Make It Better July 2013

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north shore — family, community and you

DIGITAL EDITION

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THE PLACE EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT

What’s got everyone talking? ROSEMONT! With world-class concerts and theater, great dining and hotels, sporting events and family activities, the fun never ends. Our newest destination is the MB Financial Park at Rosemont entertainment district – with fantastic food, live music, comedy and more. Opening this August, Fashion Outlets of Chicago takes luxury shopping to a whole new dimension. Plan a day, an evening out or a whole weekend and see what everyone is buzzing about!

rosemont.com

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contents J U LY 2 0 1 3

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 8

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32

on our cover

family

Callan Harre of Winnetka Photo © Laura Templin

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Unplugged

By Julie Chernoff, Kelly Konrad and Lindsay Roseman 5 Sports Your Kids Should Try

By Christy Coughlin Milwaukee: Suds City Is Some City

By Kelly Konrad Park Place

By Tate Gunnerson How to Wear Printed Pants

By Evangeline Politis Mariel Hemingway: Running From Crazy, Running Toward Nature

By Mindy Fauntleroy

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Two-Wheel Tours

By Kelly Konrad

dining and entertainment

features

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Sienna Tavern

By Julie Chernoff

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founder’s letter

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new in the northern suburbs

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recommended events

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events listing

Dining Al Fresco

By Julie Chernoff

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make it better column

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music by val

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Katie Chang

By Lindsay Roseman

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give time, give things, give support

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closing thoughts

Tales for Teens

By Kelly Konrad

make a difference

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in every issue

Local Treasure: Kate Attea

By Susan B. Noyes Better Makers and Their Impact

UPDATE: In last month’s issue, our “New in the Northern Suburbs” section announced the opening of Erwin @ Aroma. Regretfully, that project has been cancelled. We’ll keep you posted on Erwin’s next venture.

LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF WISCONSIN SANCTUARY & PRESERVE, BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY TONY SOLURI

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fou n de r’s l e t t e r

by susan b . noye s Summer—a season defined by

beauty and opportunity for adventure—is too brief to spend our free time online or in front of a video screen. We’re hoping this issue helps you relax technology’s grip on your time and attention, giving you great advice to make the most of glorious summer days.

Thanks to Senior Editor Kelly Konrad and a large pool of talented experts, we’ve got page after page of ideas to get you offline and outside.

Want a more relaxing space out your own back door? Read what the experts suggest on page 23. Looking to reconnect with nature? We’ve got suggestions that are just minutes, hours, or a day’s drive away on page 20. Need help picking out a new board game? Julie Chernoff has chosen a few for you, on page 22. Still not sure you even need to unplug? Lindsay Roseman tells you why on page 24.

This month the stars are shining a little brighter, too—New Trier grad Katie Chang is set to become a breakout star in her new movie, “The Bling Ring.” We had a chance to talk with her about the movie and life on the North Shore. And don’t miss our sitdown with Mariel Hemingway, as she discusses her frenzied life and how she learned how to slow down and reclaim it.

As always, our mission focuses on making lives better, and thanks to Director of Community Development Sandra Miller and CEO Kimberly Carroll, along with sponsors JPMorgan Chase and Walgreens, we just celebrated our first Philanthropy Awards Celebration. We are thrilled to acknowledge the great work of so many nonprofits and look forward to doing it again. In fact, we’ll open nominations for our 2nd Annual Philanthropy Awards online this month at makeitbetter.net/awards.

So please, enjoy this magazine and the coming month with family and friends as much as possible, and commit to unplugging when you can—except when you visit us at makeitbetter.net, of course! its

Thank you.

lives made better: 94,808

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586 Lincoln Avenue Winnetka, IL, 60093 | 847-256-4642 Founder & Editorial Director Susan B. Noyes

Senior Editor Kelly Konrad Art Director Sarah Philippart Designer Lesley Smith

Dining Editor Julie Chernoff Fashion Editor Evangeline Politis Finance Editor Meghan Streit Fitness Editor Christy Coughlin Home Editor Tate Gunnerson Make a Difference Editor Laura Tiebert Senior Living Editor Stuart Greenblatt Sex & the Suburbs Editor Marjie Killeen Contributing Writers Val Haller

Interns Lauren Baraczek Alexander Hay

Lead Photographer Nathaniel Perry

Contributing photographers Laura Templin Susan Libman Tony Soluri

Web Editor Lindsay Roseman

Proofreader Julie Chernoff

Creative Director Cheryl Berman

CEO & Publisher Kimberly Carroll

Co-Founder & Vice President of Marketing Mindy Fauntleroy

Chief Financial Officer Sandy Tsuchida

Ad Sales Director Michelle Weiss

Director of Community

Development Sandra A. Miller

Senior Account Executives Patti Augustyn Megan Holbrook Julie Carter Account Executive Jenny Newman

Make It Better Foundation Sharon Krone Got feedback? E-mail susan@makeitbetter.net To advertise: Contact michelle@makeitbetter.net

Carrying forward the best of magazine Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 12 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 586 Lincoln Avenue, Second Floor, Winnetka, IL 60093. Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2013 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Application to Mail at Periodicals Rates is pending at Wilmette, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Make It Better, 586 Lincoln Avenue, Second Floor, Winnetka, IL 60093. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2013 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

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ON L I N E

OUR BETTER HALF IS ONLINE

Don’t miss our 2013 North Shore Summer Go Guide! Find the best local festivals and golf courses, beach and firework information, and tons of great activities, recipes and travel ideas to make the most of summer vacation.

pinspiration

Our followers can’t get enough of these pins. Follow Make It Better on Pinterest to repin your faves and read more.  PINTEREST.COM/MAKEITBETTERMAG

 MAKEITBETTER.NET/SUMMER2013

get glowing: the best self-tanners

Meatzza: Nigella Lawson’s glutenfree pizza with a meat “crust”

Summertime in Chicago has officially arrived! Get a healthy, natural glow with these hand-selected products—no orange hands or weird smells here.  BIT.LY/SELF-TANNERS

what’s hot on makeitbetter.net FAMILY LIFE

FASHION & BEAUTY

10 Worst iPhone Apps for Teens

The Best Swimsuits for Your Body Shape

RELATIONSHIPS

Manners Guru Lizzie Post on Summer Etiquette

RECIPES

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Brighten up a space with fun pops of your favorite color. Tip: Pick loud accent pieces, like pillows and vases, and keep the background palette timeless and neutral. That way, the hues are easy to swap out.

calling all nonprofit organizations!

Starting July 15, we’ll be accepting nominations and applications for the 2013-2014 Make It Better Philanthropy Awards! To nominate an org you love or to apply on behalf of your own, visit  MAKEITBETTER.NET/AWARDS

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The step-by-step guide to a longlasting lip.

KITE PHOTO COURTESY OF KITE FEST, MEATZZA PHOTO COURTESY OF NIGELLA LAWSON, KIEHL’S PHIOTO COURTESY OF KIEHL’S, OUTDOOR DECK PHOTO BY ERIC HAUSMAN

looking for more ways to unplug?

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YoUR

KIDS loveto

BUt IMAGINE

IF tHEY DIDN’t HAVE

ANY BooKS.

Wintrust Community Banks and the Junior Savers Club® are proud to support Bernie’s Book Bank in their mission to increase book ownership among infants, toddlers and school-age children throughout Chicagoland.

Since 2009, Bernie’s Book Bank has distributed nearly 1.5 million books to children in need in and around Chicago.

With the help of local organizations, including Wintrust, Bernie’s Book Bank hopes to collect 1,000,000 books in 2013. Let’s work together to help Bernie’s reach and even exceed that goal and put books in the hands of our children.

BRING YoUR NEW oR GENtLY USED CHILDREN’S BooKS to ANY WINtRUSt CoMMUNItY BANK

JUNE 16 tHRoUGH AUGUSt 16, 2013!

SAVING MoNEY CAN BE FUN!

tEACH YoUR KIDS HoW WItH oUR JUNIoR SAVERS CLUB® • • • •

FREE Junior Saver Club® events FREE rewards to cool places Special birthday wishes mailed to you each year FREE coin counting with Coin King

• • •

The Junior Savers® Account has no minimum balance requirement Earn great rates on your Junior Savers® Account You’ll learn that saving money can be fun!

Learn more at www.wintrust.com/books

Your Local Wintrust Community Banks

www.wintrust.com The Junior Savers Club is designed for children and young adults through the age of 18. At account opening, child(ren) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and present valid social security number(s). No minimum deposit to open. ©2013 Wintrust Financial Corporation.

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fr e sh

b y j u l i e c h e r n o f f a n d l i n d s ay r o s e m a n

Everyday Art Fair Shop for treasures and support local artists at Andersonville Galleria’s first suburban location in Evanston. You’ll find jewelry, fine artwork, photography, ceramics, handmade scarves and even gourmet foods from more than 40 local artists and vendors. After five successful years at the original location, owner Holly Elzinga decided to bring the charm of fair trade and local shopping to the North Shore. New artists and vendors can apply to sell their stuff in the store, so shoppers can always look forward to something fresh and cool. GALLERIA IN EVANSTON: 1627 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 773-2459779, galleriainevanston.com —LR

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Flavors del Sol Given the recent spate of restaurant closings in Highland Park, I was thrilled to see that Chef Benjamin Brittsan, who closed his eponymous Benjamin earlier this spring, has reopened with a more casual, family-friendly vibe and a totally different concept and menu inspired by his extensive travel in Spain. So pull up a chair at one of the rustic wooden tables at Benjamin Tapas, order a pitcher of Sangria or a Watermelon Mojitotini, and dig in! He’s got all the classic tapas (like bacon-wrapped dates, shrimp in garlic-lemon butter, baked goat cheese, and gazpacho) and a few new ones up his sleeve (artichoke hearts with arugula pesto, octopus carpaccio, and raw tuna topped with crabmeat salad, for example). Prices are quite reasonable, and they have outdoor seating, so you can dine al fresco! Benjamin Tapas: 1849 2nd St., Highland Park, 847-748-8737, benjamintapas.com —JC

Photos courtesy of each business

The Craft of Baking Hewn Bakery has opened in Evanston, and not a moment too soon. Co-owned by Evanston residents Julie Matthei and head baker Ellen King, it’s the perfect stop on your way to the train or on the walk back from the gym. This is a true artisan bakery; everything here is made in house, from scratch.

