Suburban Family ~ Jan + Feb 2018

JAN/FEB 2018

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At the AMITA Health Pediatrics Institute, your child can receive highly personalized, compassionate care from our board-certified doctors and nurses specialized in pediatrics. Our caregivers help keep your child at ease and you well informed, whether during an inpatient stay or outpatient visit. Our kid-friendly environments offer the latest medical technologies to help meet the unique needs of children. From simple checkups to treatment for serious conditions, we help ensure our youngest patients receive the highest level of pediatric care that only AMITA Health can provide.

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contents

january/february 2018 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sara Barry Rhonda Franz Pam Molnar Sherry Wells

EVENTS EDITOR Colleen Sall PUBLISHER Jim Wolf CO-EDITORS Sue Wolf Jim Wolf ART DIRECTION Tim Devine Cory Ottenwess

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out & about

8

Put the “Win” in Winter

seasons

Winter Boredom Busters Safety Playgound Tips On Stage

celebrate!

23 Winter Birthday Party Ideas Party Places Special Occasions Party Planner Parties By the Pros Tips for Throwing an Engagement Party

active kids

Fueling Young Athletes Fit & Fun Activites

17

fitness first 30 Yoga for Kids and Families Fitness Events

family wellness Fight Oxidative Stress

32

great events

34

dining out

41

#1 family events calendar City Events

Superb romantic and family places to dine out!

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ADVERTISING Sue Wolf Laura Zolper CIRCULATION Lou Fracassi Chicago Suburban Family Magazine C E R T I F I E D C I R C U L AT I O N Suburban Family Magazine and www.subfam.com target the Chicago suburban family consumer with valuable information on family activities, advice and resources.

Suburban Family is published bi-monthly by Jameson Publishing, Inc. and is distributed free to the public through quality locations in the Chicago suburbs. The full edition is online at subfam.com and chicagosuburbanfamily.com.

Unless otherwise noted all articles, formatting techniques, photographs, artwork, and ad designs printed herein are the sole property of Jameson Publishing, Inc. and may not be duplicated or reprinted without Jameson Publishing’s express written permission. Suburban Family and Jameson Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers. The sponsored ads and editorial do not necessarily express the views of Suburban Family Magazine and Jameson Publishing, Inc. Readers should verify advertised information with advertisers.

education central 28 Music Therapy…Key to Healing Education Resource Seven Signs That Your Child Could Have ADHD

ADVERTISING AND GENERAL INFORMATION:

activities, advice and resources for the chicago suburban family contents 4

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Office: (630) 863-7183 | Fax: (866) 779-4320 Suburban Family Magazine P.O. Box 1266, Westmont, IL 60559 mail@subfam.com

www.subfam.com www.chicagosuburbanfamily.com January/February 2018

THE PLACE WHERE AWESOME LIVES

Through Mar 4, 2018!

Sponsored by With in-kind support from

THE PLAYING FIELD FOR LIFE. Through March 4, 2018, enjoy our latest exhibit,

Build It! Build upon your imagination and get creative with blocks in a wide selections of shapes and sizes. See for yourself why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives!

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

Your Summer of Adventure and Learning Starts at InZone!

Harper College Enrichment and Sports Camp for Ages 8-14 June 4 – August 10, six sessions — choose one, two or all six weeks.

Registration Opens March 5 • Make a Multiplayer App or Game • Explore Virtual Reality • Develop Your Cooking Skills • Become a Master of the Outdoors . . . all in one day.

1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL 847.925.6300

harpercollegece.com/inzone

23875 JE12.2017

The opportunities are unlimited at InZone.

seasons

By Pam Molnar

I

f you are lucky enough to experience all four seasons, you know that winter can sometimes be a drag. The cold and snow feel relentless, leaving us to wonder if we will ever see summer again.

However, when the wind dies down and the sun comes out, winter’s unique playground is hard to beat. If you are looking for outdoor winter fun beyond building a snowman, and sledding, take a look at a dozen activities to put the “Win” in Winter...

1. Go on an ice cube scavenger hunt – Mix water with food coloring and pour into dollar store ice trays.When frozen, hide in the snow with just a peak of color showing and see how quickly the kids can find them.

6 seasons

2. Create ice mosaics – You will need a your footprints, create a maze. You can either round cake pan and a plastic cup. Rub the design as you go or find a maze design online outside of the cup with Vaseline and place in and try to recreate it.

SUBFAM FILL small 1 12/15/17 11:35 AM Page 1 the middle of the pan. 12.17:Layout Add some of nature’s colorful items – leaves, small berries, sticks, 4. Have an outdoor picnic – Set up a picnic table complete with table cloth. Bring out a tureen of hot soup or a crockpot of chili.

Create a DIY hot dog bar with all the trimmings and roast your hot dogs on sticks over the fire pit. For dessert, make your own snow ice cream.

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small pebbles and enough water to cover. Let freeze overnight. When frozen, place bottom of the pan in hot water to loosen edges and remove ice from pan and cup. Place outdoors near a window.

3. Make a snow maze – Find an open area in your yard or park with fresh snow. Using suburban family | subfam.com

5. Make snowpeople stencils – Use foam board to create stencils of shirts, pants, hats and shoes plus people heads and hands. Fill water bottles with colored water and spray over stencil to create colorful snowpeople.

6. Freeze bubbles – When the weather drops below freezing, head outside and blow some bubbles.Try blowing the bubbles directly onto a glove or snow pile to see it’s beautiful patterns. Warning: Bubbles that freeze in midair might break when it lands.

January/February 2018

Enjoy a Winter Scavenger Hunt

Take a hike in the forest or just walk around the neighborhood while looking for the 15 items on this list.

1. Pinecone 2. Icicle 3. Leaf still on a tree 4. Bird foot prints 5. Rabbit foot prints 6. A cardinal 7. Bird seed 8. A squirrel

9. A snowman 10. Christmas decorations that are still up 11. Acorn 12. Bird’s nest 13. Pine needles 14. Feather 15. A lost mitten or glove

7. Winter shot put – Freeze colored water in small balloons overnight. The next day, make colored lines in the snow with paint and have players throw their ice ball as far as they can.You can also use those frozen colored ice balls for snow golf or snow tic-tac-toe.

9. Bring winter indoors – When the kids can’t play unsupervised, bring the snow inside to the bathtub. Let them build, create and play with the snow while sitting on stools just outside the tub. When play is over, let the snow melt and wash down the drain.

11. Build a snow volcano – Fill a disposable cup with baking soda and a few drops of food coloring. Place in snow and mound the snow up around it to resemble a volcano. Do not cover the top of the cup. When you are ready, pour vinegar into cup and watch the show.

8. Make a snow castle – This is just as much fun with snow as it is doing with sand, except you can’t color the sand! Pull out your sand buckets, shovels and molds to create a castle and then accent with paint, colored water or items you find outside.

10. Make your own slushies – Fill cups with snow, packing it down tight. Pour soda or carbonated flavored water over the snow for a quick treat.You can also make your own snow cone syrup with equal parts of water and sugar and a package of Kool-Aid mix.

12. Winter mini trip – If the snow is sparse in your city this year, take a weekend trip nearby to enjoy dog sledding, winter ziplining or ice fishing. Check neighboring cities for outdoor winter festivals that embraces the snow, even if they have to create it themselves.

W_SuburbanMag_7.62x4.79.indd January/February 2018

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10/23/17 11:53 AM seasons 7

out & about

One of the most popular ski resorts in the Midwest is Cascade Mountain. Located on Interstate 90/94 between Madison and Wisconsin Dells, Cascade is a large area with 45 ski trails, 12 lifts and snow tubing. Phase I of a three-phase expansion project has was completed last season.This $9 million dollar project included two new lifts, nine new trails, additional snowmak8 out & about

ing, an expanded main lodge, paved parking and base area improvements.The Wisconsin Dells is just 15 minutes away from Cascade, and the city of Portage is even closer. Families with children save a bundle at Cascade Mountain because kids 12 and under ski free when accompanied by a paying adult. For more information, go to www.

FB LIKE fill 12.17:Layout 1 12/15/17 cascademountain.com

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STAY CONNECTED

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W

hen the chilly temps hit the Chicago suburbs, it can be easy to just slip into hibernation mode.

But, don’t let the cold weather freeze your family’s fun. Lucky for you, we’ve got a great variety of indoor and outdoor activities to keep the whole family entertained and moving through these cold wintry months.You won’t want to miss these family-friendly, winter fun happenings......

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+ Win Prizes!

Join Rockford’s Burpee Museum of Natural History in celebrating “20 Years of PaleoFest” March 3-4, 2018. PaleoFest is an event like no other, featuring talks on exciting new finds, upcoming research, and a window into the current work of noted paleontologists from around the world. Home to a world-class collection, Burpee is proud to continue this tradition with workshops for kids, family events suburban family | subfam.com

and research-based talks. For more information visit www.burpee.org or call 815-9653433. [See our ad on Page 3.]

Now part of Vail Resorts with $13M in Reno80 years of winter fun at Wilmot Mountain and experience our new Children’s Learning Center, Main Lodge transformation, three new quad lifts, expanded Terrain Parks, upgraded food & beverages and season long events! Ski, snowboard and tube with us this season. 11931 Fox River Road, Wilmot, WI. www.wilmotmountain.com

11:45 vations.

AM PageCelebrate 1

Visit Creek Bend Nature Center for fun, interactive exhibits. There’s plenty to see and do – both inside and out! Learn all about oaks. See what the Fox River might look like below the surface. View bison in our prairie wild exhibit.

Enjoy scavenger hunts, hikes and scheduled nature programs.Visit www.kaneforest.com or call 630-444-3190. At Creek Bend Nature Center, you can explore galore! Open Monday – Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., and Saturday – Sunday from noon – 4 p.m.Admission is always free.

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles.

January/February 2018

January/February 2018

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out & about 9

“Your local water gardening and koi club.”

JAN 19TH:

FEB 16TH:

Club Meeting Topic: Golden Orfes

Club Meeting Topic: Kloubec Koi Farm

Bohemian Crystal, Westmont IL

Location: TBD

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EVENTS & CONTACTS CALL 312-409-2081 OR VISIT WWW.MPKS.ORG

Seventeen interactive hands-on exhibits to spark curiosity and inspire a love of learning for children ages birth to 8. Through March 4th, test your design and construction skills in our Build It! exhibit. Recreate famous Chicago skyline sights, test the strength of your buildings on our earthquake table, and dive into our large blue Imagination Playground blocks to build whatever you can imagine! See for yourself why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives! Located at 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview. 847-832-6600. kcmgc.org [See our ad on Page 5.]

Drums | Dance | Music | Games | Sushi | Food | Toys | Sumo | Origami

Theme:

Feb 3 (Sat) 12-4pm

School

@OPRF High School 201 N. Scoville, Oak Park

Martial Arts | Craft | Chopsticks | Calligraphy | Kimono | Face-Paint This event is sponsored in part by JCCC Foundation

Come learn and play with us at our annual Japan Fest on Saturday, February 3 from 12 to 4 pm. This year’s theme is “SCHOOL!”.

Watch amazing performances, learn to speak Japanese, make crafts, sample delicious Japanese food and drinks, and play fun games! We have lots of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy!

Saturday, Feb 3 from 12 till 4pm. Free Admission.Oak Park River Forest High School.201 N. Scoville Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

EMBRACE WINTER WITH A SMILE! Ski, Snowboard, and Snow Tube at Villa Olivia and look forward to winter every year.

Beginner to Advance Ski/Snowboard Runs * Quad Chair Lift * 6 Rope Tows * Ski and Snowboard Lessons Rental Equipment * Snow Tubing with Conveyer Lift * 100% Snow Making Ability * Ski Lodge * Ski Café

Ski and Snowboard Hours

Snow Tube Hours (2 Hour Ride Tickets)

Wed-Fri 5-9:30pm Sat/Sun 9am-10pm

Thurs/Fri 5-9:30pm Sat/Sun 9am-10pm

Holiday Hours

Jan. 15, Feb. 19, & March 2 9am-10pm

Winter Break Hours

Don’t miss TransWorld’s Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL on February 15-18, 2018. Why attend the JF&A Show? So you can SEE IT, TOUCH IT, COMPARE IT, then bring it home to enjoy.

Find jewelry, fashion, accessories, gift, beauty, home décor, gourmet foods, housewares, and more, from 200 leading wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers and resellers from around the world. Shop for yourself, your family, and friends for every occasion and celebration. A day at a TransWorld’s JF&A Show adds up to a great time and better deals than you will find in any mall. Get FREE gifts just for attending and buying at the show. NEW FOR SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18th: You can bring your kids ages 9-16 with an accompanying adult to the show.

Register kids on-site only and a $5 fee applies.

They will receive a FREE Emoji Keychain as a gift from us. For complete details, visit our website at: www.jfashow.com to register.

Get involved this year in “Your local water gardening and koi club.” The first club meeting on the tpic of Golden Orfes will be on Jan. 19th at the Bohemian Crystal, Restaurant in Westmont.. Our second meeting of the year will be on February 16th on the topic of Kloubec Koi Farm. Meeting place toTBD. For more information on events and contacts, please call 312-409-2081 or visit www.MPKS.org

Dare to do something different this winter!

Learn to ski/snowboard or bring the family and friends for snow tubing. With six ski runs and a double wide tube hill Villa Olivia offers winter fun in your own backyard. We can even make our own snow! The season runs through March 4th. Villa Olivia is located at 1401 W. Lake Street in Bartlett. For hours of operation and weather related information visit villaolivia.com or call 630-289-1000.

