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At Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, we are committed to helping each cancer patient blossom into a survivor. Our multidisciplinary teams provide individualized treatment through state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and clinical expertise. Find an Advocate physician at 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622) or visit advocatehealth.com/luth
intro fashion beauty dining home recreation & fitness entertainment kids
2012 Everyone needs a friend that’s “in the know.” She’s the gal who will tell you where to get a dress hemmed, an entertainer for your kid’s birthday party or the sweatiest workout. Consider us that friend.
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When our readers filled out the second annual “Best of” survey this year, they shared where their kids learned to swim, moisturizers that they can’t live without, the most delicious pizza and favorite Chicago and North Shore museums. We love the anecdotes, testimonials about great service and passion that people shared with us. It’s that passion that gives us hope our neighborhood businesses continue to be vibrant parts of our communities. When hundreds of our readers care enough to tell us about products they love, and local stores that provide the best service, it’s a good sign that people want their hometown favorites to succeed. And, we’re more than happy to share the information. Here are our reader’s picks for the Best of 2012 in fashion, beauty, dining, entertainment, home, fitness and kids.
p h o t o s b y n at h a n i e l p e r r y
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BEST
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fashion B y e va n g e l i n e p o l i t i s
Reed Krakoff handbag, $1,090, Neiman Marcus Best “When you have to ask, you can’t afford it” accessory: Designer Bag
When splurging is the objective, our readers whole-heartedly picked a designer bag as their lux item of choice. From a petite Alexander McQueen clutch to the oh-so coveted Hermes Birkin bag, nothing compares to the feeling of sporting one of these bags.
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Best Accessory on a Budget: Scarf
Versatility is the key to purchasing a budget-conscious accessory and what could be more multipurpose than a scarf? It can serve as a pop of color when wearing a solid knit top or as a snuggly wrap on a cool night. And then there are the dozen different ways to tie it— you certainly can’t do that with a pair of earrings.
Erika Konury Hand Painted Silk Scarf, $88, Avenue Fashions
Best Tailor/Dressmaker: Chris Kondos Couturier
Wilmette resident Chris Kondos has been creating custom evening and wedding gowns from her Linden Avenue boutique for decades. Conveniently located just steps from the El station, our readers picked this couturier as their chosen expert when it comes to both alterations and custom clothing designs. 407 Linden Ave., Wilmette , 847-256-0107
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10% Best Store to Shop at for a Special Occasion: Neiman Marcus
Readers also had several other favorites stores:
10%
CUSP
Saks
10%
31%
Neiman Marcus
Oui Madame
15%
The Lake Forest Shop
24%
Nordstrom
Best Fashion Trend You’ve Embraced this Last Year: color blocking
Our readers have fully embraced this summer’s obsession with bright colors. Pairing a juicy orange skirt with a hot magenta top is sure to brighten your attitude even on the dreariest of days.
Parker two-tone dress $242, Neiman Marcus
best personal shopper
Our readers recognized two local ladies as their go-to style mavens.
Best Online Deal Website: Rue La La
Diane Von Furstenberg, Stella McCartney, YSL, Lilly Pulitzer—you name the designer and Rue La La has it. They offer private sales in clothing for women, men, and kids; home goods; and travel. Once you’ve signed up, you can check out their newest sales everyday at 10 a.m. CST. ruelala.com 12
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Chicago: Julie Watson
Julie Watson and her team are devoted not only to helping you build a wardrobe that suits you, but also to making sure you’re having fun in the process. She will identify your “shopping personality,” purge your closet of the unflattering and the ugly, and shop alongside you (or for you) to fill any gaps in your wardrobe. 900 North Michigan Avenue, 5th Fl., Chicago, juliewatson style.com North Shore: Rachel Hershinow
For fashion advice, our readers also flock to Rachel Hershinow, owner of Stella in Evanston. Her store’s eclectic collection of clothing and accessories and her fun sense of style is a knockout combo for fashion excellence. 2116 Central St. Evanston, stellaevanston.com
Best Local Etsy Store: Stacy Bankier Design
After Stacy Bankier designed and made a necklace for her sister’s 40th birthday, she couldn’t stop. Soon this Deerfield mom’s Etsy site was up and running. Diamond pavé charms hang from delicate beaded chains—her pieces are the perfect gift to celebrate a loved one’s special day. etsy.com/shop/ stacybankier
Best Store for Workout Clothes and Gear: Lululemon
Originally known as “the” place for yoga gear, Lululemon can now dress you for almost any activity ranging from swimming to running. Founded in Canada less than 15 years ago, the retailer has since spread all over the continent—with eight stores in the Chicagoland area alone. 1622 Sherman Ave., Evanston; 2176 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, lululemon.com
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beauty
BEST
2012
By L aur a Hine
37% facial moisturizers 2% nail polish
best beauty products you can’t live without
5% misc.
