Make It Better - December 2019 by Make It Better

T H E U LT I M AT E L O C A L G I F T G U I D E

DECEMBER 2010

VOLUME 2 , ISSUE 2

family, community and you

the ultimate local gift guide connections for the homeless

MakeItBetter.net

$3.95

warming hearts & hands

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contents volume 2, issue 2

DECEMBER 2010

ON THE COVER

29 Connections for the Homeless

The people who help the homeless find personal, financial and housing stability

33 2010 Gift and Entertainment Guide Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list

34 For the busy crafter

Featuring reader Stacy Simpson

36 For the music lover

Featuring reader Cathy Glickman

42 For the traveling man (or woman) on your list

Featuring reader Jenine Mathias

45 Home for the holidays

Featuring reader Chris Castino

ABOUT OUR COVER CONNECTIONS AND MAKE IT BETTER.NET COVER YOUR CAUSE At the end of our first year, we wanted to donate the cover of our magazine to a charity, but how to choose? We decided to let our readers choose. We put the cover up for auction so readers could bid on behalf of their favorite charity—with the money going to that charity. A group of four donors, active volunteers and board members of Connections for the Homeless—Katy Pendleton, Birch Burghardt, Randy Huyck and Geeta Krishnamurthi—put in the winning bid. Our thanks to them for their contribution to Connections for the Homeless. COV E R P H OTO

(Top) Miracle Ladde (Middle left to right) Eric Dougal, Paul Selden, Jenna Levinson (Bottom left to right) Becky Feiler and Roland Fouche

Photo by John Reilly Photography

DECEMBER 2010

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in every issue 12 14 16 18 22 24 104 117

74 24 gift guide, continued

dining

48 Hostess with the most-est

94 Take that top chef: Sprout is in bloom

Featuring reader Tina Schuler

53 For those who live to eat

contributors fresh founder’s letter you said it tick tock recommended events give time, give support, give things, shop for a cause closing thoughts

Dale Levitski’s new restaurant is a hit with our critic

Featuring reader Steven Scheyer

56 For the green thumb gardener

96 Bites and reader reviews Mini-restaurant reviews

Featuring reader Jeannie Fanning

58 For the techie

Featuring reader Sam Ogborn

60 For the fab fashionista...

Featuring reader Candus Suppelsa

make a difference 100 Kids make it better Our contest winner

102 Warming hearts and hands

69 For the beautiful friend

106 Better makers and their impact

72 For the get out and go crowd

118 Local treasure

Featuring reader Jeannie Edwards

Featuring reader Jolene Moore

74 For the romantic

Featuring reader Amy Weiland

80 For the book lover

Featuring reader Jackie Pilossoph

Yoga bereavement program offers comfort, relief

editorial policy

Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 12 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 1150 Wilmette Ave., Suite J, Wilmette, IL 60091-2642. Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2010 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Featuring reader Kip Kelley

DECEMBER 2010

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TEDDIE KOSSOF We’d like to thank Teddie and the team at Teddie Kossof Salon, Spa & Wellness Center in Northfield for making our cover subjects gorgeous. For the past 35 years, Teddie has made North Shore men and women look their best, while generously giving back to the community. We salute his involvement and his philosophy. Thank you, Teddie!

Pages with this designation are produced in proud partnership with our sponsors.

82 For the one dazzled by the lights of Broadway…

Carrying forward the best of

Teddie Kossof and his son, Alan Kossof

magazine

Application to Mail at Periodicals Rates is pending at Wilmette, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Make It Better, 1150 Wilmette Ave, Suite J, Wilmette, IL 60091-2642. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2010 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

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contributors december 2 0 1 0

Kathryn Achenbach, Chicago Where she grew up in Virginia, her neighbors were like siblings. They made a pact that every odd year, by hook or by crook, all the kids come back for Christmas (spouses invited, too, if everyone collectively approves of ‘em) and the families spend Christmas Eve together.

Val Haller, Winnetka Their annual tradition is the holiday photo card, a huge challenge with four sons. When they’re little they don’t sit; when they’re older they don’t stay.

Dorothy Andries, Deerfield Her most precious Christmas memory was when in eighth grade she was finally old enough to go with her Dad to Midnight Mass at the parish church. They went together for many years, but that first Christmas Eve was a special moment in her life.

Laura Hine, Wilmette Our editor-in-chief loves Christmas Eve. An early church service, a delicious meal and, of course, an all-family viewing of “A Christmas Story.”

Jon Cancelino, Chicago His family’s holiday tradition is to celebrate Christmas with a large dinner on Christmas Eve and have dessert and wine until midnight and talk and share stories from over the years. It’s a really wonderful time to be together.

Marjie Killeen, Wilmette Her family tradition is a Christmas Eve treasure hunt. While her husband hides the clues at home, she drives her kids around Wilmette to check out everyone’s Christmas lights. The little white lights are beautiful, but they love the gaudy, colorful ones best!

Julie Chernoff, Evanston The Chernoff family’s annual Latke and Brisket Festival is a beloved Hanukkah tradition with 30 lbs. of brisket, 300 latkes, lots of cousin Susan’s amazing kugel, and 100 hungry people every year.

Kelly Konrad, Glenview Kelly’s favorite holiday tradition is spending the waning hours of Christmas Eve with her husband in front of the tree, sharing a bottle of wine while wrapping presents, with the TBS marathon of “A Christmas Story” playing in the background. “Fragile! It must be Italian!”

Christy Coughlin, Wilmette Christy and her daughters anticipate creating traditional gingerbread people in December. The baking project takes several days including a messy day of over-decorating. The “good” ones are given away to friends, the rest...

Liz Logan, Chicago Once, Liz’s family threw a New Year’s Eve potluck dinner and every guest brought something that represented their lives that year. Ramen noodles from a college freshman and a French salad with goat cheese, from Liz, who had just returned from a semester in France!

Erik Davis, Chicago As someone who loves to eat, the meals are an important part of his family celebration. Christmas Eve features Danish food (his mother is Danish) and Christmas dinner is always oysters and roast beef.

Jenny Muslin, Chicago During this time of year, she looks forward to baking holiday cookies, going to friends’ annual holiday parties, and walking around the city all beautifully lit up.

Violetta Dominek, Chicago As a Hungarian tradition, her family decorates the tree on Christmas Day. It means you have to find the tree, bring it in the house, put some candy on it (another tradition) and celebrate, all on one day! Chaotic, but worth it!

John Reilly, Lake Forest His favorite tradition is sharing holiday dinner with family and friends. In lieu of exchanging gifts with the family they give to those less fortunate.

Tate Gunnerson, Chicago There’s nothing like getting together with family and friends, eating too much and grazing on leftovers anyway. Christmas isn’t about racking up debt and wishing for what we don’t have. It’s about appreciating our loved ones and feeling gratitude for what we do have.

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favorite holiday traditions

Laura Tiebert, Wilmette She loves to bring the outdoors inside for the holidays. Every year her family collects greenery and then decorates the branches with tiny gold and red and silver ornaments. They are beautiful around a pillar candle on a dining table, or strewn across a mantel, and they smell wonderful!

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what’s new hot in the northern suburbs By Liz Logan

JAMMIES THAT ROCK

FOR YOUR LITTLE GUY

ANTIQUES ROW GROWS

MALL’S GOT IT ALL

For those fighting to sleep through hot flashes, aches, pains and the like, there’s help. The negatively charged ions in the fabric of Goodnighties are scientifically proven to reduce aches and pains, and the fabric also wicks away moisture. That’s why Highland Park residents Sarah Baldwin and Jack Weissman, who handle marketing and sales for the company, recommend these jammies to all their friends—even those suffering with chronic illnesses.

Men are always hard to shop for … even when they’re just boys. Red 21, a new store in South Barrington, offers all the comfy classics, with fun, contemporary prints: graphic T-shirts, cargo pants, polo shirts, hoodies and more. And they can play while you shop: the store features three video game systems, plus a play area and coloring station for toddlers.

Antiques Row in Wilmette now boasts a new addition: Collectors Corner, an antique mall owned by Steve and Donna Strelitz of Northbrook, 35-year veterans of the business. With the help of roughly 15 dealers, they stock restored light fixtures, statues, oil paintings, rugs, and costume and fine jewelry, at a variety of price points. The roughly 100-yearold building, which used to be a drug store, “is a nice setting for antiques,” Steve says.

The holiday shopping boom brings some new retailers to Westfield Old Orchard. Look for: Charlotte Russe, for affordable, on-trend women’s clothing, similar to the fashions available at H&M and Forever 21; Adagio Teas, offering every leaf and tea set you ever dreamed of; and a pop-up FAO Schwarz store for the li’l ones.

goodnighties.com

✴

Make It Better readers get 25 percent off through Dec. 31. Enter code BETTER at checkout.

The Arboretum of South Barrington, Ste. Q 50, 100 W. Higgins Rd., South Barrington, 847-836-2434, red21boys.com

901 Ridge Rd. (at Lake Ave.), Wilmette, 847-256-1136

FIND MORE FRESH ONLINE EVERY MONDAY We seek out the new and fresh in your community. Find Fresh every Monday on the home page of

DECEMBER 2010

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Skokie Blvd. and Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, 847-674-7070, westfield. com/oldorchard

makeitbetter.net

From left to right: Goodnighties photo courtesy of Goodnighties; Red 21 photo by Brittany Merrifield Holder; Steve and Donna Strelitz photo by Erik Davis; Westfield Old Orchard photo courtesy of Westfield

fresh

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founder’s letter

abundant blessings for the holidays By Susan Blankenbaker Noyes

re you ready for the holidays? I’m not—except in one regard. I haven’t even made a Thanksgiving shopping list yet, let alone one for Christmas. And I still haven’t lost those 10 pounds; how will I justify holiday noshing? Worse yet, the piles in my home are multiplying rather than subtracting—

leaving no room for decorations. And holiday cards? We’re thinking Happy May Day cards instead. But at least I’ve counted my blessings. And you are one of them. Thank you for caring enough about Make It Better.net and me to take the time to read this. Every member of our amazing, talented, connected 34-person staff is also a blessing. Other blessings include every

advertiser, school group and nonprofit with whom we work. They make our communities more vibrant and we encourage you to support them all. But my greatest blessing is my family, pictured above at Christmas last year. They join me and our Make It Better.net family in wishing you abundant blessings for the holidays too.

Kathryn Achenbach

Patti Augustyn

Michele Bass

Heather Blackwell

Julie Carter

Eileen Casey

Kimberly Carroll

Julie Chernoff

Megan Davy

Jessica DeJong

Stacy Ditka

Mindy Faunterloy

Alex Ford-Carther

Karen Gold

Nadine Graber

Suzy Guyot Hilbrant

Laura Hine

Megan Holbrook

Kelly Konrad

Sharon Krone

Deana Lewis

Liz Logan

Sandra A. Miller

Susan B. Noyes

Karilyn Owens

Sarah Philippart

Bev Pinaire

Lives Made Better: 26,815 Catherine Rocca

Ann Marie Scheidler

DECEMBER 2010

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Sandy Tsuchida

Joan Vesselinovitch

Michelle Weiss

Ryan Welch

John Williams

Photos courtesy John Reilly Photography, Karilyn Owens

happy holidays from our family to yours

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Founder Susan B. Noyes

Publisher & CEO Kimberly Carroll

Co-founder & Vice President of Marketing Mindy Fauntleroy

COO & Web Director Julie Barrett Creative Director Cheryl Berman

Editor in Chief Laura Hine Associate Editor Liz Logan

Fashion Editors Kathryn Achenbach Ann Marie Scheidler Events Editor Kelly Konrad Dining Editor Julie Chernoff Food and Wine Editor Laura Hine Contributing Columnists Dorothy Andries Marjie Killeen Contributing Editor Laura Tiebert Contributing Writers Christy Coughlin Tate Gunnerson Val Haller Sharon Krone Arlyn Miller Jenny Muslin Photographers Jon Cancelino Erik Davis Karilyn Owens John Reilly Art Director Lana Gwinn Designer Jessica DeJong Proofreader Julie Chernoff Director of Community Connectors Suzy Guyot Hilbrant Directors of Community Development Heather Blackwell Sharon Krone Sandra A. Miller Chief Financial Officer Sandy Tsuchida Videographer Megan Davy

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you said it

get online

Here’s some recent feedback we’ve gotten from readers. We love to hear from you—so please send us your stories, comments, ideas, reviews and resources!

ust a quick note to say “thanks” for the heads up about the Last Call Art Fair in Highwood this past weekend. My husband and I had a wonderful afternoon (with sweaters) walking through the fair, AND we found a gorgeous painting for our bedroom. So, there you go, your October issue hit a home a run for us. Best, Carole

hanks so much for the magazine featuring your wonderful article about scrapbooking, (October 2010) Darlene and the paragraph about me! I was just thrilled. The magazine is great and I’m going to subscribe to it. Thanks again for the great article promoting this wonderful hobby. Best, Leslie Kazmierowski BE HEARD Share your thoughts, ideas and story suggestions with us at makeitbetter.net/forums

lease cancel my subscription. I have been enjoying your magazine very much until this month’s, “Sex and the Suburbs” article by Marjie Killeen. Ms. Killeen treated the subject of human sexuality as though it were just another aspect of human relationships. It goes deeper than that. Human sexuality has a specific purpose: union of man and woman, family life and procreation of children. Ms. Killeen’s article treats human sexuality as though it were just another means for personal and singular fulfillment. I was about to recommend this magazine to a friend, but I decided not to. Betty Kovathana

MARJIE RESPONDS: It may feel like this subject—women who come out late in life as lesbians—is cutting edge, but it really isn’t. It has been discussed in far greater detail in Oprah’s O Magazine, on “The View,” and with Matt Lauer on the “Today” show. As a magazine geared toward educated, affluent women, we have a responsibility to at least acknowledge that some women among us are lesbians. Yes, even on the North Shore! My piece was not graphic or persuasive—just a report on a trend that already exists.

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ADVERTISING Ad Sales Director Michelle Weiss Account Executives Patti Augustyn Michele Bass Julie Carter Eileen Casey Stacy Ditka Karen Gold Nadine Graber Megan Holbrook Deana Lewis Sales/Traffic Coordinator Ryan Welch Designers Karilyn Owens Sarah Philippart

COMMUNITY CONNECTORS Chris Castino Lori Dube Tamara Fountain Linda Goldman Mary Beth Goss Cindy Lillard Debbie Madlener Karen Miller Kathleen Nelson Anne Neumann Pam Ogborn Stacy Simpson

INTERNS Katherine Fernholz Sean Foreman

MakeItBetter.net 1150 Wilmette Ave., Suite J, Wilmette, IL 60091, 847-256-4642 Got feedback? E-mail Susan@MakeItBetter.net To advertise, contact Michelle@MakeItBetter.net

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online

your life made better at makeitbetter.net ˆ and easier

what’s cooking?

Q&A WITH NIGELLA LAWSON

guides

(ALMOST) HOMEMADE COOKIES

’Tis the season for freshly baked treats whether hosting friends or gifting goodies. Our bakeries guide will point you in the right direction. makeit better.net/bakeries

nominations

newsletter

KNOW A NOTEWORTHY ENTREPRENEUR?

A BETTER INBOX

Are you getting The Better Letter delivered to your email inbox? It’s filled with the latest and greatest Make It Better news and $5 is donated to the charity of your choice when you sign-up. makeitbetter.net/better-letter

make a difference

FEELING GENEROUS?

Browse our lineup of quick and easy ways to help. Some take just a minute but have lasting impact. makeitbetter.net/quickhelp

DECEMBER 2010

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wine

events

Forget wandering the aisles looking for inspiration to strike! Make It Better readers recommend their favorite wines under $15. makeitbetter.net/ wineunder15

Each week we offer up a fresh list of ideas to keep your onthe-go family entertained. makeitbetter.net/entertainment

DELICIOUS WINE UNDER $15

NEED IDEAS FOR THE WEEKEND?

Make It Better is now accepting nominations for local entrepreneurs to feature in our March 2011 issue. Drop us a note and tell us what makes your favorite entrepreneur special. makeitbetter.net/ nominations

Photo of pasta by Liz Parsons courtesy of “Nigella Kitchen” by Nigella Lawson. Photo of painting courtesy of Amdur Productions.

One of our favorite celebrity chefs, Nigella Lawson, stopped in at The Bookstall in Winnetka to share her latest creation. Make It Better was there to capture the action and share this private interview with you. makeitbetter.net/nigella

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need a holiday sitter for fido? Recommendations from The Better List. Makeitbetter.net/ the-better-list Best Friends Pet Care Lincolnshire 847-634-9444 Carriage Hill Kennels, Inc. Glenview 847-724-0270 www.carriagehillkennels.com

Photo of pasta by Liz Parsons courtesy of “Nigella Kitchen” by Nigella Lawson. Photo of painting courtesy of Amdur Productions.

Kennelworth Kennels Glenview 847-724-2282 Lake Forest Kennel Club Lake Forest 847-234-3120 Loving Care Pet Services Northbrook 847-205-3320 www.lovingcarepetservices.com Rover’s Place Highland Park 847-410-1361 Tracy’s Doggone Farm Wadsworth 847-336-3343 Wiggly Tails Northbrook 847-272-4141

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tick tock

20 - M I N UTE TI M EO UT

scribble your way to relaxation By Arlyn Miller

tuck inside and looking for a way to de-stress? Try this simple exercise suggested by Buffalo Grove artist and teacher Jackie Neumann. Begin with a sheet of paper of any size and any drawing tool. Make continuous large and small sweeping motions with the drawing tool. “I usually tell my students to try to use the whole sheet of paper,” Jackie says. “It’s a lot more fun if you don’t look while you are doing the exercise.” When you’ve fin-

ished scribbling, look at your creation to see if you can pick out hidden pictures. You might be surprised at what you find and may even be inspired to color or fill in your designs. “Out of scribbles have come faces, birds, houses, even dogs!” Jackie says. Jackie often uses this method, suitable for people of any age, with kids. “It’s a way to relax and connect with the paper and feel comfortable and ready to move on to the next planned lesson.” For busy adults, that next lesson may be work, carpooling, or the myriad other things we do in our busy grown-up lives.

