Suburban Family ~ November + December 2019

Celebrating 20 Years!

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NOV/DEC 2019

l HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS l NOV & DEC EVENTS l ON STAGE l FITTING IN FITNESS

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Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series

events.fnal.gov - 630/840.ARTS - Kirk & Pine, Batavia, IL Children of Metropolis: Scrap Arts Music

Nov. 9, 2019 @ 8 pm -$35/$10 for students with promo code SCRAP

A fast-paced, all-acoustic percussion show with sci-fi-inspired film projections. Five musicians perform with gymnastic agility and percussive drive, demonstrating mesmerizing musical skill while striking, moving and bowing beautiful-sounding, hand-made, mobile sculptural instruments created from industrial scrap. “High-kicking, virtuosic and adrenaline packed!” - Winnipeg Free Press

Christmas at the Silent Movies with Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra

Dec. 14 @ 8 pm - $25/$13 for ages 18 and under

Join the premier American ragtime ensemble as they perform original historic scores to holiday-themed silent films of yesteryear: Buster Keaton in The Frozen North (1922), Laurel & Hardy in Big Business (1929) and the first-ever film adaptations of A Christmas Carol and The Night Before Christmas.

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november/december 2019 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Beach Jaime Cowper Joanne Fink Christa Melnyk Hines Heather Lee Leap James M. Lewis, MD Dr. Bill Miller Judy M. Miller Dr. Elaine Fogel Schneider Dr. Deborah Ross-Swain

EVENTS EDITOR Pam Molnar

PUBLISHER Jim Wolf

CO-EDITORS Sue Wolf Jim Wolf

seasons

6

out & about

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Tips to Tame the Holiday Circus

Season’s Best Holiday Happenings On Stage

celebrate!

Celebrate the Season with Enjoyable Desserts Party Places

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education central 32 Help for Your Child with Learning Differences Manage ADHD at the Holidays Education Resource

family wellness

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active kids

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fitness first

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Eat Your Way to a Great Night’s Sleep Surviving Holiday Grief Active Kids Zone

Fitting-in Fitness Fitness Events

senior focus

7 Heart Healthy Tips for Seniors Leave The Legacy You Want Senior Living Resource Freebies For Seniors Grandpa Has Alzheimer’s

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ART DIRECTION Tim Devine Cory Ottenwess

ADVERTISING Sue Wolf Laura Zolper

great events

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CIRCULATION

dining out

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Chicago Suburban Family Magazine C E R T I F I E D C I R C U L AT I O N

#1 family events calendar City Events

Superb places to dine out with family and friends.

Wishing you peace & joy at the holiday season ...from all of us at

Suburban Family.

Lou Fracassi

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.

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 November/December 2019

seasons

by Christa Melnyk Hines

A

re holiday traditions, parties, volunteer commitments and shopping turning you into a frenzied ringmaster of a runaway circus train? For your sanity and for your health, put the brakes on the holiday rush. Here’s how.

1.) Make a “Not-to-Do” List. Consciously leave a few activities off the program this year.

Ellie Griffin, a feminine vitality coach, says this is one of her favorite ways to reduce holiday stress. “I love having my clients do this exercise because it makes them realize how much of what they do doesn’t have an affect on the big picture of their lives,” she says.

2.) End a tradition. Let go of rituals that are more work than fun or are no longer meaningful. Attempting to turn the holiday season into the greatest show on earth, could put your health at risk. According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress can weaken your immune system making it harder to recover from illness and can cause heart disease, obesity and depression.

3.) Catch your zzz's. You perform better when you are well-rested. Strive for seven to eight hours of sleep, which can help you cope better with stress. “Poor sleep habits keep you jittery, irritable and feeling like you’re just dragging yourself around,” says Rosalie Moscoe, author of Frazzled, Hurried Woman! Your Stress Relief Guide to Thriving...Not Merely Surviving.

6 seasons

4.) Choreograph the chaos. Organize your shopping trips. Ask for help from your significant other. When possible, buy gifts whenever you are already out running errands. Make shipping a breeze, by purchasing some gifts online. After pounding the pavement, reward yourself with dinner out, pizza delivery or a glass of wine by a cozy fire.

5.) Clown around. During the holiday rush try not to schedule every free moment. “By pursuing pleasure in her life, a woman can not only enjoy a more fulfilling life, but in the process increase production of oxytocin, a hormone crucial to lowering stress hormones,” Griffin says. Go through your calendar and block out 15 to 30 minutes each day to do something just for your personal enjoyment, like a manicure, lunch with a friend, yoga, a nap, or reading a book.

6.) Juggle less. Planning, cooking, cleaning and entertaining can test even the most talented acrobat. Host a light-hearted appetizer party instead of a serious dinner soiree. Choose menu items that can be prepared ahead of time or have the event catered to make it easier for you to enjoy the festivities along with your guests.

7.) Rely on your safety net. “Ask for help!

Get your family to help with cleaning up at home. Or, if you can, hire a cleaning person,” Moscoe says. “Take a break, be kind to yourself. There will always be something to finish-that’s life!” For casual parties, prepare the main dish and ask your friends if they can bring side items or desserts.

8.) Revel in the moment. Duck out of the buzzing fluorescent lights and long lines.

Take an evening stroll to breathe in the cool December air and admire the holiday lights illuminating the streets. Allow the movement suburban family | subfam.com

to calm your mind without further stressing your body.

9.) Feed yourself right. Hunger and exhaustion can bring out the tiger in anyone.

Eat wholesome, good mood foods with protein for energy. “Don’t bring extra cookies or chocolate into the house in advance of the holidays,” Moscoe says. “This will make you cranky, tired and cause fluctuations in blood sugar.”

10.) Plan for surprises. Keep tricks up your sleeve for managing those last-minute gift exchanges. While running errands, purchase small gifts that you can stash. And, go ahead and store those extra cookies in the freezer for drop-in visitors.

11.) Simplify decor. Swap time-consuming and expensive lights and holiday cartoon characters for homemade decorations. Try making luminaries with your kids. Draw a star or tree on a lunch-size paper bag. Punch holes into the design and fill the bag with sand. Light the bags with battery-charged tea lights.

12.) Focus on the magic. Carefully consider what makes the holidays special for you and your family. Ask your kids, too. Their answers may surprise you. Perhaps they would like to try building gingerbread houses this year or want to spend a toasty evening in their pajamas drinking hot chocolate and watching holiday specials.

Most of all, resolve to bring your holidays from over the top to just right for you. Even one small change can make all the difference between anxiously counting the days until the show is over to living in the moment, celebrating more peace and joy with your family this season.

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e understand how important holidays can be, so we’ve gathered these wonderful events and attractions of places to go and things to do to add to your celebrations. Enjoy!.

Abbey Farms Start Your Holiday Season at Abbey Farms!

Searching for an old-fashioned treat to bring to your holiday gatherings this year? Apple crisp, pies, German comfort food from our Pine Tree Cafe -- plus the Farmstead Empori8 out & about

um offers a wide variety of time-tested flavors for your seasonal cooking at home. Christmas trees and wreaths are available beginning Saturday, November 23, and be sure to look for Santa, too! Enjoy an award-winning apple cider donut, free, when you purchase your tree – and ask about our tree delivery service!

For more info, visit AbbeyFarms.org! [See our ad on the Inside Front Cover.]

Kohl Children’s Museum 17 interactive hands-on exhibits to spark curiosity and inspire a love of learning for children ages birth to 8. Now through January 26, come explore the great outdoors with our interactive exhibit Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond, based on the hit PBS Kids TV show, and developed in partnership with Spiffy Pictures and WTTW! See for yourself why we’re suburban family | subfam.com

The Place Where Awesome Lives! Located at 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, IL. For more information, call 847-832-6600 or visit www. kcmgc.org. [See our ad on Back Cover.]

WhirlyBall WhirlyBall Naperville is open to host your Holiday Party! Boasting a two-story “eatertainment” complex with WhirlyBall, eight bowling lanes, a four-lane bowling suite, HyperBowling and a multilevel laser tag area.

WhirlyBall’s food is powered by its restaurant, The Pivot Room. The Pivot Room’s relaxed dining experience featuring a fresh take on classic American fare, and an expansive rotating craft beer selection. Reserve your space today! WHIRLYBALL NAPERVILLE, 3103 ODYSSEY CT, 630-932-4800 [See our ad on Page 5.]

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Cascade Mountain...where kids ski free!

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 47 ski trails and snow tubing. 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.cascademountain. com TransWorld’s Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show Holiday cheer and the best holiday shopping awaits you at the TransWorld’s Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show coming to the Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center from December 5-8, 2019. All you need for great holiday gifts and more will be on sale.

Discover jewelry, clothing, accessories, and beauty products to highlight your style; gifts for special occasions; and much more. All are welcome (16 years old and above) to attend the Schaumburg Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show December 5-8. Kid’s day is Sunday, December 8th where 9-15 year olds are welcome with an accompanying adult. Visit www. jfashow.com and make sure to register to attend today! (See our ad on p. 3.)

Village of Arlington Heights The Holiday Season is Wonderful in Arlington Heights! Arlington Heights is the perfect holiday destination for your family. It all starts with our grand Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 29th. Great events continue with Small Business Saturday on November 30th.

Come out and shop at independent and national retailers in our award-winning Downtown. And don’t forget the Rotary Santa Run on December 7th, a 5K race featuring hundreds of St. Nicks dashing through the streets. With great shopping, entertainment, and events, Arlington Heights is the place to be this holiday season! For more information, please visit www.DiscoverArlington.com!

orchestra. Cookie and punch reception between performances, as well as childcare for children under age 4. Christ Church Downers Grove (We’ve moved!) 2S361 Glen Park Rd., Lombard, IL 60148. 630654-1884. www.christchurch.us

Christ Church Spirit Village & Carolfest Christ Church Offers Free Family-Friendly Events: Spirit Village & Carolfest on December 7 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. is an alternative Christmas market that supports the real needs of people locally and globally. Give gifts on behalf of those on your Christmas list that will uplift and help those less fortunate. Help those in need while having a fun family day with balloons, face-painting and a petting zoo.

Carol Fest is December 8 at 3:00 p.m.

And 6:00 p.m., and features portions of Handel’s “Messiah” as well as songs of the Christmas season with a large choir and

13th Annual Festival of Lights Presented by the Aurora Noon Rotary Club Enjoy the magic of the 2019 Festival of Lights. Featuring a 20’ tall Dancing Christmas Tree & SINGING Reindeer. This is the largest FREE outdoor holiday light displays in Northern Illinois and is presented by the Aurora Noon Rotary Club in partnership with the City of Aurora. It is a mile long drive-through of spectacular displays.

Staged at Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora. Open nightly 5 to 9, Nov. 29 through Dec. 26. Freewill donations appreciated. www.aurorafestivaloflights.com

Gift Bazaar & Holiday Brunch Buffet Sunday, November 24

Rotary Club Ugly Sweater 5K Saturday, November 30

Opening Ceremony Saturday, November 30

Lunch with Santa

Saturday, December 14

Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 21

Snow-Much Fun Family Night

Saturday, December 21 Food Drive | Giving Tree Santa’s Mailbox and much more!

HollyDaysFestival.com | 630.963.5252 10 out & about

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Wilmot Mountain Embrace Winter Family Fun at Wilmot Mountain! Traverse the slopes, take a lesson, enjoy upgraded food & beverages options at Ski Hill Grill, attend great season long events or enjoy slope side views and a hot toddy at Walt’s Tavern. Ski, snowboard and tube with us this season. 11931 Fox River Road, Wilmot, WI. www.wilmotmountain.com

Village of Lemont…

Enjoy Our Holiday Scene!

Brighten up your holiday season by visiting Lemont and taking a stroll all around our historic downtown as we’re “Lighting Up Lemont” this season. Our illuminating holiday decoration display includes a fun twist for the entire family this year! Loomie, an augmented reality app, features interactive games to play and allows users to create unique photos and holiday cards in seconds.

Our holiday season begins with our Hometown Holiday event in our historic downtown on Saturday, December 7, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. We will be “Lighting Up Lemont” with our dazzling light display sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association and the Village of Lemont throughout the entire season! Come and experience Lemont and Enjoy Our Holiday Scene! www.lemont. il.us/Holiday.

Plainfield Park District The Plainfield Park District has several family special events planned for this fall and winter. Nov. 8: Mother Son Superhero Fun at the Prairie Activity & Rec. Ctr. (PARC) 24550 W. Renwick Rd. 6:30-8p. Nov. 30: Grinchmas on the Green, Village Green Pk., 24121 W. Chicago St. Dec. 14: Breakfast with Santa at PARC. Dec. 13-14: Journey to the North Pole, 4 Seasons Pk., 22500 Lockport St. More info & to register go to plfdparks.org.

November/December 2019

Free! i k S s d i K e r e Wh

SKIING T RIDING T TUBING Just 15 minutes from Wisconsin Dells

www.cascademountain.com

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Holly Days in Westmont The annual Holly Days Winter Festival returns to Westmont! Join us on November 24 as we begin the festival with Decorating Day; shop at the Gift Bazaar, donate to the Food Drive and enjoy a tasty holiday breakfast buffet prepared by the Lions Club. Opening Night, complete with the Frosty and Friends Parade and Santa’s arrival on Saturday, November 30 is not to be missed. Don’t miss our Snow-Much Fun Night on December 21 with sled dogs, games, crafts, Santa’s Workshop, s’mores and more! For a complete list of Holly Days activities, please visit www.hollydaysfestival.com or by calling 630.963.5252.

Aurora Downtown Aurora Downtown welcomes you to enjoy the holidays with free events for everyone, like Winter Lights on November 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. Then join us at First Fridays, a night of free trolley rides, art shows, live music, and more throughout downtown Aurora. On December 6, it’s our second annual Cocoa Crawl. Purchase your mug and button before they sell out. Follow us on Facebook at Aurora Downtown. www.auroradowntown.org

harvested Pine and Fir trees. Includes shaking, baling and one of our famous apple cider donuts for everyone in your party. Browse The Orchard Shop & Bakery for great gift ideas, gourmet foods, pies, fudge, apple cider and so much more! Located in Maple Park, IL just 45 minutes west of Chicago. Visit YouPickFun.com or call 815-827-5200 for more information.

Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society 2019 Holiday Housewalk and Market for Healthy Kids Join the OPRF Infant Welfare Society for a fun weekend of Holiday Festivities on December 5-7, 2019.

Tour 5 beautiful homes, festively decorated for the holidays in Oak Park and River Forest. Shop one of a kind artisan vendors offering unique gift items at our Holiday Market and enjoy music food and drinks at the Holiday Spirit and Wine Tasting on Thursday and the not so Trivial Pursuit night on Friday. All proceeds benefit the IWS Children’s Clinic.

Purchase tickets at www.oprfiws.org/events or at the door day of the event. Nineteenth Century Club, 178 Forest Ave, Oak Park.

Kuipers Family Farm Visit the farm for a huge selection of freshly Living Wheaton for the Holidays Downtown Wheaton is decked out for the holidays this season. Gather around the community fireplace with hot cocoa at Martin Memorial Plaza and enjoy old-fashioned carriage rides along Front Street. Drop off you letter to Santa in his special mailbox located next to the giant Living Wheaton chair at the ‘W’ Plaza on Front Street.

