Suburban Family November + December 2023 by Suburban Family Magazine

Celebrating 25 Years!

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NOV/DEC 2023

SENIOR FOCUS Season’s Best On Stage Holiday Events Childhood Obesity Winter Fitness …and more!

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contents

november/december 2023 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sandra Gordon Cherie Gough Barbara Huelat Janet Lubman Rathner Rick Walz EVENTS EDITOR Gina Hayes PUBLISHER Jim Wolf CO-EDITORS Sue Wolf Jim Wolf

out & about

Embrace Simple Holiday Traditions Holiday Family Fun Guide Holiday Happenings On Stage

family wellness

Preventing Childhood Obesity: 4 Things Families Can Do

senior focus

education central 48

ART DIRECTION Tim Devine Cory Ottenwess

active kids

ADVERTISING Sue Wolf Laura Zolper

Help Your Child Do Well in School Education Resource

Organized Activities Active Kids Zone

fitness first 38

What to Expect as a Caregiver Senior Resource Protect Older Adults from Scams and Abuse The Importance of Maintaining Balance

Running in Cooler Weather Fitness Events

51 52

great events

dining out

#1 family events calendar

Superb romantic and family places to dine out!

From all of us at Suburban Family, we wish all our loyal readers and business partners, a happy and healthy holiday season

CIRCULATION Lou Fracassi Chicago Suburban Family Magazine C E R T I F I E D C I R C U L AT I O N Suburban Family Magazine and www.subfam.com target the Chicago suburban family consumer with valuable information on family activities, advice and resources. Suburban Family is published bi-monthly by Jameson Publishing, Inc. and is distributed free to the public through quality locations in the Chicago suburbs. The full edition is online at subfam.com and chicagosuburbanfamily.com. Unless otherwise noted all articles, formatting techniques, photographs, artwork, and ad designs printed herein are the sole property of Jameson Publishing, Inc. and may not be duplicated or reprinted without Jameson Publishing’s express written permission. Suburban Family and Jameson Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers. The sponsored ads and editorial do not necessarily express the views of Suburban Family Magazine and Jameson Publishing, Inc. Readers should verify advertised information with advertisers.

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

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November/December 2023

Gift C ert i ficate s Avail able

Bundle up… and enjoy a nostalgic horse-drawn sleigh ride through our 78-acre apple orchard and woods - a winter wonderland. Enjoy tasty s’mores and hot chocolate or hot cider around a warm campfire.

Call 262-884-7100 to make your reservation for a private horse drawn sleigh ride. Reservations are available seven days a week, all winter long (provided we have enough snow coverage). Pricing for 2023-2024 season is $150 (plus tax) for up to 8 people. Warming igloo dome also available at no additional charge.

Reservations at 262-884-7100

Shop Different Shop Local

Shop Arlington Heights for the Holidays!

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the kids play dreidel and take turns lighting candles.

Embrace Simple Holiday Traditions

Celebrate grandparents’ roots Have the grandparents teach kids how to make a time-honored family holiday staple and it’s sure to become a favorite holiday activity. 11-year-old Myles loves making ravioli with his grandparents. “We make stations so everyone can help with thinning the dough or stuffing the ravioli. After that, we feast.”

Bring Joy to the World It feels nice to receive, but even nicer to give. If you want to teach your kids that the holidays are about more than their wish lists, choose ways to give back that are realistic and interest the whole family.

By Cherie Gough

re you frustrated by the stress of the holiday rush? Before allowing the whirlwind of the season to blow you away, take a mindful breath, let go of “perfect”, and make time to enjoy yourself and your loved ones.

Hunting down parking spots, checking gift after gift off the endless list, and baking the perfect cookies for the kids’ holiday parties is exhausting. This year, choose simple pleasures over chaos and commercialism, say no to doing too much, and create traditions that reflect what truly matters to your family. These easy-to-accomplish traditions focus on simplicity and create meaningful joy.

Celebrate Cozy Moments at Home Wrap 12 Christmas-themed books you already own. Unwrap one each night for 1 the 12 of Christmas and read together at bedtime. the 12 days of Christmas and read together at bedtime. If your family gathers on Christmas Eve, have the kids open one present together: a new board game. They’ll love a sneak peek at gifts and the family will enjoy playing together. Make magic “reindeer food.” Simply mix together oats and glitter and sprinkle it outside on Christmas Eve. Don’t forget to take photos! One of the most treasured gifts I give each year is an ornament that reflects my children’s current interests. They love opening a present early (the day we decorate the tree). I love honoring who they are each year and creating an ornament collection for their own trees when they are grown.

Cook up Tradition in the Kitchen Even people who don’t love to cook appreciate spending time in the kitchen together. Blended families who celebrate more than one tradition can invite friends of all persuasions to join a warm, informal Hanukkah celebration.Adults cook up plenty of latkes while 6 out & about

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Collect and donate new socks. Socks are one of the most needed (but least donated) items at shelters. Have each family member pick out a pair and donate them to a homeless shelter or a similar organization. Donate a copy of your child’s favorite book to a local teacher. Having your child pick out the book helps her take ownership and feel good about giving back. Reinvent the advent calendar and make it more meaningful. Add good deeds you can do together, such as helping an elderly neighbor. Empty out the family change jar and donate the coins to Salvation Army bell-ringers. Your gift is especially pertinent as extreme hurricanes and wildfires grow. Do your kids dream of a snowy winter? Ice skating gives them a reason to bundle up in scarves and mittens. An outing can help others. Find a skating event that benefits a local charity. Or sign up to do a fitness fun run.

Let Lights Fill You with Cheer There’s something about whimsical, colorful holiday lights that make this the most wonderful time of year. Walk around your neighborhood with a thermos of hot chocolate to look at lights together. Find a favorite house with lights choreographed to music or a special theme. Bundle up in PJs, pile into the car, and go on a family holiday light expedition touring holiday lights all around town. Visit a favorite landmark, like a hotel that goes all out with holiday decor. Eat at their restaurant, take in the view, then head inside and gaze at the beautifully decorated hotel, full of holiday magic. November/December 2023

CMYK

Lighting Up Lemont

Learn more at lightinguplemont.com

November/December 2023

Your holiday photo spot Nov. 25 – jan. 31

LIGHTING UP LEMONT IS SPONSORED BY OUR MAIN EVENT SPONSOR CITGO, THE DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION AND THE VILLAGE OF LEMONT.

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G i v e us a fo l low :

@lemontdowntown

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Holiday Family Fun Guide

Volo Museum The world-famous Volo Museum has something rare and amazing for all ages! The highly anticipated Titanic Museum is now open! Check out full-sized trains used in blockbuster movies and play mini golf in our brand new dino-themed golf course. Host your next party in our brand new party rooms with all-inclusive packages. Do you want to hang out at your house or spend the day exploring a giant dinosaur park, watching animatronic shows, playing vintage arcade games, riding retro kiddie rides, reliving your favorite movies through our movie cars, riding a full-size carousel and tons more! Open daily Monday-Sunday 10am-5pm. Visit www. volofun.com. 27582 Volo Village Road,Volo, IL. There are tons of “usual” places to host your parties. Why not have it at one of the most unique places in the world? Volo Museum just finished a brand-new private party building with all-inclusive party packages for up to 100 people that includes a private room, party host, pizza, soft drinks and all-day admission to the Museum, Jurassic Gardens (a 15k sq ft indoor dinosaur park) or both! For more info email partybooking@volofun.com. [See our ad on the Inside Front Cover.] Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo Experience the glow of the new nostalgia starting November 17 at Lincoln Park Zoo. Admission is $7–$10 throughout the week and free on Mondays! Visit https://www.lpzoo. org/event/zoolights/ for entry, attraction, and programming info. Become a member to receive free or discounted parking, along with discounts on zoo foods, merchandise, and more! What are you waiting for? Get tickets for Chicago’s favorite holiday tradition!

Sonny Acres Farm Dive into the Festive Season at Sonny Acres Farm: Join us in West Chicago as Santa’s Workshop brings magic from the North Pole! From November 17 to December 31, Sonny Acres Farm transforms into a Winter Wonderland with the dazzling Big and Bright Trail of Lights Festival. Be here on November 17th when Santa flips the switch! Step into the magic of our Big and Bright Trail of Lights Show, where millions of dazzling lights illuminate a sparkling walking trail with fun stops along the way. Enjoy a charming Christmas Market with crafters and makers, seasonal treats, delicious food, photos with Santa, U-pick Christmas trees and wreaths. 8 out & about

Sonny Acres Farm offers endless possibilities to make your next event unforgettable, boasting 22 acres of space, making it the perfect option for just about any occasion. From breathtaking weddings set amidst one of our scenic backdrops to large scale corporate events, family reunions, kids birthday parties and more, the customization options are flexible and pair perfectly with any occasion. Treat your guests to our seasonal offerings including access to amusement rides, petting zoo, hayrides and much more. For more information visit www.sonnyacres. com. [See our ad on the Back Cover.] suburban family | subfam.com