(Jan. 2-5) Mon-Fri 9am-10pm

www.villaolivia.com 630-289-1000 Villa Olivia is conveniently located off Route 59 at 1401 W. Lake Street in Bartlett 10 seasons

Fleetwood Roller Rink (established 1957). is a family owned business. Our venue hosts public skating, birthday parties (our specialty) privates and fundraisers. We promote family fun for all ages plus for “health sake, roller skate” Come visit us and join in our fun. Instruction available every Saturday at 1 pm Check for our ongoing specials and public skating times www.fleetwoodrollerrink.com [See our ad on Back Cover.]

*Show th when you pu is ad slope ticket rchase a or pass and re snow tube ceive hot chocol free ate.

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January/February 2018

There is something exhilarating about playing outside when the air is cold and there’s a hint of snow. The crisp air brings about a carefree atmosphere that seems perfect for playtime.

However, parents and caretakers shouldn’t be carefree about winter playground safety.

If you want your kids to have fun outdoors, follow some practical advice so they can play without getting hurt.

JEWELRY • FASHION • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS • DÉCOR • BEAUTY • HOME & GOURMET

Find helpful safety tips on the next page...

SEE IT, TOUCH IT, COMPARE IT, BUY IT TRANSWORLD’S

Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show FEBRUARY 15-18, 2018

DONALD E. STEPHENS CONVENTION CENTER - HALL G 5555 N River Road, Rosemont,IL

REGISTER ON-LINE TODAY AT www.jfashow.com

Register using source code: MAGAZINE PUBLICATION AD

You will receive your barcode registration confirmation via email upon completion.

If you are a first time visitor to the JF&A show, bring this ad to the show and registration fee is waived. If you have attended before, there is a $5 registration fee payable on-site cash only with ad.

JEWELRY • FASHION • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS • DÉCOR • BEAUTY • HOME & GOURMET

January/February 2018

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NEW SHOW HOURS

SHOW HOURS

THURSDAY TRADE BUYER PREVIEW HOUR 9:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. ALL BUYERS 10:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. FRIDAY - SUNDAY 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

800.323.5462

SUNDAY ONLY,

IT’S BRING YOUR KID TO THE SHOW DAY.

Kids 9 – 16 will be allowed on the show floor with an accompanying adult. KIDS register ON-SITE ONLY. They must pay a $5 fee, and must present proof of age.

They will also receive a FREE gift at registration.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday, NO ONE under 16 will be admitted.

PHOTO ID and PROOF OF AGE REQUIRED.

out & about 11

Always know the temperature before going outdoors

Test all outdoor surfaces and playground equipment first

Frostbite isn’t a walk in the park (or a hop in the playground). It can happen very quickly once the wind chill factor gets below -18ºF. Children are especially susceptible to it because they can’t always tell when they’re being overexposed to extreme cold.

Television shows and movies may be exaggerating with the licking-snow-off-a-steel-pole-andgetting-tongue-stuck scenarios, but the truth is, you can’t really predict the silly things kids will do in the name of play! Playground equipment made of metal can freeze really fast and cause various injuries. Make sure to test them for ice, rust, and other dangers before allowing kids to play on them. If you find the surfaces too slippery, cold, or showing some potential danger, it’s best to let the kids play indoors on rubber and plastic playground equipment.

Some ways to check if it’s safe to let young kids play outdoors: • Tune in to weather forecasts or keep an app at the ready. You can install a thermometer near your door outside so you can decide if it’s a stay-in kind of day.

• If you aren’t sure about the wind chill index, you can either use an online calculator to determine it for you, or consult the National Weather Service. They issue advisories and warnings that are best to heed.

• Keep your kids indoors for playtime, instead. No amount of bundling up with clothes can keep them safe from extreme chill and other dangerous factors.

• Watch out for hypothermic symptoms.

Shivering is a recognizable one, but also check for dizziness, nausea, fatigue, fast breathing, confusion, and hunger.

Check the ground for slipperiness Once you’ve determined that the temperature is suitable for outdoor play, make sure the ground is slip-proof and fall-proof. Falls and slips are already primary playground hazards on nice days, let alone snow days. Let hardened snow melt first, shovel a clear path and area for the kids, and treat icy areas with salt. Cordon off areas that need to be treated long-term so children don’t go wandering in and injuring themselves.

Ground coverage like soil, sand, wood fiber, and grass can absorb and retain water.

With chilly temperature, it’s easy for them to freeze and become slippery. Rubber mulch doesn’t absorb water, so it’s safer to play on during winter while providing sufficient fall protection.

Avoid scarves, drawstrings, and other articles of clothing that could strangle As with warm-weather playground safety, always have kids properly attired for play. This means no scarves, drawstrings, belts, ribbons, necklaces, and other clothing details and accessories that could get caught on playground equipment.Tube neck warmers might be a better alternative to keeping kids bundled up outdoors.

Keep a first-aid kit ready When young children at play are involved, a first-aid kit is a must at all times. However, winter brings with it a unique set of potential safety hazards, so add a few items for cold-day preparedness: • Instant hot chocolate or chicken broth packs - they can help hypothermic kids warm up their core temperature while providing much-needed calories • Thick gloves, socks, and leg and arm warmers - arms, legs, hands, and feet are body parts that need to be kept warm for blood to circulate properly. If a child exhibits hypothermia, quickly cover his or her extremities with these items of clothing • Extra towels and fleecy blankets - they can help maintain proper body heat while keeping kids dry, warm, and comfortable.

Rhianna Miller is the playground design and safety expert at https://rubbermulch.com/, the original and environmentally responsible mulch made from 100% recycled rubber used in gardens, playgrounds and sustainable landscaping. Rubber Mulch is weather resistant, durable, and the most cost effective mulch around and is specifically designed to protect children from falls on the playground all year long.

12 out & about

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January/February 2018

Larry Dominick PRESIDENT

Ice rink

Open 7 days a week

weather permitting

$1.00 for Cicero residents $5.00 for non-residents $1.00 for Cicero residents $3.00 for non-residents

Bobby Hull Ice Rink 3400 S. 53rd Ave Cicero, Illinois (1/2 block west of Laramie on 34 Street)

WEDNESDAYS FREE for CICERO RESIDENTS AND MORTON STUDENTS Check out our Facebook page for monthly schedules, weather updates and more information: January/February 2018

suburban family | subfam.com bobbyhullcommunityicerink

For more information, contact Jim: jimterracino@thetownofcicero.com out & about 13

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N Chicago St., Joliet The Rialto Square Theatre, the Jewel of Joliet, presents a wide variety of fun family shows, top concerts, comedy, theater, and other great performing arts shows. The nearly 100-year old venue is one of the top 100 destinations in Illinois and has been listed by many media outlets as one of the ten most beautiful theaters in the country. Its live acoustics are outstanding, making for great live experiences. The 2018 calendar is quickly filling up with an outstanding lineup of shows across all genres of music, theater, comedy and family including such acts at Dennis Miller, The Manhattan Transfer, Buddy Guy, Lewis Black, Los Lobos, Daughtry, Jim Jeffries, Decades Rewind, 3 Doors Down, and more!

Located in the heart of downtown Joliet, the Rialto Square Theatre is easy to access from all major southwest suburb highways. Tickets for all Rialto Square Theatre shows can be purchased at www.RialtoSquare.com

Overshadowed Theatrical Productions 900 Foster Avenue, Medinah On Golden Pond, By Ernest Thompson February 9 - March 3. Summer has returned again to Golden Pond, and so has Norman Thayer, a retired professor, and his wife, Ethel, who are back for a 48th year at their idyllic summer cottage. As Norman approaches his 80th birthday, they are visited by their estranged daughter, Chelsea, and her fiancé, who go off to Europe and leave his teenage son behind for the summer. The boy quickly becomes the “grandchild” the elderly couple have longed for. While their bond strengthens, intimations of mortality are in the air with a growing sense of urgency for Norman to make peace with his daughter.When she returns, Chelsea is married and her stepson has the relationship with her father that she always wanted. Will father and daughter be able to communicate at last? For tickets, visit overshadowed.org or call 630.634.2100. [See our ad on the Inside Back Cover.]

14 out & about

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January/February 2018

FOR TICKET INFORMATION, VISIT RIALTOSOUARE.COM 0 R CALL ticketmaster® AT 800-745-3000. d. �y

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January/February 2018

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out & about 15

Marriott Theatre

Rosemont Monster Jam®

10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire.

Allstate Arena, Rosemont

The Emperor’s New Clothes runs February 23 - May 12, 2018. Factured

The most family-friendly, action-packed motorsport in the world races

fairytale from the creators of Seussical! Fourteen-year-old Emperor Mar-

into the Allstate Arena on March 2-5, 2018.

Featuring the eight most intense athletes of Monster Jam, fans will witcus the Third is nervous to take the throne. Deciding thatSUBFAM he can only gain FILL small 12.17:Layout 1 12/15/17 11:35 AM Page 1 ness a fierce battle for the championship with each competitor using confidence by dressing in the finest attire, Marcus commands his Royal Clothesmaker to fashion him in the most royal wardrobe. Taking advantage of Marcus’ uncertainty and immaturity, a Swindler promises to make magic clothes that are “invisible to fools, liars, and anyone you should ignore,” for a large and hefty price.

A special one-hour presentation for kids (and par-

customized high-powered vehicles: Monster

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Jam Speedsters, Monster Jam ATVs and the famous Monster Jam trucks.

Unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable, Monster Jam takes center stage in the world’s most iconic venues, sporting meticulously manicured dirt tracks created with the sole

ents) of all ages. All performances followed by a

purpose of pushing these perfectly engi-

Question & Answer session with the cast. Marriottt

neered, larger-than-life trucks to the limit.

Theatre,. Box Office at 847-634-0200.

Monster Jam is one of the only sports where male and female worldclass drivers, some generational rivals, are equals competing for the same championship on the same track.

For more information on a Monster Jam near you, please log onto MonsterJam.com

The Boat, RV & Sail Show McCormick Place - South There’s a boat or RV for every lifestyle, activity and budget, and this show allows you to compare all your options at one time, in one place. Multiple kid activities. Jan. 10 - 14th. Ticket information can be found at chicagoboatshow.com

Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series Located in Batavia Winter at Fermilab is filled with performances from across the globe. Join us for great fun for the whole family on February 24 at 7 pm when the Golden Dragon Acrobats from China bring a colorful array of dazzling feats to Ramsey Auditorium. On March

24Monat 8pm, it’s one of Ireland’s hottest new groups, The High Kings.

sterthe charts, this group’s latest release Irish Voice’s Record Topping ofTrucks the Year and they have taken the US and Ireland by storm. On April 28, the Villalobos Brothers use their violins and voices to redefine contemporary Mexican music. Their original compositions masterfully blend elements of jazz, rock, classical and Mexican folk

to deliver a powerful message of love, brotherhood and social justice. Lectures and chamber music as well, all at the Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series. Tickets and more information available at events.fnal.gov/arts-lecture-series. Tickets also available by phone at 630/840.2787. [See our ad on Inside Back Cover.]

16 out & about

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January/February 2018

celebrate!

By Rhonda Franz

C

hildren with winter birthdays might have the good fortune of sharing their special day with classmates, but they also get the short end of the stick when it comes to outdoor activities. If party guests trek over snow and ice to help celebrate, reward them with a spectacular time. Don your hats, your coats, and your sense of adventure.

If It Snows 1. Snow Angel Competition. Indicate on the invitation that party guests should dress for the outdoors. Divide the party into two teams and see how many snow angels each January/February 2018

group can make on their side of the yard for a designated amount of time.

2. Snow Man Creation Competition. Provide a variety of accessories for kids to use as they build their snowman. Items include winter coats and scarves, hats, rocks, sticks.

Adults and siblings judge snowman appearance on elements including speed of construction, creativity, use of materials, largest, etc.

3. Snowy Day Obstacle Course. Set up an obstacle course with: • balance beam walk (line is drawn in the snow where children have to walk as if they were on a balance beam) • somersault station: do a somersault in the snow while wearing bulky coats and hats • angels obstacle: make three snow angels on the ground before running to the next obstacle • snowball bounce: make a snowball and try and shoot it through a basketball hoop or in the center of a hula hoop laid on the ground • sled station: push yourself on a sled (while lying on stomach and using hands) suburban family | subfam.com

Snow a No-Show? No Problem 4. Paper Snowball Fight. Wad scrap paper or newspaper into snowball-sized balls (about ten balls per child invited), and put in a box or bucket. Use a large space outdoors, or indoors with furniture moved aside. Line up chairs or boxes across the room to create a barrier and scatter the

Celebrating our 23rd year!

Tot Rock and Kid Rock Music & Movement Classes (ages 1-5 years) offered at park districts in the Chicagoland area.

Music and Dance Parties (ages 1-5 years) Sing, Dance, Play! Enrollments being accepted now at your park district!

Rock ‘n’ Kids, Inc. www.rockitkids.com

847-961-6584 celebrate! 17

SWIMMING, SNORKELING, CPR, and SCUBA classes!

HAVE YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY WITH US!

BUBBLEMAKER BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Parties for children age 8 to 80, everyone gets to go underwater.

paper snowballs, about half on each side.

Divide kids into two teams. For three to four minutes, let kids throw snowballs back and forth over the barrier. Whichever team ends up with the fewest snowballs on their side wins the game.

5. Winter Bingo. Have popcorn and hot chocolate available during the game. Search online for age-appropriate “winter bingo game printable” and print out on card stock.

Make sure to have enough game cards for each participant, and don’t forget to print

Fleetwood Roller Rink Heated pool on location 16336 South 104th Avenue Orland Park, Illinois 60467

708-226-1614

info@scubaemporium.com Serving the Midwest since 1974 Eager to help you in all your aquatic needs.

