Make It Better November December 2016

N OV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6 T H E H O L I DAY I S S U E

T H E H O L I D AY I S S U E NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

CHICAGO AND NORTH SHORE

CHICAGO AND NORTH SHORE POWERFUL . POSITIVE. CONNECTORS.

nutcracker THE JOFFREY BALLET'S

A S PA R K L I N G N E W V I S I O N

V O L U M E 7, I S S U E 6

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ONE-ON-ONE WITH CBS 2’S IRIKA SARGENT FESTIVE WINTER LANDSCAPING MUST-EAT DISHES AT TOP CHICAGO RESTAURANTS THE GUIDE TO GIVING

Uniquely

Winnetka

Village Toy Shop

Rib and Stitch Yarn Studio

WE’RE PROUD TO BE

YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY BANK

We didn’t end up here by accident. Unlike other banks in our market, we were built here, for here, and we’re committed to this area’s success. When you bank with a Wintrust Community Bank, your money goes back into things that matter most to you: the local economy, local organizations and charities, and the strength of our local community. We care about these things too because, for us, this isn’t just where we work. This is home.

WINNETKA’S COMMUNITY BANK

NORTHFIELD’S COMMUNITY BANK

576 Lincoln Ave. | Winnetka, IL 60093 847-441-2265 | www.nscbank.com

245 Waukegan Rd. | Northfield, IL 60093 847-446-0245 | www.northview.com

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BANKING!

PROUD TO BE A WINTRUST COMMUNITY BANK. We are nearly 3,500 community and commercial bankers, home loan officers, financial advisors and specialty lenders focused solely on our customers and the communities where they live. We all have the same mission: To provide best-in-class financial services to all of our customers, be the local alternative to the big banks, and to improve the communities which we call home.

North Shore Community Bank & Trust is a branch of Wintrust Bank. Northview Bank & Trust is a branch of Northbrook Bank & Trust Company.

Get Dwell

Cafe Aroma

Le Chic Boutique

YOUR HOLIDAY SALE OF THE SEASON

Frances Heffernan

Optique

Bedside Manor

Londo Mondo

Jeannie Balsam Interiors Jeannie Balsam InteriorsMaze Home

BloOuts Blow Dry Bar

Doyle Opticians

Oui Madame

(PICTURED TOP LEFTTOP TO RIGHT) Good Grapes beer,craft andbeer, festive stocking 847.242.9800 Stacked & Folded&Fresh foodFresh always. catering (PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT) GoodBoutique Grapes wines, Boutiquecraft wines, and festive stuffers. stockingGoodGrapes.com stuffers. GoodGrapes.com 847.242.9800 Stacked Folded food Great always.

Great for catering for all of yourallentertainment needs! stackedandfolded.com 847.386.9100 Village Toy ShopToy A favorite wonderful toys, we toys, help you find the villagetoyshopIL.com 847.446.7990 Rib and Rib and of your entertainment needs! stackedandfolded.com 847.386.9100 Village Shop Aforfavorite for wonderful we help youperfect find thegift! perfect gift! villagetoyshopIL.com 847.446.7990 Stitch Yarn Studio AnStudio elite yarn storeyarn offering comprehensive selection of yarns and accessories. ribandstitch.com 847.780.1086 Coldwell Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Servicing Servicing all residential real Stitch Yarn An elite storeaoffering a comprehensive selection of yarns and accessories. ribandstitch.com 847.780.1086 Banker Residential Brokerage all residential real estate needs locally, & internationally. coldwellbankerhomes.com/il/winnetka 847.446.4000 North Shore Community Bank Full Bank Retail Full andRetail Commercial Banking Services Mortgages estate needsnationally locally, nationally & internationally. coldwellbankerhomes.com/il/winnetka 847.446.4000 North Shore Community and Commercial Banking including Services including Mortgages and Wealth Solutions. Solutions. nscbank.com 847.441.2265 Get DwellGetAward-winning team of skilled craftsmen providing providing exceptional remodeling, repair andrepair handyman service. getdwell.com andManagement Wealth Management nscbank.com 847.441.2265 Dwell Award-winning team of skilled craftsmen exceptional remodeling, and handyman service. getdwell.com 847.922.3418 Cafe Aroma 847.881.2601 CONLON/Christie’s International Real Estate Luxury Real EstateReal conlonrealestate.com 847.242-7600 Le Chic Boutique Unique Unique 847.922.3418 Cafecafearomawinnetka.com, Aroma cafearomawinnetka.com, 847.881.2601 CONLON/Christie’s International Real Estate Luxury Estate conlonrealestate.com 847.242-7600 Le Chic Boutique womens jewelry, accessories and European childrens childrens clothing line. lechicboutiquewinnetka.com 708-712-7946 Results22Results22 Ranked Top 15th Top Diet15th ClinicDiet in the U.S., out U.S., of 5,700 womens clothing jewelry, and clothing and accessories and European clothing line. lechicboutiquewinnetka.com 708-712-7946 Ranked Clinic in the out ofclinics.

5,700 clinics. results22.net Results22diet@gmail.com, Winnetka,Winnetka, Lake Forest, Glenview 847.834-0175 Frances Heffernan We bringWe the fashion and you bring the style yours.

847.446.2112 results22.net Results22diet@gmail.com, Lake Forest, Glenview 847.834-0175 Frances Heffernan bring the fashion and you bringthat theisstyle thatfrancesheffernan.com is yours. francesheffernan.com 847.446.2112 Winnetka-Northfi eld Chamber of Commerce Provides tourism, community information to promotetoand enhance healthy a business winnetkanorthfieldchamber.com 847.446.4451 Winnetka-Northfi eld Chamber of Commerce Providesbusiness, tourism, and business, and community information promote and aenhance healthyenvironment. business environment. winnetkanorthfieldchamber.com 847.446.4451 Optique optiquenorthshore.com 847.446.3917 Blowdry Boutique North Shore’s quick in &quick out blowout 847.386.7137 Bedside Manor Snuggly luxuriously Optique optiquenorthshore.com 847.446.3917 Blowdry Boutique Northluxury Shore’s luxury in & outservice. blowoutBlowdryBoutiques.com service. BlowdryBoutiques.com 847.386.7137 Bedside Manorwarm, Snuggly warm, luxuriously soft-Alicia soft-Alicia Adams’ Alpaca makes a great shopbedside.com 847.441.0969 BloOuts Blow DryBlow Bar Offering BloOuts, withalong braids andbraids up dos.

224.255.6611 OrringtonOrrington Adams’cape Alpaca cape makesgift. a great gift. shopbedside.com 847.441.0969 BloOuts Dry Bar$35 Offering $35 along BloOuts, with andbloouts.com up dos. bloouts.com 224.255.6611 Jewelers Jewelers Fine Jewelry serving and the North Shore for Shore 30 years. orringtonjewelers.com 847.446.5171 Londo Mondo street wear, workout dresses.orLondo Mondo FineStore Jewelry StoreWinnetka serving Winnetka and the North for 30 years. orringtonjewelers.com 847.446.5171 LondoSwimwear, Mondo Swimwear, street wear,orworkout dresses.

Londoliterally Mondo literally has you covered!

224.255.6466 ESTREET DENIM and unique women’s clothing, jewelry accessories. estreetdenim.com 847.784.8805 Doyle Opticians has you londomondo.com covered! londomondo.com 224.255.6466 ESTREETExceptional DENIM Exceptional and unique contemporary women’s contemporary clothing,and jewelry and accessories. estreetdenim.com 847.784.8805 Doyle Opticians doyleopt.com 847.446.6264 Jeannie Balsam Winning Firm Specializing in “ClassicinInteriors a Modern jeanniebalsam.com 847.441.5228 Maze Home Find holiday doyleopt.com 847.446.6264 JeannieInteriors BalsamAward Interiors Award Design Winning Design Firm Specializing “ClassicforInteriors for aLife.”

Modern Life.” jeanniebalsam.com 847.441.5228 Maze Home Finddecor holiday decor and gifts for mazehome.com 847.441.1115 Oui, Madame!

Beautiful boutique jewelry, gifts and more! ouimadame.net 847.441.0182 andeveryone. gifts for everyone. mazehome.com 847.441.1115 Oui, Madame!

Beautiful with boutique withaccessories, jewelry, accessories, gifts and more! ouimadame.net 847.441.0182

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2016 WINNETKA & NORTHFIELD

new diamonds new designs new sp t

7 East Huron Street

creating exceptional jeweLLery 312-944-6888 • WWW.LESTERLAMPERT.COM

This holiday season, treat the whole family to Mozart’s sublimely enchanting fairy tale.

DECEMBER 10 – JANUARY 27

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Once upon a time,

Tickets start at just $39 for adults & $20 for children

Prince Tamino instantly fell in love with Pamina, daughter of the Queen of the Night. Tamino, along with his silly sidekick Papageno, must undergo a series of trials to save Pamina and win her heart. Never take for granted who is good and who is evil in this heartwarming story told as never before, in a brand-new production from the perspective of an innocent and curious child.

A wonderful introduction to opera for all ages!

PHOTO: TODD ROSENBERG

SAVE 10% ON OPERA PERFORMANCES WITH PROMO CODE MIB1617

EXPERIENCE

312.827.5600 | LYRICOPERA.ORG

PRODUCTION SPONSORS

The NegauNee FouNdaTioN

RaNdy L. aNd MeLviN R. BeRLiN

RoBeRTa L. aNd RoBeRT J. WashLoW

VALID ON SELECT OPERA AND SPECIAL EVENT TICKETS, PLUS THE 4/28–5/6 PERFORMANCES OF MY FAIR LADY. OFFER IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND NOT VALID ON PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED TICKETS OR IN COMBINATION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. DATE AND ZONE RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. PLEASE SEE LYRICOPERA.ORG/PROMO FOR FULL OFFER DETAILS.

3

1

5

4

3.

2 9

7

6

8

10

1) Marie Jo Lace Bra The best bras in the world are right here in Wilmette. This gorgeous and comfortable lace bra is imported from Belgium and features a removable flower accent. $138, Chantilly Lace, 1144 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-256-8077, c-lace.com 2) Stretch Sequin Dresss from Weston Hubba-Hubba carries fashions that take you from desk to dinner, casual lunches to evening parties. From marvelous apparel to jewelry, accessories and gift items, you’re sure to walk away with head-turning finds like this glamorous sequin dress. $249, Hubba-Hubba, 1105 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-728-0272, hubbahubbawilmette.com 3) Empire Bangle Perfect for a holiday party or a special gift, this hammered 24K gold and sterling silver plated bangle with Swarovski crystals looks amazing worn alone or stacked. $200, Vibrato Boutique, Plaza del Lago, 1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, 847-853-1434, vibratoboutique.com 4) Trimdin Reversible Jacquard Jacket Trimdin creates beautifully tailored reversible jackets in unique and classic fabrics. Their curves and clean lines provide a flattering comfortable fit. Made in the USA. $205, Yellow Bird Stationery, Invitations and Gifts, 1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, 847-256-1380 yellowbirdstore.com 5) Exhibit A lifestyle boutique in a unique apartmentstyle setting, Exhibit carries a curated collection of apparel, accessories, jewelry, homewares and fantastic gifts, including the soft and magical Late Sunday Afternoon Scarves, handmade right here in the U.S.A. Exhibit, 1148 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-5840, shopexhibit.com, facebook.com/shopexhibit 6) Wilmette Theatre See first run, indy and foreign films, and unique live programs. Gift cards and memberships make perfect gifts. Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-7424, wilmettetheatre.com 7) Nick’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill ‘Tis the season for holiday cheer at this gastropub serving delicious dishes made from the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Nick’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, 1168 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-3262, nickswilmette.com 8) Julie Vos Hinge Cuff This Baroque cuff with rose cut end caps in labradorite, citrine or blue quartz, with pearl accent, is a highlight from Raven and Dove’s large collection of jewelry by New York designer Julie Vos. $330, Raven and Dove Jewelry and Gifts, 1143 Greenleaf Ave., Wilmette, ravenanddove.com 9) Wilmette Wine Cellars For fine wine and craft beer, events and tastings, look no further than this top-notch shop that offers an impressive selection and knowledgeable staff. Wilmette Wine Cellars, 1100 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-920-5883, wilmettewine.com 10) Obaku Watches Featuring stunning pieces from top designers and incredible custom jewelry design and redesign services, Wilmette Jewelers is a one-stop shop for that extra-special gift this holiday season. Starting at $149, Wilmette Jewelers, 1149 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-1061, wilmettejewelers.com

Shop

Eat

Explore

For holiday shopping and event information visit facebook.com/discoverwilmette

SHARE THE

JOY CHARLES DICKENS’

ADAPTED BY TOM

CREAMER | DIRECTED BY HENRY WISHCAMPER

NOVEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 31

312.443.3800 | GoodmanTheatre.org GROUPS OF 15+ ONLY: 312.443.3820

Major Corporate Sponsor

Corporate Sponsor Partners

Media Partner

Airline Partner

All, for your one.

SM

Lurie Children’s is the top-ranked children’s hospital in Illinois, with over 1,400 physicians in 70 pediatric specialties and more than 500 researchers looking for new cures.

It all adds up to the highest quality care. All, for your one.

Visit luriechildrens.org or call 1.800.KIDS DOC® to make an appointment

Making Holidays

Magical

Inside & Out Shopping Holiday Lights Visits with Santa Ice Skating Dining & More

Santa HQ

Fashion Outlets Of Chicago Nov 11 - Dec 24 Photos with Santa • Elf-Ray Vision • Pet Nights

Free Ice Skating MB Financial Park

Nov 25 – Feb 5, visit website for hours Bring Your Own Skates • $8 Skate Rentals Available

DestinationRosemont.com

People talk about empowering women to advocate for change.

We do it.

People talk about strengthening US-Israel ties.

We do it.

People talk about game-changing medical discoveries.

We do it.

We’re the largest Jewish women’s organization in America.

This is what we do.

DO SOMETHING. JOIN US.

Hadassah Chicago-North Shore chicago-northshore@hadassah.org

847.205.1900

HADASSAH THE WOMEN’S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC.

hadassah.org/DO

©2016 Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Hadassah, the H logo, and Hadassah the Power of Women Who Do are registered trademarks of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc.

FEATURES N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6 • V O L U M E 7, I S S U E 6

43

72

By Julie Chernoff, Brooke McDonald, Jenny Muslin and Kendra Thornton

By Brooke McDonald

2016 Better Gifts: Holiday Gift Guide

68

Anchored Woman: An Interview With CBS 2 Chicago’s Irika Sargent

Ring In The New Year/Baby It’s Cold Outside: Holiday Fashion

82

A Sparkling New Nutcracker

By Dorothy Andries

94

Guide To Giving

96 Where to Donate Almost Everything 100 Bang For Your Charitable Buck 102 Sister Act 106 Give Time, Give Things, Give Support 108 Better Makers And Their Impact

By Anna Carlson, Olivia Ellis, Susan B. Noyes and Susan Pasternak

By Susan B. Noyes

Photo by Todd Rosenberg

DEPARTMENTS 40 76

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

40 Moments Made Possible

62

By Susan B. Noyes

FAMILY & TRAVEL

52 Take Off: 5 Must-Visit Destinations A Direct Flight From Chicago

By Amber Gibson

57 Daytripper: Streeterville

By Meghan Streit

62 Seasons Greens:

Holiday Landscaping

By Heather Blackmore

A BETTER YOU

78

Take Your Holiday Hair Up A Notch

By Jenny Muslin

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

86

Holiday Hot Tickets

By Robert Loerzel

88

Give a Great Read

By Rincey Abraham

90 To-Eat List

By Julie Chernoff

IN EVERY ISSUE

57 90

20 founder’s letter 24 you said it 26 from the web 30 fresh 32 real estate news 34 recommended events 36 event listing

closing thoughts 114

Corrections: Make It Better erroneously credited a kitchen photograph on the bottom of page 50 in our September/ October issue to DG Kitchen & Bath. The credit should have been Dream Kitchens.

Photos on pages 58-60 of our September/October issue should have been credited to Kathleen Virginia Photography.

We apologize for the errors.

The views expressed in sponsored content are the opinions of advertisers and not the views of Make It Better.

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHILDREN’S FUND; SECOND PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL MCCLENDON; THIRD PHOTO COURTESY OF NAVY PIER; BOTTOM PHOTO BY JULIE CHERNOFF; TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF CHALET LANDSCAPING

52

The Magic of The SeaSon iS here!

Autohaus on Edens has the perfect SUV to get you & your family safely to all your Winter events.

The all new 2017 models have arrived at Autohaus on Edens. Come in for outstanding pricing, leasing and finance offers on our all new 2017 and remaining 2016 models.

There’s never been a better time to drive a new Mercedes-Benz.

New 2017 GLS

New 2017 GLE All New 2017 GLC

For over 45 years, Autohaus on Edens proudly served generations of North Shore families with exceptional safety & performance rated Mercedes-Benz vehicles. We’re the largest new car volume Mercedes-Benz dealer on the North Shore.

Based on 2008-2015 calendar year to date sales - because we Drive Your Dreams!

Mercedes-Benz at Autohaus on Edens

1600 Frontage Rd. • Northbrook, IL 60062 1 800 NEW BENZ • autohausonedens.com

(On the Edens Expressway between Willow & Dundee)

FOUNDERS LET TER

Dear Reader, Happy Holidays to you.

Happy seventh anniversary of this magazine to us.

Did you know that in November 2009 — at the bottom of the worst economy since the Great Depression — we launched the print Make It Better magazine?

Oh yes we did!

You may not know though that Make It Better started more than two years before that as a small community website and has launched many other great activities and resources for our community too. These include:

THE POWER OF YOUR POSITIVE CONNECTIONS

BY SUSAN B . NOYE S

2007

Launched website

2008

Launched Better Letter email newsletter

2009

Launched print magazine

2010

Bought North Shore magazine

2011

Launched Make It Better Foundation and Philanthropy Awards

2012

Launched Guide to Giving and multiple social networks

2013

Launched improved website, including MIB TV videos

2014

Grew into Chicago Gold Coast and Lincoln Park footprint

2015

Launched custom publishing

We’re grateful for the opportunity to be your trusted resource in so many ways.

Thank you for reading, sharing and caring. When you do, you help us grow this network of powerful, positive connections.

Please enjoy — this magazine, our digital platform, our community. You are a gift to us.

Susan B. Noyes

MAKEITBETTER.NET @MAKEITBETTERNS

@MAKEITBETTERNS

MAKEITBETTERMAG

MAKEITBETTER.NET

MAKEITBETTER2009

The Mission of Make It Better is to be the most trusted, easiest-to-use community resource that helps you make your life and the lives of others better—online, in print and in person.

We accomplish this by providing the highest quality lifestyle content for our audience and connecting them to the businesses and nonprofits they support.

20 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

T H E M A N G E L CO LLEC T IO N

2016 S O LD I N

THANKS FOR OVER $175 MILLION OF HOMES SOLD* Buying • Selling • Relocation • Moving • Renting

KATHRYN BADER MANGEL, CRS 847.372.5801

KELLY O’CONNELL MANGEL 847.910.2621

K2@TEAMMANGEL.COM | TEAMMANGEL.COM *Broker Metrics® from 2005-2015

SPONSORED CONTENT

NORTHSHORE UNIVERSITY HEALTHSYSTEM CENTER FOR PERSONALIZED MEDICINE

TAILORING HEALTHCARE at the GENETIC LEVEL

What is Personalized Medicine? Quite simply, it’s a healthcare game changer.

“We’re analyzing variation in individual patients’ DNA to evaluate risk and prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses more effectively,” says Dr. Peter Hulick, medical director, Center for Personalized Medicine at NorthShore University HealthSystem. “We’re tailoring your care to you — your unique genetic profile, your family history.”

Launched in 2014, the NorthShore Center for Personalized Medicine is quickly becoming a leader in this exciting new field. Already, their techniques and findings are making a difference in cancer, cardiovascular and neurological care.

“Prevention is always our first goal,” says Dr. Michael Caplan, chairman, Department of Pediatrics, and chief scientific officer, Research Institute. “If we can spot a potential risk for a particular disease in a patient early, chances are we can actually keep that person from ever getting the disease.”

In cancer care, personalized medicine is an increasingly important factor in both assessing risk for and treating cancer more precisely. For patients with a family history of certain cancers — breast, colon or prostate, for instance — genetic testing can provide insight into one’s risk, which can lead to proactive screening and preventative measures for these cancers. This gives specialists the insight to customize strategies to reduce those risks. For patients diagnosed with cancer, analyzing the genetic make up of the tumor helps oncologists develop targeted therapies specific to the molecular biology of the cancer.

In preventive cardiovascular care, NorthShore specialists have identified genetic markers for increased risk of certain kinds of heart disease. Using this information, they can treat patients with lifestyle changes and possible medications to help prevent heart attacks, strokes and peripheral artery disease.

22

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Dr. Michael Caplan, Chairman, Department of Pediatrics and Chief Scientific Officer (left); Dr. Peter Hulick, Medical Director, Center for Personalized Medicine (right)

Personalized medicine is making great strides in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease too. One of the greatest risk factors for Alzheimer’s is a family history of the disease. So the experts at NorthShore are using genetic testing, advanced diagnostics and lifestyle factors to predict risks for Alzheimer’s early. Then they develop a plan specifically for each patient to help delay — and possibly prevent — its onset.

“This is where medicine is headed, personalizing your care based on your specific genetic profile. And we’re doing it now,” says Dr. Caplan.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (847) 570-GENE or visit northshore.org/genomics.

Center for Personalized Medicine (847) 570-GENE | northshore.org/genomics

Personalized Medicine for what’s next.

Transforming the future of healthcare.

At the NorthShore Center for Personalized Medicine, we’re taking a bold approach to predicting, preventing and treating illnesses. We’re identifying genetic markers for increased risk of heart disease and analyzing the DNA of tumors to determine the most effective treatment. And we’re working to develop new genetic tests every day, aimed at preventing and treating even more diseases, all based on your unique genomic profile.

This is where medicine is headed, and we’re doing it now. This is healthcare for what’s next.

Call (847) 570-GENE or visit northshore.org/genomics

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU, SO PLEASE KEEP SENDING US YOUR STORIES, COMMENTS, OPINIONS, IDEAS AND REVIEWS!