Take Your Holiday Season to The Heights this year in Arlington Heights! The Holiday Season is wonderful in Arlington Heights with some of Chicagoland’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment for the whole family! It all starts with our spectacular annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 24th and continues with Small Business Saturday on November 25th. Come out and shop at independent and national retailers in our award-winning Downtown. And don’t forget the Rotary Santa Run on December 2nd, a 5K race featuring hundreds of St. Nicks dashing through the streets. For great shopping, dining, and events. For more information, please visit www.DiscoverArlington.com! (See our ad on p. 5)

November/December 2023

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Abbey Farms Abbey Farms has everything you want for the holidays! Purchase a Pre-Cut tree, or cut your own! We have garland, swag and a host of greenery as well. Bring home an old-fashioned treat from our bakery – choose from pies, apple crisp or our award-winning donuts. Reserve a time to visit Santa, then stay to dine in The Emporium Cafe, either inside or on our patio by the fire! Or shop a wide range of gifts in our 6,000-square-foot farm store – from incredibly tasty specialty food items to unique home goods to one-of-a-kind vintage items and crafts. We’re dog-friendly, so bring ‘em along! Visit AbbeyFarms.org for all the details! [See our ad on the Inside Front Cover.] Apple Holler Bundle up and enjoy a nostalgic horse-drawn sleigh ride through our 78-acre apple orchard and woods - a winter wonderland! Enjoy great comfort food touched by the magic of apples at the Red Barn Restaurant and Bakery Café. Apple Holler offers four seasons of family fun for visitors to enjoy all year long! Apple Holler is the ideal rustic wedding venue located between Chicago and Milwaukee, WI, right off of I-94 at Exit 337, simply follow the signs to the FUN! (5006 S. Sylvania Ave. Sturtevant,WI 53177) Call (262) 884-7100 or visit www.appleholler.com for further information. [See our ad on Page 5.]

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Holiday Show Package. Get into the spirit of the holidays and join us for a jolly good time! Holiday Show Package includes Family Holiday Show, Candy Cane Express Train Ride,Visit with Santa and His Helpers, Photo Ops with Santa’s Giant Sleigh, Spectacular Holiday Barn Decorations, Warm Apple Cider to Sip, Your Own Gingerbread Cookie to Decorate, and Memories to Last a Lifetime! Saturdays (2nd, 9th & 16th) & Sundays (3rd, 10th & 17th) in December. Check in at 9:30 am for best seats! $12.50 per person. Reservations Required. Please call 262-8847100 or visit www.appleholler.com. [See our ad on the Inside Back Cover.]

Tinley Park Celebrates the Season Celebrate the spirit of the season in Tinley Park with our Holiday Happenings from Dec. 1 to Dec. 3 at the Oak Park Avenue train station featuring the Holiday Market, the Parade of Lights, the Community Tree-Lighting Ceremony and much more. Keep the fun going with a Trans-Siberian Orchestra-inspired holiday show by the Christmas Wizards with lights and snow machines at 7 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Tinley Park Convention Center! Learn more at VisitTinleyPark.com.

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Visit Kenosha All is Merry & Bright in Kenosha, Wisconsin this holiday. With festive events every day from Thanksgiving through the New Year, you will have no trouble finding fun! Enjoy visits with Santa, holiday markets and gallery display offering one-of-a-kind gifts. Take in live performances and historical holiday programs. Tour light displays and shops with decorated windows. Savor cozy cafes with cups to warm you up and restaurants with hearty winter meals. Plan your getaway to Kenosha for this holiday season.Vist www.www.kenosha.com Santa’s Village Magical Christmas Drive Thru Gather the family and drive through our park with millions of lights synchronized to your favorite holiday music. NEW for 2023 visit our Santa’s Food and Photo Festival at the end for photo opportunities, festive food, plus a visit with Santa! The Magic begins November 24th running select dates through December 23rd. Admission $35.00 per vehicle. Purchase tickets at www.santasvillagedundee.com

November/December 2023

HOLIDAY

COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Friday, December 1st 6-10 p.m. Saturday, December 2nd 4-10 p.m. Sunday, December 3rd 2-7 p.m

Friday, December 1st 6:15 p.m. | Zabrocki Plaza

MARKET

173rd Place & Oak Park Avenue Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for a community sing-along to holiday music.

Friday December 1st

Saturday December 2nd

Photos with Santa 6pm-8pm Photos with Santa 4pm-8pm Old Fashion Carriage Ride 6pm-8pm Old Fashion Carriage Ride 4pm-8pm Musical Entertainment 4pm-10pm Musical Entertainment 6pm-10pm

Animated Holiday Walk December 1st - January 7th

Elf in Window December 1st - January 7th

Presenting Sponsor

Sunday December 3rd Photos with Santa 2pm-6pm Old Fashion Carriage Ride 2pm-4pm Parade of Lights 5pm Musical Entertainment 2pm-7pm

Performing Live at the Tinley Park Convention Center!

7 p.m. December 22nd

Trans-Siberian Orchestra-inspired holiday show by the Christmas Wizards with angelic choir, snow machines, a state-of-the-art light show and more!

VisitTinleyPark.com

1-1/2 acre short-game area; restaurant, pro shop, and PGA level lessons by GolfTEC. For every golfer a Gift Certificate is the perfect option. For the serious golfer, our Unlimited Driving Range Membership is this year’s most popular gift. Located at 353 N. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016. 847-803GOLF (4653) www.GolfCenterDesPlaines.com The 2023 Cup of Cheer™ The Cup of CheerTM House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea is the Naperville Garden Club’s major fundraiser. The proceeds fund scholarships and Club programs. Tickets allow entry to four area homes decorated for the holidays and a holiday market and tea located at the Naperville VFW. Featuring Elmhurst Choral Union 11 am – 1 pm both days at the Holiday Market. Tickets are $60 for November 30th and $45 for December 1st. Tickets purchased in groups of ten are given a 10% discount when purchased through Barbara. Non-ticketed public admitted to shop the Market from noon to 4 pm Dec 1st only. More information and ticket sales through the Club’s website: www.napervillegardenclub. org. Or call Barbara at 630-650-4405.

Holiday Happenings in Downtown Downers Grove Shop our unique boutiques, warm up at one of many restaurants and enjoy all the holiday events. The fun starts with Small Business Weekend, Thanksgiving Weekend. Vote for your favorite Holiday Window & your favorite Gingerbread House adorning participating businesses windows. Participate in the Gingerbread Man Hunt around the downtown, kids receive a prize upon completion. Enjoy complimentary visits with Santa in his Gingerbread House, Saturdays & Sundays, 1-4pm. Don’t forget to save your receipts for Candy Cane Cash Rewards! All the festive details can be found at downtowndg.org.

Golf Center Des Plaines, Golf Center Des Plaines, ranked one of the Top 50 Ranges in the country, is Chicagoland’s premier year-round practice facility. Golfers of all levels enjoy lighted and heated hitting stations with automatic ball tee-up; a fully-lighted 9-hole course;

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! Reindeer flight school training sessions. Lots of magical photo opportunities! 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 $16 per person. 3088 Flora Rd. Belvidere, IL. Visit www.summerfieldfarmandzoo.com for more information and tickets! Bensenville Park District’s Holiday Events Celebrate the holiday season with the Bensenville Park District, starting with the Nov. 18 Golf Sticks & Drumsticks Golf Scramble at White Pines Golf Club! Experience the charm of Farmside Christmas from 2-5 pm. Dec. 3 at Fischer Farm. Enjoy Breakfast with Santa on December 16-17 at White Pines. Showcase your baking skills at the Dec. 18 Christmas Cookie Bake-Off at DGLC Oak Room. Get into the holiday spirit with Holiday Zumba and Mimosa Brunch Dec. 23 at the Pine Room. And finish 2023 strong at the December 29 New Year’s Zumba Bash. Visit www.BvilleParks.org for details. Holiday Cheer in Downtown Elgin Downtown Elgin kicks off the holiday shopping season with a Holiday Cheers beverage crawl at 20+ locations around downtown Elgin on November 25. Shop on Small Business Saturday while enjoying holidaythemed beverages in a custom, insulated cup. Enjoy Hot Cocoa, Warm Apple Cider, Ponche Navideño, Mint Mochas, and more! Also, look for 15 beautifully decorated windows featuring holiday artwork in downtown storefronts. Roaming entertainment, Santa, a Holiday Pop Up Market, Krampus Crawl, Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, and more are also in the works! www.downtownelgin.com/hollydays Winter Lights at Central Park Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the 1/2 mile walk through the beautifully lit Central Park, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Discover dancing trees, colorful rainbow arches, cascading snowflakes, dazzling twirling icicles, vibrantly colored butterflies, and musical hearts throughout this scenic walk. This walk is FREE to the community every evening from November 23rd - January 7th during the hours of 4:30-9:30 PM at Central Park -1500 Forest Gate Rd. Oak Brook. www.obparks.org

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November/December 2023

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Christ Community Church ‘Tis the season for fun and celebration at Christ Community Church. Join one of five suburban campuses (Aurora, DeKalb, Huntley, St. Charles/ South Elgin & Streamwood) for festive fun all throughout December. In addition to Christmas Eve services, you don’t want to miss a free interview event and a bonus ticketed concert with Amazon’s 2023 Breakthrough Artist, Blessing Offor. Learn more–and hear Christ Community’s new original Christmas song, “King of the Angels” at ccclife.org/december. Dinosaur Exhibition at the Dunn Museum Imaginations will work overtime when visiting the Dunn Museum’s special exhibition, Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed. The exhibit in Libertyville explores bones and fossils belonging to the giant creatures that once roamed the earth. Visitors can view and even touch six full dinosaur skeletal molds including a Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus rex and Velociraptor. The exhibition runs through Jan. 15 at the nationally accredited Museum, operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves. Hours and admission prices are listed at www.LCFPD.org/museum.