Fleetwood Roller Rink (established 1957) is a family owned business. Our venue hosts public skating, birthday parties (our specialty) privates and fundraisers. We promote family fun for all ages plus for “health sake, roller skate” Come visit us and join in our fun. Instruction available every Saturday at 1 pm Check for our ongoing specials and public skating times www.fleetwoodrollerrink.com [See our ad on Back Cover.]

Safari Land Let Your Adventure Begin!

Safari Land has everything you need for a complete adventure. Whether it’s bowling, video games, rollercoaster, kiddie carts, food or other fun, Safari Land is the place for your party. Come ride the tiger terror...take a spin in our 360 degree, fullmotion, 3D flight simulator,…play in our soft play area, or throw some strikes during cosmic bowling. Contact us today for additional event information and to book your next adventure of a lifetime. 701 W. North Avenue, Villa Park. 630-530-4649.

Visit www.safarlandfun.com

Scuba Emporium

Back in 1974 when Patrick Hammer opened his first SCUBA STORE , in the local area, many people thought he was nuts. Today after tens of thousands of certifications, and earning the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) highest rating of Platinum Course Director, he is still overseeing the day to day task at SCUBA EMPORIUM, a PADI Career Development Center. Located at 16336 S. 104th Ave. in Orland Park. For 18 celebrate!

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and cut the game cards out ahead of time, too. Save these game cards in a gallon-size zipper storage bag for future snow days.

6. Play a game of Twister with children wearing all their winter accessories: hats, scarves, and mittens.

7. With adult supervision, let children follow

young adventurers, the Bubblemaker Party is an introduction to the thrill of breathing underwater and a unique and exciting party idea! For information about scuba, snorkel and swim lessons and party options, call 708 - 226-1614, or visit: www.scubaemporium.com

Oak Brook Park District

Book your next party or special event at Oak Brook Park District. Our new Inclusive Family Locker Room is now available!

This innovative new feature makes it easier for families to enjoy all the benefits of Oak Brook Park District’s nationally recognized and award-winning facilities. The public community space features lockers, suit dryers, and sinks. Families enjoy access to private dry changing areas and rooms fully equipped with showers and bathrooms! The fully accessible facility ensures families that have children with special needs or adults that require the assistance of home health aides can access to the very best in park and recreational opportunities. Visit www.obparks. org for more info.

Rock ‘n’ Kids

Kid Rock ‘n’ Roll parties really keep the beat! Our interactive parties are filled with music, dance, instruments, props, creative play, and fun! Our energetic party leaders will bring the music entertainment to your indoor or outdoor location. Get your camera ready for our musical parade, parachute games, the freeze dance, a balloon celebration and much more! Our parties are for 1-6 year olds. Sing, dance and play the Kid Rock way! www.rockitkids.com / 847-961-6584.

January/February 2018

directions for making a cup of hot chocolate—while wearing mittens.

8. F or younger children, a read aloud from The Snowy Day or The Polar Express.

9. Serve popcorn and show winter-themed movie.

10. Have kids thread large marshmallows on short kabob sticks.

11. Serve apple cider with cinnamon sticks.

12. Let the guests help make snow candy. Jobs include gathering the snow, mixing syrup or sugar on the stove with supervision, and pouring in the snow.

13. Cut angel food cake cut into large cubes to look like blocks of ice.

14. Let party guests make snowmen using large marshmallows, pretzel sticks for arms, miniature peanut butter cups and cookies for hats, and licorice pieces for faces.

Sports tJ\us\c Private Pool Princess Hero Parties Parties parties Parties part\es Rentals Experience the convenience of our new Inclusive Family Locker Room!

www.obparks.org

15. Serve up winter snow cone from snow outside and grenadine syrup or snow cone syrup.

16. Pass around apple slices with small bowls of caramel dip.

17. H ot chocolate bar. Provide guests with a variety of toppings to customize their hot chocolate with a variety of choices: whip cream, sprinkles, and ground cinnamon.

18. White cake pops 19. Craft kit for children to make their own snowman at home. Include round construction paper pieces for the body, and craft materials for face, hat, buttons, and arms.

20. I nclude a kit in zipper storage bag for kids to make an edible snowman at home (just like the one they made at the party).

21. White gumballs.

22. Cocoa packets & small mugs.

23. A pair of mittens or gloves.

January/February 2018

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celebrate! 19

Special Occasions Party Planner Unforgettable events begin long before the guests arrive.

By Sherry Wells

Whether a small gathering or a large soiree for a couple of hundred guests, a successful party will be remembered for years. The basics of party planning are the same regardless of the size of the guest list. Just be realistic, make a plan and stick to it. Try to get as much done prior to the day of the event as possible. We’ve put together some helpful advice about how to create a memorable event with unforgettable flair.

Being a good host means planning well and considering the variables involved in having a 20 celebrate!

party: the reason for the celebration, the size of the event, the venue, the budget, the time of year and more. Allow adequate time for planning. Many event planners suggest three months (for events other than weddings) as FB LIKE fill 12.17:Layout 1 12/15/17 optimal, but many hosts work with less.

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very special event — from a wedding, quinceañera, family reunion, to a milestone birthday celebration — starts with a wish to bring together the people you love in celebration of life’s most precious moments.

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The date of the party is usually the first decision made. Next, consider the person or people for whom the party is being given and the demographics of the guests. Knowing who is coming to the party affects everything from the types of dinnerware, the music and the seating.

Everyone works on a budget. Not all of us suburban family | subfam.com

have the resources and time to hire wedding planners and party organizers to celebrate important days of your lives. Since we often think of the celebration as synonymous with splurging, these special occasions can feel 11:45 AM Page 1 challenged. After all, it’s hard to enjoy yourself when all you can think about is the amount of money a party or wedding planner is charging you.You don’t have to skimp on an anniversary, birthday, engagement or any other special days just because you are on a budget.

It’s important to get the location of the party set because the setup, timeline, flow, decor and more can be dependent on the space. If you’re going to have a party and it’s not going to be in your home, then you have to find a venue.

If the venue presents safety issues, hire a professional — a lifeguard for a pool party or an off-duty police officer for security — to ensure the safety and security of guests. Reducing risk is a worthwhile investment.

Having a party at home eliminates the cost of January/February 2018

renting a space, but there are advantages to having your party away from home. There is no lengthy at-home preparation, house cleaning, yard work or post-party cleanup. When it’s over, you can just walk away.

Think about decorations and themes after selecting the venue. Some decorative items may be included with the rental, while at other places you may need to bring in flowers and decorations specific to your plan. If it’s a theme party, keep the motif in mind when selecting a venue and assessing decor.

Inspiration can be found anywhere. You can find decorative ideas on websites like Pinterest. But you should focus on what makes sense for the occasion and the interests of the person the party is for.

There are several DIY party ideas and accessories available on the internet that will help you celebrate that special occasion with much gusto and style. Celebrating a special day- be it your own wedding, engagement, throwing the best birthday bash, or a theme party, it is rather a challenging and exciting time, that churns up your creative juices that can leave one exhausted and confused. Especially when one desires

January/February 2018

to be innovative and wishes to throw a party that leaves the guests spell bounded.

There are several websites that provide amazing Party Loot Bags and accessories that are affordable and unique.

If food is a priority and your budget allows, party planners suggest hiring a good caterer to cut down on a host’s prep time and allow them to enjoy the event. Event planners work on reduced costs and can get better prices with vendors, so hiring an event planner or caterer may save you money. Most venues have a list of event planners they’ve worked with and can recommend.

Choose the caterer which follows your budget and try to set the menu accordingly. It is really important to stay within your budget because you have many other things to consider as well.

Food choices will vary according to the age and tastes of the guests. Older guests may prefer more traditional fare and modes of serving, while younger guests respond to interactive food stations that involve more decision-making, such as building their own burger and choosing their own toppings.

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Hiring food and drink servers frees a host to mingle with guests and enjoy the festivities. If you can’t afford a service staff, recruit family members or college students to tend bar or serve.

Another option is a self-serve buffet, which just needs to be refreshed periodically, and limit the drinks offered to options that don’t have to be made on the spot, such as punch, beer, wine and premixed cocktails.

Any entertainment you choose should be appropriate to the occasion and the environment and not compete with it.

Why not pump up the fun and up the ante with an engaging interactive party activity. Not only with this give your celebration a unique twist beyond just drinks and a bite to eat, but also creates great social interaction between your guests. Quick and simple competitions help generate fun competitive rivalry and a guarantee of a memorable celebration for all involved!

As obvious as this one sounds, be sure to enjoy yourself. A well organized party offers a great way to catch up, celebrate and share quality time with family and friends.

celebrate! 21

Crystal Lake Park District

How can we help make your party or event a success? Crystal Lake Park District community rooms and facilities provide a unique backdrop for any family party or special event. Additionally, most facilities offer breathtaking views of our parks and beaches. We can accommodate groups of any size, 10 to 200. Our venues suit any style of event, casual to elegant. For more information call 815-459-0680.

Cantigny Weddings in 2018

Wedding memories you’ll cherish forever begin at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, the beautiful 500-acre former estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick. Choose from four beautiful garden settings for ceremonies and three elegant reception venues including the new-for-2018 Woodside Pavilion at Cantigny Golf. Incentives are available as we fill out our 2018 bridal calendar. Contact our professional planners at weddings@cantigny.org or 630-260-8145.

For details, visit Cantigny.org.

Mon Ami Gabi

Planning a special event? Our traditional French bistro is perfect for your next private party, business gathering or special event. Mon Ami Gabi is pleased to accommodate parties in our two private rooms and dining area (up to 250 guests). Available seven days a week for lunch, dinner and breakfast meetings, choose the cozy, always-accommodating Mon Ami Gabi. Contact Jessica Cavanah to inquire: jcavanah@leye.com or call 630-472-1900. [See our ad on p. 41.]

Fleetwood Roller Rink

Fleetwood Roller Rink (established 1957). hosts public skating, birthday parties (our specialty) privates and fundraisers. Is there a more exciting way to celebrate an occasion?

We certainly can’t think of any! If you have a date in mind just call and let us know. We’ll check availability and begin to put your party plan in motion. Raise big money for your organization and have fun too! Parties available 7 days a week! Call (708) 458-0300 for more

info. Check for our ongoing specials and public skating times www.fleetwoodrollerrink. com [See our ad on Back Cover.]

Chateau Orleans Banquets

Chateau Orleans Banquets is the elegant banquet hall directly attached to Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe in Darien. Not only does it make the perfect destination for weddings, it also can accommodate business meetings, special events, private functions and so much more.

The room which can hold up to 300 people can also be divided into different sizes as well to accommodate parties of any size! The room features a spacious dance floor, a stage and a bar.The food is exclusively provided by Chuck’s and the menu offers a wide array of choices for you and your guests. Be sure to take advantage of our renovated Gazebo which makes for a perfect picture spot in the spring and summer!

For booking and pricing contact our Banquet Managers at 331-431-4000 or visit our website at www.chateauorleansbanquets.com for more information.

FOOD PROVIDED BY:

OR.LEANS

www.ChateauOrleansBanquets.com

8025 5. Cass Ave, Darien, IL 60561 - 331.431.4000 22 out & about

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a II

FOLLOW US ON YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS, DISCOUNTS AND MORE!

January/February 2018

Tips for Throwing an Engagement Party

time. Creative and affordable meals can be things like a baked potato bar with green salad, spaghetti and meatballs, hamburgers and munchies, or chili and cornbread. Each of these things can be easily prepared for a crowd ahead of time.

If you want to serve alcohol, keep it simple amd stick to beer and wine. Or, set up a mimosa bar – guests can pick their poison by adding a variety of different juices and fruits to their champagne Give your desserts a dash of custom appeal by making donut diamond rings. Just print out diamond shapes and add edible glitter to create your very own “rings.” (See photo.)

Toasts & Gifts.

Toasts are not as expected at an engagement party as they are at a shower or rehearsal dinner. However, the host can kick off the th eparty with a welcome toast to the couple and guests.

Invitations & Guest List.

A formal, printed invite is not required. If you need to cut your budget somewhere, this might be the place to do it, especially if your guest list is small. Social media works just fine for this casual get together. Don’t invite anyone that won’t be invited to the wedding.

If the couple hasn’t set their wedding guest list, stick to very close friends and family, just to besafe.

Food & Drink.

Make sure to set a party time that coordinates well with your budget. If you only want to serve small bites, don’t host the event around a meal

Guests shouldn’t feel obligated to bring a gift for the couple, but some people don’t like to come empty-handed. Even if there are many gifts, don’t make time to open them the way you would at a shower. Have the couple simply take whatever was given to them at the end of the night.

Decorations.

Decor doesn’t need to be a budget-buster.

Share the bride and groom’s love for each other with a photo board and a welcome sign in the entryway to set the tone for the event.

Personalize your partyby adding the happy couple’s monograms to various areas around the party. Add some festive color to each table. Start with a pretty jar of colorful flowers, and then attach a cluster of bright balloons.

Activities.

No one will expect games at an engagement party. However, you can prepare a few activities to break out in case of emergencies.Play bar-style trivia games about the couple’s love story. Create your own engagement-themed photo booth props to get people into the mood! You don’t necessarily have to have a photo booth, either… once guests have a glass or two of wine, they’ll start using them in all of their iPhone snapshots.

