Holiday Retail Hiring: Cautious Optimism

Looking to earn some extra cash this holiday season? Many retailers in Chicago and the surrounding area will be hiring more temporary holiday staff than they did last year. This could be good news for many, but some retailers like Best Buy and Walmart are hiring holiday employees at 2009 levels.

For more on the changing retail landscape, check out the video from ChicagoBusiness.

Soldier Field Fountain

One of the most beautiful and serene fountains in Chicago is dedicated to the men and women serving (or  served) in the armed services. Designed to blend in with the Soldier Field campus, the fountain is often overlooked. If you're planning a walk around the museum campus, be sure to stop by.

In a city with some pretty amazing fountains, the one at Soldier Field more than holds its own.

Weather Mark Tavern: A Great Neighborhood Bar and Restaurant

This is one in a series of articles focusing on small businesses and entrepreneurs in the South Loop.

Ship Ahoy!

Mark Stern, owner of the Weather Mark Tavern at 1503 S. Michigan Ave., has created a tavern with a casual nautical theme. In fact, it might be the only tavern in the city with sails and yachting flags as part of the decor. Stern thought this was somewhat remarkable considering how much Chicago looks to the water not just for commerce, but for fun and recreation.

This Place is Yar

Stern, a Chicago native with over 15 years experience working in retail, will be celebrating four years in this South Loop location on June 26, 2010. His vision to create an alternative to the stodgy old yacht clubs of yore looks like it’s working. From the comfortable booth-like seating along the south wall to the high tables near the Michigan Ave. entrance to the outdoor seating during the warmer months, Weather Mark Tavern has the look and feel of a neighborhood pub. It’s the kind of place you can meet your friends for a beer, snack, or a complete meal.

Burger and Brew Night

The Weather Mark Tavern has specials every day of the week, including the very popular Monday Burger and Brew Night. For $6 you get a hamburger, fries, (house sweet potato or steak fries) and a beer. Full disclosure: I’ve had this special many times and have never been disappointed. For all the weekly specials, check out their Web site.

Over the years, Stern has adapted and changed the menu based on customer feedback. But his commitment to offering “high quality food, good service” in a friendly comfortable setting is one of the reasons they’ll be a lot of celebrating on June 26.

What do you think? Have you eaten at the Weather Mark Tavern? Tell us about your experience.

Let's Go Blackhawks!

Even the Lions at the Art Institute are pulling for you!

Chicago the beautiful!

What a glorious day to be walking around the city. Check out this view from the Shedd Aquarium.

2010 Chicago Auto Show

Oldest in North America
The 2010 Chicago Auto Show is at McCormick Place until Sunday February 21. The Chicago auto show is the largest of its kind in North America. Chicago has been hosting the auto show since 1901 (now in its 102nd year).

Historic Motor Row
During the turn of the century the South Loop section of Michigan Ave. was called motor row, with numerous car dealerships. To help sell cars, Michigan Ave. was one of the smoothest roads anywhere.

Many of the loft-style condos and offices in the neighborhood are former auto dealerships. The McHugh Construction Company at 1737 S. Michigan Ave. was the former home of the Maxwell-Briscoe Automobile Company. The original building, restored by McHugh, was constructed in 1909.




Dealerships Past
You can't see it today because it's covered up with a banner advertising condos for sale, but 1452 S. Michigan Ave. was home to a Buick dealership. In fact, the Buick name and logo is carved into the building. Someday, when that banner comes down, it will be on display once again. The building for the last couple of years has served as the sales showroom for the Marquee and Terrazio condominium complexes.