Elk Grove Park District’s Adventures Embrace the magic of winter, your snowy adventures await at Elk Grove Park District. Spend this season connecting with family, friends, and neighbors at craft shows, holiday events, music nights and more! Elk Grove Park District’s signature events include Run Fox Run, Breakfast with Santa, Polar Express, Snowflake Swim, Santa Paws, and the Happy New Year’s Bash. Some events require pre-registration and fee. Plan your visit at elkgroveparks.org. Holiday Homecoming The most magical time of the year in St. Charles, IL – Holiday Homecoming. This two-day event kicks-off with the Lighting of the Lights Ceremony on Friday, November 24th at 5pm, featuring a special guest from the North Pole, and photo opportunities to capture a memory.The next morning, enjoy a free screening of a holiday movie at Arcada Theatre at 10am, and support local during the Shop Crawl that takes place through Sunday. This culminates to the Electric Christmas Parade Saturday at 5:30pm, where you can admire all the beautiful floats travel down Main Street! Visit www.stcholidayhomecoming.com to learn more.

Celebrate the Holiday Season & Dine in Naperville! Hungry for holiday hotspots for family meals this year? Whatever you’re looking for this holiday season, you can find it in Naperville. We’ve even got a free Dining Guide ready for you to make your restaurant selections as easy as pie. Search by category, find your favorites by name, or take your family somewhere new for a holiday treat. The dining guide features one-of-a-kind eateries as well as classic favorites. Find every meal, from breakfast to lunch to dinner to a late-night snack in Naperville. Go to www.DineNaperville.com to find more information on our 300 restaurants! Village of Lemont Spend some time in Lemont Downtown during the holidays and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark Christmas movie. It’s filled with unique boutiques where you will find giftable treasures, eclectic restaurants to please any palate, and holiday lights around every walkable corner.Take a stroll down Candy Cane Lane and capture that perfect family photo with our many interactive light displays. Explore the full calendar of holiday events at www.LightingUpLemont.com. Naper Settlement’s Holly Jolly Days Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season as you listen to holiday stories, make crafts, snap a family photo at the Victorian Christmas photo stop, and more at Naper Settlement’s Holly Jolly Days. Explore the exhibit, Santas Around the World, to see the fascinating characters who populate the lore surrounding the celebrations that come at the darkest time of the year. The exhibit also discusses the origins of some of our favorite holiday traditions. For more information, visit www.NaperSettlement.org

DECEMBER 8 & 15 | 3-8 PM DECEMBER 9 & 16 | 12-8 PM $5/Person, Free for Children Under 4

Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season with holiday crafts, stories, and more at Holly Jolly Days! For tickets and more information, visit:

NaperSettlement.org/HollyJollyDays SPECIAL HOLIDAY EXHIBIT DECEMBER 6-JANUARY 5 Included in General Admission

Sponsored by Ron & Claudia Stenger

Funtopia Naperville At Funtopia we believe in movement – in being active, both physically and mentally, while genuinely enjoying what you do and having fun. Moving is all about finding an activity that works for you – conquer the heights of the Fun Walls, balance through the Ropes Course elements, compete on the Ninja course, or slide down. Regardless of the direction or the speed you move, we guarantee – you will Have Fun and Be Active! Funtopia Naperville is located in Westridge Court • 2639 Aurora Ave, Naperville • 630-718-4327 Naperville. funtopiaworld.com (See our ad on p. 58.)

NaperSettlement.org 523 S. Webster St. • Naperville, IL | 630.420.6010

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November/December 2023

Explore the bones and fossils belonging to the giant creatures that once roamed the earth! View and touch six full dinosaur skeletal molds including a Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus rex and Velociraptor. Stand next to a 6-foot-1-inch Apatosaurus femur, or view molds of skulls, arms, legs, eggs and footprints in this interactive exhibition. Sponsored by:

Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves

Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed was conceptualized by the Arkansas Discovery Network, a unique, six-museum partnership, of which the Dunn Museum is a member.

November/December 2023

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Trails Entertainment Centers Trails Entertainment Centers offers three amazing venues – Enchanted Castle Family Entertainment Center in Lombard, which is an all-indoor facility, and Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Centers located in Burbank and Joliet, which feature both indoor and outdoor attractions. Each location offers a unique variety of games, miniature golf, gokarts, amusement rides and other special attractions. Special discounted rates are available for birthday parties, group outings and corporate picnics & events. For more information visit www.trailsfunparks.com

Frosty Fest Free event taking place Saturday, December 2nd from 4pm – 7pm in Downtown West Chicago. Enjoy the special tree lighting ceremony and visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus.Take a ride through the downtown on the horse-drawn trolley or the electric train. Other special activities will include an ice sculptor demo, reindeer, and alpacas. Stop by the craft and food vendors and enjoy your meal in the heated tent! Visit www.westchicago. org/frosty-fest/ for more details.

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Holiday Fun … in Downtown Naperville! With dozens of family-friendly holiday events, plus over 100 shops, 50 restaurants, spas, beauty, art and fitness, Downtown Naperville is the perfect place to bring your family this holiday season. Twinkling lights, Letters to Santa Mailbox, Hidden Elves in windows, Painted Holiday Windows, holiday parade and more … Downtown Naperville is the perfect family destination. Looking for a fan favorite gift? Downtown Naperville gift cards are a great choice! For use at over 150 shops, restaurants, and spas, they allow the lucky recipient to choose where they want to use it. No fees to purchase and free shipping too. For details on all Downtown Naperville holiday happenings, a directory of businesses and information on gift cards, visit www.downtownnaperville.com - we welcome you!

November/December 2023

Embrace the Magic of Winter: Your Snowy Adventures Await! Martinstag

Murder Mystery & Dinner

Fri, November 10 • 6-8pm

Fri, November 17 • 6-9pm

Run Fox Run Sat, November 25 • 8am

Museum Campus, 399 Biesterfield Rd.

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Fox Run Golf Links, 333 Plum Grove Rd.

Join us for St. Martin’s Day, a traditional German celebration. Children will decorate their own lanterns, parade around the Museum grounds and enjoy treats!

Get ready to become a detective for a night and solve the ultimate whodunit at this 1920’s interactive murder mystery event. Dinner will be served and includes roasted chicken, salad and a dessert. A Cash Bar will be available.

Gather your family and friends for this holiday tradition and join us for our Run Fox Run 5k. Run or walk, this is the perfect way to get outside and have some fun!

Holiday Bazaar

Breakfast with Santa

Fri & Sat, December 1 & 2 • 9am-2pm

Holiday Music Celebration

Fox Run Golf Links, 333 Plum Grove Rd.

Sat, December 2 • 9-11am

December 23 • 7-11pm

225 E. Elk Grove Blvd.

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Get into the holiday spirit while shopping at our annual Holiday Bazaar! Bring the whole family for a photo opportunity with the Grinch on Sat, Dec 2 from 10-12pm. Food and $1 Raffle tickets will be available for purchase. Free entry.

Enjoy a buffet style breakfast with and a family photo with Santa. Children will receive a small token from Santa and are welcome to deliver any holiday letter they may have directly to him.

Reindeer Games

Holiday Gift Show

Polar Express

Wed, December 6 • 6-7pm

Sat, December 9 • 9am-1pm

Sat, December 9 • times vary

Get ready for fun as we take the Reindeer Olympics Challenge. Participants will compete in many different reindeer games to win prizes. See if you can make it on the leader board to win the grand prize!

Shop up to 30 vendors showcasing items for home decor, jewelry, accessories and dozens of unique one-of-a-kind gifts. Vendors must register by November 17 to secure a space. Contact sclift@elkgroveparks. org for a Vendor Application. Admission is FREE!

We will meet and board the train at the Itasca Metra station to embark on a fun filled adventure to the North Pole. Stories will be read, a snack will be served and children will have a chance to visit with Santa! Guests will receive a confirmation letter in the mail prior to the trip. Children 12 months and up must purchase a ticket.

Snowflake Swim

Santa Paws

Happy New Year’s Bash

Sat, December 16 • 1-3pm

Sat, December 16 • 10-11am Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Join us at the Pavilion Aquatics Center for a family swim! Activities include crafts and games. Adults must register with child.

Bring your furry friends to our doggie Santa event. Let your dog create a special holiday craft at our Santa’s workshop station. All families will receive a souvenir picture with Santa and a goody bag. Dogs must be leashed; retractable leashes are not allowed.

Ring in the New Year with the ones you love most! Enjoy music, dancing, ice cream sundaes, photo booth, balloon drop and more! Spend the end of 2023 making memories that will last a lifetime!

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Rob Post Band

December 28 • 7-10pm

Tony Ocean Birthday Celebration

Winter Music Dates

January 20 • February 17 • March 23

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave.

