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Business Meeting How-To’s:

Posted on | by John Mark Mobley

The Business Meeting will be on Thursday, June 13th.

Guideline #1: Everything is to be done decently and in order. So we follow Robert’s Rules of Order.

Guideline #2: We need you to attend, or share your ideas with leadership.

Guideline #3: Get involved. Leaders sometimes need to delegate responsibility to someone. As you get involved, you may have an opportunity to become a leader yourself. Leaders are expected to serve the GCCC community.

Guideline #4: Know the Constitution and Bylaws of the Club: https://www.glensideccc.com//wp-content/uploads/2020/12/GCCC-Constitution.pdf

Guideline #5: Know how and when to amend the Constitution and Bylaws of the Club.

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CoCoFEST Q&A and FAQ

Posted on | by John Mark Mobley

How to prepare for the CoCoFEST!

Q) What is a list of key terms I should know?

  • A) See the two lists below.
  • Key terms #1:
  • CoCo……….. => Color Computer
  • TRS-80…….. => Tandy Radio Shack usually with a Z80 microcontroller.
  • …………………. => Sometimes affectionately referred to as a Trash 80.
  • CoCo 1……. => TRS-80 Color Computer (1980-1983)
  • CoCo 2……. => Tandy Color Computer 2 (1983-1986)
  • CoCo 3……. => Tandy Color Computer 3 (1986-1991)
  • CoCoFEST! => A vintage computer festival featuring the CoCo 1/2/3 computers,
  • …………………. => MC-10 computer, and clones.
  • CoCo Nut.. => A Color Computer enthusiast is sometimes affectionately called this.
  • MC6809….. => Motorola Corporation 6809 Microprocessor (for the CoCo 1/2/3)
  • 6309………… => Hitachi’s CMOS version of the Motorola 6809
  • ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
  • Key terms #2:
  • MC-10…….. => TRS-80 MC-10 Microcomputer (Micro Color Computer) (1983)
  • MC6803….. => Motorola Corporation 6803 Microprocessor (for the MC-10)

Q) What are the general guidelines of vintage computer festivals?

  • Guideline #1: No hard and fast rule to define what is a retro computer.
  • Guideline #2: Teaching, learning, and history are both useful and fun.
  • Guideline #3: Do not discriminate against other people’s spin on the retro computer hobby.
  • Guideline #4: Never ask, “Why do you like those old junky computers?”
  • Guideline #5: Invite others to join in the fun and promote the various events.
  • Guideline #5: You can call us retro computer enthusiasts.
  • Guideline #6: The show is more about the people than anything else.
  • Guideline #7: People are more important than things.

Q) Why do you call it the “Last”?

Q) How do I reserve some booth space?

Q) How do I reserve time to give a presentation?

  • A) Contact Grant Leighty.  He can be reached at: https://www.glensideccc.com/about-us/

Q) Does Glenside accept credit cards as payment at the CoCoFEST?

  • A) Yes, but not all vendors do.

Q) What should I bring?

  • A1) Musical instruments.
  • A2) We hold two auctions, so bring stuff you want to keep out of landfills to go into the auctions, and bring some spending money or a credit card to spend on auction items to add to your collection that you didn’t have a chance to purchase when you were younger.  The money from the auctions goes to help pay for the CoCoFEST!  Buy books, manuals, software, cables, joysticks, disk drives, computers, fanfold paper, and such.  If you bring an item and it does not sell, then consider taking it back home with you.  Printers generally do not sell, and no one wants to be stuck with them.
  • A3) People are selling hardware and software (outside of the auction) so bring some spending money for that.
  • A4) Charge the battery in your camera and bring it.
  • A5) Bring hardware you want repaired or upgraded.
  • A6) Bring your ideas.
  • A7) Chicago has toll roads, but toll booths are no longer manned. Many toll booths no longer accept coins. If you do not have an electronic IPASS/EZ-PASS unit or sticker for paying tolls, you can pay by plate by signing up at https://www.getipass.com/ or the Tollway Authority can mail you an invoice that you can pay online. Or use your GPS and avoid toll roads altogether.
  • A8) An ice scraper for your car, just in case.
  • A9) If you are driving, consider bringing a spare television (TV) or monitor. CRT monitors can be useful too.
  • A10) Do you have an old landline phone, phone wire, fax machine, or modem, that you can bring to the CoCoFEST!?
  • A11) Do you have some old items from Radio Shack or the 80s that you think people would like to see again? Like an old VCR tape of some old movie.
  • A12) Bring some 1980s-style candy to the CoCoFEST! Do you remember Moon Pies?
  • A13) Buy something in the auction, play with it for a year, and put it in next year’s auction as a tax write-off.

