The 78

Jack’s Mannequin is back—and not just for nostalgia’s sake.

In 2025, the beloved alt-pop rock group, fronted by singer-songwriter-pianist Andrew McMahon, celebrates a remarkable 20-year milestone with The MFEO Tour, a 25-date headlining North American tour that includes festival stops and a highly anticipated Chicago show at The Salt Shed on June 20. The return of Jack’s Mannequin marks a poignant chapter for McMahon, as he revisits the music that defined both his career and his personal evolution.

“Jack’s Mannequin was born out of one of the most prolific and transformative periods of my life,” McMahon shares. “The songs narrate my journey from youth to adulthood, heartbreak to marriage, cancer to remission.” That journey—often as turbulent as it was triumphant—resonated deeply with fans, especially after McMahon was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) in 2005 during the recording of the band’s debut album Everything In Transit. He was just 22 years old.

Now, with the wisdom of two decades and the perspective of survival, McMahon is ready to fully embrace and celebrate the music he once found too painful to revisit.

“It’s been nearly fifteen years since the band and I have toured this catalog exclusively,” he says. “And it feels like such a gift to do so now—at a time in my life when I feel able to truly celebrate what we created together.”

The MFEO Tour will feature the band’s original lineup—McMahon, guitarist Bobby “Raw” Anderson, drummer Jay McMillan, and bassist/keyboardist Mikey Wagner—bringing their high-energy live performances and emotional storytelling to both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners. While special guests have yet to be announced, the excitement is already building for a tour that promises more than just a trip down memory lane.

The group’s origins date back to 2005, when McMahon launched Jack’s Mannequin as a deeply personal project following the success of his first band, Something Corporate. The debut album Everything In Transit went on to earn Gold certification, powered by the fan-favorite single “Dark Blue.” Subsequent albums The Glass Passenger (2008) and People and Things (2011) both charted in the Billboard Top 10, solidifying Jack’s Mannequin as one of the era’s most impactful alt-rock acts.

Despite their success, the band officially went on hiatus in 2012, leading McMahon to launch his solo project Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. Since then, he’s become an outspoken advocate for young adults battling cancer, founding the Dear Jack Foundation in 2006. A portion of proceeds from The MFEO Tour—$1 from every ticket sold—will benefit the nonprofit, which provides crucial programming and support for adolescent and young adult cancer patients and survivors.

Beyond the tour, Jack’s Mannequin will perform at major festivals in 2025 including Bonnaroo, When We Were Young, Summerfest, and SXSW. McMahon will also return to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a special, sold-out edition of his acclaimed Three Pianos performance in July.

Reflecting on what’s next, McMahon is driven by more than just the music—he’s inspired by connection.

“Jack’s was always two things: a studio project and a live band that toured relentlessly,” he says. “I’m so excited to bring it all back to life onstage for the fans that made it possible to take that strange and beautiful ride.”

Reserved by nature but a force in the kitchen, 69-year-old Rogers Park resident Mark Warnaar recently found himself in a fierce, neck-and-neck culinary competition with chefs from across the country.

Warnaar was a standout finalist in the James Beard Foundation’s national Favorite Chef competition—a celebration of top chefs, passionate home cooks, and food artists pushing boundaries with creativity and heart. While he didn’t take home the $25,000 prize or the Taste of Home magazine cover feature, his journey captured the hearts of hundreds across the country who voted for him over several weeks.

Originally from Beverly, Mark trained under world-class chefs and honed his craft in some of Chicago’s iconic kitchens—including Tango, Maxine’s, Restaurant, and Bastille. He even served as a recipe tester for a nationally distributed cookbook. But for over 20 years, Mark has dedicated his culinary talent to something far more personal: community.

Once a month—and for major Jewish holidays like Hanukkah and Passover—Mark creates multi-course, globally inspired kosher-style dinners for Edgewater’s Emanuel Congregation, a reform synagogue. His themed menus have included everything from Mediterranean feasts and “April in Paris” nights to Korean spreads and Irish pub-style dishes. Each meal is made with love, precision, and purpose.

Whether he’s frying 700 latkes for Hanukkah or serving up Patagonian stew for Share Shabbat, Mark’s mission has always been simple: “I just want to cook and watch people have fun.”

For two decades, Mark has volunteered his time, energy, and skills—asking for nothing in return. While he may not seek the spotlight, his culinary contributions are worthy of celebration. He’s a true unsung hero of Chicago, using food to bring people together and build lasting bonds within his community.

As Mark approaches his 70th birthday this September, his legacy of service, flavor, and heart deserves to be shared with all of Chicago.