The season opens with the Living Wheaton Christmas Parade on Friday, November 29th at 6pm. Keep local awesome by supporting our small downtown businesses on Shop Small Saturday, November 30th and visit with live reindeer that same day from 12pm to 2pm at Martin Memorial Plaza. Enjoy Christmas festival family activities every Saturday through December 21st. For details visit downtownwheaton.com.

Downers Grove Park District Holiday Events Learn more at dgparks.org Merry & Bright: A Victorian Christmas FREE! Saturday, Dec. 14: 3 to 7pm Downers Grove Museum, 831 Maple Ave. Enjoy some holiday cheer and celebrate the season with Victorian Christmas traditions, carolers, luminary walk, campfire and a visit with Santa!

New Year’s Eve Countdown to Noon 12 out & about

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November/December 2019

Tuesday, Dec. 31: 10am to 12pm Downers Grove Recreation Center, 4500 Belmont Rd. Ring in the new year at noon and celebrate with party favors, a DJ, photo booth, face painting, snacks, a balloon drop and more! Advance registration required.

Holiday Lights in Lilacia Park Join the Lombard Park District’s annual lighting celebration1 Charming holiday displays light up Lilacia Park with a magical array of animated light shows, decorated trees, a gingerbread house, and much more. Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, and visit with holiday characters.

Holidays takes place every weekend, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday beginning December 7 until December 22.

150 S. Park Ave. Lombard, IL 60148.

Lombardparks.com

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Christmas Town at Summerfield Zoo An amazing opportunity to make Christmas memories!

Visit Santa’s Reindeer Barn with Santa’s entire sleigh team of live reindeer. Visit with Santa Claus (times available on website).

Kids will earn an official stable elf diploma!

Baby reindeer flight school training sessions.

Lots of magical photo opportunities, including live reindeer! Grab a delicious snack at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen Snack Shop. Visit the Flying Reindeer Gift Shop for ALL of your Christmas shopping needs! Admission is $10 per person. www.summerfieldfarmandzoo.com 3088 Flora Rd. Belvidere, IL

cember 6-22: Fridays, 2-10PM; Saturdays and Sundays, 11AM-10PM. Admission is FREE! Visit www.NaperSettlement.org/Yuletide for more information.

Yuletide Festival & Fair Naper Settlement Open Select Days – December 6-22 Make your Holiday merry and bright at the new Yuletide Festival and Fair! Experience the joy of the holiday season with live entertainment, local art and craft vendors, wintry food and beverages from local restaurants and breweries, and more! Stroll through Naper Settlement’s historic grounds decorated for the holiday season with twinkling lights and plenty of holiday spirit. Yuletide Festival & Fair runs Friday through Sunday from De-

Cantigny Park Good times and holiday cheer await your family in Wheaton! Cantigny’s Celebrate the Season Festival and Mistletoe Market take place on Dec. 7, followed by the popular LEGO Train Show Dec. 14-15. Brunches with Santa are set for Dec. 1 and 22, or dine with The Grinch on Dec. 7 or 14. Reserve your table at Cantigny.org. See many more events and full details online. For event updates, text PARK to 36000.

Granite Peak Ski Area Wisconsin’s #1 Ski Area located in an authentic ski town! Your family will have so much to do for the entire weekend. Ski and Stay packages as low as $452 for a family of 4! 3 High Speed chair lifts with beginner runs that allow for your whole family, no matter their ability, ski all day long! Combo tickets starting at $299 for 5 Days. Now that’s a deal! Book now at Skigranitepeak.com

Ride Metra to Winter Fun With traffic-free trips to festive Chicagoarea destinations like shopping, ice skating, theaters, light displays and more, Metra is made for the holidays! Enjoy unlimited rides Saturday and Sunday for just $10, and free rides for up to three kids 11 and under with each fare-paying adult on weekends and select holidays. For more fun trip ideas, schedules and to find the station nearest you, visit metrarail.com today!

Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink With the start of the holiday season, ice skating has returned to Cicero! Located at 3400 S 53rd Ave, Cicero, Illinois 60804.

Check out times, rates, and weather-related updates at www.facebook.com/bobbyhullcommunityicerink/

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November/December 2019

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NOVEMBER Holiday Artists Bazaar 2019. 11/1-12-21.

Unique artwork and fine crafts for purchase as holiday gifts. The Lemont Center for the Arts. lemont.il.us.

Wilder Mansion Holiday Market – 11/1-2.

Enjoy one-of-a-kind arts, crafts including jewelry, fiber, glass, ceramics, gourmet food, and unique holiday gifts from 50 artisans and vendors. Elmhurst. rglmarketingforthearts.com.

Lombard Christmas Mart – 11/2. Art and craft fair inside various downtown churches and other locations. 9 AM-3 PM. Downtown Lombard. lombardhistory.org.

The Nutcracker Suite – 11/2. Salt Creek Ballet dancers will perform for about 20 minutes before inviting the audience on stage to learn a short routine. 10 AM. Washington Jr. High, Naperville. Fundraiser for DuPage Children’s Museum. dupagechildrens.org.

A Holiday Happening – 11/2-3. Art and Craft Fair with over 200 booths. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. craftproductionsinc. com.

Turkey Shoot Golf Outing – 11/2. Two person teams. Holes 1-6 Scramble, holes 7-12 Alternate Shot, holes 13-18 Best Ball. Pheasant Run Resort, St. Charles. pheasantrun.com.

Winter Showcase Fashion Show – 11/4. Silent auction, luncheon, fashion and jewelry show. 11 AM – 2 PM. Abbington Distinct Banquets. Glen Ellyn. Reservations glenellynchamber.com Weed Ladies Winter Show and Holiday Floral Sales – 11/7-10. Featuring holiday-themed floral arrangements and accessories. Naper Settlement, Naperville. napersettlement.org/ 16 out & about

weedladies.

A Dicken’s of a Holiday Craft Show – 11/9.

Find unique, handcrafted holiday gifts. FREE! Darien Park District Community Center.

Darienparks.com.

Geneva Women's Club Annual Arts and Crafts Show – 11/10. Hand-crafted and unique items. 10AM-4 PM. Geneva High School. genevawomensclub.org.

Holiday Open House – 11/14 to 12/22. Weekend attractions include a Christmas tree parade, strolling carolers, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. 11 AM to 5PM Fri. and Sat. Noon to 5 PM Sun. Historic Long Grove. longgrove.org.

Jingle Mingle – 11/15. A festive parade through the Village Center starting at 6:30 PM. Burr Ridge. burr-ridge.gov.

Spot Shot Turkey Shoot – 11/16. Children and parents can showcase shooting skills from various spots placed around the basketball court. Prairie School, Buffalo Grove. bgparks. org.

Festival of Lights – 11/16-12/31. The lights go on nightly on the hour, choreographed to music. 5-9 PM. The Promenade, Bolingbrook. shoppingpromenade.com.

Santa House on the Riverwalk – 11/20 – 12/22. Take a magical trip to visit Santa on the Naperville Riverwalk at Jackson Avenue and Webster Street. Reservations needed. napervilleparks.org.

Winter Lights – 11/22. Kick off the holiday season with a festive parade along Downer Place, fireworks, and photos with Santa at Wyckwood House. Visit nearby shops at a Winter Market featuring local artisans. 6-9 PM. Free. Aurora. auroradowntown.org.

Shades of Crimson Poinsettia Display & suburban family | subfam.com

Sale – 11/22. Visitors are invited to the Cantigny Greenhouse to enjoy 15 or more varieties of poinsettias (3,000-plus poinsettias) all grown on site from cuttings. Plants will be available for sale. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Tree Lighting and Gingerbread Festival – 11/22-24. Countdown to the lighting of the tree on Friday during the two-day festival to shop, sample and kick off the holidays. Downers Grove. events.downers.us.

BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival – 11/22-23. Disney-themed light parade with floats, marching bands and performers. The Magnificent Mile, Chicago. themagnificentmile.com.

Happy Holiday Railway Santa Trains – 11/23-24, 11/29-30, 12/1, 12/7-8, 12/14-15 and 12/20-23. All Aboard for the North Pole. Santa, hot chocolate and cookies on train. Illinois Railway Museum. Union, IL irm.org.

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum – 11/23-1/5. View 50 acres of majestic trees glowing with special effects and events along a wooded, one-mile path. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. mortonarb.org.

Annual Tree Trim at Brookfield Zoo – 11/2324. Families and groups can sponsor a tree to decorate that will be on display at Brookfield Zoo for the holiday season. 10 AM-4:30 PM. Brookfield. Register for a tree now at CZS.org/ TreeTrim.

Higher Grounds Coffee Company Holiday Craft Fair - 11/23. Find a unique gift for that special someone at one of our many artists tables. 8 AM – 2 PM and Higher Grounds Coffee Company, Lemont. highergroundscoffeecompany.com.

Holiday Lights at Mooseheart – 11/23 – 12/31. Over 1.8 miles of beautiful lights.

November/December 2019

Crafts, games, hot cocoa and cookies. 5-9 PM. Mooseheart Child City and School, Mooseheart. enjoyaurora.com.

Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop – 11/25. Create a fresh holiday arrangement for your home with expert instruction. Bring a wire cutter and hand pruner plus a tray to carry creation home. All other materials provided. 6:30-8 PM. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Festival of Lights Parade – 11/29. Parade with Santa, lights, music, pageantry. 2019 Theme: A Dr. Seuss Christmas. 7 PM. Downtown Crystal Lake. downtowncl.org.

Aurora Festival of Lights – 11/29-12/26. One of the biggest and best light displays in the area during the holiday season. This dazzling drive through show—open for a full month— attracts over 20,000 visitors. Fri-Sat 5-10 PM; Sun-Thurs 5-9 PM. Phillips Park, Aurora. aurorarotary.org.

Holiday Homecoming – 11/29-30: Lighting of Lights on First Street Plaza on Friday, 5 PM. Music, holiday movies, sleigh rides, lighted parade, Santa's House and live holiday window displays. Main Street, St. Parade starts at 5:30 PM. Charles. downtownstcharles.org.

Holiday Walk – 11/29. An annual tradition since 1975. Countdown to tree lighting, visits with Santa for kids, music, local merchants offer refreshments. 6-8:30 PM. Glen Ellyn. glenel-

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lynchamber.com.

Light Up the Holidays Festival and Parade – 11/29. Parade, fireworks, tree lighting and activities presented by local businesses. 10 AM-7 PM. Downtown Joliet. jolietdowntown.com.

Lincoln Park ZooLights – 11/29 -1/5. This free event transforms Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland complete with visits from Santa, ice sculptors, festive activities and sweet treats of all kinds. Enjoy Light Maze, Holiday Market and special events. Chicago. Lpzoo. org.

Festival of Lights and Tree Sales – 11/2912/30. Cosley Zoo is transformed with 20,000 twinkling lights, spectacular displays, a selection of Christmas trees for purchase, hot chocolate and gifts. 9AM-9 PM daily. Wheaton. cosleyzoo.org.

Little Friends Holiday Parade of Lights – 11/29. Bundle up and enjoy an evening of festivities, brightly lit floats and musical entertainment! Parade at 7 PM. Visit with Santa after parade. Downtown Naperville. downtownnaperville.com.

Fox Valley Nutcracker – 11/30-12/1 Showcasing professional dancers, the performance features local dancers ages 5 to adult from 20 different dance studios. Tickets. Batavia Fine Arts Center, Batavia. foxvalleynutcracker.com.

Holly Days Opening Ceremony – 11/30.

Month-long festival in Downtown Westmont

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starts with the Frosty & Friends Parade, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, downtown business open houses, treats and more. Westmont. hollydaysfestival.com.

Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic – Sat and Sun, 11/30-12/1, 12/7-8, 12/14-15, 12/21-22, and Thurs-Tues, 12/26-31. Chicagoland’s Largest and Longest Running Lights Festival with over One-Million LED Lights, a 41-Foot Talking Tree, a Skating Rink, Ice Carvers, and Much More!

Brookfield. CZS.org/Events.

DECEMBER Cantigny Brunch with Santa – 12/1. Enjoy a fantastic brunch spread while enjoying a face painter, balloon artists and a family picture with Santa. 10 AM and 12:30 PM seatings. Red Oak Room at Cantigny Golf, Wheaton. Reservations. cantigny.org.

JingleBell Jubilee – 12/1. Come see beautiful holiday lights, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, hear stories, listen to carolers, drink hot cocoa, and much more! Lombard. lombardparks.com.

Celebration of Lights – 12/1. Enjoy activities for the whole family including hayrides, holiday craft activities, a community sing-a-long, visits with Santa! FREE. 5- 7 PM. Batavia Riverwalk. Bataviaparks.org.

Sugar & Spice - 12/2. Fun and Festive Holiday Fundraiser with Boutique Shopping, Hors-

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d'oeuvres, deserts, Holiday martinis, Split the Raffles. Drury Lane, Oak Brook. 5-9 PM. oakbrookchapterinfantwelfare.org.

Holiday Market at Lincoln Park Zoo – 12/3.

One-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list - all illuminated by the glow of ZooLights. An event for all ages. 6:30-10 PM. Chicago. Lpzoo. org.

Mistletoe Medley – 12/3. 9:30 AM – 3 PM. Annual luncheon and fashion show, boutique shopping and raffle. Benefits Oak Brook Infant Welfare Society. 9:30 AM-3 PM. Oak Brook. Reservations oakbrookchapterinfantwelfare.org.

Holiday Bedtime Stories – 12/3 and 12/5.

Bring PJs, a stuffed toy and blanket for a night of Christmas songs, stories and cookies and milk with Mrs. Claus with a surprise visit from Santa.

Barrington Park District. Register barringtonparkdistrict.org.

Holiday Housewalk – 12/5 - 12/7. Holiday houses on tour in Oak Park and River Forest.

Benefits OPRF Infant Welfare Society. The Nineteenth Century Club, Oak Park. 708-848-0528 ext. 235.

Holiday Market – 12/5 - 12/7. Shop one-of-akind artisan vendors offering unique gift items: jewelry, clothing, gourmet food, home décor and more. Benefits OPRF Infant Welfare Society. Oak Park. 708-848-0528 ext. 235.

Lambs Farm Holiday Lights Gift and Craft Fair – 12/5-8. Thu 1-9 PM, – Fri 11 AM – 9 PM,

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Sat 9 AM - 6 PM, Sun 10 AM – 5 PM. Arlington International Racecourse, Arlington Heights. holidaylightslambsfarm.com.

Cup of Cheer – 12/5-6. Naperville Garden Club’s 58th Annual House Walk, Holiday Market & Tea. napervillegardenclub.org.

One of a Kind Holiday Show – 12/5 – 12/8.

More than 600 independent makers will set up shop at the 19th annual Holiday Show held at The Mart. Chicago. oneofakindshowchicago. com.

Holiday Housewalk & Market – 12/5-12/7.

Tour 5 decorated homes in Oak Park and River Forest. Oak Park. childrenscliniciws.org.

Wintersong 2019 - 12/6 6:30 PM and 12/7 3:00 PM. Enjoy the performance of The Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale and accompanying chamber orchestra as they celebrate the season with music and song. College Church.

Wheaton. gewchorale.org.

Jolly Old St. Nick Concert – 12/6. Ring in the holiday season with Elmhurst’s annual celebration of the city’s German roots. Concert, St. Nick pictures, hot chocolate and sweets. 6:308:00 PM. Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, Elmhurst. elmhursthistory.org.