Fri, December 29 • 5-7pm

For more information, visit elkgroveparks.org November/December 2023

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NOVEMBER Lombard Christmas Mart – 11/4. 9AM-2PM. Art and craft fair inside various downtown churches and other locations. Downtown Lombard. lombardhistory.org A Holiday Happening Craft and Art Fair – 11/4-5. Over 175 booths. College of DuPage Athletic Arena,

Glen Ellyn. craftproductionsinc.com Holiday Sip and Shop – 11/9. Wine and spirits tasting at Morton Arboretum. Tickets include unlimited 1 oz. pours provided by Famous Liquors. Lisle. Mortonarb.org It’s Thanksgiving Downers Grove – 11/11. 9:15AM2:15PM. Enjoy snacks and crafts with some special characters at Lincoln Center, Register for time slots. dgparks.org Fill the Bowls Holiday Fundraiser – Noon-3PM. Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry hosts its annual fundraiser at Two Brothers Roadhouse. Mariewilkinsonfoodpantry.com Tree Trim at Brookfield Zoo – 11/11-12. 10AM4:30PM. Families and groups can sponsor a tree to decorate that will be on display. Brookfield. Register at CZS.org/TreeTrim

NOVEMBER 23 JANUARY 7 4:30-9:30PM FREE 1/2 MILE WALK AT THE OAK BROOK PARK DISTRICT PAVED ACCESSIBLE PATH VISIT WWW.OBPARKS.ORG TO LEARN MORE! Oak Brook

Park District A National Gold Medal Agency

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Finding Nemo Children’s Theatre of Elgin – 11/1719. 7:30PM and 2PM Sunday. Immerse yourself in the world of Dr. Seuss at Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin. Cityofelgin.org Willow Hills Lights Drive-Thru – 11/17-1/6/24. 5PM. Includes breathtaking nativity scene, Toyland, and 250 Ft. animated tunnel. Northbrook. Willowhillpark.com Holiday Folk Fair International – 11/17-19. Cultures from around the world can showcase their traditions and heritage at the Wisconsin. The Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. Milwaukee. Folkfair.org Winter Lights – 11/17. Kick off the holiday season with a festive parade at 6PM along Downer Place, fireworks, and photos with Santa. Visit shops at a Winter Market featuring local artisans. 6-9 PM. Free. Aurora. auroradowntown.org Christmas Around the World – 11/18-1/4. The Museum of Science and Industry continues its beloved suburban family | subfam.com

annual exhibit. Over 50 trees will be displayed. Msichicago.org Deck the Green – 11/17. 5-7PM. Village Green at the Burr Ridge Village Center has pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Burr Ridge. burr-ridge.gov Santa’s Rock ‘N’ Lights – 11/18-1/1. Drive-through animated lights show Lake County Fairgrounds. Grayslake. santasrocknlights.com Christkindlmarket Chicago – 11/17-12/24. Traditional holiday market offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events, Daley Plaza. Christkindlmarket.com Christkindlmarket Aurora – 11/17-12/24. 11AM7PM. RiverEdge Park is home to this traditional market featuring international and local vendors. Aurora. Enjoyaurora.com City of Chicago Christmas Tree – 11/17. Watch the lighting of Chicago’s “official” Christmas tree In-Person at Millennium Park 6PM. Chicago.gov A Dicken’s of a Holiday Craft Show – 11/18. Find unique, handcrafted holiday gifts. FREE. 9AM-3PM. Darien Park District Community Center. Darienparks.com Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival – 11/18. Tree lighting ceremony at 4PM on Friday at Centennial Plaza. Disney themed parade with floats, marching bands and performers on Saturday. The Magnificent Mile, Chicago. themagnificentmile.com Lincoln Park ZooLights – 11/17-1/7. 4:30-10PM. A twinkling winter wonderland with ice sculptors and festive activities. Sensory-friendly visit times. Chicago. Lpzoo.org Wintersong 2023 – 11/17, 7:30PM and 11/18, 3PM. Enjoy the performance of The Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale and accompanying Children’s Chorus. Elmhurst November/December 2023

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Christian Reformed Church. Elmhurst. gewchorale.org Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum – 11/18-1/6. View 50 acres of majestic trees glowing with special effects and events along a wooded, one-mile path. Timed entry tickets. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. mortonarb.org. Lights of Love Memorial Tribute – 11/22. 5PM. Gather family and friends to honor and celebrate at Rialto Square Theater. Joliet. Lightways.org Naper Lights – 11/23-1/1. Holiday light display and synchronized music, winter wonder land at Water Street. Naperville. Downtownnaperville.com Santa’s Village Holiday Drive-Thru – 11/24-12/23. Enjoy over 3-million lights from the comfort of your own car. Attendees can also park and take part in fun activities. East Dundee. Santasvillagedundee.com Festival of Lights – 11/24-12/25. Aurora’s Festival of Lights is the largest free drive-through holiday light display in the region. Phillips Park. Aurora. Enjoyaurora.com Tree Lighting Ceremony – 11/24. At the Main Street train station on Friday at 4:30PM. Downers Grove. Events.downers.us Festival of Lights Parade – 11/24. Parade with Santa, lights, music, and pageantry. 7-9PM. Downtown Crystal Lake. downtowncl.org

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Light Up the Holidays Festival and Parade – 11/24. Parade, fireworks, tree lighting and activities. 10AM- 7:30PM. Downtown Joliet. jolietccp.com

Fox Valley Nutcracker – 11/25-26. Showcasing professional and local dancers. Tickets. Batavia Fine Arts Center, Batavia. foxvalleynutcracker.com

Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic – 11/24-26, 30, 12/1-3, 12/7-10, 12/14-17, 12/21-23, 12/26-31. 3-9PM. Chicagoland’s longest running lights festival with over One-Million LED Lights and much more. Advance tickets required. Brookfield. CZS.org/Events

Mistletoe Medley - 11/28. Fun and Festive Holiday Fundraiser with a luncheon and fashion show. 9AM3PM. Drury Lane, Oak Brook. oakbrookchapterinfantwelfare.org

The Electric Christmas Parade – 11/25. Lighting of Lights on Friday at 5PM. Free Holiday movie at the Acadia at 10AM. Music, holiday movies, sleigh rides, lighted parade on Saturday. St. Charles. stcholidayhomecoming.com Festival of Lights and Tree Sales – 11/24-12/31. Cosley Zoo is transformed with 20,000 twinkling lights, spectacular displays, a selection of Christmas trees for purchase, hot chocolate and gifts. 9AM-9PM daily. Wheaton. cosleyzoo.org Happy Holiday Railway Santa Trains – 11/24-26, 12/2-3, 12/9-10, and 12/16-17 and 12/22-23. All Aboard for the North Pole. Santa, hot chocolate and cookies on the train. Illinois Railway Museum. Union, IL irm.org Holiday Craft Fair – 11/25-26. The Nature Center becomes a festive holiday gift shop for 2 days with vendors and handcrafted items. 10AM-4PM. Schaumburg. Parkfun.com

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Cup of Cheer – 11/30-12/1. Naperville Garden Club’s House Walk, Holiday Market & Tea. Tour 4 decorated homes and receive a commemorative teacup and saucer. 11AM-1PM napervillegardenclub.org Artisan Gift Sale – 11/30-12/5. Start you Holiday gift shopping at the Artisan Gift Sale presented by Fine Line Creative Arts. St. Charles. Fineline.org Weed Ladies Floral Sales – 11/30, 12/1, 12/7-8. 10AM-3:30PM. Featuring holiday-themed floral arrangements and accessories. Naper Settlement, Naperville. napersettlement.org/weedladies

DECEMBER North Pole Holiday Spectacular – 12/1, 6:30PM; 12/2, 1PM and 3:45PM. Family event with a Holiday themed musical show, games, cookie decorating and Santa. Community Rec Center, Schaumburg. Parkfun.com Annual Hinsdale Christmas Walk – 12/1. Tree

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lighting, treats, ice carvers, Santa, carousel, trackless train and sing-a-longs. 5-7PM. Hinsdale. hinsdalechamber.com Homer for the Holidays – 12/1-12/31. Experience the holiday lights display in Heritage Park during the month of December. Bring your letters to Santa for the Santa Box located in the park. Homer Glen. Homerglenil.org Palatine Concert Band Holiday Concert – 12/1. 7-9:30PM. The Palatine Concert Band performs a selection of traditional and contemporary works for band. Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center. Palatine. Palatineparks.org Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm – 12/1 and weekends in December. 2-7PM. Take a magical ride on the Holiday Express train! Decorations, reindeer food bar, hay wagon rides. Blackberry Farm, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Holiday Market in Tinley Park – 12/1-3. Stroll in cozy warmth in a heated tent in Zabrocki Plaza for unique handmade crafts and creations. Tasty treats and entertainers, too. tinleypark.org Cocoa Crawl – 12/1. 5-9PM. Celebrate the winter season with toasty hot cocoa in a custom mg at several participating venue. Downtown Aurora. Aurora-il.org