Chicago’s iconic Old Town Art Fair proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary on June 14–15, 2025, with a historic first: a specially commissioned commemorative poster titled Soaring Around Old Town by acclaimed local artist Chuck Meyers.

A full-time Chicago painter for over 23 years and a Fair exhibitor for more than a decade, Meyers created the piece using a series of drone photography sessions throughout the Old Town Triangle neighborhood. His work, known for capturing the character of Chicago’s side streets, alleys, and transportation routes, offers a vibrant aerial portrait that honors the Fair’s deep-rooted connection to the city’s architecture and charm.

Since its founding in 1948, the Old Town Art Fair has become one of the oldest juried art fairs in the country, and a cultural highlight of Chicago’s summer festival season. While the Fair traditionally selects existing artwork from exhibiting artists for its annual poster, Soaring Around Old Town is the Fair’s first-ever commissioned poster, marking a visual milestone in its 75-year history. A complete archive of collectible posters is available online for art collectors and history buffs alike.

This landmark year promises to be the Fair’s most festive yet, with over 230 artists from across the U.S. showcasing work in a wide variety of media: painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, printmaking, glass, fiber, jewelry, and more. Each artist is hand-selected by a jury of art professionals, including gallery owners, curators, and established artists, ensuring exceptional quality and diversity.

Fair hours are:

• Saturday, June 14: 10am–7pm
• Sunday, June 15: 10am–6pm

Suggested entry donation is $12 for adults; children are admitted free. All proceeds directly support local schools, cultural organizations, and neighborhood preservation efforts through the Old Town Triangle Association, a nonprofit community organization.

Beyond visual arts, the Fair features:

• Live music on two stages
• Delicious food and drinks from beloved Chicago vendors
• A lively Children’s Corner with crafts and interactive activities
• The return of the Garden Walk, offering self-guided tours of over 50 hidden and historic gardens throughout the Old Town Triangle

The Fair annually attracts 30,000+ visitors, making it one of the most attended and beloved Chicago summer events.

This year’s Emerging Artist Booth has been awarded to Annabelle Sigmond, whose vivid paintings explore nature, geography, and climate change—adding a fresh and relevant voice to the Fair’s legacy.

The Old Town Art Fair is a uniquely Chicago experience, combining world-class art with the intimate charm of a historic neighborhood. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the cobblestone streets, discover hidden gardens, and learn more about the storied architecture and community that has made Old Town a destination for decades.

Please note: The Old Town Art Fair is a separate event from the Wells Street Art Festival, which also takes place the same weekend.

For more information, visit oldtownartfair.org and follow @OldTownArtFair on Instagram and Facebook for updates and sneak peeks.

What to Expect at the 2025 Old Town Art FairA Weekend of Art, Music, Food & Garden WalksExplore the Heart of Old Town

In a rapidly changing world, Downstage Arts is a nonprofit organization in Chicago making a powerful difference by providing free, professional-level performing arts training to young people ages 5 to 35. Since launching in January 2020, the program has grown by over 3,900% in student participation, helping to build a more inclusive and diverse future for the arts.

Through vocal training, performance coaching, and teaching artist development, Downstage Arts empowers BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and underrepresented communities with the tools they need to thrive in the performing arts industry. Led by career professionals, all programming is completely tuition-free—training that would otherwise cost over $10,000 per student.

🎓 100% of students in our Teen Cohort Program have been accepted into top college programs across the country!

📍 Based in Chicago

🌟 Focused on equity, empowerment, and access

🎶 Changing lives through the arts

🔗 Learn more or get involved: https://www.downstagearts.org/

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.

Looking for one of the best food festivals in Chicago this summer? Mark your calendar for the Fourth Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest, happening May 30–June 1, 2025, in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood. This year, the popular event expands to three full days of mouthwatering hot dogs, live music, local vendors, and family-friendly fun!

Hosted by the Six Corners Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Vienna Beef, the Windy City Hot Dog Fest 2025 celebrates the Windy City’s most iconic street food. Whether you’re a purist who insists on mustard only or you dare to top your dog with ketchup (gasp!), this event is for hot dog lovers of all kinds.

Location: 4000 N. Milwaukee Avenue, between Cuyler Ave. and Irving Park Rd.

Dates & Times:

Friday, May 30 – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 31 – Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 1 – Noon to 10:00 p.m.

• Live music from local and regional performers on the main stage
• A Kids’ Area with activities and games
• Local artisan vendors including Polar Bare Bath (handmade soaps), Lil Bird Kitchens (jarred relishes), and Papa Caps Foods (hot sauces)
• The Top Dog Parade on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. – Bring your pup and join the fun!