January/February 2018

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celebrate! 23

active kids

FEULING YOUNG ATHLETES Y

oung athletes face distractions that can keep them from eating properly. From school and homework to training and competition, they don’t always pay attention to how they fuel their bodies or take the time to understand the role nutrition plays in supporting their training and goals. Heather Mangieri, a national media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, says there are six food rules that athletes, coaches, and families should employ to help bring about that understanding. She reveals them in her book, Fueling Youth Athletes (Human Kinetics).

1. Eat meals—no grazing. Mangieri dislikes the word “snack” because it conjures up visions of chips, pretzels, sweets, or a single piece of fruit. She would prefer to replace “snack” with “mini-meal” and encourages young athletes to eat one or two of them each day be-

tween regular meals. These mini-meals should

Using food as a reward

contain at least two food groups and include

teaches young athletes

should also be filling so that they help the ath-

to categorize foods as good or bad and can

a source of high-quality protein. The foods lete feel satisfied until the next meal.

2. Never use food as a reward. Mangieri stresses that you should never use food as a re-

lead to negative feelings

ward for good behavior. Using food as a reward

about food.

good or bad and can lead to negative feelings

teaches young athletes to categorize foods as about food. While studies show using tasty foods as a reward makes them more enticing,

24 active kids

suburban family | subfam.com

January/February 2018

making kids stay at the dinner table until they

hungry, they are likely to grab the first thing

finish their vegetables makes them less interest-

they see. So, if the cabinet if filled with chips,

ed in healthy food. Instead, families should use

pretzels, and sweet treats, there is a high like-

other items as rewards for good behavior, such

lihood the kids will choose those items. Tell-

as books, music downloads, or movies.

ing kids not to eat those things will not work.

3. Be a role model. Giving advice is easy, but youth athletes are much more likely to do what their parents and coaches do, not what they say.

The mother of three active children herself, she thinks parents should not only tell their young athletes how to eat healthfully but also show them how to eat healthfully. Similarly, coaches can do this by providing the right options for recovery or by selecting eating establishments after a game that offer healthy choices.

“Parents can help the children be successful by getting trigger or comfort foods out of the house and filling the cabinets with healthy foods and snacks that are ready to eat.”

Parents can help the children be successful by getting trigger or comfort foods out of the house and filling the cabinets with healthy foods and snacks that are ready to eat. “This does not mean that children should be deprived of foods they like,” Mangieri explains.

“If they really want ice cream, drive to the store and buy a small cone. Feed the craving

4. Make it a family affair. If a child

without overindulging.”

needs to lose weight, it is not just the child’s concern—it is the family’s concern as well.

6. Power down during mealtimes.

When one child is struggling with weight, sin-

Eating well includes paying attention to what

gling him or her out as having a problem can

you are eating, not your electronics. When

leave them feeling isolated and be detrimental

young athletes are engaged in texting conver-

to self-esteem. Mangieri recommends keeping

sations or watching videos during mealtime, it

the situation positive and focusing on how the

can lead to overeating. It is hard for them to

family can eat better together. Family mem-

pay attention to hunger and satiety cues when

bers should work together to eat healthier

they are engaged with an electronic device.

and become more physically active.

Mangieri recommends that families power down the devices, turn off the television, and

5. Create a healthy environment.

focus on fueling their bodies properly.

Mangieri points out the obvious: you can’t eat what is not in the house. If children or teen-

For more information on Fueling Young Athletes

agers come home from school or practice

visit HumanKinetics.com.

January/February 2018

suburban family | subfam.com

active kids 25

s Fun at…

Outrageou

Fit & Fun Activities Camp Anokijig

iends New Fr lues Va e Positiv Growth l a n so s!

Per enture v d A Great

g Nurturin nce, e d n e p e d In r and Characte ce in n e d fi n o C d! your chil

• Overnight Camp • Boys and Girls, ages 7-16 • Traditional & Specialty Activities, plus HORSES, Teen Programs, Adventure Trips • Sessions from 4 days to 1 or more weeks

- PLYMOUTH, WI -

920-893-0782 ANOKIJIG.COM

Outrageous fun is around every corner at Camp Anokijig! For 92 years, we have nurtured independence, character, and confidence in our campers as they build positive values, friendships, and life skills through their experiences. We offer a huge variety of activities for campers to self-direct their own camp experience, build self-esteem, and create an enriching week of summer camp.

Convenient, 1-week sessions offer valuable flexibility to accommodate busy family schedules. Be part of the family and catch the Anokijig spirit! For more information: www. anokijig.com or 920-893-0782 (ACA Accredited).

InZone

InZone, Harper College’s enrichment and sports camp for ages 8 to 14, fills your summer with fun and learning. Kids can expand their art creativity, develop outdoor education skills, create their own video games or become the master of STEM challenges, all while making new friends.Visit harpercollegece.com/inzone to learn more about InZone, request a catalog, and schedule your summer fun. Harper College CE, 1200 West Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL 60067. inzone@harpercollege.edu 847.925.6300 [See our ad on Page 5.]

Animal Camp Jamaica

Travel abroad with Animal Camp Jamaica Ages 13-18. This 13 day program focuses on Marine Biology and Cultutral Immersion.

Spend mornings snorkeling and afternoons exploring the island of Jamaica swimming with dolphins, trying exotic foods, and jumping from waterfalls! Campers stay at Seven Palms Villa in Runaway Bay, Jamaica. www.AnimalCampJamaica.com For more info call (573) 458-2125.

26 active kids

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January/February 2018

Great Lakes Center Youth Volleyball Academy

The GLCYA is accepting girls and boys ages 2-14 for the Great Lakes Center Youth Volleyball Academy Fall, Club, Winter and Spring programs. All sessions focus on motor development and individual skill development by teaching both proper skill technique and introducing the young athlete to age appropriate game play as well for volleyball. We are also offering winter/spring clinics and lessons for all ages. The Great Lakes Volleyball Center is located at 579 N. Oakhurst Drive, Aurora, IL. 60502. For more info call 630-898-6400 or visit www.greatlakescenter.com FB: Great Lakes Center Youth Academy

2018 Great Lakes Center and Sports Performance Volleyball Great Lakes Center Youth Volleyball Academy ★Vtikes and Vtots - girls and boys age 2 – 2nd grade ★Level 1 - girls and boys 3rd–4th grade ★Level 2 - girls 5th–6th grade ★Level 3 - girls 7th–8th grade The GLCYA is a program offered at a low cost with short

Illinois Stampede B-Ball

The Illinois Stampede youth basketball program will be hosting tryouts for players for our 2018 spring/Summer season. Illinois Stampede program is centered on the concept of teaching fundamental skills and developing the complete player for boys 3rd-11th and girls 5th-10th grade. Selected players for our teams will compete in highly competitive leagues and tournament play throughout the chicagoland area. Pre-Register online starting in January and tryouts are Free! all Players will be selected for teams based on skill level. For registration details please visit us at www.illinoisstampede.org or call 630-442-0075.

Cub Creek Science Camp

For ages 7-17. Imagine a summer camp where you can eat breakfast next to a colony of lemurs, zoom down a zip-line and pet a camel before lunch, and play a camp wide game of Capture the Flag after dinner! We are that camp! With 300 animals including porcupines, foxes, parrots, lizards, miniature horses, a 6-element ropes course, and classes in chemistry, pottery, culinary, animal care, and many more, we are a truly unique summer camp experience! A/C cabins. ACA accredited. www.MOScienceCamp.com (573) 458-2125.

January/February 2018

seasons available and a great opportunity to learn the sport of volleyball through movement, skill development and FUN! For more information please go to www.greatlakescenter.com and click on Youth Academy 579 N. Oakhurst Drive • Aurora • 630-898-6400 • Register Today at www.greatlakescenter.com

ILLINOIS STAMPEDE

YOUTH TRAVEL BASKETBALL The Illinois Stampede youth basketball program will be hosting tryouts for players for our 2018 spring/Summer season. Illinois Stampede program is centered on the concept of teaching fundamental skills and developing the complete player for boys 3rd-11th and girls 5th-10th grade.

Selected players for our teams will compete in highly competitive leagues and tournament play throughout the chicagoland area.

Pre-Register online starting in January.

Tryouts are Free! All players will be selected for teams based on skill level.

facebook.com/Illinois.Stampede

instagram.com/illinoisstampede

twitter.com/stampedehoops

For upcoming registration details please visit us at www.illinoisstampede.org or call us at 630-442-0075 suburban family | subfam.com

active kids 27

education central

M

usic plays a significant role in nearly everyone’s life, but for some people it represents much more than an invitation to dance or a soundtrack for the morning commute.

Researchers have found that music therapy provides a diversion from negative feelings and helps manage the pain of not only adults, but of children with developmental, physical, behavioral, and neurological disabilities.

It also increases range of motion and motor skills, and in some cases is a replacement for medication. In short, its therapeutic uses are many.

“Music is invaluable to people with special needs, allowing them to express themselves non-verbally,” says Travis Perry, a music teacher for more than 35 years and inventor of ChordBuddy (www.chordbuddy.com), a device that makes guitar-learning easier for anyone – including those with disabilities.

“Veterans can use music to help cope with PTSD as well as other physical injuries. Senior citizens can learn to play the guitar, which helps build hand strength.”

One recent study showed that music therapy can even help children cope with routine immunizations, making them less stressed – and their parents less stressed as well.

While music therapy is known to be fruitful for the person needing therapy, the results also can be a gratifying for the teacher. Perry says he’s found it especially satisfying to teach the guitar to autistic children, who can be challenging but ultimately rewarding pupils.

In fact, a small number of people with autism are musical savants, according to the American Music Therapy Association, but all benefit from music therapy interventions to enhance their social, communicative and motor skills, among other needs.

Generally, children with autism aren’t able to make what would be considered a pleasing sound on the guitar without some assistance.

Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley Expanding Autism Services Leading research indicates that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) can make significant progress through therapy and early intervention is important to gaining greater independence.

To help, Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley’s services for children with ASD include occupational therapy, physical therapy, and family support. New this year, the expanded program includes the expertise of a behavior consultant who will focus on behavior issues and family goals. Call 630.620.4433. Visit eastersealsdfvr.org/AutismServices for more information.

28 education central

Perry uses his invention to help them. Instead of positioning their hand into the correct chord positions – often tricky for even ablebodied learners – they can just press a tab that results in a clear, strong chord sound.

Perry, who has appeared on the popular TV show Shark Tank, didn’t actually have music therapy or people with special needs in mind when he invented ChordBuddy. He was trying to help his daughter learn to play and her frustration became his inspiration.

“When learning an instrument, it’s important to have success right away, and that can be difficult to do with the guitar,” Perry says.

“Most people give up within the first couple of months and the guitar ends up in a closet.

That’s why I’m so excited when I know I’ve been able to help a special-needs child, a veteran with PTSD or a senior citizen with arthritis make music.

“You realize the odds they’ve had to overcome, both with the usual hurdles to learning and their personal difficulties, and that’s very fulfilling to me.”

Creative Corners Preschool at the Des Plaines Park District Creative Corners Preschool provides every student with a quality early childhood experience by creating an atmosphere where they can grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually through an engaging and explorative curriculum. The Illinois Early Learning & Development Standards are used in the teaching of academic skills to build a strong foundation, achieve benchmarks, and assure school-readiness. Creative Corners offers families a variety of programs for children ages 2–5, with flexible schedules to meet all needs. Contact: Jeanette Berard, Recreation Supervisor Jeanette.Berard@DPParks.org 2222 Birch Street, Des Plaines, IL 60018. 847-391-5700 DPParks.org

suburban family | subfam.com

January/February 2018

fitness first

I

Y o g a

f you think yoga is about flexibility, challenging poses, and a Zen attitude, you’ve got part of it.Yoga has physical and emotional benefits for people of all ages including children.

“Getting kids involved in yoga and meditation is a life-long win for them. Both yoga and meditation teach kids the benefits of fitness, but they are also valuable coping skills that kids can key into during life’s challenges,” says yoga teacher Kerin Monaco.

Find Serenity, Strength, and SelfConfidence

Monaco started practicing yoga herself in high school to combat crippling anxiety that cropped up around SATs and college applications. She went on to teach yoga and recently began to 30 fitness first

for Kids and Families

By Sara Barry

share yoga with her young family. When her daughter was 9 months old, Monaco started to practice with her on the mat, where they both loved the peaceful energy that yoga brings.

That peaceful energy is one of the key reasons adults practice yoga, and that calm is great for kids too. That’s not the only benefit though. Yoga teacher Katy Dagle, says that for younger kids, yoga builds coordination, balance, and self-regulation. For older kids, yoga continues to help with coordination and balance and also helps build flexibility, strength, and self-confidence. The emotional benefits can be especially helpful in the challenging tween and teen years.

In addition to these physical and emotional benefits, yoga can help develop values, such as honesty and nonviolence. These values are an integral part of yoga that is often overlooked, but they can be an added benefit to families practicing together.

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Get Kids Started with Classes

Both Monaco and Dagle recommend classes for kids. An experienced teacher helps children learn poses correctly and can offer modifications or adjustments to things that don’t feel right. Kids (and grown-ups) should be reminded to do what feels right for their body. Not every child can do every pose, and some days a familiar pose is harder than others.

Yoga is noncompetitive. Teachers should help kids focus on their own practice every day and create a supportive environment. As Dagle reminds her students, “yoga is a practice not a perfect.”

To find kids classes, check with local yoga studios, gyms, or YMCAs. Monaco took her daughter to My Gym, a franchise that caters to fitness for children 10 and under. Dagle’s studio offers classes for kids of different ages. Other options include Mommy and Me classes if you have a baby, and adult classes for January/February 2018

tweens and teens. (Some studios have an age restriction, so it’s good to check first.)

ing your environment. There are lots of ways to practice this with kids—you don’t even have to call it mindfulness.