Jackie Neumann lives in Buffalo Grove, where she teaches special education at Tripp Elementary School. She also teaches private art lessons for kids. To find other private lessons, visit makeitbetter.net/ the-better-list.

shave an hour

By Laura Hine

OLD WAY

BETTER WAY

MINUTES SAVED

Drag out the vacuum to “deep clean” your home’s nooks and crannies before the houseguests arrive.

Give your children each a Swiffer sheet and challenge them to see who can get it the dirtiest (which will get your house the cleanest). It won’t be as clean as if you had vacuumed—but let’s call it good enough. Supply prizes for each sheet dirtied.

Dutifully cook every dish your family expects this time of year: sweet potatoes, sugar cookies, latkes—you name it.

Make the food you love, but feel no guilt about buying, assigning or skipping the rest.

Keep your Christmas list on random scraps of paper that you lose multiple times and then try to recreate without success.

Use your iPhone or smart phone’s list app. You won’t lose your list, and you’ll have it with you when you’re wondering if your sister-in-law mentioned wanting cashmere socks or Donna Karan’s Cashmere Mist perfume.

Agree to do every possible activity, overschedule yourself and watch your blood pressure go through the roof.

Leave yourself wiggle room between events. If you think you can get from the Brownie meeting to the orthodontist with a stop to buy the school bus driver a gift card in 15 minutes, allow yourself 30 minutes instead. Enjoy the fact that you don’t have to keep calling people to explain why you’ll be late—again.

5 2

Hit the stores on Saturday at 2 p.m. and battle the crowds in the parking lot and in the stores.

Local stores have plentiful evening hours for holiday shopping. Grab a girlfriend, clear your calendar for one evening, and shop, stress—and parking-hell free.

TOTAL MINUTES SAVED

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(for each apologetic phone call)

13 60

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HALF TIME

holiday traditions in no time By Laura Hine

IF YOU HAVE HALF A MINUTE

Say a simple prayer, blessing or meditation with your family before dinner. Remind everyone of our greatest blessing— our families. IF YOU HAVE HALF AN HOUR

Go to p.117 to see some great holiday traditions we’d love to share with you. Read for inspiration and try a new one or rekindle one that your family used to love, but dropped over the years. IF YOU HAVE HALF A DAY

Plan an all-family outing. Volunteer to help those less fortunate (go to makeitbetter.net/make-a-difference or see p.104 for ideas). Plan a sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing outing. We’ve even got ideas for the hot chocolate that follows. Go to makeitbetter.net/hotchocolate. Or stay in and bake with your kids and then deliver care packages to your neighbors and friends. Our favorite cookie recipes are listed at makeitbetter. net/cookies. BETTER LIST For links to our recommended local stores and their hours, see our Better List at makeitbetter.

net/the-better-list

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R e comm e n d e d

By Kelly Konrad

editor’s pick Renegade Craft Fair 4th Annual Holiday Sale

Are you an Etsy kind of gal? Don’t miss the Renegade Craft Fair’s final 2010 show. It’s free, and features the best in homemade clothing, housewares, jewelry, stationery, ceramics and more! Grab a girlfriend, hit the photo booth while you’re there, and make this season a memorable one.

Homemade Soups Workshop December 3 & 27 Viking Cooking School, 1140 N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview | 847-350-0705 | vikingcookingschool.com/glenview Cultivate those winter nesting activities with a lesson in homemade soup! The class covers shortcuts and the all-important garnish—make that soup look pretty! 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; $89.

Dickens of a Holiday One of a Kind Show and Sale December 2 - 5 Merchandise Mart, Chicago | 312-527-4141 | oneofakindshowchicago.com It’s the One of a Kind Show and Sale Chicago’s 10th anniversary! More than 600 juried artists, craftspeople and designers from around the world converge on Chicago, making for a great excuse to get to the city and shop ‘til you drop.

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December 4 Downtown Libertyville | 847-680-0336 | mainstreetlibertyville.org Kick the holiday spirit up a notch with a day trip right out of a “Christmas Carol” scene. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for the obligatory child-crying-on-Santa’s-lap picture, and kids can also enjoy a special shopping experience, sans parents, with “elves” that help them shop for you—wrapping included!

Left photo courtesy of One of a Kind Show and Sale; right photo courtesy of Main Street Libertyville

December 4 & 5 Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago | 773-227-2707 | renegadecraft.com/holiday-chicago

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University Chorale: 71st Annual Christmas Concert December 4 – 5 Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston | 847-467-4000 Northwestern University’s musical programming is an underrated gem, and their holiday concert is an excellent chance to truly enjoy what the North Shore has to offer.

An Evanston Symphony Christmas December 5 Evanston Township High School Auditorium, 1600 Dodge St., Evanston | evanstonsymphony.org

Top photo courtesy of Evanston Symphony, bottom photo by Robin Carlson

Got a case of the Bah Hambugs? We dare you to attend the Evanston Symphony’s holiday show and not walk out with a big smile and warm heart. A full chorus, 90 musicians, dancers and, yes, tap-dancing reindeer make for a magical afternoon.

Hanukkah Dinner and Concert December 5 Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe 847-835-5440 | chicago-botanic.org Enjoy dinner, a concert from the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and a visit to the Wonderland Express exhibition. continued on page 26

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS December 14 Harris Theatre for Music, Chicago 312-334-7777 | harristheaterchicago.org For anyone who likes their holidays with a slice of “strange,” this one-man show will deliver. Campy with a holiday theme, and definitely for adults. Get a sitter for this one.

THE NUTCRACKER BY THE JOFFREY BALLET December 10 – 26 Auditorium Theatre, Chicago | 312-922-2110 | auditoriumtheatre.org It’s a holiday classic—how can you do any better than the Joffrey? Make a day of it, and be sure to visit the Macy’s State Street windows, with a lunch or dinner in the Walnut Room. Every little girl’s holiday fantasy.

A CIVIL WAR CHRISTMAS Through December 19 Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie 847-673-6300 | northlight.org If you’ve already checked “A Christmas Carol” off your holiday bucket list, maybe it’s time to try a different theatre experience. Set on Christmas Eve in 1864, two women’s lives cross paths—each looking for something different, but united in hope.

GROVE HOLIDAY STORE Through December 23 The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview 847-299-6096 | glenviewparks.org Caught the holiday nostalgia bug? Try The Grove—you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back to your grandmother’s house. Holiday decorations, personalized ornaments, crafts and more!

December 19 - 20 Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe 847-835-5440 | chicago-botanic.org Want to see your children’s eyes light up? Let them break bread with Santa! The Chicago Botanic Garden’s annual event includes a buffet dinner and access to Wonderland Express.

WINTER FARMER’S GARDEN MARKET December 19 Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe | 847-8355440 | chicago-botanic.org The fall harvest may be in the rear view mirror, but you can still enjoy fresh veggies. While you’re there, take a stroll through the Garden’s Wonderland Express.

FOR MORE GREAT EVENTS ... Visit the home page every Friday, where you’ll find picks from our Events Editor

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ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES AND FLEA MARKET December 11 - 12 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake | 847-680-7200 zurkopromotions.com Need a gift for quirky Uncle Steve, the guy who collects Star Wars juice glasses? Take a drive to the Grayslake fairgrounds for the year’s final antiques and collectibles flea market. If you can’t find something here, you’re not trying hard enough!

SHAKESPEARE IN CINEMA: LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST December 9 & 12 Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central St. 847-251-7424 | wilmettetheatre.com Date night? Great night! Ditch the holiday scene for a few hours and escape to London’s Globe Theatre for one of the Bard’s classic tales. (Psst ... want bonus parent points? Bring the kids and they’ll get a leg up in the high school English class.)

Left photo courtesy of Robin Carlson, right photo courtesy of Northlight Theatre

SUPPER WITH SANTA

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Light Opera Works Hello Dolly December 26 - January 2 600 Emerson, Evanston | 847-869-6300 light-opera-works.org The presents have been opened, dinner served, guests entertained. Now grab your significant other and celebrate the end to another year with this romp of a musical comedy.

The Second City Holidays in the Heights Through December 30 Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights 847-577-2121 | metropolisarts.com Holidays can bring out the crazy in anyone— treat yourself to a laugh at your expense and everyone else’s with Second City’s annual Arlington Heights show. Our advice? Wear your ugly sweater.

Photo courtesy of Light Opera Works

69th Annual Premier North Shore Antiques Show & Sale December 4 & 5 930 Greenleaf Ave., Wilmette | 847-251-0527 womansclubofwilmette.org The North Shore has plenty of shopping opps for the season, including this long-running show. It features some of the Midwest’s finest dealers, and the wares run the gamut— everything from fine art to furniture to vintage jewelry. Pick up a stunning piece that’ll make your New Year’s Eve ensemble sparkle.

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connections for the homeless By Laura Hine

he people served by Connections for the Homeless aren’t who you think they are. Yes, some are lost souls who are scarred by mental health issues, substance abuse and the street. For them, Connections provides a safe place to store vital documents, a shower, a warm meal—literally a connection to society and safety. But the majority doesn’t fit that stereotype. They are the single mom who just lost her job and won’t be able to make next month’s rent payment. The lawyer who lost his family and job due to depression. And the woman who needs to leave an abusive partner. These people could be your neighbors — and they’re also clients of Connections for the Homeless. “Being a volunteer with Connections has let me see that positive things can happen for people. It’s helped me see the Divinity in people and connect with that,” Pendleton who has devoted her time to the says Katy Pendleton, Evanston-based organization in various roles over the last 23 years. She has watched the programs grow and develop, but strongly feels it’s the devotion of the staff that makes a difference. Connections started in 1984 as a shelter attached to Lake Street Church of Evanston. Now they serve 900 clients each year, and they provide much more than a shower and a sandwich. About half of their clients need prevention services—an emergency security deposit or rent subsidy— in order to keep them from becoming homeless in the first place. If that fails, Connections makes sure the individual or family is homeless for as short a time as possible. CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Paul Selden, executive director

PHOTOS BY JOHN REILLY AND VIOLETTA DOMINEK John Reilly Photography DECEMBER 2010

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There’s no shame in getting help from family. But if there are no family resources and something unexpected happens, Connections can be that family and fill in the gaps.”

“Poor people are at risk for homelessness. And we’re seeing more first-time homeless,” says Executive Director Paul Selden, Ph.D. “There’s a lag, someone will lose their job, go through savings, and then live with family or friends, before becoming homeless.” What that client needs is personal, financial and housing stability. So Connections offers classes on employment skills, financial literacy, substance abuse counseling and landlord/tenant relations. Plus, they have groups that meet to teach life skills like cooking and stress management. It’s intense and much of it is one-on-one, but that’s what makes the difference for the individual at risk. Hilda’s Place and Entry Point are the soup kitchen and drop-in shelter that provide a place for a homeless person to meet a case manager and decide on goals for the future. “We’re trying to establish a therapeutic relationship with each client,” says Becky Feiler, director of Clinical Services. “We treat each person with dignity and respect.” Staff members understand the trauma of living on the street, and realize that for many of these individuals, the problems they face are difficult to undo. But they’re willing to meet their clients wherever they are and start with the smallest of steps. “We now have a nurse one morning and one evening a week,” says Lisa Todd, volunteer manager. In addition, a medical clinic, staffed once a week by a volunteer doctor, has helped reduce ER visits by 90%. “Helping our clients stabilize their medications is so important given that the client base of Connections is aging.” According to Miracle Ladde, case manager, a lot of people who are in their 50s and 60s are too young for Social Security, but are finding it very difficult to get employed. In those cases, Connections finds them resources in the community and within their family to keep them off the streets. “There’s no shame in getting help from family,” says Todd. “But if there are no family resources and something unexpected happens, Connections can be that family and fill in the gaps.”

Jenna Levinson, prevention case manager, and Roland Fouche, housing coordinator

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People come to Connections for the Homeless in all stages of need. Some are already on the street; others are about to lose their homes. Here are three success stories: Families who were in desperate situations, but who now have stability in their housing, employment and personal situations.

A young mother with a criminal record hadn’t worked in two years. She needed work and wanted to work. Eric Dougal, employment coordinator for Connections, was willing to put himself on the line to help her. “I had an established relationship with a manager at a local Corner Bakery,” he says. So he made the call and made his case for why this young woman deserved a job. “She went in for an interview. Two days later she started working and now it’s been six months and she loves the job and they love her.” Connections provided the bridge to employment, but as Dougal notes, “She took the opportunity and made the absolute most of it.”

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Becky Feiler, director of clinical services; Miracle Ladde, case manager; and Eric Dougal, employment coordinator (left to right)

A woman laid off from her job came to Connections for transitional housing when she could no longer pay her rent. While in the shelter, Connections helped her find a job – and then she found a second job. She worked both jobs, saved her money and met with a therapist to work through some of the issues that had led to homelessness. Connections continues to support her, but she’s doing her part—working and paying the rent on the apartment Connections found for her.

In one year, the middle-class husband and wife’s world crumbled. She was diagnosed with terminal cancer and he was in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Without family to help, they were about to lose their house. The staff at Connections pitched in and each took a piece of the problem. They found affordable housing, helped get their finances in order and assisted with some of their legal problems.

If you would like to get involved with Connections for the Homeless, please visit their web site at cfthinc.org. They need financial contributions, volunteers and donations of food and clothing. You can also speak to Sue Loellbach, director of development, at 847-475-7070 ext. 101.

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2010

gift guide

G I F T A N D E N T E R TA I N M E N T G U I D E By Laura Hine

e’re all searching this time of year: for the perfect holiday cookie recipe, the most gorgeous trimmings for our home, the ideal gift for everyone on our list— and after all that is accomplished, we might even search for a little serenity. We’ll leave the serenity to you, but meanwhile, we’re helping by giving you a head start on gifts. What to get our spouse, children, parents, friends—maybe even a little something for ourselves. We asked savvy, stylish Make It Better readers to recommend presents based on their passions— music, food, technology, fitness, arts & crafts, travel, decorating, gardening and more. You will gain inspiration for the best gift giving ever from these amazing people. And since it’s also the season for entertaining, we also help you make it more festive with fabulous fashion, hostess gifts and tips.

Please note prices are average retail and are rounded to the nearest dollar.

PORTRAIT PHOTOS BY JOHN CANCELLINO

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gift guide

for the busy crafter

By Liz Logan

MAKE IT BETTER READER: STACY SIMPSON, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH, SCOTT SIMPSON BUILDERS, NORTHBROOK Stacy is quite the crafter: She mosaics, scrapbooks, makes jewelry and crochets (she made the wrap in this photo!). She cofounded the Party Dress Project with Beth Hirshman of Northbrook and their respective daughters, who had the idea to trade dresses. The idea grew into an annual boutique where lightly worn dresses are sold for $25 each, with proceeds benefiting a charity that works with youth.

LOVE TO SCRAPBOOK? Read about scrapbooking for fun and charity, and find a list of our favorite scrapbooking and craft stores online

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1. HANDMADE, WITH HEART A fair-trade jewelry piece from Acacia Creations is not only eclectic, colorful and unique, but also helps bead makers in Kenya and Uganda make a living. And since the beads are made from magazines, your gift helps keep paper out of landfills. Stacy says: “Because it’s handmade, it’s personal, and it gives back.” $11-$29, at Chalet in Wilmette, Country Classics in Glenview, Peg Ann Kompany in Lake Bluff, and Stella in Evanston. 2. IMAGE SAVER Busy moms and dads, whether crafters or not, can scan important documents, photos and keepsakes on-the-go with the Flip-Pal mobile scanner. The device easily fits in a purse and saves high-resolution images in true color to a memory card. Stacy says: “I was skeptical at first, but I think this would be extremely helpful—especially because I could scan a photo in a scrapbook or a frame without having to remove it.” $150, flip-pal.com

3. NOTABLE NOTES The luxe, romantic stationery and accessories from Anna Griffin would make any woman (or girl) feel like Marie Antoinette, especially the Isabelle and Darcey collections. Stacy says: “They’re beautiful, and very feminine. The blank notecards would be perfect for a crafter to personalize with a button or a stamp.” $15 for 20 blank cards and envelopes, annagriffin.com and at All She Wrote, 825 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, 773-529-0100 4. BUTTON IT UP For the serious crafter who craves the coolest tools, the Epiphany Crafts Button Studio lets you create custom acrylic buttons or epoxy shapes with one simple punch. Stacy says: “This would be a great gift for people who are into collage or card-making.” $25 plus $5 for a pack of buttons or epoxy shapes, epiphanycrafts.com 5. RACK IT UP The multi-tier Grab N’ Go Rack Systems from Creative Options make it easy for crafters to organize all their materials and tote them from place to place. Stacy, who travels to several scrapbooking events each year, says: “These racks are great for the traveling crafter, or just to have at home.” $25-$50 (depending on the size), at Archiver’s in Niles; Jo-Ann in Arlington Heights, Niles, Lake Zurich and Vernon Hills; and Michaels in Glenview, Niles and Skokie.