Nine of Chicagoland’s top hot dog vendors will be serving up their unique takes on the classic dog—all competing for the coveted Top Dog Award. Festival-goers can sample from:

Chicago’s Dog House

Byron’s Hot Dogs

J’s Bacon Hot Dogs

Baked Cheese Haus

Bust Outs

Sausage Fest Food Truck

Frannie’s Cafe

Tandoor Char House

You get to vote for your favorite vendor!

This year’s hot dog innovations include the fiery Clifford the Big Red Dog from Chicago’s Dog House—a jumbo quarter-pound hot dog topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and melted cheese. Craving a Mexican twist? Try the Sonora-style bacon-wrapped hot dogs from J’s Bacon Hot Dogs.

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the ultimate hot dog fan? Join the Hot Dog Eating Contest on Saturday, May 31 at 3:30 p.m. Only five participants will compete in this five-minute challenge. Register in advance at windycityhotdogfest.com or on-site (if spots are available). Bragging rights included!

Whether you’re a Chicago foodie, a hot dog enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun summer festival in Chicago, this is the perfect event to kick off your June. Bring your appetite, your family, and even your dog for a celebration of all things hot dog!

Plan your visit now at windycityhotdogfest.com and follow along on social media for vendor updates and entertainment schedules.

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.

🌭 What is the Windy City Hot Dog Fest?📍 Festival Location and Dates🌭 Chicago’s Top Hot Dog Vendors Compete for “Top Dog” Title🌶️ New & Unique Hot Dog Creations🌭 Hot Dog Eating Contest

The Goonies Live in Concert | 40th Anniversary at Chicago's Auditorium Theatre.

Hey you guys!

Get ready to relive the adventure of a lifetime—The Goonies is hitting the big screen like never before! The Auditorium Theatre (Chicago’s historic gem at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive) and the acclaimed Chicago Philharmonic are teaming up once again for their second season of The Auditorium Philms Concert Series—a unique, multi-sensory experience where legendary films come alive with a full orchestra performing the score live.

Next up in the series? _The Goonies 40th Anniversary In Concert with the Chicago Philharmonic—a one-night-only event happening Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 PM. Watch the beloved 1985 cult classic on the big screen while the Philharmonic performs Dave Grusin’s iconic score right in sync with the film. It’s nostalgia, live music, and movie magic all rolled into one.

🎟️ Tickets start at $69.50 and are available now at auditoriumtheatre.org or by calling the Ticket Service Center at 312.341.2300.

Bringing the whole crew? Take advantage of the Family Pack deal—buy 4 to 8 tickets online using the promo code FAMILY and save (just note: it’s only available online and can’t be used on previously purchased tickets).

This marks the 11th film concert the Chicago Philharmonic has performed at The Auditorium since 2022. Fresh off two sold-out shows of La La Land in Concert earlier this month, the Philms series continues to reimagine what a night at the symphony can be—beyond classical and into full-on cinematic celebration.

And who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? Directed by Richard Donner and written by Chris Columbus from a story by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies follows a group of kids who stumble upon an old map and set off on a thrilling journey to find hidden treasure—dodging traps, facing villains, and bonding along the way. It’s packed with heart, laughs, and yes, Baby Ruth bars.

Don’t miss your chance to see—and hear—your favorite films like never before. Goonies never say die, but tickets definitely do sell out.

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.

Remember the Silent Film era? Most people don’t, but for one night, audiences can experience it just as their great-grandparents did. On April 3, Guarneri Hall will host a special screening of The General, Buster Keaton’s 1926 Civil War comedy masterpiece, featuring a live performance of an original score by composer-pianist Stephen Prutsman and members of NEXUS Chamber Music.

The nonprofit Guarneri Hall, a state-of-the-art, custom-built classical music venue in downtown Chicago at 11 E. Adams St., presents another evening of Keaton’s cinematic genius following last season’s successful screening. The performance runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will be followed by a silent-film-themed reception, allowing audience members to engage directly with the artists. Tickets for the show ($40) are sold out, but a waitlist is available by emailing operations manager Tanya Landau at [email protected].

Widely regarded as Keaton’s greatest work, The General was one of the first films selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Inspired by a real Civil War incident, the film follows Southern railway engineer Johnnie Gray as he embarks on a daring mission to recover his stolen locomotive—and rescue his fiancée—from Union spies. Keaton’s blend of thrilling action and signature physical comedy has made the film a cornerstone of silent cinema.

Prutsman’s score enhances the film’s humor and dramatic tension, offering audiences a fresh way to experience Keaton’s brilliance. Performing artists include Stephen Prutsman (piano and composer), Steven Copes and Gabriela Lara (violins), Doyle Armbrust (viola), and Lidanys Graterol (cello).

For more information about Guarneri Hall and upcoming events, visit Guarneri Hall’s website.