Q) What should I bring for AC power needs as a vendor?

  • A1) Bring extension cords, power strips, and tape to hold them down.
  • A1) Consider bringing a number of 8-inch extension cords. They are good for dealing with wall warts and other such things. For example: https://www.homedepot.com/p/0-5-ft-16-3-Extension-Cord-HDC201/303467490
  • A2) Consider bringing a straight-on 8-inch extension cord. They are good for when you need a plug to be straight-on and not at an angle. For example: https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Cable-6991-Liberator-Extension/dp/B001GLWL0O/
  • A3) Consider bringing a power squid. It will allow you to connect several wall warts, USB chargers, and other things, no matter the orientation of the plug. It should look something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-31503-PowerSquid-Flexible-Multiplier/dp/B007XIBV0K/
  • A4) Consider bringing a ground cheater plug.
  • A5) Consider bringing a smart plug with power monitoring capability, an AC voltmeter, or an electrical ground checker. to help diagnose AC power issues.
  • A6) Think about solutions to running a high power appliances like a 1500 watt hot air gun. This could cases cause a circuit braker to trip. But a simple power management system can be made with Home Assistant that could solve this problem. You will need two smart plugs with power monitoring and an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). When the UPS output power exceeds 200 watts the UPS input power is disconnected. And when the UPS output power drops below 100 watts the UPS input power is restored.

Q) What should I bring for DC power needs as a vendor?

  • A1) Consider bringing a USB squid cable like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BL7KLGKH
  • A2) Consider bringing a USB data blocker charge only cable. I always carry one with me. It is useful for when you need to use a public charging station but do not want your personal data to be stolen or have malware installed on your cell phone. Mine looks like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B099F521JZ/
  • A3) Consider bringing a single port 100-watt or more USB-C charger with Power Delivery (PD) and a 100-watt or more USB-C cable. Retractable cables can be nice. And cables with more than one connector on the other end can be nice. You may be able to run a laptop computer off of this. And with a little work you can run a CoCo off of this. Also you can offer to charge someone’s smartphone.
  • A4) Consider bringing a USB power meter.
  • A5) Consider bringing a USB-C Power Deliver (PD) to adjustable power supply converter. Or bring a USB-C PD dummy breakout or USB-C PD. adjustable voltage power trigger module like this: https://www.adafruit.com/product/5807
  • A6) Consider bringing an adjustable power supply.
  • A7) Consider bringing a USB power bank. I have a USB power bank that accepts four rechargeable 18650 cells and outputs a USB charger. I have extra 18650 cells for when the the battery of 4 cells dies.

Q) Is free Wi-Fi available to all at the CoCoFEST?

  • A) Yes! The hotel Wi-Fi may require you to agree to the terms of service and some devices like an ESP-32 serial-to-Wi-Fi may not be able to do this. Some smartphones can be used as a Wi-Fi hotspot to get around this problem.

Q) What kind of computer should I bring to show at the CoCoFEST?

  • A1) CoCos, Tandy, TRS-80, Radio Shack, and clones.
  • A2) Anything that runs a Motorola 6809, Hitachi 6309, Motorola 68k, Zilog Z80, Intel 8080, Intel 8008, Intel 4004
  • A3) Southwest Technical Products Corp. (SWTPC)
  • A4) Tomcat, MM/1, AT306, Delmar System IV/ Peripheral Technology PT68K-4
  • A5) FPGA, Microprocessor, Arduino, Raspberry Pi and such.
  • A6) Calculator, adding machine, slide rule, and abacus.
  • A7) Analog computer
  • A8) Mechanical computers

Q) Would people want to see NitrOS-9/6809 driving a teletype machine, teleprinter, paper terminal or silent 700?