• Sit quietly together or go for a walk, and see what you notice. Try closing your eyes. What sounds and smells do you sense?

Once familiar with yoga, kids can use videos and yoga cards to practice at home. See the sidebar, “Yoga Tips and Tools for the Whole Family,” for tips on starting a family practice.

• Turn off your phone and spend some time doing an activity with your kids, whether it’s reading, coloring, dancing, snuggling, building.

Just focus on what you’re doing, with no distractions.

• Describe something familiar as if it were new. In an exercise from Planting Seeds: Practicing Mindfulness with Children by Thich Nhat Hanh, kids pretend they are Martians seeing something from Earth for the first time. Hand your kids a familiar object (the book uses raisins, but you can use any simple object or food kids “see” every day). Remind them that they have never seen it before. Ask them to look, touch, smell, listen, and taste and describe their experience.

Practice Anywhere

Classes provide a safe introduction to yoga and ongoing support, but the beauty of yoga is that you can practice any place and any time.

Here are two practices you can do anywhere: Breathe: Breathing can be centering, energizing, or calming. For parents, try breathing deeply while holding an upset child. Monaco says “When my daughter is fussy, deep breathing with her in my arms works every time.” Dagle uses “flower breathing” with her toddler: sniff a flower, let it go with a sigh, to help diffuse big emotions.

Dagle teaches older kids to use breathing exercises to calm themselves before a test. She encourages them to put their feet firmly on the ground at their desk, inhale for a count of four, and exhale for a count of six for one minute to to help them feel both calm and grounded.

Be present: Practice mindfulness and being present. That means notic-

Sign up for an endurance race. Take on a new challenge, support a good cause or run/walk/roll for the health of it. Be certain to select an event within your range of conditioning and consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.

Check every issue of Suburban Family for updates.

The 2018 Annual Race Guide will be featured in the March/April issue.

Promote your annual event with a display ad program.

Call 630-863-7183 to reserve your ad space now.

Deadline: Feb.12

JANUARY

Yoga builds strength and flexibility, self-confidence and focus. Kids get comfortable in and connected to their own bodies and minds, and learn practices that they use for the rest of their lives. What’s not to say Yes to?

Chicago Polar Dash – Sat. 1/6. Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 1800M at 7:00 AM. USATF Certified. Arvey Field in Grant Park, Chicago. polardashchicago.com.

Frosty 5K /1 Mile Walk – Sat. 1/13 at 9 AM. New Castle Rec Center, Burbank. 708-599-2070.

Frozen Gnome 10K/50K – 1/13 at 7:45 AM. Veteran Acres and Sterne’s Woods, Crystal Lake. runfrozengnome.com.

Fox Valley Winter Challenge Trail Series – 1/20 at 10 AM. 5K trail run. Hickory Knolls Nature Area, St. Charles. Run2succeed@gmail.com.

F^3 Lake Half Marathon – Sat. 1/20 at 8 AM. Half marathon and 5K. USATF Certified. Chicago. f3running.com.

Tour de Trails – Sat. 1/20 at 11 AM. 6 mile run. Atwood Park, Rockford. runsignup.com.

Aon Step Up For Kids – Sun. 1/28 at 8 AM. Various step climbing categories. Benefits Lurie Children’s Hospital.

Foundation.luriechildrens.org.

Relay For Life – For all area events, please go to relayforlife.org/relay/findevent.

Commitment Day – Mon 1/1 at 10 AM. Join the movement for fitness. Life Time Fitness, Bloomingdale. 630582-4100. Also in Orland Park and Romeoville.

New Year’s Day 5K Run/Walk – Mon 1/1 at 11 AM. Lincoln Park, Chicago. evenbrite.com.

January/February 2018

suburban family | subfam.com

FEBRUARY

Relay For Life – For all area events, please go to relayforlife.org/relay/findevent.

Super Shuffle 5K – Sun 2/4 at 10 AM 5K Run/Walk.

Geneva. 630-232-4542.

Cupid’s Undie Run – Sat. 2/10. at 2 PM. 1 mile fun run. A “brief” run in your undies or costume, benefits Neurofibromatosis. Chicago. cupids.org.

Fight For Air Climb – Sat. 2/19 at 7 AM. 31 floors, 681 steps. Oakbrook Terrace Tower, Oakbrook Terrace. American Lung Association. 630-940-7007.

NorthShore Cupid’s Love Dash 5K – Sun. 2/11 at 8:15 AM. 5K Run/Walk. Highland Park, IL. 312-607-6668.

TheraCORE Indoor Triathalon – Sun 2/11 at 7 AM. Five Seasons Family Sports Club, Burr Ridge. eventbrite.com.

Fox Valley Winter Challenge Trail Series – Sat. 2/17 at 10 AM. 8K trail run. Hickory Knolls Nature Area, St. Charles. Run2succeed@gmail.com.

Tour de Trails – Sat. 2/17 at 11 AM. 6 mile run. Atwood Park, Rockford, IL. runsignup.com.

ET Indoor Triathlon – Sun. 2/25 at 7 AM. 10 min swim, 30 min. bike, 20 min. run. Lisle. 630-430-9006.

Frosty Footrace 5K – Sun. 2/25 at 11 AM. 5K Run/ Walk. Round Lake. 847-456-8558. fitness first 31

family wellness

Fight Oxidative Stress (the Root Cause of All Disease)

T

here’s a lot of anxiety surrounding disease nowadays, as people seem to be getting sick left and right, and it’s not clear why. Most of us know at least one person who has suffered a heart attack or courageously battled breast cancer or faced down some other formidable illness like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. While many of us stress and worry about falling victim to a deadly health crisis, we feel largely powerless to protect ourselves from such a scary fate. But according to Thomas E. Levy, MD, JD, disease is far less random than we’d like to believe—and there’s plenty we can do to prevent it. He says all disease comes down to a single factor: too much oxidative stress in your body.

“Oxidation is a normal component of the body’s healthy metabolic activity,” says Dr. Levy, a board-certified cardiologist, lawyer, and author of ‘Hidden Epidemic: Silent Oral Infections Cause Most Heart Attacks and Breast Cancers .’

“But thanks to our highly toxic lifestyles, a state of highly increased oxidative stress (IOS)

is becoming the norm. This is the source of all disease. Anyone who wishes to stay healthy should identify and eliminate all ongoing new sources of oxidative stress on a daily basis.”

Surprisingly, the biggest source of IOS is the toxins caused by hidden dental infections, particularly infected teeth, infected gums, and

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32 family wellness

suburban family | subfam.com

infected tonsils. In fact, studies show that root canal-treated teeth and chronically infected gums cause at least 90 percent of heart attacks and 70 percent of breast cancers. Treating these kinds of infections in the mouth is a vital step in decreasing your toxic load (and thus decreasing IOS). But according to Dr. Levy, there are also lots of other ways to suppress the influx of toxins present in the body.

“If you can better manage your toxic load and prevent new toxins from wreaking havoc in your body, you greatly decrease your risk of disease...all disease,” says Dr. Levy.

Identify and eliminate chronic infections (usually in the mouth!). Infections of the teeth are a significant source of pathogen-related toxins, says Levy. These infections are asymptomatic and often not seen on a standard x-ray. However, they can be seen by using 3D x-ray imaging. He advises having a baseline physical evaluation and 3D x-ray of the mouth. Over time you can use this baseline result to indicate the presence of new infections in the roots of the teeth.

Measure your C-reactive protein (CRP) level.

January/February 2018

“C-reactive protein is a protein in the plasma that indicates the level of inflammation in your body,” says Dr. Levy. “Though normal range for this test is usually 0-3, your CRP should ideally be well below 1. Anything higher is an indication of increased oxidative stress.”

Balance your hormones. Low estrogen levels in women, low testosterone levels in men, and low thyroid hormones in both men and women all result in an increase in oxidative stress. And when oxidative stress is increased throughout the body, any focal infections present in the teeth and gums are more likely to become metastatic. Therefore, it’s important to keep these hormone levels well within the normal range at all times.

“Normal thyroid function is particularly important in preventing infected teeth and gums from producing increased oxidative stress throughout the body,” says Dr. Levy. “Traditional thyroid testing reliably diagnoses only extreme thyroid problems and misses more subtle forms of dysfunction. Patients should request T3 and reverse T3 tests to correctly analyze their thyroid health. Many people need to supplement with T3 as well as desiccated thyroid to restore function.”

Assimilate micronutrients by consuming blended smoothies. The standard American diet consists of highly processed foods that lack beneficial micronutrients. Further,

thanks to compromised gut health, many people fail to fully digest their food, which then putrefies and creates a host of toxins and toxic metabolic byproducts. To combat poor digestion and get the most nutrition from your food, Dr. Levy recommends pulverizing a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably organic, into a nutrient-rich smoothie on a daily basis. This ensures that you take in as many micronutrients as possible, which defends against IOS. Stay away from calcium supplements. “Despite its popularity for treating osteoporosis, calcium supplementation is simply never good for you and should be avoided,” says Dr. Levy. “When your vitamin D level is properly adjusted, you get all the calcium you need through your diet.”

Avoid iron and copper as well. In addition to calcium, iron and copper are toxic nutrients.

They are essential for life in a limited dosage, but become progressively toxic in larger doses. Dr. Levy says that you should never take an iron supplement unless you have an iron deficiency anemia. Additionally, you should never eat foods that have been fortified with these nutrients. (Read your food labels; many processed foods contain added iron!)

Use caution with fat-soluble vitamins. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which demonstrate little to no toxicity in any dose, vitamins A, D,

and E can eventually be pushed to toxic levels as they become increasingly concentrated in the liver and fatty tissues of the body. Dr. Levy recommends exerting some caution when supplementing with high doses of them. Vitamin D supplementation requires some blood testing to make sure the dosing is correct. (He does, however, point out that vitamin K is the one fat-soluble vitamin that has no toxicity.)

“Sweat out” your toxins in a far-infrared sauna. “Sweating is a much too little recognized way to safely detox your body,” says Dr. Levy. “Many chelating drugs pull toxins from your tissues but don’t fully remove them from your body. This can cause a new toxic effect from the toxins as those toxins mobilize and travel to new tissues. But sweating gives you an enormous detox with little acute toxicity in the process.”

Dr. Levy says a far-infrared sauna is superior for removing toxins because of the way the sauna heats the body. However, he adds that aerobic exercise—and sweating caused by aerobic exercise—is also an excellent way to detoxify.

“Chronically increased oxidative stress can be bad news if left unchecked,” concludes Dr. Levy.“But luckily there are lots of great ways to combat it. In a few simple steps, you can lower your toxic load, stop oxidative stress that might otherwise become deadly, and remove yourself from the danger zone of disease.”

At Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, our mission is simple: deliver world-class care to children who need it most – regardless of their ability to pay.

For over 90 years, thousands of families with children in need of orthopaedic care, specialized plastic surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, physical rehabilitation, and spinal cord injury care have come through our doors with hopes of finding the very best pediatric specialty care.

Under our roof, those hopes are answered every day — by physicians, nurses, and specialists using the latest technology, innovative research, and a collaborative, family-centered approach. It’s how the 22 Shriners Hospital locations have provided care for over 1.3 million children.

Do You Know a Child For a consultation, or to refer a patient, call: Who Needs Expert Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago Specialty Care? 773-385-KIDS (5437) 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707

facebook.com/shrinerschicago January/February 2018

twitter.com/shrinerschicago suburban family | subfam.com

shrinerschicago.org family wellness 33

great events

Robert R. McCormick House, Cantigny Park, Wheaton Here’s your source for current and upcoming great events. Event information is subject to change without notice, therefore, we encourage you to call ahead and confirm – and be certain to tell ‘em you saw it in Suburban Family Magazine!

If you have an event of regional interest, we’d love to hear from you. Send to “Great Events” Fax: 866-779-4320, E-mail: mail@ subfam.com Mail: P.O. Box 1266, Westmont, IL 60559. Deadline for inclusion in the March/April issue is Friday, February 9th.

JANUARY MONDAY, JANUARY 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

FAMILY Winter Reading Challenge – Through January. Read books and complete activities – earn a badge for signing up, and one for each completed activity.

Child and adult categories. Schaumburg Library, Schaumburg. Register 847-923-3120.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3 ADULTS Get Fit With Technology – Learn more about technologies that will help you stay on track throughout the year. 2 PM. Registration required and open to library cardholders. Helen Plum Library, Lombard.

Register 630-627-0316.

FAMILY Arbor Reading Adventures – Listen to a story, make a craft, go on an adventure walk. Ages 2-6 with and adult. 11-11:45 AM. Sterling Morton Library, Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-968-0074.

34 great events

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4 FAMILY Pop-Up Adventure Playground – Drop in for a morning of free play, stocked with loose parts like cardboard boxes, paper, tape and more! Children with participating adult. 10-11:30 AM. 630-627-0316. helenplum. org.

KIDS Your Favorite Book Club – Bring a favorite, recently-read book to discuss, and enjoy snacks (please note any allergies when you signing up. Grades 4-8. 3 PM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. Register 630-627-0316. helenplum.org.

KIDS Open Sew – Use the library’s sewing and embroidery machines to work on projects or practice your sewing skills. Space and supplies are limited. Grades 3 and up. 5:30-7:30 PM. Skokie Public Library. 847-673-7774.

KIDS Snug As A Bug Storytime – Wear jammies and get cozy with stories such as The Mitten by Jan Brett.