Ingredients are sourced locally and seasonally when flavors are at their peak, and each naturally fermented loaf is hand-forged. We are craving the Whole Wheat Gruyère, Polenta and Pumpkin Seed and Picholine-Olive Country loaves on a daily basis. You can also enjoy their Morning Buns, croissants, scones, muffins and coffee drinks, as well as healthy salads (like the EBQ with edamame, black beans and quinoa), flatbreads and sandwiches. Eating delicious food and feeling good about it? That’s a win-win for everyone.

Hewn Bakery: 810 Dempster St., Evanston, 847-869-HEWN, hewnbread.com —JC

Paddle Play Glenview Prairie Club reopened earlier this summer with a whole new look. Their beautiful new clubhouse now includes a pro shop, bar and grill, outdoor patio seating and event space. The nine-hole golf course is open for public play, and paddle players can take advantage of the four new paddle tennis courts.

Since memberships aren’t required to play, Glenview Prairie Club is the North Shore’s new paddle hot spot. GLENVIEW PRAIRIE CLUB: 2800 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, 847-6571637, golfglenview.com —LR

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e v e n ts

r e c o m m e n d e d

B y K e l ly K o n r a d

Theatre Hikes 6 Ongoing, beginning July 6 | Morton Arboretum | mortonarb.org Like a little exercise with your culture?

Try one of Morton Arboretum’s theatre hikes—this month, you can walk along with the swashbuckling action in The Three Musketeers. j u ly

editor’s pick Run for Walk 28 July 28 | Ryan Field, Evanston nusports.com/runforwalk It’s the second year for this 4.1-mile race through the Northwestern campus and community in honor of the Wildcats’ late football coach Randy Walker. Proceeds support one of Walker’s favorite organizations, the Evanston Animal Shelter. j u ly

Summerfest July 2–7 | Downtown Milwaukee summerfest.com It may be easier to name musicians not appearing at one of the summer’s best music festivals in the country. With headliners including The Eagles, Tom Petty, John Mayer, Rush, Tim McGraw and 10 more stages for 10 days, there is no chance you won’t catch one of your favorite acts. j u ly

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Ribfest 3 July 3–7 | Knoch Park, Naperville ribfest.net Ladies, please—it’s your chance to see Rick Springfield up close and personal this summer. And guys? This is THE place to enjoy the best meat-on-the-bone. Naperville j u ly

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Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival July 6–7 | Chicago Botanic Garden, 100 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe | chicagobotanic. org/artfestival If the art isn’t enough reason for a weekend stroll, consider the location. Summer season is in full bloom, making this one of the most spectacular spots for an outdoor festival. j u ly

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Fountain Square Art Festival  6 July 6–7 | Downtown Evanston chicagoevents.com This is oldest and largest outdoor art festival on the North Shore, with more than 200 artists, and a fantastic opportunity to stroll downtown Evanston’s shops, too. j u ly

Taste of Chicago July 10–14 | Grant Park tasteofchicago.us It’s all about the “yum” at one of Grant Park’s signature events. This culinary fest is also heavy on A-list entertainment, including Grammy-winning band fun. and rock icon Robert Plant. j u ly

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Roscoe Village Burger Fest  13 | Roscoe Village 13 July chicagoevents.com Think you know who makes the best burger in town? Here’s your chance to prove it, as you line up dozens of ‘em at a single sitting. Live entertainment and j u ly

Photos couretesy of norhtwestern university and chicago events

puts on quite a show, with the best ribs in town, top-notch entertainment, fireworks and fun.

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great antique shopping make for a highly entertaining day.

North Shore Flea  14 | 428 Green Bay Rd., 14 July Highwood | northshoreflea.com Where the hippest of the hip come to buy and sell—with more than 50 vendors on site and produced by the group behind Vintage Garage Chicago, you’re sure to find the latest in funky and fun. j u ly

Sailfest July 20 | Perlman Boating Beach, Glencoe | glencoeparkdistrict.com You’ve always wanted to join a regatta, and now’s your chance. Have some fun with sails on a warm July weekend. j u ly

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Ethnic Arts Festival 20–21 | Dawes Park, 1700 20 July Sheridan Rd., Evanston cityofevanston.org/ethnic It’s the 28th year for this globally inspired fest, featuring art, apparel and food from around the world. Two performance stages and an excellent lakefront locale make this a not-to-miss fest. j u ly

Lake County Fair July 24–28 | 1060 East Peterson Rd., Grayslake | lcfair.com Itching for an old-fashioned fair? Day trip it to Grayslake for fun, food and more than a few farm animals on display. j u ly

Photos courtesy of chicago events, north shore flea and pitchfork music festival

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2nd Annual Inferno Fest July 17 | Downtown Highwood celebratehighwood.com Do you like it hot? Then this is the food fest for you. j u ly

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Pitchfork Music Festival  July 19–21 | Union Park, Chicago pitchforkmusicfestival.com Sure, it’s the place to be for the best in indie music—but it also has The Book Fort, a killer indie lit fest that highlights up-andcoming authors, publishing houses and magazines. j u ly

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e v e n ts l ist i ng

july highlights B y K e l ly K o n r a d

ongoing Animal Inside Out Museum of Science and Industry | 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | msichicago.org Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence Field Museum | 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | fieldmuseum.org Dinosaurs Alive Brookfield Zoo | 1st Avenue and 31st St., Brookfield | brookfieldzoo.org Play, Pretend and Dream: Caldecott Medal and Honor Books, 2010 – 2013 The Art Institute of Chicago | 11 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | artic.edu Shedd Aquarium: Jellies  1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago sheddaquarium.org Spin: The Science of Rotation Kohl Children’s Museum | 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | kohlchildrensmuseum.org Welcome to the Universe Adler Planetarium | 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | adlerplanetarium.org

Windy City Ribfest July 5–7 Lawrence Ave. and Broadway, Chicago sponsorchicago.com Starry, Starry Nights July 6 Heller Nature Center | 2821 Ridge Rd., Highland Park | pdhp.org

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Chicago Botanic Garden: Garden Chef Series  July 7 Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org Pancake Breakfast in the Woods July 7 Emily Oaks Nature Center | 4650 Brummel St., Skokie | skokieparks.org

week of july 8 – 15 It’s Thursday, Let’s Dance July 11 Downtown Evanston | downtownevanston.org Movies on the Green July 12 Wyman Green, Glencoe glencoeparkdistrict.com

Photo courtesy of shedd aquarium

week of july 1–7

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Buffalo Grove Art Festival July 13–14 Downtown Buffalo Grove amdurproductions.com

week of july 16 – 22 Adler After Dark July 18 Adler Planetarium | 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | adlerplanetarium.org Chicago Botanic Garden: Hot Summer Nights July 18 Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org Dan Navarro July 19 SPACE | 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston evanstonspace.com Suburban Chicago’s Got Talent July 21 Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights metropolisarts.com

week of july 23 – 31 Jazzin’ at the Shedd July 24 Shedd Aquarium | 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | sheddaquarium.org Fiesta Del Sol July 25–28 Loomis St. and Cermak Rd., Chicago pilsenneighbors.org

Photo © Chicago Botanic Garden

Mindy Hester and the Timeouts July 27 Wilmette Theatre | 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette| wilmettetheatre.com

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m a k e i t bet t e r colum n

by

Susan B. Noye s

the most popular posts from my Founder’s Blog. I only regret that we don’t have space to include all the Make It Better ideas, people and organizations covered in the blog. For more, visit susanbnoyes.wordpress.com

The following are some of

The Friends of Ryerson Woods’

30th Anniversary celebration taught guests that millions—no exaggeration, millions—of birds like the ones featured on this costume migrate at night through the North Shore each spring and fall.

This includes tiny warblers, weighing no more than one ounce, who fly thousands of miles—from Argentina to the Arctic Circle—and stop to rest in our trees during the day.

Kathy Roeser’s gutsy moves helped raise more than $200,000 for breast cancer research.

This Winnetka resident juggles a lot— kids, work, friends, a WGN reporting gig—but still found the time and courage to dance with the stars to raise money for breast cancer research at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

After months of preparation, the Morgan Stanley wealth advisor and financial reporter competed in the Arthur Murray Dancing With Chicago Celebrities 2013 (à la Oscar-winner Jennifer Lawrence in “Silver Linings Playbook.”)

Roeser faced formidable competition, too. She and her dance partner, Kelly Palmiter, competed with the likes of Miss Illinois Megan Ervin, Chicago Bear Anthony Adams and celebrities from five local news channels. “It was a lot of work perfecting our ‘hustle’ dance (as well as nerve racking), but worth it!”

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“A teacher affects eternity

he can never tell where his influence stops.” said Henry Brooks Adams, whose forebears were American presidents.

Northbrook Court might have affected eternity and definitely strengthened its community by paying it forward to a great public school teacher.

In recognition of National Teacher’s Day on May 7, Northbrook Court awarded Emily Horvath a $500 Northbrook Court gift card. Horvath received the most votes on the mall’s Facebook page. She teaches social studies at Glenbrook North High School and was nominated by one of her students, senior Samantha Bernsen.

Pictured above: Stacy Kolios, marketing manager for Northbrook Court; Paul Pryma, Glenbrook North High School Principal; Robin Sheperd, Instructional Supervisor; Emily Horvath, Celebrate Teachers winner; and Mike Riggle, Glenbrook High School District 225 Superintendent.

Photos courtesy of kathy roeser, northbrook court and the friends of ryerson woods

Funds raised at the event support the Friends’ collaboration with Mano A Mano to provide under-resourced, primarily Hispanic, kids with access to and education about nature, conservation and art. That’s a win for the Friends, for the guests and for youth whose lives are transformed by this.

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Reflect Your Own Personal Style

Southampton by Wood-Mode.

Lee Lumber 2587 North Elston Avenue Chicago, IL 60647 www.leelumber.com Smartrooms A Spaces and Views Showroom 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 119 Chicago, IL 60654 312-644-4446 www.smartrooms.com Ad.indd 1 LAW_568.indd 1

Spaces and Views 2310 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60614 773-866-2310 www.SpacesandViews.com Spaces and Views 583 Elm Place Highland Park, IL 60035 847-681-0300 www.SpacesandViews.com

For your hhome. F F For your lif life.