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gift guide

for the music lover By Val Haller

MAKE IT BETTER READER: CATHY GLICKMAN, KINDERMUSIK INSTRUCTOR, VERNON HILLS

Cathy Glickman has been passionate about music her whole life—and as one of the North Shore’s most popular Kindermusik educators, she’s sharing her passion with new generations. In addition to teaching music, she sings! In church choirs, with the Music Institute of Chicago, in a rock band, on a children’s CD and in numerous musical theater productions. Cathy listens to everything from Bach to Billy Joel and enjoys discovering what her teenage children are listening to now.

1. THEIR LOVE OF MUSIC This brand new book by Chicago photographer Stephen Azzato, with a forward from Lester Holt, is a beautiful pictorial. Featuring many revered music icons, the book shows simple portraits with a quote from each artist. $65, quietlightpublishing.com 2. GIFT A PLAYLIST FROM VALSLIST.COM Help family and friends fill their iPods with these playlists from Valslist.com: Flowers & Custom CD A bouquet for your hosts is lovely, and including a custom CD lets the gift keep on giving long after the last petal has dropped. $40 and up, FTD.com; valslist.com Dinner In a Bag and Custom CD Are you a houseguest for the holidays? Offer to bring a meal by Gourmet In a Day, and add a custom CD. $40 and up; gourmetinaday.com; valslist.com Golden Years Playlist Series For the grandparents, this is a perfect mix of classics, covers, and new artists. From Sinatra to Adele, it’s “traditional with a twist.” Perfect for a 50th Anniversary or 75th birthday. Download a playlist or burn a CD. $15-20; valslist.com

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5 3. PORTABLE USB TURNTABLE For the boomer whose record collection is stored away, this turntable converts vinyl albums to CDs. The USB record player plugs right into your computer. As the vinyl record plays on the turntable, the audio information is being tracked, controlled, and sometimes edited to allow for better sound quality. $140, urbanoutfitters.com or $200 and up for a higher end version, numark.com

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4. VERSATILE SPEAKER SYSTEM FOR HOME OR DORM “Detachable wireless speakers are key to the most practical sound system I’ve ever seen, and it’s gotten great reviews,” Val says. The Griffin “Evolve” system allows you to pop in your iPod and detach the wireless speakers to move them anywhere you want—facing out the window for a backyard BBQ, onto the patio, or in different rooms of the house for your party. $227, avtoybox.com 5. RECORD ALBUM FRAMES Need art? Make your own. Affordable 12x12 inch frames are created specifically for your old album covers. “My office is filled with these!” Val says. $10, target.com 6. AN IPOD HOW-TO CLASS Kids, give mom and dad an hour of quality time by teaching them what you know best: how to download a song and sync an iPod. Price: It’s free!

UPCOMING CONCERTS For the latest musical happenings, visit our Events Calendar. makeitbetter.net/events

7. “MORNINGS WITH MISS CATHY” - CHILDREN’S CD A passionate advocate of children’s music, Cathy’s energetic style comes through in this well-loved collection. $15, misscathymusic. com or kindermusiknorthshore.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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gift guide

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37 8. RECYCLED ALBUMS For teens too young to know what a 45 is, here’s a cool way to wear old records. A bracelet made from an actual record album. History and jewelry. $50, uncommongoods.com For a slightly older music fan, who still rocks but worries about keeping the furniture free of drips and rings, these coasters are made out of the middle of an old 33 rpm record. $18, uncommongoods.com

9. TICKET STUB DIARY If you’re a packrat or overly sentimental or something in between, this is the perfect “music scrapbook” for you! Save your stubs from every concert and jot some notes about the show. You’ll be able to look back 20 years from now and say, “Yup, I saw them before they were big.” $10, Uncommongoods.com 10. CONCERT TICKETS And to put in the ticket stub diary? Both Cathy and Val love the idea of surprising your spouse or teen with a series of concerts. Need inspiration? Valslist. com’s “Concert Page” has filtered the list for you, including venue descriptions and a link to listen to the artists. And for kids, check out the Kids’ Concert Series at Schubas and SPACE— great Saturday afternoon shows created for your little rockers. Price varies, valslist.com, evanstonspace.com, schubas.com

11. BEATS BY DR. DRE IN-EAR HEADPHONES When one of the world’s premiere music producers (and an infamous perfectionist) endorses audio equipment, you should probably pay attention. The Beats are sleek in design and come with all of the quality manufacturing we’ve come to expect from Monster. $119, bestbuy.com or target.com

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published in partnership with our sponsor

give the gift of music Making music part of your child’s life By Dr. Mark George

usic is not only an essential part of a quality education, but a powerful contributor to quality of life. Studies show that early exposure to music plays an important role in children’s emotional, intellectual and social development. For elementary and high school students, music is an excellent tool in building important life skills like confidence, concentration and creativity. In addition to skill-building, music is a great way to make friends and memories that last a lifetime. How can you introduce music to your kids? 1. Early Musical Experiences

The most important thing for parents to understand about music and very young children is that listening equals learning. Think carefully about the sound environment in your home. The musical environment should include informal singing and a wide variety of musical genres on your audio playlist. 2. First Organized Activities

A musical environment is enriched when parents and young children participate in group music classes such as Musikgarten®. These classes teach even the youngest children that music is something that can be felt in one’s own body and shared in a community

of music makers. Once children reach preschool age, group singing is almost always an excellent choice for a musical activity. This is also the age when kids can attend their first family concerts. 3. Beginning with an Instrument

Children may begin to think about playing a musical instrument at the age of four or five. The Suzuki Method, which emphasizes listening skills and strong parent participation, is often the best option at this age. String instruments sized to scale are wonderful for little arms and hands. As a child grows, other options, such as piano, wind and brass instruments become more accessible. 4. Individual Instruction

Many schools on the North Shore have excellent music programs, including choral ensembles, bands and orchestras. Students are almost always better served if they receive private instruction in addition to their school ensemble experiences. Becoming proficient on a musical instrument builds self-confi-

dence, encourages discipline and opens up a world of social and creative activities. You do not have to have professional aspirations to enjoy the benefits of individual instruction. 5. Participating in a Musical Community

Once your child is launched in the study of music, the possibilities are endless. Whatever their ultimate career choice, a grounding in and love of music will enrich them for the rest of their lives. Chicago has some of the best professional and educational musical offerings in the world. Participate and enjoy! Give the gift of music! The Music Institute of Chicago offers private lessons, group classes, and ensemble experiences for students of all ages and levels of interest and ability at campuses in Downers Grove, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, Northbrook and Winnetka. To register your child or purchase a gift certificate for another, contact us at musicinst.org or 847-905-1500.

Music and Stories with Susan Reed, Saturday, December 11, 2010

Award-winning multi-instrumentalist Susan Reed uses original songs and tales to enchant audiences of all ages! 9 am: Pre-concert activities; 10 am: Concert. Pre-concert activities include instrument petting zoo, early childhood demos, student performances, special raffle and give-aways, refreshments and more! Tickets $10 per family. Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, musicinst.org, 847-905-1500.

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A perfect introduction! Family concerts at the Music Institute of Chicago

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gift guide

for the traveling man (or woman) on your list By Laura Hine

MAKE IT BETTER READER: JENINE MATHIAS, LAKE BARRINGTON Jenine is a gal on the move. For the last 20 years, she and her college girlfriends have picked a location and gone for a girls’ getaway. Their favorite? Spring training in Scottsdale. Combining baseball and a spa—these gals know how to have fun. Jenine’s big trip this year is to Africa over the winter holidays with her husband, three children and their three grandparents. “We love adventure travel,” she says. “The kids know this is their Christmas present, so it’s not a surprise.” She has her kids researching Zimbabwe and South Africa to learn more about the locations before the trip. We love the idea of giving your family an experience for the holidays. Here are some of Jenine’s favorite places.

1. WINTER TRAVEL: SKI TRIPS

KEYSTONE RESORT, COLORADO Jenine’s family likes this resort because it’s “cozy” and easy to get around. Plus it’s good for all levels. More information at keystoneresort.com PARK CITY, UTAH Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, this cute mining town has turned into Utah’s epicenter of après ski fun. You can ski in/ski out at Deer Valley or snowboard in/ snowboard out at Park City Mountain Resort. Also nearby, Olympic cross-country ski trails, tubing and even mineral springs in a prehistoric grotto. More information at parkcityinfo.com

TRAVEL GADGETS Planning a trip? We have low- and high-tech travel gadgets that can make the journey smoother. Check them out online at

makeitbetter.net/gadgets

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2. WINTER TRAVEL: SUN

COSTA RICA Jenine’s family rented a big house in Costa Rica for her parent’s 50th wedding anniversary. Thirteen members of her family came to help celebrate. This tiny country has rain forests, volcanoes and great beaches. There are resorts, but it’s very easy to rent a house and plan your own outings. For information on the most popular destinations, see govisitcostarica.com MIAMI It’s Florida, but worlds away from Disney. This sophisticated city has nightlife and shopping—plus lots of activities for kids. If you’re going for a romantic getaway, check out the Ritz Carlton in South Beach or the quieter Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key. Traveling with kids? The Biltmore in Coral Gables is close to Jungle Island—more flamingos than you can count. Lots of ideas for what to do in the city and surrounding areas at hellomiami.com

3. TRAVEL CLOSE TO HOME

MICHIGAN WINE TOUR Much closer than Napa and almost as many wines. This is a great trip to take with a group of your best friends. More people means more wines to sample! To plan your trip, choose a town, like Traverse City, then go to michiganwines.com for a list of the nearby wineries. You’ll need more than a weekend to hit even half of them. DOWNTOWN CHICAGO “I love a downtown weekend,” says Jenine. Close, easy, but still different enough to feel like you’ve really gotten away. For hotel ideas, theater recommendations and even restaurants check out makeitbetter.net/entertainment/outings-atravel and makeitbetter.net/dining

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gift guide

home for the holidays By Laura Tiebert

MAKE IT BETTER READER: CHRIS CASTINO, PRESIDENT, CASTINO PAINTING AND HOME SERVICES IN NORTHFIELD Despite Chris’ connection to the home decorating and repair field, she pleads ignorance regarding stucco or molding. However, as a self-proclaimed Queen of Knick Knacks, Chris is equally at home in gift shops and flea markets. She’s had a passion for collecting since she fell in love with pet rocks as a child, and today enjoys giving ordinary objects an unusual twist. Chris turns antique tennis rackets into earring hangers, a vintage child’s ironing board into a plant stand, and most recently constructed a Scrabble end table from odd parts, using the Scrabble letters to spell a personalized message.

1. CABLEKNIT CASHMERE THROW, PILLOW, AND HOT WATER BOTTLE AND COVER Want to lock in your position as #1 daughter-in-law? Chris says that no matter how big the family tree is, giving these cashmere goodies to your in-laws will propel you to the top of the list. Throw, $379; Pillow, $129; Hot Water Bottle and Cover, $49. Restoration Hardware, Deer Park Town Center, Renaissance Center in Highland Park, Old Orchard Center in Skokie, 800-910-9836, restorationhardware.com 2. KITCHEN FAUCET Kitchen in need of a facelift before holiday entertaining? Swap out your old faucet for a killer model from ROHL. This Perrin & Rowe traditional four-hole kitchen faucet has solid brass insulated hand spray, spout and handles. $1,880, Chicago Brass, 220 W. Kinzie, Chicago, 312-245-0200, chicagobrass.com

3. CUSTOM SILHOUETTE PORTRAIT BY CARTER KUSTERA Chris found this personal, one-of-a-kind gift for the family member who has everything. The silhouette portrait is destined to become a family heirloom. Pick a color, write your tagline, and submit your photos, all online. $750, Jonathan Adler, 676 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-274-9920, jonathanadler.com 4. BRUNSWICK KICKER FOOSBALL TABLE Home is where the fun is! A game table is a guaranteed magnet for the teen set—and if you don’t embarrass them (no Mom jeans!), maybe they’ll let you join in, says Chris. $449.99, The Great Escape in Edens Plaza, Wilmette, 847853-1900, shopthegreatescape.com

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10 AT HOME Find stories on design & decor, cleaning & organizing, and green living, all at makeitbetter.net/at-home

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5. Georg Jensen Steel Flatware by Arne Jacobsen For the couple who wants to give each other the gift of making their table look completely new by using something old, this stainless steel flatware was designed in 1957 and is still cutting edge. $95 for a 5-piece boxed set, Georg Jensen, 959 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-642-9160, georgjensenstore.com 6. Deluxe Hall Photo Gallery Frame Chris not only found this great gift, she has step-by-step instructions for you. Step one: Pick an afternoon and hire a professional photographer to take your family photos, both together and individually. Step two: Order the goes-anywhere Hall Gallery Frame Set from Red Envelope. Step three: When the proofs show up, each child picks their favorite of themselves, and the family votes on the group shot. Step four: Pop the photos into the frames, and you have created your own family photo wall. $89.95, Red Envelope, 877-733-3683, redenvelope.com 7. Area Rug Warmer For the person who always complains of cold feet, pick up this clever invention: the area rug warmer, made by Warmly Yours, a Long Grove-based radiant heating company. $199.95, Warmly Yours, 1-800-875-5285, warmlyyours.com 8. Littala Aalto Candleholder Chris’ twist is to fill this votive candleholder with a pound of gourmet coffee, packets of bubble bath, or marbles for that Baby Boomer friend who keeps claiming to have lost hers! A humorous note explaining your choice will make it all the more memorable.$10.95, Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com 9. Rowe Pottery Works Custom Two-Gallon Crock Next time you visit your parents, snap a photo of their house. Then, email the photo to Rowe Pottery in Cambridge, Wisconsin. Within weeks, your parents will be the owners of a handsome, hand-made and hand-decorated 2-gallon salt-glazed crock. $179.95, (smaller sizes available starting at $42.95), Rowe Pottery Works, Cambridge, Wisconsin, 800-356-7687, rowepottery.com 10. “Honey, You Don’t Have to Do List” Gift Certificate Your husband is sitting on the couch, feet up, football on TV, popcorn bowl in lap and beer on side table. You: “Honey, could you possibly change the batteries in the smoke detectors/move the bookshelves/rewire the ceiling fan?” Him: (Smiling smugly as he hands you a gift certificate). “Honey, call a handyman instead. It’s already paid for.” Castino Painting & Home Services of Northfield is offering this gift certificate for $300 in services to Make It Better readers for only $200. 847-729-3200, castinopainting.com Make sure to say you’re calling for the Make It Better special!

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gift guide

hostess with the most-est By Jenny Muslin

MAKE IT BETTER READER: TINA SCHULER OF GURNEE Why show up with the standard bottle of wine when these gifts can make you a star guest? Tina Schuler of Gurnee is known as the ultimate hostess to her friends and family. Tina enjoys entertaining with her husband, Scott, and two daughters, Natalie, 12, and Elizabeth, 10. Tina draws inspiration from Martha Stewart and enjoys using vintage items to add character to the table. “I enjoy antiquing and use old linens, silverware and vintage serving dishes to change the look of things, without spending too much,” Tina says. “For instance, I have an old hutch on my patio and keep miscellaneous silverware together in a basket for outdoor entertaining.” Depending on the time of year, Tina creates a menu that’s seasonal and leans towards a particular flavor or type of food. She also relies on farmer’s markets for flowers and vegetables, saying, “There’s just no substitute for the real thing.”

1. SACS OF LIFE RE-USABLE GROCERY BAG with thermal interior $45, The Style Shack, 447 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-579-4525; style shackgifts.com

2. MICHAEL ARAM COFFEE SPOON Useful, fun, and beautifully designed. $44 from Art Effect, 934 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, 773-9293600, shoparteffect.com

3. MONOGRAM SOAPS AND HAND TOWEL $45, The Stationery Studio, 460 Newtown Drive, Buffalo Grove, 847-541-5800, thestationerystudio.com

4. METRYOSKA MEASURING CUPS by Fred Charming and sweet, these measuring cups really doll up a kitchen. $16, Art Effect, 934 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, 773-9293600, shoparteffect.com 5. CREATIVE CO-OP BATHROOM TOWEL HOLDER Little birds make this a charming addition to the bathroom. $18, The Style Shack, 447 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-5794525, styleshackgifts.com

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MAKE IT BETTER DISCOUNTS FOR READERS:

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10% discount from Style Shack during the month of December (on one purchase) 10% discount from Royal ✴ Appointments during the month of December (on one purchase) Use code MIB1210 ✴ during the month of December and receive 20% off the Stationery Studio gifts featured

THE GREAT ENTERTAINERS For tips from women who are expert entertainers, including our Dining Editor Julie Chernoff, visit makeitbetter.net/dining

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6. TAKE-OUT MENU BOX Hand-painted and perfect for storing all your takeout menus. $29, from Royal Appointments, 2048 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-559-8111, royalappointmentsonline.com 7. CALF AND HALF CREAMER This whimsical little creamer by Fred will be a welcome addition to your hosts’ breakfast table. $26 from Art Effect, 934 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, 773-929-3600, shoparteffect.com 8. BAMBOO SALAD SERVERS WITH A DARLING PUCCI-STYLE CASE, $40, The Style Shack, 447 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-579-4525, www.styleshackgifts.com 9. MONOGRAMMED PLAYING CARDS GIFT SET When Tina is the guest, she explains, “I really love bringing anything monogrammed. It’s such a personal touch and you really can’t go wrong.” These monogrammed gifts instantly make something common more special. $55, The Stationery Studio, 460 Newtown Dr.,Buffalo Grove, 847-541-5800, thestationery studio.com 10. PERSONALIZED “HOME IS GROWN” PLATTER An ideal gift for a family. $29, Royal Appointments, 2048 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-559-8111, royalappointments.com 11. LAPHROAIG ISLAY SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY A great change-up from wine when you need a host gift. $44, Schaefer’s, 9965 Gross Point Rd., Skokie, 847-677-WINE, shaefers.com 12. SACS OF LIFE METRO EARTH BAG This bag lays across your body—perfect for the mom on-the-move. $60, The Style Shack, 447 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-579-4525 styleshackgifts.com

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gift guide

for those who live to eat By Julie Chernoff

MAKE IT BETTER READER: STEVEN SCHEYER, CEO, OPTIMER BRANDS, GLENCOE Ask Steven Scheyer what he does, and you’ll hear about the business that takes him around the world. But his passion? This is a man who “lives to eat.” Born and raised in Glencoe, Scheyer describes his home life as “foodcentric,” revolving around food. Where to eat, what to order; these are important questions! Mediterranean is his go-to cuisine, with great olive oil, garlic, lemon and greens his favorite ingredients. He swears by his Breville juicer and Jura coffeemaker (“the perfect restaurant crema,” he marvels), and Chicago-area meals at Prairie Grass, Sun Wah and Riccardo Trattoria. He’s a one-man Open Table, fielding restaurant requests from friends and clients alike.