Hanover Park Tree Lighting Ceremony – 12/6. Santa, hot chocolate bar, live reindeer, horse and carriage rides on a lighted luminary path, arts/crafts, choirs and an indoor snowball fight. 6 – 8 PM. Hanover Township Community Center. hanoverparkillinois.org.

Holiday Walk & Festival of Windows – 12/6.

Live window displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa and reindeer, face painting and shopping. 6-9 PM. Madison Street in Downtown Forest Park. exploreforestpark.com.

Holiday Market and Parade – 12/6 6-9 PM; 12/7-8 12 – 5 PM. Tree lighting, Toyland Parade, Parade of Lights, children's crafts, market. Tinley Park. 708-444-5045. tinleypark.org.

Annual Hinsdale Christmas Walk – 12/6.

Holiday open house and celebration. 5-8 PM. Hinsdale. hinsdalechamber.com.

Christmas Walk – 12/6. Festivities include the arrival of Santa Lucia, the lighting of the tree, carolers, a live nativity and free carriage rides.

6-9:30 PM. Downtown Gevena. genevachamber.com.

Pizza with Santa – 12/6. Pizza, soda, craft, games, bounce house. Children of all ages with an adult. Register by 12/2. 6:30-7:35 PM. Darien. Darienparks.com.

Cocoa Crawl - 12/6. Celebrate the winter season with some toasty hot cocoa as several participating venues fill up your custom mug.

Admission: $5 for ticket/$10 for mug. Various Venues in Downtown Aurora. auroradowntown.org.

Winter Wonderland and Hope for the Holidays – 12/6. Firefighters bring Santa on decorated, flashing vehicles. 6-9 PM. Edward Hospital Athletic and Event Center, Romeoville.

Romeoville.org.

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Naper Settlement's Yuletide Festival & Fair - Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays. 12/6-22. Experience the joy of the holiday season with live entertainment, local art and craft vendors, wintry food and beverages from local restaurants and breweries, and more! Admission is FREE! NaperSettlement.org/Yuletide.

Festival of Lights – 12/6-12/29. Visit the Museum at Old Town Park throughout the Festival of Lights for a seasonal holiday show.

Bloomingdale. Bloomingdaleparks.org.

Santa on Broadway – 12/7,12/14, 12/21. Visit with the jolly bearded man on Saturday afternoons in December at shops along Broadway.

Free. Aurora. auroradowntown.org.

Candy Cane Hunt – 12/7. Dress warm & bring a basket to hunt for your goodies. A visitor from North Pole, too. 10 AM Community Park Bandshell, Lisle. Register. lisleparkdistrict.org.

Skating with Santa – 12/7. Celebrate the season and skate with Santa, Anna and Elsa.12 1PM. Rocket Ice Arena, Bolingbrook. Napervilleparks.org.

The St. Nick’s Mart – 12/7. Come shop the wares of local crafters, independent consultants and small Villa Park businesses. 5 - 8:30 PM. Villa Park Public Library, Villa Park. vppl. info.

Celebrate the Season Holiday Festival – 12/7. Mistletoe Market, horse-drawn trolley rides, face painting, crafts and the whole park will be decorated for the holidays. 1-7 PM. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Spirit Village - 12/7. Help those in need while having a fun family day with balloons, facepainting and a petting zoo. 10 AM- 3PM. Christ Church Downers Grove, Lombard. christchurch.us.

Frosty Fest – 12/7. Activities include caroling, dance performances, holiday displays, cookie decorating, free hot cocoa, live ice sculpture carving, live reindeer, arts and crafts projects, visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus. West Chicago.

Westchicago.org.

LaGrange Hometown Holiday – 12/7. Carolers, ice sculptures, petting zoo and pony rides, free trolleys - and dozens of lively merchant open houses. Downtown LaGrange. 3-8 PM. lgba.chambermaster.com.

The Nutcracker – 12/7. Local dancers and actors share the stage with seasoned professionals from the Chicago Ballet Conservatory to create an elaborate production. 2 PM. Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin. cbcn.nutcracker. com.

Mistletoe Market – 12/7. Visit the festive displays of crafters and artists offering one-of-akind items for holiday gift giving. 1-7 PM. Visitors Center, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny. org.

Christmas in the Valley – 12/7. Celebrate the holidays at Spring Valley's Heritage Farm.

Noon – 4 PM. Schaumburg. parkfun.com.

Lights of Lisle – 12/7-8. Thousands of lumi20 out & about

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narias, tree lights and storefront decorations transform downtown into a magical place.

Lisle. villageoflisle.org.

Once Upon a Christmas – 12/7-8. An annual event held at the Lisle Station Park's Museum Campus. Children's crafts, brick oven baking, blacksmithing and ice carving. 3- 8 PM Saturday and 11 AM – 4 PM Sunday. lisleparkdistrict. org.

Candlelight at the Inn – 12/7-8. Experience 1840s winter travel and tavern hospitality like travelers to the Garfield's in their 1846 brick inn. Hospitality, refreshments, live music, and a bake sale in the Burr House. 3-7 PM. Campton Hills. garfieldfarm.org.

Brunch with the Grinch – 12/7 and 12/14. Feast on a Grinch-themed buffet along with a viewing of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The Grinch himself will make an appearance. 10 AM and 12:30 PM seatings. Red Oak Room at Cantigny Golf, Wheaton. Reservations. cantigny.org.

Donuts with Santa – 12/7. Drink hot chocolate, decorate donuts and hear a story as told

by Santa. 9-10 AM or 10:30-11:30 AM. Register.

Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Center, Naperville Park District. napervilleparks.org.

Howliday Jingle Paws Vendor Show – 12/7.

Bring your pet for a photo with Santa, holiday shopping, giveaways and raffles. Benefits A Tail of 4 Paws Animal Rescue. 9 AM- 2 PM. Edward Hospital Athletic and Event Center, Romeoville. facebook.com/events/ Ugly Sweater Holiday Party – 12/7. Have an evening of holiday fun decorating a sweater you supply. Play games and decorate cookies.

Ages 11-15 years. 6 – 8 PM, Itasca Park District. itascaparkdistrict.com.

McCormick House Holiday Concert 2019 12/8. Wheaton College artists perform a variety of holiday music in the McCormick House’s historic Freedom Hall, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Candy Cane Train – 12/8. Travel from the Metra Train Station on Deerfield Road to meet Santa and holiday friends. 1-3:30 PM. Deerfield Park District. Register deerfieldparks.org.

Annual Children's Holiday Party – 12/8.

Crafts, entertainment, music, refreshments and a visit from Santa. 2 – 4 PM. Hinsdale South High School. Willowbrook. willowbrookil.org.

Iceland Santa Skate – 12/8. Enjoy a family skate with Santa and his elves to holiday music. 2:30 – 4:00 PM. Iceland, Niles Park District. niles-parks.org.

November/December 2019

Christmas Train – 12/8. Take a ride on the Christmas City Express and discover the magic that occurs during the night. 3:15 PM or 4:25 PM. Jon Duerr Forest Preserve, Batavia. Bataviaparks.org.

Carol Fest – 12/8. 3 PM and 6 PM. Songs of the Christmas season with a large choir and orchestra. Christ Church Downers Grove, Lombard. christchurch.us.

Santa Splash – 12/8. Santa and his elves will be leading holiday themed games and activities in the pool. 1-3 PM. Bartlett Community Center. bartlettparkdistrict.

Kid Rock Holiday Sparkle – 12/10. Music and movement parent-child musical event with songs and activities with holiday theme and props. Ages 1-5 with adult. 10-10:45 AM. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. Register. Cantigny.org.

Westmont Holly Days Winter Ball – 12/13.

Dinner, dancing, live entertainment and silent auction. Open to all to attend. RSVP by 11/16.

Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook. 6:30 – 11 PM. hollydaysfestival.com.

Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm – 12/ 13 & 20; 12/ 7-8, 14-15 & 21-22. Take a magical ride on the Holiday Express train! Decorations, reindeer food bar, hay wagon rides. Blackberry Farm, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

Santa's Workshop – 12/13-14. Visit Santa's workshop to meet Santa and take photos.

Dogs welcome Friday. Holiday crafts will be

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available. Fri 5:30-8 PM and Sat 11 AM-1:30 PM. Itasca Park District, Itasca. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Christmas Lights Trolley Tours – 12/13-23. Illuminated tours of the LaSalle, Peru, Oglesby and Utica area to visit light displays on the fully enclosed trolley. 6-8 PM. Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center. starvedrocklodge.com.

Merry and Bright: A Victorian Christmas – 12/14. Victorian Christmas traditions, tour of the house and Victorian-era carolers. Visit with Santa. Snacks and hot cocoa available for purchase. New 2019: Tree decorating contest.

Register. 3-7 PM. Downers Grove Museum, Downers Grove. Dgparks.org.

Stocking Deliveries – 12/14. Santa makes a personal delivery at your home (park district area) with a stocking full of goodies. Winfield Park District. Register winfieldparkdistrict.com.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls Holiday Concert – 12/14-15. Bring the entire family and create joyful holiday memories together at this holiday sing-a-long. Sat 2:30 and 7 PM and Sun 2:30 PM. Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin. elginsymphony.org.

LEGO Train Show – 12/14-15. Northern Illinois LEGO Train Club presents the group's largest annual show. Please bring a new unwrapped toy for the Marine Toys for Tots. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Last Chance Craft Fair – 12/14-15. Art and

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Craft Fair with over 175 booths. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. craftproductionsinc.com.

Santa's Bedtime Stories – 12/15. Dress in pajamas and slippers and join Santa and his elves for some holiday fun. Ages 1-8. Community Center/Hickory-Oak, Woodridge. woodridgeparks.org. ’Tis the Season Holiday Concert – 12/15.Join in the spirit of the season with favorite holiday carols and popular songs by a full symphony orchestra. All ages. 2 and 4 PM. Wentz Concert Hall, Naperville. dupagesymphony.org.

ZooLights Monday Family Nights at Lincoln Park Zoo – 12/16, 12/23 & 12/30*. Fun-filled evenings includes activities for families with children. 4:30-9 PM. Lpzoo.org.

Holiday House Decorating Tour – 12/17-18.

Travel around Schaumburg to see the sights and lights of houses decorated for the holidays. 6 – 8:30 PM. Schaumburg Park District. parkfun.com.

Holiday Trolley Express – 12/20. Take a festive trolley ride, hear the story of the Polar Express, sing carols, enjoy refreshments, and visit with Santa. 5 - 8 PM. Register Carol Stream Park District. csparks.org.

A Christmas Carol Radio Show – 12/21. “A Christmas Carol” presented as a 1940s-radio show. Join us for the retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to find his holiday. 3 PM and 5 PM. Registration. McCormick House Freedom Hall, Cantigny. Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

Holly Jolly Trolley – 12/20-21 - Bring the family on a magical train ride to enjoy a story, caroling, milk and cookies and a very special guest! Roselle Metra Station. Bloomingdaleparks.org.

Itty Bitty New Year’s – 12/28. Ring in the new year with dancing, crafts and a countdown to noon. Age: 2-6 with adult. Registration. 10 AM – 12 PM. Lisle Recreation Center, Lisle. lisleparkdistrict.org.

Teenie Weenie New Year's Eve Ball – 12/30.

Dance to the music with a DJ; games, crafts and snacks. Ages 1-5 with adult. 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Simkus Recreation Center, Carol Stream. csparks.org.

Wild New Year's Eve Celebration – 12/31.

Celebrate New Year's Eve early to meet the animals and share a toast. All ages with adult. 11 AM – 12:15 PM. Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, St. Charles Park District. stcparks.org.

DuPage Children’s Museum NYE – 12/ 31.

Ring in the New Year with a countdown to Noon celebration. 10:00 – 11:30 AM. DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville. dupagechildrens.org Happy Noon Year – 12/31. Kids will enjoy games, music, balloon drop and sparkling grape-ice toast. 11:00 AM-12:15 PM. Pre-registration is required. Community Rec Center.

Wheeling. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

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Overshadowed Theatrical Productions Holiday Inn November 29 - December 21, 2019 Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin.

Based on the film from Universal Pictures.

Book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge.

This crowd-pleasing, classic romance is sure to delight audiences of all ages—featuring thrill-ing dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including “Blue Skies,” “Steppin’ Out With My Baby,” and “White Christmas.”

New this year...we have two additional performances to our Christmas production. First, we have added a matinee performance on the Saturday of opening weekend. Second, we have added another show on Tuesday, December 17.

Performing at 900 Foster Avenue in Medinah, Illinois. For tickets call the box office at 630-634-2100 or visit our website at overshadowed.org. We can’t wait to share the holidays with you! [See our ad on the Inside Front Cover.]

James Lumber Center!

Ruth Page Civic Ballet’s THE NUTCRACKER triumphantly returns to the James Lumber Center!

A little girl heroine.A mysterious godfather.An enchanted nutcracker. A magical night. Ruth Page Civic Ballet’s The Nutcracker, the popular recreation of the holiday classic, comes to the mainstage of the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts at the College of Lake County for two performances only on Saturday, December 14, at 1 and 5 p.m. Originally presented at Chicago’s Arie Crown Theatre from 1965 until 1997, this production recreates Ruth Page’s beautiful and beloved original full-length staging. Experience the exquisite dancing, stunning costumes and magical settings in the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets like never before — engaging entertainment for young and old alike!

Ticket prices are $25/$20 for adults; $24/$19 for seniors; $15 for students and teens; and $10 for children. Prices do not include an additional $2 per ticket facility fee. Tickets can be purchased at the JLC Box Office on the Grayslake Campus, Room P112, 19351 W. Washington St, open Monday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. or by calling (847) 543-2300.

To purchase single tickets online, visit www. clcillinois.edu/tickets.

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Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series Join the Fermilab Arts & Lecture Series for two great family events - Children of Metropolis: Scrap Arts Music (November 9) and Christmas at the Silent Movies - Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra (December 14). Scrap Arts Music is a high-octane, choreographed percussion spectacle with rolling instrument sculptures made entirely of recycled scrap. Special student price of $10 with the promo code SCRAP. Enjoy Christmas the old-fashioned way, with live ragtime accompaniment to classic holiday silent films by Laurel & Hardy, Buster Keaton and the first film adaptation of The Night Before Christmas.

All at Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk & Pine Street, Batavia. events.fnal.gov/artslecture-series or 630/840.ARTS. [See our ad on Page 3.]

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Drury Lane Theatre

PRESENTS

CHOICE OF 3 SHOWS ON 2 WEEKENDS Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Dec 7 Dec 14 Dec 14 2pm 2pm 7pm WITH SPECIAL GUESTS:

Midwest Crossroad Chorus, Affinity Strings, Chicago Bronze And much more… *GREAT NEW LOCATION*EASY PARKING*

Living Water Community Church 190 Lily Cache Ln, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 FOR TICKET INFORMATION:

westtowns.org/shows_events/ OR (630) 201-5544

TICKETS $25 ($27 AT THE DOOR) STUDENTS W/ID: $17 CHILDREN 12 & UNDER $15

“It’s a jolly holiday with…” Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins at Drury Lane Theatre! Everyone’s favorite nanny flies to the stage November 15, 2019 – January 19, 2020. Based on the stories by P.L. Travers and the beloved Walt Disney film, this “practically perfect” musical is fun for the entire family.

Tickets start at $60 and are on sale now – and if you’re still doing your shopping, they make a “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” gift! Call or visit the box office or visit DruryLaneTheatre.com to get your tickets today!