For our environment. Š2013 Wood-Mode, Inc.

6/4/13 6/4/13 11:02 11:48AM AM

A. PERRY HOMES ARCHITECTS

BUILDERS

REMODELERS

introducing our LIFETIME WARRANTY

 Peace of mind, comfort, and security for your family  Proactive biannual maintenance ensuring proper home operation  Everything is included in our comprehensive home warranty program

Building a new home for your family should be a dream experience. From the ground breaking ceremony to the very last paint stroke, every moment should be exciting and cherished. But after your warranty expires, what then? Who is there to caulk joints? Who will check that the carbon monoxide, smoke detectors and sump pumps are operating efficiently?

A. Perry Homes clients lead busy lives. Work schedules, vacations and children’s activities can take precedence over proper and timely home maintenance. To solve this problem, we have created our Lifetime Warranty Program, a comprehensive process performed by construction professionals to ensure that your A. Perry Home will last a lifetime.

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FE AT U R E

PHOTO COURTESY FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF COOK COUNTY

B Y J U L I E C H E R N O F F, K E L LY K O N R A D A N D L I N D S AY R O S E M A N

LITERALLY, THE WORD SUGGESTS a physical disconnection from a power source. Metaphorically, it means taking a break—from work, from the Internet, from our cell phones, from the stimuli that bombards our senses every day.

Sounds good, right? And we’ll all get to it, once we’ve checked our email, texted our girlfriend, tweeted a blog post and updated our Facebook status. We know—it takes a serious commitment to make the break. And we’ve got ideas on how to do it, beginning with where to go to give yourself a break. These pages also include games to play, ideas on how to create a personal space to get away in your own backyard, and why it’s so important to do just that.

So kick back, relax and unplug. Your phone will be waiting, but you’ll never get this day back. Stop for a few minutes and just enjoy it.

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B Y K E L LY K O N R A D

mom or dad would say, in their mom or dad way, “Turn off the TV, and get outside! The fresh air will do you some good!”

What we would once begrudgingly oblige to turns out to be some of the best advice our parents offered. We DO need fresh air.

“The typical American kid spends about seven hours a day in front of a screen,” says Emilian Geczi, the youth and engagement coordinator for Chicago Wilderness, a local nonprofit specializing in local conservation and nature restoration outreach, in addition to connecting families with nature.

“At the same time, we know from other studies and anecdotal evidence that families are spending less time outside.”

Make it your mission to reverse that trend. Here are several great suggestions for an hour, day or weekend at play: Wisconsin Sanctuary & Preserve

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PHOTO <CREDIT>

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU were growing up, when your

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left and bottom photos courtesy of wisconsin sanctuary & preserve, top photo Courtesy Forest Preserve District of Cook County, middle photo courtesy of indiana dunes national park

for an hour the perfect place for a walk in the woods and an entry point for kids to learn about nature. 3120 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, 847-824-8360, fpdcc.com/nature-centers Illinois State Beach Park

Looking for a beach that isn’t too close to your home computer? Take a short drive north and spend some time at this state park—the only one located on Ilinois’ Lake Michigan shoreline. Visitors can hike, bike, swim, fish and camp. If you’re interested in a longer stay, there is also a resort and conference center. Zion, IL, 847-662-4811, dnr.state.il.us  River Trail Nature Center

Want to see a bald eagle up close and personal? Try this free nature center located along the Des Plaines River in Northbrook. “It’s a gem that’s kind of tucked away,” says Director Sue Holt. “It’s a very serene area … we only allow hiking.” Home to a wide variety of wildlife and an interactive visitors center, it’s

Caldwell Lily Pond

A hidden gem inside the city limits. “One of my favorite spots in the city is the Caldwell Lily Pond,” says Geczi. “There’s a lot of elevation, it’s accessible to little kids, [and] you can splash around and feel nature.” Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive, Chicago, chicagoparkdistrict.com

for a day Castle Rock State Park

Located just north of Dixon, Ill., about a two-hour drive down I-88 toward Iowa, and lesser known than Starved Rock State Park, Castle Rock offers picturesque trails for walking and hiking, with places to picnic.

Indiana Dunes 

Part of the National Park Service, the Indiana Dunes are a great place to tune out your daily noise and tune in to nature. With 15 miles of shoreline and 45 miles of trails, you can swim, hike, fish, bird watch and even camp. Take advantage of the park’s rangers to learn more about the natural surroundings and wildlife that make up the park. Indiana Highway 49 between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94, Chesterton, Indiana, 219-926-7561, nps.gov/indu

for a weekend myriad of nature-based activities, including birding, hiking, fishing, archery, wildlife photography and horseback riding.

Can’t quite disconnect? There’s high-def and Wi-Fi here, and the resort offers upscale fun including massages, ATV and Segway tours. “It’s like a destination vacation,” says manager Ashley Ford. “You can make it what you want, and we’ll take care of everything.” W5734 Chicago Ave., Wautoma, WI, wisanctuaryandpreserve.com, 888-770-4341 Mississippi River  Wisconsin Sanctuary & Preserve 

Located in central Wisconsin, this private destination lets you get away from it all—quite comfortably. The sanctuary attracts hunters with its luxury stands, but it’s drawing more families, fathers and sons and girlfriend getaways with its

If you’re looking to really unplug, a trip down the Mississippi River may just do the trick. Houseboating is a popular option for families that want to kick back and relax on the water—camp at night on private islands, and dock at super-cute river towns with boutiques, wine trails and fantastic antique shopping.

There are many rental companies online, such as hucks.com.

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We spend all day, every day, glued to a phone or computer screen. Kids are texting, playing Angry Birds, watching Netflix and surfing ESPN.com, while adults are checking their work and personal email, catching up on Facebook, and watching “The Voice.” Sometimes it feels like we fritter away all our time linking to others through the ether, but not enough time connecting to the people right in front of us.

It’s time to turn off the electronics and have some fun!

We need to remind our families— and ourselves—you don’t need to plug in to be entertained. It’s time for game night!

Back in the day, we played classic board games like Life and Monopoly, while our parents got together for bridge and backgammon. When Trivial Pursuit first came out in the early ‘80s, it was big news. But now, the shelves are laden with options.

David Reis, District Manager for Marbles the Brain Store, talked me through some of the many games in the Westfield Old Orchard store. “We aren’t a glorified toy store,” Reis explains. “We specialize in unique products; even if a game is designed for kids, it has to be fun for adults. And our big focus is that every game that comes into the store must be vetted by a brain-health expert, and we categorize them by the five major brain functions: coordination, word skills, memory, visual perception and critical thinking.”

Marbles believes that every game they carry is brain-beneficial in some way. For example, trivia is great for long-term memory, while sequencing aids critical thinking skills, and coordination games strengthen the mind-body connection.

So now we know that games can help you grow mentally as well as socially. Anyway you slice it, that’s time well spent!

recommended for families

recommended for adults

Anomia ($16): This 2010 Mensa Select winner plays off the fact that our brains are filled with all sorts of random ephemera; the trick is to be able to pull an example out of said brain on command! Hilarity ensues.

Mindstein ($30): This is a challenging but fun trivia game, where you answer five consecutive multiple-choice questions, and then unscramble the corresponding letters to form a five-letter word.

S-M-A-R-T!

Pengoloo ($30): Remember the old game Concentration? This time you’re playing with cute penguins and their multi-colored eggs. A great memory-recall game.

Cards Against Humanity ($25): Emphatically NOT for the family, this highly inappropriate but riotous card game is an adult version of Apples to Apples.

Available online only at cardsagainsthumanity.com or amazon.com.

Loaded Questions ($20): Roll the dice and answer a question. Sounds simple, right? But each question is a potential landmine, which makes the game so much more fun. This is a great icebreaker.

Morphology ($35): And you thought Pictionary was challenging?

Try making a dog out of a piece of string or a farmhouse from glass beads and popsicle sticks. This made Time Magazine’s Best Toys of 2010 list.

great local game stores Cat & Mouse: Chicago, cat-n-mouse.com

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Chicagoland Games: Chicago,

chicagolandgames.com

Pastimes Sports Cards, Comics and Games: Niles, pastimes.net

Marbles the Brain Store: multiple locations,

marblesthebrainstore.com

toys et cetera:

Chicago, toysetcetera.com

cards against humanity and loaded questions photos courtesy of each manufacturer; All other photos courtesy of Marbles: The Brain Store

by julie chernoff

makeitbetter.net

6/10/13 10:15 AM

B Y K E L LY K O N R A D

PHOTO <CREDIT>

YOU DON’T HAVE TO GET in a car to really get away.

Whether your routine is 14-hour workdays or 14 long carpool rides back and forth to golf camp, everyone could benefit from some true down time.

Fresh air is good for the body and the soul, accomplishing everything from boosting the immune system to relieving stress and promoting better sleep. It’s also just outside your back door. Creating personal space outdoors is just that—personal. And it can be as simple or extravagant as you desire.

“We see a lot of people wanting to get away from their cell phones and technology,” says Derrick Blair, the Design Studio Operations Director for Van Zelst. “There needs to be a time to get away from that, and we’ve found they want to move their house outside and leave their phones inside.”

Outdoor kitchens remain one of the more popular trends in outdoor landscaping, but creating a place to relax doesn’t have to be a formidable project.

“Fire pits are popular,” Blair says. “Fireplaces are more formal. Patio spaces that are multi-tiered so that you can displace yourself from everyday commotion are also popular.”

Rob Schwarz, a landscape architect with Schmechtig Landscapes, agrees that fire has become a common request in backyard landscaping. “Fire features are something that equates to relaxing. There’s nothing more primordial than fire.” Schwarz added his company has seen

requests for the full range of fire options, from a simple pit to full-fledged fireplaces, and even pieces that combine both fire and water elements.

If a place to meditate is more your speed, Schwarz suggests considering color, noise and texture. “I think of a place that would be comfortable and tranquil and a getaway, that’s your escape [where] you’re in your own little world. There’s a tendency for cooler colors; purples and blues are more calming, more soothing.”

And to cut back on road noise and loud neighbors?

Schwarz says to consider rustling foliage like that of certain aspens or water features. “Something that baffles with white noise.”