1. SALT GIFT BOX Salt is the basic building block for any chef. “This one’s a winner,” says Scheyer. $23, handmade wood salt cellar $15, salt collection The Spice House, 1941 Central St., Evanston, 847-328-3711 2. BUILT INSULATED “SIZZLER” OVEN MITTS These super-flexible oven mitts are long enough to prevent those nasty mid-arm burns. $18, Abt Electronics, 1200 N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, 888-228-5800, abt.com

3. BREVILLE JUICER FOUNTAIN ELITE You’ll feel healthy with a juicer on your counter. Try Scheyer’s favorite green juice: Granny Smith apples, romaine, kale, lemon and parsley. It’s delish. $300, Abt Electronics, abt.com 4. COOKING CLASSES AT THE WOODEN SPOON Learn to cook like a pro. Standard classes are $65, or throw a cooking party for $80 per guest, a minimum of your 12 best peeps. 5047 N. Clark, Chicago, 773-293-3190 CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

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LIVE TO EAT Find weekly reviews of new restaurants and quick, easy family dinners in the What’s Cooking? section, online at

makeitbetter.net/dining

DECEMBER 2010

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4. AUTHENTIC MEXICAN MOLCAJETE Rick Bayless is your idol, you say? Then you must have an authentic Mexican Molcajete, hand carved from solid volcanic rock. Pair it with his new cookbook, “Fiesta at Rick’s.” Molcajete, $30, cookbook, $35, Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com 5. FOODIE CHEESE The stinkier, the better. Check out the incredible selection of Italian cheeses at Scheyer’s favorite, Caputo & Sons, 2070 Rand Rd., Palatine, 847-705-7200, or the Caputo Cheese Market in Lake Forest, 231 E. Wisconsin Ave., 847-482-0100. Pair it with a 12” square Slate Cheese Board, $20, and this 3-piece Laguiole Natura Cheese Set, $30, both from Crate & Barrel. 6. BELGIAN CHOCOLATES These goodies satisfy even the fussiest foodie. These adorable Flemish Tin Houses are sure to please. $25-$40, Leonidas Café and Chocolaterie, 1157 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-256-5250, leonidas-usa.com 7. BEABA BABY COOK For the gourmet mom, this tool steams and purees your organic ingredients for the little prince or princess. $149.95, Williams-Sonoma, williams-sonoma.com 8. BAMBU HYBRID CUTTING BOARD Sustainable, functional and sleek: it’s the trifecta of kitchen equipment, made of cork and bamboo. Bamboo Goo cleaner is recommended. Cutting board, $48, Bamboo Goo cleaner, $13, Dinner at Eight, 1167 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-8380, dinnerateight.net 9. OIL & VINEGAR Scheyer’s favorite foodie gift? A really fine bottle of extra virgin olive oil, and some aged balsamic vinegar. Caputo & Sons or Convito Café & Market, Plaza del Lago, Wilmette, 847-251-3654, convitocafeandmarket.com

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gift guide

for the green thumb gardener By Laura Hine

MAKE IT BETTER READER: JEANNIE FANNING, OWNER, TWIGS IN LAKE BLUFF Jeannie started her floral shop, Twigs, just a year ago. “I always loved flowers, and now that my kids are older, it was time to do something for myself.” Jeannie has an English Knot garden at her home in Green Oaks. She gardens on about an acre, so she has lots of space for her flowers. Jeannie helped us come up with great ideas for the green thumbs on your list.

1. NATUREMILL PRO XE EDITION RECYCLED PLASTIC KITCHEN COMPOSTER Gardeners love nothing more than compost. If your gardener isn’t interested in worm composting (a safe assumption) this gizmo will turn your kitchen waste into compost in just two weeks with no smell, and very little fuss. Jeannie thought her sister-in-law would love this, especially since it’s so compact. $400, A Green Horizon, 1148 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-256-2754, agreenhorizon.com

2. COURTNEY JEFFERY VASE Jeannie loves to support local artists through her shop, and Courtney Jeffery is one of her finds. This rustic vase would be perfect for someone with a cut flower garden (or you can get it filled with beautiful greenery from Twigs!). $130, Twigs, 38 E. Center St., Lake Bluff, 847-234-TWIG (8944), twigslakebluff.com 3. 36 ACRES BY TOBIN FRALEY This portrait of the Reed-Turner Woodland Nature Preserve is a beautiful dose of green for the winter-weary gardener. Jeannie loved the beauty of the nature photos. Added bonus: a portion of the proceeds go to the Reed-Turner Woodland Trust. $35, Trillium of Long Grove, 223 Robert Parker Coffin Rd., Long Grove, 847-883-8867

5 LET YOUR GARDEN GROW Find out the secrets of some of the area’s best gardeners, online at

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4. THE VEGAN GLOVE For the gardener who likes to get her hands dirty, but not too dirty, these gloves are form fitting and comfortable. They’re also leather-free, but coated to repel dirt and water. Jeannie likes a glove that really fits her hand so you can feel what you’re doing. $30, Pasquesi Home & Garden, Barrington and Lake Bluff, pasquesi.com 5. CLASS AT THE CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN A perfect present for a grandchild and grandparent. The Chicago Botanic Garden has hands-on classes for an adult and child ages 4 to 10. Some of our favorites: Joyful Gingerbread in December, HOT Chocolate in February and Beautiful Birds in March. $17 per child member/$20 per child nonmember, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5400, chicago-botanic.org

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gift guide

for the techie By Tate Gunnerson

MAKE IT BETTER READER: SAM OGBORN, LAKE BLUFF, SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR, FUOR DIGITAL Sam Ogborn doesn’t know exactly why she’s so interested in technology, but she suspects she picked it up as a kid from her dad, an early adapter who always had the latest tech toys, some more fun than her own. Whether it’s nature, nurture or just the reality of growing up wired, Sam’s not so different from her dear old dad. “I’ve always been really passionate about technology,” says Ogborn. “I wanted to have my own website in middle school.” As a sales and marketing coordinator with digital media marketing agency, Fuor Digital, Ogborn’s smack dab in the middle of what’s next. “Anything I ever want to do has to be on the cutting edge.”

1. NIKON D90 Ogborn used to be more of a point and shoot kind of gal, but she recently bit the bullet and spent the extra money on the Nikon D90, a digital SLR with a 12.3 megapixel image quality along with Nikon’s DX-format CMOS sensor. “Now that I have a blog, I want the richest imagery possible,” explains Ogborn. $850, Wolf Camera, 206 E. Rand Rd., Arlington Heights, 847-392-2625, Other Ritz and Wolf Camera locations in Evanston, Deer Park, Vernon Hills and Skokie, ritzcamera.com

2. XBOX 360 Microsoft’s Xbox 360 game system is a sales smash with many hardcore enthusiasts. And, available in November, Kinect, Xbox 360’s full-body motion sensor promises to change the way games are played and bring the world one step closer to true virtual reality. $300, Gamestop, 76 S. Waukegan Rd., Deerfield, 847-498-5511, gamestop.com

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3. IPHONE 4 The iPhone is the Swiss Army Knife of the Internet generation. Out of the box, the iPhone lets you check your email, browse the web, record a conversation, take notes and even enables seamless video calls with its new Facetime feature. ”I just downloaded a 400 page cookbook on the iPhone for $1.99!” says Ogborn. $200 or $300 with two-year AT&T contract, Apple Store, Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, 847-679-1801, apple.com 4. SLINGBOX PRO-HD Slingbox’s motto is “Watch Your TV Anywhere.” The digital server connects to your home TV and allows you to watch your programs using an Internet connection. Ideal for road warriors or cube dwellers who can’t get through the day without checking in with Montel. $299, Best Buy, Bestbuy.com

5. KINDLE DX “It’s easy to go back and forth between books and the Kindle,” says Ogborn, who lightened her backpack when she started using the Kindle to replace her college textbooks. Better posture wasn’t the only benefit. “My friend’s textbooks cost $500, but my textbooks were $65 on the Kindle.” $379, Amazon.com

APP CENTRAL We’ve got recommendations of the 25 best iPhone apps for busy women and families makeitbetter.net/apps

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gift guide

for the fab fashionista By Kathryn Achenbach

MAKE IT BETTER READER: CANDUS SUPPELSA, EVANSTON Lover of fashion and self-described “accessories nut” Candus can’t get enough of colorful scarves, statement jewelry and sky-high heels, the perfect items to bestow on your friends and family this holiday season. She’s also a fitness instructor specializing in Zumba, so she knows the important relationship between one’s body and one’s clothes. “It has to fit, or it won’t look good,” she maintains. Here she helps us pick a selection of the most fashionable gifts that will also satisfy a variety of styles and shapes.

1. TIFFANY KEYS $38,000, Tiffany, tiffany.com 2. MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS QUILTED HAMILTON TOTE Stop traffic with this brightly hued bag. Though it comes in neutral colors, too, Candus loves the cheeky red for gray days, and so do we. $348, Michael Kors, 900 N Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-587-3600, michaelkors.com

3. TIFFANY BEZET RINGS starting from $2,500, Tiffany, 800-843-3269, tiffany.com 4. MACKAGE ROSIE GLOVES Elegance meets edge in these long, studded leather gloves. $145, Ssense.com

5. ERIN GALLAGHER BLANCHE EARRINGS Treat yourself to a pre-holiday gift and add a bit of dazzle to your party outfits. $145, erin gallagher, 1013 W Webster Ave, Chicago, 866-582-6709, egjewelry.com, MIB readers get 20% off!

6. L.A.M.B. POUNCE LEOPARD PUMPS A bold animal print on a prim heel is the best combination of sexy and sweet, says Candus.$325, Shopbop.com 7. DAVID YURMAN 7MM PRASIOLATE CABLE CLASSICS BRACELET $625, David Yurman, 877-908-1177, davidyurman.com

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8. FRENCH CONNECTION NIK NAK SWEATER Part sweater, part cape, all cozy. $198, French Connection, 212-221-3157, frenchconnection.com

9. TORY BURCH FOUNDATION SILK SCARF All profits from this colorful scarf benefit the Tory Burch Foundation, which is committed to providing economic opportunities to women across the country. $195, Tory Burch, 66 East Walton St., Chicago, 312-280-0010, toryburch.com 10. SAM EDELMAN WINSFORD BOOT Candus adores these chic lace-ups with genuine shearling and traction rubber soles, which keep you elevated above the slush. Your toes will thank you. $208, Lori’s Shoes, 311 Happ Rd., Northfield, 847446-3818, lorisshoes.com 11. DIANE VON FURSTENBERG EDWARDIAN LACE-TRIM WRAP DRESS The traditional wrap dress gets a makeover: Lacy sleeves give a hint of demure sexiness that looks good on ladies of all ages. It’s a lovely dress for anyone who embraces lace, says Candus. $325, Neiman Marcus, 888-888-4757, neimanmarcus.com 12. LESTER LAMPERT PIROUETTE NECKLACE “This necklace is so feminine and versatile--I would wear it with a formal gown or use it to dress up a t-shirt and jeans,” says Candus. starting from $3,900, Lester Lampert, 57 E Oak St., Chicago, 312-944-6888, lesterlampert.com

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13. RACH B JADE BIB NECKLACE Online retailer and nonprofit Nest supports the efforts of female artisans in developing countries and the United States. Proceeds from products go to supplying microloans, artist mentoring and business training and development to women around the world. $160, Nest, buildanest.com 14. MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS FAUXTIPPED FOX FUR VEST We saw touches of fur all over the runways for winter; faux styles are affordable but can still look chic. Candus thinks this is a great gift for someone with a daring sense of style. $130, Michael Kors, 900 N Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-5873600, michaelkors.com 15. SMYTHE BOX PLEAT BLAZER Every woman needs a black blazer in her closet. Period. $595, SHE Boutique, 483 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-926-0150, shopsheboutique.com

FASHIONABLE FRIDAYS Our Friday Better Letter features fashion, beauty and weekend events where you can show off your new look. Not a subscriber? Head to

makeitbetter.net/better-letter

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gift guide

for the sharpdressed man

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1. WILFRED NEWMAN SHIRT For impeccable dressing, seek out this Chicago apparel line’s custom fashions. A custom-made shirt is a unique gift, Candus says, especially for husbands that are hard to shop for. Holiday Special: $250 for 3 custom-made shirts, plus Make It Better readers receive a free tie! Wilfred Newman, 312-929-4357, wilfrednewman.com 2. TOM FORD BACHARDY SUNGLASSES The ultimate no-brainer gift: sleek shades that bring the cool. $360, Bloomingdales, 800-7770000, bloomingdales.com 3. J. LINDEBERG FIELDING COMPACT MELTON COAT This sporty style is a hip alternative to the more traditional pea coat. $600, Ssense.com 4. PAUL SMITH STRIPED SCARF Dark, wintry days call for a pop of color. “I love this scarf and would definitely buy it for my husband,” says Candus. $115, Paul Smith, paulsmith.co.uk

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for the cutest kids

1. JANE CONNER ENAMEL NECKLACES These sprightly monogram necklaces will delight daughters of all ages. $75, le Dress, 1741 W. Division St., Chicago, 773-697-9855, ledresschicago.com 2. RED JACKET CUBS T-SHIRT Find your child’s favorite Chicago team among this label’s line of vintage-inspired tees and hoodies. T-shirts, $25, Hoodies, $74, Denim Lounge, 2004 W Roscoe St., Chicago, 773-935-2820, thedenimlounge.com 3. KOOLABURRA FRINGE BOOTS The cutest boot just happens to be the warmest, too. Candus loves the fringe and fur combo, and deems it versatile enough for your girl to wear with anything, all winter long. $110, Madison & Friends, 43 E. Oak Street, Chicago, 312-642-6403, madisonandfriends.com 4. LILLY PULITZER WATCH SET “These are just plain fun,” says Candus. We agree, and also find that price pretty charming. $21, All She Wrote, 566 Chestnut St., Winnetka, 847-784-8260, allshewrote.com

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Photo Credits: Gift Guide

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p. 34 and 35: Photo 1 courtesy of Acacia Creations, Photo 2 courtesy of FlipPal, Photo 3 courtesy of Anna Griffin, Photo 4 courtesy of Epiphany Craft, Photo 5 courtesy of Creative Options. p. 36-38: Photos 1, 2, 5, 7, 10 by Jon Cancelino; Photo 3 courtesy of Numark; Photo 4 courtesy of Griffin; Photo 8 courtesy of Uncommon Goods; Photo 9 courtesy of Schubas; Photo 11 courtesy of Monster. p. 45-47: Photo 1 courtesy of Restoration Hardware; Photo 2 courtesy of ROHL; Photo 3 courtesy of Jonathan Adler; Photo 5 courtesy of Georg Jensen; Photo 6 courtesy Red Envelope; Photo 7 courtesy of Warmly Yours; Photo 8 courtesy of Crate and Barrel, Photo 9 courtesy of Rowe Pottery Works. p. 48-51: Photos 1, 5, 6, 8, 10, and 12 by Jon Cancelino; Photos 2, 4 and 7 courtesy Art Effects; Photos 3 and 9 courtesy of The Stationery Studio; Photo 11 courtesy of Beam Global Spirits & Wine. p. 53-55: All photos by Jon Cancelino, except Photo 3 courtesy of Breville. p. 56: Photos 2 and 3 by Jon Cancelino; Photo 1 courtesy of Naturemill; Photo 4 courtesy of Pallina; Photo 5 courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden. p. 58: Photo 1 courtesy of Nikon; Photo 2 courtesy of Microsoft; Photo 3 courtesy of Apple; Photo 4 courtesy of Slingbox; Photo 5 courtesy of Amazon. p. 60-63 Photo 1 courtesy of French Connection; Photo 2 courtesy of Neiman Marcus; Photo 3 courtesy of Smythe; Photo 4 courtesy of Sylwia; Photo 5 courtesy of J. Crew; Photos 6 and 10 courtesy of Michael Kors; Photos 7 and 8 courtesy of Ssense.com; Photo 9 courtesy of Sam Edelman; Photo 11 courtesy of Shopbop.com; Photos 12 and 14 courtesy of Tiffany; Photo 13 courtesy of Lester Lampert; Photo 15 courtesy of Erin Gallagher; Photo 16 courtesy of David Yurman; Photo 19 courtesy of Tory Burch; Photo 20 courtesy of Nest. p. 64 Photo 1 courtesy of Wilfred Newman; Photo 2 courtesy of Bloomingdale’s; Photo 3 courtesy of Ssense.com; Photo 4 courtesy of Paul Smith. p. 65 Photo 1 courtesy of le Dress; Photo 2 courtesy of Denim Lounge; Photo 3 courtesy of Koolaburra; Photo 4 courtesy of All She Wrote. p. 69 Photo 1 courtesy of Viv & Ingrid, Photo 2 courtesy of Lifetherapy, Photo 3 courtesy of Lady Godiva, Photo 4 courtesy of Talbots, Photo 5 courtesy of M.A.C., Photo 6 courtesy of Deepa Gurnani, Photo 7 courtesy of Burberry, Photo 8 courtesy of OPI, Photo 9 courtesy of Sephora, Photo 10 courtesy of Cellular Intelligence, Photo 11 courtesy of Lacoste, Photo 12 courtesy of King Baby Studio. p. 72 All photos by Jon Cancelino, except Photo 5 courtesy Smartwool. p. 74 Photo 1 courtesy Enamour; Photo 2 courtesy Trek; Photo 3 courtesy Adrienne Clarisse; Photos 4 and 6 by Jon Cancelino. p. 80 Photos 1-4 by Jon Cancelino; Photo 5 courtesy Plume; Photo 6 courtesy Bantam. p. 82 Photo 1 courtesy Light Opera Works; Photo 2 courtesy Lyric Opera; Photo 3 courtesy Ravinia Festival; Photo 4 courtesy Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Photo 5 courtesy Stratford Festival; Photo 6 courtesy BBC.