Festival of Lights – 12/1. Sparkling display in Old Town Park and Old Town Bloomingdale, with carriage rides, crafts, refreshments, photos with Santa and story-time. Bloomingdale. villageofBloomingdale.org Holiday House Tour – 12/1-2. View decorated local homes for self-guided tours. 10AM-5PM. Genevachamber.com Holiday Lights Festival – 12/1-2. Drive through lights display. Festival dates 12/2-3, 5-8PM. Romeoville Village Hall and Police Station. Romeoville.org Hanover Park Tree Lighting Ceremony – 12/2. Santa, hot chocolate bar, live reindeer, mini train rides, arts/crafts, games, and s’mores. 5:30PM. hanoverparkillinois.org Christmas Walk – 12/2. Festivities include the arrival of Santa Lucia and Santa, the lighting of the tree, carolers. 6-9:30 PM. Downtown Geneva. genevachamber.com Sip Local with Brewpoint Coffee – 12/2. 11AM1PM. Listen to holiday-themed live music and a short lecture: Behind the Scenes: Marshall Fields and Christmas. Elmhurst. Elmhursthistory.org Holiday Lights at Lilacia Park – 12/2-1/1. 4:3010PM. Enjoy light shows, tree decorations, a gingerbread house and more. Jingle Bell Jubilee and lighting

ceremony on 12/2. Lombard. lombardparks.com Lemont’s Hometown Holiday – 12/2. The treelighting ceremony at 5PM. Kids crafts, caroling and more. Lighting Up Lemont, the Village’s light display throughout the downtown area all month long. Lemont. lemontdowntown.com Santa at the Gazebo – 12/2 and 12/9. 1-3PM. Stop by Millennium Plaza for a photo with Santa. Aurora. Aurora-il.org Westmont Holly Days – 12/2-31. 5-7PM. Monthlong festival in Downtown Westmont starts with the Frosty & Friends Parade, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, downtown business open houses, treats and more. Westmont. hollydaysfestival.com Jingle Bell Jubilee – 12/2. See holiday lights, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, hear stories, listen to carolers, and more! Tree lighting 5:30PM. Lombard. lombardparks.com Once Upon a Christmas – 12/2. Purchase gifts in the Heritage Society Gift Shop. 3-7PM. The Museums at Lisle Station Park. Lisle, lisleparkdistrict.org Santa’s Workshop – 12/2. A holiday store just for kids at Wilder Mansion. Open to the public from 1-4PM. Elmhurst. Epd.org Winter Wonderland Frosty Fest – 12/2. 6-8PM. DJ, Santa and Rudolph and friends, dancing, photos,

' Tis the Season to

SHOP, DINE & ENJOY DOWNTOWN DOWNERS GROVE Small Business Weekend November 24-26, 2023

Complimentary Wagonette Rides November 26, 2023, 1-4pm

Gingerbread House Contest November 24-December 3, 2023

Holiday Window Contest November 24-December 10, 2023 Holiday Caroling

Saturdays & Sundays (November 25-December 17, 2023)

Candy Cane Cash Rewards

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Be rewarded for supporting local businesses. November 24-December 31, 2023

Complimentary Visits with Santa

Saturdays & Sundays, 1-4pm (November 25-December 17, 2023)

rs w Do wne e Do Grov 22 out & about

Gingerbread Man Hunt November 24-December 23, 2023

Merry Madness

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December 14, 2023

downtowndg.org November/December 2023

November/December 2023

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games and treats! Registration required. Tinley Park. tinleyparkdistrict.org Winterfest –12/2. 10AM – 3PM. Downtown Oak Park Winterfest activities and Cookie Walk. downtownoakpark.net The St. Nick’s Mart – 12/2. Come shop the wares of local crafters and small Villa Park businesses. 5-8PM. Villa Park Public Library, Villa Park. vppl.info LaGrange Holiday Walk – 12/2. Kick off a month of Holiday magic and Holiday shopping. Downtown LaGrange. lgba.chambermaster.com Holiday Hoopla – 12/3. 1-3PM. Kids’ games, crafts, and photos with Santa at the Community Recreation Center. Wheeling. Wheelingparkdistrict.com Farmside Christmas – 12/3. 2-5PM. Holiday fun with ice sculptors, reindeer, holiday crafts, and treats around the bonfire. Tree lighting at 4:30PM. Bensenville. Bvilleparks.org Parade of Lights – 12/3. 5PM. Photos with Santa 4-8PM., carriage rides and musical entertainment. Tinley Park. tinleypark.org Woodland Santa Holiday Workshop – 12/3. Watch Santa pulled by his dashing huskies and help him get ready for his big day. Make a craft and have a picture taken with the Big Guy. Santa arrives at 10:45AM. St. Charles. Stcparks.org

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Holiday Bedtime Stories – 12/5 and 12/7. Bring PJs, a stuffed toy and blanket for a night of Christmas songs, stories and a visit from Santa. 5:30-6:45PM and 7:15-8:30 PM. Barrington Park District. Register barringtonparkdistrict.org Tree Lighting at Wilder Park – 12/7. 5:307:30PM. Countdown with us to the tree lighting ceremony and enjoy the festivities and food trucks. Elmhurst. Epd.org One of a Kind Holiday Show – 12/7-10. Hundreds of talented artists, makers and designers will set up shop at The Mart. Chicago. oneofakindshowchicago.com A Very West Towns Christmas – 12/9-10. 2:30PM. Listen to Christmas Classics to set the mood for the most wonderful time of the year. Timothy Christian School. Elmhurst. Tix.com Holiday Walk and Festival of Windows – 12/9. 6-7PM. Window displays, open houses, horse-drawn carriages, the Clauses, and more. Forest Park. Exploreforestpark.com Santa Paws – 12/9. 10AM-12PM. Bring your pooch for a photo with Santa. Clayson House Museum and Library, Palatine. Palatineparks.org Merry and Bright: A Victorian Christmas – 12/9. 3-7PM. Victorian Christmas traditions, tour of the

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house and a luminary walk with Victorian-era carolers. Visit with Santa. Register. Downers Grove Museum. Dgparks.org Holiday Spectacular – 12/9-10. Celebrate the holidays with the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and Elgin Master Chorale. Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin. Elginsymphony.org Holiday Market –Grayslake Antique and Flea Market – 12/9-10. 9AM-3PM. Antique flea market, estate jewelry, collectibles, comic, furniture and much more. Grayslake. zurkopromotions.com Christmas in the Valley – 12/9-10. 12-4PM. Experience the holiday season as it was in 1880s. Enjoy treats, crafts and beverages around a bonfire. Heritage Farm, Schaumburg. Parkfun.com Candy Cane Hunt – 12/9. Bags will be provided for the goodies you find. A visitor from North Pole, too. Check for times. Community Park Bandshell, Lisle. Register. lisleparkdistrict.org Iceland Santa Skate – 12/10. 2:30–4PM. Enjoy a family skate with Santa and his elves to holiday music. Iceland, Niles Park District. niles-parks.org. Flashlight Candy Cane Hike – 12/15. Explore the woods and prairie to solve a puzzle and receive a goody bag. Head to Hickory Knolls for warm beverages and a craft. St. Charles. Stparks.org

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Pizza with Santa – 12/15. Pizza, soda, craft, games, bounce house. Children of all ages with an adult. Register by 12/10. 6-7PM. Darien. Darienparks.com Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt – 12/15. 6-7PM. All ages. Bundle up, grab a flashlight and search for candy canes throughout the forest at Winston Woods Park. Bolingbrook. Bolingbrookparks.org Fox City Antique and Holiday Flea Market – 12/16. 8AM-4PM. Antique flea market, estate jewelry, collectibles, comic, furniture and much more. Fox City. zurkopromotions.com Parkie’s Reindeer Games – 12/16. Swimming in a pool with melted snowmen and pics with Parkie. Arts, crafts and games. Pelican Harbor Indoor Aquatic Park. 9-11:30AM. Bolingbrookparks.org

CHRISTMAS TOWN AT

SUMMERFIELD ZOO MAKE CHRISTMAS MEMORIES! Lots of magical photo opportunities, including live reindeer!

Visit Santa’s Reindeer Barn with his team of live reindeer.

Visit with Santa Claus. (Times available on website.)

Reindeer flight school training sessions. Kids will earn an official stable elf diploma! Grab a delicious snack at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen Snack Shop. Purchase Christmas gifts at the Flying Reindeer Gift Shop ADMISSION IS $16 PER PERSON. PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE.