As more people look to their own backyards for stress relief, Blair says architectural features are becoming increasingly popular. “Arbors and pergolas have been surprisingly popular this year.”

At the same time, you don’t have to go big for the benefits of unplugging. “Shade gardens work,” Blair says. “Just little spaces for a bench or stone or wood, so people can get out and sit and listen to more peaceful surroundings.”

It doesn’t have to take long to transition your backyard to a place to unplug. Meditation spaces can be created within a week or two for a small design, such as an inground fire pit. Keep in mind though, for extensive plans, such as outdoor kitchens and larger ponds, you need to plan months ahead.

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switch off the TVs, and step away from the computers. Why? Because your health depends on it! Here are four examples of what you’re doing and how you can change it for the better:

PUT DOWN THE SMART PHONES, B Y L I N D S AY R O S E M A N

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consequence

what to do instead

Staring at screens for hours on end

If you spend most of your day looking at screens, your eyes are most definitely feeling the pain. Between 64 and 90 percent of computer users are affected by Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), which can cause eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain, according to the American Optometric Association.

Most symptoms are temporary, but can worsen over time if you don’t adjust your habits.

Even if you can’t avoid using a computer all day, there are a few simple ways to minimize the effects of CVS. Position your computer screen so it’s four to five inches below eye level with minimum glare, don’t sit too close to the screen, blink often to help moisturize your eyes, and take 15-minute breaks every two hours. Do your best to unplug after the workday and on weekends, rather than racking up even more screen time in front of the TV.

Try an “electronic sundown,” and turn off all devices at least an hour before bed. (Silence your cell and put it on the other side of the room to avoid temptation.) Unplug by reading a book or magazine for a more restful sleep. If you must use your phone or tablet, dim the screen brightness.

Watching TV and using your phone before bed

Using any device with a glowing screen—TV, cell phone or tablet—can prevent your melatonin levels from rising and make it harder to fall asleep at night. According to a study from the Lightning Research Center at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, two hours of late-night screen time can suppress melatonin by more than 20 percent. Since melatonin promotes sleep, watching TV or surfing the Net right before bed could explain the endless tossing and turning.

Emailing, Gchatting, Facebooking, Tweeting

Communicating online is quick, easy and efficient; however, research shows that when you spend more time communicating online than in person, your human contact skills take a hit. Dr. Gary Small, a psychiatrist at UCLA, found that although increased use of technology strengthens skills like multi-tasking, reasoning and decision making, it weakens important social skills as your brain adapts.

Get offline and communicate the old-fashioned way! Dr. Clark McKown, Executive Director of Rush NeuroBehavioral Center, recommends unplugging and spending more time with friends and family to build up those vital communication skills. This is important for your brain, but also for your overall well-being, since studies have found physical contact to be a basic human need.

Get out and MOVE! Ditch the electronics, turn off the TV, and do something active right now. Go on a family walk; take a bike ride during your lunch break; play outside with the kids; visit a client in person, rather than emailing. Making a slew of small changes in your daily routine will help you stay in shape and live a longer, healthier life.

Sitting all day

Chances are, if you’re “plugged in,” you’re also sitting down. You already know that sitting all day is not ideal, but here are the cold, hard facts. Women who sit for six or more hours daily face a 37 percent greater risk of death from cancer or other major diseases compared to those who sit for three hours or less, according to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study II. It only gets scarier for those who sit for long periods of time and don’t exercise regularly—a 94 percent higher risk of death.

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6/6/13 12:55 PM

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fa m i ly

Biking is one of summer’s most fun calorie busters.

Hopping on a bike path offers the best of both worlds—it’s a safe I-gotthe-kids-outside-in-fresh-air-and-awayfrom-Wii alternative for kids, and you can squeeze in a workout. In fact, a onehour ride at 12 - 14 miles an hour will knock 550 calories off your 140-pound frame. Moms love multi-tasking.

If you’ve grown tired of the paths closest to your neighborhood, consider throwing the bikes on the car and driving a few miles outside of your comfort zone—or bike it! Here’s five great places to hit the trail: 1 North Branch Trail System: Near and dear to many North shore residents, the North Branch ( fpdcc.com) is one of the most easily accessible trails, with access along Glenview Road and Lake Avenue in Glenview, Winnetka and Willow Roads near Northfield, Winnetka’s Tower Road and finally, the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Try: Hopping on and biking north to the Garden, where you can park your bikes and head toward the English Garden for an ice cream cone. Or, head south and take a slight detour to Hackney’s on Harms (1241 Harms Rd.,

26

Glenview, 847-724-5577, hackneys.net) for a late afternoon lunch on the patio.

2 Green Bay Trail: Another very easy path to access if you live close to the lake.

Hard core riders can start in Wilmette and ride straight up the path to the Great Lakes Naval Station. If you’re driving from another suburb, consider parking at the Wilmette train station. When you’re ready to call it quits, hop the Metra with your bikes and you’ll be safely deposited back at your car.

Try: Just about anything! The Green Bay Trail allows for easy access to all the towns it traverses. If you hit the trails on a Wednesday, Highwood offers its evening farmer’s market and a bunch of great festivals all summer long.

3 Des Plaines River Trail: Described as one of the most picturesque, the Cook County portion of the river trail ( fpdcc. com) runs more than 40 miles from Isle A La Cache Museum in DuPage County north to Rivershire Park in Lincolnshire. Bikers like it for the long distances one can go without having to stop for traffic—another plus with kids.

Try: Making it all the way to Lincolnshire and detouring to Swirlcup

(255B Parkway Dr., Lincolnshire, 847229-2200, swirlcup.com) for a hot fudge sundae—you’ve earned it.

4 Busse Woods Tail System: Located near Palatine, the Busse Woods Trail ( fpdcc.com) is an excellent option for a weekend day trip with young riders. The nearly 8-mile trail winds its way through the preserve and its three main bodies of water. It’s a trail for nature-lovers—see if you can spot the herd of elk!

Try: Bringing your fishing poles for a post-ride siesta lakeside, where you just may catch a northern pike or largemouth bass.

5 Illinois Prairie Path: You’ll have to venture out west for this one—a 60+mile path that eventually runs along the Fox River in the far western ‘burbs. The Illinois Prairie Path (ipp. org) is a scenic ride that’s enjoyable for novice riders and experts. Built along an old railroad right-of way, riders have a number of access options.

Try: Hop on the trail in Wheaton, and grab lunch at the Front Street Cantina (577 S. Third St., Geneva, 630-232-2806, frontstreetcantina.com) in Geneva.

• If you head out on a Forest Preserve of Cook County trail, riders 14 and younger are required to wear helmets. But you should be wearing them anyway, so you’re good to go.

• Plan ahead. With smaller kids in tow, you want to be sure you turn around to head back to your starting point well before they tire out. Cranky kids on bikes aren’t fun for anyone.

• There are plenty of places to picnic. Consider a pannier bag for your bike, or hook up the old Burley in the back of the garage.

• Don’t forget essentials, such as water, sunscreen and bug spray.

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Photo Courtesy Forest Preserve District of Cook County

Biking at Busse Woods

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fa m i ly

Your 10-and-under kid should try

By Christ y Coughlin

and there are so many great options out there for your little athletes. Consider exposing them to a variety of sports while they’re young. They may find their passion, learn to love movement, and enhance their physical, mental and social development. As they reach their teenage years, this solid foundation in youth sports will ensure a strong mind and body.

fall sport sign-ups are due,

Consider these awesome sports: Swimming is a lifelong sport and a critical safety skill that your child needs now. Swimming enhances coordination, as kids learn to time breathing with arm strokes and kicks. It also improves muscle strength, endurance and aerobic conditioning as your little one swims laps. According to Chris DeJong of Big Blue Swim School, “Early childhood swim lessons are scientifically linked to improved cognitive, physical, linguistic and social development in young children.” Learning to swim requires a long commitment to develop strong technique. This is a gift to your kids, as they will enjoy a lifetime of safe water play and an exercise that they can pursue into old age.

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Soccer is a great introduction to team sports, as early as age five. With right-sized balls and small fields, kids can master foot skills, passing and shooting. Gerry Canavan of the Wilmette Wings Soccer Club points out that “sprinting, running and jogging build a great aerobic and anaerobic foundation for young players and serve as a platform for other sports. The jumping, landing, cutting and changing of direction are all natural plyometrics that build lower-body strength and stability.”

Tennis is another life-long sport that provides exercise and is a great social activity. At nearly age 60, Jerry MorseKarzen of North Shore Racquet Club is still enjoying the game. Coach Karzen recommends tennis to help develop hand-eye coordination and footwork, as well as the ability to strategize and foster healthy competition.

New teaching techniques, including bigger, lighter balls and smaller courts, allow young players to learn and enjoy the game.

Gymnastics is a great way to engage with your toddler in a mom/ tot class, or as one of their first independent classes, Michael Kharpak, of the Wilmette Park District explains.

Three-year-olds can explore their first do-it-by-myself class, which teaches discipline and self-confidence. Gymnastics improves strength, flexibility and balance, while enhancing gross motor skills. Children learn to take appropriate physical risks and develop a sense of body awareness, which transfers to play outside of school.

Ice skating has numerous benefits for development. David Johnson of the Glencoe Park District sees young kids develop a good sense of balance and improve posture as they learn to skate.

Kids get a great workout while they enjoy the fluid movement of being on the ice. With each new skill learned, young skaters develop greater coordination and flexibility, and the ability to focus as they learn new skills. Skating is a fun, social activity and a wonderful way to enjoy cold weather.

