Blue Islander Mark Nilsson new co-host for 190 North

by Sandy May

Let me begin by saying, it’s a great show, called 190 North, on Channel 7, Sunday evenings at 10:30. What they do weekly is pinpoint areas of interest in

Chicago and suburbs. Executive producer and host Janet Davies has the formula down pat. Choices highlighted are fun, entertaining, and interesting; but, more than that, many are less well-known spots. Each show makes you want to jump in your car and explore their choices.

For example, on Sunday, May 31st, Homewood was featured - yes, I knew about the famous Mitchell’s Ice Cream Shoppe and Aurelio’s—but did not know, that there is a great homemade sausage deli there - check out their website, please at www.190north.com.

Now, for some Mark highlights. I knew him when…so the saying goes. A graduate of First Lutheran School in Blue Island and then Polaris High School, which was once a division of our District 218, he was always just a great kid. Going on to college, along with DJing, his major field of study was broadcasting.

Previous FORUM articles featured his joining the cast of “Next Action Star,” local productions which included “Female Dogs” directed by Ken Nilsson (yes, his brother), and a host of other plays and appearances from commercials to a role recently in A&E’s “The Beast” with Patrick Swayze.

As an actor, from just this partial listing, you can see how varied his roles have been. But what has always impressed me about Mark is that he just keeps on going. He keeps moving forward, he just doesn’t give up.

One advantage he has had is his remarkable Mom. Seldom have I seen a parent who is so completely supportive and encouraging. Instead of the traditional role-playing some of us parents fall into, like “are you sure you can’t just do something else…” she is just so very proud, non-judgmental and glorying in his accomplishments.

Mark’s effervescent personality is well-suited to co-hosting 190 North. Like when he said to me… ”this is so great, like every day is a field trip.” Watch the show.

Good Job, Mark. We’re really proud of you.