (applies to one-time purchase during the workshop off all items in the store). To attend this paid event, sign up here: [Sign Up Now at Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980389309736?aff=oddtdtcreator)

**\*\*Register for this [individual classes](https://grabagame.com/volleyball-skills-drills/) through the Grab A Game app or Website.** *This meetup listing is only an advertisement and does not reflect the headcount for the game. If you RSVP on Meetup, it does not hold you a spot in the class.* **Are you looking to improve your volleyball skills?** Join us on Sundays for a comprehensive training session that includes drills for passing, serving, setting, and attacking. This 2-Hour session will include skill and drills as well as a scrimmage game with light coaching organized by skill level. **Location:** **The Ray Meyer Fitness Center is located at 2235 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614.** Some free street parking is available in the area, but it may be difficult to find. There is a paid parking garage down the street. You'll be playing on a wood court. Most players wear volleyball-specific shoes, though they're not required. We prefer you bring your game shoes with you and change into them when you arrive to help us keep the court clean and dry. **Pricing -** $25 per person *\*Plus 9% City of Chicago Amusement Tax and 5% Processing Fee.* **What to Expect:** Arrive 10-15 minutes before game time and check in with the Grab A Game host in the gym. **Questions?** Email us at [[email protected]](http://[email protected]/) or call 312-850-8167 during business hours (M-F 9 am-5 pm)

Well this is on the day after Valentine's day on Sunday for a change, come celebrate Galentine's Day with us at our favorite woman owned brewery in IL. It's currently the only woman owned brewery in IL but hey it's still our favorite and we women should support women making beer. Please update your RSVP if needed to keep our headcount accurate. Eris is named for the goddess of chaos and they make excellent cider. In Greek mythology, Eris, the goddess of discord, is associated with a golden apple that started the Trojan War. It was founded by two excellent brewers who happen to be women. Menu: https://www.erischicago.com/menu

**No Money, No Credit Creative Acquisitions Training – Free for First 20 to Register\*** Join us for another great Real Estate Training **in-person in Lisle, IL or online** **Saturday, February 21st, from 10 AM to 4 PM**, with one of the TOP Creative Acquisition Experts in the country, Chris Albin. **The first 20 people to email me their first name, last name, cell number, and email address can attend this $50 workshop as my guest for FREE\*.** Learn how you can buy properties without using your own money or without having your credit checked. Chris will explain acquisition strategies that include equity sharing, options, contracts for deed, seller financing, mortgages, and more. Using case studies, Chris will show you how to understand step-by-step techniques for buying and controlling properties without having to qualify for bank financing. Chris will also train you to utilize financial and social resources and time, imagination, networking, and non-traditional assets to acquire properties successfully. You will leave this class knowing which investments would be best funded through retirement accounts, cash accounts, stock accounts, life insurance plans, margin accounts, and others. Chris is also an expert in probate investing strategies. **To complete your registration, email your first name, last name, cell number, and email address to [email protected].** Also indicate if you would like to attend in-person in Lisle, IL or online. You will then be emailed the event address or online link. \*Renatus Students and ICMs are not eligible for the free offer

**Finding Your Niche in Real Estate: Wholesaling & Off-Market Deal Sourcing** Not sure where you fit in real estate? Curious about wholesaling or how investors find deals *before* they ever hit the market? This meetup is for you. Join us for an easygoing, informative night where **Aaron Buchanan** breaks down how he found his niche in real estate and how wholesaling and off-market deal sourcing really work. Whether you’re new, exploring different paths, or looking to sharpen your deal flow, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can actually use. Come learn, ask questions, grab a drink, and connect with other Chicago investors. **Date:** Tuesday, February 17, 2026 **Time:** 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM **Location:** Navigator Taproom 2211 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL **Speaker:** Aaron Buchanan Aaron is an Illinois State University graduate who transitioned from corporate recruiting into real estate and never looked back. He’s passionate about helping people overcome challenges, build confidence, and find their place in the industry. We hope to see you there!