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

ONLINE

facebook.com/makeitbetter.net

@makeitbetterNS

makeitbetter.net

EMAIL

INSTAGRAM

PINTEREST

susan@makeitbetter.net

@makeitbetterns

MakeItBetterMag

Thanks for all the emails, letters, tweets and Facebook messages this month! Here’s what you had to say: In response to our 2016 Entertaining Guide (makeitbetter.net/entertain) [I] just finished reading through the entertaining insert to this month’s magazine. It was FABULOUS! Please give my thanks to Julie and crew as I’ll be holding on to it. Thought it was so well curated and covered many angles — more than the usual events guide, etc. Great for personal and work and highlighted businesses in such a thoughtful, substantive way.

PHOTO BY ANNA ZAJAC

- Elizabeth McCostlin

I wanted to say thank you for making me look good!

Recently my 25-year-old son gave me a compliment.

He was commenting on how when we go for dinners on Sunday evening I always pick a great place. I always go to Make It Better for a recommendation and haven’t had a bad meal yet! He lives in River North and yet I seem to know the hot new places to try. Whether it is the South Loop or Evanston, MIB gets it right!

Thank you!

In response to “The 25 Most Powerful Women in Chicago” (makeitbetter.net/powerfulwomen) While it is great to recognize powerful women, at least two of the 25 listed were described as “beautiful,” No. 2 and No. 23. I’ve never seen a power listing for men noting their handsome quotient. And listing some women as beautiful begs the question of what you think of those for whom “beautiful” was not noted. This list was one step forward and one step back, and references to women’s beauty did not help “make it better.”

- Denise Mattson Editor’s Response: We agree that beauty should not factor into any discussion about a woman’s power and success. The exterior appearance of the women on our list did not play any role in their inclusion and those references have been removed. We thank you for the fair criticism.

- Kathy Saitelbach

Read more “You Said It” online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/YOUSAIDIT

24

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

321 N. Clark, Suite 500 Chicago, IL 60654 | 847-256-4642

Publisher & CEO Susan B. Noyes President & Chief

Francia Harrington Strategy Officer Associate Publisher Michelle O’ Rourke Morris

Chief Operating Officer Sandy Tsuchida

Manager of Sales Lynne Madorsky perations & Client Relations O

Editor In Chief Brooke McDonald

Digital Editor Anna Carlson

Art Director Erica Barraca

Designer January Thomas Executive Sales Planner Gabrielle Tasiopoulos

Beauty Editor Jenny Muslin

Dining Editor Julie Chernoff

Finance Editor Meghan Streit

Fitness Editor Christy Coughlin

Contributing Writers Rincey Abraham Dorothy Andries Heather Blackmore Amber Gibson Robert Loerzel Olivia Ellis Susan Pasternak Kendra Thornton

Fashion Contributor Tracy Clifford Brian Stanziale Photographer Natalie Hartung Todd Rosenberg

Production Intern Lizzy Croghan Technical Advisor Jennifer Speaker

Senior Account Executives Denise Borkowski

Julie Carter Barbara Baisley Murray

GOT FEEDBACK? Email susan@makeitbetter.net TO ADVERTISE: Contact michellemorris@makeitbetter.net HAVE AN EVENT? Email anna@makeitbetter.net

Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 6 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 1150 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2016

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, 1150 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2016 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

THE TRADITION CONTINUES.

M A R I A N I H O L I D AY S H O P P E OPEN NOVEMBER 19TH TO DECEMBER 18TH 9 A M – 5 P M D A I LY WWW.M A R I A N I L A N D S C A P E . COM

847-234-2172

#MAKEITBETTER

OUR BETTER HALF IS ONLINE:

T H E “ B ET T E R L ET T E R ” E M A I L N E WS L ET T E R : M A K E I T B ET T E R . N ET/S U B S C R I B E MAKEITBETTER.NET

@MAKEITBETTERNS

@MAKEITBETTERNS

MAKEITBETTERMAG

MAKEITBETTER.NET

MAKEITBETTER2009

27 Ways Busy Parents Can Outsource Tasks (and Free Up Time!)

There just never seems to be enough time in the day to get everything done, especially during the holidays. When you need an extra set of hands, turn to these 27 services that help make dinner, pack kids’ lunches, shop for new clothes, do the laundry, fix broken items around the house and more.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/OUTSOURCE

We’ve all been there — you intend to prepare a healthy, home-cooked meal, but that meeting or practice ran late and you’re out of time. Or, you simply don’t want to go out in the cold to grab dinner. Fortunately, there are plenty of services that will bring chef-prepared meals right to your door.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINNER

PHILANTHROPY

FAMILY

Get Involved: 25 Chicago Housing Nonprofits

How Your Career (or Lack of) Impacts Your Children

DINING

16 Chicago Sports Bars Where You Can Get Your Game On ENTERTAINMENT

‘Hamilton’ Flies the W in Chicago

26

BETTER YOU

The Secret to Getting the Salary or Raise You Deserve

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

8 New Cars That Can Handle a Chicago Winter With snow and ice come potentially treacherous driving conditions. Keep you and your family safe on the roads this winter with one of the newest car models merging style, safety and functionality.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/CARS

makeitbetter.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOYOTA

what’s hot on makeitbetter.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF COOKED

Dinner Delivered: Ready Meal Delivery Services in Chicago

Do You Experience: Vaginal dryness Painful intercourse Mild urinary leaking, urgency, and frequency Frequent vaginal infections Vaginal/vulvar itching and burning

MONALISA TOUCH LASER VAGINAL REJUVENATION IS A SAFE AND EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVE TO HORMONE THERAPY OR SURGERY. - In office procedure - 3 treatments < 5 minutes each - Requires no anesthesia - Symptom relief after just one treatment - No downtime - Thousands of women successfully treated since 2012 Don’t trust just any doctor to treat your vaginal health concerns or just any product on the market.

The MonaLisa Touch Laser is the FDA approved laser used and preferred by major University Hospitals such as Stanford, Georgetown, NYU, Vanderbilt, and Northwestern Hospital and is the laser we use at Westmoreland ObGyn Associates. Only Gyn and UroGyn physicians are providers of the MonaLisa Touch “Life-Changing” therapy.

FEEL LIKE YOURSELF AGAIN. CALL FOR A CONSULT TODAY

(ALL PATIENTS WELCOME)

Dr. Kelley London and Dr. Adam Cohan Board Certified Obstetrician-Gynecologists

“The thought of sex with my partner fills me with joy rather than dread” D.D. 9/16 “I am enjoying a better life because of the MonaLisa Touch treatments I would definitely recommend the MonaLisa Touch to anyone” D.T. 10/16 “The MonaLisa Touch treatment has changed my life” J.B. 9/16

847.234.9110 | 900 North Westmoreland Rd. Suite 207 | Lake Forest. IL | www.westmorelandobgyn.com

ON THE COVER E T H E H O L I D AY I S S U

NOVEMBER/DECEM

BER 2016

RTH SHORE CHICAGO AND NO

Joffrey dancer Yumi Kanazawa dazzles in costume from Joffrey’s new production of “The Nutcracker.”

Photography Todd Rosenberg Costume Design Julian Crouch Graphic Design Chirp Design

nutcracker ET'S THE JOFFREY BALL

With special thanks to The Joffrey Ballet

VISION A S PA R K L I N G N E W

See more photos and read all about the new production on page 82.

Nov 18 - Dec 18, 2016

Citadel Theatre Presents Book by Joseph Robinette “A Music Christmas Story” and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Directed

by Paul Robert D Estrin

Nov 18 – Dec 18, 2016 This musical received rave reviews on its Broadway run and is based on the movie classic. Set in the 1940s, it follows Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts—an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200shot Range Model air rifle.

A. PERRY HOMES INVITE YOU TO JOIN THEM FOR A

CHILDRENS’ EVENT

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 AT 3:OO P.M. A. PERRY HOMES 1220 WASHINGTON AVE. WILMETTE, IL

SAVE $5 PER TICKET! USE COUPON CODE CITMIB5 NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

$250 FIRST PRIZE WINNER

($250 TO WINNER’S CHARITY OF CHOICE) $30 PER HOUSE- NO LIMIT PER FAMILY INCLUDES ALL SUPPLIES. (ALL AGES ARE WELCOME.)

A. PERRY HOMES ARCHITECTS

847.735.8554 | citadeltheatre.org 300 S Waukegan | Lake Forest, IL

BUILDERS

REMODELERS

REGISTER AT GINGERBREADCHARITY2016.EVENTBRITE.COM

IM PERIAL E

# W H AT S N E W

Northbrook Nosh Evanston Eats

Evanston has always been a foodie destination, but there’s even more to love now that Alpana Singh’s Terra & Vine opened in late September. Executive Chef Andrew Graves is dishing up rotating Mediterranean cuisine like Wild Mushroom & Artichoke Pizzette and Grilled Swordfish with Eggplant Caponata and Agro Dolce, both featured on the opening menu. Plus, Bar Terra, the 40-seat bar at the restaurant, offers drinks and bar food. TERRA & VINE: 1701 Maple Ave., Evanston, 847-563-4333, terraandvine.com—AC

In October, Granite City Food & Brewery opened in Northbrook’s Willow Festival Shopping Center. In addition to offering seasonal beers, signature Granite City brews include Batch 1000 Double IPA, Bennie German Bock, Broad Axe Oatmeal Stout, Duke Pale Ale and Prairie Vixen Hefeweizen. Plus, you’ll always find the perfect food pairing, like Pulled Pork on Crispy Jalapeño Waffles, Chicken Asparagus Linguine, salmon and more.

GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY: 992 Willow Road, Northbrook, 847-504-0277, gcfb.com—AC

Hammer Time

Oak Street Opening

Razny Jewelers has been a leader in the Chicago area for fine timepieces and custom jewelry for 60 years. Now, as of early November, Razny has a fourth location — their first in Chicago — on Oak Street in the Gold Coast neighborhood.

This three-story stunner is only the second shopping concept of its kind in the U.S. and showcases Razny’s Rolex and Patek Philippe collections. RAZNY JEWELERS: 109 E. Oak St., Chicago, razny.com—AC 30

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Premium men’s clothing brand Hammer Made has opened its first Chicago-area location at Westfield Old Orchard, where it celebrated its grand opening in October.

The Minneapolis-based company combines classic style, quality and affordability, using premium European fabrics. The limited edition (10 new designs are offered each week) shirts have three price points: $98.50, $128.50 and $148.50. HAMMER MADE: Westfield Old Orchard, 4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847675-4616, hammermade.com—OE

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY ALPANA SINGH; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BUSINESS

BY ANNA CARLSON AND OLIVIA ELLIS

From cabinetry to From to tile tocabinetry countertops, tile to countertops, Lewis Floor & Home is Lewis Floor &showroom Home is your designer your showroom for alldesigner your Kitchen & Bath remodeling needs. & Bath for all your Kitchen remodeling needs.

You make it home, we make it beautiful

You make it home, we make it beautiful

1840 Skokie Boulevard, Northbrook, IL 60062 phone: 847.835.2400 www.lewisfloorandhome.com 1840 Skokie Boulevard, Northbrook, IL 60062 CARPET · AREA RUGS · TILE · COUNTERTOPS · HARDWOOD · VINYL FLOORING phone: 847.835.2400 CABINETRY · WINDOW TREATMENTS · GREEN PRODUCTS www.lewisfloorandhome.com

CARPET · AREA RUGS · TILE · COUNTERTOPS · HARDWOOD · VINYL FLOORING CABINETRY · WINDOW TREATMENTS · GREEN PRODUCTS

# R E A L E#SHTOAM TE

Colorful winter foliage arrangements brighten up exteriors, creating a more welcoming first impression for potential buyers.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BUYING AND SELLING A HOME DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

BY JENNY MUSLIN

FOR SELLERS Let the season help the exterior of your home look more enticing. “The exterior is a buyer’s first impression of a home,” says Schulkin. “Instead of packing away your planters, make use of them with winter foliage arrangements of boxwood hedges, red-twig dogwood, dried eucalyptus and winterberry holly or pinecones.”

Take photos prior to listing in the winter while there is still greenery. “It paints a better picture for prospective buyers versus seeing photos of a listing when things are gray and bare,” explains Schwartz.

Don’t forgo holiday decorations, but keep it to a minimum. “Stay simple when staging but know that holiday cheer can lighten the mood and tends to make holiday buying more enjoyable,” Ranquist says. Schulkin adds, “Items such as candles can actually warm up the home and make it feel inviting. If you choose to decorate, focus on items that are more festive to the holidays and try to limit more religious decorations.”

Accommodate buyers who will be seeing your home in snow.“Make sure the driveway is plowed and the walkway is shoveled,” recommends Schulkin. “If possible, put out a bench by the front door so buyers can remove boots easily and put on booties.”

32 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Hire an agent or broker that is reliable, especially during the holiday season. “Use someone that is going to be available for showings and marketing your home, and that is not going on vacation without anyone to help assist with selling your home,” says Schwartz.

Consider virtual tours or video walk-throughs online for prospective buyers. Schwartz has seen how weather can sometimes prohibit buyers from going out to see the house in-person. The more virtual access buyers have, the better.

Sellers should set expectations with their agent about when they absolutely cannot be out of their home for a showing or open house. “Your agent can then communicate this to other brokers,” explains Schwartz.

FOR BUYERS Be aware that A/C units, sprinkler systems and pools cannot be inspected during winter months. “It’s vital that your attorney obtain sellers’ representation and warranty that those items were in good working order the last season they were used,” says Schulkin.

Take advantage of homes that were potentially overpriced during the peak season and now are priced to sell. “There is typically a smaller pool of buyers, so there’s less chance of getting in a bidding war or feeling the pressure to make a quick decision,” Schulkin explains.

As a home buyer, the days your children have off from school for a holiday or winter break can offer the perfect time for the family to see the potential new home together. Schedules are tight for families during the school year. “This can be the ideal time to tackle home buying together,” Ranquist says.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROCCO FIORE & SONS; INSET PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BYRON & CO.

Buying and selling a home is stressful any time of year. Throw in the frenzy of the holiday season and things suddenly get even more complicated. Don’t worry! Expert brokers Lisa Schulkin of @properties, Karen Schwartz of Chicago New Properties and Karen Ranquist of Koenig Rubloff share what you need to know about buying and selling during the holidays.

A. PERRY HOMES ARCHITECTS

BUILDERS

REMODELERS

Maya Marie Perry Third generation of our family business.

Anxious about the Holidays?

When your dream home is designed by A. Perry Homes, preparing for the Holidays is as easy as turning on the lights. As architects, builders, and remodelers for over 30 years, we have awardwinning experience designing the perfect space for casual family gatherings, formal occasions, and everything in between. We consider your family traditions, interests, and lifestyle when designing a custom home or remodel project that ensures your home is the one that everyone expects to host lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most precious moments. Allow us to transform your life. It is what we do best.

To see more of our work, visit our Design Studio or go to aperryhomes.com

6

WWW.MAKEITBETTER.NET

11222200 W WAASSHHI INNGGTTOONN AAVVEE. , W I L M E T T E | A P E R R Y H O M E S . C O M | 8 4 7 . 5 4 9 . 0 6 6 8

#EVENTS

R E C O M M E N D E D

Stay up to date on all the happenings.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/EVENTS

BY ANNA CARLSON

NOVEMBER editor’s pick ZooLights Nov. 25-27, Dec. 2-4, 9-23, 26-31, Jan. 1 NOV Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago | lpzoo.org 25 Lincoln This seasonal event is back and bigger than ever. In addition to extended hours and returning events like BrewLights (Dec. 1), Adults Night Out (Dec. 7) and Family Nights (Dec. 12, 19 and 26), the zoo is introducing a new Holiday Market (Nov. 29).

Visitors can also donate new and gently used winter clothes that will be given to various Chicago charities.

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Weekend Family Class: Sensational Squash Nov. 13 NOV 13 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org/familyprograms Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about different types of squash before making butternut squash soup (vegan and gluten- and nut-free). Plus, families will take home a recipe to use for Thanksgiving or during a relaxing weekend.

Grainger Science Hub Opens Nov. 18 NOV 18 The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago fieldmuseum.org The Field Museum is opening a new permanent space that will bring the museum’s scientists and research out from behind the scenes. Visitors will now be able to meet scientists, get a close-up look at their work, and take part in hands-on activities.

Bling: The Jewelry & Gift Show NOV Nov. 18-20 18 Highland Park Country Club, 1201 Park Ave. W., Highland Park amdurproductions.com Find that perfect holiday gift (or a little something for yourself) at this new shopping festival. More than 50 juried artists will sell jewelry, clothing and accessories.

Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum NOV Nov. 18-Jan. 2 18 The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle | mortonarb.org The Morton Arboretum will once again be lit up with more than a mile of lights and projections. Plus, watch lights move with music performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

34 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF LINCOLN PARK ZOO

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Nov. 18-19 NOV Avenue, Chicago 18 Michigan themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival This annual festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with an additional day of activities, but will still culminate with the spectacular tree-lighting parade down The Magnificent Mile with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Benny the Bull, floats, marching bands, musical performers and more.

#EVENTS

Zadie Smith

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY DOMINIQUE NABOKOV; BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MORTON ARBORTEUM; RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MAGNIFICENT MILE ASSOCIATION

Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum

“The Little Mermaid” NOV Nov. 23-Jan. 8 23 Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora | paramountaurora.com Go “Under the Sea” with Ariel as this Disney favorite comes to life on stage.

Zadie Smith NOV Nov. 30 30 The DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago | dusablemuseum.org The DuSable Museum will host awardwinning writer Zadie Smith for an author talk about her new book, “Swing Time” (available Nov. 15).

DECEMBER

2016 Children’s Ball Dec. 3 Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | luriechildrens.org/crf This year’s Children’s Ball — Moments: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow — will celebrate the Children’s Research Fund’s 25-year affiliation with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Learn more on page 40. Make It Better is a proud media sponsor of this event.

DEC

3

Stevie Nicks Dec. 3 DEC 3 United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago | unitedcenter.com

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Multiple Grammy Award-winner and “Queen of Rock and Roll” (Rolling Stone) Stevie Nicks is bringing her 24 Karat Gold Tour to the United Center.

Stories of Survival and Hope: Overcoming Sexual Violence DEC Dec. 11 11 Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie | ilholocaustmuseum.org The Illinois Holocaust Museum will host this panel discussion on sexual violence as part of the Women Hold Up Half the Sky exhibit. Visit the museum’s website for a complete list of exhibit events.

“The Phantom of the Opera” Dec. 14-Jan. 8 DEC 14 Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago broadwayinchicago.com “Phantom” will return to Chicago with a team that boasts multiple Tony Awards.

Animal Secrets DEC Through Dec. 30 30 Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview kohlchildrensmuseum.org Don’t miss your chance to visit this exhibit where kids can explore habitats and characteristics of animals.

MAKE IT BETTER IS A PROUD MEDIA SPONSOR OF THESE EVENTS: Women’s Business Development Center’s WBDCelebrate Nov. 15 NOV 15 231 S. LaSalle St., Chicago | wbdc30.org

22nd Annual St. Jude Fashion Show: NOV Dream a Little Dream 20 Nov. 20 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont | stjudefashionshow.com Bach Marathon (presented in partnership with The People’s Music School) NOV Nov. 30 30 Various locations | cso.org Chicago Botanic Garden Woman’s Board’s All Aboard!

DEC Dec. 2 2 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe chicagobotanic.org/womansboard/events “The Nutcracker” at Joffrey Ballet Opening Night Performance Dec. 10 DEC 10 Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago | joffrey.org/nutcracker

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

35

#EVENTS

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS

BY ANNA CARLSON

“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” Nov. 10-Dec. 18 Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie | northlight.org “The Nutcracker” Nov. 11-Dec. 30 Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire | marriotttheatre.com “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Nov. 11-Jan. 8 Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago broadwayinchicago.com Pilgrim Platter Workshop Nov. 16 540 Hibbard Road, Winnetka winpark.org “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical” Nov. 17-20 The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago | thechicagotheatre.com Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light Nov. 17-Jan. 8 Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago | msichicago.org The Woman’s Club of Evanston Holiday Bazaar Nov. 18-20 Woman’s Club of Evanston, 1702 Chicago Ave., Evanston | wcofe.org “A Christmas Story: The Musical” Nov. 18-Dec. 18 Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest | citadeltheatre.org Christkindlmarket Nov. 18-Dec. 24 Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago | christkindlmarket.com

36

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

Holiday Thorne Rooms Nov. 18-Dec. 31 Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | artic.edu Randolph Street’s Holiday Market Nov. 19-20, Nov. 26-27, Dec. 10-11 Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington, Chicago | randolphstreetmarket.com “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 19-Dec. 31 Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago | goodmantheatre.org/carol Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24 State Street, beginning at Congress and moving northbound to Randolph, Chicago chicagofestivals.org Wonderland Express Nov. 25-Jan. 2 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe chicagobotanic.org/wonderland Holiday Market Nov. 29 Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago | lpzoo.org Santa’s Magical Trolley Express Various dates Starts and ends at Little Beans Cafe, 430 Asbury Ave., Evanston santasmagicaltrolley.com

DECEMBER

“It’s a Wonderful Life — A Live Radio Play” Dec. 1-30 Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview | oillamptheater.org Breakfast With Santa Dec. 3 Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka winnetkacommunityhouse.org

makeitbetter.net

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Polar Palooza Dec. 3-4 Loyola CTA Station Plaza, 1200 W. Loyola Ave., Chicago | starevents.com Holiday Magic Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 26-31 Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield | czs.org The Polar Express Story Time Train Dec. 3, 10 Highland Park Downtown Metra Station, 2700 St. Johns Ave., Highland Park | pdhp.org Winter WonderFest Dec. 3-Jan. 8 Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago navypier.com Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular Dec. 10 Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont | rosemont.com Christopher Wheeldon’s “Nutcracker” Dec. 10-30 Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago | joffrey.org/nutcracker Harry Shearer & Judith Owen’s Christmas Without Tears Dec. 11 Space, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston evanstonspace.com Hanukkah Concert Dec. 29 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org New Year’s Eve Bash Dec. 31 Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | kohlchildrensmuseum.org

PHOTO BY J.B. SPECTOR/MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, CHICAGO

NOVEMBER

Photograph by Les Stone.