Smile as your little one gets up from the screen, grabs a ball and runs, kicks, and shoots in the yard. Whether your child has a future as a high-school athlete, a concert pianist, or a technology expert, a childhood filled with summers spent in the pool, on the field, or on the court will build them up physically, mentally and socially. Time to sign up!

makeitbetter.net

6/6/13 12:55 PM

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6/10/13 10:03 AM

fa m i ly: travel

milwaukee: suds city is some city b y k e l ly k o n r a d

the Chicago hot spots, the beach is overcrowded, and you need new scenery. It’s time to revisit our cultural cousin to the north—Milwaukee, Wis. Long known for culinary wonders like beer, brats and frozen custard, the city is also a thriving arts and entertainment hub. It’s quietly becoming a nationally recognized destination for must-see museums, culinary experiences, nightlife and more. Want to get away for a day? We recommend:

School’s out, you’ve hit all

With the kids …

Take a brewery tour. There’s several to choose from, but for kids, the Sprecher Brewery Tour is the most fun. Adults can enjoy a beer tasting, and the kids can go crazy sampling every flavor of soda Sprecher has on tap. 701 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale, 414964-2739, sprecherbrewery.com Take a hike. For some fresh air, try the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, a 185-acre natural habitat along the lakeshore. 1111 E. Brown Deer Rd., Milwaukee, 414-352-2880, sanc.org Join the clandestine service. If the family is into spy games, make a stop at the Safe House for lunch or dinner. Kitschy décor and memorabilia fill this establishment, where you’ll feel as if you stepped onto a spy thriller movie set—but only if you know the

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password to get through the front door. 779 N. Front St., Milwaukee, 414-271-2007, safe-house.com Rev your engines. Put on your party hats—the Harley-Davidson Museum is celebrating the company’s 110th anniversary this year. This isn’t just Hog heaven; you’ll find a bunch of family-friendly exhibits. Psst … don’t miss the anniversary celebration weekend August 29 to September 1. 400 W. Canal St., Milwaukee, 414-287-2789, harley-davidson.com Grab a burger. Ask someone where to go for the best in beef, and you’ll be pointed in the direction of Sobelman’s Pub & Grill, situated inside one of the city’s original Schlitz taverns. Go big with the Triple SOB—the house burger, super-sized. 1900 W. St. Paul Ave., Milwaukee, 414-931-1919, milwaukeesbest burgers.com Burger at Sobelman’s Pub and Grill

With the girlfriends …

Shop ‘til you drop. Milwaukee has several great retail districts, with the historic Third Ward one of the most popular. You can hit some of your favorites and

iron horse photo © john nienuis; burger photo courtesy of sobelman’s

Cocktails at the Iron Horse

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6/6/13 12:58 PM

Photo courtesy of leonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

local indie shops all in one spot. 219 N. Milwaukee St., Milwaukee, 414-273-1173, historicthirdward.org Have some beer with that cheese. Take a break from shopping to enjoy some of the best culinary treats the city offers. The Wisconsin Cheese Mart offers cheese and craft beer pairings at their Ă&#x153;ber Tap Room. 1048 N. Old World Third St., Milwaukee, 888482-7700, wisconsincheesemart.com Grab cocktails at The Iron Horse. Residents rave about this hotel, located in Milwaukeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fifth Ward.

What was once a 100-year-old warehouse has been transformed into one of the hottest boutique hotels in the Midwest. Grab a drink and enjoy live music at the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outdoor bar, The Yard. 500 W. Florida St., Milwaukee, 888-543-4766, theironhorsehotel.com

With a significant other â&#x20AC;Ś Get artsy. Art lovers should not miss the Milwaukee Art Museum, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its stunning design and world-class exhibits, including more than 30,000 works of art, make the trek worth the trip. 700 N. Art Museum Dr., Milwaukee, 414-224-3200, mam.org

6th

Annual

Go green. Will Allen is a basketball player-turned-MacArthur Grant farmer.

And his organization, Growing Power, has its headquarters in Milwaukee. If you ever wanted to learn more about urban farming and its benefit to communities around the globe, take a tour. Amazing stuff. 5500 W. Silver Spring Dr., Milwaukee, 414-527-1546, growingpower.org Go big on small plates. For dinner, make a reservation at the Odd Duck, one of Milwaukeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foodie havens. Its small plates menu rivals anything on the Chicago food scene. 2352 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, 414-763-5881, oddduck restaurant.com Go sweet with your sweetie. Milwaukee is famous for their custard, and you pretty much canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong with any of the spots that specialize in this frozen treat. But if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling a little nostalgic, head to Leonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, the location muse for Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Happy Days.

3131 S. 27th St., Milwaukee, 414-383-1784, leonsfrozen custard.us

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PARK PLACE S T O R Y B Y TAT E G U N N E R S O N

|

PHOTOS BY TONY SOLURI

PHOTO <CREDIT>

Interior design firm Cannon Frank helps a busy couple create a relaxing retreat on the edge of a forest in Highland Park.

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This home was created for privacy and harmony with nature.

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a contemporary four-bedroom home on a forested setting in Highland Park, they hired interior designers John Cannon and Cary Frank, of Cannon Frank, to help them remodel the home. Their goal? To create a retreat where they could relax and unplug. “Our clients wanted a casual and comfortable home that would blend with their woodland setting and a sanctuary where they could get away from their busy professional lives,” Cannon explains. “This home was created for privacy and harmony with nature.”

The 6,500-square-foot home features high ceilings, large windows with views of the surrounding woods and casual contemporary furnishings. With the help of architect Marvin Herman, the designers also incorporated a 1,500-square-foot addition, which included a master bedroom and an office/exercise room. “Marvin Herman was very cognizant of the original architecture and we have worked well together before,” Cannon says.

For the interior design, the designers selected a color palette taken from the natural setting. “We used slate blues and khaki colors to blend

When a couple purchased

continued on page 37

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6/10/13 11:58 AM

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silks, satins, mohair and woven textures with earthy woods, and stone to create a multi-layered ‘complexion,’” Cannon says. “Most of the pieces are contemporary, yet very comfortable, with rich textiles—not patterns—to help promote a feeling of relaxation and a connection to nature.” Indeed, the eclectic mix of furnishings includes a chaise lounge and long lounging sofas, which commingle seamlessly with large textured tables, Asian artifacts and the clients’ art collection. “We wanted to be very eclectic with our selections, but to add to the sense that this is an art museum of contemporary furnishings,” Cannon says.

The home’s sandblasted, acidwashed marble floor adds to the museum-like feeling, but the surface was chosen for its practicality as well as for its clean aesthetic. “The finish is a very textured white floor, which shows no dirt or stains,” Cannon says. For the home’s carpeted areas, the designers selected natural-dyed Tibetan or leather rugs “to keep things earthy and natural.”

According to the designers, the interiors reflect the owners’ personalities well. “Think sophisticated people with bare feet, casual clothing and comfortable lifestyles walking along the beach with a glass of wine and their dog, while following the grandkids on a treasure hunt,” he says. “Life is great and they are living well, healthy and happy with their choices in life.”

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6/10/13 3:49 PM

bet t e r you | fashion

styled by E va n g e l i n e Politis

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photos by N at h a n i e l Perry

makeitbetter.net

6/4/13 3:50 PM

The thought of trying on a pair of printed pants can send some women running for the parking lot. Don’t fret!

We’ll show you how to pull off pattern this summer and fall by mixing in interesting textures and picking up on the print’s dominant colors. casual (left) House of Dagmar sweater, $299, Skändal Hunkydory tank, $39, Skändal Slim cropped printed pants, $55, Gap Ilse Jacobsen flip flops, $39, Skändal Andean Collection chunky necklace, $195, Frances Heffernan Lumi crossbody, $178, Skändal

Dressy (right) Hunkydory netted top, $201, Skändal Majestic white shell, $95, Frances Heffernan QL2 floral-printed pants, $395, Frances Heffernan Andean Collection green beaded necklace, $70, Frances Heffernan Swedish Hasbeens cutout purse, $219, Skändal Day Birger et Mikkelsen totenic sandals, $130, Skändal

more ways to play

Download our iPad edition for more cool ways to wear printed pants.

Download the free iPad app today  MAKEITBETTER.NET/IPAD

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6/5/13 3:07 PM

BET T E R YOU

running from crazy, running with nature MARIEL HEMINGWAY KNOWS CRAZY. Her

family has famously battled depression, addiction and mental illness for decades, and the casualties include suicides by her legendary grandfather, Ernest, and supermodel sister, Margaux.

She was determined to better understand her sad family history and protect her two adult daughters from repeating mistakes of the past. An Oprah Winfrey-produced documentary about the Hemingway family, Running From Crazy, is expected to hit theaters soon.

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Hemingway learned that honest introspection and healthy lifestyle choices diminished her own mental demons, including depression.

Because Hemingway is eager to help others, she co-wrote “Running With Nature: Stepping Into the Life You’re Meant to Live” (Changing Lives Press, 2013), which highlights 10 easy steps to achieve a healthy lifestyle. She’s also launching an app that makes a game out of those steps.

Recently in town for a Designs 4 Dignity (D4D) fundraiser, Heming-

way toured one of D4D’s projects— the Marchuk Family Pavilion of Midwest Palliative Care. With warmth and refreshing candor, she discussed her favorite aspects of an “unplugged” lifestyle with us.

MIB: Unfortunately, we’ve had a spate of teen suicides in this area.

Any advice?

MH: Talk about it! Unfortunately, as a culture we still don’t do [enough of] that because of a perceived stigma. I believe that our teens will be the ones to eventually fully open the door for this dialogue.

PHOTO © 2011 GETTY IMAGES

BY M I N DY FAU N T L E ROY

makeitbetter.net

6/6/13 1:05 PM

MIB: Thank you for your part, too, by sharing your story through the documentary.

MH: That’s exactly why we made this. When I talk about it, others always come up and share their story.

I’m touched—and surprised by how hard others have had it.

MIB: And your other recommendations?

MH: They’re easy! And they are in the book—get into nature, treat your food as though it is medicine for your body, live more simply, exercise more, try new activities, live sustainably. For example, we barter the eggs laid by the [free-range] chickens in our back yard.

This country was built on family farms. People long to get back together as families that way now.

MIB: What about technology?

MH: Turn it off. Take technology-free days. We turn off the Internet box every night, and I know that I sleep better and get more rest because of it.

MIB: You look fabulous. This lifestyle seems to suit you.

MH: When you start to step into the life you were meant to live, it’s wonderful!

40_MarielHemingway.indd 41

Hemingway’s 10 Easy Steps To A Healthier, Happier Life correspond to the chapter names in her book, “Running With Nature.”

They are:

1. Get Outside 2. Sleep Well 3. Breathe Consciously 4. Live Silence 5. Eat Wholesome Food

6. Drink Pure Water 7. Cleanse and Heal 8. Laugh and Play 9. Adventure 10. Be Mindful in Your Relationships

Read the book: Available for purchase from Amazon.com Get the app: Available in the App Store

Watch the movie: facebook.com/ RunningFromCrazy

6/10/13 10:06 AM

DI N I NG | dining review

Siena Tavern 51 W. Kinzie St. Chicago 312-595-1322 sienatavern.com

IF YOU’RE A TOP CHEF fan, I’m about to preach to the choir.

