Journalist Cody LaGrow shows Val Warner Lakeview on latest Chicago 'Neighborhood Walk'

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The vibrant energy of Pride Month culminates this Sunday with Chicago's iconic Pride Parade, kicking off in the heart of Lakeview.

This neighborhood is the second-largest Chicago community by population, with over 103,000 residents, according to the most recent U.S. Census statistics. It also stands proudly as one of the most welcoming areas for the LGBTQ+ community in the Midwest.

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In her most recent edition of "Our Chicago: Neighborhood Walk," ABC7 Chicago's Val Warner embarked on a journey through Lakeview, guided by a familiar and celebrated face: Emmy and GLAAD award-winning journalist Cody LaGrow, a frequent contributor on ABC7's "Windy City Live."

Their first stop, chosen with LaGrow's signature flair, was Salon Lofts at 2860 N. Broadway, home to Adryan the Barber.

"We're thrilled to have you," LaGrow said. "But the first thing is you can't come to Lakeview looking busted. So we need to go get the best 'fade' on Broadway. We're going to go see my guy, Adryan the Barber."

While he got his haircut, Warner talked to LaGrow about Lakeview.

"Cody, you have been here in Lakeview a number of different times, moved away, come back and you keep finding yourself here in this neighborhood," Warner said. "Tell me why."

LaGrow's response reveals the soul of Lakeview for many: "To me, Lakeview East is that place that just proves to all the critics we can do it. You know, we can go to church. We can open up our own businesses. We can support our friends who are doing these things. You could just be you totally."

"You can be free. What does that mean to you?" Warner asked.

LaGrow reflected on his personal journey, contrasting his present with his past.

"Well, it's the opposite of what it was like growing up in rural Missouri. It's knowing when you go into any space, you feel different. You kind of feel that eyes are on you. And in Lakeview East, baby, I am very conservative here," he said.

Their walk led them to Broadway United Methodist Church at 3338 N. Broadway, a place deeply cherished by LaGrow and the community.

"I walk by this every day, and I think a lot of gay people in the Midwest who come to Chicago are looking for maybe something different, and they see that this church is welcoming of people like me" LaGrow said. "It's healing in a way, Val. It makes me think that the future does not include the childhood I had."

Their stroll continued down Broadway to CRAM Fashion, a men's boutique at 3331 N. Broadway that has been a Lakeview staple for 16 years.

LaGrow, ever the comedian, held up a pair of sheer, extremely short-shorts: "For the record, I did ask to wear these for our 'Neighborhood Walk' today and was denied."

Warner, quick with a comeback, suggested, "I suggest you wear that for your Pride Parade coverage."

No tour of Lakeview would be complete without paying homage to its most iconic landmark - Wrigley Field. LaGrow brought his dog with him for that part of the tour.

To cap off their adventure, Warner and LaGrow satisfied their sweet cravings at a local bakery that perfectly embodies the spirit of the neighborhood: Chicago Sugar Daddy Patisserie at 3243 N. Broadway.

"There are a few things I love about them, one, their name," LaGrow said. "You know, with that name, they're gay. And, you know, you're about to have a good cupcake. And, they're all about showing up. So even in the community, when the days are tough, they're there."

The duo then indulged in a colorful rainbow cake, tapping their plates together in a playful "cheers."

As their Lakeview journey concluded, Warner extended her gratitude.

"Cody, thank you so much for my neighborhood walk of Lakeview," she said.

LaGrow, ever charming, had one last playful question.

"Thank you, Val, for joining me. Do you feel a little gayer after today?" he said.

"I really appreciate being accepted and fully home and free," she replied.

You can see Val Warner's "Neighborhood Walk" in Lakeview in the above video.