COMPELLING STORIES OF ORDINARY WOMEN LE ADING THE MOVEMENT T O W A R D F U L L E Q U A L I T Y.

SEPTEMBER 25, 2016 – JANUARY 2 2 , 2017 Special exhibition at Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie

ilholocaustmuseum.org

Underwritten by William and Mary Lane Additional support from the Max and Sunny Howard Memorial Foundation

EXPLORE NATURE’S WAY OF TEACHING. In Kohl Children’s Museum’s newest exhibit Animal Secrets (open through Dec 30), families can uncover the hidden habitats and secret lives of forest animals to see nature from the point of view of our furry and feathered friends. Let curiosity be your guide as you discover why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives.

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago • 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview • (847) 832-6600 • kcmgc.org

ywca.org/evanston

#StandUp4Women

#MAKEADIFFERENCE

Attendees participate in the auction at last year’s Children’s Ball (above) 2016 Children’s Ball co-chairs (left to right): Pam Netzky and Ashley Hemphill Netzky, and Ann Amboian and John Amboian.

MOMENTS MADE POSSIBLE

BY SUSAN B . NOYE S

For 65 years, the Children’s Research Fund has been transforming futures through support for medical research — making everyday moments possible for countless patients. This year the organization will celebrate an important anniversary at a very special event.

There is so much for the 1,000-plus guests to celebrate, including already raising more than $67 million to fund research that led to significant advancements in the treatment of many illnesses.

They’re poised for even greater impact too, providing opportunities for grateful families to give back, creating hopeful futures for young patients, and showcasing success stories.

As medical knowledge has become more sophisticated, so have CRF initiatives. The funds raised at this ball and in future initiatives are more likely than ever to help develop “precision medicine” — tailoring treatments to the specific conditions and needs of individual patients.

Pam Netzky and Ashley Hemphill Netzky and Ann and John Amboian are co-chairs of the 2016 Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball. In a conversation with Make It Better, they, along with CRF Executive Vice Chair Donna G. Drescher, explain their passion for this cause.

Pam: Children’s Ball proceeds support the hospital’s Precision Medicine initiative, which is charged with speeding the search for cancer cures and accelerating the potential of immunotherapy as the next-generation standard of cancer care for children.

Donna: I’m a grateful parent. My son was diagnosed at age 16 with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). It is almost impossible to describe the overwhelming impact of being told your child has a life-altering, possibly life-ending, illness! The state of confusion, concern, uncertainty, unpreparedness all culminating with the need to deal with the toughest decisions you will ever have to make. Where do you go? Who do you rely on?

40 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Lurie Children’s is a very special place. The technical expertise is the best! But also every interaction we had with all staff was expert, professional, compassionate, and put our son first.

Now my son is 37, married and the father of two beautiful boys!

Originally I got involved as a way to give back to the institution that saved our son’s life. Now I’m also excited to realize that with this I make a difference in the lives of other children affected by all sorts of terrible childhood diseases.

John: CRF donations are critical to the mission of Lurie Children’s as an extremely reliable source of funding for primary research by many of the world’s leading researchers based here. This initial philanthropic investment usually garners additional funds from other sources.

Ann: One of our best examples of the efficiency and effectiveness of CRF funding is the work of Dr. Christine DiDonato. She received early grants from CRF to support her research on spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), an incurable disease. Subsequently the National Institute of Health (NIH) awarded $1.3 million to advance this work. Now the first drug to treat SMA is up for FDA approval, after clinical trials led by Lurie Children’s.

Donna: Past balls have included a 7-year-old cancer survivor who “danced up a storm,” a high school cystic fibrosis patient heading to college, [and] a kidney patient who had received a transplant from his own mom. At this year’s ball, we will meet two more patients who benefitted directly from CRF funding.

With advances in research, the possibilities are endless. We need to do for the children of the future what people did for our own children!

Visit childrensresearchfund.org for more information about the 2016 Children’s Ball.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH FUND

On Dec. 3, the Children’s Research Fund (CRF) will celebrate its 25th anniversary as a principal benefactor of the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Lurie Children’s with the 2016 Children’s Ball, “Moments: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow.”

BRING IT HOME TO A BANK

WHERE EVERY ATM IS FREE .

We believe in a world where every ATM, nationwide, is free. We’ve all had cash emergencies and you can’t always be picky about what ATM will save the day. Bring it home to a bank that offers free ATMs nationwide.

GET FREE ATMS WITH

TOTAL ACCESS CHECKING! Only $100 required to open.

Use any ATM nationwide and we’ll refund the fee!1 For a limited time

GET $100!

directly deposited into your new account when you open a new Total Access Checking Account by 12/31/16, enroll in e-statements, and we receive a direct deposit by 1/31/17.2

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BANKING! www.wintrust.com/findus

directly deposited into your new account when you open a new Total Access Checking Account by 3/31/16 and enroll in e-statements and we receive a direct deposit 4/30/16.3 As a company made in this area, for this area, Wintrust and its family of true community banks is dedicated to the unique neighborhoods each serves.

WE’RE PROUD TO BRING ITbyHOME.

For 25 years, we’ve been banks that invest in, give back to, and get to really know our communities and the people living in them. When you bank with a Wintrust Community Bank, you can be confident your money is going back into the things that matter most to you.

Banking products provided by Wintrust Financial Corp. Banks. 1. The bank does not charge its customers a monthly card usage fee. No transaction charge at any ATM in the Allpoint, MoneyPass, or Sum surcharge-free networks. Other banks outside the network may impose ATM surcharges at their machines. Surcharge fees assessed by owners of other ATMs outside the network will be reimbursed.

Reimbursement does not include the 1.10% International Service fee charged for certain foreign transactions conducted outside the continental United States. 2. Limit one per customer. $100 deposit bonus is IRS 1099-INT reportable. $100 deposit bonus applies only to new Total Access Checking customers. $100 deposit bonus will be deposited into Total Access Checking account by 3/1/17. Employees of Wintrust Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries are ineligible.

HIGHLY ANTICIPATED WORLD PREMIERE

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF CHICAGO’S MYSTERIOUS 1893 WORLD’S FAIR THROUGH THE EYES OF A CHILD IN THE JOFFREY’S ASTOUNDING NEW NUTCRACKER — BRILLIANTLY REIMAGINED BY ® TONY AWARD -WINNING CHOREOGRAPHER CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON

CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON’S

NUTCRACKER THE NUTCRACKER PRODUCING SPONSORS

Margot and Josef Lakonishok Hancher Auditorium, University of Iowa

DECEMBER 10–30 | TICKETS START AT $35 JOFFREY.ORG/NUTCRACKER | 312.386.8905 G RO U P S O F 10+ C A LL 312 .423.6 612

THE NUTCRACKER CORPORATE SPONSORS

SEASON SPONSORS

OFFICIAL PROVIDER OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

PERFORMS AT:

50 East Congress Parkway, Chicago

#GIFTGUIDE

The joy that a thoughtful gift gratefully received brings to the giver is unparalleled. But why does finding that perfect gift have to be so stressful? It doesn’t! From techies to foodies, youngsters to the young at heart, we’ve got great ideas for absolutely everyone on your list.

www.makeitbetter.net/gifts Please note that prices are average retail and are rounded to the nearest dollar. Photos courtesy of each manufacturer.

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Tiffany & Co. Tiffany T Two Ring Inspired by the timeless aesthetic of New York, these chic rings are brand new to the Tiffany & Co. collection and sure to add some holiday sparkle to your hand.

Starting at $1,600; tiffany.com

BY JENNY MUSLIN AND BROOKE MCDONALD

Whether you’re shopping for your mom, friend, sister or even compiling your own wish list, these glam finds will make any woman feel extra special.

Blow Dry Package A blowout gift certificate, or better yet a blowout membership, is an ideal gift for the busy woman who could use a little pampering. Pair the gift card with Mario Tricoci’s new Perfect Blowout leave-in treatment ($29) for a themed package.

Starting at $30-35; blowdryboutiques.com; bloouts.com; mariotricoci.com

Yogitoes Vitality Yoga Towel Even the yogi who has everything will be thrilled to have another yoga towel to put into rotation. This soft, absorbent one by Manduka features patented Skidless technology to prevent slipping and sliding during even the sweatiest of hot yoga classes. $70, manduka.com

Gucci Logo-Print Wool Scarf The fringe-trimmed classic logo scarf in soft gray and pink adds flair to a crisp blouse with jeans or takes your winter coat up a notch. $330; neimanmarcus.com

Restoration Hardware Ultimate Luxury Plush Foot Duvets Want to know who makes the coziest slippers you’ll ever sink your feet into? Restoration Hardware’s duvet slippers are only available during the holiday season and tend to fly off the shelves. Available in a variety of colors, these down-filled booties will keep your toes warm and become your new favorite lounging accessory. $19, restorationhardware.com

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

43

#GIFTGUIDE

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Tiffany & Co. CT60® Bicolor Chronograph 42 mm watch Tiffany’s newest men’s watch, chic in stainless steel or 18k rose gold, features a second time zone, perfect for guys who are always on the go.

Price upon request; tiffany.com

BY BROOKE MCDONALD

Tools, sports, cars, watches, beer — and a great shave.

Not to pigeonhole your guy and his preferences, but we’re pretty sure there’s something on this list he’ll love.

Leatherman Tread What guy doesn’t consider a Leatherman a must-have in his tool arsenal? Now it’s easier than ever to take this functionality on the go. The Leatherman Tread packs a possible 29 tools into a single customizable bracelet that looks cool and is endlessly useful. $220, leatherman.com

Automatic Pro Data-obsessed car lovers will go crazy for this 3G-connected car adapter that provides information on everything from location tracking to fuel efficiency, safety and crash alerts, and engine light diagnostics.

It also integrates seamlessly with dozens of other third-party apps. $130; automatic.com

Beer Cap Map Give the craft beer aficionado in your life the perfect medium for cataloguing their favorite brews.

This beer cap map lets beer lovers turn their beer cap collection into attractive wall art. Available in state, country and world maps. Starting at $29; beercapmaps.com

Slingbox M2 Perfect for the sports nut transplanted from their hometown or for frequent business travelers who can’t bear to miss a game or favorite show, the Slingbox M2 connects to your TV (or your parents’ or friends back home) and allows you to view programming remotely. Also a great gift for college kids. $100, slingbox.com

Peppermint Shave Cream The Art of Shaving’s bestselling shave cream is available in a limited edition holiday peppermint scent.

The silky, moisturizing lather leaves skin smooth to the touch and smelling like a candy cane. $25, theartofshaving.com

44

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

#GIFTGUIDE

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

What’s sure to please everyone on your list?

One of these gifts for the food- and drink-obsessed.

Brindille Cooking Class Chef Carrie Nahabedian (NAHA, Brindille) teams with pastry chef Craig Harzewski for luxe cooking classes, held on select Saturdays at River North’s Brindille. Learn to make a three-course dinner party menu, followed by a wine luncheon in the restaurant. $350 per person; brindille-chicago.com

Michelin Gift Box What sane young adult, tired of takeout and yearning to try new things, wouldn’t love the Try the World subscription box?

Each month brings a different destination — think Morocco, Argentina or Italy — to your door. This holiday, celebrate in style with the Michelin gift box. $35 per box (includes shipping); trytheworld.com

Personalized Champagne In 2014, Jay Z (yes, that Jay Z!) bought the great Armand de Brignacs Champagne house, and the bling has been upped.

Each metallized bottle comes in a black lacquer wooden gift box, and can be personalized with an engraved plate.

Gold Brut $250, Rosé, $495; reservebar.com

"Cocktail with a Twist" Gift Set This gift set from The Storied Table is both practical and chic.

It includes an Azizi decanter, four Ariel glasses, Burton bowl and Nelly tray. You’ll never go thirsty again! $259, thestoriedtable.com

Cocoa + Co. Chocolate Basket A chocoholic’s dream: This metal basket from Old Town’s Cocoa + Co. filled with a curated collection of artisan chocolate bars, sauces, spreads, drinking chocolate, and confections, all tied up with a silver ribbon. $65 and $100; cocoaandco.com

Misericordia Sweet Basket It’s a win-win! The only thing better than eating a basketful of sweet treats is knowing that the residents of Misericordia have made the delicious cookies, brownies and sweet breads within — with love. Deluxe gift box, $65.95; misericordia.com

CH Distillery West Loop’s CH Distillery is more than just a hip cocktail bar; you can actually tour the facility and watch the magic happen. The distillery tour includes “The Tradition,” a toast with ice-cold CH Vodka, complete with Russian rye bread and pickles. Great merch, too. Tour $15, Center 100 Vodka Artist Bottle, $150; chdistillery.com

#GIFTGUIDE

BY JENNY MUSLIN

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Don’t forget about your furry friends. These pet gifts are sure to earn you extra cuddles.

Doggie-lebrity Books For the fashionable canine, a book from a doggie-lebrity makes a fun addition to the coffee table. “ToastHampton: How to Summer in Style” ($17) follows the summer adventures of Instagram star Toast, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, while “Neville Jacobs: I’m Marc’s Dog” ($23) showcases photos of Marc Jacobs’ beloved pooch with various celebrities. amazon.com

Haute Diggity Dog Toys From Chewy Vuitton to Starbarks, your dog will be the trendiest pup in town when playing with these soft designer parody chew toys. $13-$16, tailsinthecity.com

iFetch These award-winning tech toys will keep Fido busy for hours. The automatic ball launcher comes in a variety of models dependent on the size of your dog.

Adjustable launch distance makes it perfect for indoor or outdoor play. Starting at $40, goifetch.com Huggle Hounds Toys These snuggly, durable and machine-washable dog toys come in a variety of animals as well as festive winter-themed toys for the holidays. $7, petstuff.com

DJ Cat Scratching Pad Let your cat show off his music-making skills with this funky scratch pad turntable. $35, uncommongoods.com

BY JENNY MUSLIN

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Icy Chicago winters mean lots of time inside, so spice up your home with some clever décor and the latest appliances.

MOVA Globe The perfect gift for the world traveler’s home base, MOVA Globes remain mesmerizingly and continuously in motion through the use of ambient light and the earth’s magnetic field. A great conversation piece for a living room or office. Starting at $125; movainternational.com

Ninja Coffee Bar Versatility and customization are the names of the game with Ninja’s newest coffee maker that truly does it all.

Brew the perfect size and strength of coffee for every drink, from classic drip to milk-based (frother included!), iced or frozen blended. Starting at $140; ninjakitchen.com

Dyson Hot + Cool The ultimate heater in the winter and fan in the summer, the sleek and modern Dyson Hot + Cool produces quiet, smooth and powerful airflow, perfectly heating or cooling the room, depending on your needs.

It has a sleep timer for those cold winter nights and is also great for warming up chilly bathrooms before a morning shower! $450, dyson.com

Lorena Canals Rug Beautiful and super soft, the best part about handmade Lorena Canals rugs is they’re machine washable in a conventional home washing machine.

No more stressing about keeping baby’s play space clean or bigger kids tracking dirt everywhere. Starting at $200; lorenacanals.us

#GIFTGUIDE

BY BROOKE MCDONALD

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

From babies to big kids, here are some great gifts for warming and engaging young bodies and minds.

Kickee Pants Pajamas Okay, so your child probably won’t be thrilled to find clothes under the tree, but that will all change when they feel how comfy Kickee Pants are. From adorable footed jammies for newborns to perfect play clothes for children up to age 10, parents and kids alike will get hooked on this awesome line. Prices vary by item, kickeepants.com

Finn + Emma Play Gym The perfect baby play gym for the eco-conscious home, the Finn + Emma Play Gym’s birch wood frame is non-toxic, phthalate- and VOC-free. Little ones will love the detachable Indian hardwood toys, and organic cotton hand-knit rattle toys. $135, finnandemma.com

Molecube Give your child a toy that works their brain.

The Molecube is a brainteaser cube of colorful spheres; the goal is to ensure that no two of the same color appear twice on any one side. Great for sudoku lovers. $20; fatbraintoys.com

Tyco Terra Climber Kids aged 8 and up will love conquering stairs, rocks and hills with this remote-control creature with a super cool, extendable 2-foot-long tail. Parents will love that it comes with rechargeable batteries and a charger. $100; target.com

Tegu Blocks Tegu blocks take traditional wooden blocks to the next level. Kids of all ages — and even their parents — will find themselves spending hours building and creating with these addictively fun magnetic blocks made from responsibly sourced wood. $110, tegu.com

Monica + Andy Muslin Blanket Cotton muslin baby blankets are all the rage, but this soft and cozy double-layer organic version from Chicago-based children’s line Monica + Andy is our absolute favorite. Not just for swaddling newborns, these blankets are warm and large enough to make great stroller blankets, sure to be snuggled and treasured by babies and bigger kids alike. $65; monicaandandy.com

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

47

Give Thanks & Gather at

BREAKFAST

Thanksgiving

with

SATURDAYS DECEMBER 3, 10 & 17

Brunch & Dinner

8:30-10:30AM

Santa Reservations

847-664-7999

Breakfast Buffet • Pictures with Santa Decorate Your Own Holiday Cookies!

Thursday, November 24

Brunch 10am-4pm | Dinner 6pm-8pm

Now Accepting Reservations

847-664-7999

2855 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, Il chicagonorthbrook.hilton.com

2855 North Milwaukee Ave. | Northbrook, IL

Gala

New Year’s Eve

NYE GALA PACKAGE Butler Passed Hors d’Oeuvres • Decadent Four Course Dinner Wine Service with Dinner • 5 Hour Open Bar & Champagne Toast at Midnight • Party Hats & Favors • Non-Stop Dancing with an Elite DJ Deluxe Overnight Accommodations • Late Check-Out of 2pm

OTHER PACKAGE OPTIONS AVAILABLE - www.nyechicagoland.com FOR MORE INFO & RESERVATIONS CALL OUR

NYE HOTLINE 847.509.7072

Hilton Chicago-Northbrook

2855 N. Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL

Massage table, that is.

Share wellness with the one you love at Grand Geneva’s WELL Spa + Salon. You’ll find that bliss is better together, with sensational couples’ massages and other soothing treatments for two.

Book your massage today at GrandGenevaWellSpa.com

THE MIDWEST’S PREMIER VACATION DESTINATION

GrandGeneva.com

7036 Grand Geneva Way | Lake Geneva, WI 53147 | (800) 558 - 3417

#GIFTGUIDE

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Paint Together, Frame It Beautifully Book time at Pinot’s Palette, visit the art studio at the Chicago Children’s Museum , or pull out paper and paints at home. Don’t sweat the details either. Once dry, give it just as important a frame as your living room art. Itwill become your favorite piece. Pinotspalette.com; chicagochildrensmuseum.org

South Pacific-Style Luxury With A Side Of Mickey Treat your family to a VIP Walt Disney World vacation.

You’ll feel like you’re in Bora Bora but only a quick boat or monorail trip to the Magic Kingdom when you stay in one of the brand new over-the-water bungalows that sit over the Seven Seas Lagoon at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. Visit the parks with your own personal Disney VIP Tour Guide. Enjoy exclusive experiences, ride your favorite rides and watch parades and fireworks from special reserved viewing areas. Disneyworld.disney.go.com

PHOTO BY CINDY MANNING

PHOTO BY ANDREW JORGENSEN

Stay With French Royalty Chateau de la Barre in the Loire Valley has been the ancestral family home of Count and Countess de Vanssay for more than 610 years. With a 100-acre private park and rooms uniquely decorated with antiques and family portraits, it’s now a luxury boutique hotel unlike any other. The Vanssays personally welcome you and help you discover other Loire Valley charms too. Learn more: Royal Travel & Tours, 815-217-0608; royal-travel.com; chateaudelabarre.com

BY SUSAN B . NOYES

More than ever, we crave unique experiences. There is no better present to yourself or your loved ones than the gift of your time experiencing or creating something unique and wonderful together. These recommendations range from the inexpensive to the "If you have to ask, you can’t afford it,” but really, all are priceless indeed.

Music As Adventure Enjoy live music together. If the kids in your life are under 15, treat them and yourself to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Family Matinee Series.

If they’re 15 or older, take them for a few days to our country’s best music festival — Bonnaroo, outside Nashville. Yes, really. You will have just as much fun as your teen and make memories like no others. cso.org; bonnaroo.com

PHOTO BY YOUNG EXPLORERS

Explore Galapagos With National Geographic Society The Galapagos Islands need to be at the top of your family travel to exotic locations list. Nowhere else in the world can you walk and swim alongside an astonishing array of animals unfazed by your presence. No other organization has the breadth and depth of expertise that the National Geographic Society has to make a 10-day trip like their Family Odyssey a most amazing experience.

Learn more: Lake Shore Travel, 847-835-5090, lakeshoretravel.com; nationalgeographicexpeditions.com

Private Tour Of The Sistine Chapel And Other Vatican Treasures Everyone should visit the Vatican at least once. Unfortunately though, a visit normally requires enduring long lines and constant crowds — unless you hire a private guide. And that is exactly what you should do in order to best experience the magnificence and history of the Sistine Chapel, where papal enclaves, surrounded by some of the greatest Renaissance artwork in the world, have met for centuries to select the next pope.

It is as breathtakingly beautiful as it is historic. Learn more: Lake Shore Travel, 847-835-5090, lakeshoretravel.com; sistinechapeltours.org; icbellagio.com

Family Safari in Botswana Visit some of the finest reserves in the world in malaria-free zones, enjoy safari experiences specially designed for families with children, and get up close and personal with elephants and a cheetah ambassador named Sylvester. Learn more: Royal Travel & Tours, 815-217-0608, royal-travel.com

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

49

#GIFTGUIDE

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

SPONSORED CONTENT

From the best in beauty to stylish accessories and indulgent treats, your search for a sure-to-please gift stops here.

CLARINS Gift Sets at Teddie Kossof Salon Spa Give the gift of ultimate luxury skin care with CLARINS gift sets. With several beauty kits to choose from, there’s a perfect option for every beauty lover on your list.