8% facial cleansers 8% hair products 14
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12% hand/body moisturizers or cleansers
29% make-up
Botox
best anti-aging strategy
The women of the North Shore fall into three distinct camps when it comes to trying to not look their age, with very little crossover. A gentle reminder—if you’re committed to a smile and great attitude as your aging strategy, you might also remember the sunscreen. And if you’re sure a Botox injection is the answer, don’t forget that attitude is more important than age. best plastic surgeon: Dr. Michael Byun
Another split vote between “Don’t do it,” and “No one,” to women who were quite committed to their doctors. Dr. Michael Byun, who practices in Northbrook, received the most reader votes. 1775 Walters Ave., Northbrook, 847-513-6899, chicagocosmeticsurgery.com
By blocking nerve impulses and stopping muscle contraction—which is what causes the frown-like line between your eyebrows—Botox causes the wrinkle to relax and soften. Great in small doses, but let’s avoid the frozen face look. Smile and Great Attitude
A positive spirit, lots of water and clean living were the kinds of answers given by a lot of readers. We love the reminder that friends and sleep are great anti-aging tools, too. Topical Treatments
From Retinol creams to Oil of Olay sunscreen, we got lots of responses. The most popular: Kiehls and Arbonne anti-aging creams. But remember, those night creams only work if you’re also using a sunscreen during the day!
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best beauty service you can’t live without: Mani/Pedi
Mani/pedis rule with our readers. If you’re giving up something, it’s not your nails. As far as which nail salons were most popular, it seems most women choose somewhere nearby. We had nominees from Lake Forest to Libertyville, Evanston to Barrington! Interestingly, haircuts, highlights and blow-outs received very few votes. We’re guessing because hair care is considered a necessity, not a luxury. the most popular products
Kiehl’s Arbonne Boots No. 7 Moroccanoil MAC Pro Midnight Revelage Exceptional Treatment Longwear Recovery Intensive Definition Light Lipcolour Concentrate Nighttime Mascara Brightening Serum 16
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dining
BEST
2012
By Julie Chernoff
best pie… pizza, that is
In its most basic form, just dough, sauce and cheese, but it inspired more entries than any other category. We are serious about our ‘za! best classic pizza : Lou Malnati’s
Both the Chicago-style deep dish and thin-crust pizzas were cited as yummy. loumalnatis. com (Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Zurich, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Lincolnwood, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Wilmette) best gourmet pizza Union Pizzeria
It’s the wood-burning oven that seals the deal. Don’t miss the Lamb Sausage. 1245 Chicago
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Ave., Evanston, 847-475-2400, unionevanston.com best take-out pizza Homemade Pizza Company
It’s always better when you bake it at home… with a little help! homemadepizza.com (Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Lake Forest, Winnetka)
Edzo’s
best tricked-out burger Edzo’s Burger Shop
Another popular category, but Edzo’s proved the little engine that could. Once you’ve had one of Eddie Laken’s griddled beauties (with a side of truffle fries and a Nutella milkshake), you will truly understand. 1571 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847-864-3396, edzos.com
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best local chain Tom & Eddie’s
best national chain Five Guys
tomandeddies.com (Deerfield, Vernon Hills)
fiveguys.com (Evanston, Deer Park, Glenview, Park Ridge, Wilmette)
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Heavenly Hearth
BEST BREAD: HEAVENLY HEARTH
The place for our daily bread. Their consistency is amazing… I’ve never had a bum loaf. Artisan bread baking at its finest. Apparently you all agree! 1101 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-8530200 BEST DINING DESTINATION EVANSTON
With a ridiculous number of new restaurants this year (Taco Diablo, Hota, Terra, Creperie St. Germain, Todoroki, Austin’s Tacos, Soulwich… you get the idea) and a plethora of old favorites, Evanston was your choice for where to dine.