WWW.SUMMERFIELDFARMANDZOO.COM 3088 FLORA RD. BELVIDERE, IL

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Holly Jolly Harmonies – 12/17. Festive creations by that complement a selection of popular medleys for the season. All ages. 2:00 and 4:00 PM. Wentz Concert Hall, Naperville. dupagesymphony.org Winter Solstice Sunrise Concert – 12/21-23. 6-7:45AM. Hamid Drake and Michael Zerang celebrate the solstice with 3 consecutive sunrise shows at 6AM each day. Links Hall. Chicago. Choosechicago.com Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt – 12/21. Start with indoor crafts and snacks and move outdoors to hunt candy canes under the moonlight. Bring flashlight or headlamp. Glen Ellyn. Gepark.org New Year’s Beach Ball Drop Pool Party –12/30 and 31. 5:30-7:30PM and 11AM-1PM. Ring in the new year with a beach ball drop countdown. Waterslides, splash zone, music and more. Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora. Foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Noon Year’s Eve Ball – 12/31. Noon Year’s Eve toast, DJ and dancing, snacks a craft and a family photo. Registration required. 10:30AM-12:30PM. Barringtonparkdistrict.org Ultimate New Years Eve Party – 12/31. 5-9PM. Enjoy food, rides and raffles with an early celebration. Safari Land. Villa Park. safarilandfun.com Noon Year’s Eve Party – 12/31. 10AM-12PM. Ring in the new year with bounce houses, dancing, photo ops, crafts, games and a snack. Salt Creek Sports Center. Palatine. Saltcreekpd.com Happy Noon Year – 12/31. 11AM-12:15PM. Kids will enjoy games, music, balloon drop and sparkling grapejuice toast. Pre-registration is required. Community Rec Center. Wheeling. wheelingparkdistrict.com

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Breakfast with Santa – 12/16-17. Have breakfast with your favorite North Pole man in red. White Pines. Bensenville, bvilleparks.org

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Bubble Bash – 12/31. 9AM-1PM. Explore hands-on exhibits, and count down with confetti, bubbles, and more. DuPage Children’s Museum. Naperville. dupagechildrens.org November/December 2023

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THE NUTCRACKER Returns to the James Lumber Center this December for Three Performances! The quintessential holiday tradition returns to the JLC this December with Ruth Page’s “The Nutcracker.” Originally presented at Chicago’s Arie Crown Theatre from 1965 until 1997, this production recreates Page’s iconic, fulllength ballet. Audiences will be transported to the gorgeous Land of Snow and the magical

Kingdom of the Sweets in this beloved story of a little girl heroine, Clara, her mysterious godfather, playful toy soldiers, daring mice and dancing snowflakes. Performances are Saturday, December 16 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, December 17 at 1 p.m.Tickets are $26 regular; $23 for Seniors 65+/military; and $15 for students from any school.

Tickets are also now on sale for the JLC’s exciting spring 2024 season, including the Fleetwood Mac tribute band, Second Hand News; a comedy show with WGN sports personality Pat Tomasulo; virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain and special guests in a glorious concert of Indian classical music; and so much more.

Don’t miss this joyous, family-friendly performance!

For more information and to buy tickets online, visit www.jlcenter.clcillinois.edu; by phone at 847543-2300 or at the JLC Box Office at 19351 West Washington St., Grayslake. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

A VERY WEST TOWNS CHRISTMAS West Towns Chorus You’re invited to hear West Towns Chorus, the premier men’s barbershop chorus of the West Chicagoland area, as we present our annual Christmas Show - A VERY WEST TOWNS CHRISTMAS – in two performances! We will be joined by Chicago Bronze Handbells, Affinity Strings & additional singers to present our annual Christmas show that is not to be missed. Dates: December 9 & 10 at 2:30pm Location: Timothy Christian Schools, 188 West Butterfield Road, Elmhurst, IL, 60126 Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/wtcchristmas2023

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Broadway in Chicago Looking for the perfect gift this holiday season? Broadway In Chicago has you covered! With a full line up of family friendly shows like the mind-blowing spectacular showcase The Illusionists - Magic of the Holidays, the unforgettable assortment of Yuletide recollections in Christmas with C.S. Lewis, the holiday mash-up for the whole family The Hip Hop Nutcracker featuring MC Kurtis Blow, and the record-setting Broadway holiday sensation Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical along with the revolutionary hit show Hamilton, the World Premiere of Boop! The Musical, the Pre-Broadway Chicago Premiere of the new revival of The Wiz and the international percussion sensation STOMP, Broadway In Chicago has a wonderful selection for everyone that makes a great gift or a fun trip for all ages to the theatre. Can’t decide? Broadway In Chicago gift certificates make a fantastic last-minute present! Visit BroadwayInChicago.com for tickets or email groups@broadwayinchicago.com for groups of 10 or more! Home for the Holidays at the Rialto Make yourself at home this holiday season at the

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Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, IL. Their “Home for the Holidays” celebration lineup includes family-friendly shows and holiday favorites. Family Friendly Their family-friendly events range from the Teddy Bear Tea Party which includes a keepsake teddy bear and an appearance by St. Nick himself, to a visit to Santa’s Secret workshop, where your children can create a homemade present. You can also listen to a radio broadcast of It’s a Wonderful Life live on stage! Holiday Favorites Kick off the holiday season at the Rialto as they illuminate their Christmas decorations with a Very Rialto Christmas Making Merry Music! Or journey through the land of whirling snowflakes and visit the kingdom of the Sugar Plum fairy with the family favorite The Nutcracker. You can also spend a day at the Rialto watching classic Christmas movies such as Elf, Home Alone, or Polar Express. No matter how you choose to celebrate the Holidays, you can find a home at the Rialto Square Theatre with its heartwarming events that allow you to create memories with your children

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or allow you to relive your childhood memories. www.rialtosquare.com/holidays/

learn

more about their lineup. The Nutcracker on Ice Creative Ice Theatre One of the most beloved stories of all time and a holiday favorite, The Nutcracker has enchanted audiences worldwide. On Christmas Eve, young Clara receives a nutcracker which magically comes to life to wage a battle against the evil Mouse King. The transformed Nutcracker Prince and Clara travel to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy rewards their bravery with a spectacular celebration. Experience this story, presented now as a figure skating extravaganza, for the first time or all over again at Seven Bridges Ice Arena, where our Christkindlmarket-themed lobby will be offering seasonal entertainment, decor and holiday delicacies. Share The Nutcracker on Ice with someone you love this holiday season. Performances are scheduled on Dec. 16th & 17th. Seven Bridges Ice Arena , 6690 Illinois Route 53, Woodridge, IL. Tickets start at just $25. Get yours today at www.creativeicetheatre.com

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Denny Diamond Entertainment Denny Diamond is an exceptional vocalist known for his captivating performances and remarkable vocal range. For years, Denny has established himself as a true musical talent. His smooth and soulful voice resonates with audiences, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Denny’s versatility shines through as he effortlessly transitions between genres with equal finesse. What sets Denny apart is his ability to beautifully interpret and breathe new life into classic songs. Whether he’s performing hits from the legendary Neil Diamond or other iconic artists, Denny’s renditions are filled with passion and authenticity. His stage presence is magnetic, drawing the audience in and leaving them mesmerized by his powerful vocals and heartfelt performances. Denny Diamond’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional music make him a cherished artist among fans. His talent and love for performing shine brightly, making Denny a true gem in the world of vocalists.

CINDERELLA at Drury Lane Theatre In a faraway world where dreams have no bounds, a young woman dared to desire a life straight from a storybook. Now, Cinderella, the symbol of unwavering kindness in challenging times, steps into a captivating tale brought to life by Rodgers + Hammerstein’s timeless Broadway musical. Join us as we embark on a magical journey, where beloved tunes like “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago” promise to enchant families of all generations like never before. Don’t miss the chance to experience enchantment and wonder this holiday season as Cinderella’s story unfolds on our stage at Drury Lane Theatre. Mark your calendars for the show’s run from November 8th to January 7th, and visit www.DruryLaneTheatre. com today to secure your tickets.

For all inquiries visit www.DennyDiamond.com

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day matinee, we will be hosting The Sugar Plum Party, an annual family favorite event. We will also be having our annual Nutcracker Boutique. Shop for some amazing Nutcracker themed holiday decor and ornaments. Purchase tickets at: vivenu.com/ seller/salt-creek-ballet-l288 The Nutcracker Salt Creek Ballet

‘Tis the Season for Great Entertainment at Genesee Theatre

Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition for our community. As SCB celebrates 38 years of Excellence in Dance, please join us for our very special presentation of The Nutcracker, including many celebrated Guest Artists. November 25th at 2PM + 7PM and, November 26th at 1PM at Hinsdale Central High School’s Auditorium. This show is appropriate for children ages 4 and up. Join us as Clara and the Nutcracker battle the Mouse King, dance through the Kingdom of Snow, and beyond to the Kingdom of Sweets. Santa Claus will once again be joining us for our Saturday shows, so make sure to come and get pictures with Santa! Following the Sun-

The Genesee Theatre has holiday shows for all! On Saturday, November 18, sibling trio and winner of The Voice, Girl Named Tom, celebrate the holidays with original songs and yuletide tunes. The meaning of Christmas comes alive in A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage on Sunday, November 19. On Thursday, November 30, Chris Isaak rocks The Genesee stage, bringing a Christmas flair to his rockabilly roots. Two legends collide when Amy Grant & Michael W. Smith perform an evening of holiday classics on Friday, December 1. A high-flying spectacular adventure awaits on Saturday, December 2, with Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. The Genesee’s favor-

Experience the Grammy Award Winning Vocal Ensemble

NEW YORK VOICES

ite holiday tradition, The Magic of The Nutcracker, returns on Thursday, December 21 and Friday, December 22! Our full line-up can be found at www.geneseetheatre.com. Tickets on sale now and new shows are put on sale every week! Tickets are available on Ticketmaster and by visiting The Genesee Theatre Box Office. Moraine Valley Fine and Performing Arts Center Moraine Valley Fine and Performing Arts Center is celebrating 30 years of arts! We have events for the whole family, including Moraine Chorale and Chamber Singers’ Merry Christmas Music, The Magic of Bill Blagg LIVE, DRUM TAO,Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience, the always entertaining Moraine Valley Percussion Ensemble, and much more. Get tickets at morainevalley.edu/fpac/tickets or contact the box office Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 708-974-5500. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Marriott Theatre The Tony and Grammy Award-winning Broadway mega-hit, which has thrilled audiences with the inspiring true story of one woman’s remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, closes out Marriott Theatre’s 2023 Season. Scheduled to run November 8 thru December 31, 2023; Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to tickets.marriotttheatre.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information. (See our ad on Inside Front Cover.)

