gate watercolor
Old Town Merchants & Residents Association 1/29/09
michael shannon oscarnear north branch librarythe unseen
And the beat goes on. . .
DEAR OLD TOWN NEIGHBOR, 
We're in the middle of a cold and icy time both meteorologically and economically, but things are still moving forward in Old Town.  Our theatres are filling up with audiences for their new productions, businesses are learning about resources available to them, we're having an event at the Chicago History Museum, and one of  our neighbors was just nominated for an Oscar!  Get out there and discover the neighborhood . . . there's great deals at all the restaurants and boutiques and it's all here!

OLD TOWN'S THEATRES ARE ON TOP!michael shannon oscar

Two of Old Town's resident theatre companies have reasons to be excited.  A Red Orchid Theatre (1531 N. Wells) woke up the morning of January 22nd to the news that founding member Michael Shannon is nominated for a best supporting actor Oscar for his performance in Revolutionary Road.  January 22nd also marked the opening of a new show at AROT.  THE UNSEEN, by Craig Wright, is Jeff Recommended and runs through March 1st.  Go to www.aredorchidtheatre.org for tickets and show information.  And best of  luck to Michael!second city image
 
Right up the street at Second City (1608 N. Wells) a new show is also in the works.  The talent and producers got together and decided to write, compose, and open a show in two weeks' time.  ROD BLAGOJEVICH SUPERSTAR! begins preveiw performances on Tuesday, February 3rd.  Tickets and show information is at www.secondcity.com
 
 
RETAIL UPDATE
twenty dollar bill
 One of the neighborhood shops received a counterfeit twenty dollar bill on Wednesday, January 28th.  Make sure you keep your eyes open and let employees know to do the same.  The bills look real, but do not have a watermark and will not pass the ink test.  The paper also has a slightly different feel to it.  The counterfeit bill is in the Association office if you would like to see an example.  Be Aware!
 
There's a great sale this weekend at One Yellow Shoe one yellow shoe(1543 N. Wells).  If there are any classy ladies in your life who enjoy a great deal on boots (up to 60% off) or shoes (up to 50%off) make sure you stop by.  It's on the garden level -- don't miss it!  For more information call 312-337-1800. 
 
Do you need new stationary?  pulp and ink candyHave you been in Pulp and Ink (1344 N. Wells) lately?  Stop by this innovative boutique offering urban-minded stationary and receive free return address printing on all custom notecards!  Other special offers are available at the store.  Check them out at www.pulpandink.com. 
 
 
Retailers are looking forward to warmer weather and their new neighbors.  Keep your eyes peeled -- there are new stores and restaurants coming to Old Town soon!
SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE FORUM
 small business 1
Tomorrow morning at the Near North Branch of the Chicago Public Library (310 W. Division) there will be a Small Business Resource Forum from 9:15am - 10:30am.  The presenters include the newly consolidated City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, the Small Business Administration, ACCION, SCORE, and Chicago Community Ventures. 
Presenters and attendees will sit together in a round table setting and share ideas and concerns about being in business during tight times.  Free and low cost consultation and micro-lending will only be part of the focus.  If you would like to join us, but haven't had a chance to respond, just call the office or drop by the library on Friday, January 30th! 
Old Town Merchants and Residents is in the middle of their 2009 Membership Campaign.  If you have the membership letter on your desk, it's time to send it in!  If you know of someone who could benefit from our informative programming, our social networking events, and involvement in the community; send them our way!  Talk to Mary or John in the office (312-951-6106) for more information on joining OTMRA!
 
Sincerely,
 

Old Town Merchants & Residents Association
In This Issue
Old Town Theatres
Retail Update
Small Business Resource Forum
Annual Dinner 2009
Snow Shoveling

ANNUAL DINNER 2009chicago history museum

 

 

 

The Old Town Merchants and Residents Association is looking forward to celebrating the neighborhood and each other at the 2009 Annual Dinner at the Chicago History Museum on Thursday, February 19th.  This year's event is  highlighted by live music from the Steve Edwards Orchestra for the entire evening as well as special access to the museum exhibits.  We'd love to have you join us -- please call the office with your ticket orders.  Single tickets are $125 and include complimentary valet, open bar, hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and dancing.  Tables of 8 can be bought for $900 if you would like to treat your friends, neighbors, clients or colleagues.  We'd love to have you join us!

DON'T FORGET TO SHOVEL!snow ordinance

 The adjacent image is door knob signage provided by the Chicago Department of Transportation detailing the municpal codes regarding snow removal!  If you would like some signage, call the office.  Be a good neighbor, clear your walk!