January 17, 2024

Welcome Jessica Zipkin, New Director of Communications & Programs!

The Village Chicago is thrilled to announce that Jessica Zipkin has joined our office team as our new Director of Communications & Programs. With a BA in English from Kent State University and an extensive background in nonprofit management, healthcare, and the arts, Jessica strives to bring quality programming and exceptional experiences to the Village community. She embraces the notion that it takes a village to make the world a better and more beautiful place, and is excited to be a part of that process.  Jessica is an experienced glassblower and potter and is always up for a new artistic challenge.

The New Village Scrabble Group is Seeking More Players!

Love scrabble? A group of members have started a new group that meets at alternating members’ homes every two weeks on Thursday afternoons. The next game will be on Thursday, January 25 at 1pm in Lincoln Park. If you’re interested in attending or receiving updates on future games, please email [email protected]

Balancing Act

Improving physical balance as we age is crucial for maintaining overall wellbeing and preventing falls and injuries. Changes in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and sensory perception can contribute to a decline in balance. Here's how and why it's important to work on improving physical balance:

• Regular Exercise:
• Engage in activities that focus on balance, such as tai chi, yoga, pilates, and walking. These exercises promote core strength and stability.
• Include strength training exercises to maintain muscle mass, essential for supporting the body's structure and balance.
• Proprioception Exercises:
• Proprioception involves the body's awareness of its position in space. Include exercises that challenge proprioception, such as standing on one leg or using balance boards.
• Flexibility Training:
• Maintain joint flexibility through stretching exercises. Improved flexibility contributes to better overall mobility and reduces the risk of falls.
• Functional Movements:
• Incorporate functional movements into your routine, mimicking activities you perform in daily life. This helps improve coordination and balance in real-world scenarios.
• Vision and Hearing Care:
• Regularly check and address vision and hearing issues, as these senses play a crucial role in maintaining balance. Corrective measures, such as glasses or hearing aids, can enhance sensory perception.
• Proper Footwear:
• Wear comfortable and supportive footwear with good traction. Proper footwear is essential for stability, especially on different surfaces.

In paying attention to maintaining, and strengthening, our balance over time, we reduce the risk of falls, enhance our mobility, and ability to perform daily activities, and increase confidence in navigating at home and out in the community which impacts our outlook on aging. Physical balance is interconnected with our overall health and wellbeing, affording us the ability to continue to engage in the activities we enjoy. 

This section is always open for members to engage with each other! We want to hear from you! If you just had a great meal at a new restaurant, see an event you think others will enjoy, want a recommendation for a new service provider, or need help with something that another member could assist with, send an email to [email protected].

Seeking Insurance Broker Recommendations 

A member is seeking recommendations for a good insurance broker that handles Medicare Supplement/MediGap Insurance. Please share your recommendations by emailing [email protected] or calling 773.248.8700.

How to Keep Your Home Safely Warm

People shouldn’t use their ovens or stoves to warm their homes — but they can safely use space heaters. Here’s what you need to know as freezing temperatures continue throughout the region.

Click here to read more from Block Club Chicago.

Chicago Restaurant Week Cheat Sheet

Chicago Restaurant Week is back for its 17th year, offering special prix fixe menus at participating spots in Chicago and the suburbs. This year's edition features a wide range of options all across the city, from Rogers Park to Hyde Park. The 17-day celebration of local cuisine includes many of the best restaurants in Chicago as well as beloved neighborhood destinations.

Click here to read more from Time Out Chicago

Join Village annual sponsor Brookdale Lake Shore Drive for a free Open House on Tuesday January 23 from 11AM to 2PM, featuring a tour of the community and refreshments. Additional open houses will be held on February 27 and March 26. For reservations and more information, call (773) 880-2960

2024 VIP Membership Cards Arriving in Your Mailbox Soon!

Your 2024 VIP membership card entitles you to Village Insider Perks (VIP) privileges and special discounts at popular restaurants, retailers, and local businesses that are member recommended.

Click here to see the complete list of participating merchants. Consider printing it so you don't miss out on a chance to save.

To recommend a business you would like us to add, or to leave feedback about your experience with a participating business, please email [email protected]. Thank you!