Holiday Show Saturday, Dec. 9 7:30 p.m.

morainevalley.edu/fpac/tickets

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November/December 2023

GENESEE THE

THE SPOTLIGHT IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Saturday, November 18 7:30 PM

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVE SHOWS! Sunday, November 19 4:00 PM

Thursday, December 21 6:30 PM Friday, December 22 6:30 PM

Saturday, December 2 6:00 PM

"River" and "Winter Wonderland"

Daring Acrobats and Hilarious Hijinks

"Waltz of the Flowers" and "Dance of the Mirlitons"

THE GENESEE THEATRE • 203 NORTH GENESEE STREET, WAUKEGAN, IL GENESEETHEATRE.COM • TICKETMASTER: 800-745-3000 • 847-263-6300

November/December 2023

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family wellness

Preventing Childhood Obesity:

4 Things Families Can Do

hildhood obesity is a complex disease with many contributing factors, including genetics, eating patterns, physical activity levels, and sleep routines. Conditions where we live, learn, work, and play can make healthy eating and getting enough physical activity difficult if these conditions do not support health. About 1 in 5 American children has obesity. Compared to children with healthy weight, children with overweight or obesity are at a higher risk for asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Adults with obesity have higher risks for stroke, many types of cancer, premature death, and mental illness, such as clinical depression and anxiety.

Help your children move more and meet the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans by making it a family affair. Walking the family pet before and after school, riding bikes, and having races in the yard all count toward physical activity. Active chores, such as washing the car, vacuuming a room, or raking leaves, also count. Set Consistent Sleep Routines Good sleep helps prevent type 2 diabetes, obesity, injuries, and problems with attention and behavior. Kids who don’t get enough sleep are at risk for unhealthy weight gain. Researchers are still trying to learn how sleep is linked to weight gain. Some reasons might include causing a child to eat more or to be less physical active because of to lack of energy. How much sleep do kids need? Preschoolers need 11–13 hours of sleep per day, including naps. Children 6–12 years old need 9–12 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night, and youth 13–18 need 8–10 hours. Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, including on weekends, can help children sleep better.

Though there is no one solution to addressing obesity, there are many ways parents and caregivers can help children have a healthy weight and set up lifelong healthy habits at home.

Replace Screen Time with Family Time In young people, too much screen time can lead to poor sleep, weight gain, lower grades in school, and poor mental health. Reducing screen time can free up time for family activities and can remove cues to eat unhealthy food.

Model a Healthy Eating Pattern Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are often less expensive than fresh and still good for you.

Turning screens off an hour before bed and removing screens from children’s bedrooms can help reduce screen time and improve sleep.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends creating a family media plan with examples of how to reduce screen time.

Look for low sodium or no salt added vegetables and fruits packed in 100% fruit juice. Adopting healthy eating patterns as a family helps children reach and maintain a healthy weight as they age. Eating a variety of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean protein foods, and low-fat and fat-free dairy products follows nutrition guidelines and sets your family up for optimal health. Help your children get the nutrients they need by making half their plate fruits and vegetables. Help kids rethink their drink by replacing sugary drinks, such as soda, fruit drinks, and flavored milk, with water, 100% juice, or plain low-fat milk.

Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you’re concerned about potential health risks associated with excess weight. Families can adopt healthy routines together, but they also need supportive environments. Learn more about what can be done to make healthy and active living accessible for everyone.

Move More as a Family Physically active youth have stronger muscles and bones, better cardiovascular fitness, and lower body fat than those who are inactive. Children aged 3–5 years should be physically active throughout the day. Children aged 6–17 years need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. 36 family wellness

Use of the material developed by CDC does not imply endorsement by CDC. More info can be found at cdc.gov suburban family | subfam.com

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senior focus

SENIOR FOCUS • WHAT TO EXPECT AS A CAREGIVER • HELPFUL SOLUTIONS FOR SENIOR LIVING • PROTECT OLDER ADULTS FROM SCAMS AND ABUSE • THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING BALANCE

Sponsored by: Alto Wheaton Expert Insurance Team Carefree Management Senior Tech Support St. Charles Park District Villa St. Benedict Lutheran Home Perform Physical Therapy

38 fitness first

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November/December 2023

What to Expect as a Caregiver By Barbara Huelat

In 2020, 41.8 million Americans were longterm caregivers. With today’s baby boomers between the ages of 57 and 75, a growing number of Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers need to prepare for that emotional and physical challenge. Understand that caregiving involves stress My role as a caregiver involved beautiful highs, desperate lows, and a heart attack brought on by stress. Seeing someone you love in pain is torture, and guilt becomes stress when you cannot relieve their pain. Conversely, if you endured a tumultuous upbringing, latent resentment often boils over into stress. If your parent wasn’t there when you needed them, you may find it emotionally difficult to provide for them now. Lifestyle adjustments necessitated by caregiving are bound to cause stress, including more work and less privacy that may cause you to cut back on socializing, traveling, and exercise. The financial responsibilities of caregiving also bring about additional anxiety. Unexpected expenses and lost income can occur from increased demands at home. In the case of dementia, you encounter stress from caring for a parent whose behavior grows more and more unpredictable. The pressure to maintain order is relentless. Caregivers must prepare for chronic stress Stress is your physical, mental, and emotional response to disruptions beyond your control. Under constant stress, your mind, body, and soul never experience rest or rejuvenation. Fight or flight hormones constantly flood your system, and this continuous anxiety can make you sleepless or hungry, resulting in serious long-term health risks. November/December 2023

For me, the physical manifestation of chronic stress was a heart attack. How caregivers can minimize long-term stress First, recognize the strain of caregiving as soon as possible. The longer you delay, the more you put your health at risk. Next, educate yourself by learning all you can about your loved one’s condition. Oddly, I found that research enabled me to relax and unwind because it left me better prepared.

of both your loved one and yourself. Ms. Huelat’s latest work, Taming the Chaos of Dementia: A Caregiver’s Guide to Interventions that Make a Difference, provides a compassionate and insightful guide to those facing the tumultuous journey of dementia, offering solace, support, and practical strategies to navigate this challenging path.

After you’ve done your research, get help by gathering close friends and family members to help divide the work. For example, my husband watched my mom every Saturday morning while I rode a bike. Finally, never underestimate the importance of rest. Make downtime and sleep your top priority. Find ways to break for a walk, a lunch with friends, or a massage. Remember to treat yourself with kindness and forgiveness. Mistakes will happen, so learn from them and allow yourself to move forward. Instead of blaming myself as my mom’s dementia worsened, I learned to document the strategies that reduced her disruptive behavior and those that escalated it. Over time, this helped both me and my team immensely. The ongoing stress of caregiving can create a life-or-death situation. Just as flight attendants direct passengers to serve themselves before helping others, prioritize your own well-being as a caregiver. Don’t wait until you’re sick to seek help — surround yourself with supportive people and services so you can take care suburban family | subfam.com

“Perform Well” Evaluation & Treatment • Range of Motion Strength • Balance • Rehabilitation Joint Mobilization • Core Strength We Offer Specialized Services Including: • Post-Surgical • Muscle Activation Rehab • Vestibular and • Return to Sport Balance • Pelvic Health Rehabilitation • Orthopaedic • Strength & • Gait Analysis Conditioning • Work Hardening/ • Weight Loss & Conditioning Training Programs

Phone 708.937.9249 7023 S. Willow Springs Rd. Countryside, IL 60525 in 5 Seasons Family Sports Club 6901 S. Madison, Burr Ridge

www.performphysicaltherapy.com senior focus 39

SENIOR RESOURCE

HELPFUL SOLUTIONS FOR SENIOR LIVING Live Beautifully at Alto Wheaton

Alto brings Allegro’s person-centered approach to senior living to Wheaton, Illinois. Alto highlights one of their newest locations in Wheaton, Illinois, offering Assisted Living and Memory Care. Alto’s parent company, Allegro Senior Living, specializes in the development and management of luxury retirement communities, and brings more than 40 years of experience to its role of providing a vibrant lifestyle for seniors who want and deserve more. Alto Wheaton provides an environment where residents can live beautifully every day while experiencing the joy of carefree living coupled with the support of caring neighbors and skilled associates. Attentive 24-hour service, resources, and activities are carefully tailored to individual needs and preferences. Social and Wellness Programs We believe our residents deserve to live life to the fullest each day and therefore, wellness is a core component of our lifestyle programming. Our unique offering, Live in Harmony, focuses on individuals achieving personal wellness through well-balanced and fulfilling experiences. There are a total of seven dimensions of wellness: physical, social, emotional, environmental, spiritual, professional/vocational, and intellectual. To bring these to life, Live in Harmony offers art classes, group activities, continuing education series, entertainment, fitness classes, and so much more! Ensemble, Alto’s Signature Memory Care Program Alto also features Allegro’s signature memory care program. Ensemble focuses on caring for the whole person, so the seven dimensions of wellness are incorporated into every aspect of our memory care programming for a wellrounded approach. Amenities Additionally, Alto provides a vast array of amenities that allow residents to live a vibrant life of freedom. Amenities include a full-service salon and massage services, community activity center with library, fitness center, theater, and more. Contact us at 630-216-7964 or AltoWheaton. com to schedule a tour or speak to an advisor. Alto Wheaton, 219 Parkway Dr.,Wheaton, IL 60187. [See our ad on Page 3.]