Parents looking for a fun and interactive way to keep their kids entertained over spring break can head to Water Tower Place for the Hershey Super Sweet Adventure, featuring new activities just in time for the season.

Families can enjoy hands-on games, interactive exhibits and sweet experiences celebrating some of The Hershey Company’s most beloved confections, including Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates, Twizzlers Twists and Jolly Rancher candies.

New additions this year promise even more immersive fun for guests of all ages. From larger-than-life candy displays to engaging activities, the event offers a unique way to experience the magic of Hershey.

Tickets & Information:

The Hershey Super Sweet Adventure takes place at Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets are available for purchase online in advance and at the event, though early reservations are recommended due to high demand.

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, Brando’s Speakeasy offers a unique blend of vintage charm, handcrafted cocktails and one of the city’s best karaoke experiences. This intimate lounge, known for its speakeasy-style ambiance and lively atmosphere, has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking for a fun night out.

Brando’s Speakeasy, located at 343 S. Dearborn St., captures the essence of old-school Chicago with its dim lighting, cozy leather seating and vintage décor. While it’s dressed up like a vintage cocktail lounge, the seven-nights-a-week karaoke doesn’t exactly make it ideal for a first date—unless you’re trying to show off your amazing pipes. The venue’s speakeasy-inspired aesthetic is complemented by an extensive cocktail menu featuring classic and signature drinks. Guests can enjoy expertly mixed libations like the Old Fashioned, Brando’s Manhattan or the signature Purple Rain, all crafted by skilled bartenders who bring a touch of artistry to every pour.

What sets Brando’s apart is its renowned karaoke experience. You’ll have no trouble finding the song you’re looking for among the bar’s catalog of more than 300,000 tracks, and daily drink specials make it easy to get some affordable liquid courage before you test out your rendition of Blondie’s “Call Me” for the crowd. Unlike traditional karaoke bars, Brando’s offers an upscale yet unpretentious setting where patrons can take the stage and belt out their favorite tunes. The diverse song selection, professional sound system and enthusiastic crowd make it a must-visit for karaoke lovers of all skill levels. Whether performing solo or with a group, guests are sure to feel like stars in this lively atmosphere.

In addition to karaoke, Brando’s frequently hosts themed nights and special events, adding to its dynamic appeal. The venue’s central location makes it an ideal destination for a post-work happy hour, a weekend night out or even a spontaneous evening of entertainment.

Brando’s Speakeasy remains a standout in Chicago’s nightlife scene by combining the allure of a speakeasy with the excitement of karaoke. Whether stopping by for a craft cocktail, a memorable performance or simply to soak in the vibrant energy, visitors are guaranteed a night to remember.

For more information, including hours and upcoming events, visit Brando’s Speakeasy’s website or follow them on social media.

Always on the hunt for new music? Buckle up, because I’ve got something truly special for you.

Straight out of Ukraine, the electrifying folk group YAGÓDY is bringing their powerful, hypnotic sound to North America for the first time this spring. With primal percussion, layered vocal harmonies, and immersive, ethno-dramatic performances, this all-female ensemble is not just a band—they’re a cultural force.

The women of YAGÓDY are on a mission: to preserve, revive, and reimagine the rich traditions of Ukrainian folk music. Dressed in stunning, hand-embroidered garments like the iconic Vyshyvanka, their performances are as visually striking as they are sonically unforgettable.

Their sound can be raw and rebellious one moment, heartbreaking and delicate the next. YAGÓDY’s music speaks to the deep roots of their homeland—it’s a celebration of spirit, land, and lineage. Or, as they describe it:

“Songs of wild tribes. The voice of your ancestors. Live energy. A dance with voices. This is how our nature smells. This is how our blood sounds.”

Their self-titled debut album, YAGÓDY (2020), introduced listeners to their unique interpretations of Ukrainian, Bulgarian, and Serbian folk songs. In 2024, they captivated audiences at the Eurovision Songwriting Contest with their original piece “Tsunamia,” placing fifth in Ukraine’s national finals.

Since forming in 2016, YAGÓDY has performed at major festivals across Europe, enchanting crowds in Poland, Germany, and beyond. Now, they’re poised to share their bold, evocative artistry with North American audiences.

The group was founded by actress and vocalist Zoriana Dybovska, who fled Donetsk in 2014 following Russia’s military invasion and resettled in Lviv. There, she united a group of musicians and educators who shared her passion for preserving Ukrainian folk traditions. The name YAGÓDY—Ukrainian for “berries”—was first given to them by a concert announcer and stuck like folklore.

What started as a grassroots collective has blossomed into a globally recognized act known for intense, ritualistic performances and genre-defying interpretations of Eastern European music.