Have a magical day out at the Spoonful of Sugar Tea before the matinee performance of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins on January 4 and 11. Kids of all ages will love the magic show and decorating their very own kite. For more information or to make reservations, visit LucilleRestaurant. com or call (630) 530-8300.

Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences presents A Christmas Carol November 29-December 23, 2019. The 60-minute holi-

day classic is appropriate for all ages. Tickets start at $20 and are on sale now. Call or visit the box office or visit DruryLaneTheatre.com to get your tickets today!

(630) 530-0111 | 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 | DruryLaneTheatre.com

Magic of the Holiday Season The Dancing Horses Theatre – located 10 minutes west of Lake Geneva Open all year round!

Discover what everyone is talking about. For a perfect day of family entertainment, and to enjoy the Magic of the Holiday Season, visit The Dancing Horses Theatre. Music, costumes, and holiday lights grace the entire Theatre from November to January. It is a “must see” for any horse lover as well as all those looking for a unique destination. www. thedancinghorses.com or call 262-728-8200.

Tickets are $32.50 for over 2 hours of spectacular entertainment!

West Towns Barbershop Chorus Put the Annual West Towns Barbershop Chorus Christmas show on your calendars!

You’ll have three opportunities over two weekends to see Chicagoland’s premier men’s four-part harmony a cappella chorus with special guests Midwest Crossroads Chorus and many more! What better way to kick your holiday season off then with the songs from your childhood? December 7, 2:00pm, December 14, 2:00pm & 7:00pm at Living Water Community Church, 190 Lily Cache Ln, Bolingbrook. For tickets or information visit www.westtowns.org or call (630) 201-5544 The West Towns Chorus is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization on a mission to Change Lives Though Song.

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November/December 2019

Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra Celebrating our 70th Anniversary Season The Elgin Symphony Orchestra is continuing the Elgin holiday tradition with our annual Deck The Halls Holiday Concert. This community sing-a-long filled with your classic holiday favorites is complete with the Soprano Katelyn Lee, the Elgin Master Chorale, Dancewear’s, and a special visit from the man himself – SANTA CLAUS! Conducted

by Stephen Squires, this is a concert for the whole family. Performances are December 14th @ 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM and December 15th @ 2:30 PM at the Hemmens Cultural Center. Purchase tickets at ElginSymphony. org or by calling 847-888-4000.

The Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts offers two timeless shows for families this holiday season, beginning with Schaumburg Dance Ensemble’s full-scale production of The Nutcracker. A corps of professional dancers leads a large cast in Tchaikovsky’s magical ballet, following the dreamlike adventures of a young girl who, guided by a magical Nutcracker Prince, encounters leaping Russians, waltzing flowers, twirling snowflake maidens and more. Complete with live narration, grand sets and vibrant costumes,The Nutcracker plays for two weekends December 6 through December 15.

Then, classical and popular music of the season is performed by the award-winning Schaumburg Youth Symphony Orchestra at its 20th annual Presto! Holiday Concert on Saturday, December 21 at 3pm and 7pm. The Schaumburg Youth Choir joins the program, performing carols with the orchestra. For tickets, visit prairiecenter.org or call 847-8953600. The Prairie Center is located at 201 Schaumburg Ct., in Schaumburg.

Raue Center For The Arts Raue Center For The Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination for music, comedy theater, and more! Proud home to in-house nonprofit theatre company WILLIAMS STREET REPERTORY and all its programming! Raue Center strives to provide the arts for all and believes integrity, inclusion, and diversity make us better as an arts center.

Stop by and experience great entertainment, close to home! Located at 26 N. Williams Street, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. (815) 356-9212 | Box Office Hours: Tue–Fri: 2PM–6PM | Sat: 12PM–4PM | Sun & Mon: Closed. www.rauecenter.org 28 out & about

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celebrate

Celebrate the Season with Enjoyable Desserts

W

hether you’re huddled around the fireplace, gathered at the table or strolling through a winter wonderland, the holidays are all about enjoying pure and memorable moments with family and friends.

With all of the seasonal gatherings, you can certainly expect that almost any host or guest will attempt to provide a classic holiday treat for everyone to enjoy.

This year, you can give your traditional holiday bake a refreshing twist sure to spread all kinds of holiday cheer with this Enjoymint Peppermint Pie topped with Homemade Whipped Cream, which can be easily whipped up with less than 10 ingredients total.

Enjoymint Peppermint Pie Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

1 envelope unflavored gelatin 1/4 cup cold water 2 ½ cups DairyPure Heavy Whipping Cream, divided 8 ounces soft peppermint candy 1 chocolate cookie crust crushed peppermint candies, for garnish Soften gelatin in water; set aside.

In small saucepan over low heat, cook 1/2 cup whipping cream with candy until candy melts.

Add gelatin; mix well.

Whip remaining whipping cream. Let gelatin mixture cool and fold in whipped cream, reserving 1/2 cup for garnish.

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From pumpkin pies to gingerbread cookies and everything in-between, an option like DairyPure Heavy Whipping Cream can be a must-have kitchen staple this season, one you can feel good about knowing it’s sourced from trusted dairies.

For more recipes for the holidays and every day, visit DairyPure.com, and find DairyPure on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Pour into crust. Chill.

Before serving, top with reserved whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies.

Homemade Whipped Cream

2 tablespoons granulated or confectioners’ sugar 2 cups DairyPure Heavy Whipping Cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or liqueur In chilled glass bowl, add sugar to whipping cream. Using whisk or hand mixer, incorporate sugar into heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken, leaving visible trails. Continue to whip until soft peaks start to form.

Fold in vanilla extract or liqueur. Serve immediately or refrigerate and remix 1-2 minutes before serving.

-Family Features November/December 2019

Say Bye-Bye to

the Winter Blues!

Oak Brook Park District Parties and Event Services From year-round pool parties to quaint weddings and family gatherings, the Oak Brook Park District’s award-winning facilities and staff are available to make sure that your next event is a success! Please contact our team for additional details or reservations by emailing events@obparks.org or calling 630-6459554. www.obparks.org.

Celebrate the Holidays with Hollywood Blvd Cinema Celebrity Guest, Ugly Sweater Parties, Movie with Santa, Christmas Dueling Pianos, Throwback Holiday Classics and so much more!

Private Events rentals available also for Fundraisers, Holiday Parties & Corporate Events.

Contact Blvd today.

1001 W. 75th St. Woodridge IL 60517 www.

HollywoodBlvdCinema.Com

INDOOR PARTIES AVAILABLE ALL YEAR LONG!

Contact our team at 630-645-9554.

SAFARI LAND Villa Park, IL Safari Land is the ultimate, INDOOR amusement park, plus home of the largest yearround indoor roller coaster in Illinois. Open seven days a week, offering eight amusement rides, over 100 arcade games and 12 lanes of bowling. Ride wristband includes: Tilt-AWhirl, Bumper Cars, Merry-Go-Round, Monkey Jump, Soft Play Area, Max Flight Simulator, Roller Coaster & Kiddie Go-Karts. Free parking and a perfect spot for birthday parties!

For more information visit www.safarilandfun. com or call 630-530-4649.

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education central

HELP FOR YOUR CHILD WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES

By Dr. Deborah Ross-Swain & Dr. Elaine Fogel Schneider

A

ll parents want their kids to be successful, and kids want to be successful too.

But what happens when your perfectly well adjusted happy and confident preschooler becomes the kid who puts his head under his blanket and refuses to get ready for school? Or your daughter who used to love to see her preschool friends will not get out of the car at elementary school because she has so much anxiety about what will be expected of her when she gets inside her classroom, faced with reading, writing or math.

Too often a bright child with a learning difference feels stupid, dumb, and anxious, because they learn differently from their classmates.

Yet these children with learning differences are usually bright and often very intelligent. A learning difference is not a disorder, or a disability, it is just different. Learning differently is challenging for kids in school, for the teachers who are responsible for teaching them, and for parents, too.

Parents may intuitively know their child is bright. That is why it may become easy to say aloud, “Why don’t you try harder?” Your child doesn’t really need to try harder, what your child needs is to have others understand his/ 32 education central

her learning style and create learning opportunities that teach to his/her strengths and not to his/her weaknesses.

Every day children with learning differences show up at school and try to do what is expected of them. Their self-esteem may suffer tremendously as they notice that their classmates may are learning information easier than they are.The magical ingredient for raising kids to be confident and happy is success.

Parents can build success, confidence and joy in kids with learning differences, especially when you Go to Bat for your child.

Get to know your child’s learning styles and areas of talents. Observe them. Speak to your child’s teacher. Determine your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Be OK with your child having a learning difference.

Open the door to opportunities away from school to jump-start your child’s success.Your child can experience joy and confidence as he realizes his natural gifts and talents in fun and engaging activities, i.e., the arts, sports, Kids Clubs, Service Clubs, etc. Give your child a chance to “shine.”

Take the time to seek professionals and tutors who have experience with kids with learning differences. They can assess your child, develop intervention plans for success, strengthen their skill weaknesses, and develop a strategic plan for building your child’s academic and emotional success.

Orientate yourself to know your parent rights.You can request your child be assessed, by presenting in writing a signed request stating your concerns. Bring it to the school office. Before having a meeting with your child’s assessment team, read about the Individusuburban family | subfam.com

als with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and the 504 Accommodations. If your child isn’t found eligible for an Individual Educational Program IEP, and likely he won’t, be prepared to go the extra mile to ask to develop a school plan for your child using a 504 with accommodations.

Examples of accommodations can include someone reading aloud test questions, giving your child additional time to complete an exam, or sitting on a large therapy ball during class time, instead of on a standard chair.

Build a stellar team to support you while working on goals for your child’s success. Invite on your team a friend whose child may also have a learning difference, who has navigated the “terrain” and/or caring professionals, who know medical or educational systems.

Advocate for your child. You know your child best. You know how your child struggles each day, and the impact on his happiness and selfesteem. Advocacy is an ongoing process.

Keep focused on your goals. Assist others in understanding that confidence and joy are essential for all children’s overall well-being.

Take care of yourself, too. Making sure you take time to relax and re-energize is essential to you and to the well-being of your entire family.

All children deserve to experience confidence and joy. These practical strategies can lead your child to become a successful, confident and joy-filled learner, and you a joyful parent.

Drs. Swain and Schneider’s new book, Confidence & Joy: Success Strategies for Kids with Learning Differences (Crescendo Publishing,), provides parents and educators with tools to help children with learning differences realize lifelong success. confidencejoy.com.

November/December 2019

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education central 33

Manage ADHD at the Holidays

T

By James M. Lewis, MD

he joy of the holiday season can be lost when the stress of decorating, buying gifts, preparing meals and spending time with friends and relatives is added to the constant everyday responsibilities of parenting. This is especially true when the family includes a child, adolescent or adult with ADHD. With all of the seasonal gatherings, you can certainly expect that almost any host or guest will attempt to provide a classic holiday treat for everyone to enjoy. One solution within parental control is to develop a timetable of specific tasks to work through the holidays to manage transitions and minimize meltdowns with your ADHD child. It is important to revise and re- establish a routine for taking medication, going to bed, eating breakfast and controlling electronics use. The best holiday gifts to keep children with ADHD on track are: 1. MEDICATION: Although doses will always be modified during vacations, most parents find it helpful to give medications daily to manage the symptoms and problems ADHD in daily life as well as in school. This principle is especially important for long vacation trips, sleepovers and longer stays with a distant divorced parent. If the medicine is working correctly, most children, if asked, prefer to take it every day.

Autism Home Support Services Expert care that addresses your most pressing needs. Count on our specialized teams to help with non-compliance issues, sleep and feeding, behavior, socialization, and more. In addition, we provide proprietary tools for the most effective care plans and track the progress of your child – so you can see real results. It’s just one more way that we help children meet their full potential faster. Discover the AHSS difference at autismhomesupport.com or call 844-247-7222.

Eye Level Learning Centers Eye Level Learning Centers offer math and 34 education central

2. WAKE UP TIME: During the holidays, daily medication is typically given a few hours later in the morning because of “sleeping in” related to more physically active days and later bedtimes. It is best to keep your child on a daily wake-up time within no more that 1 to 2 hours within their regular school alarm time.This strategy eliminates the possibility of headaches, stomachaches or the uncomfortable sensation of rapid heartbeat that may temporarily occur when medication is missed and later restarted.

3. BREAKFAST: The timing of medication dosing is important to stabilize both the sleeping and eating habits of the child.

A regular high-calorie, protein-rich breakfast ensures that the child gets important calories. Weight loss or early afternoon headaches and stomachaches triggered by blood sugar shifts can be avoided if the child always eats breakfast at home.

4. SLEEP: A bedtime regimen that should be followed includes a quick bedtime snack to maintain weight, turning off all electronics at least one hour before bedtime. If needed, a low dose (3-5mg) of melatonin can be given at the same time. This natural

English programs focused on developing each child’s critical thinking and analytical skills. Eye Level is based on an educational philosophy in which students learn at their own pace. Each student receives an individualized program based on their ability, independent of age and grade. Through a small-step approach, students master foundational skills before advancing to complex topics, leading to increased interest and understanding of more challenging content.

Eye Level’s programs nurture self-directed learners who take initiative, form goals, and identify solutions – empowering them to take ownership of their learning. To learn more, visit www.myeyelevel.com. suburban family | subfam.com

hormone peaks around bedtime and will ease the transition into sleep even if there are no signs of sleepiness. Sleeping pills of any kind, including clonidine, have not been shown to be safe or effective for children with or without ADHD. 5. MORE SLEEP: There is strong evidence that light interferes with sleep onset, the most common sleep disorder for children and adolescents with ADHD. A darkened room works best along with the elimination of the screens of television or hand-held electronics. Although the TV is the most commonly used sleep aid, it can be a troublesome tradeoff for parents. The changes in contrast and volume interrupts sleep stages causing the child to awaken more often through the night. Sound machines on phone apps or fans are a better substitute.

Establishing and maintaining a good night’s sleep is essential.

6. COMMUNICATE WITH THE SCHOOL: The holidays mark only the halfway point of the school year and is a key time for a parent teacher conference to discuss the educational strengths and weaknesses of the child. Classroom success depends not only on the child, but on the personality and attitude of the teacher and on the challenging curriculum and social changes that predictably occur in transitions to 3rd grade, middle school and high school.

Keeping up these routines during the holidays can deliver the best present of all – a happy and peaceful holiday season and the promise of a better new year!

Dr. Lewis is board certified in Pediatrics and Neurodevelopment Disabilities at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University..

Here’s to You! LLC Here’s to You! LLC is a coaching resource designed for students and adults that need assistance in achieving goals and identifying ways to overcome challenges.

We offer customized coaching plans, online, and in-home services that include, but are not limited to: stress reduction, task initiation, focus/attention, organization, and time management. Whether you have been diagnosed as having a learning disorder or simply feel the need to strengthen your natural talents, we can help. We also offer Licensed Professional Counselor supervision. To learn more, visit herestoyoullc.com November/December 2019

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education central 35

family wellness

EAT YOUR WAY TO A GREAT NIGHT’S SLEEP

By Dr. Bill Miller

W

ho has not had a restless night’s sleep? Everyone does on occasion, but for many, it is an increasingly frequent experience. The typical explanation is the unparalleled distractions of our modern lifestyle. We email compulsively, text our friends at all hours, and binge watch TV. Consequently, our sleep suffers. Studies show that the average amount of sleep that Americans currently get has fallen by between one and two hours each night over the last 60 years. Furthermore, the quality of that sleep has deteriorated. Some research even suggests that our irregular sleep patterns have led to a ‘dream’ deficit that also takes its own individual toll over time.

cidences of heart disease, diabetes, weight gain and cancer. Many of us realize this and struggle to make adjustments. We experiment with changing our caffeine or alcohol intake or, in desperation, some turn to sleeping pills.

