Did 2014 fly by for you like it did for me? It feels like just yesterday I shared my reflections on 2013 and aspirations for LoganSquarist in 2014.
Here we are again, looking at the past and ahead into the future as Logan Square continues to see incredible growth, receive accolades from various groups and praise from visitors. But what I’ve noticed most this past year is the unwavering pride most neighbors have about living in Logan. Whether or not you agree with all the new changes 2014 brought, I’d bet you’re still proud to call Logan Square home.
Taking Stock of 2014
As I take stock of what we as Logan Squares have to be thankful for, I pulled together my top five highlights:
Artistic expression in multiple forms. One of my favorite aspects of this neighborhood is the various artists creating right here in our backyards. Some examples include Angry Mule Productions’ Killer Pinata horror film, the annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival and the Frankie Knuckles graffiti memorial.
Businesses expanding and building. The year brought a lot of new business faces to the neighborhood, including Madison Public House, East Room, The Harding Tavern, Owen + Alchemy, Chicago Distilling Company, Osteria Langhe, Logan Parlor, Emporium Logan Square, Red Lion Pub and Grill, Slippery Slope and Cellar Door Provisions, to name a few. But existing businesses also expanded, saying, “We love you Logan, and we’re here to stay.” Some of these businesses have been here for many years, and some have more recently set up shop. Parson’s is currently finishing its expansion that includes an ice rink, Fleur found a new home up the street, L’Patron expanded, Webster’s relocated into the Telegraph space, Cozy Corner remodeled, Logan Arcade opened a second shop, and California & Armitage Grocery relocated.
Neighborhood debate and controversy. We have a range of opinions in Logan Square, which represent the different walks of life that reside here. Some of the most interesting dialogue resulted from controversies over the Mega Mall purchase, what’s to come of Milshire, Mark Fishman’s resignation from the I AM Logan Square board, the Lathrop Home redevelopment and more. We don’t always agree, but we’re passionate about the future of our neighborhood.
Where to work remotely. As a recent remote worker, Kara Anderson’s Where to Work Remotely in Logan Square article definitely came in handy. Chock full of suggestions on where to cowork, especially when you need to get out of the house. One of my faves in the warmer months is in Logan Bar and Grill‘s outdoor patio.
Growing with the community. At LoganSquarist HQ, we also saw some phenomenal growth. This year we not only celebrated our third anniversary, rolled out a new banner look, but also launched v 2.0 of our website. It’s packed with features like a neighborhood events calendar and directory to help you get out and patronize locally. We even revamped the LoganSquarist Store, which now is packed full of Logan Square-inspired merch.
Ringing in 2015
So what’s in store for 2015 at LoganSquarist? We’re looking forward to continue to provide a service to the neighborhood, while enhancing some of features as we can.
Same great articles. We know you enjoy hearing about what’s the latest, tasty thing to try and new watering hole moving in, as well as the various upcoming events to keep you out and about in the ‘hood. You’ll continue to read such tailored articles written by our local writers Monday through Friday. We’re also looking to ramp up our politics, arts + entertainment, living and family categories this year. Interested in writing? Consider joining the team.
Monthly meetups every third Wednesday. Our monthly Neighbor Meetups will continue, patronizing various establishments throughout the neighborhood. The next few months, we’ll see you at Madison Public House (Jan. 21), Chicago Distilling Company (Feb. 18) and Reed’s Local (Mar. 18).
Be on the look out for extra special events as well next year. We’re planning some awesome ones!
For now, register for our January event, or any of the other upcoming ones at EventBrite:
Providing you resources. We want to continue to grow and enhance our events calendar and directory to ensure they are truly resources you can use. If you have any suggestions, let us know.
We have a few other ideas up our sleeves, but we’ll wait to surprise as the year unfolds. Stay tuned!
Wishing You Tidings
Like many, I’m looking forward to what’s in store in the coming year. Personally, 2014 was challenging, inspiring and humbling as I became comfortable in a new 9-to-5 job, ran my first Ragnar Relay (a 200-mile relay race from Madison, Wisconsin to Chicago) and bought a home right here in Logan Square. I’m hoping 2015 brings blessings, both personal and professional, and wish you and yours the same.
Thank you for letting me and the rest of the LoganSquarist team share our love of this neighborhood with you. Cheers to the new year!
Have a suggestion for LoganSquarist? I’d love to hear it! Contact me, email me at kate [at] logansquarist.com or tweet me @katemhamilton.
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