Glencoe makeitbetter.net

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published in partnership with our sponsor

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gift guide

for the beautiful friend By Ann Marie Scheidler

MAKE IT BETTER READER: JEANNIE EDWARDS OF LAKE FOREST Jeannie knows gift-giving. As a mother of three with a law degree from Notre Dame, wife to former NBA player Kevin Edwards, professional model and competitive athlete, finding that perfect gift becomes a full-time job as she gets ready to host her annual holiday party for her closest friends.

FOR THE GIRLS 1. TOUCH OF GLAMOUR “Sometimes earrings are all you need to finish an outfit,” says Edwards, who loves to give pretty jewelry to her friends. Viv & Ingrid’s gold and aqua quartz siam five-drop chandelier earrings are a statement on their own. $245, Alixandra’s Collections, 259 Market Square, Lake Forest, 847-234-1661, shopalix.com 2. CHILL “Just what we need to do when the holidays get hectic,” says Edwards. This luxurious line of fragrance created by Chicago’s very own Lynette Lovelace is subtle and peaceful with hints of calming rose, fresh citrus and heliotrope with a dry amber and vanilla finish. $22-$48, lifetherapy.com

3. BEAUTIFUL PJ’S From the Lady Godiva collection, this luxurious robe and chemise in rosewater and beige will keep you warm on cold winter nights. $92 and $66 respectively, Eberjey, Posh Essentials Boutique, 658 Central Avenue, Highland Park, 847-945-POSH, shoppingposh.com 4. WARM HANDS Keep your fingers fashionable and frostbitefree with Talbots’ Echo-touch technology iPod Touch Gloves. At the tip of the index finger is a pad that allows you to keep your fingers warm while typing on your iPod or iPad! $49, Talbots, talbots.com

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5. SWEEP ME OFF MY FEET New M·A·C Brush Bags are here for every girl who wants to arrive at a holiday event in flawless fashion. These nifty, handsome, heathery, tartan modern mash-ups, trimmed in shiny patent, can holdeverything she needs. $50, M·A·C Cosmetics, wherever M·A·C Cosmetics are sold or maccosmetics.com

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6. ALL A TWINKLE No two are alike! Each headband is carefully handcrafted with the finest materials and crystals. All pieces are 100% woven cotton elastic and backed with vintage-inspired lining. $30-$80, Deepa Gurnani, Alixandra’s Collections, 259 Market Square, Lake Forest, 847-234-1661, shopalix.com 7. LUCKY CHARM Burberry has done it again! The Burberry Beauty Lip Charm offers a natural-looking gloss to create an effortless glow with a fluid finish. Complete with an interior mirror and magnetic closure, the Lip Charm is perfect for on-the-go-touch ups during the hectic holiday party season. “I love this for my daughter—and for myself,” says Edwards. $85, Burberry Beauty, burberry.com; Nordstrom, Old Orchard Center, or nordstrom.com 8. SPARK MY MISTLETOE AND BRING ON THE TINSEL This nail polish is so hot that it might cause a real spark in the coolest red and silver of the season. $8, Nicole for OPI, Ulta, Deerfield, Deer Park, Skokie, and Vernon Hills, ulta.com

GUY GIFTS 9. THE WELL-KEPT MAN Real men worry about their skin. From Chicagobased Cellular Intelligence, these products designed just for men will give your man younger and healthier skin. $34-$112, cimedspa.com 10. BAMBOO MEETS MASSAGE Fans of deep tissue massage will have a soothing new option. The Bamboo Fusion Massage uses heated bamboo shoots to relieve aches and pains, while relaxing and re-energizing to promote mental and physical well-being. $105 for 50 minutes or $158 for 80 minutes, Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spa, Chicago, Naperville, Oak Brook, Orland Park, Schaumburg, and Vernon Hills; tricoci.com 11. ROCK N’ ROLL Who says jewelry is just for women…how about a statement accessory for your man? From Santa Monica-based King Baby Studio comes handcrafted pieces that unite chunky sterling silver with precious stones and leather. If your significant other has a rocker side, this may be the gift for him. Cuff, $520, EXTRAS at E-Street Denim, 1876 First Street, Highland Park, 847-433-8338, estreetdenim.com 12. SUPER FRESH LACOSTE Essential Sport is a brand new fragrance that provides energy and invigoration with ice cold freshness. This fragrance is bright, masculine and extremely fresh and fabulous for men of all ages. $65 for 4.2 oz., macys.com or Bloomingdales.com KNOW A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN? We’re betting you do. That’s why we use real women as our fashion models. Nominate by emailing kathryn@makeitbetter.net

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gift guide

for the get out and go crowd By Christy Coughlin

MAKE IT BETTER READER: JOLENE MOORE, WELLNESS ADMINISTRATOR, CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK A glimpse of Jolene Moore, and you know she is a serious athlete. Jolene qualified for the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Trials in race walking. She ran on scholarship at Michigan State before an injury and three children halted her competitive running. While watching race walking in the 1996 games, a fire ignited and Jolene knew she was ready. She found a coach, trained six hours a day, and became one of the best walkers in the U.S. Today, this busy mom applies her energy, experience, education, and passion to her wellness business and as the Wellness Administrator for the City of Highland Park. She also coached the walkers on the 2010 U.S. World Cup Team.

1. LOLE AMUSE CARDIGAN AND ICY VEST This lightweight, figure-flattering fleece is a perfect layering piece for paddle tennis and the bright color is a great winter pick-me-up. The thinner vest is a great extra layer on its own or perfect for wearing under your favorite shell, says Jolene. Vibrant Orange Cardigan: $90, Black Vest: $100, Lad & Lassie, 1115 Central Ave, Wilmette, 847-251-7570, ladandlassie.com

2. TIFOSI TORRENT SUNGLASSES These glasses change according to the light, from a pink color in low light to regular sunglasses in full sunlight. No need to change the lenses. The glasses look great and stay put. (See item 7 for retailer.)

YOU HAVE THE GEAR, NOW FIND THE WORKOUT We’ve got great ideas to keep your fitness routine fresh and fun. Let the toning begin!

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3. Garmin Forerunner 405 Christy and Jolene both love the easy-to-use 405 which accurately records your mileage, pace, and elapsed time. This GPS watch does it all. $350, Running Right, 661 Central Avenue, Highland Park, 847-432-2884, runningright.com 4. Sugoi Versa Jacket in Laguna This hightech, breathable running jacket converts to a vest by pulling off the sleeves, which are attached with magnets. It’s perfect for winter running in Chicago. $125, The Runner’s Edge, 335 Ridge Road, Wilmette and 111 E. Cook Avenue, Libertyville, 847853-8531

5. Smartwool Socks These colorful accessories will keep the active girl comfortable and stylish even on the coldest days. $13-$35, Title Nine, 816 1/2 Church Street, Evanston, 847-328-9009, titlenine.com

6. Sage Twist Pant and Commit Tank These pants are comfortable, warm and flattering on everyone. Lululemon knows how to make great pants and they look gorgeous with the tank. Jolene loves the pretty neckline and breathable, soft fabric. Pants: $98, Tank: $52, Lululemon, 2176 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-4801749 and 1622 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847-4241512, lululemon.com 7. Stella Head Lamp Jolene says this is a great gift for the hardcore cyclist who rides in all weather and in low-light situations. Keep them safe with this powerful headlamp. $130, Higher Gear, 1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, 847-256-2330 and 1898 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, 847-433-BIKE, highergearchicago.com

Lake Forest & Lake Bluff ’s Only Hot Yoga Studio

Specializing in Hot Vinyasa Flow & Baptiste Power Vinyasa

www.foreveromyoga.com 1407 Western Avenue Lake Forest, IL 60045 847-482-YOGA (9642)

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gift guide

for the romantic By Marjie Killeen

MAKE IT BETTER READER, AMY WEILAND, OF METTAWA, OWNER, THEVELVETSNOOT.COM As owner of an online luxury pet boutique and part-time day trader, Amy Weiland is single, successful and fulfilled. She loves biking, gardening, horses and dogs and has created a beautiful home that includes her two Shar Pei pooches, Ming and MooShu. Amy has all the “stuff” she needs; when it comes to gifts, it’s the thought she appreciates. When a former boyfriend handed her an unwrapped oxford shirt with the price tag still on it, the birthday gift felt so impersonal it was hard for Amy to get over it. Here’s what she has to say about these romantic gifts, designed to delight both the recipient and the giver.

1. COUPLE’S MASSAGE Soothe away holiday stress, sip a glass of bubbly and enjoy a 30-minute aromatherapy foot bath followed by a one-hour massage, performed for both of you in the same room. “Love it!” enthuses Amy. “This would make a great date night.” $160 for two, Renu Day Spa, 617 Central Ave., Deerfield, 847-940-9727, renudayspa.com

2. PICTURE GORGEOUS, GLAMOROUS YOU Enamour photos capture a woman’s unique beauty and sensuality. As a gift to a woman, it’s an empowering, pampering experience. For a man, he’ll treasure private photos of his partner. “Every guy wants a great picture of his girlfriend,” says Amy. Prices vary based on package. Enamour, Highland Park, 847-7487800, enamourphotography.com

Mention Make It Better for a 25% discount ✴ on the “Get Cozy” package when booked before 1/31/11 3. BICYCLE BUILT FOR TWO An avid cyclist, Amy appreciates the sentiment of this high performance tandem, and its practicality too. “It’s really sweet,” she says, “because he’d be telling me he wants to ride together, but doesn’t want me to do much of the work!” Trek T900 Comfort Tandem, $1130, Trek Highland Park, 1925 Skokie Highway, Highland Park, 847-433-8735, trekhp.com

Mention Make It Better for 10% off ✴ through 12/25/10 SEX AND THE SUBURBS Looking to spice up your relationship? Look no further.

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4. NIFTY NEGLIGEE SLEEPWEAR that feels great on the skin is a pleasure for both bedtime buddies. Amy sleeps in the buff, but loves to hang out in something pretty and sexy. This buttery soft, lacy chemise comes from Italy and is flattering without being skimpy. $116, Adrienne Clarisse, 531 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 847-573-8905, adrienneclarisse.com Mention Make It Better for 15% off any ✴ purchase over $150 through 1/1/11 5. BLOOMING ORCHID Cut flowers fade, but orchid plants bloom gloriously for months and can live for years. Amy babies her Cattleya orchids all year and is rewarded annually with big, showy blossoms. Send a signal that your love is here to stay with an orchid from the experts, Hausserman of Villa Park. Prices range from $17 – $47, plus delivery, 2N134 Addison Rd, Villa Park, 630-543-6855, orchidsbyhausermann.com 6. LOVE LETTERS Texts and emails are efficient, but hardly romantic. Delight your sweetie with a heartfelt note or keep a journal together to record tender moments. “I love the idea of love notes,” sighs Amy. “It’s been so long since I’ve received one.” For inspiration, check out the book “Other People’s Love Letters” by Bill Shapiro, $15, Amazon.com, Recycled leather notebook, $19 and Heart notes (8), $12, at Paper Source, Chicago, Evanston, Highland Park, 888-7273711, papersource.com

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gift guide

for the book lover

1. “MIKE AND MIKE’S RULES FOR SPORTS AND LIFE” by Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic with Andrew Chaikivsky (Hardcover, ESPN, 2010), $26

MAKE IT BETTER READER: JACKIE PILOSSOPH, AUTHOR, GLENVIEW

Jackie’s take: “Every guy I asked knew who they were.”

Jackie made her debut as a published fiction author this year with “Hook, Line and Sink Him” (Blackhawk Publishing), a romantic comedy set in Chicago. The single mother of two has been writing novels and screenplays for 10 years. She describes herself as “a romantic, a Girl Scout leader, a reader, and a Bulls fan,” among other things.

2. “OPERATION BEAUTIFUL: TRANSFORMING THE WAY YOU SEE YOURSELF ONE POST-IT NOTE AT A TIME” by Caitlin Boyle (Paperback, Gotham, 2010), $17

Every morning more than 3 million listeners tune in to Mike and Mike in the Morning on ESPN Radio to hear their hilarious back-and-forth on everything from how baseball managers should dress to fighting fair with your wife. The book captures the spirit of the show, with practical advice that will make guys laugh.

By Liz Logan

Women don’t often tell each other that they’re beautiful. Wanting to change that, blogger Caitlin Boyle started a guerrilla movement, leaving Post-it-note affirmations in public places. The book tells the stories behind the notes, of women finding self-love and fighting “fat talk.”

Jackie’s take: “ ‘Every woman feels like, ‘I’m not good, or perfect, enough,’ or ‘I need Botox.’ This book says, ‘No, you don’t.’ ” 3. “THE FAMILY BOOK” by Todd Parr (Paperback, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2010), $7 This children’s book is about all different kinds of families—families who have gone through divorce, families with adopted children, families with two mommies or two daddies. It teaches kids to be understanding of the other kids they meet and that it’s okay to be different. Jackie’s take: “My kids were glued right away.” 4. “THIS IS WHERE I LEAVE YOU” by Jonathan Tropper, Jackie’s favorite novelist (Paperback, Plume, 2010), $15

This book is a hilarious family drama and belated-coming-of-age story, involving a dysfunctional family, the Foxmans, that sits shivah together for seven days after the father’s death.

AND DON’T FORGET TO SUPPORT OUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES …

Jackie’s take: “The family is so colorful, you really care about what happens.”

THE BOOK BIN, 1151 Church St., Northbrook, 847-498-4999

5. “HOW TO TALK TO A WIDOWER: A NOVEL” (Paperback, Bantam, 2008), $15

BURKE’S BOOKS OF PARK RIDGE, 2 Prairie Ave., Park Ridge, 847-692-2300

A portrait of the modern man in crisis, this book tells the story of 29-year-old widower, Doug, who is still grieving heavily a year after his wife’s death. His turmoil results in some inappropriate and entertaining escapades.

THE BOOK MARKET, 2651 Navy Blvd., Glenview, 847-904-7304

Jackie’s take: “Another one of my favorite novels.”

THE BOOK STALL, 811 Elm St., Winnetka, 847-446-8880 BOOKS ON VERNON, 664 Vernon Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-5180

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BOOK LISTS GALORE Find recommendations on all your favorite subjects, courtesy of our local, independent book stores.

makeitbetter.net/books

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gift guide

for the one dazzled by the lights of broadway By Dorothy Andries MAKE IT BETTER READER: KIP KELLEY OF GLENVIEW Going to the theater is a vital part of life for Kip Kelley, a passion that began when the Chicago-born and bred lad was transferred to New York City a year after graduating from the University of Illinois in Chicago. He was dazzled by the bright lights of Broadway. Don’t just take his word for it—he has documentation. “Entry one in my Playbill collection is ‘The King and I,’ Oct. 26, 1952, “ says Kelley, a dapper, active gentleman who lived for decades in Northfield and is now a resident of Glenview. And that collection? To date, more than 4,400 programs! One of Kelley’s passions is Shakespeare – in fact, he proposed to his late wife Sherry at the Stratford Festival in Canada after a 1961 performance of “Love’s Labour’s Lost.” Today, in Chicago, his tastes run from shows at neighborhood and suburban theaters to grand opera at the Lyric Opera, where he is a member of the Lyric Guild and gives lectures to community groups on upcoming performances.

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1. LIGHT OPERA WORKS SUMMER CAMP Are your little ones Broadway material? Light Opera Works in Evanston operates four one-week sessions of its Musical Theater Summer Workshop for children ages 8 to 15, with a different musical each week. Tuition is $350 per session. For the 2011 musicals, visit lightoperaworks.com 2. LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO GIFTS Kelley approves of glamorous holiday gifts that support the Lyric, like a pair of opera glasses in black with gold trim and 3-power magnification for $45. Lyric’s 34-inch square silk scarf, priced at $125, features architectural detail from the Civic Opera House. lyricopera.org/operashop

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3. RAVINIA FESTIVAL A bargain is always in season, and the Ravinia Festival is selling lawn passes for 10 classical music concerts in 2011 for just $70 or $7 each, less than the price of a movie. shop.ravinia.org 4. CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE Hey kids, show your folks they raised you right. Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier has set aside tickets for every performance for just $20 each for purchase by students and young professionals 35 and younger. Anyone in that age category can buy two $20 seats per production. Go to chicagoshakes.com and click on CST for $20 5. STRATFORD FESTIVAL IN CANADA Given Kelley’s attachment to Stratford, he’s in favor of a present that combines an international vacation with theater in Ontario, Canada. From April to November the Stratford Shakespeare Festival presents ten productions including “Twelfth Night,” “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” “Titus Andronicus” and “Richard III.” Visit stratfordfestival.ca or call 800-567-1600

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6. STAY-AT-HOME SHAKESPEARE For the Shakespeare fan who can’t get to the theater, search for some of the beautiful DVDs of films based on the Bard’s plays. Kenneth Branagh’s “Henry V” rivals Olivier’s. For the ultimate in tragic love, buy Franco Zeffirelli’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Prices vary, amazon.com

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gift guide 2010

what’s in the box?

kids

10 years and under

Need ideas for everyone on your list? These local retailers have the gifts that will get a “wow.”