Starting at $50; Teddie Kossof Salon Spa, 281 Waukegan Road, Northfield, 847-999-9500, teddiekossof.com

AlphaRet™ Overnight Cream From Magdalena MedSpa The new gold standard in anti-aging efficacy, this retinoland tretinoin-free miracle face cream contains a new proprietary molecular entity that tackles the appearance of lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone with little to no irritation. $110; Magdalena European Med Spa, 272 Deerpath, Lake Forest, 847-432-4111, magdalenamedspa.com

The Giveback Kitchen’s Chocolate Fudge Sauces Available in five flavors, The Giveback Kitchen’s decadent chocolate fudge sauces are lovingly hand crafted without corn syrup or preservatives.

The best part? A portion of sales goes to Make-A-Wish Illinois. $9; The Giveback Kitchen, 847-651-6613, givebackkitchen.com

Cow Hide Clutch From Londo Mondo The perfect finishing touch to any holiday party ensemble, each of these fabulous cow hide clutches from Londo Mondo is one of a kind. Designed and made locally, they’re topped off with a Swarovski crystal button closure, adding a hint of seasonal sparkle. $143; Londo Mondo, 558 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 224-255-6466; londomondo.com

Love Your Melon Beanie From la de da!

Love Your Melon is dedicated to giving a hat to every child battling cancer in America and supports nonprofit organizations who lead the fight against pediatric cancer.

Available in assorted colors. 100% cotton. Made in USA. $30, la de da!, 1957 Cherry Lane, Northbrook, 847-562-1170, ladedagift.com

50

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Luxury and Results at EGEA Spa Evanston Renew and hydrate your face and hands with a HydroPeptide™ Blueberry Peel Facial and a gLOVE™ Paraffin Hand Treatment.

EGEA Spa, 1521 Sherman Peppermint Shave Cream Ave. Evanston, 847-332The Art of Shaving’s bestsell2772, www.egeaspa.com ing shave cream is available in a limited edition holiday peppermint scent. The silky, moisturizing lather leaves skin smooth to the touch and smelling like a candy cane. $25, theartofshaving.com

#GIFTGUIDE

BY JENNY MUSLIN

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Whether you’re purchasing a gift for a “techie” or for someone looking to modernize their home, these gadgets are sure to please.

Sonos These sleek wireless speakers have superior sound quality and connect to your WiFi network, allowing you to stream your favorite tunes from any room of your house or even outdoors. $200-500; sonos.com

Nest Cam Indoor Whether you’re looking for extra protection from a burglary or want to keep an eye on your kids when they’re in another room, the Nest Cam is the perfect wireless solution. It streams directly to your phone and records everything so you don’t miss a thing. $200; nest.com

Tile Original Everyone’s prone to losing their keys or phone.

Stick the lightweight, compact Tile on your key ring, phone, luggage or remote control and its speakers let out a loud melody that enables you to find what you’re looking for, even if your phone is on silent. $25; thetileapp.com.

Amazon Echo Amazon’s voice-activated virtual assistant “Alexa” seems like it came straight out of “The Jetsons.” The Echo does it all: streams music, tells you your commute time, gives you the weather report, sets alarms, and best of all, pairs with the other smart devices in your home. You don’t even need to pick up the phone to order a pizza! $180; amazon.com

2016 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Veronica Beard Blazer Perfect for the traveler who doesn’t like a lot of checked luggage, the Veronica Beard blazer is well constructed, won’t wrinkle and features an ingenious design detail — an interchangeable dickey — which allows you to create various day-to-night looks by zipping in a simple under layer such as a cashmere hoodie, Moncler-inspired puffer or moto leather collar. Available in sizes 0 – 14. Starting at $545; kristak.com.

Braava Jet The latest innovation from the creators of the Roomba vacuum is the Braava Jet, a mopping robot that cleans your hardwood floors and tackles stains in hard-to-reach places. Whether you want to wet mop or simply dust, a click of a button lets the Braava do all the work for you.

Can be paired with the iRobot HOME App for both Android and iOS users. $200; irobot.com

BY KENDR A THORNTON

Exceptional travel gear perfectly blends form and function. Travel Expert Kendra Thornton shares her top gifts for the wanderluster in your life.

Mer-Sea Travel Wrap Every traveler needs the perfect wrap to stay cozy during long flights, and while enjoying tropical breezes or urban chilly evenings. Mer-Sea makes gorgeous travel wraps in three great styles: Classic, Thinny and Linen. $68 - $110; www.merseaco.com

TUMI Toiletry Kit For the traveler who likes a lot of products, this TUMI toiletry kit has tons of individual compartments to keep things separated and organized. And if a lotion or toothpaste accidentally opens, it won’t leak all over the other contents. $95; worldtraveler.com

PJ Harlow Pajamas For home-away-fromhome comfort, the traveler in your life will love a set of pajamas from PJ Harlow. Available in many colors, styles and fabrics, these pajamas pack and travel well and help you sleep as comfortably as if you were in your own bed. Starting at $54; pjharlow.com

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

51

# T R AV E L

TAKE OFF

5 MUST-VISIT DESTINATIONS A DIRECT FLIGHT FROM CHICAGO

BY AMBER GIBSON

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a two-week trip to a foreign country, these dream destinations are a direct flight from Chicago. No lengthy layovers to tire you out, no chance of your bag getting lost halfway, and no worries about missing your connecting flight!

In Mayakoba, three world-class resorts are nestled within carefully preserved mangroves. A fourth, Hyatt’s Andaz, opens in December. Rosewood and Banyan Tree (the Thai brand’s first North American property) are the most impressive, with very different styles but a similar attention to detail and level of service that surpass everything else in Riviera Maya.

Upon checking in at both, you’re offered a chilled glass of sweet green juice — chaya, the Mayan drink of life. Suites at both resorts are spacious yet intimate with outdoor pools and elegant interiors. Rosewood has a lighter feel, constructed with limestone, while villas at Banyan Tree fuse Asian design with Mexican details.

Dedication to sustainability is apparent throughout — from Domenico Vacca toiletries in glass vials at Rosewood to complimentary bikes for guests. Explore the charming El Pueblito town square and work up an appetite for Punta Bonita’s tacos and tlayuda during the day and Casa del Lago’s Italian-Mexican fusion or Saffron’s authentic Thai cuisine at Banyan Tree come evening.

Kayak through the lagoons and marvel at the flora and fauna thriving in the clear waters. While dad is playing a round of golf on the stunning El Cameleón course (home to the only PGA tour event in Mexico and a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary), mom will enjoy relaxing at the spa.

Open your mind and heart to the Kuxtal Sensory Garden Ritual at Sense, a Rosewood Spa. Meditate and intuition will guide you to choose a plant for your customized massage. Afterwards refresh with a flute of hibiscus juice while listening to the waterfalls and birds. Banyan Tree Spa is renowned for its skilled Thai-trained therapists, but the stingless Mexican honey bee steals the show in the Melipona Honey Bliss body treatment.

52

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

2 ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

This hippy, liberal bastion in conservative North Carolina is full of artisanal food, breweries and quirky shops nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stay downtown at the five-room bed and breakfast Bunn House for a true taste of Southern hospitality, with five-star modern amenities in a restored brick mansion.

Explore Asheville’s renowned arts district with glass artist John Almaguer and Asheville Art Studio Tours. You can eat tasty neighborhood fare with Michael Hofman off his own handcrafted porcelain dishes or try your hand at glassblowing in John’s own studio. Then treat your tired feet to some pampering at Wake Foot Sanctuary & Spa. Have dinner at Red Stag Grill for great game meats or Smoky Park Supper Club for wood-grilled everything. This shipping container restaurant under a highway pass is not one you’d normally stumble upon, but after your first handful of spicy sweet bacon crackerjack, you’ll be addicted. End the evening with dessert at French Broad Chocolate Lounge, where they import cacao beans to painstakingly make all the chocolate for a plethora of bonbons, gelato, pastries and cakes.

You could spend an entire day or two traipsing the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate, the private Victorian-era residence of George and Edith Vanderbilt. House tours will appeal to history buffs and Downton Abbey fans while kids have plenty of activities to choose from including horseback and carriage rides, a petting zoo at Antler Village and motoring around the grounds on a Segway.

3 VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Nature is at your fingertips in this friendly city surrounded by the ocean, mountains and forests. Even the downtown area is relaxed and cheerful instead of hectic and businesslike.

Maybe it’s because they have the mildest climate in Canada and some of the best seafood anywhere. Definitely spend some time enjoying Stanley Park (it’s even bigger than Central Park in New York!), whether by bike or on foot. Talasay Tours leads a unique hike from a First Nations perspective.

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA; BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SHANGHAI; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL MCCLENDON

1 MAYAKOBA, MEXICO

Flying into Cancun’s crowded airport and seeing Señor Frog’s face staring at you, it’s hard to imagine that just 40 minutes away is a lush mangrove ecosystem home to the most luxurious resorts in Mexico.

# T R AV E L

Mayakoba, Mexico

Shanghai, China

Asheville, North Carolina

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

53

# T R AV E L

Portland, Oregon

For your seafood fix, dine at the Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Lobby Lounge raw bar for sustainable and creative maki, nigiri and sashimi including a signature kabayaki house-cured sablefish.

YEW Seafood + Bar is another great option for quintessential Pacific Northwest fare. Start with the tacklebox for a seasonal selection of the freshest marinated, steamed and raw seafood.

It’s the Vancouver answer to charcuterie and cheese, although British Columbia makes great cheese too. You’ll find some at Granville Public Market, along with a distillery, brewery and silk, glass and ceramic artist studios.

For amazing art, the Vancouver Art Gallery and smaller Bill Reid Gallery that focuses on First Nations artwork are within just a few blocks and the historic Gastown neighborhood is home to several fantastic galleries as well. Swing by East Van Roasters for bean-to-bar chocolate and coffee followed by L’Abattoir in the evening for a cocktail (try the avocado gimlet) and contemporary French food in a chic yet rustic space.

When it’s time to rest, Four Seasons Vancouver is the full package, with excellent food at YEW, a hidden gem of a massage spa suite and the most helpful staff. Alternatively, splurge for one of 10 brand new owner’s suites at the sleek and modern Fairmont Pacific Rim. Record players in each suite come with a stack of vinyl curated to your taste and on weekends there’s live music in the lobby lounge until 1 a.m.

4 PORTLAND, OREGON

This city is foodie heaven. From sandwiches at Lardo to soft serve at newly opened Wiz Bang Bar to a lively rooftop dinner party at Departure, it’s hard to have a bad bite. Luckily it’s easy to be active here too. Stay at Kimpton’s Hotel Vintage, where you can rent complimentary bikes and go for a ride to Mount Tabor Park. Reward yourself with brunch at Coquine and try their buttermilk buckwheat biscuits and hazelnut cocoa nib granola parfait. The Hairy Lobster and Han Oak are a couple of newer favorites worth trying as well.

If you have a few extra days, get out to wine country. The Willamette Valley is just a 45-minute drive from the city.

Pinot noirs and chardonnays from Bergstrom and Adelsheim are often compared to Burgundy, and there’s great sparkling wine from the likes of ROCO Winery, Soter Vineyards and

54

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Argyle as well. Stay at The Allison Inn & Spa, the only fivestar resort around, and appreciate an impressive collection of Oregon art and lush landscaping, including a garden whose bounty you’ll surely savor during dinner at JORY Restaurant.

5 SHANGHAI, CHINA

This global financial capital is the most populous city in Asia and best visited during autumn to avoid the rainy spring and hot summer. Both Four Seasons Shanghai Pudong and Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai are excellent choices in a city teeming with luxury hotels. The Pudong property is smaller, with 187 rooms and sleek modern décor in the financial district. The Four Seasons in Puxi (west of the Huangpu River) was the first Four Seasons in China when it opened in 2002, located in the historic and cultural heart of the city, and the property just completed an extensive renovation in February.

The black granite floors and lacquered aged elm wood at Qin the Spa are a stark contrast to the bright, warm tones in the guestrooms and lobby. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to ancient China until a technologically advanced ESPA facial brings you back to present day.

Shopping abounds, whether you’re looking for a custom-made qipao dress or any other bespoke garments at the fabric market.

The gorgeous silk scarves at WOO depict lush mountain landscapes and lotus blossoms. There’s a brand new Disney resort, just opened in June for the kids, and more serious culture mavens will enjoy the incredible array of Chinese sculptures, painted porcelain, jade and calligraphy at Shanghai Museum in People’s Square.

Take a walking tour of this Shikumen neighborhood with one of China’s most famous photographers, Wang Gangfeng.

He grew up here during the Cultural Revolution and will show you a side of Shanghai that tourists don’t get to see.

The Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai can arrange a private tour.

Dine at Shàng-Xí for an elegant, intimate and authentic Chinese meal including the best steamed shrimp dumplings and supreme seafood soup I’ve ever had. Or cobble together dinner from the snacks on Wujiang Road. Vegetarians will savor the Chinese delicacies including countless rare and exotic mushrooms at Fu He Hui. For links to the websites of all of the businesses referenced, please visit MAKEITBETTER.NET/DIRECTFLIGHTS

LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF FAIRMONT PACIFIC RIM; RIGHT PHOTO BY DAVID PHELPS

Vancouver, British Columbia

Discover The Glen Town Center LIFE in STYLE!

fun

winter fashion fo o d film

derland

VISITS WITH SANTA, LIVE REINDEER, CRAFTS & MORE!

SHOP VON MAUR - DICK'S SPORTING GOODS - ULTA - JOS. A. BANK

JUSTICE - GAMESTOP - GLENVIEW JEWELERS - THE BOOK MARKET & MORE!

DINE OVER 20 DINING OPTIONS & FREE VALET PARKING EVERY DAY PLAY ARCLIGHT CINEMAS - PINOT’S PALETTE - FUNTOPIA - FLAVOR POT COLOR ME MINE - FREE CHILDREN’S & FAMILY EVENTS

RELAX AV NAIL SPA - GORDON SALON - TEN FRIENDS - PURE BARRE 2030 TOWER DRIVE www.TheGlenTownCenter.com

GLENVIEW, ILLINOIS facebook.com/GlenTownCenter

SPONSORED CONTENT

ASSISTED LIVING and LIVING WELL

BY PRE SBY TERIAN HOME S

“The most common misconception,” says Alex Doty, director of Assisted Living at The Highlands of Westminster Place, “is that ‘assisted living’ is just another word for nursing home, and nothing could be farther from the truth. This is a place of life and living where people can continue to enjoy their way of life.”

At The Highlands, residents receive various levels of personalized care based on their individual needs. But more importantly, it’s a community where relationships come first. Prior to moving in, each resident and their family meet with The Highlands’

staff to familiarize themselves with the resident’s needs and personal preferences.

“The Highlands is a place where people love to live,” says Doty.“ I can’t tell you the number of residents who have said, ‘If I knew how much I would be enjoying myself here, I would have made the decision sooner.’”

For older adults who cherish their independence, but need some assistance with daily living, life at The Highlands is everything they might need, and so much more than they could have imagined.

To learn more about Assisted Living at The Highlands at Westminster Place, visit presbyterianhomes.org or call (847) 866-1615.

Assisted Living For Today’s Independent-Minded Adult At Presbyterian Homes, we believe assisted living doesn’t mean giving up your independence. So, we offer you just the care you need, along with a few other things – like friendships, financial security and new interests. If you would like to see what our assisted living communities have to offer, please call us today.

THE HIGHLANDS AT WESTMINSTER PLACE 888-835-8992

THE HIGHLANDS AT LAKE FOREST PLACE 888-284-0133

THE HIGHLANDS AT KING HOME 888-462-0916

THE HIGHLANDS AT THE MOORINGS 888-708-2110

presbyterianhomes.org

PHOTO <CREDIT>

At The Highlands at Westminster Place, a member of Presbyterian Homes, Assisted Living isn’t about accepting limitations. It’s about discovering opportunities and living life on your own terms with as little or as much assistance as you might need.

# DAY T R I P P E R

Navy Pier

DAYTRIPPER:

STREETERVILLE

BY MEGHAN STREIT

Spend the day — or a weekend staycation — eating, drinking and playing in one of Chicago’s most action-packed and iconic neighborhoods. It will delight tourists, suburbanites and city dwellers alike!

With more than 25 hotels, dozens of upscale restaurants, streets teeming with boutiques and department stores, several famous skyscrapers and historic landmarks, as well as access to Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, there truly is never a dull moment in Streeterville. If you live in the city, this NearNorth Side neighborhood is well worth an afternoon spent exploring, and if you’re coming in from the ‘burbs, why not make a weekend staycation out of it? Here are some of our favorite places to dine, drink, play and relax in Streeterville.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAVY PIER

WHERE TO EAT Uno Pizzeria & Grill Chow down on an ooey-gooey deep-dish pizza. It’s the perfect classic Chicago meal to savor in this quintessential Chicago neighborhood. 29 E. Ohio St., 312-321-1000 Volare Enjoy traditional Italian cuisine (think: bruschetta with pesto and parmesan, gnocchi in vodka sauce, white fish with lemon and capers) in an upscale environment. Pair your meal with a robust bottle of red, and you’ve got the makings for a splendid evening in Streeterville. 201 E. Grand Ave., 312-410-9909

Ditka’s When it’s a big, juicy burger you’re craving, Ditka’s is the place to go. With several salads on the menu as well as lighter fare like chicken wraps and fish tacos, Ditka’s is a great lunch option.

Plus, it’s conveniently located off the Mag Mile, so you can duck in to refuel halfway through your shopping spree.

100 E. Chestnut St., 312-587-8989 Frankie’s Scaloppine Located on the fifth floor of the 900 N. Michigan building, Frankie’s Scaloppine lures shoppers with the aroma of hot pizza fresh from the brick oven. Choose from pies topped with delicacies like truffle oil and oyster mushrooms or classics like sausage and green pepper. The menu also includes pastas, meat and fish prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-266-2500 Yolk If you opt to spend the weekend in Streeterville, don’t miss out on brunch at Yolk. This family-friendly eatery serves up omelets and scrambles with all kinds of fillings as well as sweet treats like Nutella crepes. 355 E. Ohio St., 312-822-9655 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

57

# DAY T R I P P E R

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Enjoy award-winning Shakespeare-inspired productions while supporting this trailblazing company that partners with Chicago Public Schools to improve literacy and brings free entertainment to Chicago’s parks all summer long. 800 E. Grand Ave., 312-595-5600 Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place A true night on the town includes live entertainment. Take in a play at this unique and intimate venue located right on the Mag Mile. 175 E. Chestnut St., 312-977-1700 Lucky Strike Sip a craft beer or a specialty cocktail like the Pear Prosecco (St. Germain, Absolut Pears and bitters with a strawberry or lemon twist) while you bowl. After you’ve worked up an appetite, nosh on ahi tuna poke, pan-roasted Brussels sprouts and other thoughtful cuisine you wouldn’t typically expect to find at a bowling alley. 322 E. Illinois St., 312-245-8331 360 Chicago The gorgeous Chicago skyline just never gets old — especially when you’re viewing it from the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center. Grab a cocktail from Architect’s Corner, the new bar and café on the 94th floor, and watch the sun set behind the city. Thrill seekers will want to experience TILT, an all-glass observation deck that extends out over the Mag Mile.

875 N. Michigan Ave., 888-875-8439 Museum of Contemporary Art Take in envelope-pushing art in a variety of different media at this sleek urban museum. On tap this winter is an exhibit called “Riot Grrrls,” featuring eight female painters, and a thought-provoking photography exhibit called “Witness,” which explores the relationship between photographer and subject. 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 Navy Pier You could probably spend an entire day exploring the newand-improved Navy Pier, but this waterfront playground is certainly worth a stop on your Streeterville adventure. Take

Historic Water Tower One of Chicago’s most beautiful landmarks, the original water tower is a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of the Magnificent Mile. Marvel at the construction of the building (which was built between 1867 and 1869, and was one of the only structure to survive the Chicago Fire of 1871), and enjoy rotating art exhibits inside. 806 N. Michigan Ave. Pinstripes A stylish bowling alley and so much more, Pinstripes has bocce, a scenic outdoor patio and a full menu of inspired dishes like a filet mignon trio with Gorgonzola and Parmesan or maple-glazed salmon. Located in the historic River East Arts Center, the Streeterville location of this local bowling chain boasts spectacular views of Chicago. 435 E. Illinois St., 312-527-3010 Captain Streeter Statue Pay homage to the man who gave Streeterville its name with a quick stop at the statue depicting Captain Streeter. George Wellington “Cap” Streeter, as the story goes, claimed the land now known as Streeterville after his boat got stuck in a nearby Lake Michigan sandbar in 1886. We wish it were still that easy to score a piece of prime lakefront real estate! Corner of Grand Ave. and N. McClurg Ct.

HOW TO RELAX The Drake Immerse yourself in timeless Chicago elegance at this iconic hotel.

The central location makes The Drake an ideal home base for exploring Streeterville, and amenities like afternoon tea at Palm Court are sure to make your stay memorable. If you’ve got kiddos in tow, book one of the spacious two-bathroom family rooms.

140 E. Walton Place, 312-787-2200

Pinstripes

Massage Envy

58 NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

a ride on the 200-foot Centennial Wheel (excellent photo opps!) and then relax with a craft cocktail at Tiny Tavern, an outpost of popular Lincoln Square restaurant and watering hole Tiny Lounge. Families won’t want to miss Winter WonderFest, a 170,000-square-foot extravaganza of rides, activities, slides, indoor ice-skating and holiday décor at the Pier from Dec. 3 to Jan. 8. 600 E. Grand Ave., 800-595-7437

makeitbetter.net

Kiva Salon

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BUSINESS

WHAT TO DO

# DAY T R I P P E R

The Joynt This sultry new bar is a fun place to hear live music. The nightly entertainment lineup includes jazz trios, funk bands and more.

404 N. State St., 312-646-0660

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER

Kiva Salon “Everything beauty under one roof” is the motto here. Stop in for a blowout and a manicure before your night on the town.

35 N. Michigan Ave., 312-335-7622 Heavenly Massage Relax with a massage — and so much more — at this full-service day spa. Book a facial, mani/pedi, mud wrap and sugar scrub along with your massage for a full day of beauty that will leave you feeling completely rejuvenated. 1163 N. State St., 312-202-0213 Massage Envy There’s a full menu of massage services available at this chain, including reflexology, trigger point therapy and prenatal massage.