  • A) Yes!

Q) Would people like to see a plain old telephone bulletin board system in operation using 300 baud?

  • A) Yes!

Q) Can I arrange for my booth to be next to someone else?

  • A) If you sign up early enough, then you can select the tables you want. This is done on TandyList.

Q) What is the attendance like?

  • A) 100 to 150 people are likely to attend and about 97% of them are male.

Q) Will there be an opportunity for non-vendors to swap/trade/sell hardware?

  • A) The entire event consists of trading, swapping, buying and selling software, hardware, other stuff, stories, anecdotes and knowledge. I think you would be hard pressed to not find time to do this.

Q) How do I get from the airport to the hotel?

  • A1) You can take a rental car, taxi, Uber, Lyft, or limo.
  • A2) If by taxi, I would recommend American Taxi (AT).

Q) What should I wear?

  • A1) A Hawaiian shirt and blue jeans would be fine.
  • A2) A CoCoFEST shirt and wash pants are also fine.

Q) Is the hotel handicapped accessible and can I bring a mobility scooter?

  • A1) Yes!
  • A2) Note: You can rent a mobility scooter and we will help you get it out of the trunk if you like.
    Please consider bringing someone who likes these events and needs help getting around.
    It just may do you both some good.

Q) How do I know I am getting a good room rate at the hotel?

  • A) Check out the link below:
The 32nd Annual “Last” Chicago CoCoFEST!

Q) When should I arrive?

  • A) Get there before dark on Friday.  Sunset is 7:54 PM.

Q) When can I set up my booth/table?

  • A) It may be possible for a few people to set up on Friday evening between 3:00-11:59 PM.  Otherwise, you can set up on Saturday morning between 8:00-9:00 AM.

Q) What are my options for gluten free food?

  • A1) Jimmy John’s sells a lettuce wrap.
  • A2) Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Schaumburg, IL
  • A3) Pizzeria Uno, Schiller Park, IL

Q) How do you know how many people are coming to the catered dinner?

Q) Is the CoCoFEST! in a high crime area?

  • A1) No!  Absolutely not!
  • A2) Beware – Illinois has speed cameras and red-light cameras. This is a crime. But there is an app for that!
  • A3) Don’t speed through road construction sites even on the weekend when workers are not present, unless there is a sign that says it is ok. I think I am telling you right about this.
  • A4) In the suburbs of Chicago, I have seen a lot of beggars standing at an intersection with a stop light begging for money. I do not give them money. I want to be ready for when the light turns green.

Q) Is this a busy area?

  • A) Busy is a relative term.  Downtown Chicago is very busy.  Carol Stream is half or a third as busy.  And parking is free.

Q) What if I have more questions?

  • A) Go to the About Us tab of our website.
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February 24/25: 2024 Virtual CoCoFEST!

Posted on | by Jim Brain

At the height of the pandemic, Glenside found it would not be possible to hold our annual CoCoFEST event. We were not alone, with every classic computing event canceled in 2020, with some cancelled yet again in 2021. I know I was disappointed, and I suspect most were. Folks come to our event for many reasons, some for the platform itself while others for the friendships. That year, we all had to be content with virtual visits with friends.

Many GCCC members also view or participate in a weekly video video cast called “The CoCo Nation” (then named CoCoTALK!) and they felt an event of some type should still happen. So, they quickly arranged an unofficial Virtual CoCoFEST! around the time we had originally planned for the actual event. You can view it here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2PgbMjWkDM). Though it was not an officially sanctioned event, I think it helped many who were disappointed a physical event could not be held.

Time marches on, and, even though we had to delay our 2021 fest until later in the year, GCCC restarted our face-to-face events. We held the belated 29th event in November 2021, and will host the 32nd on May 4 and 5 2024. I hope we will see you at CoCoFEST! in Carol Stream, IL!

