Chicago and the North Shore

Chicago is unique. It is the only completely corrupt city in America.

-Charles Merriam, unsuccessful mayoral candidate in 1911

The Chicago skyline viewed from the Planetarium

 It's been great seeing family and friends back in our old stompin' grounds. We've had some wonderful get-togethers and a few long walks along the lake and down the streets of Winnetka.

Erin walking along the streets of Winnetka

New Trier, Erin's old high school (student population -- app. 4,000)

A typical Winnetka home

And one of the things I miss most -- Lake Michigan:

Steve had a brunch in his new (killer) apartment on the lakefront:

Back Row: Steve, Ben, me, Erin, Kristen and Jonathan; Front Row: Victoria, Pam, Stephanie, Paul, Noah and Bill

Paul playing catch with Noah on the lawn behind Steve's place

And another get-together for (nephew) Sam's 20th birthday at Mary's apartment:

Emma delivering the cake she made (from scratch) to Sammy

Sammy making a wish before blowing out the candles

Steve, Sam, Mary and Emma

Paul, Kristen, Noah, me, Erin, Dad, Sammy and Steve on the couch and Emma and Mary sitting in front

I also spent some time in the city with Steve:

Steven and I dropped Emma off at Second City, where she's taking an improv class

Hancock Building

 

The view of the Chicago skyline from Museum Campus

Museum Campus and Monroe Harbor

Bonus quiz -- who is this masked man?:

"I am going to St. Petersburg, Florida, tomorrow. Let the worthy citizens of Chicago get their liquor the best way they can. I'm sick of the job -- it's a thankless one and full of grief. I've been spending the best years of my life as a public benefactor."
-Al Capone (1927)