Add on aromatherapy or a sugar foot scrub to your treatment.

345 E. Ohio St., 312-222-0808 Neiman Marcus Whether you’re in the market for a new winter coat, luxe bedding or a bottle of your favorite perfume, Neiman Marcus is the perfect starting point for your Streeterville shopping spree. 737 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-5900

Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Macy’s A day of shopping on the Mag Mile wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Macy’s. Stock up on basics for the whole family, and then stop for lunch at the adjoining upscale food court at Water Tower Place. 835 N. Michigan Ave., 312-335-7700 To get more neighborhood-specific tips, head to MAKEITBETTER.NET/DAYTRIPPER

CELEBRATING

25 YEARS IN BUSINESS

DESIGNING KITCHENS FROM A COOK’S PERSPECTIVE!

Whether traditional or contemporary in style, our skilled designers will bring your kitchen to life Our showroom offers a wide selection of Indoor and Outdoor Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Tile, and Decorative Hardware Winner of the Better Business Bureau 2016 Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics

CALL US FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION!

806 Central Ave., Suite 101 | Highland Park, IL 60035 847-433-2400 | www.DreamKitchens.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

LOUISIANA FLOODING THE LARGEST DISASTER SINCE SUPERSTORM SANDY

BY A MER IC AN R ED CROSS O F CHIC AGO & NORTHERN ILLINOIS

Devastating images from Louisiana pervaded the internet in August 2016 when the flooding caused by rain-soaked rivers created the largest natural disaster since Superstorm Sandy in 2012, displacing thousands of people. The American Red Cross rushed to help, sending disaster workers from across the entire country, including Celena Roldán, the CEO of the American Red Cross of Chicago & Northern Illinois, and more than 50 other volunteers from this region.

“I was honored to go to Louisiana to administer our mission,” Roldán says. “I worked daily with volunteers in the recovery of the operation, as part of the on-the-ground team administering relief dollars to those whose homes have had ‘major’ disaster damage but cannot access federal disaster aid funding. I had the great opportunity to assist local leaders working in diverse communities to support individuals in accessing resources and relief.”

Roldán was moved by the power, commitment and dedication of the Red Cross volunteers she worked alongside.

Celena Roldan, CEO of the American Red Cross of Chicago & Northern Illinois, and Jamie, her 8-month-old buddy, whom she entertained while his mom used the Mobile Library at the River Center shelter in Baton Rouge

“I joined the Red Cross because we are an organization comprised of 90 percent volunteers. Over 4,500 volunteers from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Mexico willingly traveled, stayed in shelters and sacrificed because they knew people needed them,” she says. “There is no other organization with the volunteer power of the Red Cross.”

To learn more about the American Red Cross and to volunteer, visit redcross.org/local/il/Chicago.

The Red Cross depends on the generosity of the American public to help cover the costs of disaster responses like those in Louisiana. Consider donating to the Red Cross at redcross.org/donate.

Care. For where you live and work.

Remodeling, Painting and Handyman Services Wags on Willow is moving to 300 HAPP Road in Northfield.

Opening in November!

Visit wagsonwillow.com for Full- Service Grooming Salon Open 7 days a week - Call for appointment 847-272-2918 Retail Store Hours Mon - Sat 8AM - 4PM | Sun 11AM - 3PM

Call: 847. 922. 3418

getdwell.com

“Plain and simple...these guys are the Best!”

– Make it Better Magazine, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015.

O U R PAT I E N C E and PA S S I O N

GIVE

O U R P L A N T S the P R O M I S E o f a B E AU T I F U L F U T U R E

& W H AT T H EY B E C O M E MIGHT JUST

TA K E YO U R B R E AT H AWAY

We are Chalet. The North Shoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one landscaping destination.

Discover how our 100-year-old legacy continues to inspire our innovations at chaletnursery.com

#LANDSCAPING

A small evergreen bough hung above the door and decorated with a few sparkly stars adds a perfect welcoming touch to the entryway.

SEASON’S GREENS B Y H E AT H E R B L A C K M O R E

When it comes to exterior holiday décor, less is definitely more. The Griswold-esque house-lighting ceremony is long gone and homeowners are opting for a minimalist approach that embraces sustainability without sacrificing taste. Monochromatic color schemes and geometric shapes are all the rage and harken back to an eye-catching, simpler aesthetic.

According to Ed Furner, director of customer care at Mariani Landscape, there’s been a push among clients in recent years to extend the life of their gardens. Incorporating natural elements like the dried seed heads of coneflower and black-eyed Susans into container designs has become popular.

Botanicals are in and if homeowners can harvest interesting pieces from their landscapes and find new ways to repurpose them into holiday designs, the ability to create something truly unique to them is at their fingertips. A spritz of gold spray paint on dried pomegranate and a dollop of hot glue to affix a stick to nestle it into a container arrangement ups the ante, adding spherical sparkle without having to resort to plastic baubles and trinkets.

Whether it’s dried hydrangea flowers spritzed with glitter paint or plumes of fountain grass placed 62

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

strategically in a container design, the garden offers a wealth of possibilities with minimal cost.

“I think the client feels like they’re getting more out of their landscape and it’s aesthetically pleasing,” says Furner.

John Hoerst, merchandising manager and buyer at Chalet Landscape, says the botanical trend is becoming more popular at the front door too.

“Branches like red twig dogwood will hold their holiday color all winter,” says Hoerst. “Sometimes they’ll even root into a container and sprout leaves in the spring if left in place.”

A bundle of birch branches arranged in a galvanized container suits the minimalist palate. Traditional evergreen wreaths are commonplace and homeowners are opting for the less expected. Simplicity is key with single-element designs such as wreaths fashioned from twigs and adorned with sprigs of winterberry. Large glossy magnolia leaves, common in the south, are finding their way to Midwestern entries in the form of billowing wreaths and as design elements in container gardens.

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY LINDA OYAMA BRYAN FOR MARIANI LANDSCAPE; TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF CHALET LANDSCAPING; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF TERRAIN

This holiday season, exterior décor goes minimal and sustainable.

#LANDSCAPING Red twig dogwood branches top off container arrangements on the walkway and at the front door while an evergreen swag is draped festively overhead.

A simple bundle of river birch logs hints at winter and the holidays.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

63

#LANDSCAPING

LIGHT IT UP! Nothing says holiday more than string lights. According to Inside Energy, a group that studies energy usage, a home decked out in incandescent lights will add an additional $58.34 to the monthly electric bill. LED lighting has made high bills a thing of the past.

When first introduced, the light was harsh but designers have made great strides in warming up the colors. According to Hoerst, the new lights are tough and able to withstand foot traffic. Set on a timer, waterproof cordless lights like those from Terrain, requiring just a few batteries, will give up to 45 days of glow. Hoerst suggests wrapping lights around logs or branches for a simple, yet sophisticated look.

Glass lanterns filled with cordless fairy lights offer another low-cost option.

In the past, incandescent string lighting used outdoors had a brief lifespan, usually one season and then it was cut from trees and bushes and discarded. According to Furner, LED lights may cost more up front but clients are able to get many seasons out of them.

“For very little electrical usage, you can achieve an enchanted look with the twinkle or steady burn options on the LED lights,” says Hoerst.

“Even without ornaments, a Christmas tree decorated with just these lights is outstanding.”

64

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

PHOTO BY LINDA OYAMA BRYAN FOR MARIANI LANDSCAPE

Additionally, small evergreens like arborvitae and boxwood are bold and versatile centerpieces in the container garden. As a containerized design anchor, an evergreen is able to withstand harsh winter temperatures and can carry a variety of adornments as the seasons change. A simple underplanting of fall mums can be switched out for a holiday arrangement of dried flowers and twinkle lights.

A trio of trees decked out in the warm glow of LED lights is both festive and energy conscious.

LD

LD

LD

SO

SO

SO

t

1090 HIGHLAND AVE, LAKE FOREST 412 10TH STREET, WILMETTE

1228 WESTMORE RD, WINNETKA LD

SO

1218 GLENDENNING RD., WILMETTE

E

TIV

IVE

T AC

AC

435 SUNSET ROAD, WINNETKA $1,135,000

406 WOODLEY WOODS, WINNETKA $1,599,000

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL FIND YOUR HOUSE, YOU MAKE IT HOME. Contact Kathy Hartsig 479-685-8513 Kathy.hartsig@cbexchange.com | kathyhartsig.cbintouch.com

The art of skincare with medical expertise.

Carpet ･ Area Rugs ･ Wood Floors ･ Vinyl ･ Tile Browse our extensive selection of new flooring at our Wilmette showroom.

Installation services trusted since 1910.

The North Shore’s experts in cleaning, refinishing & restoration.

1107 GREENLEAF AVE. WILMETTE, IL 847-282-4081 ･ KASHIANBROS.COM

WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR SKIN

Facials • Microdermabrasion SkinPen collagen induction therapy Chemical peels • BOTOX® Cosmetic Facial fillers • Face and body waxing Medical-grade weight management Medical skincare

OUR NEW LOCATION magdalenamedspa.com 847.432.4111 272 East Deerpath Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

414 Green Bay Road • Kenilworth www.dgchicago.com 847.707.7867 Custom Cabinetry and Design

Trunk Show December 3, 2016 10AM-2PM

HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9AM-5PM 561 Lincoln Avenue Winnetka, IL | 847.446.3917 | Optiquenorthshore.com

#INTERVIEW

68

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

#INTERVIEW

ANCHORED WOMAN

BY SUSAN B . NOYE S

PHOTO BY TODD ROSENBERG

CBS 2 Chicago’s Irika Sargent brings passionate reporting and a problem-solving mentality to one of the city's top newsrooms.

Broadcast journalism was always Irika Sargent’s dream­­­ — helping people a high priority — and Chicago the location she coveted.

So, imagine Sargent’s joy at landing here last year as news anchor of CBS 2 Chicago — a station with a deep commitment to making a difference, helping lift up its audience and our city.

It was an ideal match. Since Sargent’s arrival, CBS's ratings growth has substantially outstripped its four competitors. During our interview, Sargent demurs when asked about this success.

“It’s a team effort,” she says. “The station’s make-a-difference philosophy was in place before I arrived.” She pauses, then adds, “But we are adding new elements every month, including more investigations and original reporting. I’m happy to see the growth and contribute to it. If a viewer watches and feels a connection to me … I am grateful for that.”

Gratitude and her love of work, humanity and giving back pervade our conversation, as does always striving towards excellence. Sargent is authentic, endearing and smart. She’s paying forward her success as fast as she can; within the first few minutes she references multiple events she participated in during the past week.

“Chicago hosted the National Association of Black Journalists Conference this weekend. I volunteered as a mentor,” she explains.

“This business is such a small world, I like to help others trying to do TV, too.”

She recently emceed the International Women’s Forum 2016 Gala honoring women from around the world who have made a difference. “It’s not as easy for a woman to pursue her dreams internationally as it is here,” she says. “Emceeing that event made me think about how far women have come in this country and how fortunate I am.”

Sargent relishes her community interaction outside the studio.

“A big part of my job is to be out in the community volunteering, not just behind a desk,” she says. “And I love it.”

She’s already enjoyed some extraordinary opportunities away from the city with this job. The station sent her to cover the Grammys, as well as the Democratic National Convention, where the work was intense and the days full of surprises — like the sudden resignation of Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Sargent slept only two hours a night. “I was listening to speakers, conducting interviews, talking on the phone with producers, writing scripts for the newscasts — all at the same time, constantly on, day after day.” No complaints though, just gratitude for the opportunity.

She enjoyed her ringside seat at the historic nomination of a woman for president.

Sargent was a guest host on CBS’ “The Talk” twice, but, she explains, that is not a signal that she is network bound. “I had so much fun temporarily jumping into a different broadcast experience as a guest host,” she grins. “But news is my number-one passion and doing it in Chicago is amazing.

I love this place.”

Sargent is well prepared for this job. After graduating with a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Missouri, she attended law school at Cornell University. She believed that legal training would sharpen her reporting skills and add a valuable extra dimension to her resume.

Upon graduation, Sargent detoured from her intended broadcast career path for a few years. A prestigious NYC firm lured her into a high-paying labor law job instead. Nonetheless, Sargent believes this experience also helped train her for TV. “My appearances before the judges of the Human Rights Commission prepared me well to be in front of a camera,” she says.

Despite the time demands of big firm practice, Sargent always found time to volunteer free legal services to nonprofits and underserved communities. It wasn’t long before she felt the tug towards TV reporting again. She believed she could make a greater impact — and do more to help others — there.

Sargent landed at a small station in Alabama, but was soon hired away to Houston, then Miami for a short stint before she got the Chicago call.

There are plenty of problems in Chicago for Sargent to tackle.

She quickly lists several — violence, the restructuring of the police department, the schools. She shares CBS’s goals of “reporting objectively, putting faces on the issues.”

Sargent particularly enjoys in-depth opportunities to address problems and offer solutions. She emceed the Chicago premier of “The Hunting Ground,” a documentary about sexual assault on college campuses and the difficulties victims face as they try to pursue justice while remaining students. Sargent followed this up with interviews of two survivors from Northwestern University and Anne Bent, the founder of Porchlight, a nonprofit providing comprehensive services for such survivors. Chicago is clearly her element and we're thrilled to have her as part of the Windy City.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

69

V ote d B e s t B outique Shop our collections in-store or online.

Monday-Friday 10 AM–6 PM Saturday 10 AM–5 PM Sunday 12 PM–4 PM

1346 Shermer Rd. | Northbrook 224.326.2412 | juniperboutique.com

francesheffernan.com 810 Elm Street, Winnetka | 847.446.2112 Monday-Saturday 10am to 5pm

Facial Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion New Laser for Stretch Marks Miradry® Eliminate underarm sweating without downtime PicosureTM tattoo removal Leg Spider Vein Treatment Sun & Age Spots Skin Surgery Moles & Skin Cancer Acne Scar Treatment with Laser and Bellafill® HydraFacial MD General Dermatology for All Ages

KybellaTM FDA approved injectable to dissolve fat under the chin Ultherapy® Lunchtime Face Lift Dualsculpting/Coolsculpting Cool Mini Treatment Neograft Hair Restoration: no scars, no plugs Cutera® Pearl Laser Resurfacing and Rejuvenation Laser Hair Removal Botox®, DysportTM & Xeomin® Fillers (Bellafill®, Belotero®, Juvéderm®, ® Perlane , Radiesse®, Restylane®, Sculptra®, Voluma®)

What’s on your

Holiday Lift List ?

3 Ways to improve your Neck for the Holidays

with no downtime and natural looking results. kybella

Brow your 3 Waysü to improve ü Neck ü Chin ü Chest ü Thighs Neck for the Holidays FDA approved injectable to disolve fat under the chin Non surgical - non invasive 2-4 treatments for best results Results after 1 month

Ultherapy

FDA approved neck lift using ultrasound Non surgical - non invasive Single treatment Skin tightening Results in 3 months

Coolsculpting / Cool mini with no downtime and natural looking results.

This non-invasive procedure is the only one FDA-cleared to treatment kybella Ultherapy actually lift skin and has quickly become one of our patients’ favorites!

See the results of better-fitting skin after just one collagen-building Unwrap the look you’ll love for the holiday....

Ultherapy treatment. call today for your free consultation!

FDA approved injectable to disolve fat under the chin Non surgical - non invasive 2-4 treatments for best results Results after 1 month

FDA approved to freeze and eliminate fat under the chin 1-2 treatments for best results Results in 12 weeks

FDA approved neck lift using ultrasound Non surgical - non invasive Single treatment Skin tightening Results in 3 months

Coolsculpting / Cool mini treatment

SerViCeS

FDA approved to freeze and eliminate fat under the chin 1-2 treatments for best results Results in 12 weeks

PRE-TREATMENT

Ultherapy

Lunchtime Face Lift

Eliminate underarm sweating without downtime

scars, no plugs TM Picosure Cutera Pearl Laser Resurfacing tattoo removal and Rejuvenation Leg Spider Vein Treatment Laser Hair Removal Sun & Age Spots TM ®, Botox Dysport & Xeomin POST-TREATMENT: BEFORE AFTER 180 DAYS Skin Surgery Microdermabrasion POST-TREATMENT: Moles &PRE-TREATMENT Skin Cancer 120 DAYS Fillers (Belotero, Marks Bellafill, Radiesse, RestylaneTM, Perlane, 90 DAYS New Laser for Stretch General Dermatology Juvederm, Sculptra, Voluma) Miradry for All Ages Facial Chemical Peels Eliminate underarm sweating without downtime

Dualsculpting/Coolsculpting Neograft Hair Restoration: no scars, no plugs TM Picosure Cutera Pearl Laser Resurfacing tattoo removal Reveal the real you with CoolSculpting and Rejuvenation Leg Spider Vein Treatment CoolSculpting is the non-surgical body contouring treatment CoolSculpting is the non-surgical body contouring treatment that Laser Hair Removal Sun & Age Spots Get lean & stop that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body.

TM TRANSFORM YOURfreezes BODY Botox ® , Dysport & Xeomin and naturally fat from your body.

Skin Surgery Noeliminates needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime.

WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWNTIME. underarm sweat forever.

Moles & Skin Cancer Developed

by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting is FDaFillers No needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime.

(Belotero, Bellafill, Radiesse, RestylaneTM, Perlane, cleared, safe and clinically proven. We will develop your General Dermatology ® Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting is FDAcleared, to safe CoolSculpting is the nonJuvederm, Sculptra, Voluma) customized plan so you can say goodbye stubborn fat! for All Ages Facial Chemical and clinically proven. WeCall will develop your plan so you surgicalPeels body contouring treatus today tocustomized schedule your consultation!

No Fat, No Sweat!

Reveal the real you with CoolSculpting

can say goodbye to stubborn fat! ment that freezes and naturally Call us today to schedule your consultation! eliminates fat from your body.Reveal No the real you with CoolSculpting needles, no surgery and best of CoolSculpting is the non-surgical body contouring treatment all, no downtime. that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body.

TRANSFORM YOUR BODY

No needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime.

Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting is FDa-

WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWNTIME.

miraDry® is your solution for cleared, safe and clinically proven. We will develop your BeFOre PERMANENTLY customized plan so you can say goodbye to stubborn fat! sweat free underarms in as little Permanently stop underarm sweat now. as one easy treatment.

STOP Call us today to schedule your consultation!

Clean, confident, carefree forever.

Call us today to schedule your consultation!

UNDERARM

Stay clean, confident and carefree forever with miraDry.

BeFOre

Clean confident, carefree tiNa C.forever.

VeNetOS, m.D.

miraDry® is a registered trademark of Miramar Labs, Inc. MK0374-B 07/15

WiLmette 3612 W. Lake Ave., 2nd Floor 8 WEEKS AFTER 847.853.7900 COOLSCULPTING TREATMENT

8 WeekS aFter (-6 pounds)

www.northshorederm.biz COOLSCULPtiNg treatmeNt (-6 pounds)

amy C. BrOWNLee, mS, Pa-C

Dr. Venetos is a Board Certified Dermatologist On Staff at Evanston,Glenbrook, & Lake Forest Hospitals

Northshore Dermatology Center

Northshore Dermatology Center

Lake BLUFF 925 Sherwood Drive 847.234.1177

WiLmette 3612 W. Lake Ave., 2nd Floor 847.853.7900

www.northshorederm.biz

Find out more:

SWEAT NOW. Northshore Dermatology Center

Lake BLUFF 925 Sherwood Drive BEFORE 847.234.1177

New Saturday Hours!

8 WeekS aFter COOLSCULPtiNg treatmeNt (-6 pounds)

Embrace every moment of life to the fullest – without fear or embarrassment of underarm issues getting in the way. Whether you’re out with friends or going on a special date – miraDry ® is your solution for sweat-free underarms in as little as one easy treatment.

New Saturday Hours!

tiNa C. VeNetOS, m.D. amy C. BrOWNLee, mS, Pa-C

Dr. Venetos is a Board Certified Dermatologist On Staff at Evanston,Glenbrook, & Lake Forest Hospitals

BY TR ACY CLIFFORD

‘Tis the season for gift giving, decadent food and parties! Stylist Tracy Clifford gives her top tips on how to celebrate in style:

1 Shop In Your Own Closet First Take advantage of what you already own! An amazing new shoe, bag or choker (‘90s is back!) can make an old look new.

2 Trends Are Your Friends

Unwrap the look you’ll love for the holiday....Microdermabrasion Ultherapy Face free Lift consultation! call todayLunchtime for your New Laser for Stretch Marks Dualsculpting/Coolsculpting Miradry Neograft Hair Restoration: no

SerViCeS

SPONSORED CONTENT

The trends this season are perfect for holiday dressing. Brocade, velvet, feathers and sequins are all on trend and ideal party attire. Plus, you can wear these pieces into the new year!

3 Don’t Be “That” Girl Watch your hemlines and necklines at corporate events; don’t take a large handheld clutch when the night requires balancing a cocktail; pick party shoes that will work for long nights of standing; and please, be thoughtful about outerwear!

4 Don’t Show Up Empty-Handed

Thoughtful and creative gifts will leave your style behind well after the party is over. Limited edition candles, coffee table books, stationery, olive oil or toffee. Great gift wrap is a must!

Tracy Clifford Style offers event styling, personal shopping, wardrobe styling and holiday gift shopping services. To set up a consultation, visit tracycliffordstyle.com or call (312) 977-4525.

Ring in the N

PHOTO <CREDIT>

#FA SHION

7 27 2 N O NV O EVM EM B EBRE /RD/ EDCE ECM EM B EBRE R2 02 1061 6

makeitbetter.net makeitbetter.net

New

#FA SHION

BY B RO O K E MCD O NALD PH OTO GR APHY BY NATALIE HART U N G ST YLIN G BY TR ACY CLIFFO R D AND B RIAN STANZIALE

‘Tis the season to go glam in holiday partywear in timeless black and sparkling metallics. Keep it merry and bright with playful details like fur pom-poms and a burgundy velvet bowtie. Toast 2017’s possibilities with cocktails served in fabulous barware — the perfect accessories for kissing 2016 goodbye in style! Details on page 76.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

73

y b Ba it's Cold

#FA SHION

74

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

#FA SHION

O utside

When the weather outside is frightful, make the most of it in the season’s coolest and coziest outerwear. Wrap up in ultra-warm down and shearling, the softest cashmere scarves and sweaters, and the chicest winter boots, and you’ll be the one saying, “Let it snow!”