LITTLE JUMPERS TRAMPOLINE Jump for fun and exercise, holds up to 80lbs, $100. Beanstalk (Highland Park), beanstalkhp.com, 847-432-8300

PERSONALIZED WINTER HATS Knit hat w/ ear flaps & tie, $46. Penny’s From Heaven (Lake Forest), 847-735-7375 & (Winnetka), 847-446-5453, pennyslakeforest.com

SWIMMING LESSONS Give the gift that could save a life someday, $25+. Foss Swim School (Highland Park), fossswimschool.com, 847-266-FOSS

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UGG BAILEY BUTTON BOOTS Tall and short, all colors, for all ages, $90+. Fit To Be Tied (Northfield), 847-441-4443 fittobetiedshoes.com

MAKE A MESSTERPIECE GIFT CARD Messes, splats, drips & drops for kids ages 0-12. Make A Messterpiece (Glenview), makeamessterpiece.com, 847-730-5275

GIFT CERTIFICATE Family-friendly coffeehouse/children’s play museum. Great for 1st birthdays! $25 & up. Nibbles’ Play Cafe (Wheeling), nibblesplaycafe.com, 847-229-0400

PERSONALIZED SWEATERS Assorted colors and styles, $69+. Creme de la Creme (Winnetka), 847-446-2228, cremegifts.com

HOLIDAY ADOPT AN ANIMAL What to get the person who has everything! $35-$46. Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago), lpzoo.org , 312-742-2322

BUBBER Ages 3 to 103! Lightest modeling clay ever made. Never dries out! $12.99. Children’s Gift Shop (Northfield), childrensgiftshop.com, 847-441-5970

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CONSTRUCTIVE EATING UTENSILS & PLATE Set the blueprint for good eating! Set of three utensils $19, plate $15. Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony (Evanston), maya-tony.com, 847-866-6292

FLOAT GLASSES Adult styling designed for today’s kids and teens, $169. Eye Q Optique (Buffalo Grove), eyeqoptique.com , 847-947-8875

SCHOENHUT PIANOS Hand-designed musical instruments made for children, $299. Beanstalk (Highland Park), beanstalkhp.com, 847-432-8300

FLOOR STANDING PUPPET THEATRE Sturdy wooden construction, easily assembled, ages 3+, $80. Hip Hip Hooray (Northbrook), 847-272-7459

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gift guide 2010

what’s in the box?

tweens & teens

Need ideas for everyone on your list? These local retailers have the gifts that will get a “wow.”

MONOGRAMMED CANVAS LUGGAGE Pick canvas color & trim, $62+. Hip Hip Hooray (Fun Things For Kids) (Northbrook), 847-272-7459

UGG COQUETTE Ugg slipper in 5 great colors, $99.99. The Bootery, (Highland Park), 847-433-1911 & (Lake Geneva), 262-348-1911, thebootery.com

MINNETONKA FRINGED BOOTS The “It Boot”. All colors, all sizes, $69. Fit To Be Tied (Northfield), 847-441-4443 fittobetiedshoes.com

A SEMESTER OF MUSIC LESSONS The best gifts are experiences! $999. North Shore School of Rock (Winnetka), 847-571-3336

CRICKET NOTEBOOK/IPAD STAND, Elevates screen up to 9” to help avoid neck strain caused by “laptop slouch”, $50. Relax The Back, 866-907-2225

SOCK MONKEY HAT Cozy fleece-lined hat, made in Nepal (fair trade), $27. Lad & Lassie Shop (Wilmette), 847-251-7570, ladandlassie.com

POPOCHOS Water resistant watches with changeable covers! $14.99+. Childrens Gift Shop (Northfield), childrensgiftshop.com, 847-441-5970

MissFIT TEEN Empowering teens, ages 13 to 18, to make healthy lifelong nutritional and fitness choices. MissFIT Complete, missfitcomplete.com, 847-775-0076

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SNACK GIFT BOX Perfect for the college student, satisfy those midnight munchies! $39. Parkview Gourmet (Libertyville), parkviewgourmet.com, 847-549-0663

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gift guide 2010

what’s in the box? pets

THE BEST PET BED EVER! Dog duvet +your stuff=happy dog, happy home. $36-$68. The Soap Box Shop (Highland Park), thesoapboxshop.com, 847-681-0267

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DOGGLES Keep your dog’s eyes safe, healthy, and looking good! Starting at $24.99. Eye Q Optique (Buffalo Grove), eyeqoptique.com , 847-947-8875

HOLIDAY DISCOUNT $20 off overnight stay of three nights or more. (In date before 12/31) Wiggly Tails (Northbrook), wigglytails.com, 847-272-4141

KATIE PUFF PET PED Luxurious comfort for your 4-legged family member, $45.99 -$89.99. Noah’s Ark Pet Supply (Winnetka), noahsarkwinnetka.com, 847-784-0125

CANINE SWIM LESSONS Buy one get one FREE! $25 ($50 value). Carriage Hill Kennels (Glenview), carriagehillkennels.com, 847-724-0270

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gift guide 2010

what’s in the box?

just for her

Need ideas for everyone on your list? These local retailers have the gifts that will get a “wow.”

UGG Bailey Button Triplet, comes in 5 great colors! $179.99. The Bootery, thebootery.com, 847-433-1911 (Highland Park) and 262-348-1911 (Lake Geneva)

JULISKA Clarissa perfume bottle. A signed original that perfectly showcases magical glass. $125. Adesso (Highland Park), 847-433-8525, info@shopadesso.com

MAKEUP BRUSHES & FREE CASE Made of goat, pony & sable hairs, specially priced at $160. Rosemary Shugar (Winnetka), rosemaryshugar.com, 847-446-0490

KITCHEN CENTRIC by Mick De Giulio, a new spin on the kitchen design book that will inspire, $65. de Giulio Kitchen Design (Wilmette), degiulio.org, 847-256-8833

MONOGRAM NECKLACE Starting at $218. Call for info. Valentina (Winnetka) 847-446-5480, Penny’s From Heaven (Lake Forest) 847-735-7375

ELLA WRAP Reusable fabric gift wrap, $5.99-$32.99. ellaWrap (Lake Bluff), ellawrap.com, 847-482-0304

KAI FRAGRANCE & BODY PRODUCTS Stop in for a complimentary sample, $24+. Fresh Ideas Clothing Company (Northfield), freshideasclothingcompany.org, 847-446-3774

FRANCISCA EVENING BAG Hand crocheted with over 500 post-consumer recycled pop-tops, $88. Notice (Highland Park), notice-this.com, 847-432-1212

FAUX FUR VESTS Whether real or faux, fur is always fab! Choose from many different styles, starting at $275. Avenue Fashions (Lincolnwood), 847-676-3368

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gift guide 2010

TUSCAN HANDPAINTED UNTENSIL HOLDER Save 20% on our finest Italian Ceramics! $196. Artistica (Winnetka), artistica.com, 847-446-2916

MissFIT COMPLETE In-home services: personal & group training, nutrition, & massage. Price varies. MissFIT Complete, missfitcomplete.com, 847-775-0076

BODY WRAPS Soothing body comfort. Heat or freeze. $40. Therapeutic Kneads (Highland Park), WeKneadYou.com, 847-266-0131

IOION The original trendsetting timepiece, treated with tourmaline! $22. Quintessence (Northbrook), 847-498-5544

PERSONALIZED CHARM NECKLACES Edgy yet classic sterling necklaces, $53 and up. Material Possessions (Winnetka), materialpossessions.com, 847-446-8840

WINE LOVER’S COLLECTION Vinturi wine aerator, wine bottle board, wine label journal, $84.99. The Purple Artichoke, mypurpleartichoke.com, 877-644-2046

CUPCAKES Assorted gourmet cupcakes starting at $2 each. Mini cupcakes starting at $1.25 each. Baker Boys (Highland Park), 847-433-0430

DOCTOR RITER’S REAL EASE Feel tension and stress evaporate with this head, neck & shoulder relaxer, $40. Relax The Back, 866-907-2225

FROGGY’S 5 course dinner for two and champagne and dessert is on us! $100. Froggy’s (Highwood), 847-433-7080, frenchrestaurantschicagocatering.com

VELVET PHOTO ALBUM Archival quality, handmade at an artisan bindary, $30-150. Madden Home (Deerfield), maddenhome.com, 847-444-0642

SCARVES BY RICO A beautiful blend of traditional knitting with modern designs, hand-knit, $55. Indigo (Highland Park), 847-432-4885

SALSA AL CARBON All ingredients are grilled to perfection, no preservatives. $5.99. That Little Mexican Cafe (Chicago, Evanston & Highland Park), tlmcafe.com

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gift guide 2010

CAKE PLATTER & 4-TIER SERVING TRAY Hand-hammered metal, $130+. Kenzy Gifts & Decor (Highland Park), kenzydecor.com, 847-780-4177

TRELISE COOPER Skirt $750, Jacket $840. Davis Miller (Winnetka), davismiller.com, 847-501-5511

WOMEN’S GARMIN FORERUNNER 110 GPS heart rate monitor, $250. The Runner’s Edge (Wilmette, Libertyville, Chicago), 847-853-8531

LEATHER ACCESSORIES BY LODIS, Smart phone case, wallet, clutch wallet, iPad case. $48-132. Vibrato (Wilmette & Glenview), vibratoboutique.com, 847-853-1434

CHOCOLATES JEWELRY BOX Filled with fresh Belgian chocolates, $54.95 lg, $24.95 sm. Leonidas (Chicago & Wilmette), 312-9292323 and 847-256-5250, leonidas-usa.com

ORIGINAL MEXICAN ARTWORK From collectibles to ceramics, $1 and up. That Little Mexican Cafe (Highland Park), tlmcafe.com

OUTFIT Cashmere sweater by Torn ($275), Cami by Nikibiki ($12), Necklace by Karen Weiss ($98). Illusions By Jill (Lincolnshire), 847-255-7770, illusionsbyjill.com

CORALIA LEETS EARRINGS The season’s best gift! $158. Peachtree Place (Northfield), peachtreeplaceonline.com, 847-441-7585

QUATTROMED II MASSAGE CUSHION Like having a portable massage chair! $329. Relax The Back, 866-907-2225

BELLA’S DAY SPA GIFT CARD Give them a gift of relaxation and pampering and they will love you forever. Bella’s Day Spa (Winnetka), bellas-dayspa.com, 847-501-2910

EAT WELL, MOVE WELL, THINK WELL PROGRAM Year long program,$199 kit, $99/mo. North Shore Pro-Active Health (Libertyville), drleasure.com, 847-362-4476

ITALIAN LEATHER WALLET Multi-color wallet with pen, $125. Raven & Dove Jewelry, Gifts, & Antiques (Wilmette), discoverwilmette.com, 847-251-9550

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gift guide 2010

GIFT CARD ($25+ up) Olivia’s Past is a trendy, upscale women’s boutique selling apparel, jewelry, accessories and shoes. Olivia’s Past (Long Grove), 847-913-1988

OLD ST. NICK PLATES by Vietri. Handpainted terra bianca from Tuscany. $152 (set of 4), $38 indiv. Dinner At Eight (Wilmette), dinnerateight.net, 847-676-3368

PAINTER FOR A DAY Gift certificates in $100 increments from Hester Painting & Decorating, hesterdecorating.com, 847-677-5130

STEPHANIE JOHNSON AVA POUCH This cutie is perfect for your phone,mints and lipstick, $34. Posh Essentials (Highland Park), shoppingposh.com, 847-945-POSH

BRACELET Cable & sterling silver buckle design bracelet w/ black diamonds, two styles, $120. TDC Jewelry (Buffalo Grove), tdcjewelry.com, 847-913-5531

CASHMERE RUFFLE WRAPS Available in 6 colors and generously sized, $350. Creme de la Creme (Winnetka), cremegifts.com, 847-446-2228

BLEEDING HEART PIN Nature-inspired handcrafted bronze jewelry. Made in U.S.A., $118. Trillium (Long Grove), 847-883-8867 trilliumlonggrove.com,

ECLECTIC CLOCKS BY BOSS BROWN ART Artisan Shop & Gallery (Wilmette), 847-251-3775

UNIQUE GIFTS Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, spices, specialty teas, classes & special events. 606 N. Milwaukee, Libertyville, ootogo.com, 224-433-6629

THE SPACE PEN Whether you’re up in space or underwater. $32 (bullet), $36 (grid pens). Stationery Station (Highland Park), stationerystation.com, 847-432-3044

UNLIMITED MONTHLY PASS All the yoga your body, mind and spirit desire. $190. Breathe...A Yoga Oasis (Glencoe), breatheyogaglencoe.net, 847-786-4211

IC! BERLIN SUNGLASSES Flexible, feather-light sunglasses and frames, $425. Eye Q Optique (Buffalo Grove), eyeqoptique.com , 847-947-8875

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gift guide 2010

what’s in the box?

just for him

Need ideas for everyone on your list? These local retailers have the gifts that will get a “wow.”

COLLEGIATE GLASSWARE Officially licensed martini, wine, pilsner & shot glasses, $12-$25. University Avenue (Lincolnshire), shopuave.com, 847-419-0999

REBECCA MOSS PENS Designer rollerball and fountain pens, $25-$225. Cigars & More (Long Grove), cigarsandmore.com, 847-883-9998

LARGE BIG GREEN EGG WITH NEST & MATE World’s best grill/smoker, $939. The Backyard Barbecue Store (Wilmette), backyardbbqstore.com, 847-251-2272

NEW BALANCE 1000 Stay warm & dry in this lightweight all-weather boot, $99.99. New Balance North Shore (Highland Park), nbnorthshore.com, 847-266-8323

HEATHER MOORE SILVER AND GOLD CUFFLINKS Starting at $315. Garfinkles Fine Jewelry (Highland Park), garfinklesgems.com, 847-433-8877

THE WORKS OF SHAKESPEARE Leather set complete in 3 volumes. Published in London, 1855. $750. Titles, Inc. Rare Books (Highland Park), 847-432-3690

FAR INFRARED HEALING BACK WRAP Delivers heat deep into the muscles and joints. Cordless and portable, starting at $130. Relax The Back, 866-907-2225

NOVUS ZERO GRAVITY RECLINER Recline in any position for zero gravity support! Starts at $1,395. Relax The Back, 866-907-2225

MICKEY FINN’S AMBER ALE Available at local grocers or Mickey Finn’s Brewery (Libertyville), $8.99/6pk, mickeyfinnsbrewery.com, 847-812-8348

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gift guide 2010

BARTON PERREIRA Bringing you chic, masculine style. $450. Eye Q Optique (Buffalo Grove), eyeqoptique.com , 847-947-8875

HOLIDAY GOURMET GIFT PACKAGE Assorted gourmet cookies, $25-$63.99. Cookies By Joey (Wheeling), cookiesbyjoey.com, 847-229-8913

MICHAEL ARAM Olive branch martini shaker with holster. The perfect piece for the perfect bar, $99. Adesso (Highland Park), info@shopadesso.com, 847-433-8525

XIKAR CARBON FIBER COLLECTION Cigar case, lighter, cigar cutter, $89.99$99.99. Cigars & More (Long Grove), cigarsandmore.com, 847-883-9998

GIFT CARD The perfect gift! The style & selection of the North Shore’s premier men’s store. Avant For Men (Highland Park), avantformen.com, 847-681-1100

PYTHON 1401 REMOTE START SYSTEM Start your engine with the push of a button. Price includes install, $350. Autosonics (Highland Park), autosonics.net, 847-831-1300

HANGUPS INVERSION TABLE Decompress your spine and relieve shoulder tension & back pain, $459. Relax The Back, visit relaxtheback.com for locations.