But I stopped watching it the season Fabio Viviani didn’t win. And it wasn’t just because he was gorgeous, charming, and had an Italian accent I still hear in my dreams. Well… maybe a little bit! But also because his food looked so soulful and approachable that I wanted to jam myself into the TV, shove Tom Colicchio out of the way, and eat it all myself.

FA B I O CO M E S TO C H I C AG O

The point of all this? Now I can.

Eat his food, I mean (not so much with the Colicchio shoving). Fabio has partnered with the guys at the DineAmic Group (Public House, Bull & Bear) to bring his culinary vision to Chicago. Is there room for another “modern” Italian place in a city already tightly packed with them? Sí, sí! When the food is this good, we will make room for them in our hearts and our stomachs.

The restaurant is huge, to the tune of 10,000 square feet of bar and dining space. It’s done in a “modern industrial”

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style, meaning lots of salvaged airplane metal, polished rivets, leather, reclaimed wood and funky light fixtures. It’s eyecatching, to be sure, but I could do without all the high-def TV screens.

DRINK UP!

Although, I must admit, if I could watch every college b-ball game with a Cocktail #6 (Bombay Sapphire, Benedictine, bitters, maple and lime) in my hand, I wouldn’t complain. All the signature cocktails ($12) are pre-mixed (for speed and consistency) and stored in beautiful glass bottles behind the bar. The #5, a “New-Fashioned,” if you will, was another keeper, with Maker’s Mark bourbon, averna amaro, allspice dram, masala chai, lemon, bitters and sparkling cider.

T H AT ’ S A TA S T Y M E AT B A L L

You’ll want to start with a Kobe Meatball ($17) for the table, and not just because it has it’s own Twitter account (@sienameatball, started by a loyal customer and fan). It’s one enormous hunka-hunka deliciousness, nestled in a pool of chunky tomato

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

sauce that tastes like a Tuscan summer, topped with an olive oil-enriched ricotta and shaved basil. Magnifico!

The Grilled Octopus ($14) is another do-not-miss. They marinate the beast for 24 hours, and it is unbelievably tender.

Then it’s paired with super-crispy, duckfat potatoes, red chilies, celery, chive and aged balsamic. There was nearly a fist fight over that one … must have been the lunchtime cocktails talking.

From the Crudo (raw) bar, we chose the Ahi Tuna ($12) in a fennel and peppercorn crust, topped with pickled Tuscan kale and garlic chips and drizzled with habanero oil. Tasty, but nothing earth shaking about it.

Among many interesting salad options, we went with the Farro ($14), the toothsome grain tossed with (very few, tiny) grilled shrimp, thick ribbons of calamari, veggies and too much herb-mustard vinaigrette. We did love the Siena Chopped ($14), which featured crumbled Gorgonzola, mixed greens, avocado, artichoke hearts, cannellini beans, and scrumptious bits of wild boar salami. I’d order that again in a heartbeat.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SIENA TAVERN

From Top Chef favorite Fabio Viviani

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6/5/13 3:18 PM

P i z z a Pa r t y

This might be my new favorite pizza, at least if we’re talking about the Prosciutto Pear ($17). The perfectly blistered crust is slathered with roasted garlic cream, Taleggio and mozzarella cheeses, salty and silky prosciutto, grilled pears and arugula. Would that I had room to eat the whole thing.

The Short Rib Ravioli ($17), eggy, house-made pasta enveloping an unctuous, umami-laden filling of short ribs and roasted porcini mushrooms, and gilded with parmesan cream, was a calorie and cholesterol bomb, über rich and crying out for a glass of Barbera.

And while we enjoyed the flavors of the Bellwether Farm Ricotta Cheese ($11), topped with pistachio pesto, oven-dried tomatoes and chunks of crispy mortadella, you would think that giving the cheese top billing would mean a substantial dollop of cheese. Not so.

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Doughnuts: a Must

If you can leave here without trying the Bomboloni ($9), a quartet of mashed potato-based Italian doughnuts, fluffy and light, coated with sugar and served with a trio of delicious dipping sauces in tiny squeeze bottles (the raspberry-chianti was my fave), you are of stronger stuff than I. The Olive Oil, Lemon & Sea Salt Gelato ($3/scoop) was a refreshing delight.

Our server was well informed and very friendly; unfortunately, there were some problems with timing in the kitchen and the meal stretched on a little long.

But that will not deter me from going back … I actually already have my next reservation. Maybe I’ll see you there!

summer special! check website for details

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42_SiennaTavernReview.indd 43

1407 Western Avenue, Lake Forest

847-482-YOGA

6/5/13 3:19 PM

DI N I NG | dining list

on the north shore

by

JULIE CHERNOFF

outside? In the too-short season known as summer in Chicago, there are hundreds of restaurants inviting you to join them in the great outdoors.

Pull up a wrought-iron chair, and grab your SPF 30— these are some of our top North Shore al fresco options with a recommended summery dish to enjoy in the great outdoors.

DOESN’T EVERY MEAL TASTE BETTER

BARRINGTON Barrington Country Bistro Go at lunchtime for the Salumi Sandwich, with fennel salami, Serrano ham, arugula, brie and apricot preserves on a ciabatta roll.

700 W. Northwest Hwy., 847-842-1300, barringtonbistro.com PL8 Their Tuna and Avocado Sumiso has lots of diced big-eye tuna and avocado tossed with sake-miso sauce and daikon sprouts.

Raw and summery! 736 W. Northwest Hwy., 847-3821988, pl8simplyasian.com DEERFIELD Bobby’s Deerfield You’ll find me on their patio eating the Augie’s Cackler, a happy marriage of grilled, marinated chicken breast, tapenade, arugula and French feta on a whole-grain Kaiser roll.

695 Deerfield Rd., 847-6079104, bobbysdeerfield.com

EVANSTON Coast Sushi Now that they’ve got their liquor license, throw back a sake or two with their Crunchy Spider or Spicy Hamachi Roll. 2545 Prairie Ave., 847-328-2221, coastsushi.net Found How about a glass of Found Punch and the Chef’s Board, a rotating selection of house-made goodies, always including interesting charcuterie, cheese and vegetables?

1631 Chicago Ave., 847-8688945, foundkitchen.com Quince at the Homestead Sit on the veranda with the Club Sandwich of the Week and a Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale, or enjoy one of Chef Andy Motto’s super-seasonal dishes off the dining room menu.

1625 Hinman Ave., 847-5708400, quincerestaurant.net GLENVIEW Glenview House Kick back with one of their many craft beers and a pressed Cuban Sandwich, made here with eight-hour braised pork, house-cured duck ham, Manchego cheese and pickles on a telera roll. 1843 Glenview Rd., 847-724-0692, theglenviewhouse.com Hackney’s on Harms A time-honored North Shore tradition: a patio

table, a Patty Melt, a halfbrick of onion rings, and thou. 1241 Harms Rd., 847724-5577, hackneys.net HIGHLAND PARK Abigail’s I’m crazy about their cocktails, especially teamed with the killer Sichuan Green Beans with cashews and fish sauce aioli, and some Spicy Shrimp Tempura to share. 493 Roger Williams Ave., 847-8491009, abigails493.com Bella Via How about a simple Caprese Salad, a thincrust spinach pizza and a glass of Prosecco? That’s how they do l’estate back in Italia. 1899 Second St., 847-681-8300, bellaviahighlandpark.com HIGHWOOD Miramar For the true French bistro experience, try a glass of dry rosé and a Fresh Shellfish Platter with oysters, crab claws, clams and shrimp served with mignonette and cocktail sauces. 301 Waukegan Rd., 847-4331078, miramarbistro.com LAKE BLUFF Grille No. 43 You can’t get much more summery than Seared Ahi Tuna with chilled roasted veggies, salmon caviar and yuzu-soy sauce. 28800 N. Waukegan Rd., 847-2347643, grilleno43.com Inovasi They make an awesome Japanese BBQ Pork Sandwich with Kentucky soy, shaved cucumbers, fried leeks, homemade ranch dressing and a side of hand-cut fries that will take you back to the best picnic you never had. 28 E. Center Ave., 847-295-1000, inovasi.us

PHOTO COURTESY OF LIBERTAD RESTAURANT

al fresco dining

Tom & Eddie’s I’m hanging with the stroller brigade, a Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake in one hand, and a Blue Chip Burger (blue cheese cream, garlic aioli, tomato, avocado and potato chips on top of a juicy burger) in the other.

740 Waukegan Rd., 847948-5117, tomandeddies.com

 A cocktail at Libertad 44

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6/5/13 3:25 PM

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Lake Forest Authentico Arriba! The Elotitosâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;marketstyle corn on the cob, dipped in house dressing and rolled in crumbled cotija cheese and dusted with ancho chile powderâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is the best way to relive a summer street fair while sitting at a table.

770 N. Western Ave., 847-2953500, authenticorestaurant.com Market House on the Square Revisit July in Cape Cod with the terrific Crab Cake, â&#x20AC;&#x153;more crab than cake,â&#x20AC;? seasoned with Old Bay and sweet peppers and servedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;of courseâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with remoulade sauce. 655 Forest Ave., 847-234-8800, themarkethouse.com Libertyville 545 North The Yucatan Fish Tacos are worth the driveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;white-corn tortillas filled with grilled mahi mahi, jalapeĂąo pico de gallo, shredded romaine lettuce and chimichurri aioli. 545 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-247-8700, 545north.com Mt. Prospect Earth and Ocean Of course, the sushi is terrific, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something about The Chicken Wings, done popsicle style in a sweet and spicy glaze, sprinkled with Buddha Dust and dried shrimp powder.