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BEST BARISTAS
We denizens of the Northern Suburbs care about our caffeine. And we really appreciate the people who make it happen—the ones who anticipate our order and know us by name, not to mention pull a mean macchiato. Here are some of your favorites: DANIEL at Linz & Vail 2012 Central St., Evanston LAURA at Plaza del Lago Starbucks 1515 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette JAKE at Dempster/Chicago Ave. Starbucks 528 Dempster St., Evanston MALLORY at Peet’s 1622 Chicago Ave., Evanston
restaurants singled out for their great cocktails Depot Nuevo 1139 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette Libertad 7931 Lincoln Ave., Skokie Trifecta Grill 501 Chestnut St., Winnetka
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The Classic Margarita at Depot Nuevo
best giftable chocolate: Belgian Chocolatier Piron
The Piron brothers (Bob and Fred) start with the highest quality Belgian chocolate and the freshest ingredients. The best part? It’s all handmade, on premise. Hand-dipped dried fruits, delicate truffles, nutty barks… they’ve got it all. 509 Main St. #A, Evanston, 847-864-5504, belgchocpiron.com
best wine store
Remember what I said about vodka? Ditto for wine. Luckily, the North Shore has a bunch of great stores with a real depth of wine knowledge. your favorites for service and selection: Good Grapes 685 Vernon Ave., Glencoe Schaefer’s 9965 Gross Point Rd., Skokie Vinic 1509 Chicago Ave., Evanston
favorite cocktails: Vodka Martinis
With or without froufrou additions, you like vodka. You really, really do. In Lemon Drops or with tonic, Grey Goose or Ketel One, you like them all.
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Winnetka Wine Shop 726 Elm St., Winnetka
BEST
2012
home By kristina tober
best place to buy a tchotchke Something Old: Village Treasure House
With an ever-changing collection of vintage and upscale furnishings and accessories, Village Treasure House lives up to its name. More than just a consignment shop, it’s a local not-for-profit gem, supporting 15 local agencies with over $1 million in grants since 1998. 1460 Paddock Dr., Northbrook, 847-832-1030, villagetreasurehouse.org Something New: Peachtree Place
Nominated by readers for a second year in a row, there’s no doubt owner Lucy Callahan has perfected her trade.