SPERRY TOPSIDER WINTER FLEECE ORIGINAL In tan & brown suede, $99.99. The Bootery, thebootery.com, 847-433-1911 (Highland Park) & 262-348-1911 (Lake Geneva)

SUGOI BLUE NEO JACKET Provides protection against all the elements for winter running. The Runner’s Edge (Wilmette, Libertyville, Chicago), 847-853-8531

KICK-OFF YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING! Beginning on Black Friday, makeitbetter.net will feature daily deals and special discounts exclusively for our readers.

makeitbetter.net ORBITA WATCHWINDERS Great gift for those who own an automatic watch, $295. Smart Jewelers (Lincolnwood), smartjewelers.com, 847-673-6000

special advertising section

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dining

take that, top chef: sprout is in bloom By Julie Chernoff

HOT NEW RESTAURANTS Julie Chernoff’s got the scoop on local dining. Find her pithy reviews every week at

makeitbetter.net/dining

DECEMBER 2010

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hen Chicago chef Dale Levitski (La Tache, Trio Atelier) came in second to the odious (though admittedly talented) Hung Huynh during Top Chef’s third season, I felt he was robbed. I waited anxiously for his new restaurant to open. And I waited. Happily, the job at Sprout came along, and Levitski has been cooking there to great acclaim ever since. A cozy place off Fullerton, it’s well worth a drive. No prices and no explanations on the menu could make for a confusing start; Fortunately, the excellent server explains that it’s a $60 Prix Fixe menu with many choices in starters, entrees and desserts. Aha!And so, on to the food: A perfectly seared scallop atop a red onion and fennel mélange, dotted with Green City Market grapes and micro greens, atop a jammy sauce of verjus rouge. Dale’s “gourmet fish stick,” skate dipped in a panko batter and sauteed, served over nasturtium leaves, tiny tomatoes, legumes, and a giardiniera aioli. Those were just the starters, folks. I don’t want to shortchange the entrees, which were delicious, especially the medium rare skirt steak with braised octopus, caperberries and cilantro vinaigrette, or the evening’s vegetarian dish, truffled gnocchi with cauliflower puree, smoked almonds, pea shoots and Parmesan shavings. Wow. Four years ago, we ate at Levitski’s Trio Atelier in Evanston, and on the menu was a grilled cheese sandwich that I have been

thinking about ever since—really. And when the cheese course came to the table at Sprout, there it was again. I think I might have lost consciousness briefly. This rendition was aged white Cheddar with roasted tomatoes and crusty bread. The cheese gets on the outside as well and forms a delectable crust of its own. Served with tapenade Sprout mustard for dip1417 W. Fullerton Ave. ping (or licking Chicago off your fingers), it 773-348-0706 sproutrestaurant.com was everything to me. This is starting to sound a little pornographic… on to desserts. More yumminess. Berries accompanied by pattes de nonne (little sugared doughnuts, but the actual translation is “nun farts”!), fresh basil and Black Dog’s goat cheese gelato were impossible to pass up. The real stunner, though, is the Corn dessert, a truffled brioche bread pudding studded with sweet corn, topped with sweet corn gelato, macademia nuts, caramel, truffle crème anglaise and popcorn. The restaurant menu changes seasonally, but whatever is on the menu will be thought provoking and delicious. In a recent conversation, I asked Levitski to describe his vision. “I don’t want anyone preaching at the table. I want to disarm people about fine dining; it should be fun. I want that to be infectious.” Mission accomplished, Chef! I can’t wait to go back.

Photos by Erik Davis

SEARED SCALLOP

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BITES | READER REVIEWS

Parmesean-Crusted Tilapia at Prairie Grass Cafe

601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook 847-205-4433 | prairiegrasscafe.com Updated American comfort food with style. Brunch is fantastic—the crepes and the Benedicts especially–and the hamburger is justly famous, but there’s so much more. Love the Smoked Salmon Pizza ($12), the ParmesanCrusted Tilapia served over Creamed Spinach ($20), any homemade sausage (pray for the lamb with lentils and goat cheese!) and the Ancho-Marinated Skirt Steak with grilled onions and swiss chard ($23). The “Peeky Toe” Crabcake with avocado, grapefruit and cucumber salad ($14) is gorgeous. Order the Warm Chocolate “Muk Muk” Cake ($7.50) during dinner; they bake it to order. And the cocktails? Don’t get me started. —Julie Chernoff

The Forge Club 634 Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills 847-634-5590 | forgeclub.com “Mad Men” has nothing on The Forge, a throwback to an era when waiters and hosts greeted you by name. A private club recently gone public, it still has that members-only feel. Their specialties are 1960s classics like Steak Diane, Dover Sole, Lamb Chops, and Prime Rib.

FIND A RESTAURANT Search for restaurants by cuisine, town, price point and other factors, using our comprehensive restaurant guide.

makeitbetter.net/dining

There’s an extensive wine list but you can BYOB (for a corkage fee). The Forge is terrific for special occasions, from Mother’s Day Brunch to Christmas with Santa and Easter with the Bunny. Enjoy tunes on the grand piano; don’t be surprised to see patrons dance among the tables. They have wine tastings and a weekly traditional family Sunday dinner...meat loaf anyone? Take a trip back in time when men were required to dress for dinner, no jeans allowed. It’s expensive so plan for that special occasion and head to the Forge. —Lynda Hakanen, Lincolnshire

Smoque 3800 N. Pulaski Rd., Chicago 773-545-RIBS | smoquebbq.com If you’re a fan of BBQ, Smoque does it up right. Baby Back and St. Louis-style ribs are the centerpieces of this cozy spot’s menu, with pulled pork and brisket filling out the main choices. The prices are more than reasonable— for $10.50, I plowed through a pulled pork platter that included tangy slaw, BBQ beans and french fries. The pork was cooked to perfection—so tender a baby could eat it. The chopped brisket, Texas Sausage and Baby Back Ribs that made up the rest of our family meal were all very well received. (That’s code for, “No, you can’t try a piece of mine, because I’m eating every last bite!) A note: This is a BYOB restaurant, which was made evident by the number of people with coolers waiting in line. So if you’d like something other than soda, bring it with you. —Kelly Konrad

Photo by Erik Davis

Prairie Grass Café

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State and Lake@The Wit Hotel 201 N. State St., Chicago 312-239-9400 | stateandlakechicago.com Being a hotel restaurant means that State and Lake is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But S&L is the new kind of hotel restaurant–the kind that’s really good! Inventive cocktails, great burgers, Truffled Mac and Cheese (OMG!) and other fabulous comfort foods abound. We loved the Potsticker Salad ($11) and the Southwestern Chopped with BBQ shrimp and cilantro-cumin dressing ($12). If you like the oink, their pork chop is something special. And the mini duck tacos are adorable. A great stop on your way to a show downtown. —Julie Chernoff

Lemongrass Thai Restaurant

Photo by Erik Davis

566 Chestnut St., Winnetka 847-501-5699 | lemongrasswinnetka.com In a tiny storefront in the Laundry Mall, this yummy Thai restaurant does a great take-out business, but the cleanly designed dining room makes it a great choice when you don’t want to schlep and clean up. We recommend Crab Wontons ($5.95), Chive Dumplings ($5.95), and Veggie Egg Rolls ($3.25) as starters. For main courses, the Duck Curry ($13.95) was creamy and delicious, with a nice spice (they’ll go very spicy if you ask). Love the Basil Chicken, also available with tofu ($9.25). Our favorite salads were the Som Tom ($7.50), with spicy shredded papaya, and the Cucumber Salad ($4.95). Brown rice is offered and it’s delicious and nutty. —Laura Hine continued on page 99

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The Valley Lodge 2132 Waukegan Ave., Glenview 847-724-7440 This is an all-time favorite of thirty years, and I’ve never been disappointed. It’s a Greek restaurant where the owners are always on site and the food is always perfect. A gyros plate with just-crisp-enough pita bread and fries is as delicious as their baby lamb chops, which I would put up against any five-star restaurant in the city. A cozy fire keeps it toasty in the winter. The service is efficient and friendly, and the place is busy with couples and families alike. If you want a casual, friendly place to eat in Glenview where you can count on excellent food and great drinks, the Valley Lodge is it.

Steve Jenkins of Glenview enjoying his BBQ ribs.

—Lynda Hakanen

Photo by Erik Davis

Yard House 1880 Tower Dr., Glenview 847-729-9273 | yardhouse.com This huge place has just about any appetizer you might want to order, from sliders to chicken nachos, Shanghai BBQ ribs to lettuce wraps (chicken, shrimp or tofu and mushroom). The salad menu is enormous, with tons of options,

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and they’ve got an entire section of the menu devoted to vegetarian items made with gardein, a soy and grain product. Natch, there are burgers and pizza galore, as well as grown-up entrees like Porcini-Crusted Halibut and Spicy Jambalaya. You could eat here every meal for a week and never repeat yourself. The noise level can be daunting, but you’ll never go hungry.

DINE & EARN Please send us your restaurant comments. You win a $25 gift certificate to one of our restaurant advertising partners if we publish yours.

makeitbetter.net/dining

—Julie Chernoff

11/3/10 10:08 AM

kids make it better Children at Old Orchard Mall offered their Make It Better perspective, in words & drawings

hen I was born, I was very sick. I had heart, lung and stomach problems, and people didn’t know if I would survive. Doctors did surgery on me, putting a G-tube in me. It saved my life, along with open heart surgery and my esophagus being re-attached to my stomach. Those doctors were amazing, but so was my family. Someone was always with me, as they are still when I go to the hospital, and everywhere else. They mixed CDs for me, read to me, watched TV with me, and even slept in those uncomfortable hospital chairs. (If you’ve ever been in one, you’ll know what I mean). They go beyond what’s expected of them at all times and it’s so extraordinary. The doctors who helped me, do this every day. Can you imagine? Being an inch away from saving or killing a child every day? That’s beyond amazing. These people do their work yet they never are appreciated. I hope they are now. – Hannah Williams

Gabriel Nearb

Lauren, Lindsey and Robert Klauz B o b by

and K a

itlin Mc

Dowell

Zarinch and Zana

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Gradan

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• Interior • Exterior • Custom Finishes • Murals

847.902.9911 | paintplusmoreinc.com

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make a difference

Give the gift of warmth with the 2nd annual

W A R M I N G

hearts hands

Please join Make It Better.net and help give new hats, coats, gloves and scarves to over 400 men, women and children through the six agencies listed below. You can help by donating online at makeitbetter.net/warming-hearts or by bringing new items to the three locations listed below. MANO A MANO Waukegan/ Round Lake Empowering immigrant and underserved families of Lake County, IL to become full participants in American life.  manoamanofamilyresourcecenter.org

MARY LOU’S PLACE/YWCA Evanston Sheltering women and children fleeing violence in their homes, with a crisis line and emergency intervention services.  ywca.org

LAKE COUNTY HAVEN Libertyville The Lake County Haven provides shelter and life-saving services to homeless women and children. The Haven also provides the guidance and support necessary so that its clients will never be homeless again.  lakecountyhaven.org

“Thanks so much for the winter coats. It means a lot. I was so cold and had to use many sweatshirts under a jacket. I prayed. You were my answer. Thanks again.” – S., Lake County Haven Shelter

2010 drop off sites for new gloves, scarves, & hats MAKE IT BETTER 1150 Wilmette Ave., Suite G Wilmette, IL 60091 847-256-4642

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THE VOLUNTEER CENTER OF N.E. METROPOLITAN CHICAGO 520 Glendale Ave., Suite 3B Winnetka, IL 60093 847-441-7665

MANO A MANO 6 E. Main St. Round Lake Park, IL 60073 847-201-1521

THE HARBOUR Park Ridge Providing housing to homeless, runaway and abused teen girls in the North and Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  theharbour.org

WINGS (WOMEN IN NEED GROWING STRONGER) Palatine Delivering comprehensive services to homeless and abused women and children in the north and northwest suburbs.  wingsprogram.com

Photo courtesy Lana Gwinn & Elaine Matsushita

FAMILY NETWORK Highland Park Serving the families of Highland Park, Highwood and surrounding communities including: early childhood/ parent programming and after school and Spanish-based services.  familynetworkcenter.org

DECEMBER 2010

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GET BACK IN YOUR

SKINNY J

with PureLipo, an alternative to traditional liposuction minimal down time safe affordable

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PureLipo Bodysculpture is a minimally invasive technique that sculpts the body into a more desirable form by removing areas of unwanted fat using small syringes and local anesthesia. The trained physician is able to artistically sculpt the body into a new shape using delicate instruments. Once removed, the fat cells do not grow back and the new shape is permanent as long as excess weight is not gained. The entire procedure is often done in two hours with downtime of one or two days. The effect is dramatic, as seen in the before and after photos on www.purelipo.com.

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM LOSS OF LIBIDO, HOT FLASHES, LACK OF ENERGY, WEIGHT GAIN, DEPRESSION OR PMS? These are all related to hormonal imbalances, which often effect women at all ages from teens to menopause. After training with Dr. Erika Schwartz, the leading expert in bioidentical hormone therapy, Dr. Perlis is actively seeing patients for hormonal imbalances. Please call for an appointment. These are exciting times for women, new beginnings, healthy lifestyles and positive changes. Let’s start on the right track to improve your health and well-being.

Dr. Cheryl Perlis is the first physician to offer PureLipo in the state of Illinois. She was trained by Dr. Sant Antonio who developed this procedure. To find out more about Dr. Perlis and PureLipo Bodysculpture, visit Perlis Wellness Center.

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make a difference

give time

give things

TEEN-AIDERS 736 N. Western Ave., #325, Lake Forest | 847-877-3936 | teen-aiders.org GIVE TIME: Teen-Aiders is looking for adults in the Lake County area who can act as mentors to high school students. The students come from multiple schools in the area and plan fundraisers and participate in shelter activities to help homeless children in Lake County. TeenAiders provides its volunteers the opportunity to work with numerous organizations throughout Lake County to help alleviate child homelessness. Contact mreiff@teen-aiders.org.

YOUTHBUILD LAKE COUNTY 3001 North Green Bay Rd., Bld. 1, 3rd Flr., North Chicago 847-473-3483 | youthbuildlakecounty.org GIVE TIME: Speakers are needed for youth training sessions on these topics: life skills (negotiation, parenting, communication, money management); leadership and citizenship; job readiness (job search skills, interviewing skills, resume writing); career days; and construction theory and practice (safety, quality, architectural concepts, blue print reading, plumbing, wiring, electrical application, masonry, rehabilitation). YBLC is education and job-training program for disadvantaged youth in Lake County. Contact Laurel Tustison 847-473-3483 or ltustison@youthbuildlakecounty.org.

BETHEL NEW LIFE 4950 W. Thomas St., Chicago | 773-473-7870 | bethelnewlife.org GIVE THINGS: African-American Barbie dolls are needed for the Bethel Christmas Store, December 18-20. The store will sell gifts—not give them away—to hard-working families in Bethel programs for roughly 75% off retail prices. African-American Barbie dolls can be purchased through Amazon or Target and mailed or dropped off at Bethel. Contact Sara Spoonheim at 773-473-7870 x146 or sspoonheim@bethelnewlife.org.

SARAH’S CIRCLE 4750 North Sheridan Rd., Ste. 220, Chicago 773-728-1991 | sarahs-circle.org GIVE THINGS: Sarah’s Circle is in need of travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, and toothpaste. More than 60 women a day depend on Sarah’s Circle for these basic necessities. Any donation, no matter how small, would be greatly appreciated. Contact Emile Dawisha at 773.728.1991, ext. 306.

SHELTER BABY SHOWER

CHILDSERV 8765 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 450, Chicago | 773-693-0300 | childserv.org GIVE TIME: Volunteers (individuals or groups) needed December 6-14 to wrap, sort, bag and tag holiday gifts collected during ChildServ’s annual Holiday Gift Giving Drive for families in Cook, Lake and DuPage counties. Volunteers are also needed to sponsor a Christmas party at a ChildServ site. Finally, ChildServ is collecting gift certificates for teens, family emergencies, and children entering our care. Contact Jennifer Collins at 773-867-7362 or jcollins@childserv.org.

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GIVE THINGS: Shelter, Inc.’s Healthy Families Program hosts a yearround baby shower. Requested items: children’s books in Spanish and English; children’s videos in English and Spanish; safety and health items (first aid kits, cabinet safety hatches, doorknob handle covers, safety plug covers, digital thermometers); and miscellaneous items for babies (3-6 piece puzzles with large peg handles, baby spoons, bath toys). Donations may be mailed or delivered. Contact Tracy Small at 847-590-6189.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE We have quick and easy ideas for giving back to your community and the greater world, every week at

makeitbetter.net/make-a-difference

Photos courtesy of ChildServ and Bethel New Life

120 W. Eastman St., Ste. 105, Arlington Heights 847-590-6189 | shelter-inc.org

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give support shop for a cause

8th Annual Winter Arts + Crafts Expo “Shop Your Cause” Night Thursday, December 2, 6-9 p.m. Evanston Art Center, Center for the Visual Arts | 2603 Sheridan Rd., Evanston | 847-475-5300 Beautiful hand-crafted items, including jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, painting, photography and mixed-media will be for sale at the 8th Annual Winter Arts + Crafts Expo. The “Shop Your Cause” night is 6-9 p.m., Thurs., Dec. 2. All proceeds benefit the exhibition, education, and outreach programs of EAC.

GLASA Women’s Auxiliary Fundraiser Sunday, December 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Merchandise Mart, Chicago | $30 per person (Includes $15 admission to the One of a Kind Show)

Save-A-Pet Adoption Center

Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association Women’s Auxiliary invites you to a One-of-a-Kind Reception at the Merchandise Mart’s Oneof-a-Kind Art Show. Spend a day browsing unique art and gifts and join us for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the GLASA reception area. GLASA promotes and supports youth and adults who have a primary physical or visual impairment as they participate in recreational, fitness and competitive sports activities.

31664 North Fairfield Rd., Grayslake | 847-740-7788 | saveapetil.org GIVE SUPPORT: Save-A-Pet is in jeopardy of closing within 3-6 months. Save-A-Pet spends over $900,000 per year to save the lives of dogs and cats—primarily on animal health care, rescue and intake, and promoting adoptions. This no-kill organization has a large facility and accepts contributions in person, via phone or online. Contact Marc Portugal, development manager, x102.

Adopt a School Program of Centre East 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, | 847-679-9501 | northshorecenter.org GIVE SUPPORT: The Adopt a School program is seeking sponsors to purchase tickets for a class or entire school to see live theater at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. For children from schools and areas with little opportunity to experience live theater, this is an incredible gift. Contact the North Shore Center for Performing Arts.

Leukemia Research Foundation Photo courtesy of Save-a-Pet

3520 Lake Ave., Ste. #202, Wilmette | 847-424-0600 | leukemia-research. org GIVE SUPPORT: Leukemia is the primary cause of death by disease in children, and, although commonly thought of as a childhood disease, it is diagnosed 10 times more often in adults. The Leukemia Research Foundation funds worldwide medical research into the causes and cures of blood cancers, provides patient financial assistance and offers educational and emotional support programs. Contact Cindy Kane, senior director of development, 847-424-0600 or leukemiaresearch.org.