Hundreds could be eaten. 125 Randhurst Village Dr., 847-3983636, eofoodanddrink.com Northbrook Zapatista A Mamacita Margarita (all natural and sugar free, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still tequila, fresh lime, lemon and prickly pear juice and agave nectar) and the Campachena Ceviche (citrus-marinated shrimp and crabmeat) can keep me going for a while. 992 Willow Rd., 847-559-0939, zapatistarestaurant.com Northfield Tapas Gitana Sangria me and pass the Plato

de Esparragos con Jamonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; blanched asparagus served with thinly-sliced Serrano ham and Manchego cheese, drizzled with sherry vinaigrette. 310 Happ Rd., 847-784-9300, tapasgitana.com Three Tarts Bakery One of my favorite summer lunches is their Roasted Chicken and Artichoke Sandwich, followed by a slice of dreamy coconut cake. Throw in a large, freshly brewed iced tea, and happiness is achieved. 301 Happ Rd., 847-446-5444, threetartsbakery.com Skokie Libertad Any Hum Liqueur-flavored cocktail will complement the Asada, grilled skirt steak with tomato, chipotle-goat cheese, herby chimichurri sauce and yucca frites.

Like being on the beach in Cabo, without the sand getting in your food. 7931 Lincoln Ave., 847-6748100, libertad7931.com Wilmette Convito CafĂŠ & Market You can hear Lake Michigan in the background while you eat your Grilled BLT Salmon Salad, served on a bed of baby spinach and arugula and dressed with lime vinaigrette and avocado coulis. 1515 Sheridan Rd., 847-2513654, convitocafeandmarket.com Winnetka Jerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really digging their California Turkey Burger, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s miraculously moist and smeared with red pepper hummus, topped with avocado and micro greens, and served on a multigrain English muffin. And did I mention the sweet potato fries?

505-507 Chestnut St., 847-4410134, cornercooks.com Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect time to enjoy the Thai Duck (or Chicken) Salad, a riot of textures and flavors tossed in a gingery dressing.

1003 Green Bay Rd., 847-4467100, oneilswinnetka.com

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E N T E RTA I NM E N T

by L I N D S AY ROSEMAN FROM NEW TRIER HALLWAYS TO Hollywood

red carpets, life just got crazy for Winnetka’s Katie Chang, the breakout star of Sofia Coppola’s major summer blockbuster “The Bling Ring.”

Katie plays Rebecca, the ringleader of a clique of celebrity-obsessed L.A. high-schoolers who break into the homes of stars, including Paris Hilton, Orlando Bloom and Lindsay Lohan, and steal millions of dollars worth of designer clothes and jewelry. Based on a real-life crime story (and the famous Vanity Fair article “The Suspects Wore Louboutins”), Coppola’s adaption is indulgent, electric and completely captivating.

Get to know Hollywood’s up-and-coming “It Girl.”

2 She eats like a kid. The first thing she did after seeing “The Bling Ring” for the first time at the New York premiere was order a grilled cheese sandwich. “I eat like a five-year-old,” she jokes.

3 Writing is her other passion. Like Coppola, Katie one day wants to write about the story of young women. “It changes from decade to decade, and I think Sofia’s seen it progress, and she’s so amazing at telling stories with young women. I’d love to explore that because I am a young woman, and I think writers write from experience.” She’ll be studying creative writing at Columbia University this fall.

4 Her dream collaboration is Lena Dunham. “I’m more interested in the actor-writers,” she says.

5 Blackhawks rule in the Chang household. “I grew up in a hockey family. My dad’s from Minnesota, so all he did was play hockey and soccer. My brothers play, and we pay more attention to them playing hockey than we do to me acting, and acting is a pretty big part of our lives now.”

6 She loves to give back. She’s been volunteering with Special Gifts Theatre, a program that pairs special-needs children with mentors to put on musical productions, for the past seven years.

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7 Her personality is the opposite of Rebecca’s. She describes herself as a total nerd—a smart, good girl. “[The movie] was like a safe-environment teenage rebellion,” she says.

8 She didn’t always get the part.

After quitting soccer in middle school, Katie first started classes at the Actors Training Center because she didn’t get a callback for a musical at the Winnetka Community House. “I had nothing really going for me, and my mom was like, ‘Well, why don’t you take acting classes?’”

9 Café Buongiorno is her favorite spot in town. Whenever she’s back in Winnetka, Katie always makes a stop there.

“It’s been my favorite place since I was a little girl,” she says.

Fashion research helped her get into character. Katie read Style.com and fashion magazines every day “to get into the mind of someone who really appreciated fashion.” She also wrote journals from Rebecca’s perspective and researched the real-life leader of “The Bling Ring,” Rachel Lee. She sings and plays guitar and piano. “I love to sing,” she says. “Music is a big part of anybody’s life, I think.”

She’s a speedy reader. “She’s the fastest reader on the planet,” says her manager, Carole Dibo of the Actors Training Center. “We’ll send her a script and we haven’t even read it, and eight minutes later she’ll say, ‘Yeah, I like this.’”

PHOTO COURTESY OF KATIE CHANG

1 Tina Fey is her hero. She admits to reading “Bossypants” five times, and her senior yearbook quote came from the book: “You can’t be that kid standing at the top of the waterslide, overthinking it. You have to go down the chute.”

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6/5/13 3:31 PM

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6/10/13 11:56 AM

e n t e rta i nm e n t

musicunplugged by va l h a l l e r o f va l s l i s t

I believe that the best thinking time is when you’re bored. But the world doesn’t do boredom very well.

When I was young, there was simply more idle time. My sports schedule wasn’t packed. I rode my bike up the street to Mrs. Mastriana’s for piano lessons. When we went on family trips, seven of us sat in a long station wagon, with nothing to do inside but look out the window and try not to touch your sibling. When my mom was late picking me up after school, I had two choices: sit in the vestibule and stare at the wall, or read.

We waited —for the bus, our rides, our turn.

I had plenty of time when I was alone with my mind. And I liked that. A lot.

offers too many distractions, too much entertainment, too much filler that’s killing our idle time. Today’s options hook us and bring out obsessive tendencies we didn’t know we had. Checking Facebook, following Twitter, sending a quick text, playing your turn with friends online … these are killing our thinking time. If we can’t make ourselves stop—or at least unplug for awhile—we could lose a valuable commodity, creative thought. The next big invention or potentially game-changing idea might slip right through your fingertips.

I dreamed. I invented things. I wrote letters.

It was calming. And looking back now, I know it was good for me. Today’s world

Unplugging from tech—that’s using our heads.

48_Books-Vals.indd 48

Music To Think To

Ultraista (soothing, chill electronic) Peter Bradley Adams (singer/songwriter calm) David Broza (world music) Simone Dinnerstein & Tift Merritt (classical with folk) John Lester Quartet (jazz) Shows Not to Miss

(unplug and come out to live music!)

July 2 Lee Fields & the Expressions at SPACE Evanston (R&B/Soul) July 6 Dark Star Orchestra at Park West July 11 & 12 Leo Kottke at SPACE Evanston (acoustic guitar) July 12 Eric Lindell at SPACE; 10 p.m. show (singer/songwriter) July 18 Valslist HOUSE CONCERT at 7pm featuring Antje Duvekot (email val@valslist to be put on guest list) July 23 Bob Schneider at Lincoln Hall (super fun show—take friends) July 25 Steve Martin & The Steep River Canyon at Chicago Theatre (bluegrass)

6/10/13 11:50 AM

book l ist

b y k e l ly k o n r a d

Trying to keep your kid engaged with reading can be difficult—especially during summer vacation. Here are six great suggestions that are sure to capture their imagination:

The Enchantress Michael Scott The sixth in the series, Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel find themselves squaring off against monsters from Alcatraz Island in a fight to save San Francisco.

48_Books-Vals.indd 49

Far Far Away Tom McNeal Jeremy Johnson of the town of Never Better hears voices—no, he really hears voices. When one of them is half of the Brothers Grimm, you know it’s going to be a thrilling ride.

World War Z Max Brooks Before Brad Pitt was battling zombies on the silver screen, there was the book. Don’t let your kids see the movie until they read this wildly popular sci-fi adventure.

Wonderstruck Brian Selznik If artwork means as much as the written word to you, try Selznik’s story about two kids, Ben and Rose, told 50 years apart. The illustrations alone make this worth reading together.

Boy 21 Matthew Quick Boys can sometimes be the most difficult to prod when it comes to reading, but this story of two loners and their bond over basketball is quickly engaging and a great summer read.

6/10/13 11:50 AM

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chicago:

Kate Attea’s venture philanthropy

By Susan B . Noye s

relaxed vibe and a part-time job, Wilmette’s Kate Attea doesn’t fit the mold of the stereotypical Harvard MBA. Until, that is, she talks about her work at A Better Chicago. Then her strategic, articulate, smart-with-heart philosophy perfectly matches her graduate-school degree.

Attea is a managing director of the venture philanthropy nonprofit A Better Chicago (ABC), which provides funds and managerial support to a select group of high-performing nonprofits.

ABC’s mission is to dramatically grow opportunities for Chicago’s poor by using savvy business analytics. “We look for strong program models, great leadership, solid organizations, and scalability,” Attea says. “We support cradle-to-career best practices.”

The model is simple: ABC vets nonprofit organizations that focus on education, early childhood development or workforce development. After finding the region’s best organizations, ABC funnels 100 percent of its donations to those organizations and provides managerial support. Their own board covers ABC’s expenses.

Attea’s schedule may be part-time, but her responsibilities are large. She makes investment recommendations to the board, facilitates support for selected nonprofits and runs Project Impact, a competition that gives one nonprofit organization $100,000 and a year’s worth of ABC’s support. To

With four kids, a casual,

A Better Chicago currently supports: Citizen Schools • Year Up • LEARN Charter School Network • One Goal • Genesys Works • Jumpstart • Restoring the Path

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date, ABC is working with seven nonprofits, and Attea anticipates that this number will increase to 10 or 11 by the end of the year.

Attea came to this work serendipitously by following her heart. Her first job out of Dayton University was with an upstate New York business. When the firm replaced its computer system and wasn’t able to give cast-offs to any of the needy schools in the area, Attea saw an opportunity to make a real difference.

She quit her job and started Computers For Children, with her former boss as the first co-founding board member.

Attea then realized that she lacked the skills to scale the model. “So I hired my replacement, and got myself to HBS (Harvard Business School).” Her introduction to more lucrative ventures didn’t change her desire to serve through nonprofit work.

“I’m passionate about giving smart,” Attea says. “Nothing else at HBS could turn my head.” She grins and says, “That why I bring home a side of toast; I don’t bring home the bacon.”