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With a vast and dynamic array of tabletop, decorative accessories, linens and gifts, you’re always sure to find that perfect something to dress the table or top the mantle. 303 S. Happ Rd., Northfield, 847-249-2626, peachtreeplaceonline.com New kid on the block: Gifted
Opened by local mom and artist Megan Stockton, Gifted offers an array of products for every age and price range. And if it can be done, they will find a way to customize the product for that special touch. 840 S. Waukegan Rd., #111, Lake Forest, 847-2352573, giftedlakeforest.com
best emergency services
We’ve all been there. Leaking pipes, electrical shorts, busted doors and spilled red wine. Getting the best help right away can make all the difference. Running water: Bishop Plumbing
Since 1921, Bishop Plumbing has made more than 75,000 service calls—everything from leaking toilets to sewer backups to sump pumps and renovations—often in the middle of the night or height of a storm. bishopplumbing.com
Carpet spills: Kashian Brothers
For 100 years, Kashian Brothers has been selling and servicing fine flooring products—not a small achievement on the North Shore. Whether it’s carpet clean-up after the big party or mending divots in your wood floors, Kashian is on our readers’ speed dial. kashianbros.com
Electrical short: Deerfield Electric
Readers and builders alike on the North Shore turn to Deerfield Electric, knowing that for 50 plus years, this family-owned business has “the systems, knowledge, experience and manpower to make it work right now.” deerfield-electric.com
Handyman repairs: Mensch with a Wrench
We were tempted to give him the title just because of the name. But some of our readers swear by Mensch with a Wrench as the right guy to call for any small job your husband really shouldn’t do. menschwrenchchicago.com
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best of “made in america”
When it comes to finding the best American-made furniture and home accessories, we didn’t have to look much further than two local reader hot spots:
Heirloom Quality: Sawbridge Studios
Sound Investment: Room & Board
Representing some of the finest independent craftsmen and artists in the U.S., Sawbridge Studios offers one-of-a-kind handmade furniture and accessories. While customers can order a piece as displayed in the store, the staff welcomes the opportunity to alter or custom-design pieces to meet a client’s specific needs. 1015 Tower Ct., Winnetka, 847-441-2441, sawbridge.com
With its collection of classic contemporary furnishings, Room and Board is the readers’ choice for quality Americanmade furniture at approachable prices. Over 90 percent of their collection is made in the U.S., with upholsterers, metalworkers and woodworkers from across our great nation. 10071 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, 847-6732655, roomandboard.com
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best antique store(s):
It’s a tie! Whether it’s the sheer number of antiques dealers (over 70) and expansive showroom (over 7,000 square feet) offered at Heritage Trail, or the beautifully time-worn and repurposed furniture and accessories at Vintage Nest, readers know these vendors offer just the treasure they’re looking for. Vintage Nest
1891 Tower Dr., Glenview, 847-834-0287, vintagenestonline.com Heritage Trail Mall
410 Ridge Rd., Wilmette, 847-256-6208, heritagetrailmall.com
Online Design Resources
designsponge.com onekingslane.com houzz.com
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best decorating resource
Eclectic Design Source Mother-daughter team Margaret and Mary Rosemeyer have put fun back into interior design. With a new retail store in Libertyville and a full-service design firm waiting in the wings, Eclectic Design Source is the best-kept design resource our readers couldn’t help but share. 518 Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 224-513-5413, electicds.com runner-up
John Plunkett Design While their retail home furnishings store is closed, Plunkett’s design expertise and industry know-how endures under a new business model. Readers swear by interior designers John and Valerie Plunkett's ability to bring together high quality and affordability. 1490 RFD, Long Grove, 847-710-7775, johnplunkettdesign.com
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best
floral designers
Our survey showed that readers are very loyal to their neighborhood floral shop. Here are just a few of their favorites. Evanston
Lake Bluff
Flowers Flowers 1110 Davis St., Evanston, 847-328-7110, flowers-flowers.com
Twigs 38 E. Center Ave., Lake Bluff, 847-234-8944, twigsflowershop.com
Winnekta
Northbrook
Prufrock 718 Elm St., Winnetka, Edwards 1353 Shermer Rd., 847-784-3400 Northbrook, 847-272-4344, edwardsflorist.com Lake Forest
Lake Forest Flowers 546 Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847234-0017, lakeforestflowers.com Libertyville
Buss Flowers 332 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 847-968-2877, bussflowershop.net
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recreation 2012 fitness BEST
By christ y coughlin
as you race to a best time, or walk at your own pace and enjoy family and friends. Stay for the post-race party with music, food and activities for the kids. June, Evanston runner-up: Bike the Drive
best family race/event: Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate
Choose the 5k, 10k, walk or youth mile on this Father’s Day race. In its 13th year, this event honors Ricky Byrdsong and proceeds benefit the YWCA Evanston North Shore. Enjoy the scenic Evanston lakefront
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There’s nothing like biking on Lake Shore Drive with 20,000 other enthusiasts early on a beautiful, spring morning. Bring the entire family for this noncompetitive ride and enjoy breathtaking views of the city buildings, lake and parks. Refreshments, repairs and music line the route. The traditional pancake breakfast is a great way to finish out this awesome event. Memorial Day Weekend, Chicago
best day hike: Chicago Botanic Garden
The meticulously maintained Chicago Botanic Garden offers amazing walks under towering trees, through fields of vibrant flowers and alongside expertly trimmed Bonsai. Take the long way around the perimeter of the gardens, hug the shoreline of the various lakes, hike McDonald Woods, or explore the Dwarf Conifer or English Walled Gardens. Open 8 a.m. until sunset. $20 per car. Membership includes parking. 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-8355440, chicagobotanic.org
runner-up: Kettle Moraine State Park
This huge park stretches from southern Wisconsin to north of Sheboygan. The hilly, glacierformed area is filled with ponds and lakes called kettles. Try John Muir Woods, which can be reached from Chicago in about 90 minutes. You’ll feel like you are really “out” without having to travel very far. Plan this outing using the detailed maps provided by the Wisconsin State Park System. Small user fees to park.