As someone who works remotely and spends a large portion of their week on virtual teleconferences via Zoom and Microsoft Teams, I empathize with folks who don’t want to spend another second on camera. That said, as someone who presented in a number of virtual 2020 and 2021 events, including the virtual CoCoFEST!, I found value in virtually presenting:

  • As we all found in 2020, it’s not always possible to travel to a physical location. Even though Glenside has returned to physical events, some folks are either too far away, don’t have the means, or physically cannot travel to an event. If they are just an attendee, streams of the show floor and the presentations may suffice, but if they want to present, we’ll miss that opportunity.
  • To address the above issue, some would suggest a virtual presentation at CoCoFEST!. It’s entirely possible, and I believe we’ve done it a few times. However, we feel it best to give preference to in-person presentations, and we often have enough of those to fully fill our speaker schedule.
  • And, speaking of our presentation schedule, there are limitations. By the time you factor in starting the show at a reasonable hour, Saturday and Sunday lunch, our Saturday auction, Saturday dinner, and our need to be out of the venue by 5PM Sunday, there are a limited number of half-hour and hour presentation slots available. Once they are claimed, we’re full.
  • There are some projects that don’t lend themselves well to travel. Do you have your CoCo 3 running your home entertainment system? That’s awesome, but probably not all that portable. Is your MC-10 handling data entry for a home weather system? Maybe that Alice is living a second life handling NC plots for your plasma cutter. Sure, one could take videos or pictures and create a presentation for our flagship event, but there’s nothing cooler than seeing a CoCo or MC-10/Alice in action
  • Some folks need a bit of a “push” after the holidays to resume their project work towards a CoCoFEST! completion. Demonstrating your efforts in January/February while your creation may just be a bunch of breadboards or not yet plug-n-play as a way to motivate you through the home stretch or even to whet CoCoFEST! attendees’ appetites a few months prior to the show can be a compelling argument.
  • Maybe you’re not sure about your ability to present in front of an audience, or maybe you feel your project or demonstration is not as important as others and you don’t hog a spot. I doubt either is true, but maybe a virtual presentation is an easier and safer lift.

For these reasons, I’ve long thought a virtual event in January/February would be a great addition to the yearly event lineup. Thus, Glenside and The CoCo Nation have partnered to hold the 2024 Virtual Fest on February 24/25, 2024. As The CoCo Nation has much more expertise holding video events, they’ll be handling much of the logistics. Mark Overholser (cocotech@thecoconation.com) is accepting presentation requests, and the event will be streamed on The CoCo Nation and the GCCC Youtube and Facebook channels.

For those wondering, GCCC is still holding our in-person event in May, and we’ll stream as much content as we can (last year, we had some Internet bandwidth issues, but we’re working to address those for 2024). This virtual event does not replace our normal yearly one, but I do hope we can drive some virtual value for the Tandy Color Computer community. If you have something you think is of interest, please send a note to Mark, even if you’re unsure if it’s “worthy” or a presentation slot. In fact, I’d go so far to say that this is an ideal time for those smaller and/or simpler presentations. Are you a young enthusiast just getting into the community? Take some time to present on your entrance, or how you’re getting along on finding information about the platform. Do you want to test the waters prior to the May event? This is your chance! There are a host of reasons to take advantage of this virtual event, and I hope folks take us up on the offer.

Above all, I hope the community enjoys this attempt to create something of value for the platform. I know it won’t appeal to everyone, but one size does not fit all, and this may be the best way to reach another part of the community.

I hope to see your on February 24 and February 25!

Jim Brain, 2023-24 Glenside Color Computer Club President

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2024 CoCoFEST!

Posted on | by John Mark Mobley

This is regarding the TRS-80 Color Computer, Tandy Color Computer, MC-10, and clones.

The Glenside Color Computer Club, Inc. is having two CoCoFEST! this year.
2024 Virtual CoCoFEST! Saturday, Feb 24th and Sunday, Feb 25th.
2024 In-Person CoCoFEST! Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th.
May 4th is Star Wars day because of the saying that goes something like this “May the 4th be with you!”
That is why we are having a Star Wars theme CoCoFEST!