The crux of the issue is that there are significant health problems associated with sleep disorders that go beyond feeling tired the next day. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with higher in-

This continuous feedback between our gut and brain significantly modulates our responses to stress. When that feedback is suboptimal, it begins a cycle that leads to-

36 family wellness

Most of us know from experience that there is some kind of link between our food intake and our sleep patterns. Sleep can be difficult if we are too full or extremely hungry. Yet, our busy lifestyle and the temptations of snack foods continuously get in the way. One thing is clear.

A good evening meal with sensible portions improves the prospect of a restful night of sleep.

We have long known that there are two fundamental states of sleep and each is regulated by a different part of the brain. Both are necessary for completely recuperative sleep.

We have a sleep cycle, called our ‘circadian rhythm,’ which is regulated by our brain and by metabolic cues governed by liver cells. All of these signals work together in a continuous feedback loop which is commonly called our ‘circadian clock’. New information adds a significant to factor to that mix. Our gut microbiome has a surprisingly crucial influence on our circadian sleep-wake cycle and our sleep quality. Experiments confirm that when specific microbes in our gut are altered, our fundamental states of sleep are disrupted.

This limits our ability to recover from stress and is necessary to protect against neurological diseases such as dementia. To assist in that recovery process, we now understand that our gut microbiome and our own cells form an active feedback loop and our sleep patterns are part of it.

suburban family | subfam.com

wards metabolic health disorders such as diabetes. Our sleep-wake cycle is part of this loop. Impaired sleep disrupts our metabolism and contributes to inflammatory states and metabolic diseases, which can, in turn, further disrupt our sleep. When our gut microbiome is off-balance our capacity to achieve restorative sleep is profoundly affected.

Here are four tips to start you on the path to a great night’s sleep: • Our microbes have internal clocks, just as we do. We are at our best when we find our optimal personal method of synchronizing and adjusting to each other. In effect, if you feed your microbes well, they will treat you right.

• Stick to a firm eating schedule and limit fat content. Both of these factors can improve sleep quality. There is an added benefit. These measures help with weight management, which is also mediated by the gut microbiome.

• Keep calories the same, but make your meals smaller and more frequent. Studies show that this improves sleep quality and metabolic parameters such as blood glucose or serum lipid levels.

• Try adding either prebiotics or probiotics to your diet. These offer your microbial partners the nutrients they need.

When you plan to get a good night’s sleep, you need to think of it as putting your microbes to bed. Feeding them properly is your best chance for normal recuperative sleep in the midst of our hectic modern lives.

For more information, www.themicrocosmwithin.com.

November/December 2019

Take Care of Yourself Try to exercise, eat healthfully, get enough sleep, and do things which call to your soul. For some that may be coloring, writing in a journal, taking a nature walk or reading a book; for others it may mean connecting with friends, getting a massage or seeing a movie. Grieving is hard work! It impacts us physically and cognitively, as well as emotionally and makes it harder for us to concentrate and remember things-so don’t forget to make time for YOU.

Surviving Holiday Grief

Have an Escape Plan If you are invited to a party, let the host know in advance that you may not stay the entire time. Consider driving yourself so you can leave if you feel trapped. Be willing to give up things which may be stressful, and give yourself permission to decide— or change your mind— at the last minute.

By Joanne Fink

W

ithout our loved ones the holidays aren’t the same. For most of us, holidays are hard for years after our loss.

Here are some tips for making this time of year less emotional, lonely and challenging.

Listen to Your Heart Embrace the holiday traditions you find meaningful; and feel free to create new traditions, especially ones which will keep your loved one’s memory and legacy alive. Don’t do more than you want and don’t do anything that does not feel comfortable, including decorating, making holiday dinners and sending out cards.

November/December 2019

Develop— and Train— a Support Network Being with people who care about us is healing, especially if they can say our loved one’s name and listen to us cry without trying to fix us, or fix the situation.

But many people are so afraid of saying the wrong thing or doing something to upset us that they often disappear right when we need them the most, which is hurtful. It’s up to us to be their teachers; don’t be afraid to reach out and let people know what you need and how they can help.

Focus on What You Have, Not What You’ve Lost While this is easier said than done, we can try to stay grounded in gratitude by looking for the blessings in every situation; being kind; seeking connection; reaching out in love and friendship to others; and celebrating our loved one’s legacy.

Joanne Fink is the author of ‘When You Lose Someone You Love.’

suburban family | subfam.com

family wellness 37

active kids

Rock ‘n’ Kids

org or call 630.960.7600 for more informa-

Calling all toddlers to sing, dance and play the

tion about our year-round programming for

Rock ‘n’ Kids way! Tot Rock and Kid Rock are

all ages and all abilities!

structured music and movement programs for children ages 1-5 that use a unique approach to music education! Since 1995, Rock ‘n’ Kids has been educating young children through imaginative play, sensory integration, fine and gross motor skills, and socialization. A variety of rhythm instruments and movement props are utilized and a new educational theme is implemented each session! Classes offered at park districts in the Chicago-land area. Mobile music and dance parties also available! www. rockitkids.com/847-961-6584.

Great Lakes Volleyball Center The GLCYA is accepting girls and boys ages 3-14 for the Great Lakes Center Youth Volleyball Academy Fall, 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. NEW in 2019-20 will be our GLC Elite Club program for 7th-10th grade girls. The Great Lakes Volleyball Center is located at 579 N. Oakhurst Drive, Aurora, IL. 60502. For more info call

SEASPAR

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ation association offering therapeutic recreation programs and services – including Special Olympics training and a multi-sensory room – for people with disabilities served by the park districts of Clarendon Hills, Darien, Downers Grove, La Grange, La Grange Park, Lemont, Lisle, Westmont, and Woodridge, and the villages of Brookfield, Indian Head Park, and Western Springs. Visit SEASPAR. 38 active kids

suburban family | subfam.com

November/December 2019

FITTING IN FITNESS

K

ids have an uncanny ability to get sick on the day you’re planning to hit the gym. Or, if you have multiple children, they rarely offer you the luxury of being sick at the same time. Instead they share.

Just like you taught them.

By Heather Lee Leap

before your partner heads off to work? Rather than one of you taking a whole day off from regular commitments, can one of you go in to work a little later? How about shifting duties in the evening? Have this conversation today so you can swing your plan into action on the next sick-day.

Break out the jog stroller - If your child is in the phase of illness when they seem fine

fitness first but could still be contagious, they may be happy to roll along.

Don’t feel bad about bundling up a little one, even with a slight fever.The fresh air will do you both good and you’ll get the exercise you crave.

Go Tech - Put your phone or computer to work by subscribing to an online fitness program or downloading an App such as FitX for iTunes. Apps and online subscriptions are available in a wide range of exercise styles and in varying lengths of time to fit your busy schedule. For starters, take a look at www. barre3.com; www.dailyburn.com or www.yogaglo.com.

Have faith in yourself- Dress in your sweats at the first whimper of childhood illness.When your little one drifts off to sleep you’ll be ready to drop to the floor for basic push-ups and crunches. Do a set of Sun Salutations in between wiping feverish brows.Who says you need a guide?

Don’t just wait for your kids to fall ill to try out your bag of last-minute fitness tricks. Furnace repair, a flooded basement and other surprises can throw you off you routine just as easily. Flexibility is the key to fitting-in fitness when life nudges you off your usual track.

As the parent-on-duty, you can end up inconvenienced for a day, or effectively trapped at home for a week. Chances are, despite every effort you make to keep your kids well, they will awaken some night soon with a stomach virus or ear infection. Or they will resist all your efforts to rouse them from bed in the morning, glassy eyed and pale with fever.

Too sick for school means too sick for child care at the gym. But too little exercise can raise the likelihood of parents getting sick, not to mention keeping you from achieving your fitness goals.

Sure, your preference might be your regular ninety minute yoga class or swimming laps at the community pool, but as a busy parent you need some spur-of-the-moment fitness options. We get locked into our routines and when those routines are interrupted, adding further stress to our day, the most exercise we are apt to get is throwing our hands up in the air in dismay.

If making spontaneous fitness choices is not one of you strengths, plan in advance to use one of these last-minute exercise options when life’s inevitable disruptions interrupt your plans.

Compromise - Can you fit in a walk or run November/December 2019

suburban family | subfam.com

fitness first 39

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.

The 2020 ANNUAL RACE GUIDE will be featured in the March/April issue.

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

NOVEMBER Cantigny 5K Sat. Nov 2 at 9AM Cantigny Park, Wheaton www.Cantigny.org SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Hot Cider Hustle 2-Day Event with 8-Mile Run and 5K Run/Walk. Wheaton. hotciderhustle.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K/5K Run and 2-Mile Walk.

Chicago. hotchocolate15k.com.

Ooh La La Chocolate Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk.

Geneva. oohlalachocolate5k.com

Nov. 28rd ~ Thanksgiving morning ~ 8:00 a.m.

5K run/walk, Family Discount Rates Chipped Time, USATF certified.• Bloody Mary station on route Hot Chocolate and post-race refreshments.

www.Roselle5K.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Gobbler Hobbler 10K and Mashed Potato Mile. Oswego. oswegolandparkdistrict.org.

Chill William’s Veterans Day 5K Run. Chicago. chillwillvets.org.

Polish Independence 10K/5K. Montrose Harbor, Chicago.

Wpna.fm

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Schaumburg Half Marathon and 5K. Schaumburg. schaumburghalfmarathon.com.

Rotary Club Ugly Sweater 5K. Westmont. westmontrotaryclub.org Grant Park Turkey Trot. Chicago. allcommunityevents.com

DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Run in the Dark. Downtown, Chicago. Runinthedark.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Kiwanis Santa Run. Crystal Lake. kiwanissantarunforkids.org

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Gobble Gobble, Run or Wobble 5K. Oak Lawn. Stlinusoaklawn.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Lion’s Club Reindeer Run 5K Run. Wheaton. wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Viking Dash Trail Run 15K, 10K, 5K and 13.1-Mile Races. 2-Day Event. Crystal Lake. vikingdashtrailrun.com.

Frosty 5K and Frosty Fest West Chicago. westchicago.org Santa Hustle 5K. Chicago. Santahustle.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run Sat 11/23 at 9 AM 5K Run/Walk Cantigny Park Wheaton www.jbr.org/westernsuburbs Turkey Trot 5K and Drumstick Dash. Addison. addisonparks.org Holiday Lights 5k. Mooseheart. support.moosecharities.org THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Roselle Annual Turkey Tango/Trot 5K Thurs, Nov. 28th at 8 AM Thanksgiving Morning 5K run/walk, Chipped Time, USATF certified.

Hot Chocolate and post-race refreshments.

Roselle, IL www.Roselle5K.com Noon Lions 5K Turkey Trot. Naperville Central High School. napervilleturkeytrot.com Chicago Turkey Trot 8K/5K Run and Kids’ Race. Chicago. turkeytrotchicago.com.

Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot 5K Fun Run. Elmhurst. dangib40 fitness first

bonsturkeytrot.org.

Long Grove Turkey Trot 8K/5K Run and Kids’ Dash. long groveturkeytrot.com.

McHenry Turkey Trot 5K Run. McHenry. mchenryturkeytrot.com.

North Shore Turkey Trot 10K and 5K Run. Highland Park. northshoreturkeytrot.com.

Bonfield Express 5K. Downers Grove. bonfieldexpress.com.

Winnetka Turkey Trot 5K. Winnetka. winnetkaturkeytrot.com Pilgrim Pie Run. La Grange. pilgrimpierun.com Beat the Bird 5K. Fullersberg Woods, Oakbrook. beatthebird.com

suburban family | subfam.com

Arlington Heights Annual Rotary Santa Run & Walk Sat. 12/7 at 10 AM 5K run, 1 mile walk & kids reindeer run.

Proceeds fund Community Grants Program.

Downtown Arlington Heights www.RotarySantaRun.org SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Insane Candy Cane 5K. Geneva. insanecandycane5K.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run Sat 12/14 at 9 AM 5K Run/Walk Chicago History Museum Chicago www.jbr.org/chicago Arctic Frog Endurance Run 50K, 25K and 15K Races.

Libertyville. froghopssports.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve 5K Run. Chicago. newyearseve5k.com.

November/December 2019

senior focus

SENIOR FOCUS H eart Healthy Tips for Seniors Leave The Legacy You Want Senior Living Resource Freebies for Seniors Grandpa Has Alzheimer’s SPONSORED BY… Alvernia Manor Aspired Living of LaGrange The Auberge At Naperville DuPage Medical Group Lemont Center Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic Seniors Helping Seniors Terra Vista of Oakbrook Terrace Villa St. Benedict November/December 2019

suburban family | subfam.com

fitness first 41

Heart Healthy Tips for Seniors

By Lisa Beach Show your heart some love! This is especially important as you age. Why? According to the National Institute on Aging, seniors face a greater risk of suffering a heart attack, having a stroke, or developing heart disease and heart failure. As a major cause of disability, heart disease can also restrict the activity and diminish the quality of life for people living with this condition.

While heart disease poses a greater health risk for seniors, it doesn’t make it inevitable as you age. In fact, a recent study found that, no matter what your age, it’s never too late to improve your health. The research, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, links a healthy lifestyle to decreased cardiovascular risk in seniors.

That’s great news because there are plenty of things you can do to prevent heart disease.

But before jumping into some solid, hearthealthy habits, get a quick refresher on what a heart attack or stroke looks like.

Be Symptom Savvy First, it helps to know how to spot the signs of heart disease. In the early stages, heart disease symptoms are either nonexistent or barely noticeable. This makes annual exams a must, allowing your doctor to ask questions and run tests, as needed.

But when heart disease progresses to the point of a heart attack or stroke, knowing the signs could help save your life. According to the American Heart Association, call 911 if any of these signs are present: Heart attack symptoms: • Chest discomfort or pain (usually in the center, lasting more than a few minutes) • Upper body discomfort (arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach) • Shortness of breath (with or without chest discomfort) • Other signs (such as a cold sweat, nausea, or light headedness) Stroke symptoms (remember F.A.S.T.): • Face drooping or numb on one side • Arm weakness or numb • Speech difficulty • Time to call 911 if person shows any of these symptoms ‍Heart-Healthy Habits Now that you’re savvy about symptoms, you can take preventive steps to reduce the chance of a heart attack or stroke occurring.

Follow these healthy lifestyle guidelines from the American Heart Association.

42 senior focus

1. Get active. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes per week of strenuous aerobic exercise. One of the simplest ways to do this? Walk more. Other aerobic activities include gardening, swimming, and tennis. If you can work in activity to increase flexibility, improve balance, and strengthen muscles twice a week, even better. Stuck for ideas?

Try yardwork (think raking leaves or pushing a lawnmower), bike riding, or yoga. Tip: Schedule exercise on your calendar, making it easier to stick to a routine. Strive for 30 minutes of exercise five days a week, or 2025 minutes of activity every day.