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

75

Fashion Credits Additional styling by Erica Barraca and January Thomas Winter Branches provided courtesy of FlowersFlowers, 1110 Davis St., Evanston, 847-328-7110 p. 72 Alberto Makali Dress, $385, and Black and Gold Clutch Purse, $165, Avenue Fashions, 720 Waukegan Rd #K, Deerfield, clothingstoredeerfieldil.com | Pour La Victoire Camilla Fur Pom-Pom Pump, $325, and Goldfine "Patina Spike" Earrings, $80, Juniper Boutique, 1346 Shermer Road, Northbrook, juniperboutique.com | Krug Grande Cuvée Champagne, $180, Schaefer's Wines, Foods & Spirits, 9965 Gross Point Road, Skokie, schaefers.com p. 73 Burberry Milbury Tuxedo Suit, $2,295, Eton Tuxedo Shirt $275, Yves Saint Laurent Burgundy Velvet Bow Tie, $135, Hugo Boss Patent Leather Loafers, $245, David Donahue Cufflinks, $185, Bloomingdale's, 900 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, bloomingdales.com | Gold Crown Ring Holder, $10, Jonathan Adler Newport Decanter, $198, and Glassware, $25, Maze Home, 735 Elm St., Winnetka, mazehome.com p. 74 Canada Goose Men's Banff Parka, $950, Burberry Giant Icon Check Cashmere Scarf, $435, The Men's Store at Bloomingdale's Button Down Shirt in Eggplant, $198, The Men's Store at Bloomingdale's Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, $198, Joe's Jeans Brixton Slim Straight Fit in King Wash, $158, and Sorel Cheyenne Lace Full Grain Leather Waterproof Boots, $125, bloomingdales.com | Canvas Home Tinware Mug, $11, Black Sheep General Store Store, 346 Park Ave., Glencoe, blacksheepgeneralstore.com | Few Bourbon Whiskey, $48, Schaefer's Wines, Foods & Spirits, | Gold Antlers, $205, Maze Home p. 75 Artico Shearling Hooded Vest, $1625, Lafayette 148 Cashmere Ombre Ribbed Turtleneck, $548, LD Tuttle "The Black" Bootie, $605, Frances Heffernan, 810 Elm St, Winnetka, francesheffernan.com | Frost Cashmere Hat with Fur Pom, $66, James Jeans Hunter Bombshell Denim, $176, and Brown Leather Cuff, $160, Juniper Boutique | Glen Plaid Walnut Throw, $128, Maze Home Paddywax Balsam & Fir Glass Soy Candle, $26, Large PaddywaxTartan Candle, $21, and Small Paddywax Tartan Candles, $10, Black Sheep General Store

76 N OV E M B E R / D ECE M B E R 20 16

HOLIDAY / RESORT ARRIVALS DAILY THROUGH DECEMBER VISIT MATTIEM.COM AND CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK BRING IN THIS AD FOR

20% OFF ANY REG PRICED ITEM

*Not applicable to special orders.

MON-FRI, 10-5:30 & SAT 10-5

*Good through 12/31/16

| 990 GREEN BAY RD., WINNETKA | 847-784 - 8701

SHE HAS THE LOOK. WHAT ABOUT

YOU?

GET THE LOOK AT

720 WAUKEGAN ROAD, DEERFIELD 847.940.1818 | AVENUEFASHIONS.COM

D E A R F R I E N DS :

As the Holidays are approaching, I have been reflecting on this past year when we have witnessed some of the greatest humanitarian crises of our time. We have seen an unprecedented refugee crisis, unending wars around the globe, and a hurricane that devastated our southeast states and neighboring countries. Some of our fellow human beings have lost everything – yet need to find the strength to carry on.

I have been blessed with a wonderful family and a safe community. I am also fortunate to own a business that allows me to give back – and I’m honored to do so.

I would like to invite you to participate with us in donating to the charity of your choice to help those around the world. We at Pascal pour Elle are giving a percentage of our proceeds to help those in desperate need. Please visit our website to help choose the cause you wish to support.

From our Pascal pour Elle family to yours, have a wonderful, and happy Holiday season, and a new year in which we all do our part to make the world a better place.

368 Park Avenue Glencoe, Illinois 60035 847.501.3100

pascalpourelle.com NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

77

#BEAUTY

TAKE YOUR HOLIDAY HAIR UP A NOTCH

BY JENNY MUSLIN

The holidays are here! You’ve received the party invite.

You’ve bought the dress... and now for the hair. We asked five beauty pros to tell you how to create their favorite holiday hairstyles at home.

The Twist

The High Ponytail

Relaxed Waves and Center Part

THE HIGH PONYTAIL

ponytail is going to be positioned. He periodically takes the heat off, holding the brush with the hair and allowing the style to set. To finish the ponytail, he sprays on Phyto Plage, a protectant that also creates amazing shine while still giving texture to hair. Finally, he sprays a large makeup brush with aerosol hairspray and uses the makeup brush to tame flyways without disturbing the style.

If you have longer hair, a high ponytail is classic, chic and always in fashion.

Anthony Cristiano, celebrity stylist and owner of Anthony Cristiano Salon in Chicago, styled the look on supermodel Adriana Lima at the Cannes Film Festival. Why is this look a winner for everything from holiday parties to the red carpet? “When the hair is high and bound away from the neck, you expose the head shape, and by slicking it back it gives everyone an instant facelift,” says Cristiano. To make the look even more elegant, wrap a grosgrain ribbon around the elastic.

Cristiano uses Phyto Volume Actif to amplify the roots, then directionally dries hair in sections back towards where the 78

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

Vivian Arpino, owner of BloOuts in Winnetka and Highland Park, also favors the high ponytail, which she believes complements anyone. “In this day and age, women want to look youthful and, more importantly, sexy,” Arpino explains. “The high ponytail provides a little bit of an edge for those who don’t want an up-do, but who are looking for

makeitbetter.net

something different for holiday parties.

I’ve had clients sleep on it and just touch it up the next day for another event!”

LOOSE, SOFT AND TOUCHABLE

Pascal Pour Elle stylist and educator Brenda Bonomo favors a hairstyle that’s loose, feminine and easy, particularly for a daytime holiday event. “It’s the perfect style for busy women,” she says.

Bonomo uses Label.m Volume Medium Hold Mousse followed by over-directed round brushing and a large roller set. She finishes the style with Label.m Hairspray.

THE TWIST

Bonomo’s other favorite look for the holiday season is a sophisticated and modern “twist,” beautiful for an evening affair. Prep hair in the same way you

LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF BLO OUTS; CENTER AND TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF PASCAL POUR ELLE; RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF TEDDIE KOSSOF SALON

Loose, Soft and Touchable

would for the above “loose, soft and touchable” look, then, back-brush at the crown. Pull all the hair back and down at the base of the neck into a low twist. To appear soft yet modern, let the hair be slightly looser even though it’s being pulled back from the scalp.

For some festive sparkle, add a hair accessory to the twist.

RELAXED WAVES AND A CENTER PART

“It’s all about the part down the middle and loose waves at the ends to create a soft, sassy look for any holiday party,” says Angie Giannikopoulos, Teddie Kossof Salon manager and events coordinator. This style was a hit on the Emmy Awards red carpet on starlets from Mandy Moore to Kerry Washington.

To achieve this style, you’ll need a 1-inch curling iron and a hairspray like Kenra #25 Volume Hairspray. Spray every section of hair before you curl. Starting from the bottom of your hair, take big sections and wrap the hair away from your face around the curling iron, leaving the ends out of the curling iron. When you’re finished curling all of your hair, run hands through and shake out hair with your hands. Finish with another few spritzes of Kenra #25 to hold the style.

THE POLISHED BLOWOUT

Don’t overlook the always-stylish blowout.

Wendy Lewis, founder and editor in chief of national beauty blog beautyinthebag.com, chooses a blowout as her go-to party look.

“My simple party style is Oribe shampoo and conditioner for beautiful color and a great blowout,” Lewis says. If you can’t make it to the salon for a blowout, Lewis recommends prepping hair with a treatment Lasio Keratin Treatment One Day Formula. “You can wash your hair in 24 hours and it stays silky and straight with zero frizz for about three months. It’s a total lifesaver!”

For more great hair and beauty tips, visit MAKEITBETTER.NET/BEAUTY

Offering Menus of Fresh Organic Seasonal Ingredients for any Occasion Engagement Parties | Weddings | Holidays | Birthdays Special Events | Dinner parties | and more!

hellercatering.com 29870 Skokie Highway | Lake Bluff, IL 60044 | 847.295.1310

in your

Include these Wonderful

Events

Holiday Planning this Season!

Friday Funnies - Stand Up Comedy @ the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mette Asian Pop-Up Cinema Season III Closing Night Reception and Chicago Film Premiere Manhattan Medium Thomas John Returns Writers Theatre Film Series Season of Light (Celebrating the Season in Song) with Singer Megon McDonough

Tickets: www.wilmettetheatre.com

Registration underway for winter acting classes! www.actorstrainingcenter.org

New Vernon Hills Location is Open!

Mention code: VHMIB to get a discount when you check in! www.foreveromyoga.com

HOT POWER VINYASA Discover your strength.

Inspire your life.

LAKE FOREST

828 N. Western Avenue 847-482-YOGA (9643)

VERNON HILLS

281 W. Townline Road 847-984-2637

arta n deco redux ew collection

Come In & Shop Our Winter Arrivals For Kids 0-12.

1901 Central St, Evanston (corner of Central St. & Green Bay Rd) 847 866 6292 | www.maya-tony.com

Made with soft, natural fibers for comfort and dual temperature control

Before

After Actual patient results of FreskSkin Med Spa

JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC AVAILABLE AT FRESHSKIN

The newest dermal filler on the market for lip augmentation and reducing the appearance of smoker’s lines (the vertical lines above the upper lip.)

Enhance your lips to create a natural, youthful pout.

Longer lasting results with minimal downtime.

RECEIVE $50 OFF* YOUR FIRST VOLBELLA TREATMENT Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation, and find out why Dr. Josie Tenore was among the first physicians to receive Volbella. *Offer expires February 28, 2017. Cannot be combined with any other promotions.

MYFRESHSKIN.COM

595 ELM PLACE, SUITE 208 HIGHLAND PARK, IL 847.681.8821

#NUTCRACKER

Joffrey Ballet dancers Yumi Kanazawa (left) and Lola Prisco (right) mouse around in costumes from Christopher Wheeldonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visionary new production of the holiday classic.

82

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

#NUTCRACKER

A SPARKLING NEW

‘NUTCRACKER’

BY DOROTHY ANDRIES P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y T O D D R O S E N B E R G | C O S T U M E S A N D M A S K C R E AT E D B Y J U L I A N C R O U C H

The Joffrey Ballet takes “The Nutcracker” to a dynamically different time and place in its groundbreaking new production of the holiday favorite.

Yes, mice will take the stage in The Joffrey Ballet’s new production of “The Nutcracker” at the Auditorium Theatre this December.

But Ashley Wheater, the company’s artistic director, declined to reveal the size or shape of Mother Ginger, the giant figure that appears with her children, the eight acrobatic polichinelles who emerge from her voluminous skirt.

That will be just one of the many surprises when a completely new and reimagined treatment of the ballet by Tony Awardwinning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon replaces Robert Joffrey’s popular 1987 production of the holiday classic. This world premiere is being called a “Nutcracker” for the 21st century, and the action will take place at the World’s Columbian Exposition, which ran in Chicago from May to October of 1893.

According to Wheater, the catalyst for a new production was twofold. He and Wheeldon were having lunch in 2007 and the choreographer remarked, “You know, I’ve never done a ‘Nutcracker.’

I’d love to do one for you.” To which Wheater quickly replied, “I’m going to hold you to that!

“At the same time, our ‘Nutcracker’ was falling apart,” he explains.

“The sets, the costumes, everything. It was not going to last unless we invested a huge amount of money rebuilding the entire production.” He explained the situation to the company’s board of directors. “They understood,” he says, “ and they supported a new ballet. We have a terrific board!”

Wheeldon’s work has been an integral part of the Joffrey’s repertoire since 2009, when the company presented his “Carousel,” danced to the music of Broadway composer Richard Rodgers. Since then, the company has performed his “After the Rain” in 2010, “Continuum” and “Swan Lake” in 2014, plus “Liturgy” and “Fool’s Paradise,” both in 2015. Lead Joffrey ballerina April Daly, who joined the company in 2003, has danced in every Wheeldon ballet presented by the Joffrey, including the roles of Odette/Odile in “Swan Lake” and Julie in “Carousel.”

“Chris knows us. He’s worked with us so much that he knows what our bodies can do,” says Daly, who is now preparing for a number of key “Nutcracker” roles, including the Mother, the Snow soloist, both the Spanish and Arabian ethnic dancers, and the Grand Pas de Deux.

She has been dancing in various “Nutcracker’ productions since she was 11 years old, an experience she shares with many dancers past and present.

“This new Pas de Deux is impressive and definitely athletic,” she explains, when asked to compare it with other well-known renderings of the famous score. But Wheeldon does not intend to create a classical showpiece. “The adagio music was inspired by the death of Tchaikovsky’s sister,” he wrote in response to email questions. “Some hear it as melancholic, I hear it as full of love and passion. In my Nutcracker, [the Pas de Deux] is a softer, more romantic interpretation of this glorious music.”

Despite the many Wheeldon pieces company dancers have performed, these roles are the first that are being set on them, Daly explains. “All the others were made on other dancers,” she says, “so we’re all especially excited because these roles are being made on us.” “Our dancers are ‘all in’ for this premiere,” Wheater confirms. “Everyone is giving 100 percent.”

He knows what it takes, since he was a dancer himself, beginning as a lad in the British Isles; he has appeared in 11 productions of “The Nutcracker.” His roles included a mouse, a party child, a soldier and hot chocolate, the little one who appears in the Spanish dance. “I loved playing Fritz, the naughty brother at the Christmas Eve party, ” he told the crowd assembled for the announcement of the world premiere last spring.

Wheater danced professionally with the London Festival Ballet and the Australian Ballet. At the invitation of Gerald Arpino, co-founder of the company with Robert Joffrey, he danced with the Joffrey for four years and then joined the San Francisco Ballet.

“The setting of the World’s Columbian Exposition will provide the background for a truly magical production,” Wheater declares.

The national pavilions at the fair justify the ballet’s sparkling ethnic dances, and the fair was one of the first places where street lights were used extensively, illuminating the boulevards and buildings so they could be used at night.

“When I first came to Chicago, I started reading about the Columbian Exposition,” he continues. “I hadn’t realized what the fair meant to America, to the beautification of other American cities.” In fact, the Chicago event is credited with inspiring Washington, D.C.’s development of the National Mall in 1902.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

83

#NUTCRACKER

The Joffrey Ballet rehearses for the world premiere of "The Nutcracker."

The artistic director also credits Wheeldon for creating deep and welldrawn characters in the ballet. “This is very layered production,” he says. “We really get to know who these people are. They have a back story and it comes out in their dancing.” In this production, for example, the little girl is not Clara, the daughter of an aristocratic family, but Marie, the daughter of an immigrant worker living in Chicago and working on the construction of the fair. “The audience will see the wonder of the exposition through the eyes of a child,” he says.

The artistic director adds something surprising. “I’ve danced to this music since I was six, but Chris’s choreography makes me hear this music in a new way,” he admits. “I hear things I never noticed before. I don’t know why, but that is what is happening to me as I see this production being created.”

A team of laurel-laden professionals, some direct from Wheeldon’s triumphant “An American in Paris,” has been assembled for this world premiere production, including six-time Tony Award-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz, who also worked on “Frozen,” and Tony Award-winning projection designer Ben Pearcy, who also worked on “Big Fish.” Other members of Wheeldon's team here are Tony Award-nominated set and costume designer Julian Crouch, and

author and illustrator Brian Selznick, Caldecott Medal-winning author of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” adapted into the Academy Award-winning film “Hugo,” directed by Martin Scorsese.

Obie and Drama Desk award-winning puppeteer and MacArthur Fellowship recipient Basil Twist, who has appeared at the Ravinia Festival, is intimately involved in the production. “Basil and I have worked together to develop several magical moments including mice and the growing of the Christmas tree,” Wheeldon reveals. “There is also a very clever representation of the World's Fair in Act One.” He pauses and adds, “I don't want to give too much away though.”

The glorious Tchaikovsky score will be played by The Chicago Philharmonic, under the baton of Scott Speck, music director of The Joffrey Ballet.

The Nutcracker will be presented at the Joffrey’s home venue, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, in downtown Chicago at 50 East Congress Parkway, in 27 performances, Dec. 10 to 30, 2016. Single tickets, priced at $35$170, are available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet’s box office in the lobby of Joffrey Tower, 10 E. Randolph St., as well at the Auditorium Theatre box office, online at Joffrey.org, or by telephone at 312-386-8905.

GIFT CARDS + GIFT SETS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST! LAST MINUTE? PRINT AN INSTA-GIFT ONLINE AT TEDDIEKOSSOF.COM BONUS $15 VALID 12/1-12/31.

SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

847.999.9500 teddiekossof.com 281 Waukegan Rd. 84

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Download our app

Join the Children’s Research Fund in celebrating

25 years of transforming young lives through research

THE CHILDREN’S BALL SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016 Hilton Chicago | 720 South Michigan Avenue Black tie

FOR MORE INFORMATION 312.227.7299 | kcerone@luriechildrens.org childrensresearchfund.org

# T H E AT E R

HOLIDAY HOT TICKETS

BY ROBERT LOER ZEL

Emily Berman from “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley”

This holiday season, Steppenwolf, Northlight and Writers Theatre have some presents for us: new plays, never seen before on local stages. And there’s another gift under the tree — a brand-new theater group in Highland Park.

screen musicals ever, so trying to capture its Hollywood magic in a live stage version is a no-brainer. With esteemed director William Brown in charge, this Marriott production is likely to make a splash.

“MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY”

“DIE FLEDERMAUS”

“THE CHRISTIANS”

Dec. 1 – Jan. 29 | Steppenwolf Theatre Garage, 1624 N. Halsted St., Chicago | 312-335-1650 | steppenwolf.org Lucas Hnath, the smart playwright behind “Isaac’s Eye,” has been winning praise for this drama about a megachurch. The New York Times called it a “terrific play about the mystery of faith,” and Christianity Today said, “It’s a harrowing dig through our hearts.” K. Todd Freeman directs the Chicago premiere.

Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 | Light Opera Works, at Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson, Evanston | 847-920-5360 | lightoperaworks.org As this accomplished company prepares to change its name — becoming Music Theater Works in 2017 — it ends the year with a 30-piece orchestra playing Johann Strauss’ operetta. A husband and wife run into each other at a masquerade. Neither is supposed to be there. Romantic hijinks ensue. Sprechen sie kein Deutsch? Don’t worry — this adaptation is in English.

Other shows worth checking out:

“THE HUNTER AND THE BEAR”

“A Christmas Carol,” Nov. 19 – Dec. 31, Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, 312-443-3800, goodmantheatre.org “East Texas Hot Links,” through Jan. 22, Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, 847-242-6000, writerstheatre.org “Fun Home,” Nov. 2 – 13, Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com “King Charles III,” Nov. 5 – Jan. 15, and Cheek by Jowl’s “The Winter’s Tale,” Dec. 14 – 21, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, 312-595-5600 “Mr. and Mrs. Pennyworth,” Dec. 7 – Feb. 19, Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org “Pygmalion,” Nov. 23 – Jan. 8, Remy Bumppo at Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773-244-8119, remybumppo.org

“SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN”

“Sweet Charity,” Nov. 4 – 20, Northwestern University’s Barber Theater, 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, 847-491-7282, communication. northwestern.edu/tic/

Dec. 7 – Jan. 22 | Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe 847-242-6000 | writerstheatre.org PigPen Theatre’s inventive players — who conjured up so much fun with “The Old Man and the Old Moon” at Writers in 2013 — are back with a new show, told by flickering campfire light. The group uses shadow puppets and folk music to tell the tale of a hunter searching through the dark woods for his missing son.

Through Dec. 31 | Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire 847-634-0200 | marriotttheatre.com The 1952 movie starring Gene Kelly is one of the most beloved 86

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/THEATER

PHOTO BY MICHAEL COURIER

Nov. 10 – Dec. 18 | Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie 847-673-6300 | northlight.org In this newly imagined sequel to Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” Mary Bennet (Emily Berman) grows tired of being the dutiful middle sister. At Christmastime, an unexpected guest offers a chance of love. Jessica Thebus directs this world premiere by playwrights Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon.

“…such magnificence…everything she does oozes class…”

– The Daily Mail

Joyce DiDonato

In War & Peace: Harmony Through Music December 9 / 7:30PM

Use code Gen40 for 40% off tickets.

312.334.7777 | HarrisTheaterChicago.org 205 East Randolph Drive Season Sponsor

Official Airline of the Harris Theater

#BOOKS

GIVE A GREAT READ

7 BOOKS YOU CAN GIFT TO ANY READER (OR NON-READER)

BY RINCEY ABRAHAM

A great book is a gift that never goes out of style. Reduce your holiday shopping stress by picking up one of these seven books for every type of person on your list.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Illustrated Edition J. K. Rowling, Illustrated by Jim Kay

The Grace of Kings Ken Liu

With the release of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” and the film “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” the Harry Potter universe is alive and thriving. This beautiful hardcover edition is a must-own for anyone who loved the original series, or a great way to introduce kids to the series for the first time.

With 100 illustrated scenes by Jim Kay, you can watch the story unfold before your eyes. And if the Harry Potter fanatic in your life already has a copy, then pick up the illustrated edition of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” which came out in October.

The story follows two men during a major rebellion: Kuni Garu, a bandit who suddenly finds himself rising up the military ranks, and Mata Zyndu, a fearless warrior. The two become friends while fighting the rebellion, but once the emperor is overthrown, they end up on opposite sides of the fight as they disagree on the best way to rule the kingdom. The world created by Ken Liu is rich, filled with complex characters, and heavily influenced by Chinese folklore and the Han Dynasty.