Make your own no-tie pillow to take home. Grades 1-3. 11 AM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 FAMILY Create A Robot – “Family-Bots” lets you work in a small group to build and program a LEGO WeDo robot. Ages 8 and younger with caregiver. Limited to 6 KIDS Make It: Toys for Furry Friends – Make pet families. 3-4:40 PM. Brookfield Public Library. Register toys that will be donated to local animal shelter, earn serx 140.Page 1 vice hours.

Gradessmall 6-12. 7 PM. Helen Plum Library, SUBFAM FILL 12.17:Layout 1 Lom12/15/17708-485-6917 11:35 AM bard. Register 630-627-0316.

FAMILY Special Needs Playgroup – Children can practice their social, communication and participation skills through interactive play and activities. Attendance limited to 10 children plus their caregivers. Siblings are welcome. 11:30 AM-12:30 PM. Brookfield Public Library.

Register 708-485-6917 x 140.

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YOUR WEEKEND+ at subfam.com

...Your complete weekly newsletter for “family friendly” things to do around Chicago!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 FAMILY Brown Bag Movies – Bring your lunch and watch a popular movie. All ages with caregiver.

12-1:30 PM. Brookfield Public Library. Register 708485-6917 x 140. suburban family | subfam.com

FAMILY 40 Item Scavenger Hunt – A weekendlong scavenger hunt to discover facts, special spots and information about our year-long 40th birthday bash.

Pick up your family passport to learn all the ways we’ll be celebrating. Ages 2 and up. 10AM-2 PM. Fox Valley Park District, Red Oak Nature Center, Batavia. 630-897-1808.

WEDDING Showcase – Opportunities for one-onone consultations with over 50 vendors for brides and grooms. Photographers, florists, ministers, musicians, bakers, caterers and DJs. 10 AM-3PM. Naper Settlement January/February 2018

Pre-Emption House, Naper Settlement, Naperville. napersettlement.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 KIDS BYB Club – BYB Club welcomes you to bring your book (or two!) that you have read and enjoyed recently, then discuss books and do #3wordbooktalks for our titles. Receive great book suggestions and snacks are provided. Grades 6-12. 3 PM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. 630-627-0316.

PETS Low Cost Pet Vaccines – Spay Illinois hosts this pet walk-in clinic for dogs and cats. A variety of vaccines can be purchased including rabies and distemper.

12-3PM. Barking Lot, Wheaton. 630-961-8000.

MONDAY, JANUARY 8 ADULTS Health and Wellness Dinner – Join us for our Wellness Dinner at Greek Islands Restaurant in Lombard. Bring your partner, co-workers or a table of friends and enjoy a savory chicken dinner and enjoy a presentation from a doctor that will blow your socks off!

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM. Lombard. FREE. Register. westsuburbanwellness.com PARENTS Baby and Me – Networking for parents and all those caring for of babies up to 12 months. A nurse representative will be on hand to answer questions and facilitate discussions. Not suitable for children over 12 months. 9:30-11 AM. Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview.

847-832-6600.

EXHIBIT How The Light Gets In – Cheryl Lundin’s drawings and paintings are inspired by the poetics of space, the metaphoric potential of the window and the fleeting temporal nature of light and color. 9 AM. Wheaton College. 630-752-5000.

KIDS Rubber Band Racers – Build and customize a rubber band racecar. Discover what will make your car go faster, what weighs it down, and then race against your friends. Grade 6-8. 4 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

PRETEENS Wellness Wednesday – Learn how to take care of your emotional and physical well-being through an activity and discussion. Drop-in, grades 6-8.

4-5 PM. Skokie Public Library. 847-673-7774.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 FAMILY Winter Fest – Enjoy snowshoe walks through the prairie, horse-drawn wagon rides, winter snacks, crafts and activities inside the Nature Center, marshmallows roasted on a winter bonfire and a visit by a live wolf and coyote. All ages. 12 PM-3PM. Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, Schaumburg. 847-985-2100.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 11 ADULTS LinkedIn Photoshoot – Schedule your free LinkedIn portrait and learn about the many library resources available to help you find your next job, plan your career path and learn new skills that will improve the desirability of your résumé. 7 PM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. 630-627-0316.

EXHIBIT Smithsonian Gems – American and phenomenal gemstones are featured in this exclusive exhibit from the gem vaults of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. 10 AM-5 PM. Lizadro Museum of Lapidary Art, Elmhurst. 630-8331616.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12 FAMILY Fun Night Karaoke – Be a star on our stage singing your favorite song! Food and beverage available for purchase. 6:30-9 PM. Rock House, Wilmette, IL. 847-256-7625.

FAMILY Trees in Winter – Nature Discovery Days allows adults and children to explore nature topics together with hands-on activities, games, crafts experiments and nature books. 10:30-2:30 PM. Naperville Park District Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville. 630-848-5000.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 CONCERT MLK Tribute – Chicago Sinfonietta presents the Chicago Premiere of Emmy Award-winning composer Laura Karpman’s three-time Grammy nominated masterpiece, “Ask Your Mama” for its 30th anniversary MLK Tribute concert. 3 PM. Pfeiffer Concert Hall, North Central College. Tickets 312-284-1554.

MONDAY, JANUARY 15 FAMILY Science in the Snow – Can a bubble shatter like glass? Can you make a snowflake? Experiment

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 ADULTS Trace Your Family Tree – Drop in to this genealogy workshop and investigate your family history using library resources. A genealogist from the Anan Harmon Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will be on hand to answer your questions. 7 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

ADULTS Daughterhood Circle- Support for Caregivers – Small groups who get together regularly to hang out, relax, and help each other navigate caring for their aging parents. Loving daughters of members at The Birches are starting this circle of support for the greater community, and those who are interested in developing this circle of support are welcomed to join us! 7 PM – 8 PM. The Birches. Hinsdale. 630-789-1135.

SENIORS Health Insurance Counseling – Get help with Medicare or Medicare Supplements and free, one-on-one Medicare counseling from a Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Counselor provided by the Illinois Department on Aging. 9 AM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. Schedule a 30-minute session (630) 469-2300 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10 ART DEMO Oil and Cold Wax Technique – Meet a local artist whose passion for teaching will allow you to follow her instruction and take home a small medium. Pigment powders, oil bars and pastels will also be covered. 7-9 PM. Bloomingdale Park District Museum. 630-329-4598.

January/February 2018

suburban family | subfam.com

great events 35

City Events Progressive Chicago Boat, RV & Sail Show – January 10-14. See hundreds of boats, hightech RVs and paddle board at the largest indoor boat show. McCormick Place, Chicago.

Neighborhoods of the World – February-March. Celebrate cultures form across the world with exhibits, art shows, cuisine tastings and live music. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

with snow, ice and the winter cold. Wear warm, waterproof outdoor clothing and boots for exploring outside.

Ages 6-10. 9-11 AM. Heller Nature Center, Highland Park.

847-433-6901.

FAMILY Winter Wonderfest – Family fun activities for all ages include arts and crafts, winter-themed games, face painting and more. And if it snows, we also will build snowmen and paint designs in the snow. 1 – 4 PM. Chevy Chase Country Club. Wheeling Park District. 847-465-3333.

KIDS Laser Comedy Show – Enjoy an interactive live comic book drawn with laser reactive technology and voice acted by performance artist Chris Fair, a graduate of Chicago’s Second City. Grade 6-8. 1 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

MOVIE Sing – Enjoy the day off from school with a morning movie. Popcorn and drinks available for purchase. 10AM -12 PM. Matz Hall Theater, Winnetka Community House. 847-446-0537.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 ADULTS Fundraiser – Gala event includes silent auction items, mystery wine, live piano entertainment. Dinner, sweets and game. Benefits Lazarus House transitional living for men, women and children in the far west suburbs. 6 PM. St. Charles Country Club, St. Charles. Lazarushouse.net.

ADULTS Vietnamese Tea and Coffee – Part of the “Tea and Coffee Ceremonies: Around The World in 80 Cups.” Learn about Vietnamese culture while enjoying tea and coffee from the Tea Aficianado Club. Min. 6 attendees necessary to hold event. 7-8 PM. Wheaton, IL. 36 great events

Strandbeest: The Dream Machines of Theo Jansen – February 5-May 1. See eight gigantic, kinetic, wind-power sculptures by Dutch artist and physicist Theo Jansen. Chicago Culture Center, Chicago. cityofchicago.org.

Chicago Botanic Orchid Show – February 10-March 25. 10,000 orchids in bloom with floral classes, special times for photography opportunities, marketplace and brunch among the blooms. Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe. chicagobotanic.org.

Polar Adventure Days – January 20 and February 24. Engage in winter activities, see live animals and create natureinspired crafts. Dress for the weather as events take place both outdoors and inside the visitor center. Northerly Island, Chicago. chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade – February 25. Celebrate the Year of the Rooster at the area’s annual parade featuring a marching band, traditional drag-

Register 630-702-9461.

ADULTS Music Recital – Wheaton College Conservatory of Music faculty presents a recital featuring violin music. 7:30-9:30 PM. Wheaton College. 630-752-5099.

FAMILY Things That Go – Zoom over for some Kid Rock fun tailored to the transportation theme. Musical activities, imaginative play, colorful rhythm instruments.

Ages 1-5 with adult. 10-10:45 AM. Cantigny Education Center, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. Register 630.260.8162. www.cantigny.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 ADULTS Small Business Seminar: The M Generation – For the first time in history, organizations employ members of up to five different generations. Learn about the millennial generation, employee characteristics, and how to navigate generational gaps for a more productive work environment. Free tickets are required for this event.

Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 FAMILY Robin’s Dog Stars – Meet Amazing Gracie, a brilliant black lab and Incredible Cedar, a beautiful border collie, tell jokes, do magic and perform 50 dog tricks.

Learn how intelligent and helpful dogs are. All ages. 7 PM. Helen Plum cardholders pick up tickets at Youth Services desk. 630-627-0316. helenplum.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 FUNDRAISER Cash For Kids – Family-friendly concert and festival features Johnny Cash hits and proceeds benefit Gompers Park Athletic Association baseball and softball programs. 6 PM. Irish American Heritage Center, Chicago. 773-282-7035. suburban family | subfam.com

on, lion dances and decorative floats. Chicago. Chinatown.org/events.

Handmade Market Chicago – Through March 10. Connects makers of beautiful things to those who appreciate the unique and handmade. Shop jewelry, clothing, handbags and paper crafts at this monthly fair in Ukrainian Village. The Empty Bottle, Chicago. handmadechicago.com.

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon – Through March. Among the “alpine in a city,” lace up your skates and enjoy an ice skating experience unlike any other on a path of ice winding through the rolling landscape. Chicago. 312-744-3316. maggiedaleypark.com. chicagoboatshow.com.

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink – Through March. Lessons and special programming weekends and during the Chicago Public Schools’ winter break. Skate rentals available. Chicago. 312-744-3316. millenniumpark.org.

FAMILY Tolkien’s Beginnings – Explore J.R.R. Tolkien and his lesser-known works from his childhood years, through World War I, and up to the publication of his classic children’s book The Hobbit in 1937. Join staff for your own Tolkien-themed activities including coloring, cartoons, scavenger hunt, and craft during the presentation. All ages. 1 PM. DuPage County Historical Museum, Wheaton, IL. Register 630-510-4941.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 KIDS Minecraft Selfies – Learn how to make Minecraft-themed portraits. Simulate pixels using scissors, paper, and glue to create your unique look. Grades 2-5. 4 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-4690879.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23 ADULTS Hygge Cocktail at Maize+Mash – Sharpen your basic mixology skills in downtown Glen Ellyn, mixing hygge-themed cocktails. Event includes tasting menu that will complement 4 (4 oz.) cocktails. Must be 21 or older to attend. 6:30 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library.

Register 630-469-0879.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 24 FAMILY Basketball – Catch Aurora University Women’s Basketball. Purchase tickets to the home game or watch via live streaming video. Athletics.aurora.edu.

630-844-5110.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 FAMILY Raspberry PI – Learn about Raspberry Pi, a computer the size of a credit card, and how to use it to build a retro game console. Invite your friends and family and register together. Bring your console controller. Keep the Raspberry Pi to continue programming at home. 7 PM. January/February 2018

Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 FAMILY Princess Party – Come dressed as your favorite Princess, decorate your own crown and show off your best moves dancing. All princesses must pre-register & accompanied by an Adult. Darien Park District Community Center, 7301 Fairview Ave. 630-968-6400.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 FAMILY Snow Race – Conquer the 4-6 mile course made up of 20 plus obstacles at The Mountain Top ski hill. Kids age 4 -11 can take on the lil-yeti course made up of eight lil-yeti sized obstacles. Lodge welcomes racers with craft brews, fire pit, food, music, and pictures with The Yeti. Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, Lake Geneva, WI. 800-345-1020. Register abominablesnowrace.com.

FAMILY Trees in Winter – Nature Discovery Days allows adults and children to explore nature topics together with hands-on activities, games, crafts experiments and nature books. 10:30 AM -2:30 PM. Naperville Park District Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville.

630-848-5000.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 FAMILY Mother Son Dodgeball Tournament – Hit the court for a unique bonding experience with a fun afternoon of dodgeball in this tournament-style event.

Ages 8 and up. 1-4 PM. Fox Valley Park District, Prisco Community Center, Aurora. 630-859-8606.

January/February 2018

FEBRUARY THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 AUDITIONS Children – Auditions for the Lion King summer workshop open today. Little Mountain Theatre, Lemont, IL. info@littlemountaintheatre.org.

ADULTS Understanding Fake News – Fiction and nonfiction are not just library sections. People get constantly bombarded with unreliable information from untrustworthy sources. Learn to weed through the noise and evaluate sources for authenticity. 7 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. 630-469-0879.