2. Eat better. Focus on eating mostly a plant-based diet, with whole fruits and veggies making up the bulk of the food you eat every day.When eating grains, choose a variety of whole grains such as barley, brown rice, bulgur, millet, oatmeal, and whole wheat. For dairy (i.e., cheese, milk, yogurt), opt for low-fat and fat-free. Consume heart-healthy proteins such as fish, skinless poultry, lean meat, eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes. When adding fats, choose polyunsaturated oils (such as sunflower and safflower oils) and monounsaturated oils (such as olive, peanut, and canola oils). Avoid saturated and trans fats such as those found in whole milk, butter, tropical oils, and processed foods such as cookies, cakes, and crackers. Tip: Limit salty foods, sugary drinks, sweets, and highly processed foods; drink plenty of water; and watch portion sizes.

3. Lose weight. Extra pounds can lead to a variety of health issues. Learning to move more and eat healthier helps you shed pounds and maintain a healthy weight. Keeping a food journal can help you see what you’re eating and how much. Tracking your exercise gives you a glimpse into the frequency and level of activity. Tip: Use tools to help you track your activity, such as a Fitbit, a fitness app on your cell phone (many are free!) or simply marking exercise on a calendar.

4. Control cholesterol. A fat-like substance, cholesterol comes from two sources--food from animal sources and your body.

The “good” cholesterol is HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and the “bad” cholesterol is LDL (low-density lipoprotein). The HDL is good because it helps reduce plaque buildup in arteries, partially caused by LDL sticking to suburban family | subfam.com

artery walls. Plaque buildup blocks blood flow, which can lead to heart disease. Ask your doctor about getting a blood test to measure your cholesterol level. Tip: Healthy lifestyle choices to control cholesterol include eating healthier, exercising, choosing healthy fats, and quitting smoking.

5. Manage blood pressure. Know your numbers and what they mean. Blood pressure records two values: systolic (the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between heart beats). It’s written similar to a fraction with the systolic number on top and the diastolic on the bottom.

Normal blood pressure is 120 (or less) over 80 (or less) and elevated blood pressure is 120-129 over 80 (or less).

High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) starts at 130 over 80 (or higher). Tip: Healthy lifestyle choices to manage blood pressure include eating healthier, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing the amount of sodium you eat.

6. Reduce blood sugar. Your body turns much of the food you eat into glucose (or blood sugar) to use for energy, so it’s important to make smart food choices. But if your blood sugar level is too high, it can damage your heart (and other parts of your body) and cause diabetes. Tip: Healthy lifestyle choices to reduce blood sugar include eating healthier, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking.

7. Stop smoking. If you smoke, you increase your chances of developing heart disease (and lung cancer). Quitting smoking should top your list of heart-healthy choices. The longer you smoke, the more damage you do to your body. The good news? Your body begins to heal itself as soon as you stop smoking. In just one year of quitting, you’ve cut your risk of heart disease by 50 percent! Tip: Make a plan to quit, whether that means going cold-turkey, cutting back gradually, using a nicotine replacement, or seeking help from a health provider. Visit Smokefree60+ for resources designed specifically for seniors. You’re never too old to quit!

Take steps today toward a healthier lifestyle with these seven heart-healthy habits.

November/December 2019

November/December 2019

suburban family | subfam.com

senior focus 43

Leave The Legacy You Want

A

By Jaime Cowper

lifetime of hard work may have rewarded you with a nice home and hefty bank accounts, but what happens to all those assets once you’re gone?

Maybe you want everything to go to the kids.

Perhaps a charity or a cause you champion should get a portion. And what happens if, before you die, your mental capacity diminishes and you can no longer make decisions for yourself?

Just thinking about your final wishes – or mentioning them to a close friend over coffee – isn’t enough.

Too many people don’t do the proper planning to make sure that any wealth they’ve accumulated over the years ends up where they want it to. Of course, that’s not going to cause any problems for the deceased because they’ll be gone. Those left behind, though, could end up feuding over property, paying more taxes than necessary, or just becoming stressed as

they try to put together the puzzle pieces of your estate.

But you don’t have to leave your heirs guessing about your intentions. You need to create an estate-management checklist to make sure everything is in order. And if you’re lacking with any item on the list, a financial professional can help steer you in the right direction.

• A will. This is perhaps the best known document for letting your final wishes be known, yet it’s not as widely used as you might assume. Just 36 percent of American adults have a will, according to a Rocket Lawyer estate-planning survey by Harris Poll. If you don’t have one, it’s time to remedy that.

It’s especially important to have a will if you have minor children because you can use the will to name a guardian for them, • Healthcare documents. Like it or not, as you near the end of your life you could reach a point where you’re no longer capable

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44 senior focus

of making medical decisions for yourself. The right documents can spell out your wishes for health care and you can also name someone to make the decisions for you if it comes to that. Documents you should consider include a living will, a power of attorney agreement and a durable power of attorney agreement for healthcare.

• Financial documents. Similar to the health situation, you can also outline your financial wishes and appoint someone to make financial decisions for you if you become unable to make decisions for yourself, Documents to consider include joint ownership, durable power of attorney, and living trusts.

• Beneficiary forms. In some cases, when you name a beneficiary for bank accounts and retirement plans, they automatically become “payable on death” to your beneficiaries. In other cases, you must fill out a form to make the accounts payable on death.Why is payable on death such an important distinction? The beneficiaries can get their money without the potential delays caused by probate.

Finally, make sure your heirs know where to find all of your important documents.

When you’ve done all this planning, you don’t want to leave your heirs searching through closets, attics and dresser drawers in search of your important papers,You won’t be there to guide them, so someone should know exactly where to look.

Jaime Cowper, president of Unity Financial Advisors (unityfinancialadvisors.net), is an Investment Advisor Representative under Alphastar Capital Management, an SEC Registered Investment Advisory Firm.

• First class dining experience offering the finest culinary cuisine

suburban family | subfam.com

November/December 2019

G! N I R HI E ’R WE

Quality Care for Seniors Who Want to Stay at Home IN-HOME SERVICE FOR SENIORS – BY SENIORS

The Support You Need from the People Who Understand You Best

Stay Independent With Essential Services Including: • Companionship • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping • Laundry Assistance • Errands and Transport • Doctor Appointments • Medication Reminders

• Personal Hygiene Grooming and Dressing • Mobility Assistance • Dementia Care • Respite Care • Light Yardwork • Overnight Stays …and more!

Licensed • Insured • Bonded

©2019 Each office is independently owned and operated. Prices and services may vary. E.O.E. All trademarks are registered trademarks of Corporate Mutual Resources Incorporated.

DuPage County 630-324-6086 shsillinois@comcast.net

November/December 2019

Will County 815-710-0005

shs.swchicago@gmail.com

Kane County 630-937-4246 shsfoxvalley@gmail.com

suburban family | subfam.com

Chicago Metro 312-526-3666 info@chicago.shs.com

senior focus 45

Alvernia Manor

Alvernia Manor Senior Living is the “Hidden Gem” that can ease your family’s concerns.

The Mission of this unique senior living community is to provide seniors a loving, safe and caring home. For over 45 years the School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King and their dedicated staff have cared for seniors as their own family with respect, love and concern. Family and friends refer Alvernia Manor as their “Hidden Gem”.

Alvernia Manor is located on a hilltop in Lemont, IL. With its beautiful bluff location, the vivid colors of the four seasons are played out annually in panoramic view. Residents can relax in the privacy of their room or spend spiritual time in the Chapel. Keeping a resident’s body and mind healthy and active is the goal the Sisters and staff strive for. Games, exercise, movies, bingo, shopping trips and entertainment are among the many activities on its monthly activity calendar.

Alvernia Manor’s healthcare staff ensures resident’s medications are dispensed, vitals taken and daily health monitored. Fresh meals are prepared daily and all housekeeping needs attended to. All this adds up to no more worries for you. In addition, Adult Day Services or Short Term Stay are other available option.

Loved ones receive the care and recreation they need in a safe environment while caregivers go to work or get a much needed break.

Come see for yourself all Alvernia Manor offers. To find out more about this “Hidden Gem” call 630.257.7721.

The Auberge at Naperville

Auberge at Naperville is a specially designed community serving needs of individuals and their loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. Through our Life Enrichment program, a Montessori-inspired philosophy for care, we create a specialized, life enriching environment that affords each individual maximum self- expression. Our staff is committed to delivering a quality of care that meets our residents physical, social, spiritual and emotional needs. In addition to our Life Enrichment program we also offer Genesis Rehab Services who provide: 46 senior focus

• Onsite outpatient clinics providing PT, OT and ST services Mon-Fri • Evidence based rehabilitation programs including Balance in Action® (BIA) Fall Risk Management Program, Otago Exercise Program, Dementia staging using the GDS scale, LSVT BIG and LOUD and GRS pain management • Above industry average outcomes including exceptionally low fall rate due to proactive wellness checks and functional rehabilitation and very low re-hospitalization rate <4% It can be different…let us show you how Contact us for a tour – 630-778-9221 or, marketing@aubergenaperville.com.

1936 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 www.aubergenaperville.com

DuPage Medical Group

At DuPage Medical Group, our patients often approach us with questions regarding Medicare coverage and which plans might be right for them. One such option is Medicare Advantage, which can offer improvements in both cost and overall care.

What are some of the extended benefits?

Medicare Advantage plans offer the same coverage as traditional Medicare, plus additional features through Medicare-approved private companies. Coverage under Medicare Advantage plans often includes preventive care and wellness services such as disease prevention, chronic care management and even gym memberships. Dental and vision coverage are also common features included in Medicare Advantage plans. Lastly, most Medicare Advantage policies include Medicare prescription drug coverage (also known as “Part D”) and do not require Medigap (supplemental) coverage.

Who are good candidates?

Medicare Advantage can be the perfect solution for seniors looking to take more control of their health through expanded healthcare services. Medicare Advantage policyholders secure coverage for a number of services which would not be deemed “medically necessary” under traditional Medicare plans, potentially offering them more peace of mind when it comes to their health. suburban family | subfam.com

How does it work?

Each Medicare Advantage plan operates a little differently, making the options more flexible. However, Medicare Advantage costs also change on an annual basis depending on factors like copayments, deductibles, plan network policies and charges for extra benefits.

When is a good time to consider plans?

We encourage patients to discuss health care decisions with their family members and meet with a licensed insurance agent to compare their plan options. Since Medicare costs and plan benefits do change every year, it's important to review how these fluctuations may impact your health care the following year.

DuPage Medical Group helps coordinate Medicare education seminars at many of our offices. To learn more, visit https://www.dupagemedicalgroup.com/medicare.

Lemont Center

Lemont Nursing and Rehabilitation offers a comprehensive, post-acute rehabilitation program to help individuals return home following an injury or illness. At Lemont Center, you’ll receive one-on-one therapy designed to help improve function, restore mobility, regain balance, strengthen muscles and recover both quickly and thoroughly. Lemont offers private rehab suites with private bathrooms for our short term rehab patients. Our dedicated group of staff and volunteers bring feelings of community to our customers through a variety of innovative, hands-on programs. Call today to see why Lemont Center is rated 5 stars by CMS! (630)243-0400 or visit our website at www.lemontcenter.com.

Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic

The Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic in Downers Grove offers a comprehensive, patient-centered healthcare experience for seniors at the Dental Institute, Family Medicine Clinic, Speech-Language Institute, Physical Therapy Institute, and Eye Institute.

You will receive exceptional care from a team of highly qualified faculty and graduate-level students. The Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic Institute is located at 3450 November/December 2019

Our Auberge Community

Life Lives Better at Auberge of Naperville Auberge at Naperville is a specially designed community serving the needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. With our Life Enrichment program, a Montessori-inspired philosophy for care, we create a specialized, life-enriching environment that affords each individual maximum self-expression. The staff is committed to delivering a quality of care that meets the resident’s physical, social, spiritual and emotional needs.

It can be different…let us show you how.

Some of our features are: • Montessori-Based Programming • 24/7 Nursing • Respite Care • On-Site Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

Call For a Tour

630-778-9221

1936 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563

www.aubergenaperville.com

@aubergenaperville marketing@aubergenaperwille.com

What can our family do for your family?

Alvernia Manor offers Independent and Assisted Living, Short Term Stay, and Adult Day Services. Learn more about us, and take a tour of our beautiful surroundings.

Call us at 630.257.7721 Alvernia Manor 13950 Main Street Lemont, Illinois 60439

Call to schedule a tour or visit our website at www.alverniamanor.org

November/December 2019

suburban family | subfam.com

senior focus 47

Lacey Road, Downers Grove, IL 60515. For more information, visit our website at www. mwuclinics.com or call 630-743-4500.”

Seniors Helping Seniors

Senior citizens can sometimes feel that they are a burden when they ask family or friends for help, but often have no trouble reaching out to someone their own age.

For over 10 years in the Chicagoland area, Seniors Helping Seniors Home Care, www.

SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com, has provided in-home services, and matching seniors who need help with engaging, local seniors who can provide the assistance.

The care providers are excellent communicators, with background checks, auto safety checks and training so that they can best help with things like companionship, hygiene and personal care, transportation, light housekeeping, meal preparation, and medication reminders, and just about anything non-medical that might help someone to thrive in their home.

“Seniors Helping Seniors provides seniors with the ability to live an independent lifestyle at home, with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said Dan Rattary, Client Relations Director. “And now we provide free home care to lower-income, qualified, veterans or their spouses! It is a wonderful program to secure the Aid and Attendance Benefit that our veterans have earned and now need.”

The organization provides a wonderful, flexible income opportunity for active adults who wish to help others in their community.

If you know someone who needs a little help or a lot, or if you are interested in becoming a caregiver and you are over the age of 45, please contact Seniors Helping Seniors at (630) 324-6086 (DuPage County), (815)710-0005 (Will County), (630)9374246 (Fox Valley/Kane), (312)526-3666 (North/Central Chicago)

Terra Vista of Oakbrook Terrace

Welcome to Terra Vista of Oakbrook Terrace, an award winning memory care community centrally located in the western suburbs that is 100% dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

At Terra Vista of Oakbrook Terrace—an innovative and secure memory care assisted living community—we’re here for you and your loved one. 100% of our staff members are trained in the best practices of caring for residents with Alzheimer’s. Our community features barrier-free paths instead of stressinducing segregated units, brain-stimulating programming, and innovative security and care, all of which is included in our all-inclusive rate.

We’re here for you, too, with comprehensive resources that include expert-led support groups, personal consultations, and educational programs.

Come learn why more than 40% of our residents come from other facilities. For more information or to schedule a tour with one of our memory care experts call 630-534-0886.

Or visit our website for more information at www.terravista.org.

Villa St. Benedict

A Community with a History. Villa St. Benedict is a boutique senior living community in Lisle, IL. Their history and spirit make it one of a kind, and a hidden gem in the western Chicago suburbs.

Residents and staff consider each other family at Villa St. Benedict.We are listed at the Top Ten companies to work for in Chicago- NY Times Survey. We have an open-door policy, which leads to beautiful friendships between residents and staff. “It’s a very special privilege to have our resident’s trust,” says, Director of Nursing. “Every day is different. There is happiness… there is sadness… but having those close relationships with residents is what keeps me going every day.”

The campus has 47 lush acres. The heart of the community is the glorious Sacred Heart Chapel.

Villa St. Benedict’s spirit of love and care that affects the daily tasks, communication, and attitude of all their staff. The Benedictine Core Values of hospitality, respect, stewardship and justice are the foundation of the community’s mission.