This book is great for the “Game of Thrones” fan looking for a new, complicated world to dive into.

When Breath Becomes Air Paul Kalanithi

Paper Girls, Volume 1 Brian K. Vaughan, Illustrated by

Paul Kalanithi was 36 and a rising neurosurgeon when he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. Suddenly he went from learning how to save lives to confronting his own mortality.

Kalanithi passed away in 2015 while writing this memoir and his wife worked to get it published posthumously. This book of Kalanithi’s musings on the meaning of life when he knew the end was very near has already sold hundreds of thousands of copies so far this year and would be a great gift for any reader in your life.

88

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Cliff Chiang and Matthew Wilson Four 12-year-old girls witness a dangerous but spectacular event that changes everything. The comic is set in the 1980s and is filled with cool-toned images that nail the nostalgia and the feeling of growing up and out of childhood. This comic is perfect for the “Stranger Things” fan in your life who wants more of the ‘80s nostalgia with a sci-fi twist. The first volume ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, so consider gifting Volume 2 at the same time in case your reader devours the entire thing Christmas morning.

Homegoing Yaa Gyasi

A multi generational family story, “Homegoing” begins in the 1700s with two half sisters, Effia and Essi, who are born in different tribes in Ghana and do not know that the other exists.

Effia marries a prominent Englishman and slave trader, while Esi is sold into slavery and taken with hundreds of others from the Gold Coast to the United States. The story moves down the family tree and follows the two lines as they separate and struggle with warfare, slavery and discrimination. Yaa Gyasi expertly covers 300 years of family history and shows how the decisions made by one person can have ripple effects farther than they could ever imagine.

Sleeping Giants Sylvain Nuevel

“Sleeping Giants” opens with a girl named Rose, who while riding her new bike through her neighborhood falls into a hole and directly onto a giant, metal hand. No one seems to know where this hand came from or how it got into the ground. Rose grows up to become an extremely successful physicist and is determined to figure out the mysteries behind this giant hand. This book is compulsively page turning and you’ll spend every page wondering the truth about this metal hand, what it can do, and if there are more pieces left to find. Give this to anyone who loved “The Martian” (the movie or the book).

The Trespasser Tana French

Detective Antoinette Conway is not very popular amongst the other detectives in the Murder Squad. She doesn’t play well with others and there is now a campaign to try to get rid of her. Conway and her partner Stephen pull a case that at first looks like a basic lovers’ tiff, but they soon realize there’s more going on. Is this just another chance for the squad to push her out or is there more to the case? Tana French is the master of the modern mystery novel, crafting deep, complex characters who lead the way. Though “The Trespasser” is the fourth book in her Dublin Murder Squad series, each book follows a different detective, so it’s not necessary to read the series in order.

However, if your gift recipient hasn’t read French before, you can’t go wrong with her first novel, “In the Woods,” either.

Read more book recommendations online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/BOOKS

When you rehabilitate at an Alden Post-Acute Rehabilitation Care Center, we help you restore functionality so you can get back on your feet, and home, as quickly as possible.

Your Post-Acute Leader Locations in the Northern suburbs, including Evanston, Skokie, Des Plaines and Long Grove to serve you.

C all us at 1-800-291-5900 or visit www.Th e A lde nNe t work.com

#DINING

The Blanchard’s Dover Sole Meunière

TO-EAT LIST

MOUTHWATERING CHICAGO DISHES YOU NEED TO TRY RIGHT NOW

Duck Inn’s Rotisserie Duck

Will Chicago ever stop upping its food game? We sure hope not. If you’re looking for a great spot for an exceptional meal during the festive season, these are some of the most delicious dishes on offer at the moment. Remember, the holidays are no time to count calories!

DOVER SOLE MEUNIÈRE

The Blanchard This dish was once the gold standard for fine dining; here, chef Jason Paskewitz rediscovers what made it great. Pristinely fresh and sweet Dover sole, sautéed a rich golden brown and dressed with capers, lemon juice and broken brown butter, served with a decadent watercress-potato purée and showered with fresh chervil ($42). Worth every penny. 1935 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago, 872-829-3971, theblanchardchicago.com

ROTISSERIE DUCK

The Duck Inn Chef Kevin Hickey’s Bridgeport hangout has a menu filled with craveable items, none more so than his famous duck, which must be pre-ordered (they make a limited amount each night).

The presentation changes with the seasons; at time of writing it’s served with duck fat potato salad, baby kale, stone fruits, radishes and cherry Duck Sauce ($65); easily serves two.

2701 S. Eleanor, Chicago, 312-724-8811, theduckinnchicago.com

90

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

STEAK TARTARE

Brindille James Beard Award-winning chef Carrie Nahabedian, of NAHA fame goes full-on luxe at Brindille. Don’t miss her hand-chopped tartare of highest-quality beef redolent with flavors of rye, tarragon and sorrel, and served with quail eggs, anchoïade, pickled mustard seeds and caramelized pearl onions. A stunning dish.

534 N. Clark St., Chicago, 312-595-1616, brindille-chicago.com

ARROZ GORDO

Fat Rice Chefs Abraham Conlon and Adrienne Lo cook the cuisine of Macau, a former Portuguese colony in China. Cultures collide in their signature dish, where paella meets Asian ingredients and the result is crazy big … and off-the-charts flavorful. Bursting out of the pot of sofrito-infused jasmine rice, you’ll find chorizo, salted duck, linguiça sausage, prawns, steamed clams, tea eggs, chicken fat-fried croutons, olives and pickled chiles. It’s presented with mushroom soy and hot sauce to gild the lily ($48). Share it with the table. 2957 W. Diversey, Chicago, 773-661-9170, eatfatrice.com

BRINDILLE’S STEAK TARTARE PHOTO BY PAUL STRABBING; THE BLANCHARD’S DOVER SOLE MEUNIÈRE PHOTO BY NEIL BURGER; ADDITONAL PHOTOS BY JULIE CHERNOFF

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

#DINING

Mesa Urbana’s Fish Tacos

Brindille’s Steak Tartare

Steadfast’s Butter-Poached Maine Lobster

Fat Rice’s Arroz Gordo

mfk’s Croquettes

Formento’s Bone-In Ribeye

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

91

#DINING

BONE-IN RIBEYE

Formento’s Executive chef/partner Stephen Wambach served as chef de cuisine at BLT Steak in NYC, and opened BLT restaurants around the world. So it’s no surprise he knows his way around a prime cut of meat. The overwhelming evidence: this 20 oz. beauty topped with smoked MightyVine tomatoes, a fresh and vinegary salsa of chopped shallots, herbs and red finger chiles, and fried rosemary ($56). Possibly the best steak I’ve had all year. 925 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-690-7295, formentos.com

HAND-PULLED NOODLES

Imperial Lamian This Indonesian stunner has been packing them in since their 2015 River North opening. I love to watch the noodle master make the namesake la mian, stretching and hand-pulling the dough from one lump into hundreds of perfect strings. My fave preparation is the wok-fried noodles with tiger shrimp, mixed peppers, bean sprouts and soy, but if you’re a soup person, go for the beef brisket version with bone marrow broth and sesame seeds. 6 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-595-9440 imperial-lamian.com

CROQUETAS

mfk I was first introduced to the magic of croquetas — delectable croquettes that are various savory morsels essentially held together with béchamel sauce, coated with breadcrumbs and fried — on a trip to Cuba many years ago. Ever since, I have ordered them whenever and wherever they appear on a menu.

Chef Daniel Mejia’s croquetas are perfection; currently they are made with smoked chicken and potato with tomatillo salsa ($12).

432 W. Diversey, Chicago, 773-857-2540, mfkrestaurant.com

BUTTER-POACHED MAINE LOBSTER

Steadfast This was a stealth opening but it’s about to become über hot once the word gets out about this Loop resto, which opened before the Kimpton Gray Hotel to which it’s attached. Chef Christopher Davies is sending out gorgeous plates, including this composed stunner that features rich tail and claw meat in an uni/lobster emulsion, topped with house-made brioche and caviar ($62). To share with the table. 120 W. Monroe St., Chicago, 312-801-8899, steadfastchicago.com For more must-eat dishes and restaurant recommendations, visit MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINING

CONVITO CAFÉ & MARKET

french & italian countryside fare / gourmet market / wine shop • Private parties • Full bar • Kids menu • Open 7 days a week • Gluten free menu

• Prepared foods • Bakery • Wines • Cheeses & meats • Gourmet groceries • Catering • Gift baskets

UNCORK YOUR BEST EVENT YET WITH GOOD GRAPES! Good Grapes is your event partner for wine, beer, hostess gifts, and free loaner glassware.

puccini, panettone & plenty of wine THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 6:30-8:30PM 30 wines & great hors d’oeuvres $10 per person

821 Chestnut Court, Winnetka

847.242.9800 • Service@GoodGrapes.com • GoodGrapes.com facebook.com/GoodGrapes

Tues-Fri: Noon - 8pm • Sat: 10am - 8 pm • Sun: Noon - 5pm

Serving the North Shore for over 35 years 1515 Sheridan Rd, Wilmette • 847.251.3654 • convitocafeandmarket.com

PRIVATE PARTIES 路 CATERING NEEDS BREAKFAST 路 LUNCH 路 DINNER 路 BRUNCH From family gatherings to corporate events and festive occasions, now is the time to plan your This season, stop in and enjoy our fall menu and get cozy sipping wine by the fireplace.

A hidden jewel, this Highwood bistro turns out succulent French fare blending classic and modern styles while also

COME TO ENJOY YOUR

HOLIDAY PARTY WITH US still love it over 35 years later.*

*Zagat Guide

anappleadaycatering.com

317 Park AVenue | Glencoe, IL | 847-835-2620

6

WWW.MAKEITBETTER.NET

Brunch-Lunch-Dinner | Private Dining & Catering | Gift Certificates | Events 624 Davis Street, Evanston | (847) 866-6969 | koievanston.com

#GUIDETOG # IHVOI N MGE

THE SPIRIT of GIVING BROOKE MCDONALD

The holiday season is filled with so many sources of delight — twinkling lights reflecting off the snow, the excitement and anticipation of little ones, the pleasure of coming together with family and friends for great meals and company — but nothing warms the heart quite like giving to those in need. Make It Better makes it our mission to help you bring comfort and joy to the most deserving individuals and organizations in the easiest and most effective ways possible. Read on to learn more about some of Chicagoland’s outstanding nonprofits and the best ways that you can provide them with much-needed support.

For a wealth of additional resources, from tips for fundraising to stories and information about inspiring nonprofits, visit makeitbetter.net/philanthropy 9 49 4 N O NV O EVM EM B EBRE /RD/ EDCE ECM EM B E R makeitbetter.net 2 0 1 6 makeitbetter.net

PHOTO <CREDIT>

BY

SPONSORED CONTENT

CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN

GROW YOUR

LIFE STORY

With the Regenstein Learning Campus, the Chicago Botanic Garden has created a beautiful and engaging learning environment for visitors of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. The Learning Center uses a nature laboratory, the Nature Preschool and the Nature Play Garden, as well as traditional classrooms, to generate excitement and curiosity about the natural world.

The Learning Center, based on the community school concept and developed with universal design principles, will encompass learning and wellness activities for children and adults in formal and informal settings. It will serve 25,000 field-trip students and teachers; more than 7,700 adult education participants; 1,850 kids in camp programs and 700 teachers in teacher development programs. An additional 52,000 young people will participate in drop-in programs and events.

We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life.

AV16684 MIB Giving Ad v1 .indd 1

PHOTO <CREDIT>

The seven-acre Regenstein Learning Campus facilitates connections between people and nature through a yearround continuum of nature-based education, wellness and STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) programs.

10/6/16 10:28 AM

#GUIDETOGIVING

Bernie's Book Bank

WHERE TO DONATE ALMOST EVERYTHING

BY OLIVIA ELLIS

Although monetary donations are often the most impactful way to support a charitable organization, many still have a very significant need for goods. Whether you’re cleaning out your closet or bookshelf or updating your furniture, don’t just toss those items — donate them and make a difference to one of the many local organizations in need. Hold onto this guide to where to donate throughout the North Shore and Chicago and make sure your unwanted items always go to someone who needs them.

North Shore Exchange

Evanston School Children’s Clothing Association

northshoreexchange.org Best of 2016 winner North Shore Exchange, which is made possible by the Woman’s Library Club of Glencoe, supports charities that provide human services and education to low-income families in the Midwest. Appointments are not required for donations. Visit their website for an accepted list of designers. 372 Hazel Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-0026

escca.org Cleaning out the kids’ closets? ESCCA provides school clothing and shoes to Evanston/Skokie District 65 K-8th grade school children. They accept clean and gently used children’s clothing and coats. Donations are accepted all year. 1500 McDaniel Ave., Evanston, 847-859-8018

NCJW’s Encore & More

lenscrafters.com/onesight OneSight, which was founded in 1988, provides vision care to more than 8.7 million people in 41 countries. With school-based vision centers, charitable vision clinics and community vision centers, OneSight helps communities in need all over the world. Eyewear donations can be dropped off at LensCrafters, Sears Optical or Pearle Vision stores. Various locations in the city and suburbs, 877-753-6727

Second Time Around Thrift & Gift Shop

WCC Rummage wccrummage.com Winnetka Community House’s annual Spring Rummage Sale donates all net proceeds to more than 40 humanitarian agencies in the Chicagoland area. Donate new or gently used kids and adult clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry and more.

630 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, 847-446-0575

ncjwcns.org/encore-more Encore & More is the National Council of Jewish Women’s major fundraiser; they are in need of donations of high-end clothing and jewelry. Donations are accepted Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1107 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-853-8888

shores2ndtime.com With all proceeds benefiting Shore Community Services to improve the quality of life for those with developmental disabilities, Second Time Around accepts gently used clothing, shoes, accessories and more. Call the store before visiting to ensure they are accepting donations that day. 4123 Oakton Ave., Skokie, 847-673-3172 96

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

LensCrafters OneSight

PHOTO COURTESY OF BERNIE'S BOOK BANK

Clothing and Accessories

#GUIDETOGIVING

Dress for Success Chicago

worldwidecentral.dressforsuccess.org Gently used suits and professional apparel donations allow Dress for Success to provide interview outfits for women, supporting them in their efforts to achieve their career goals.

The program also offers guidance and support for women who have an upcoming interview. Donations must be clean and ironed, and no more than five years old. 515 N. State St. #3240, Chicago, 312-527-0925

Chicago Bears Coat Drive

centralusa.salvationarmy.org/metro/coats For 27 years, the coat drive has provided coats to those in need during the cold winter months. Coats can be donated at all Jewel-Osco locations in the Chicagoland area beginning in October. Various Jewel-Osco locations, 773-205-3520

Junior League of Evanston-North Shore Thrift House

jle-ns.org/thrift-house Drop off clothes, shoes and accessories, as well as small furniture, home decor, housewares and books, at the JLE-NS Thrift House Monday through Saturday. Find more information and hours online. 920 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-441-0995

Electronics Recycling for Charities

recyclingforcharities.com Donate used cell phones, iPods, digital cameras and PDAs by printing a shipping label from the website and sending donations to RFC. RFC makes a donation to the charity of your choice for each item you part with. 866-630-7557

Zealous Good

zealousgood.com Fill out a form on the website specifying what you would like to donate, and Zealous Good will reach out to charities that are interested in your item. You will then receive an email where you can choose a charity and drop off your donations.

2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago

Cell Phones for Soldiers

cellphonesforsoldiers.com Donate your used cell phone or tablet to Cell Phones for Soldiers, a nonprofit supported by AT&T that provides troops and veterans with communication services. Gently used items from all wireless carriers and brands are accepted. Device donation and shipping costs are tax-deductible. Print a shipping label from the organization’s website. 678-580-1976

Secure the Call

securethecall.org Secure the Call collects cell phones, turns them into 911 emergency access phones, and donates them to senior citizen centers, domestic violence shelters and police and sheriff departments. Various drop-off locations in the Chicagoland area, 301-891-2900

Verizon Wireless HopeLine

verizon.com Similar to Secure the Call, Verizon provides cell phones for domestic violence victims. Used phones, batteries and accessories are accepted. Drop off your phone at any Verizon Wireless store.

Various locations, 847-706-1733

Books Donate at your local public library! Call ahead to see if there are any books they don’t accept (like textbooks).

Books4Cause

books4cause.com Donate gently used books to Books4Cause, an organization that, through used book donations, has created 20 libraries in Africa, and keeps books out of landfills. All K-12 books given to the organization are donated, and 13 percent of other book donations are sold while the rest are given away or recycled.

Drop them off at their location in Skokie, or donate $25 to the African Library Project to qualify for a full-service book pickup. 3415 Madison St., Skokie, 800-570-3698

Bernie’s Book Bank

berniesbookbank.org Make It Better Philanthropy Award winner Bernie’s Book Bank collects new and gently used children’s books to distribute to at-risk homes throughout the Chicagoland area. Each child the organization serves receives at least 12 books a year. Drop-off locations throughout the North Shore, 847-780-7323

Chicago BWP

chicagobwp.org This volunteer organization distributes paperback books to women’s prisons nationwide to encourage education and self-empowerment. Visit the website for specific books BWP is looking for. You can either drop books off at the Chicago location or send them via USPS. 4511 N. Hermitage Ave., Chicago

Open Books

open-books.org Open Books collects used books to sell in their Pilsen and West Loop stores and online. The money collected helps fund book granting programs for thousands of students around Chicago each year. The organization accepts “any sellable book in good condition,” as well as LPs, CDs and DVDs. There are various drop-off locations in Chicago, including one in Northbrook.

To inquire about a free pickup, fill out the form on the website.

Various drop-off locations, 312-475-1355

Cradles to Crayons

cradlestocrayons.org Providing low-income and homeless children with clothes, books, school supplies and more, Cradles to Crayons helps serve nearly 200,000 children living in poverty in Chicago.

Various drop-off locations throughout the North Shore, 812-444-9889

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

97

#GUIDETOGIVING

Furniture Salvation Army and Goodwill

salvationarmyusa.org | goodwill.org Both provide pickup service and a tax receipt. Visit each organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website or call to schedule a pickup time.

Various locations

Brown Elephant Resale Shops

howardbrown.org/brown-elephant Brown Elephant supports Howard Brown Health using money earned from the resale of donated items. Bring in any upholstered furniture, tables, dressers, bookcases, etc. Visit their website for a full list of accepted items, as well as a pickup request form. Note: pickup service has a suggested donation of $10.

4025 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago, 773-388-1600

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

windycityhabitat.org/restore All proceeds from the ReStore go to Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that works to provide families with affordable, safe housing and has built 90 homes in Chicago neighborhoods. Visit their website for a list of acceptable items. To donate, fill out the form on the website or send pictures of the items to donate@restorechicago.org.

6040 N. Pulaski Road, Chicago, 773-539-6040

World Relief Chicago

worldreliefchicago.org/donateitems World Relief Chicago provides cleaning supplies, linens, toiletries, kitchen items and furniture to immigrants and refugees who have fled their countries due to war and displacement. Visit their website to inquire about a drop-off or pickup.

3507 W. Lawrence, Chicago, 773-583-9191

RefugeeOne

refugeeone.org By providing opportunities and goods, RefugeeOne helps refugees fleeing war and persecution from all parts of the world. The organization is currently accepting backpacks and school supplies, but donation needs vary by month. View the calendar of donations on their website. Contact Amy Hill at ahill@refugeeone.org for more information. 4753 N. Broadway St. #401, Chicago, 773-989-5647

Seniors Want to Live Well in Their Home We Make it Easy Providing Home Care Solutions for Seniors High Quality People

Personal Assistants are matched based on capabilities and personality

Customized Service

Providing the services you want, no more, no less

Flexibility

Ability to adjust to your changing needs

Hadassah Resale Shop

With proceeds benefiting Hadassah Medical Organization, Hadassah Resale Shop accepts clothing and furniture. Call the store to arrange a furniture pickup at no additional charge.

405 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, 224-415-3994

*Full range of skill levels from CNA to RN

For even more great places to donate, view the complete guide at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DONATE. And if you have a favorite place to bring your donations that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see on our list, email us at info@makeitbetter.net.

To learn more about how to value your non-cash donations come tax time, turn to page 100.

98

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

847.728.0134 www.BroadStreetHomeCare.com

Home for the

Holidays

From our family to yours, keeping our communities safe, and productive.

WE PROVIDE HOUSING, COUNSELING, AND EMPLOYMENT FOR MENTALLY ILL ADULTS ON THE NORTH SHORE.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Reception Tuesday, December 13th, 6-8PM

Terra & Vine

(Alpana Singhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new place in Evanston) $40 per individual ticket, $75 for two tickets (includes two glasses of wine and appetizers) To register, visit http://tinyurl.com/glnb3e3 or call Beth Ida Stern at 847.866.2989.

2100 Ridge Avenue Evanston, IL 60201 847-866-2977 housingopt.org

Saturday, June 10, 2017 at 7:30PM

Fields BMW

700 Frontage Rd, Northfield, IL 60093 For more information, contact our Chief Development Officer, Beth Ida Stern bistern@housingopt.org

#GUIDETOGIVING BET TER YOU | beauty

BANG FOR YOUR CHARITABLE BUCK

BY S U S A N PA S T E R N A K

During this season of giving, many take the opportunity to make annual gifts to deserving nonprofits. Here’s what you need to know about the tax implications of your charitable donations.

When it comes to charitable giving, Americans are generous, donating hard cash, appreciated stock, even art.

Last year, we collectively gave a record-setting $375.25 billion in charitable dollars, with 71 percent of that coming from individuals, as opposed to foundations or corporations, according to Giving USA, which publishes an annual report of philanthropy in the U.S. based on research conducted by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

In high net worth households, giving is on the rise with about 98 percent donating to charity in 2013, compared to about 95 percent in 2011, according to the 2014 U.S. Trust Study of High Net Worth Philanthropy. The 2015 results from this biennial study were released, after this magazine went to press.

People are inclined to donate for a number of reasons; mostly, it’s because they feel good giving and recognize a need. However, there are also tax incentives to charitable giving. To be sure, as we would expect from the Internal Revenue Service, giving — especially for high net worth individuals — requires an attention to detail few lay people possess.

