Dos and dont’s: using binoculars in your condominium

I have heard from many of our fellow New Eastsiders that, in fact, one of their first purchases as condo owners was a good strong pair of binoculars.

Additionally, more than a few have mentioned that the item was among the very first housewarming gifts people gave to them.

Some even have telescopes pointing out their windows.  Do you really believe them when they say it’s just for looking out at the stars?

DO

• Get a strong pair. The higher up the stronger needed.
• Take in the sights that the New Eastside has to offer, like the Chicago River
• Use the binoculars to spot boats and other craft on our beautiful lakefront
• Look up at the sky and catch the moon, the stars, and of course the fireworks show.
• Use the binoculars to spot suspicious activity (be the friendly neighborhood watch person)

DON’T

• Stare out the window with them when you have company over
• Focus on the only lighted window across the river (you know, that guy)
• Stare directly down on the beachfront for “interesting persons“
• Look into nighttime windows for other kinds of fireworks
• Stare into any of the rooftop pools (Not the kind of “friendly neighborhood watch“ we’re talking about)

— Jon Cohn, Community Contributor