Villa St. Benedict offers 2-bedroom Villa Homes, a variety of independent living and assisted living apartments, and a memory care unit. Residents also enjoy many fine amenities including three dining venues, an exercise center, salon, library, outdoor walking paths and seating for enjoying beautiful vistas, and much more. Please contact a sales counselor for information by calling 630-852-0345.

FREEBIES for Seniors

Take a little time to investigate the free goods and services available to you as a senior. Discounts are great, but freebies are even better.

Some goods and services are available for no cost at all, including these examples:

tax specialists in retirement-related tax issues through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. AARP offers a similar program (AARP Foundation Tax-Aide) at various locations.

Admission – State parks, museums, sporting events, state fairs…there are plenty of places that offer free admission to seniors at specified times. Check for special nights with any place or event you would like to visit.

Preventative Care –The Affordable Care Act (“ObamaCare”) mandates that some preventative care procedures and screenings be covered at no out-of-pocket cost to you, regardless of age. These include blood pressure testing, cholesterol and colorectal cancer screening, various vaccines, and one free wellness visit.

Tax Preparation – Depending on your income and the complexity of your taxes, you may be able to use the IRS’s Free File service to submit your taxes online. Should you need help with your taxes and are age 60 or older, the IRS website can direct you to nearby free assistance from IRS-certified 48 senior focus

Prescription Drugs – If you qualify, you may be able to receive free prescription drugs through Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs).

PAPs are set up through drug companies to suburban family | subfam.com

assist low-income individuals who cannot afford certain medications. Some supermarkets with pharmacies also offer some free prescriptions as part of their loyalty program.

Education – Why not go back to school?

Many states and universities have tuition-waiver programs allowing you to attend certain classes for free.They may not be for credit, but you can still explore areas that interest you or catch up on the latest technologies.

Eye Care – The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers free eye exams and potentially up to a year of free care through EyeCare America to those 65 and older who have not seen an eye doctor in at least three years. Check the guidelines at the EyeCare America website to see if you qualify.

November/December 2019

EXPLORE MEDICARE ADVANTAGE BENEFITS Medicare Advantage (MA) plans may offer seniors options that improve quality of care and reduce overall costs. While covering all Medicare services, most MA plans include prescription drug coverage. Many also offer coordinated benefits such as vision, dental and even gym memberships.

Learn more at DuPageMedicalGroup.com/MA

November/December 2019

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B

Grandpa Has Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

By Judy M. Miller

ruce, my father-in-law, died from Alzheimer's four and one-half years ago.

My husband and I were faced with how to explain this progressive disease when he was diagnosed ten years earlier.

Our oldest son was nine-years-old, our two daughters were a preschooler and a toddler, and our youngest son was an infant. It would be some time before they would be able to understand what was going on with Grandpa. And they would, with tenderness and patience. We sat in the family room huddled in a pile for emotional support and security on our comfy couch.Their dad and I sat on the coffee table facing them and holding hands. We leaned in to close our family circle, to be there for any of us when we needed it.

Our oldest picked up the somber vibe immediately. We kept it simple.

Grandpa was losing his memory and he would remember less as his brain became sicker.

Our son asked, "Will he forget me?"

My four-year-old asked in her soft voice, "Me too, Mama?"

My two-year-old sucked her thumb, seeking to soothe herself in the shadows of sadness and grief washing over all of us. My infant son slept in my arms, unaware for now.

We shared the tough facts with our young kids and expanded on them as our oldest asked questions.We explained how dementia would impact their grandpa, how it might impact each of us, and how it would alter our relationships with the man we deeply loved.

We shared that there would come a time when he would not remember them, their names, or his relationship with them. Grandpa would not remember their dad-his only son-or his three daughters. He would not know who his wife of over 50 years was, their grandmother.

Hiccupping sobs punctuated the awful news. Telling stories lightened the sober evening and reinforced memories. Hugs and back-rubbing provided comfort.

Our son had noticed small details; Grandpa struggled to recall, things and getting lost for two hours when driving to his granddaughter's wedding reception in the city he lived in his entire life.

Our oldest asked quietly, "Is Grandpa going to die from this?"

50 senior focus

"We'll see what the future holds," my husband said, his voice breaking.

Unshed tears glistened in his eyes.

Our oldest began to cry again, then our four-year-old, and our two-yearold. Our baby slept. We offered love and support.

We kept our interactions as normal as before he was diagnosed. We talked to him as if he was still healthy as he became sicker. We told him we loved him. We hugged him and read to him often.

We did things with him that he enjoyed, like walking and watching TV. We were patient when he forgot the words or was confused. We watched over him so that it was harder for him to wander from his house. We grieved for ten years as we watched him slip away.

I discovered that an effective way to support my mother-in-law, as well as give her a break from caring for him, was to keep my kids around their grandfather, albeit supervised. Our kids and Bruce's other grandchildren brought a smile to his face and gentled him. Indeed, I found myself driving to the big box close to their house with my youngest daughter when he wandered from his house one summer morning. My mother-in-law was frantic and called me. He would not get into her car.

My youngest daughter, then ten, stretched her delicate hand out to him and patted the spot next to her in the back seat. Smiling, she called to him, "Come on, Papaw."

He came like a lamb and put his arm around her, like how he used to hold her before his mind became so foggy. Upon returning to Grandma and Grandpa's house, the two enjoyed popsicles, as if it was an everyday occurrence at 9 am.

Sometimes Bruce stood for hours on the perimeter of our gatherings watching Grandma and us interact, typically around our kitchen table.

For years, he was able to engage, communicate, and feel. Eventually, as his dementia worsened, there was little to no engagement or emotional acknowledgment of us.

However, his gentleness towards his grandchildren, especially the youngest ones, remained a part of him, as did his manners. Always the gentleman, he pulled a chair out for me to sit in only a week or so before he died when I visited him in the nursing home.

Alzheimer's and Dementia: What's the Difference?

While Alzheimer's and dementia are used interchangeably they are different diagnoses. Dementia includes symptoms that impair thinking and memory. Dementia is associated with aging and can be brought on Alzheimer's, Parkinson's Disease, CreutzfeldtJakob Disease, Huntington's Disease, and other health factors.

People diagnosed with Alzheimer's experience confusion and impaired thoughts and speech. Unlike some other dementias, Alzheimer's is, at this time, degenerative and incurable. According to the Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's accounts for 6080% of all dementia.

suburban family | subfam.com

November/December 2019

Your Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home for Healthcare n

Dental Institute

n

Eye Institute

n

Family Medicine/Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine

n

Physical Therapy Institute

n

Speech-Language Institute

To schedule an appointment call 630/743-4500 Midwestern University

Multispecialty Clinic

3450 Lacey Road | Downers Grove, IL 60515

www.mwuclinics.com November/December 2019

suburban family | subfam.com

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great events

November &December

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 January/February issue is Friday, December 6th.

NOVEMBER FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 FAMILY Day of the Dead Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with authentic food, dancing, Mexican altars, and tradition during November’s First Fridays. Free. Downtown Aurora. auroradowntown.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 FUNDRAISER – American Legion Pancake Breakfast – Enjoy pancakes, eggs, sausage, beverages. $10 adults. $5 kids. Under 4 free. Visitors Center, Cantigny. Wheaton. cantignypost556.org.

ADULTS Fall Fête – Come view the Lake Ellyn Boathouse in all of its magnificent beauty while enjoying food, cocktails, wines and a festive atmosphere. 6:30 – 10:30 PM. Supports the Glen Ellyn community. gepark.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 FAMILY Free Backyard Stargazing 101 – Discover what wonders can be seen with a little knowledge of where to look and what to look for. Ages 11+ Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 FAMILY Tree Walk & Talk - Learn about Cantigny’s magnificent trees and enjoy the fall foliage on this guided tour. 11 AM. Free with parking ($5). Cantigny Visitors Center, Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

52 great events

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 ADULTS Barrel Tasting and Open House - Lynfred winemakers will serve some of their favorite barreled wines and Guest Suites will be open for viewing. Serving appetizers. 7-9 PM. Tickets. Roselle. Webwine.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Game On! Sitcom Showdown - Be part of the live studio audience of a TV sitcom-themed episode of Naperville’s only TV game show: Game On! 7 PM. Tickets. Center Stage Theatre, Naperville. nctv17.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8 FAMILY Dollhouse Miniature Show and Sale - Annual show features displays of dollhouses and miniature scenes. Items for sale. Holiday Inn, Elk Grove Village. weecminiclub.com.

TEEN GIRLS Women in Construction Event – Area high school girls invited to event at Northern Michigan University. Meet with female industry professionals and complete projects in welding and carpentry. Register.

Marquette, MI. nmu.edu/tos/wic-day.

KIDS Mother/Son Superhero Fun - Moms and their sons will enjoy a night of fun with music, dancing, games, crafts and hanging with a superhero! Ages 3-13. Prairie Activity & Rec. Center, Plainfield. plfdparks.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 FAMILY Dollhouse Miniature Show and Sale - Annual show features displays of dollhouses and miniature scenes. Items for sale. Holiday Inn, Elk Grove Village. weecminiclub.com.

TOUR of the Oak Hill and Oak Crest Cemeteries Downers Grove’s oldest graveyards. Learn about the history of the sites and the lives if residents who are buried there, including war veterans. All ages. Dgparks.org.

EXHIBIT Nature Artists’ Guild Holiday Exhibit - Peruse 150 pieces of art from 50 artists and watch demonstrations. 10 AM – 4 PM. Morton Arboretum, Lisle.

Mortonarb.org.

FAMILY: Giving Back - Participants will create holiday suburban family | subfam.com

cards for the residents of Hines VA Hospital. 12 to 3 PM. Free.

Robert R. McCormick House, Cantigny. Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

SENIORS Fun Dance - Inviting seniors come to dance, listen live DJ, snack and meet new friends. 6-10 PM Bring a snack to share. Tickets $12. St. Peter Church, Schaumburg. anewstartclub.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 EXHIBIT Nature Artists’ Guild Holiday Exhibit - Peruse 150 pieces of art from 50 artists and watch demonstrations. 10 AM – 4 PM. Morton Arboretum, Lislzzzzzzzzzzzze.

Mortonarb.org.

ADULTS - Brides & Bubbles Expo - Amazing boutiques, caterers and bakers, lavish decorators, plus everything you need for your bachelorette party, honeymoon, and beyond. 11 AM – 3 PM. Sheridan, Lisle. induoevents.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 THEATRE Mystery in the Mansion Lunchtime Matinee - Begin your day of fun and adventure with lunch at The Jacob Henry Mansion and a Murder Mystery to solve. 11:30 AM. Jacob Henry Mansion, Joliet. jacobhenrymansion.com WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Watercolor Pencil & Crayon Art by Kathy Steere Apply water-soluble crayons & watercolor pencils to fabric & paper in this enjoyable class. 7PM. Bloomingdale Park District Museum. bloomingdaleparks.org.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14 FUNDRAISER Batavia Lions Club Annual Underwear (and socks!) Party – Benefitting Batavia United Way’s Adopt-A-Family. Bring $10 or a same value new package of underwear or socks. Complimentary appetizers and cash bar. Raffle. 6-8 PM. Bar Evolution, Batavia. bataviaunitedway.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 FAMILY Veteran’s Day Family Swim - Join us for a special Family Nigh out celebrating our Veterans! Cost is free November/December 2019

and we will provide a light refreshment. 7-8 PM. Goldfish Swim School, Plainfield. goldfishswimschool.com.

FITNESS Friday Night Dance Party – Get ready to get your groove on. Dance stylings of Zumba, Werq, Zumba Gold and Dance. 7 - 9 PM. Light refreshments. Fort Hill Activity Center, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 FAMILY Model Railroad Madness - Meet model train enthusiasts and collectors to learn about the hobby and how model trains work. FREE. Elmhurst History Museum’s Education Center, Elmhurst. elmhursthistory.org.

ADULTS Wheatstack’s Dueling Pianos - Join us for a night with great music and food. 21+ 7:30-10:30PM. Wheatstack - A Midwestern Eatery & Tap. Lisle. Register. wheatstacklisle.com/events.html ADULTS Grief and Healing Conference - It’s uplifting, inspirational, spiritual and informational to help the grief and healing process. 9 AM to 5 PM. Chicago-MarriottNaperville. RenewConference.life.

FAMILY Bird Walks - Search the woods, fields, and edges of the Arboretum for birds. Walk with an expert guide, to locate and identify species spotted along the way.

8 - 10:30 AM Morton Arboretum, Lisle. mortonarb.org.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 ADULT Ladies Night Out – Make holiday wreaths.

Includes supplies, instruction, bow demonstration, wine tasting and small appetizers. 7-9 PM. Glenview Park Golf Club. Register. glenviewparks.org.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21 KIDS Nerf Gun Night - Kids will battle and play fun competitive games. Participants must provide their own Nerf Gun and protective eye-wear. Ages 7-12. 6-7:30 PM. Register. Downers Grove Recreation Center. Dgparks.org.

HISTORY Date with History: Battle of the Bulge Author Gregory Fontenot discusses “Loss and Redemption at St Vith: The 7th Armored Division in the Battle of the Bulge.”

7 PM. Free. Cantigny Visitors Center, Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 CONCERT – Millennium Carillon Thanksgiving Day Recital – Seasonal Bell recital. Noon. Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower and Visitor Center, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

For Holiday Events see the ‘‘Out & About” section in this issue!

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 FAMILY Black Friday Family Hike - Explore what happens to the trees, animals and insects in the fall. End adventure with roasting marshmallows over a fire. 1 - 2:30 PM. $14, includes Arboretum admission. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. Mortonarb.org.

CONCERT – Millennium Carillon Holiday Concert – Seasonal Bell recital. Noon. Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower and Visitor Center, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

DECEMBER SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 SHOP Tropical Fish Swap Meet - GCCA’s Swap Meet is a great place to buy fish, plants, food, equipment and more! 10 AM – 2 PM. $5 and kids under 15 free with adult.

Marriott, Hoffman Estates. gcca.net.

HISTORY Military Collectibles Show - You will see items from ALL wars - edged weapons, books, flags, medals, insignia, hats, helmets, artwork and photos. 8 AM – 1 PM. Ramada, Glendale Heights. 10times.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 PETS Santa Paws Pictures - Dress up your pooch for a picture-perfect photo shoot! Santa will be there and his elves will take a picture of you and your pup on his lap.

Bloomingdale. Bloomingdaleparks.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4 FAMILY Hoot Hike! –Learn about owls - what to look and listen for and then go on a .5-mile hike in search of our feathered friends. 6-7 PM. Isle a la Cache Museum, Joliet. reconnectwithnature.org.

HEALTH - DAGN Coffee Klatch – Our Coffee Klatches are informal meetings for parents to meet with the Dyslexia Action Group of Naperville team and other parents who understand the challenges of raising a child with dyslexia.

7-8 PM. Whole Foods, Naperville. dagnaperville.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 HISTORY Date with History: The Ghost Army Author Rick Beyer discusses “The Ghost Army of World War II,” his book on the top-secret Army unit that employed battlefield trickery to gain strategic advantage. 7 PM. Free.

Cantigny Visitors Center, Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 FAMILY Gingerneering – Get in the holiday spirit

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 ADULTS – Turkey Shoot Softball Tournament.

Enjoy a weekend of fun, softball and turkey! Teams compete in a double elimination tournament. Prizes. McCaslin Park, Carol Stream. Register your team. csparks.org.