Glenside is not set up to handle a Virtual CoCoFEST! so we have asked the CoCo Nation to do it for us. They moved the date on us because we did not give them enough time to pull it all together.

https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?threads/2024-virtual-cocofest.1246342/

https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?forums/events-and-organizations.69/

-John Mark Mobley (Glenside Color Computer Club, Inc. Vice-President)

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Passing of Steve Bjork, Computer Gaming Pioneer and CoCo Developer

Posted on | by Eric Canales

We regret to announce the passing of Steve Bjork at 65 years of age on April 10, 2023. Steve was a foundational figure in the world of the Color Computer and a passionate developer for the Tandy Color Computer. For those who wish to pay their final respects in person, Steve’s final resting place is at the Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth, California. Steve’s remarkable contributions have left a lasting impact on our community and will continue to inspire future generations.

More about Steven Bjork and who he was can be found here.

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Steve Bjork presenting next to a computer.

In Memoriam: Steve Bjork, Pioneer and trailblazer of Personal Computing and the Tandy Color Computer

Posted on | by Eric Canales

With a heavy heart, I tearfully announce the passing of Steve Bjork, a beloved pioneer in the world of computer gaming and a key figure in the Tandy Color Computer (CoCo) community. Steve’s career, marked by ingenuity and programmatic mastery, spanned over two decades, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of the CoCo and personal computing at large.

In the early years of computing, you could find him mingling with the likes of Steve Wozniak and Adam Osborne at the Homebrew Computer Club in Menlo Park. And just like these other pioneers of the computing age, Steve’s contributions weren’t limited to game development. He used his soldering iron just as much as he did the keyboard. He learned in college the importance of knowing both the hardware and the software side of a computer, and found great success in being able to handle both sides of the computer.

He took what he learned through The Homebrew Computer Club, in high school and college, and his experiences on the job at Radio Shack selling computers, and created hardware that found it’s uses across store shelves. He was particularly proud of his ability to corner the market on light pens by designing an inexpensive pen with good software. This was one of his personal favorite early accomplishments.

Steve then began his remarkable game making journey. His first published game was created in 1980, called “Space Ball” for the TRS-80 line of computers. This was an early showcase of his knack for games programming. Over the next few years he embedded himself as a cornerstone of the CoCo world, introducing classics like “Popcorn!” and “Audio Spectrum Analyzer” in 1981 and “Zaxxon” in 1983, a remarkable adaptation of the arcade favorite. He continued to make a multitude of game through the 80s like “Rampage” in 1989 and even into the 90s and spanning new console systems like “The Rocketeer” for the SNES. His games, known for their clever design and charm, brought joy to countless coconuts and gamers.

Steve’s greatest legacy is how deeply he inspired the entire community around the CoCo. You could find him at many Rainbowfests and CoCoFESTs, and other events over the years, even becoming a CoCo spokesman of sorts. He would speak, and teach others, and he would enjoy seeing what everybody was working on. Without Steve Bjork, the Color Computer would almost certainly have failed to become one of the most popular and beloved 8-bit machines that it is today.

As we say goodbye to Steve, we remember him for his kind spirit, his wonderful works, and his unwavering dedication to the art of game development and hardware design. His contributions and his passion have not only shaped the gaming world but have also touched the lives of countless individuals.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of innovation, inspiration, and innumerable fond memories in the hearts of those who played his games, used his hardware, and knew him. I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the CoCo community. Rest in peace, Steve Bjork. May your memory and your creations and the CoCo you loved so much live on forever.

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Online Emulators for TRS-80!

Posted on | by Grant Bloedow

I’m sure you’ve come here with the knowledge of the XRoar, MAME, CoCoPi and VCC emulators for the Color Computer and its family of hardware on your desktop/laptop computer.

Did you know there are a few emulators which run right in your modern web browser?

Try your hand at Microcolor BASIC 1.0 with an online MC-10 emulator. Or play your favorite CoCo 1, 2, or 3 games in the online XRoar available from the Color Computer Archive. But have you found the TRS-80 Model III javascript emulator?

The thumbnails above are links to their respective emulators.

I did a search to see what is available and this is what I’ve found. Are there more? Do you have an idea how to get the MAME emulation of the CoCos available in a browser? Up for a challenge? I’ve seen MAME booting other systems like the NES, SNES and maybe even an Atari 800.