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Friends of Atebubu Holiday Marketplace Saturday, December 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. First Presbyterian Church | 824 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield | 847-945-0560 Join the Friends of Atebubu for their Holiday Marketplace, and help the Atebubu Regional Hospital in Ghana, West Africa complete construction of a kitchen. Shop unique gifts from artisans around the world, many of them handmade, including jewelry, holiday decorations, stocking stuffers, baby gifts, handbags, scarves, purses and baked goods.

30th Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights Gift & Craft Fair December 3-5 Arlington Park Racecourse | 2200 W Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights | 847-385-7500 Shop jewelry, clothing, fashion accessories, home decor and more and benefit Lambs Farm’s mission to empower people with developmental disabilities to lead personally fulfilling lives. Fair hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. Dec. 3; 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat., Dec. 4; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., Dec. 5. Adults: $7, Children (under age 15): Free. Parking: $6. Visit holidaylightslambsfarm.org.

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Lyric Opera of Chicago Opening Night and Opera Ball Civic Opera House, Hilton Chicago, Chicago | October 1, 2010 Attendees: 3,500+ at performance, 700 at ball | $810,000 net proceeds

All Photos by Cheri Eisenberg/Lyric Opera of Chicago

Supporters of Chicago’s opera scene gathered to celebrate Opening Night’s Gala with a performance of Verdi’s Macbeth, followed by an evening of dining and dancing at the Opera Ball, all sponsored by the Women’s Board of the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Shown in photos: 1. Opening Night chairman Mimi Mitchell and Opera Ball chairman Elizabeth O’Connor Cole of Chicago. 2. Patrick & Shirley Ryan of Winnetka. Mrs. Ryan is a member of the Executive Committee of Lyric’s Board of Directors and a past president of the Women’s Board. 3. Cathy and William Osborn of Winnetka. He is chairman of Northern Trust, cosponsor of the Opera Ball; also a member of the Executive Committee of Lyric’s Board of Directors. Mrs. Osborn is a Women’s Board member. 4. Opera Ball vice chairman Karen Gray of Lake Forest and Opening Night vice chairman Trish Alden Rooney of Chicago.

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Glenkirk’s 13th Annual Benefit Brunch Ravinia Green Country Club, Riverwoods October 3, 2010 Attendees: 300 | $ 230,000 Glenkirk, an organization that offers a wide variety of recreational and residential opportunities for residents of the North Shore with developmental disabilities, recently welcomed guests at their annual brunch.

Photos courtesy of Glenkirk

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Shown in pictures: 1. Benefit Brunch Committee 2. Brunch founder, Eileen Bennin of Highland Park, with her son and Glenkirk participant Steven. 3. June and Don Fisher of Highland Park.

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Chicago Botanic Garden’s 12th Annual Harvest Ball

Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe September 25, 2010 Attendees: 500 | $375,000 The Guild of Chicago Botanic Garden hosted their annual black tie garden party as civic leaders of Chicago gathered to raise money for the Center for Teaching and Learning, which provides educational programs for teachers and youth. Through items for auction, supporters combined efforts to increase interest in the environment for children and adults alike. Shown in photos: 1. Harvest Ball Co-chairs Pim Alley of Lake Forest and Lisa Holstein of Chicago 2. Glenn and Anne Trout of Kenilworth 3. Cathy and Michael Busch of Winnetka 4. Students learning about the environment.

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Adler Planetarium Celestial Ball

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Co-chairs photo by Bob Kusel, all other benefit photos and Impact photo by Robin Carlson

make a difference

The Women’s Board of the Adler Planetarium broke fundraising records in this year’s Wondrous Worlds themed ball, inspired by NASA’s recent attempt to seek life on other planets. Guests bid on extravagant auction items to support the Board as the planetarium’s leading partner in education and serving as an inspiration in the field of space exploration. Shown in photos: 1. Mirah Seta of Lincolnwood, Cochair Cynthia Ballew of Chicago and Loli DiSanto of Winnetka 2. Co-chair Elisa Bailey and Forrest Bailey of Northfield 3. Jennifer and Alec Litowits of Glencoe 4. Girls Technology Camp at the Adler Planetarium

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All photos courtesy of the Evanston Community Foundation

Adler Planetarium, Chicago September 11, 2010 Attendees: 500+ | $1 million+

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After School Matters 8th Annual Gala McCormick Place West, Chicago September 15, 2010 Attendees: 2,000 | $3.5 million+ First Lady of Chicago, Maggie Daley, chaired this gala event to benefit the After School Matters program, which provides after-school activities for teens in various fields. The program caters directly to Chicago teens in an attempt to increase graduation rates and provide a positive environment for them to prepare for their future through experiential learning.

3 All photos courtesy of After School Matters

Shown in photos: 1. Tim Maloney of Bank of America, a gala sponsor, with his wife, Sharie. The couple live in Lake Forest. 2. Maggie Daley, Chicago’s first lady and After School Matters founder and chair, with AT&T Illinois President Paul LaSchiazza of Glencoe and his wife, Cynthia. AT&T Illinois was an event sponsor. 3. Teens from across the city dazzled supporters with their talents in the gala performance.

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Children’s Home + Aid Woman’s Board Gala Four Seasons Hotel, Chicago September 10, 2010 Attendees: 320 | $500,000 Children’s Home + Aid was founded by a group of women committed to improving the lives of neglected and abused children. The importance of the original mission remains as Justice Anne M. Burke was honored for her career in public service and her representation of children’s advocates as the recipient of Pauline K. Palmer award.

Photos courtesy of Children’s Home + Aid

Shown in photos: 1.Debra and Martin Back of Winnetka 2. Attorney General Lisa Madigan, CoChair Heather Kotlarz of Lake Forest and Allison Rosati of Channel 5 3. Allison Rosati, Justice Anne M. Burke and the Honorable Corinne Wood of Lake Forest 4. Youngsters of Children’s Home + Aid playing and learning at the Freidheim Center

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Martin Fund Benefit Evanston Township High School, Evanston September 11, 2010 Attendees: 75+

Shown in photos: 1. Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl, Hecky Powell, Denise Martin, Joe Martin, Jr., and former Evanston Mayor Lorraine Morton. 2. An Evanston School Children’s Clothing Association (ESCCA) volunteer fits a student with winter boots, purchased with an Evanston Community Foundation grant supported by the Joe “Butch” Martin Fund.

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All photos courtesy of the Adler Planetarium

Supporters gathered to benefit the fund endowed in Joe “Butch” Martin’s memory, an Evanston resident and Administrator of Buildings and Grounds at ETHS. His memory lives on with the Real M.M.E.N. (Men Meeting Evanston’s Needs) Award given this year to both Hecky Powell and James Fuller for their dedication to philanthropy and local non-profit organizations.

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17th Annual Saint Francis Associates Benefit Navy Pier, Chicago | August 24, 2010 Attendees: 100 | $32,680 Guests and supporters of St. Francis Hospital set sail on the Chicago River to raise funds for food and travel vouchers for low-income mothers whose babies require lengthy hospitalizations, and for childcare products for families with new babies.

Photos courtesy of Saint Francis Hospital

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Shown in pictures: 1. Saint Francis Hospital Associates Chair Jenny Printen of Wilmette, Colby Vargas and Tracy Printen Vargas of Northbrook. 2. Chair of the OB/GYN department Dr. John Knaus, his wife Laura and Dr. Knaus’ partner and Medical Director for the medical residency program Dr. Marko Jachtorowycz. 3. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Roberto Levi and his wife Beatriz. 4. A mother at St. Francis Hospital with her newborn.

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advertiser index Thank you for supporting our advertisers who help to bring you this magazine every month. 153 Akira Japanese Restaurant .................p. 98 Abbey Resort, The ...................................... p. 43 ABT Design Center ..................................... p. 44 Advocate Lutheran Outside General Hospital ................................ Back Cover Amazing Minds ........................................... p. 112 Art Center Highland Park, The ..................p. 78 @ Properties ................................................. p. 114 @ Properties ................................................. p. 115 @ Properties ................................................. p. 116 Autohaus on Edens ..................................... p. 11 Avant for Men ..............................................p. 77 Beanstalk ...................................................... p. 79 Bedside Manor .............................................p. 24 Bella Via Ristorante .....................................p. 95 Big Blue Swim School ................................. p. 67 Bistro Bordeaux ........................................... p. 98 Boutique Unique ..........................................p. 62 Callahan & Peters, Inc ................................ p. 47 Canvasback, The ......................................... p. 57 Caroling Party, The ..................................... p. 112 Carriage Hill Kennels .................................. p. 67 Center For Communication & Fluency Therapy ................................................. p. Children’s Memorial Hospital Foundation... p. Chroma Salon & Spa ................................... p. City Kids Dental ...........................................p. Citywoods .................................................... p. Coldwell Banker Corporation .................... p. Coldwell Banker South Winnetka ............ p. Convito Café & Market .............................. p. CrossFit Impact ........................................... p. Cy Fredrics .................................................... p. Danny Did Foundation ............................... p. Davis Miller .................................................. p. Deerfields Bakery ........................................ p. Dr. Mary Ha ..................................................p.

101 17 112 57 76 6 28 63 72 68 87 66 55 18

Inside Elizabeth Arden .................................. Front Cover E Street Denim ............................................. p. 79 Eve Alfillé Gallery ........................................ p. 25 Evanston Art Center ................................... p. 101 Evmark-Downtown Evanston ....................p. 59 Eye Q Optique ..............................................p. 85 Face Forward ................................................p. 62 Forest Bootery ............................................. p. 64 Forever Om ...................................................p. 73 Foss Swim School ........................................p. 26

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Francesca’s North ....................................... p. Fresh Ideas Clothing Co. ............................ p. Garfinkles Fine Jewelry .............................. p. Gem & I ......................................................... p. Gem & I ......................................................... p. Get Dwell ..................................................... p. Goodman Theatre ....................................... p. Gusto Italiano ...............................................p. Hasten’s Passion for Beds ..........................p. HCR Manor Care ......................................... p. Highland Park Business Alliance .............. p. Highland Park, Park District of................... p. Hearing Health Center ............................... p. Hip Hip Hooray ............................................ p. Hudson Company, The ...............................p. Image Inside and Out ................................. p. Indigo Clothing .............................................p. Irina Makkai Classical Ballet School ........ p. Irish Connoisseur ........................................ p. Jade Tasting Room ...................................... p. Jimmy’s Charhouse .....................................p. Joffrey Ballet .................................................p. Kaehler Luggage ......................................... p. Karzen Restoration ..................................... p. Kashian Bros. Flooring ................................ p. Kenilworth Union Church ......................... p. Kenzy Gifts ................................................... p. Kerrigan Plumbing .......................................p. Kitchen & Bath Mart ................................... p. Knit Happens ............................................... p. Lake Forest Academy ................................. p. Lakeside Foods ............................................ p. Lois Moore Designs .................................... p. Lynch Construction .................................... p. Madden Home .............................................p. Magic Needle ...............................................p. Make A Messterpiece ................................ p. Mario Tricoci .............................................. p. Mathanasium ............................................... p. Mattie M ....................................................... p. Metropolitan Family Services ................... p. Mitchell’s Fish Market ................................ p. Museum of Science and Industry .............p. Music Institute of Chicago .........................p. New Balance North Shore ......................... p. Notice, Accessories for Living ...................p. Olsky Jewelers .... ........................................ p.

96 63 78 65 112 112 83 55 49 81 76 97 76 25 23 112 77 79 112 99 96 110 57 23 46 24 78 87 47 35 107 98 75 19 27 112 85 7 101 75 111 97 9 40 77 77 62

Pacific Rim .................................................... p. 21 Paint Plus & More ........................................p. 101 Peapod .......................................................... p. 15 Perlis Wellness Center ............................... p. 103 Pete Miller’s Seafood & Steak ................... p. 95 Pieces Art & Artwear ................................. p. 79 Piven Theatre Workshop ........................... p. 83 Plush Beauty Spa ......................................... p. 71 Priceless ........................................................ p. 35 Pro Plowing ...................................................p. 65 Quality Leather Restoration, Inc. ..............p. 112 Quince Restaurant ...................................... p. 95 Ravinia............................................................ p. 41 Razny Jewelers ............................................ p. 3 Relax the Back ..............................................p. 95 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory ........ p. 112 Runner’s Edge, The ..................................... p. 49 Rush Dermatology ...................................... p. 70 Ruth’s Chris Steak House ........................... p. 83 Sanders Court Pediatrics ........................... p. 112 Scott Byron & Co. INC. ...............................p. 57 Shedd Aquarium ......................................... p. 5 Sheila Tully Academy of Dance ................ p. 112 Inside Shen Yun Performing Arts ................ Back Cover Simon Lin’s Asian Bistro .............................p. 98 SkinFo ............................................................ p. 67 Smart Jewelers ............................................ p. 13 Smart Jewelers ............................................ p. 39 Soben Studios .............................................. p. 76 Stilettos ......................................................... p. 67 TDC Jewelers ............................................... p. 51 Teddie Kossof Salon & Spa ........................ p. 32 Temptations ................................................. p. 66 That Little Mexican Cafe ............................p. 78 Therapeutic Kneads ....................................p. 76 Tree Classics ................................................ p. 52 Three Crowns Retirement Village ............ p. 21 TrioEvanston ................................................ p. 61 Village of Wilmette ..................................... p. 27 Village Treasure House .............................. p. 37 Vintage Nest ................................................ p. 51 Wilmette Womans’ Club ........................... p. 71 Wintrust ........................................................p. 4 York Furrier ................................................... p. 32 Zengeler Cleaners ....................................... p. 37 Zingarella Bistro & Bakery ......................... p. 51

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closing thoughts

favorite holiday moments The annual cookie exchange and the gingerbread house decorating parties. Our family helping a family in our neighborhood who really needs the help. The stolen sliver of time between the late night Christmas Eve party and the upcoming Christmas day, when it’s just us, in our jammies, cuddled near the tree, dogs at our side, sipping hot chocolate. The night we turn off all the electronics, light a fire and play Apples to Apples or Oh Heck. Our family volunteering at a local shelter. The interaction helps the clients, but also leaves a lasting impression on our children. The family holiday party with our children’s friends (who are now all grown up!) and their parents, who are our dear friends.

Photo <credit>

The Christmas Eve candlelight service at our church. The light that is cast when the candles are lit, makes for such a warm and happy feeling.

— Submitted by Mindy Fauntleroy, Karen Miller, Pam Ogborn and Joan Vesselinovitch Photo by Therese Heyek

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local treasure

yoga bereavement program offers comfort, relief

fter losing her father, Nancy Perlson of Deerfield found solace in yoga—and now she’s creating a supportive, nurturing environment for others with her yoga bereavement programs. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from students of the 6-week “Bereavement Support Group: Connecting through Yoga” programs, which she started in January 2010 at Healing Power Yoga in Highland Park. The classes combine Perlson’s training as a registered yoga teacher and licensed social worker specializing in issues of grief and loss. In honor of her accomplishments with the yoga bereavement program, Perlson is one of two recipients of the 2010 Inspiration Award from the new health and wellness magazine Spry (she was selected in a national contest from more than 500 nominees). “Loss is not something that’s always talked about, but it’s felt at a cellular level,” Perlson says. “I’ve always used yoga to deal with my own stress, and I’ve recognized the impact it can have on people who are grieving.” Before class begins, Perlson meets with each participant to listen to his or her story and prepare for what might come up NAMASTE TODAY Find the local yoga studio that fits your taste, fitness level and budget, with the help of our Better List.

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during the yoga practice. The class uses gentle asana (physical poses), pranyama (breath), and meditation to begin to heal the mind-body connection, making people feel less fragmented and isolated. The group environment is intended to be supportive and nurturing. At the end of each two-hour session, there’s time for journaling and brief sharing as a group. It’s sharing, not comparing, Perlson emphasizes. The course is about each person’s individual experience of grief, so there’s no specific time frame during which people should participate. The programs are open to “anyone who is stirred” by grief or loss, she says. People have traveled from up to two hours away to attend the classes. Program evaluations at the end of the course reveal what people found: “You got me out of the house— reminding me it’s okay to live.” “I felt more unstuck. I am beginning to feel like I can let go and heal.” “The deeper sense of peace—a place I didn’t really know was possible for me.” And each person’s experience is different. “I have had people who have gone from one place to another in 6 weeks, and others who have just found a calm place,” Perlson says. And Perlson knows about grief from her own life. When her two children were young, she experienced her first traumatic loss: her father’s suicide. “A bomb exploded in our family,” she remembers. She joined a support group though Catholic Charities’ Loving Outreach for Survivors of Suicide Programs (LOSS), and the experience inspired her to pursue a master’s in social work and develop ex-

Nancy Perlson, Deerfield

pertise in the area of suicide support. She’s now a facilitator of the LOSS groups. “If I could move through it, maybe I could inspire others to move through it,” she recalls thinking. Perlson works as an Outreach and Education Facilitator for Willow House, a nonprofit agency that provides support services to families that have experienced the death of a parent or child. She developed the organization’s Survivors of Suicide Support Program. She also works as a speaker and outreach volunteer with the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention and is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists. She plans to create more yoga bereavement groups and possibly yoga groups targeting other losses, such as divorce. “The reality is that loss is a lifelong process,” she says. For more information about the yoga bereavement program, contact Nancy Perlson at 847-445-3388 or email nbperl@

Photo by Erik Davis

By Liz Logan

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