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best spin class: Spin Bootcamp at Revolution Spin
This popular spin studio offers challenging workouts for all levels and encourages first timers to try indoor cycling. If you’re ready to push to the limit, try Spin Bootcamp, a 90-minute class that incorporates intervals, weight lifting, body weight plyometrics, intense core work and running. Readers swear by this class for a kick butt workout that gets you super fit. 904 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847-440-4262, revolutionspinning.com
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best challenge workout: Dailey Method
The Dailey Method combines ballet, core conditioning, muscle strengthening, yoga, and orthopedic exercises. This super challenging 60-minute class strengthens, tones and lengthens the entire body. Each set of exercises is followed by a series of active stretches to develop more sculpted and supple muscles. Dailey Method devotees swear by this tough class. 410 Green Bay Rd., Kenilworth, 847920-5260, thedaileymethod.com
best place to swim: Centennial Family Aquatic Center
Beat the heat this summer at Centennial. With four separate outdoor pools, two huge slides, kiddy slides, high and low dives, and several water features, there is something for everyone. This newer facility has clean, well-maintained locker rooms, family dressing rooms, concessions, and space for party rentals. The early morning adult lap swim is like a little slice of heaven with the pink sky and soaring birds overhead. Become a member or pay $8 resident, $14.50 non-resident. 2300 Old Glenview Rd., Wilmette, 847-2569680, wilmettepark.org
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runner-up: Lake Michigan
The lake promises to be warmer than usual this summer given the moderate winter. Take advantage of the numerous white sand beaches from Evanston to Lake Bluff. There is nothing like swimming in open water without lane lines, chlorine or crowds.
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best place for kids to swim: Big Blue Swim School
The new Big Blue facility in Edens Plaza was designed for kids, featuring a shallow depth and warm water. Founded by national level swimmers, Big Blue has a proven teaching method and small class sizes.
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Parents can watch their kid’s progress through big glass windows while siblings play in the kid-friendly viewing area. Big Blue has camps, swim team and birthday party options. 3232 Lake Ave., Suite 350, Wilmette, 847-729-7665, bigblueswim school.com
EXPERIENCE THE
art play OF
Fall classes for youths and adults now available.
SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW STUDENTS Mention this ad and receive $50 off your fall class.
Visit our website for more info
BEST
2012
entertainment b y k e l ly k o n r a d
best north shore music venue: Ravinia mark your calendars: In a very close vote, Highland
Park’s outdoor venue barely edged out Evanston’s SPACE for tops in 2012. Why we like it: Ravinia is a summer tradition and a place where you can just be—whether it’s by candlelight or Coors. 200 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park, 847-266-5000, ravinia.org
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With more than a month of outdoor concerts left on the schedule this year, there’s still time to dust off the lawn chairs and pack a picnic.
best chicago museum: The Art Institute of Chicago
best north shore museum Kohl Children’s Museum
Dolores Kohl’s vision of enhancing children’s learning with hands-on fun has won the hearts and minds of many parents on the North Shore, and is one of the nation’s best children’s museums. Why we love it: Kids learn without feeling like they’re being taught—and isn’t that the best way? 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org
Founded almost 125 years ago, The Art Institute is a favorite of not just Chicagoans, but art lovers from around the world. Why we love it: It’s so accessible—from family gallery walks to student classes, there’s no limit to the ways you can immerse yourself. 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600, artic.edu mark your calendars:
Don’t miss Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective—it closes September 3.