KIDS Filters in Full Effect – Come and make your selfies into an Instant masterpiece. We’ll talk phone photography, composition, and print photos. All supplies provided. Grades 6-8. 4:30-5:30 PM. Wauconda Area Library.

Register 847-526-6225.

KIDS Little Olympians – Recommended for children 5 and under, with a participating adult. Race through obstacles! Test your agility! See if you have what it takes to be a little Olympian. Helen Plum Library. 630-627-0316.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 ADULTS Chocolate, Cheese and Wine – Evening of chocolates, cheeses and a selection of over 35 wines from around the world for wine tastings. Portion of proceeds benefits the Glen Ellyn Park District Scholarship Program. 5PM-8PM. Reserve 22 at Village Links. Glen Ellyn

suburban family | subfam.com

Park District. Tickets glenellynchamber.com/chocolate.

ADULTS Microsoft Windows 10 – Ready to upgrade your Windows operating system but want to know more before diving in. Learn the newest features and outline key differences between Windows 7, 8 and 10. 3 PM. Helen Plum Library. Register 630-627-0316.

ADULTS Casino Royale – Join the Bartlett Area Chamber for a fun night out with friends and family. $35 advance admission includes 75 betting chips, appetizers, and one raffle entry. $40 at the door. 7 – 10 PM. Open to the public. Moretti’s Ristorante. 1175 W. Lake St. Bartlett.

630 736-9860.

KIDS Daddy Daughter Date Night – A perfect date night for a dad and his daughter featuring a catered dinner, DJ with dancing, fun crafts, photos and fresh flowers. 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Lemont Park District. 16050 127th Street. Register 630- 257-6787 X 3031.

KIDS Printmaking – Learn easy printmaking techniques that will allow you to make reproductions of your art. Grades 1-6. 3:30-4:30 PM. Winfield Public Library.

Register 630-653-7599.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 EXPO Indoor Flea Market –Free admission for buyers. Doors open at 9:00am sharp! 9am-1pm. Darien Park District Community Center, 7301 Fairview Ave. 630968-6400.

great events 37

FAMILY Lunar New Year – Bring family to celebrate the Lunar New Year through the artistry of traditional Taiwanese dancers. 1-2 PM. Westmont Library, Westmont. 630-969-5625.

FAMILY Winter Carnival – Don’t let cabin fever give your family the winter blues, enjoy some cheer with a FREE carnival! Be sure to bundle up because this is an indoor/outdoor event full of hot cocoa, games, crafts, sledding, and much more! 10 AM – Noon. Sunset Knoll Recreation Center, Lombard. 630-620-7322.

FAMILY Family Day – A day of hands-on art projects themed around the current exhibition. Elmhurst Art Museum. 1 - 4 PM. 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. Free with museum admission or current membership. elmhurstartmuseum.org FAMILY Winter Birds and Backyard Bird Count – All ages will enjoy learning about birds with games, crafts, experiments and activities. 10:30-AM – 2:30 PM. Naperville Park District Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville. 630-848-5000.

NATURE Work Day – Meet at the west side of Dixie Briggs Fromm State Nature Preserve with site stewards for guidance doing restoration work. Algonquin, IL. 9-12 PM. 847-428-8092 x 1005.

PETS Dog Admission Day – Hit the Arboretum trails with your furry friend. Includes an Arboretum ban-

ICE FEST

Downtown Downers Grove February 10, 2018

Preview Night February 9th

dana for your pup. 7 AM-5 PM. Morton Arboretum, Lisle.

630-968-0074.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 FAMILY Concert – The Wheaton College Gospel Choir performs an energetic array of Celtic, Folk, Ragtime, Bluegrass, and Dixieland music. 3 PM. St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lombard. 630-629-2515.

FAMILY Suzuki Piano Festival – The Community School of the Arts (CSA) at Wheaton College presents simultaneous concerts at locations on campus. 1:30 PM and 3:15 PM. Wheaton College. 630.752.5567.

TEENS SAT Prep Test – Experience first-hand what test day will be like with a free, proctored practice test. You will be contacted with your scores after the event. Grades 9-12. 1 PM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. Register 630627-0316.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5 ADULTS Travel Planning – “Be Your Own Travel Agent” teaches you how to use the Internet to book transportation and lodging, find special deals, and explore destinations before leaving home. 11AM-12:30 PM. Skokie Public Library. 847-673-7774 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 VETERANS Free Indoor Rowing Class – Introductory class that will teach proper mechanics of rowing.

Great total body fitness. 6:15 AM. Campana Building, Batavia. 630-207-8337.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 ADULTS Suicide Prevention – “How Talking Saves Lives” Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force will help you identify some of the signs that you or someone you know needs help. Learn how to open up conversations about stress, anxiety, or depression with people you care about. 7-8:30 PM. Wauconda Area Library. Register 847526-6225.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8 ADULTS Weight Loss – Support community of “real” people for weight loss. 5:30-6:30 PM. Poplar Creek Library, Streamwood. 630-280-6628.

ADULTS Amplified Phones – For hard of hearing individuals, attend this program to see if you quality for a free amplified phone, test sample phones. 8:30 AM. Disability Resource Center, Joliet. 815-729-0162.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 ADULTS Advanced Photoshop Elements – Take your Photoshop Elements skills to the next level by learning to enhance your digital photos using layers, cloning, and content-aware fill. Sample images can be provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own. 11AM-12:30 PM. Skokie Public Library. 847-673-7774.

ADULTS “Drinkin’ With Lincoln” – Lemont Area Historical Society takes a walk through Lemont’s historic hangouts with a pub crawl. Visit the saloons, taverns and pubs of days gone by to learn their history. Starts at 7 PM.

38 great events

suburban family | subfam.com

Register 630-257-2972.

FAMILY Daddy Daughter Luau – Hawaiian shirts and hula skirts welcome for dinner, dancing and crafting.

Ages 4-10. 6-8 PM. Grand Oaks Rec Center, Crystal Lake.

Register by 1/2. Also on 2/10. 815-459-0680.

FAMILY Mother Son Date Night – A special evening of dinner, dessert, games and dancing. Suites and dresses are suggested. Ages 4 and up. 6:30-8:30 PM. Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, Hoffman Estates.

847-885-7500.

FAMILY Ice Sculpture Festival – 2/9-11. Decorative ice sculpture competition includes live ice carving demonstrations, live entertainment and family activities.

Fri 6:30 PM, Sat and Sun 11 AM-3PM. Downtown Downers Grove. 630-725-0991.

FAMILY Movie – “Descendants 2” Mail teams up with the children of Captain Hook and Gaston to face her archenemy Uma on the Isle of the Lost. 7-9 PM. Skokie Public Library. 847-673-7774.

TEENS/TWEENS Skating Party – “Friday Night Meltdown” lets you enjoy ice skating while a DJ plays hits and disco lighting shines on the ice throughout the night.

Skate rentals available. 8:15-10:15 PM. 847-724-2800.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 FAMILY Victorian Valentines – Valentines of the Victorian era were treasured keepsakes, incorporating feathers, beads, and bits of fabric. Create your own Victorian-style valentines in a fun, afternoon workshop.

All ages. 1- PM. DuPage County Historical Museum, Wheaton, IL. Register 630-510-4941.

FAMILY Geocache – Is your Valentine hiding at Northside Park? Use a GPS unit to find out! Enjoy marshmallows and hot chocolate afterwards. One GPS unit provided per family. 1-2:30 PM. Northside Park Boy Scout Cabin, Lincoln Marsh, Wheaton. 630-871-2810.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 FAMILY Actor Portrayal: The Lincolns Present The Gettysburg Address – Join President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln on the eve of his birthday to hear about the genesis of his most famous speech. Take a photo with the president and first lady afterwards, kids can test their 19th century handwriting with a steel-tipped pen and ink. All ages. 2-3:30 PM. Elmhurst History Museum Education Center, Elmhurst. Register 630-530-6879.

FAMILY Sweetheart Tea – Bring your sweetheart to the Colonel Palmer House for an elegant luncheon and tea. Historic home with Victorian setting. Ages 4 and up.

12:30 PM. Crystal Lake. Register by 2/3 815-477-5873.

Also 2/12 at 3 PM. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12 FAMILY Black Evanstonian History Makers Up Close – Meet and greet influential African American people of Evanston who have paved a path of hope and January/February 2018

change. Reception with light snacks follows. All ages. 7-9 PM. Noyes Cultural Arts Center, Evanston. 847-866-5914.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 FAMILY Swingin’ Sweethearts – Kid Rock Events for Daddy/Daughter and Mommy/Son, sweetheart music and dance party. Valentine’s activities, chocolate candy, flowers. Ages 1-5 with adult. 5-5:45 PM. Cantigny Visitor’s Center Medill Room, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. Register 630.260.8162. www.cantigny.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 CULTURE American Indian Flute Circle –Discover Native American culture through this musical experience.

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, Evanston. 6-8 PM. 847-475-1030.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 FAMILY Sweetheart Dance – Fun concert with live music, original songs, energy and entertainment. Wendy & DB perform, veteran entertainers. All ages. 7 PM. Helen Plum Library, Lombard. Cardholders pick up tickets at Youth Services desk. 630-627-0316.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 ADULTS Valentine’s Dance – Everyone is welcome. Bring your friends, including other adult groups.

Food served 6:30-7:30 PM, soft drinks, water, coffee, tea available through the night. Bring a snack to share. DJ present throughout the night. 6-10 PM. St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Schaumburg. 847-397-9643.

FAMILY Intro to Curling – Windy City Curling Club teaches basic curling strategy for ages 8 and above. No prior experience or skates required. 1PM-5PM. Newton Park. Glen Ellyn Park District. 630-942-7260.

TEEN Frosty 3v3 Soccer Tournament – Teams comprised of 3-6 players, games played outdoors - rain, snow, or shine. 9AM-4PM. Newton Park. Glen Ellyn Park District. Register gepark.org.

FAMILY Chocolate Fest – Featuring charity bakeoff competition where professional and amateur bakers go head to head, free apron decorating workshops for children, baking demonstrations and an array of freshly made sweet treats available for purchase. 11 AM-2 PM. Homewood, IL. 708-798-3000.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19 KIDS Professor Suds – Wondrous show performed with music. Complicated bubble sculptures, dancing bubbles, a bubble storm, and one viewer will get to be in a bubble. 10 AM. Matz Hall, Winnetka Community House.

Register 847-446-0537.

FAMILY Winter Birds and Backyard Bird Count – All ages will enjoy learning about birds with games, crafts, experiments and activities. 10 AM – 3 PM. Naperville Park District Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville.

630-848-5000.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 TEENS Draw Four! An UNO Tournament – Show off your UNO skills! Hang out with other homeschooled teens and play multiple rounds of UNO. First and second place winners receive a gift card to Dunkin’ Donuts. Homeschooled teens Grades 9-12. 1 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 KIDS Olympic Ice Rink – Speed skating, hockey, curling, figure skating and so many winter sports all happen on an ice rink! Make your own ice rink and whatever athletes you’d like to go with it. Grades 4-8. 4:15 PM. Register 630-627-0316. helenplum.org.

KIDS Super Circuits – Learn how electricity works.

Design your own circuits to make various objects light up or move. Grades 3-5. 4 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. Register 630-469-0879.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 ADULTS Live Performance – Stephen Peterson of the band North of Eight plays original music and takes requests. 6:30-9:30 PM. Preservation Bread and Wine, Geneva, IL 630-208-1588.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 KIDS Art – “Kids Paint Art Attack” nurtures the love of art with Simple to follow, stroke-by-stroke age appropriate directions making creating your artwork easy. We supply the 11 x 14 canvas and acrylic paint. You bring friends, snack and beverage. Ages 6 and up. 10 AM. Crystal Lake. 815-459-0680.

DANCE African American Dance – Deeply Rooted Dance Theater is rooted in traditions of African American dance and storytelling to provide an emotional experience for diverse audiences. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie. 7:30 PM. 847-673-6300.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 ADULTS Build A Website – Learn how to build websites and blogs with WordPress and HTML. 10AM12PM. Tinley Park Public Library. 708-532-0160.

KIDS Literary Club – “The League of Strange and Unusual” incorporates graphic novels, messy experiments and Ninja stars for “not your average, everyday library club.” Grades 5-7. 4:30-5:30 PM. Joliet Public Library. 815740-2660.

TEENS Chinese New Year Celebration – Ring in the Year of the Dog with games and crafts. Grades 6-12.

7-8 PM. Tinley Park Public Library. 708-532-0160.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 ADULTS Yoga – Certified yoga instructor Karen Payne introduces yoga poses, alignment, breathing, and meditation. 6:30 PM. The Well Spirituality Center, LaGrange Park. 708-482-5048.

KIDS Olympic Speed Challenges – A variety of themed challenges to race through. Test your athleticism and perhaps bring home a gold medal. Grades K-3, parents welcome. 4:15 PM. Register 630-627-0316. helenplum.org.

ONGOING ADULTS Business Before Hours – Wauconda Chamber members regularly meet and network to learn, share ideas and build their business. 7:15-8:30 AM. Wauconda Café, Wauconda. 847-858-0712.

ADULTS Naperville Area Diversity Dinner Group – Naperville Area Diversity Dinner Group offers respectful discourse - Discussion, Dinner and Democratic De-

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 FAMILY Winter Tree Hunt – Learn all about local trees and their unique features while following the clues on the map. The day’s adventure will end with sampling some sweet surprises that come from trees. Ages 5 and up. 10-11:30 AM. Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, Schaumburg. 847-985-2100.