TEENS “The Gobble Games” Minecraft Tourney Come show off your Minecraft talent and compete to win cash prizes, gift cards, and more! Players enjoy food, drink, and snacks provided. 3 -9 PM. NIU, Naperville. eventbrite. com/o/game-is-the-name MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25 KIDS Talkin’ Turkey Parent-Child Activity - Children learn about the wild turkey, listen to stories, sing songs and make a turkey craft. 10 - 11 AM Ages 3 to 5 with adult.

Register. Cantigny Visitors Center, Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 TWEENS/TEENS Middle School Open Gym / Open Swim- Choose from basketball, dodgeball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, table tennis or a little of each. Concessions.

7-9 PM. Fountain View Recreation Center, Carol Stream. csparks.org November/December 2019

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great events 53

with a family fun workshop. Build individually or combine the gingerbread kits in new and creative ways. Sci-Tech Museum, Aurora. scitechmuseum.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 FAMILY Winter Craft Workshop - Get ready for the holidays by making nature-themed or recycled gifts for friends and family. 10 AM – Noon or 1-3 PM. Register.

Knoch Knolls Nature Center River Room, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 FAMILY Gingerneering – Get in the holiday spirit with a family fun workshop. Build individually or combine the gingerbread kits in new and creative ways. Sci-Tech Museum, Aurora. scitechmuseum.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 FAMILY Second Saturday Family Program: Engineering - Celebrate and learn about remarkable feats of engineering and create one of your own using LEGO® bricks.

12-3 PM. Free. Cantigny’s Robert R. McCormick House, Wheaton. Cantigny.org.

SHOPPING Last Chance Craft & Art Fair – 190 booths of indoor shopping. $5 admission. 10AM-4PM. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. Craftproductionsinc.com.

KIDS Winter Princess Ball Event –Join all your favorite princesses for a lovely Ball complete with photos, dance parties, and more! 10 AM – 12 PM. Tickets. Bartlett Hills GC Weddings, Bartlett. princessfairytaleparties.com.

KIDS Nature Discovery Days: All About Evergreens – Explore nature with your child. Fun hands-on activities, games, crafts, experiments, nature books and more. No registration. 11 AM – 2 PM. Knoch Knolls Nature Center River Room, Naperville. napervilleparks.org/kknc.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 SHOPPING Last Chance Craft & Art Fair – 190 booths of indoor shopping. $5 admission. 11AM-4PM. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. Craftproductionsinc.com.

SHOPPING Wheaton Antique Market - Antique Market is a paradise for all kinds of collectors. 8 AM – 3 PM. DuPage County Fairgrounds. Wheaton. 10times.com/ wheaton-antique-market.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 FUNDRAISER Chili and Cornbread Cook Off – Come and enjoy the food, company, conversation and music as we celebrate the season. Water included or BYOB. 7:30-9 PM. Tickets. DuPage Unitarian Universalist Church, Naperville. secure.actblue.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 ADULTS Terrarium Construction- Learn the basics of terrarium construction and care while constructing your very own terrarium to take home. Includes 1 drink (Beer or Wine).7-8:30 PM. Oak Park Conservatory. Tickets. registration.pdop.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 KIDS – Nerf Gun Night - Kids will battle and play fun

competitive games. Participants must provide their own Nerf Gun and protective eye-wear. Ages 7-12. 6-7:30 PM. Downers Grove Recreation Center. Register. Dgparks.org.

HISTORY Lunch & Learn: Great Chicago Fire - Brian Failing, executive director of Aurora Regional Fire Museum, discusses the Great Chicago Fire and its impact. 12 - 1 PM. Free. Cantigny Visitors Center, Wheaton. Register Cantigny.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 FAMILY Holiday Spectacular – Celebrate the incredible talents of SEASPAR’s participants with disabilities with theatre, dance, and music performances at a free recital that will leave you inspired and filled with holiday cheer. 7 PM. Theatre of Western Springs. 630-960-7600 or SEASPAR. org.

KIDS Parents Night Out – Drop of the kids for a night of activities and hot dog dinner while mom and dad have some “me” time. 6-9 PM. Register online. Community Center, Woodridge. apm.activecommunities.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 KIDS Nature Discovery Days: All About Evergreens – Explore nature with your child. Fun hands-on activities, games, crafts, experiments, nature books and more. No registration. 11 AM – 2 PM. Knoch Knolls Nature Center River Room, Naperville. napervilleparks.org/kknc.

FAMILY Winter Solstice Family Hike - Explore the wintery scene along the trails on this fun filled, guided family hike. End your adventure with a cozy fire and marshmallow roasting. 1 – 2:30 PM. Register. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. Mortonarb.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 FAMILY Bingo and Pizza – Event includes 12 games of bingo, snacks, pizza and drinks and prizes for adults and children. 12:15-1:30 PM. Register. Aurelios Pizza, 305 W. Jackson, Naperville. Napervilleparks.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 FAMILY Inflata Palooza – Spend the day using our big inflatables, playing on the soccer field. Ages 12 and under with adult. 11 AM – 1 PM. Darien Sportsplex, Darien.

Darienparks.com.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the winter solstice with a concert of original and traditional acoustic music.

This season marks the 35th anniversary of the multiplatinum-selling Winter Solstice album series originally released on Windham Hill Records. This joyous holiday concert features Grammy-winning guitarist Will Ackerman, Grammy Award-nominated singer, fiddler, pianist and songwriter Barbara Higbie, composer Todd Boston and cellist Mia Pixley.

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Tickets: $30 General Public $25 Seniors Students (with ID) and children are free!

A ticket is required to reserve seat.

Purchase tickets online or call (708) 974-5500. morainevalley.edu/fpac

ONGOING TEENS Middle School Movie Nights – 11/27 and 12/23. The Lounge is open just for middle-schoolers to watch newly released movies on our huge projector screen!

Concessions are available. Bloomingdale. Bloomingdaleparks.org.

FAMILY Snowman Photo Contest – 12/1/19 – 2/28/2020. Get outside and build a snowman together. Take a photo and submit it to sdignan@

Dorothy Menker Theater

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 FAMILY Millennium Carillon New Year’s Eve Recitals - Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower and Visitor Center, Naperville. Countdown to 6:00 PM for Families, 5-5:30 PM. Countdown to Midnight, Carillon Duets, 11:15-11:45 PM. Napervilleparks.org.

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City Events Lincoln Park ZooLights – 11/29 – 12/15 weekends and all week 1/16-1/5. ZooLights illuminates the zoo with more than 2.5 million lights and hundreds of dynamic displays. This FREE event transforms Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland for 28 nights complete with visits from Santa, ice sculptors, carolers, festive activities and sweet treats of all kinds.

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon – Opens mid November. 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. maggiedaleypark.com.

Christmas Around The World and Holidays of Light – November 14-January 5. Since 1942 Chicagoans and visitors alike have enjoyed fabulous trees from over 50 countries, plus spectacular lights all in the comfort of the museum. Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. msichicago.org.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival – November 22-23. Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, this Annual Festival rings in the holiday season with two days of free, family-friendly activities including a magical tree-lighting procession along Michigan Ave., visits with Santa, food vendors, fireworks and music.

Chicago. themagnificentmile.com.

106th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting – November 22. Enjoy this holiday tradition, a glittering tree set among Chicago’s sparkling skyline and the iconic art of Millennium Park. 6 PM. Chicago. millenniumpark. org.

Millennium Park Holiday Art Market – November 22-24. Students from the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College Chicago and After School Matters will feature on-of-a-kind items including jewelry, fashion, painting, sculpture, prints and drawings for sale in a heated tent on the Chase Promenade North. 11 AM – 7 PM Fri/Sat. 11 AM – 5 PM Sun. Chicago. chicago.gov

darienparks.com. Winners announced 3/2/2020. Darien.

Darienparks.com.

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink – November 15 – mid March. Lessons and special programming weekends and during the Chicago Public Schools’ winter break. Skate rentals available. Chicago. millenniumpark.org.

McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – November 28. Giant inflatable balloons, marching bands and cultural performances. 8-11 AM. State Street, Chicago. chicagofestivals.org.

Wreathing of the Lions – November 29. Watch as cheery holiday wreaths are placed on the regal lion statues on the museum steps and then head inside for art-making activities. 10 AM. Art Institute, Chicago. artic.edu.

Caroling at the Cloud Gate – Fridays – Nov 29, Dec 6, 13 and 20. Bundle up and belt out some holiday classics as local Chicago choral groups lead hundreds of celebrants in song. 6-7 PM. Chicago. millenniumpark.org.

McCormick House Tours Sundays 1 PM and 3 PM. Elmhurst.

EXHIBIT Home Grown – Through 7/28/2020. Home Grown explores the historical methods and tools that DuPage residents used to farm and raise livestock and the impacts agriculture has had on the country. DuPage County Historical Museum, Wheaton. Wheatonparks.org.

CONTEST Cantigny Park Amateur photographers to enter their best images in the Cantigny in Focus annual photo contest. Entry deadline 11/18. Winning entries on display in February. Park visitors vote for their favorite images throughout 2020. Cantigny, Wheaton.

Cantigny.org.

EXHIBIT On the Right Track: By Rail to Chicago & Beyond – 11/14-3/29/20. Take a journey through 170 years of railroading history—from Elmhurst to Chicago and beyond. View a wide array of artifacts. Kids can investigate hands-on learning stations. FREE. Elmhurst History

Christkindlmarket Chicago – November 15 – December 24. A unique open-air shopping experience with traditional German flair offering food, drinks and diverse holiday entertainment. Downtown and Wrigleyville locations. Chicago. christkindlemarket.com.

Museum, elmhursthistory.org.

EXHIBIT McCormick House – Past, Present, Future – Through 1/12/20. Elmhurst Art Museum will exhibit a full 1950s domestic representation of its Mies van der Rohe

EXHIBIT What Came After: Figurative Painting in Chicago 1978-98. Through 1/12/20. What Came After is a survey of diverse interests in the figure as a subject, the human condition, and an interest in personal iconography.

Elmhurst History Museum. elmhursthistory.org.

SENIOR Mount Prospect Senior Men’s Group Welcoming New Members. Play pool, share stories and discuss the news of the day. Wednesdays at 12:30 PM. Community Room, Mount Prospect Village Hall. Contact: Lee Habich (847-207-0079).

EXHIBIT “A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico” Through 1/5/20. The temporary exhibition is rich with cultural symbols from one of the most recognized annual events in Mexico. Dunn Museum, Libertyville. DunnMuseum.org.

KIDS Arbor Reading Adventures - Wed and Fri in Nov. This interactive story time will include a craft before participants head out to the grounds for an adventure walk. 11 -11:45 AM. Children ages 3 to 5 with adult.

Morton Arboretum, Lisle. Mortonarb.org.

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November/December 2019

dining out

The Hen House of Wheaton

Vino Thai

Come and relax at The Hen House of Wheaton Restaurant and Coffee Bar which reflects an urban barn atmosphere. We offer decadent and healthy options. Our passion is to elevate traditional fare. We offer breakfast, lunch, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menus, separate Gluten Free & Vegan menu.

Full Coffer Bar, we use Lavazza Coffee. We offer alcoholic beverages, such as; Bloody Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Mimosas, Beer & Wine.

The Hen House is sure to please every situation for families, business associates, friends and couples. Come enjoy your meal by our cozy fireplace. Open daily 6:30 AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:30 PM. Catering and Private Party/ Meeting room available.

1060 College Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187. 630-480-0611. www.the-henhouse-of-wheaton.business.site

Well-known for its vibrant, flavorful Thai cuisine and friendly staff, Vinothaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has long been a top choice for diners looking to tour the tastes of Thailand. Every family recipe is carefully prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients available. Please let us welcome your next dine-in or take out. We serve lunch specials Mon.- Fri. 11:00 - 3:00 p.m. VinoThaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is located in East Gate Commons, 3825 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174.

We are open every day for lunch and dinner. For reservations call 630443-8461.Visit www.vinothai.com

Healthy Fresh Thai Cuisine

Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Cocktails

East Gate Common & .BJO 4U t 4U $IBSMFT *- %JOF *O t $BSSZ 0VU .POEBZ o 5IVSTEBZ o QN 'SJEBZ 4BUVSEBZ o QN 4VOEBZ o QN

(630) 443-8461 www.vinothai.com November/December 2019

1060 College Ave (630) 480-0611 Thehenhouseofwheaton@gmail.com Come in for a FREE Cup of Homemade Soup with any entrĂŠe, Monday thru Thursday: 11AM -2:30PM suburban family | subfam.com

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Mon Ami Gabi Mon Ami Gabi is the perfect place to host your holiday event. Let our seasoned Catering Team help you plan your special occasion from start to finish. With two private rooms located off the main dining room, both feature glass paneled French doors, deep mahogany wood, rich leather banquettes and a mosaic tile floor. Treat your guests to our signature Steak Frites, boutique French wine pairings and decadent dessert. To inquire for bookings and package details, contact our catering team at 773-935-5000 or email monamichgoparties@leye.com Grabbing lunch at Oakbrook Center? We have you covered with our Prix Fixe Lunch option! Enjoy a three-course “dejeuner” at Mon Ami Gabi for $19.95 per person. SAVE THE DATES! Join us for our annual New Year’s Day Pajama Brunch from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, dine in your Pj’s and receive a gift card equal to the price of your meal, to use for a future visit. Reservations are strongly encouraged; please call 630-4721900 to book your table. The next French Classics Winter Cooking Class is on Saturday, January 18 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Visit us online at monamigabi.com/events to purchase tickets.

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

Catch 35 A fresh take on seafood & steak - experience Catch 35’s newly crafted menus. Voted BEST SEAFOOD in Naperville, Catch 35 focuses on flavor forward dishes with the freshest ingredients available. The newly crafted menu offers a variety of seafood & fresh from the farm options that appeal to all types of eaters. Fan favorites have been enhanced, while seasonal ingredients highlight the specials menu each month.

OAKBROOK CENTER MALL • OAK BROOK, IL MONAMIGABI.COM

630.472.1900

Catch 35, with locations in Chicago and Naperville, entices the casual, business, and special occasion crowds. Host your holiday celebration at Catch 35 for the ultimate seafood & steak dining experience featuring customizable menus, tech amenities, and garage parking available next door. Follow us on Facebook,Twitter, and Instagram for upcoming events and monthly specials. View the new lunch, dinner, and Noodles & Bites bar menus at www.catch35.com. Locations: 35 W.Wacker, Chicago, 312-346-3500 and 35 S. Washington, Naperville, 630-717-3500.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY TODAY! SPECIAL EVENTS CAN-CAN DINNER SHOWS, COOKING CLASSES & MORE!

Stay CONNECTED: 58 dining out

Cooper’s Hawk brings the Napa Valley lifestyle to Downers Grove! The restaurant features a Napa-style tasting room and an artisan market for food and wine lovers.The brand is known for its very special Wine Club (the largest in the country), where members enjoy limited-production Cooper’s Hawk blends, loyalty points, and exclusive travel and lifestyle experiences.1801 Butterfield Rd Downers Grove, IL | chwinery.com | @CHWinery | Facebook: coopershawk

Attract our readers to your restaurant.

Call 630-863-7183 to reserve your space in the January/February issue’s DINING OUT section.

Free listing included! suburban family | subfam.com

November/December 2019

November/December 2019

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