up and comer Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
runner-up: Museum of Science and Industry
3001 Central St, Evanston, 847475-1030, mitchellmuseum.org
57 St. and Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, 773- 684-1414, msichicago.org
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best community theater Writers’ Theatre
In a close vote, Glencoe’s theatrical powerhouse edged the also beloved Wilmette Theatre’s innovative programming for the Best of 2012. Known for its top-notch performances, the theater is no stranger to national accolades and recently announced plans for a new space in downtown Glencoe. Why we love it: Artistic Director Michael Halberstam delivers. Period. 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, 847242-6000, writerstheatre.org mark your calendars:
The 2012-13 is a gangbuster, with shows including “Hamlet” and “Sweet Charity.” best girlfriend getaway Sundara Inn and Spa
We know, we thought the same thing—The DELLS? Come on, now—that’s kids’ Vegas. But take one look at the breathtaking grounds of this inn and
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spa, and you’ll be sending your husband and the kids on their way while you sit back and relax the weekend away at this very popular destination. Think infinity pool, one-on-one yoga, exquisite dining and the best in outdoor recreation. 920 Canyon Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI, 888735-8181, sundaraspa.com mark your calendars
Three words come to mind: Fall. Color. Tour. Book a room now! best place to go on a rainy day Northbrook Court
A perfect place to wile away a few rainy hours, Northbrook Court has some of the finest shopping on the North Shore. And with great places to catch a bite to eat and a hoppin’ movie theater, you’ll certainly be entertained. 2171 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, northbrookcourt.com
best comedy venue Second City
This wasn’t even a contest, and it should come as no surprise— Chicago’s premier comedy club is Numero Uno when it comes to the best in comedy. Why we love it: It’s always funny, making it a go-to spot for those times you are entertaining out-of-town guests. 1616 N. Wells St., Chicago, 312-3373992, secondcity.com
mark your calendars:
Don’t miss Second City’s “100th Revue: Who Do We Think We Are?”
up and comer Laughing Chameleon
1830 Tower Dr., Glenview, 888-6852844, thelaughingchameleon.com
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BEST
2012
kids By beth engelman
best library story hour: Evanston Public Library, Main Branch
Our readers love EPL’s story time programs which include several different classes, drop in times and events. Perfect for children birth through age 6, EPL’s programs are dedicated to inspiring a lifetime love of reading. 1703 Orrington Ave., Evanston, 847-448-8600, epl.org
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runner-up: Glenview Public Library
Stories come alive with puppets, props, and more during GPL’s weekly story time sessions. The library boasts additional storytelling programs throughout the year, including a storybook walk through Little Bear Park. 1930 Glenview Rd., Glenview, 847-729-7500, glenviewpl.org
best camps
Whether it’s day camp or overnight, we have the scoop on the best camps around. day camp winner: Summer Stuff Day Camps
Located in Wilmette and Evanston, Summer Stuff Day Camp programs accommodate children ages 2 through 8. Their developmentally rich activities and games encourage children to explore, discover and learn while having tons of fun! 404 Linden Ave., Wilmette, 773-981-3442, ssdaycamps.com runner-up: Camp CBG
Located in one of the area’s most beautiful settings, Camp CBG invites campers to explore the gardens while they learn about science, art, ecology and more. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440, chicagobotanic.org/camp/summercamp best overnight camp: Camp Echo
Traditional summer camp for boys and girls including canoeing, sailing, archery and more. Dedicated to teaching kids to be independent while also learning how to work cooperatively as part of a group. 3782 S. Triangle Tr., Fremont, Michigan, 231-924-0829, mcgawymca. org/campecho
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birthday party entertainers who take the cake (3-way tie)
new this year: Mr. Singer
repeat winner: repeat winner: Randy Bernstein Nili Yelin