\#\# Brass from the Past \#\#\# 115 Bourbon St \(Performance Hall\) **“Horn-Driven Classic Rock & Soul”- Playing the biggest hits from the 60’s, & 70's** with **Brass from the Past**! Join us **in person** at the iconic 115 Bourbon St Performance Hall for a night full of energy, great tunes, and good times. Whether you're a brass enthusiast or just looking for a fun evening out, this is the place to be. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable live experience! Tickets [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brass-from-the-past-performance-hall-tickets-1978821420136?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawPuJIpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFiUmdaTDVaSDYwU0V5Y1Nlc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHgwhm9atbkERwPj7rXNwsBxBe7-YOGIppvem2TwhmrG_D15s03uqYfEpL3-Q_aem_adaKAIyU1u4BKIhvfyZHXw](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brass-from-the-past-performance-hall-tickets-1978821420136?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawPuJIpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFiUmdaTDVaSDYwU0V5Y1Nlc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHgwhm9atbkERwPj7rXNwsBxBe7-YOGIppvem2TwhmrG_D15s03uqYfEpL3-Q_aem_adaKAIyU1u4BKIhvfyZHXw)

**Our 4th Monday Song Sharing Meeting is coming up at the SAE Institute!** Hey writers - this is a fun, supportive and safe environment for every songwriter, regardless of where you're at in your musical journey. Come on out! This month we will be talking about how to find the perfect word for your song. We'll discuss rhyming and metaphors, and some tools you can use to perfect that song you've been working on! To submit recorded material or upload lyrics for discussion: [https://forms.gle/QAabWHwznDrPwb3o9](https://forms.gle/QAabWHwznDrPwb3o9) This is your chance to hang around with other songwriters, talk about the details and learn from others. Perspectives from fellow songwriters can put some polish on those diamonds in the rough. Feel free to bring along an instrument or recorded material to share with the group for positive Collaborative Feedback. No Keyboard on site although if you request, we can typically bring one along. President John Ludwig - call or text at 815-474-2352 if questions or need info Park in the lot across the street (corner of Institute and Orleans) for $8 evening special if driving. Use Spot Hero or equiv. parking app to get that rate.

LET'S TAKE A STAINED GLASS WINDOW WORKSHOP CLASS TOGETHER! 😀🤗 Isabel Badalpour has been a respected stained glass instructor for over a decade. Her passion for the craft began at an early age through her father, Joseph Badalpour, the founder of Circle Studio Inc (established in 1975). Under his guidance, Isabel developed a deep appreciation and skill for stained glass, which she now shares with her students. At the Stained Glass Workshop, students are guided through each step of the creative process. They learn how to break down patterns, choose from a variety of teacher-provided designs, and work with glass by cutting, foiling, and soldering. By the end of the course, students complete their own unique stained glass piece, gaining both confidence and craftsmanship. With roots dating back to 1975, Circle Studio has long been a creative cornerstone in the community. Since establishing our dedicated stained glass workshop in 2017, we've continued to build on over 50 years of collective experience in the art and instruction of stained glass. Our talented instructors bring more than 20 years of hands-on expertise to every class, guiding students through each step of the creative process. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, our workshops are designed to inspire confidence, skill, and self-expression—helping you create beautiful stained glass pieces that truly reflect your personal artistry. Join our Workshop! Book your class today! 🌟📬 IMPORTANT: PLEASE LET ISABEL KNOW YOU SIGNED UP ON MEETUP WITH MIABELA WHEN YOU ARRIVE. ALSO MESSAGE MIABELA AT 1-414-979-9103 ONCE YOU PAYED ON LINK TO WEBSITE. THANK YOU KINDLY! 🙏 https://www.circlestudioworkshop.com/booking-calendar/beginners-stained-glass-workshop COST IS $170 FOR CLASS PLUS $50 TO FRAME YOUR STAINED GLASS WINDOW ART IN CLASS!