If you’re able to find more, or build a working example… let’s see it!

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Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Posted on | by Grant Bloedow
Happy thansgiving!
Thanksgiving just isn’t the same without you, K?

As a community we are all grateful for your being a part of something so long lived and great! May your CoCo bring you back to the joy of something old, and excitement with something made new again through contributions from you all.

Wishing you community, family, friendship and always with a CoCo in mind!

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CoCoFEST! Restaurants

Posted on | by John Mark Mobley

Google Maps Search: “restaurants near Carol Stream, IL 60188”

Now choose Cuisine:
American
Barbecue
Chinese
French
Hamburger
Indian
Italian
Japanese
Mexican
Pizza
Seafood
Steak
Sushi
Thai

American:
Urban Counter, Fast Food Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Subway, Sandwich Shop, Wheaton, IL
Diana’s Red Hots, Hot Dog Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Chicken Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Wingstop, Chicken Wings Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Portillo’s/Barnelli’s, Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Jimmy John’s, Sandwich Shop, Lombard, IL
Chick-fil-A, Fast Food Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Fast Food Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Fahrenheit, American Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Stella’s Place, Café, Glendale Heights, IL
Brauer House, American Restaurant, Lombard, IL
Panera Bread, Café, Bloomingdale, IL
Potbelly, Sandwich Shop, Bloomingdale, IL
McAlister’s Deli, Sandwich Shop, Bloomingdale, IL
Noodles and Company, Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL

Bakery:
Alshakarchi Sweets and Bakery, Glendale Heights, IL
Crumbl Cookies, Bakery, Glendale Heights, IL
Hanna’s Bakery and Cafe, Bloomingdale, IL

Bar or Bar and Grill:
Chrissy’s Gaming Bar and Grill, Carol Stream, IL
The Pub, Carol Stream, IL
Sully’s Place, Bar, Wheaton, IL
Gametime Pub, Sports Bar, West Chicago, IL
Payoffs Bar and Grill, Bar and Grill, Carol Stream, IL
Miska’s Corner Store, Bar, Glendale Heights, IL
Little Jimmy’s, Bar, Glendale Heights, IL
Jaxx Pub and Grill, Bar and Grill, Glendale Heights, IL

Barbecue:
Steamboat BBQ, Barbeque Restaurant, Wheaton, IL
(closes early, 6 or 7 PM)

Breakfast:
Manny’s Cafe, Breakfast Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
First Watch, Breakfast Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Denny’s, Diner, Carol Stream, IL
Red Apple Pancake House, Carol Stream, IL
Burger Theory-Holiday Inn, Hotel, Carol Stream, IL

Candy:
Fannie May Chocolate Shop, Carol Stream, IL

Chinese:
China Buffet, Chinese Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Jin28, Chinese Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

Coffee:
Tredwell Coffee, Coffee Shop, Wheaton, IL
Dunkin’, Coffee Shop, Carol Stream, IL
Starbucks, Coffee Shop, Carol Stream, IL

Ethiopian:
Ethio Beans Ethiopian Restaurant and Cafe,
Ethiopian Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

French:
B Fresh Café, Restaurant, Milton Township, IL

German:
Schnitzel Platz, German Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL

Hamburger:
White Castle, Fast Food Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Burger Theory-Holiday Inn Carol Stream, Hotel, Carol Stream, IL
Burger King, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
McDonald’s, Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL (Scottish)
Wendy’s, Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers,
Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Five Guys, Fast Food Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Steak ‘n Shake, Hamburger Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Bo Burgerz, Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL

Ice Cream, Frozen Custard or Frozen Yogurt:
La Michoacana, Ice Cream Shop, Glendale Heights, IL
Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store, Ice Cream Shop, Bloomingdale, IL

Indian:
Saffron Restaurant, Indian Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Shaahi Biryani, Indian Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL

Irish:
Corned Beef Factory, Restaurant, West Chicago, IL

Italian:
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, Italian Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL

Japanese:
Abashiri Japanese Restaurant, Japanese Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL

Mexican:
Taco Real and Pupuseria, Mexican Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Gary Burritos, Mexican Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Taco Bell, Fast Food Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Good Tequilas Mexican Grill, Mexican Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
El Famous Burrito, Mexican Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Mexican Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Chili’s Grill and Bar, Tex-Mex Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
La Campana, Mexican Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL
Pozoleria Amiguitas, Mexican Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Amigas Restaurant, Mexican Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Burrito Parrilla Mexicana, Mexican Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Mis Tacos 2, Mexican Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

Middle Eastern Grill:
Nay Restaurant, Middle Eastern Grill, Glendale Heights, IL

Pizza:
Marchette’s Pizzeria, Pizza Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Addante’s Pizzeria, Pizza Restaurant, Wheaton, IL
Rosati’s Pizza, Pizza Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Papa Saverio’s Pizzeria, Pizza Restaurant, West Chicago, IL
Generoso Pizza, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Hanna’s Gaming Cafe, Glendale Heights, IL
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Curbsize Pickup or Delivery, Carol Stream IL
Maciano’s Pizza and Pastaria, Pizza Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

Polish Delicatessen:
White Eagle Deli, Glendale Heights, IL

Seafood:
Red Lobster, Seafood Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL

Steak:
Jameson’s Charhouse, Steak House, Bloomingdale, IL
Texas Roadhouse, Steak House, Bloomingdale, IL
Outback Steakhouse, Steak House, Bloomingdale, IL

Steak and Seafood:
Ki’s Steak and Seafood, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL

Sushi:
Lili Sushi and Ramen Sushi, Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Honkaka Sushi, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Monsun Sushi, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
Shiki Buffet, Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL (Opens soon)

Thai:
CK Pad Thai, Thai Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

Vietnamese:
PhoLicious, Vietnamese Restaurant, Bloomingdale, IL

Where to go for a Chicago Style Hot Dog:
Portillo’s
I guess I must disclose that I own one share of Portillo’s stock

Where to go for a Chicago Style Pizza:
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, (Curbsize Pickup or Delivery), Carol Stream IL
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, (Dine-in or Curbsize Pickup), Schaumburg, IL
Giordano’s Limited, Bloomingdale, IL
Nancy’s Pizzeria, Stuffed Deep Dish, Roselle, IL
Maciano’s Pizza and Pastaria, Pizza Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL
Rosati’s Pizza, Pizza Restaurant, Carol Stream, IL

Where can I go for gluten-free pizza:
Domino’s Pizza, Carol Stream, IL
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Schaumburg, IL
Pizzeria Uno, Schiller Park, IL

Where can I go for live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Night:
Schnitzel Platz, German Restaurant, Glendale Heights, IL
(https://schnitzelplatz.com/events)
Brauer House, American Restaurant, Lombard, IL
(https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brauer-house-amp-bhouse-live-18059974031)
Google Map Search: live music near Carol Stream, IL

What are the 27 Best Restaurants for Keto Diet Followers:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/ketogenic-diet/best-restaurants-keto-diet-followers/

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CoCoFEST! Chicago Area Attractions and Thing To Do

Posted on | by John Mark Mobley

Archades:

Dave & Buster’s in Lombard

Enterrium in Schaumburg

Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield

Underground Retrocade in West Dundee

Things to do:

Mastermind Escape Games Escape Rooms Schaumburg, IL

Disco, Night Club, Chicago, IL

American Science and Surplus, Geneva/West Chicago, IL

American Science and Surplus, Park Ridge, IL

Chester Electronic Supply Co., Kenosha, WI

Micro Center Computers & Electronics, Westmont, IL

Hobby Lobby, Bloomingdale, IL

Alien Entertainment Store, Lombard, IL

Adler Planetarium, Chicago, IL

Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL

Chinatown, Chicago, IL

Chicago Segway Tour, Chicago, IL

Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL

Illinois Railway Museum, Union, IL

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, Chicago, IL

North Riverside Park Mall, Riverside, IL

Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard, IL

Leaning Tower YMCA, Niles, IL

     (half-size replica of the Tower of Pisa)

Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, IL

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Schaumburg, IL

Museum of Broadcast Communications, Chicago, IL

The Oriental Institute, Chicago, IL

     (museum about ancient Middle Eastern cultures)

Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, IL

Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL

Twin Lakes Golf Course & Recreation Area, Palatine, IL

     (Golf and paddleboats)

Frank Lloyd Wright Tours, Oak Park, IL

Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL

Geneva 3rd Street and State Street, Geneva, IL

     (Antiquing and shopping)

Long Grove, Long Grove, IL

     (Antiquing and shopping)

The House on the Rock, Spring Green, Wisconsin

Galena, IL

     (Antiquing and shopping)

Ulysses S. Grant Home, Galena, IL

Chicago Theater, Broadway Shows, Chicago, IL

Busse Forest Elk Pasture, Elk Grove Village, IL

The Sculpture Park, Schaumburg, IL

LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Schaumburg, IL

K1Speed Indoor Go Karts, Buffalo Grove, IL

Cosley Zoo, Wheaton, IL

Forest Preserve/Nature Preserve, Cook County, IL

Wendella Tours and Cruises, Chicago, IL

     (Chicago River Tours)

Chicago River Tour

Casino/Gambling

Historic Route 66 Begin Sign, Chicago, IL

Mass Transit Chicago:

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co, Chicago IL

Big Bus Tours Chicago, Chicago IL

Gangster Tour Chicago

Chicago Tour

Chicago Transit Authority – CTA Buses and Train Service

Metra train

South Shore Line train

Airports:

O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Chicago Executive Airport-PWK

Schaumburg Regional Airport

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Religion:

Billy Graham Museum, Wheaton, IL

Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL

Bahai House of Worship, Wilmette, IL

     (I hear it is very beautiful to look at)

Ark Encounter, Willamstown, KY

Creation Museum, Petersburg, KY

Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, Chicago, IL

The Oriental Institute, Chicago, IL

     (A museum about ancient Middle Eastern cultures)

Holocaust Museum, Skokie, IL

Sporting Events:

Chicago Sky

Chicago Cubs

Chicago Bulls

Chicago Blackhawks

Chicago Fire

Chicago White Sox

Chicago Bears

Chicago Curling Club

Chicago Park District Badminton

Chicago Boxing Events

Windy City Rollers (Roller Derby)

Roller Rink

Ice Skating

Golf

Frisbee Golf

Miniature Golf

Bowling

Shuffleboard

Carol Stream Park District Adult Pickleball

Climbing

Paddle Boat

Chicago Landmarks:

875 North Michigan Ave. (formerly known as the John Hancock Building)

Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower)

Cloudgate sculpture, Millennium Park, Chicago (known as “the Bean”)

Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Chicago

Chicago lakefront, Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Navy Pier, Chicago, IL

     (Amusement rides, boat rides, IMAX Theater, restaurants and ship cruises)

Gardens

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL

Lincoln Park Conservatory, Chicago, IL

Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden, Geneva, IL

Lilacia Park, Lombard, IL

Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL

Notes:

American Science and Surplus

Salvador Garcia says: Yes, you can go to the Website and browse, but it does not prepare you for when you go in person. There is a huge number of stuff, everything from a periscope (Geneva store), beakers, test tube and more for your chem lab, motors, gearmotors, LEDs, electronic components, foam human hearts, stuffed plushy brain neurons, real frogs for dissection, bearings, magnets, DaVinci machines kits… well, the list just goes on and on.

Alien Entertainment Store

Salvador Garcia says:  And if there are any sci fi fans (Dr. Who, Star Wars, Star Trek) then Alien Entertainment in Lombard has enough stuff to keep you busy for about two hours.

If you are coming to the CoCoFEST! from out of town on an extended stay, you may be interested in other things to see while you are here. The ladies may enjoy a trip to the mall or antiquing and shopping in Long Grove, IL or Geneva, IL.

Chicago Chinatown

North Riverside Park Mall

Salvador Garcia says:  And if there are any die-hard fans of the movie Contagion, I can point you to the mall where the mall scenes were filmed 🙂

Navy Pier

(Amusement rides, boat rides, IMAX Theater, restaurants and ship cruises)

Frank Lloyd Wright Tours

Salvador Garcia says:  If anyone is into architecture, Oak Park was home to the internationally renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

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