If your kids like to rock, call Mr. Singer. The entertainer and his trusty guitar put on a fun-filled, interactive performance with song, dance and plenty of instruments for everyone. sharpcookies.net
With a tap of the wand and a few magic words, Randy Bernstein can turn a birthday party into a magical experience your kids will adore. magicbyrandy.com
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Books come alive with Nili Yelin, a.k.a. the Storybook Mom, who turns ordinary stories into real life adventures. thestorybookmom.com
best spot for a birthday party
From 360 degrees of trampoline fun to a spa party that comes to your house, we have the 411 on birthday party fun. Growth Spurts (reader pick )
Blast Zone (editor’s pick)
Ages Birth–6. Large indoor playspace with designated areas for imaginative play, art projects and more. 404 Linden Ave, Wilmette, 847-850-9059, agrowthspurt.com
Ages 4–12 Dedicated to being a videofree fun zone. Features foam pits, life-size mazes and yes, even bathtub racing.5 Lakeview Pkwy., Vernon Hills, 847-9960100, theblastzone.com
Sky High Sports (editor’s pick)
Have a Bashery (editor’s pick)
Perfect for kids of all ages, especially the hard-to-please teens. Trampoline sports center with private party options and activities. 6424 Howard St., Niles, 847-801-5867, nil.jumpskyhigh.com
Ages 3–13 Choose your own at-home party adventure, which could include a mobile spa, mystery hunt or “Survivor”-style games. 847-579-9019, haveabashery.com
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Best Outdoor Place Spaces and Parks We climbed, slid and zipped our way through more parks than we can count. We’ve lost sand toys, sandals and sometimes even our sanity. But nothing beats the smile on our kids’ faces when they climb across the monkey bars for the first time or make it down the winding slide. No doubt about it, we love our outdoor place spaces and the Chicago suburbs are filled with extraordinary parks that are often under-utilized. Liza Sullivan, educational consultant and founder of throughplay.com, agrees. Sullivan and her toddler helped us compile this list after they visited and played in over 60 parks in the Chicago area.
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Best Park for Playing “Hide and Seek�: Penny Park
Best Park on a Hot Day: Little Bear Garden Park
Features all-wood play-structures including a large castle, life-sized vehicles, balance beam, monkey bars, swings, and stage. Lake and Ashland Streets, Evanston Best Park to Meet up with Friends Friends Park
The park is walking distance to downtown Glencoe which has numerous kid-friendly lunch spots. Features play equipment designed for social interaction (multiple children can participate in an activity at one time). The entire surface is made sand, making the park one expansive sandbox. Tudor Court and Vernon Avenue, Glencoe
Features an interactive water fountain, maze, large sand area, planting garden and fairytale themed play area. One point of entry, plenty of hanging swings and multiple shaded spots give parents a chance to relax while they to watch their children play. 2400 Chestnut Avenue, Glenview Best Park for Getting Away from it all without Getting Away Keay Nature Center
A tranquil and serene environment allows families the opportunity to slow down, walk together, watch dragonflies, catch minnows, sit by the waterfall and enjoy nature. Hibbard Road and Skokie Boulevard, Wilmette
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beyond excellent care... A bington of G lenview
Skilled Nursing
R ehabilitation Requiring high-level medi- Ther apy cal care. Medicare certified, insurance accepted. Elegant decor, delicious and nutritious meals, engaging activities, and personal attention in a community of friends.
M emory Support (A lzheimer’s) A place of comfort, a place that’s secure and familiar.
Regain functions lost because of surgery, illness or accident. One-to-one therapy programs, includes skilled therapists, state of the art facilities, and proven treatment protocols.
R espite C are
Hospice C are Comfort, kindness, and personalized pain management for people needing special care.
O utpatient P hysical Ther apy Customized programs aimed at achieving outstanding outcomes.
At home care givers need time off whether for days or weeks.
3901 Glenview Road, Glenview, Illinois 847-729-0000 • theabington.com JCAHO ACCREDITED