Attea moved to Chicago with her husband, who is also an HBS grad. He grew up in Lake Forest and wanted to return to the North Shore to raise their four young children. She recently brought her second oldest, 6-year-old Mae, to work.

“After drinking hot chocolate, riding a scooter, sitting in bean bag chairs and writing on the walls, she thinks I have the greatest job in the world.”

Attea seems to think so, too. “I look at my life as a portfolio of experiences,” she says. “I just love to solve problems and make a difference.”

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Dr. David Center DDS LTD

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6/3/13 12:29 PM

M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

B Y K E L LY K O N R A D

EMPOWER A COMMUNITY Evanston Community Foundation 847-492-0990 | evanstonforever.org The Evanston Community Foundation helps donors transform love for their community into working resources for those who live there. The Foundation’s mix of programs gives it a unique

GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING Kohl Children’s Museum 847-832-6600 | kohlchildrensmuseum.org The Kohl Children’s Museum is a world-class institution in Chicago’s northern suburbs where children can learn, experiment and play. However, museum admission and membership fees cover less than half of its operating costs, while personal contributions account for the majority of its funding. Donations will be used to provide educational opportunities for children in low-income neighborhoods and children with special needs.

For only $84 a month, donors will be honored as Wonder Funders and will be recognized as major contributors to the museum. For more information, contact info@kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

AND SANDRA A. MILLER

PROVIDE SCHOOL SUPPLIES TO NEEDY CHILDREN  L’Ecole de Choix/School of Choice Education Center 312-493-9929 | SchoolofChoice.net The School of Choice (L’Ecole de Choix) provides high-quality, trilingual education with a focus on leadership to children in Haiti living in the most extreme conditions of poverty. As a result of their destitution, most students cannot afford basic school supplies such as pencils, notebooks and backpacks. Contributions to The School of Choice will provide students with necessary materials for the upcoming school year and will allow them to learn and grow, and eventually lead their country to prosperity. To donate, go to EcoledeChoix.org/contribute.

Direct any questions to Laura Pincus Hartman at 312-493-9929 or lhartman@depaul.edu.

DONATE TOWELS AND BEDDING Mary Lou’s Place 847-864-8445 | ywca.org/evanston Mary Lou’s Place, a domestic violence shelter operated by the YWCA Evanston/North Shore, is in need of new or used towels and twinsized bedding. Mary Lou’s Place is the only

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF L’ECOLE DE CHOIX/SCHOOL OF CHOICE EDUCATION CENTER AND THE TALKING FARM

 SUPPORT LOCAL AGRICULTURE The Talking Farm 847-425-5125 | thetalkingfarm.org The Talking Farm is in need of funding to get its operations up and running. The organization cultivates healthy, sustainable communities by supporting the production and appreciation of locally grown food through urban farms, urban agriculture, and education. The Talking Farm hopes to eventually sell produce for long-term sustainability, but it continues to rely on individual contributions for now. Contact info@thetalkingfarm.org for more information.

capacity to help the community meet a wide range of local needs, including allocating grants to local non profits, providing leadership training to youths, and building endowments for current and future opportunities within the community.

All donations are greatly appreciated, and can be made online at evanstonforever.org or mailed to the Foundation’s office at 1007 Church St., Suite 108, Evanston, 60201.

comprehensive domestic violence program serving the northeastern metropolitan Chicago area, offering support no matter where a woman might be in her journey to end the violence in her life, assisting more than 800 women and children annually. Donations can be delivered to the YWCA Evanston/North Shore at 1215 Church St. in Evanston.

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RUN TO END POVERTY A Safe Haven 773-435-8480 | asafehaven.org Runners and walkers alike will enjoy the 3rd annual 5K RUN! To End Homelessness Sunday, July 14, at Douglas Park in Chicago.

All proceeds benefit A Safe Haven, which daily helps more than 1,000 people facing homelessness and addiction receive housing and social services. Volunteer, sponsor a runner, create a team or register at runtoendhomelessness.org.

MENTOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Youth Job Center 847-864-5627 | youthjobcenter.org Volunteers are needed at the Youth Job Center in Evanston to lead job-readiness workshops, mock interview sessions, and resume writing seminars for youth ages 14-25 who aim to successfully enter the workforce. Professional women are encouraged to mentor young women ages 18-25, many of whom are just starting out in their careers. Please contact khoopingarner@youthjobcenter.org for details.

ď ° ASSIST PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Over The Rainbow Association 847-424-5604 | otrassn.org Over The Rainbow is seeking volunteers to help its physically disabled residents navigate and utilize existing community resources that affect quality of life and encourage independence. Based in Evanston, Over The Rainbow is dedicated to increasing the standard of living for people with disabilities through the creation of affordable, barrier-free housing that promotes independent living. Please contact Tara Moran at tmoran@otrassn.org for information on volunteering.

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M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

better makers and their impact

1 WOODLANDS INSTITUTE

40th Annual Congé Event April 27, 2013 Glen View Club Attendees: 175 $300,000 raised The Congé Event, deriving from the French word for “play date,” provides more than one-third of families with financial aid at the Woodlands Academy college preparatory day and boarding school in Lake Forest.

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PHOTOS BY LILIANE CAFFEE

SHOWN IN PHOTOS:

(1) Silent Auction Chair Alison Kohlmeyer of Lake Forest, Congé Co-Chair Heather Kotlarz of Lake Forest, Live Auction Chair Mary Oelerich of Chicago, and Congé Co-Chair Lori Rozdolsky of Lake Forest; (2) Co-Chairs: Heather Kotlarz and Lori Rozdolsky; (3) Students graduating from Woodlands Academy; (4) Jacqueline Deberry of Green Oaks and her husband, Charles, chat with Rob Grabemann of Lake Forest.

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6/4/13 4:08 PM

Coldwell Banker

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REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

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Guests receive the first shopping opportunity for the benefit of the top rehabilitation hospital in the nation.

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SHOWN IN PHOTOS:

(1) Party Chairs Susan WestSlayton of Naperville and Dianne Millard of Kenilworth; (2) Rodney Goldstein of Chicago with Kristi Brown of Kenilworth; (3) 2013 RIC Medicine Ball Chairwomen Paula Smith of Kenilworth and Miller Shivers Vance of Chicago; (4) Noren Ungaretti of Chicago with Diana Hall of Kenilworth; (5) A doctor at RIC helps a patient with walking.

IMPACT PHOTOS BY CHRIS GUILLEN, ALL OTHERS BY DAN REST

16th Annual Merchandise Mart Antiques Fair Preview Party April 25, 2013 Merchandise Mart Plaza Attendees: 650 $50,000 raised

MUSIC INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

83rd Anniversary Gala May 13, 2013 Four Seasons Hotel Attendees: 500 $1,275,000 raised The gala provides the primary source of financial aid programs that benefit more than 5,000 students annually.

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Make It Better was the media sponsor of this event.

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PHOTOS BY BOB CARL AND JENNIFER GIRARD

SHOWN IN PHOTOS:

(1) Denis and Sondra Healy of Winnetka, Aliya Alsafa (piano student); (2) Eugene Schmitt of Winnetka, MIC Board member Bill Graham of Kenilworth, MIC Board member Barbara Schmitt and MIC Board member Alexandra Nichols, both of Winnetka; (3) Quartet Lumiere members Josiah Yoo, Mira Williams, Gallia Kastner and Rebecca Benjamin with 2013 Dushkin Award recipient Lang Lang; (4) MIC Board member Kay and Jim Mabie, of Northfield.

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6/6/13 10:27 AM

SPONSOR E D CON T E N T

LINCOLN PARK ZOO:

feeding minds, not just the animals

BY L I N CO L N PA R K ZO O

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINCOLN PARK ZOO

There’s more to running a zoo than feeding the animals.

FOR YEARS, LINCOLN PARK ZOO has been a leader in providing exceptional science education programs for kids and adults alike. Whether it’s providing curriculum and professional development to teachers, field trips and conservation summer camps to thousands of kids each year, teen internships or adult programming, the zoo has long been a tremendous resource for lifelong science exploration.

And now, with its newly established Hurvis Center for Learning Innovation and Collaboration, they are poised to become a national leader in the development of innovative science learning.

MAKING SCIENCE FUN

Because of their approachability, zoos and museums have proven to have a profound effect on science learning.

With the new center, the zoo can not only develop new programs, but also

serve as a learning laboratory to test and measure new science education models.

“Our goal has always been to increase public understanding of and engagement with science,” explains Hurvis Center Director Leah Melber, Ph.D. “Now we have the resources and means to take risks and expand our education initiatives, to keep them innovative and relevant.”

MORE THAN JUST TRACKING ANIMALS

Their first of many initiatives is the new education app Observe to Learn.

Free and available to anyone for download, this app allows users to explore animal behavior wherever they are – at the zoo or in their own backyard.

But there’s so much more to be learned than just tracking animal behavior.

“The skills you learn through this program are universal competencies across all science disciplines,” Dr. Melber says. “Skills like learning how to observe, record and analyze data, test theories, think critically and make conclusions. And these skills aren’t just

relevant to science; they are necessary to success in today’s complex world.”

In addition to Observe to Learn, the Hurvis Center will sponsor two careerfocused programs, Career Explorers and Research Apprenticeship Program, aimed primarily at underserved youth who have an interest in the sciences and might not otherwise receive career development support.

While most of its focus in the nearterm is on youth programs, the Hurvis Center will also be developing new initiatives to engage adults.

“It’s easy to convince kids to come to the zoo to see lions and howler monkeys,” Dr. Melber says. “Our job at the Hurvis Center is to use that trip as a springboard to encourage curiosity in the sciences and a passion for learning.”

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the country’s last remaining free admission zoos.

You can help keep the zoo free, and support education initiatives by joining the Women’s Board at the 36th annual Zoo Ball, “Wild at Heart,” Friday, July 12. Ticket information is available at lpzooball.org

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CLOSI NG T HOUGH TS

One learns first of all in beach living the art of shedding; how little one can get along with, not how much. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Anne Morrow Lindbergh

P I CT U R E D : ZE F F A N D H A ZEL A SN ER, O F DEERFI ELD | PH OTO BY SUSA N LI BMA N

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