KIDS Daddy Daughter Dance – Celebrate with your little princess! All the arrangements are taken care of so you can relax, dine and dance the night away at this very special event. 4 – 7 PM. Age: 4 years and older. Chevy Chase Country Club. Wheeling Park District. Fee. Register 847-465-3333.

January/February 2018

suburban family | subfam.com

great events 39

cision making. Groups of 10-12, couples/singles decide on potluck dinner/topics once per month at member homes.

Contact Mary Glatz at 720-205-8944.

ADULTS Exhibit – “1917: Catalyst for the Modern Era.” An exhibit shedding light on the catastrophe of World War I and its century-long aftermath with military artifacts. Through 7/30. Mon-Fri 9:30 AM-4PM; Sat-Sun Noon – 4PM. DuPage County Historical Museum, Wheaton. 630-520-4941.

ADULTS Exhibit – “Freedom: A History of US.” 1/123/11. Highlights include reproductions of a rare 1776 printing of the Declaration of Independence, a secretly printed draft and official copy of the U.S. Constitution, Lincoln’s handwritten speech notes, and letters by Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Martin Luther King Jr. Sun, Tues-Fri 1-5PM.; Sat. 10AM-5 PM. Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst. 630-833-1457.

ADULTS Exhibit – William Blake and the Age of the Aquarius explores the impact of artist William Blake and his impacts post WWII into the 1960s regard non-conformity, individuality and resistance to authority. Mary Leigh Block Museum of Art, Evanston. 847-491-4000.

ADULTS Fleet Feet Fun Run – Meets on Jan. 6 and every Saturday. Ongoing Chicago Lincoln Square “Breakfast Club” and social running group that explores Chicago’s routes, open to new people from walk-run to Boston Marathon trainers. 8-9:30 AM. 773-271-3338.

ADULTS Stage – “Lather. Rinse. Repeat. Fall. Climb.

Release.” 1/5-6. Three black women navigate their journeys with catharsis through trauma and therapy, self-discovery and validation, history and nostalgia. 7PM. Links Hall, Chicago. ticketfly.com.

ADULTS Stage – “Ten Dollar Comedy.” Weekly showcase featuring some of Chicago’s best improve, stand up and sketch comedy. Tuesdays, 8:30-10 PM. Judy’s Beat Lounge in The Second City Training Center, Chicago. 708220-2077.

ADULTS Toastmasters International – Build “quick-learning” skills as you give 1-2 minute speeches on general subjects with plenty of practice in various communications experiences. Ages Teen-Adult. Tuesdays 12-1PM and Wednesdays 5:30-7:30PM. Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce. 630-226-8420.

ADULTS Writer’s Group – Interactive group allows writers to obtain feedback from their peers on original writing. Thursdays 1/11 and 1/25; 2/8 and 2/22. 7-9 PM. Westmont Library, Westmont. 630-969-5625.

FAMILY Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe Rental – Through 3/11. Available on most days with four inches of snow. Various scenic and ability trails. 10AM-4PM weekdays, 9AM-4PM weekends. Call before visiting. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-968-0074.

FAMILY/ADULTS – “Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament” offers ongoing shows with jousting, 40 great events

horsemanship & falconry plus a 4-course, utensil-free meal served in a castle-like space. Parties, company events, special packages. Times vary. Schaumburg.

847-882-1496.

warmth in the coldest of places. Playing at various suburban theaters such as Joliet Junior College, Moraine Valley College, Tivoli Theater, and Prairie Center for the Arts. 630932-1555.

FAMILY Art Exhibit – Through 2018. “Art Is Instrumental.” Play, hear, and move to the sound of a variety of instruments while being surrounded by both paintings and sculptures. DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville.

630-637-8000. dupagechildrens.org.

FAMILY The Great Midwest Train Show – The world’s largest monthly train show with an average of 180 exhibitors at each show, featuring trains of all scales and gauges. Discounted prices on over 550 table of trains.

5 Buildings - plus outside sellers. 2/11, 3/11, 4/8, 5/6, 6/3.

9 AM-3PM. DuPage County Fairgrounds. 630-290-1962.

FAMILY Enchanted Railroad – 1/13-2/19. Marvel at the indoor intricate model railroad as it winds through a four-season display. Watch as more than 10 model trains run on a two-level, larger-than-life platform. Free timed tickets available at the Visitor Center Information Desk.

Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-968-0074.

FAMILY Fishing & Outdoor Show – 1/25-28. Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo is a sports fishing spectacular. Thu and Fri 12-8PM, Sat 10AM-5PM and Sun 10-5 PM. Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg.

630-431-4315.

FAMILY Ice Skating – Thru Feb 28. Oakbrook Center Ice Skating Rink. 10AM-9PM Mon.-Sat. and 11 AM-6 PM Sun. Oakbrook Center. 630-573-0700.

FAMILY Gnome Hunt – Through 3/31. The animals are hibernating but gnomes still abound. All ages. Children’s Garden, Morton Arboretum. 9:30 AM-4 PM. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-968-0074.

FAMILY Ice Sculpture Festival – 2/9-11. Decorative ice sculpture competition includes live ice carving demonstrations, live entertainment and family activities.

Fri 6:30 PM, Sat and Sun 11 AM-3PM. Downtown Downers Grove. 630-725-0991.

FAMILY Orchid Show – 2/10-3/25. 10,000 gorgeous orchids on display with features including how celebrities from Jackie Kennedy to Selena Gomez utilized flowers in their ensembles. Photo opportunities and special event throughout the display timeframe, orchids for sale. Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe. 8AM-5PM. 847-835-5440.

FAMILY Fun Unplugged – Thru 2/26. Enjoy creativity sparked by the endless possibility of the open air, specific accessories, toys and games helped to create memories in the backyard and school playground.

Those magical moments and lasting impressions of outdoor fun are recreated in this imaginative exhibit.

DuPage Historical Museum. 102 E. Wesley Street, Wheaton. 630-510-4941.

FAMILY Sky Circus on Ice – 2/16-18. Marvel at ice/ snow sculptures, gigantic kite displays, see kite-making workshops and expert-led kit flying lessons. Lake Lawn Resort, Delvan, WI. 800-345-1020.

FAMILY Stage – Through 2/11. AlphaBet Soup Productions Professional Theatre for Young Audiences presents “The Snow Queen.”Two sisters set off on a winter adventure and discover that friends and family will bring suburban family | subfam.com

FAMILY Toddler Tuesdays – Through 1/31. Legoland weekly program includes activities to keep toddlers busy while teaching lessons and developing milestones.

Parenting Groups welcome. 10AM-12 PM. Schaumburg.

847-592-9700.

FAMILY Winterfest – 1/27-2/4. Lake Geneva, WI, hosts Winterfest and the National Snow Sculpting Competition. Fifteen teams of sculptors from across the country create works of art with People’s Choice voting awards. Other events include a Human Dog Sled Race, live magic/illusion show, helicopter rides, historic tours of Maxwell Mansion, a STAR Party at Yerkes Observatory, a chili cook-off and the Cocoa Crawl in downtown Lake Geneva. 800-345-1020.

FAMILY Winter Olympics Bingo – 2/1-28. All ages. Watch the 2018 Winter Olympic Games and mark your Bingo card (pick up at Adult or Youth Services desk) as Olympic feats happen. Score a Bingo when 5 marked boxes in a row and return to library to receive a gold button and enter for a chance to win a Target gift card. Drop in program, Helen Plum Library, Lombard. Library card required. 630-627-0316.

KIDS Nature Play Spaces – Free play in the outdoors at the “Mud Kitchen” with a tree stump stove, pots, pans and shovels inside a cabin with a dirt pit and digging tools nearby; Word Garden with painted rocks with words, letters and pictures. Adult companion needed for kids. 7 AM-sunset daily. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-968-0074.

KIDS STEM Club – Challenge yourself to different problem-solving puzzles each month. Use ordinary materials and your imagination to build, create, and test your ideas.

Grades K-2. 4 PM. Glen Ellyn Public Library. 630-469-0979.

SENIORS Retirement Pleasures and Pitfalls – 1/11 and ongoing. Discussion group for retired, semiretired or soon to retire seniors. Find new purpose and meaning, set new goals or tackle topics such as exercise, health and bucket lists. 9:30-11 AM. Alcott Center, Buffalo Grove. 847-634-6535.

SENIORS Tuesday Night Bingo – Ongoing Bingo at the Alexander Bradley Burns American Legion Post 80, Downers Grove. 4 PM. 630-968-9710.

TEENS Facetime Social – Play 2 hours of pool, darts, ping pong, and video games. Also included is a slice of pizza, candy bar and a pop. Fridays 6 PM-12 AM. West Suburban Chamber of Commerce, Indian Head Park, IL 708-784-6344.

January/February 2018

dining out

Mon Ami Gabi

Mon Ami Gabi also hosts a number of Can-Can Shows, cooking classes and wine dinners. Stay tuned for updates on our website under News & Events and follow us on our Facebook page. Mon Ami Gabi is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, along with weekend brunch available Saturday and Sunday. Happy Hour takes place in our bar area every Monday to Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy all craft cocktails, beer, wines by the glass and hors d’oeuvres for half the price.

Grabbing lunch at Oakbrook Center? Enjoy Mon Ami Gabi’s new Express Lunch menu. For $17.95, enjoy a three-course meal complete with choice of Soup Du Jour or Petite Salad Maison, 5 oz Steak Frites or Salmon Frites, and choice of Un Profiterole or Sorbet Du Jour for dessert. Call 630-472-1900 for more information or to make a reservation.

Vino Thai

Vino Thai serves up healthy and fresh Thai Cuisine. Ever since 1990, Vino Thai has provided customers with the finest and freshest tasting Thai food in a pleasurable dining atmosphere. Signature dishes include Golden Chicken, Crazy Noodles and Chicken Curry Fried Rice. Dine in Carry Out. Vino Thai is located in East Gate Commons, 3825 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174. Open every day for lunch and dinner. For reservations call 630-443-8461. vinothai.com

Mon Ami Gabi is located at the east side of Oakbrook Center mall, near Neiman Marcus at 260 Oakbrook Center Oak Brook, IL 60523.

Healthy Fresh Thai Cuisine OAKBROOK CENTER MALL • OAK BROOK, IL MONAMIGABI.COM

630.472.1900

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(630) 443-8461 www.vinothai.com January/February 2018

Stay C O N N E C T E D : suburban family | subfam.com

dining out 41

Catch 35 Seafood & Steaks

Celebrate the New Year with fresh offerings at Catch 35 Naperville, Seafood and Premium Steaks. Catch 35’s menu is highlighted with a seasonal variety of fresh seafood like Florida Shrimp cocktail, Yellowfin Tuna Sashimi, Chilean Sea Bass, and Juicy George’s Bank Scallops.

Stop in for lunch! Catch 35’s lunch menu offers NEW Tuna, Salmon, or Beef Tenderloin Poke bowls; plus, burgers, sandwiches, and crispy seafood platters. Open at 11:30am every Monday-Saturday.

Catch 35 is a true Seafood and Steak house with an extensive global wine list and specialty cocktails. Devour Catch 35’s 3-course Prix Fixe menu featuring Signature entrees for only $37. Visit www.catch35. com and discover our weekly specials, community discounts, and bar specials. Reserve your table today and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. Locations: 35 W. Wacker, Chicago, 312-346-3500 and 35 S. Washington, Naperville, 630-717-3500.

Shikara

Shikara, an authentic Indian restaurant is a truly unique addition to those craving the deep, rich flavors of the populous land. Indian cookery is among the world’s most distinctive and enticing cuisines, one whose influence can be discerned in culinary traditions around the globe. Over the generations, Indian food has taken on many shapes and forms, absorbing culinary techniques found in both eastern and western regions of the world.

Through years of experience, our chefs can now offer a perfect balance of both the traditional as well as the contemporary forms that Indian cooking has developed. Now, food connoisseurs can take delight in the various dishes that taste as exotic as their names. This company has been in the Restaurant, Catering & Banquet business for more than 20 years. 1620 75th St.,Downers Grove. 630-964-1720. www.shikararestaurant.com

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42 dining out

suburban family | subfam.com

January/February 2018

Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series 2018 Arts Series

8 pm in Ramsey Auditorium unless noted otherwise

Golden Dragon Acrobats Feb. 24 @ 7pm The High Kings March 24 The Villalobos Brothers April 28 Story Collider May 12

Lecture Series

8 pm in Ramsey Auditorium

Quantum Engineering for Next Generation Technologies Dr. David Awschalom

Jan. 26 Frugal Science

Dr. Manu Prakash

March 16

Sound: Invisible Ally & Enemy of Brain Health Dr. Nina Kraus

April 13 The Art & Science Behind Pixar Films Danielle Feinberg

May 4

Gallery Chamber Series Sundays @ 2:30

Dark Matters Installation & Concert January 21 (Auditorium) Metropolis Quartet February 25 (Gallery) Axiom Brass March 11 (Gallery)

Golden Dragon Acrobats

PechaKucha Batavia February 15 at 7 pm

The High Kings

Villalobos Brothers

Full season information and tickets at events.fnal.gov

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PUBLIC SKATING HOURS WED EVENING 6:30PM-9PM FRI EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM SAT MORNING 10:30AM-1PM SAT AFTERNOON 1:30PM-4:30PM SAT EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM SUN AFTERNOON 1:30AM-4:30PM SUN EVENING 6:30PM-9PM PLUS $3.00 FOR SKATE RENTAL

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7231 West Archer Ave. • Summit

(1/4 Block West of Harlem, 3 Blocks South of I-55) Additional parking across Archer Avenue in our lot

708-458-0300

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