“My job is to help them to do it in the most tax-efficient way,” says Ramsay Slugg, managing director and member of the

100

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

National Wealth Strategies Group at U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management. “It’s going to be different for different people, depending on income, and what types of assets they own. It’s a customizable design.”

There are three main vehicles for making charitable donations: a straightforward monetary donation of cash, a check or an appreciated asset (i.e., stock) are the most common and simplest ways to gift. The tax benefit is a function of one’s marginal personal income tax rate. For example, a person in the highest tax bracket of 39.6 percent who contributes $1,000 to a qualified charitable organization will get $396 of that donation back as a credit against his/her tax liability, plus a deduction at the state level.

However, more sophisticated vehicles for gifting could provide greater tax benefits. Individuals or families often choose to set up their own private foundations or donor-advised funds that serve as intermediaries between the donor and the receiving charity, without ceding control as to where the funds are distributed.

With these vehicles, donations to public charities yield higher tax deductions than to private charities. Generally speaking (and you can be sure, there are myriad exceptions), one can write off up to 50 percent of adjusted gross income when donating to a public charity versus a write-off of 30 percent when giving to a private foundation.

#GUIDETOGIVING

Public charities are organizations such as churches, hospitals, qualified medical research organizations affiliated with hospitals, schools, colleges and universities, and nonprofits (The Greater Chicago Food Depository is just one example).

They actively raise funds and receive contributions from many sources. Private foundations, on the other hand, typically have a single major source of funding (think the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation) and tend to grant money to other organizations rather than operate charitable programs.

A third vehicle is known as split-interest giving. With a splitinterest charitable gift, the asset is split into two parts: income that is produced by the asset and the principal remaining after the income interest is paid. Through a properly designed charitable trust, a split-interest gift may provide a current federal income tax deduction, a reduction in the federal estate tax bill, and/or an avoidance or delay of a capital gains tax.

“After evaluating a donor’s personal situation, I often recommend the donor advised fund, which has the best tax benefits, but it is not always the most appropriate vehicle for some donors who are better suited for creating their own private family foundation,” says Susanna Poon, director of philanthropy services with CTC | myCFO, a part of BMO Financial Group.

Charitable giving is not a profitable endeavor. Instead, people donate money for a number of reasons related to their values and long-term goals for their families.

“Most family offices donate money to the charities that have special meaning to the family member[s],” says Ryan Liss, president of Caliber 88 Tax & Wealth Planning Services, Inc. in Highland Park. “A family foundation allows them to create an entity which greatly furthers family unity and acts as a fantastic teaching tool for the younger generations.”

The fact that there are these options is good news for those seeking tax-efficient ways to put their money to work for good. And with the current strength in the financial markets — the Standard and Poor’s 500 is at or near an all-time high depending on the day — analysts expect the current upward trend in giving to continue.

“Unless we have some sort of hiccup in the economy, I think we will see a consistency of record giving,” Slugg says.

For help finding the causes and nonprofits most deserving and in need of your charitable donations, visit MAKEITBETTER.NET/ PHILANTHROPY

Santa Saturdays at the Museum Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t easy.

Reaching us is.

We’re here day or night — whenever you need us — offering reliable information and support.

Saturdays, December 10 & 17

Free 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900

If you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss or dementia, you are not alone. We’re here day and Dementia Center: alz.org/care or Alzheimer’s night — whenever you need us — offeringCaregiver reliable information and support.

Free 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Center: alz.org/care

For more information and tickets visit

DriehausMuseum.org

40 East Erie Street Chicago, IL 60611 info@driehausmuseum.org N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B Make E R 2 0 it 1 6Better makeitbetter.net

1/4 page 3.5” x 4.9”

101

PHOTO <CREDIT>

PHOTO <CREDIT>

Timed tickets for 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., & Noon Adults $15; Children 3-12 years $10; 2 years & younger are free

#GUIDETOGIVING

Sister Rosemary Connelly (left and above) has improved the lives of countless Misericordia residents like those pictured here.

SISTER ACT

BY SUSAN B . NOYE S

This holiday season, get inspired by extraordinary Chicagoan Sister Rosemary Connelly, whose tireless 47-year leadership of Misericordia/ Heart of Mercy has facilitated spectacular growth and impact.

It’s nearly impossible to say “no” to Sister Rosemary when she sets her mind to something. Not only is her heart in the right place, she’s also a brilliant strategist. She knows who to ask, what to ask and when to ask. Fueled by a deep appreciation for the blessings found in each and every resident, their families, staff members and generous supporters, her ability to address the problems and challenges she encounters moves other to help.

102

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

The first seven years of Sister Rosemary’s tenure were spent on Chicago’s South Side, where Misericordia was originally located. On a cold, wintry day 40 years ago, she moved 39 children with developmental disabilities who were in her care, along with 36 staff members, to Misericordia’s current location, the site of a recently closed orphanage.

Since then, Misericordia has grown into a beautiful, 31-acre campus of more than 20 residences and buildings. It also includes 10 Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) in the neighborhood that house more than 60 adults. This loving, caring environment — the hallmark of Misericordia — provides a full continuum of residential care, continuing academic learning experiences, job training and work opportunities, social and recreational activities, and opportunities for spiritual growth to children and adults with a wide range of intellectual and developmental disabilities.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MISERICORDIA

When Sister Rosemary Connelly sees need, she acts — and resources follow. Her vision and determination as executive director of Misericordia/Heart of Mercy for 47 years have been instrumental in growing the residential community on Chicago’s North Side for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities into an extraordinary place where people are accepted, challenged to do more, and encouraged to embrace life to its fullest.

#GUIDETOGIVING

LOVE PERMEATES THE WHOLE.

Early on, Sister Rosemary understood Misericordia’s vulnerability in relying solely on public funding and government-dictated policies to care for its unique population. So over the years in addition to receiving much-needed government support, she has developed a broad base of private support to fund a variety of life-enriching programs for Misericordia residents.

“Every time we saw an unmet need,” she explains, “we grew a new program.” Today, Misericordia offers on-campus work opportunities in places like the Hearts and Flour Bakery, Greenhouse Inn Restaurant and HeART Studio Workshops; a range of physical, occupational and speech therapies; health and fitness resources; singing and dancing groups; and so much more. “We’re blessed to share these programs with more than 600 residents and 1,000 staff [members],” she beams.

Misericordia now stands as one of the nation’s leading communities for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities — and continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of its residents. When Sister Rosemary began her work 47 years ago, a child born with an intellectual or developmental disability did not have a long life expectancy.

Today, with improved medical care for the population it serves, Misericordia is addressing the growing needs of its aging adults.

Earlier this year, it opened four warmly furnished homes custom designed for seniors to meet their increasingly complex medical and nursing needs.

Misericordia’s support includes a broad cross-section of prominent Chicagoans — from former Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka, Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews

and Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon to the city’s savviest corporate leaders and politicians across the state. Every year, Misericordia is part of the Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity event. And, in recognition of her enormous accomplishments, Chicago Magazine named Sister Rosemary a 2014 Chicagoan of the Year.

In this era of divisive politics, Sister Rosemary is a unifying force, generating bipartisan support and inspiring others to lobby our Illinois state government so Misericordia and other programs serving individuals with a range of disabilities can continue to operate effectively. “Going through any government process is demanding,” she admits, “but one of the truly great joys has been the wonderful bipartisan support of Misericordia from our government officials. Both elected and appointed officials have taken time to tour Misericordia’s campus, including Governor Rauner. All have been impressed and have become our friends.”

The Misericordia community is most vibrant during its annual Family Fest, which was held this year on Sunday, Sept. 11, (Make It Better was proud to be a media sponsor).

More than 15,000 attendees enjoyed entertainment, games, food and drink, and family fun, and celebrated Misericordia’s 40th anniversary at its North Side location. Leading businesses, organizations and individuals across the Chicago metropolitan area joined together as sponsors to support the “Fest” and Misericordia’s residents as they continue to live productive, meaningful and happy lives.

To donate or learn more about Misericordia, visit MISERICORDIA.ORG

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

103

For all your sweet treats and gift giving... magic comes in

Give a Little, Get a Little When you open a new Student Checking Account at First Bank of Highland Park we will deposit $50* into your account and donate $50* to the Chicagoland charity of your choice. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s giving made easy.

Contact one of our Personal Bankers today and let us show you what we can do for you.

www.firstbankhp.com | iTunes | GooglePlay *New Student checking customers only. The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for the Student Checking is 0.05% and is accurate as of 5/15/16.

This rate is variable and subject to change. No minimum deposit is required to open the account and receive the bonus. You must maintain a minimum daily balance of $ .01 or greater in the account each day in order to earn the APY. The $50.00 cash bonus will be credited to account and the $50.00 donation will be made when the account is opened. Limit one donation request per household. Donation requests can only be made for 501(c)3 (not-for-profit) organizations in the Chicagoland Metropolitan area. Any organization failing to meet the requirements will not receive a donation. FBHP Foundation will make the donation on behalf of the account holder, and advise the qualifying organization of the account holderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in the donation referral. There is no tax write-off benefit to any account holder making the referral. Open the account by 12/31/2016 to receive bonus. Fees may reduce earnings. For IRS purpose Bonus is 1099 reportable

Highland Park

Northbrook

1835 First St., Highland Park, IL 60035 (847) 432-7800

633 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, IL 60062 (847) 272-1300

NMLS# 421795

Trees That Feed Foundation TTFF plants trees to feed people, create jobs and benefit the environment. By providing over 100,000 trees from TTFF supporters to communities throughout the Caribbean, we have already helped reduce hunger. Join us.

1750 Harding Road Northfield, IL 60093 info@treesthatfeed.org treesthatfeed.org facebook.com/treesthatfeed

335 Waukegan Ave Highwood, IL- 1.847.926.4438 thebentfork.com Since 1999

Swim In Chicago’s Rivers?

Donate.

Volunteer.

Connect.

By 2030, that’s the plan.

Help CJE continue to help over 23,000 seniors and their families through life enrichment, supportive resources, healthcare, research and education.

CJE SeniorLife & You Can Make a Difference! $500 provides ten seniors with diabetes education and lifesaving screenings $375 covers four days of Adult Day programming for seniors with Alzheimer’s

Metropolitan Planning Council, along with Mayor Rahm Emanuel, numerous partners and thousands of Chicagoans, created “Our Great Rivers,” the first-ever vision for the Calumet, Chicago and Des Plaines rivers. Residents and visitors alike will experience Chicago’s rivers and riverfronts in a whole new way.

$100 delivers ten hot, nutritious kosher meals $36 pays for two round trip rides on the Shalom Bus for medical appointments or family gatherings

Learn more at greatriverschicago.com.

773.508.1000 | www.cje.net.

CJE SeniorLife™ is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community.

773.10.2016

metroplanning.org 140 S. Dearborn St. Suite 1400 Chicago, IL 60603

#GUIDETOGIVING

BY

ANNA CARLSON

GIVE TIME t VOLUNTEER DURING THE HOLIDAYS Misericordia Heart of Mercy 773-973-6300 | misericordia.org Misericordia is a home for 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that provides the full continuum of care to maximize independence, self-determination, interpersonal relationships and community engagement. The holiday season is Misericordiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busiest time and there are many holiday volunteer opportunities available for special events and in the bakery. For more information, visit misericordia.org or contact Theresa Rooney (theresar@ misericordia.com) or Mary Doherty (marydo@misericordia.com) for volunteer opportunities during this holiday season in the Misericordia Hearts & Flour Bakery.

SUPPORT REFUGEES u RefugeeOne 773-989-5647 refugeeone.org MIB Philanthropy Awardwinner RefugeeOne aids refugees fleeing war, terror and persecution by helping them build new lives here in the Chicago area. RefugeeOne is looking for 2017 wall or desk calendars for apartments being prepared for incoming families. Calendars are helpful as refugees schedule meetings with their mentors and practice English. Drop off calendars at 4753 N. Broadway, Suite 401, Chicago.

A REFUGEEONE MENTOR REVIEWS ENGLISH MATERIALS WITH A REFUGEE FAMILY.

106

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION

GI V E T H I NGS

HOLIDAY VOLUNTEERS ARE ALL SMILES AFTER A REWARDING DAY OF SERVING THE MANY GUESTS THAT ATTEND THE MISERICORDIA HOLIDAY BRUNCHES.

#GUIDETOGIVING

GI V E SU PP ORT q HELP CHILDREN IN CRISIS Mothers Trust Foundation 847-482-9189 | motherstrustfoundation.org By providing hope and building confidence, Mothers Trust Foundation (MTF) supports Lake County’s lowincome children during times of crisis. MTF, an MIB Philanthropy Award winner, guarantees donations will directly provide benefits and emergency assistance when a child needs it. Donations can be mailed to 400 E. Illinois, Lake Forest, IL 60045, or visit MTF’s website.

THOUSANDS GATHER AT THE CHICAGO WALK TO END ALZHEIMER'S. THOSE HOLDING PURPLE FLOWERS HAVE LOST SOMEONE TO THE DISEASE.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION

p SUPPORT ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH AND CARE Alzheimer’s Association — Greater Illinois Chapter 312-315-5496 | alz.org/illinois During National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month (November), support the Alzheimer’s Association — Greater Illinois Chapter. As the cost of care continues to grow, your donation will help the association provide care and support to both those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, in addition to funding research to find a cure.

EACH WEEK MTF PROVIDES GRANTS TO CHILDREN IN LAKE COUNTY TO FILL THE GAPS WHEN OTHER FUNDING CAN’T. CONTACT MTF TO ATTEND THE WEDNESDAY MORNING GRANT REVIEW MEETINGS.

t DONATE DURING NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH The Cradle 847-475-5800 | cradle.org November is National Adoption Month and you can support The Cradle’s mission to provide education, guidance and support to children and families touched by adoption. Donate today to support The Cradle’s work caring for vulnerable babies, supporting those facing an unplanned pregnancy, educating adoptive and foster parents, counseling children and families and meeting the needs of diverse families.

IS YOUR PASSION HELPING CHILDREN AND FAMILIES? SUPPORT THE CRADLE.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

107

#GUIDETOGIVING

BETTER MAKERS AND THEIR IMPACT

U. S . HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM

Top sponsors include: The Crown and Goodman Families, Harris Family Foundation, The Michael P. Polsky Family, Linda and Richard Price and Family, Karyn and Bill Silverstein, The Bluhm Family Charitable Foundation, Kovler Family Foundation, The Malkin Family, The Sacks Family, Jamie Diamond Schwartz and David Schwartz, Sheila and Joseph Gutman and Family, J. B. and M. K. Pritzker Family Foundation, Ted Schwartz Family Foundation, Zell Family Foundation

Mally Rutkoff of Highland Park, right, and Marlene Rubenstein of Glencoe, left, were two of the many volunteers who helped escort the more than 300 Holocaust survivors who attended the Chicago luncheon as the museum’s guests.

Midwest Director Jill Weinberg of Highland Park and Honoree Clementine Wamariya.

Wamariya, who grew up in the Chicago area, was honored with the museum’s National Leadership Award for her work on genocide prevention. She is the youngest award recipient at 28 years old.

Kathy Paddor Rotholz and David Rotholz of Highland Park 5

4

Event chairs Linda Levinson Friend, left, and Bill Friend, right, of Lincoln Park with their daughter Nina Friend

108

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Governor Bruce Rauner and Diana Rauner

PHOTOS BY LYNN RENEE PHOTOGRAPHY AND LELAND MEINERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Money raised at this luncheon will support the museum’s $540 million comprehensive campaign, “Never Again: What You Do Matters.”

2016 “ WHAT YOU DO MAT TER S” LUNCHEON SEPT. 14, 2016 • Sheraton Grand Chicago • $5.16 million

#GUIDETOGIVING

2016 CELESTIAL BALL | SEPT. 10, 2016 Adler Planetarium • $1.6 million

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ADLER PLANETARIUM

ADLER PLANETARIUM

2016 Corporate Partner Award: S&C Electric Company

Craig Fox, Patti Shuma, Marilyn Lovell, Capt. James A. Lovell, Jr., Susan Lovell and Perry Georgopoulos

Naveed and Raheela Anwar of Winnetka

Adler employee and dog whisperer Emily Fern with Astro

Proceeds will benefit exhibitions, shows and programs at Adler

REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO DINNER DANCE SEPT. 2 3 , 2016 • Morgan Manufacturing • $1.5 million Event co-chairs: Kathleen Cowie, Clea Costa Van Voorhis and Liz Warnock

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RIC

Kathleen Cowie of Kenilworth, Liz Warnock of Winnetka, Julie Allen of Chicago and Clea Costa Van Voorhis of Chicago

Will Jones of Chicago, Leah Hope of Chicago, Martha Idler of Evanston and Jason Knowles of Chicago

Cameron Zick injured his spinal cord during a mountain climb in Colorado and was told he would never regain full function of his body from the neck down.

After rehabbing at RIC, Zick has returned to his active lifestyle.

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

109

#GUIDETOGIVING

FIELD MUSEUM

FIELD AT THE GRIDIRON SEPT. 6 , 2016 • Soldier Field Field Museum donors, scientists, former Chicago Bears players and other notable Chicagoans came together for an evening of museum presentations, tours, the opportunity to kick a field goal and more. The Founders’ Council welcomed 19 new members at this event.

Field Museum President and CEO Richard Lariviere, Bears Chairman George McCaskey and Field Museum Trustee and Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts

Museum Trustee Liz Sharp and former Chicago Bear James “Big Cat” Williams

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FIELD MUSEUM

Jim Johnson, Casey Keller and Jeff Sharp try some Bears helmets for size.

The Chicago Bears drumline opening the event

61ST ANNUAL GOLD COA ST FA SHION AWARD SHOW SEPT. 21, 2016 • Revel Fulton Market • $300,000

ANN & ROBERT H .

LURIE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

The event’s sponsors included GCM Grosvenor with Schuyler and Jonathan Levin, Reed Smith, JHL Capital Group LLC, Jones Lang LaSalle, The PrivateBank, CBRE, Hearn, and Turner Construction, among others

PHOTOS BY ROBERT CARL

Mike Nicolas, Patrice Hunt, Lauren and Mike Donofrio, all of Chicago

Neiman Marcus fashion

110

Michael De Paulo gown

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2016

makeitbetter.net

Aliki (middle, pictured with her family) is 12 years old and battling a brain tumor.

Money raised during the fashion show will benefit patients like Aliki at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

#GUIDETOGIVING

RAGDALE

RAGDALE’S 40TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SEPT. 17, 2016 • Ragdale • $65,000

PHOTOS BY WILLIAM HARTMAN

Jessica Cornish performed during the event. Funds raised will support The Ragdale Foundation, which provides more than 150 artists and writers time and space work.

Bob & Annelise Crawford, Lake Forest

Roberta Haebler, Lake Bluff; Neil Harmen and Carrie Nelson, Wheaton; Weezie & Jack Kramer, Chicago

Changing Lives. Building Futures.

GIVE A GIFT THAT REMOVES BARRIERS… For 70 years, students at The Cove School have benefited from our intensive individualized instruction and highly specialized program, while learning in an environment that is specifically designed for students with learning disabilities.

To learn more about Cove, join us for an Open House or request a private tour. Please contact Dr. Sally Sover, Executive Director, at 847.562.2100 or ssover@coveschool.org.

Cove also welcomes volunteers to help with student programs and fundraising events. Please go to our website and click on the Giving link to learn more.

350 Lee Road • Northbrook, IL 60062 847.562.2100 • Fax 847.562.2112 • www.coveschool.org

Merit School of Music is dedicated to removing financial, geographic, and other barriers to high-quality music education and transforming the lives of nearly 5,000 Chicago-area youth.

Your gift today will give students and families continued access to music education!

Support Merit with a donation today! meritmusic.org/donate

Joy Faith Knapp Music Center 38 South Peoria Street, Chicago, IL 60607 312. 786. 9428 I www.meritmusic.org

“Go see it to believe it, because otherwise, you are going to miss the most important thing in your life.”

—Joe Heard, former White House photographer, watched Shen Yun 6 times

Early bird code: Mag17 Get best seats & waive fees by Dec. 15th, 2016

Advent Worship

Sundays, November 27 to December 18 9 and 10:30 a.m.

Choral Music Sunday December 4 9 and 10:30 a.m.

Lessons and Carols December 11 9 and 10:30 a.m.

Quiet Christmas Worship December 15 7:30 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship December 24 3, 6, 9 and 11 p.m.

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS KENILWORTH UNION CHURCH

Christmas Day Worship

All are welcome to attend.

December 25 10:30 a.m.

kuc.org | 211 Kenilworth Avenue | Kenilworth, Illinois | 847-251-4272

KELLOGG CENTER FOR NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT

Combining broad expertise in nonprofit leadership development with deep insight into your core issues, the Kellogg Center for Nonprofit Management can help you confront the management issues that challenge you most.

Your mission.

Our MOTIVATION.

Whether it’s overcoming fundraising dilemmas, keeping teams motivated and on mission or measuring your impact, we make your mission our primary focus through our: • Distinctive, holistic approach to strategic nonprofit leadership development and our emphasis on putting leading-edge theory into practical application.

• Programming focused on the subject matter most relevant to your success, from fundraising, innovation and social entrepreneurship to marketing, finance and strategic leadership.

• Collaborative learning environment informed by Kellogg’s expert faculty and enlivened by interactive peer learning and networking among highly motivated participants.

Visit EXECEDNONPROFIT.KELLOGG.NORTHWESTERN.EDU or call 847.491.3415 for more information or to register for upcoming programs.

# C LO S I N GT H O U G H T S

2 1

4

3

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”

CHRISTKINDLMARKET PHOTO BY JIM PRISCHING; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH EVENT

HAMILTON WRIGHT MABIE

5

6

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS 1. Hanukkah Concert with The

Maxwell Street Klezmer Band at Chicago Botanic Garden; chicagobotanic.org 2. Magnificent Mile Lights Festival; themagnificentmile.com 3. Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza christkindlmarket.com 4. Illuminations at the Morton Arboretum; mortonarb.org 5. Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier; navypier.com 6. St. Lucia Festival of Lights, Andersonville andersonville.org

7

RULES FOR BETTER LIVING

To achieve something you’ve never had before, you must do something you’ve never done before.