Welcome SKuyken! We lived in Chicago for 29 years (actually, my husband did all of his life) until 5 years ago when we moved to Central WI.
I just started brewing in July - we tried the first brew (a Nut Brown Ale) a few days ago and really like it. Tonight we are tasting the Porter and the Cream Ale that we brewed next - and are hoping they're both good, because we have 50 people coming over tomorrow. I'd hate to have to go buy a lot of commercial beer!
Have a red ale and an IPA in process - would have moved them into bottles (red ale) and the secondary fermenter (the IPA) today, except that I really have a lot to do to get ready for this party tomorrow. Next on board is an Oatmeal Stout.
Where in Chicago are you? We lived mostly on the south (East Side for 5 years, Lansing for 11 years, NW Indiana - St. John - for 5 years., I was in Hyde Park and Calumet City for a while too - husband grew up in South Chicago - we did spend three years in Riverside and Elmhurst).
Enjoy this hobby - I can't believe how much I love it.
Slainte,
Susan