Live Life Actively! St. Charles Park District

Alert minds, healthy bodies, energized spirits — that’s what the St. Charles Park District’s Adult Activity Center is all about. Ages 50 or better are welcome to enjoy a 40 senior focus

variety of meaningful and fun leisure time activities. Whether it’s socializing with others, surfing the internet, a game of cards or a trip to an area attraction, staying active and engaged in a community lifestyle can mean the difference between aging successfully and aging prematurely. www.stcparks.org/aac

Senior Tech Support

Senior Tech Support is Chicagoland’s premiere choice for in-person technology support, training and education for older adults and Seniors. Technology can be confusing and scary. Senior Tech Support is committed to supporting and empowering our clients to use technology to enrich their lives. Teaching, training, and educating is at the heart of what we do. We understand that tech support requires a patient approach and that’s exactly what we offer; patient, in-person technology support designed to inspire learning! We can help with the following and more: Smart Phone training, Wi-Fi issues; Printing problems; Smart Assistant setup (Google Home, Amazon Alexa), Smart Lighting, Locks, Doorbells, and Smart TVs; Reducing cable bills by using Streaming Services (Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, Disney +, etc.); Streaming Device setup (Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Firestick, Google Chrome); Computer setup; Transfer data from old computer to new one; Software training and education (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Canva and more). Here’s what others have to say about us: • “Senior Tech Support was critical in helping us finally cut the Comcast cord and convert all our TV watching to streaming from individual providers… AND cut our monthly cost in half.” – Ken P., • “Senior Tech Support is THE best. My 70+ year old mother lives in Wheaton, Illinois and I live in Los Angeles. Sometimes she needs help with things that I can help over the phone sometimes it requires more. If you have aging parents or are yourself that aging person in the Chicagoland area this is the company you want to work with!” – Brian C., • “Senior Tech Support is the BEST tech service. They are not only professional but very knowledgeable.”– Paula B. Call 877-630-3538 today to set up an appointment for yourself or someone you love or visit us online at www.SeniorTechSupport. net to book an appointment.

Discover Lutheran Home

With a mission to empower vibrant, Grace-Filled Living across all generations, Lutheran Home offers personalized supsuburban family | subfam.com

port for seniors, as well as trusted services and programs for the Arlington Heights community. Comprehensive senior care • Assisted Living: the right touch of assistance with daily necessities to help your loved one live confidently • Memory Care: a research-based approach to supporting those with dementia • Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation: professional therapies after a hospital stay or for long-term chronic conditions • Services for the whole family • Cherished Place® Adult Day Club: a unique program for stay-at-home seniors with activities tailored to their abilities and interests • MySolutions home care and move management services: resources for seniors and their families • Shepherd’s Flock Child Care Center: convenient child care and preschool services for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old To learn more, visit www.GoLutheranHome. org, or call (224) 259-0060 to schedule a tour.

Carefree Management Housing Seniors

Since 1995, Carefree Management has provided the best in affordable senior living throughout the Chicagoland area. Each community is strategically located within walking distance to shopping centers, grocery stores, pharmacies and public transit. Apartments have a full kitchen, generous closet space, individually controlled heating and air conditioning, vinyl wood flooring and natural light. While site amenities may vary, the majority of Carefree communities offer: senior oriented weekly activities, 1+ community laundry room, library/computer area, game room, dining room (providing daily continental breakfast), exercise room, garage parking and on-site management. For residents needing additional assistance, our property managers will provide connections to supportive services such as live-in aides, physical therapy and transportation services. Offering studios, one - and two - bedroom apartments in the following locations: Elmhurst, Schaumburg, Homewood, Lake Zurich, Richton Park, Forest Park, Chicago, Hoffman Estates and St. Charles. Visit www.housingseniors.com or email leasing@housingseniors.com for more information. We look forward to hearing from you! November/December 2023

Fina y, le can be more! Affordable and elegantly appointed rental communities for seniors.

DUPAGE COUNTY Liberty Village | Elmhurst KANE COUNTY Hunt Club Village | St. Charles LAKE COUNTY Zurich Meadows | Lake Zurich

708-657-4215 | HousingSeniors.com

Villa St. Benedict

Expert Insurance Team

Villa St. Benedict is at the height of its beauty when the seasons are changing. With a mixture of warm and cool days, we can still walk along our 47-acre campus to enjoy the colors of fall. The beautiful 47-acre campus is part of the original parcel of 500 acres purchased and still occupied by the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart since 1912. The heart of the community is the Sacred Heart Chapel.

Medicare Seniors have unique Medicare insurance needs. Bearing that in mind, we’ve handpicked the dozens of insurance companies that we work with in order to best meet those needs. Our team of licensed senior Medicare insurance agents have access to dozens of carriers, meaning you can choose the plan that’s right for you . Medicare Supplements Because Original Medicare coverage (Part A and Part B) has limitations, many people purchase supplemental insurance policies that are specifically designed to cover some of the gaps. Available to apply 365 days a year. These supplemental insurance policies, called “Medigap” or sometimes referred to as “Medicare Supplement” policies, are sold by private health insurance companies, not the federal government.

Villa St. Benedict continues to be a unique senior community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care with a mission statement based on the Benedictine tradition of hospitality. As a continuing care community, our staff works tirelessly to provide excellent services. We work with the same respect and compassion you would receive from a member of your family. With a wide array of apartment sizes and villa homes, we have a perfect fit for your chosen lifestyle. Living fully, living well – that’s comfort in VSB’s community! Villa St. Benedict is located at 1920 Maple Avenue in Lisle. Call a sales counselor at 630-852-0345 to arrange a tour or find out more by visiting www.villastben.org.

42 senior focus

Medicare Advantage Often referred to as Part C, a Medicare Advantage Plan (MA Plan) is an additional health plan choice offered to those eligible for Part A and Part B to provide additional coverage. Depending on your eligibility, an MA Plan may provide benefits such as:

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• Dental Coverage • Vision Coverage • Caregiver Counseling and Training • Housekeeping • Prescription Drug Coverage Medicare Part D - Prescription Drug Plans Part D, also called the Medicare Drug Benefit, is a federal program to subsidize the costs of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries in the United States. What is Open Enrollment? The typical period of open enrollment, also called the annual enrollment period (AEP), is January 1st through March 31, approximately 13 weeks. Millions of Americans are shopping for and purchasing Senior Medical products during this time. We encourage you to start the process early to give yourself ample time to make the most informed decision. Call today to have a no-obligation discussion with David Munoz, our Senior Medicare Professional. We can provide you the best quote for the top plans to fit your needs. Scan the QR code on our ad to schedule your appointment, or visit www.expertinsuranceteam.com

November/December 2023

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ike many of us, older adults are often targeted by con artists. Many victims don’t ask for help until it is too late! Help your friends, family, clients, or patients avoid fraud by knowing the signs of current or impending fraud. Warning signs that fraud may occur: Frequent junk mail and spam calls. Incoming junk mail (illegitimate sweepstakes offers, etc.) or receiving frequent calls from people offering valuable rewards or asking for charitable donations are signs that fraud could easily occur or may have already occurred. Unfamiliar payments are being made. Checks written or payments made to unfamiliar or out-of-state companies should be a red flag. Acting secretively about phone calls or messages. When someone hides or acts secretively about phone calls and messages, it could signify that they have engaged a scammer. Sudden problems paying bills or buying food and other necessities. A sudden lack of funds could mean an individual’s money is being drained in some form of scam activity. The cause should be investigated to rule out fraud. Tips for helping your loved one avoid fraud: Become familiar with common scams targeting older adults. Knowing the most common tactics used to target older adults can help you more quickly identify when scams occur. Emphasize the criminal nature of telemarketing and email fraud. Help your loved one learn how to identify it and help them understand that these tactics are illegal. In participating, it is possible they could be pulled into criminal activity unknowingly. Encourage the person to ignore phone calls and messages that appear suspicious. Don’t reply to or click links within emails or text messages they are unfamiliar with. Have a calm discussion about securing accounts and monitoring finances. Helping older adults monitor their finances can be a great way to prevent scam activity and identify if it has occurred. Help the person change their phone number. If constant calls continue, changing the person’s phone number may be worth changing. Registering the number with the Do Not Call list is a great first step, although scammers won’t necessarily follow the Do-Not-Call list laws. If unsafe calls continue, it may be best to change the phone number. 44 senior focus

Recognizing abuse against older adults The most common types of abuse are physical, emotional, financial, and verbal. The National Council on Aging says up to five million older Americans are abused yearly, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion. BBB recommends that family, friends, and caregivers learn the signs of abuse or neglect in older adults. Business owners dealing in the industry can share these signs with employees. Signs of neglect: Lack of basic hygiene, adequate food, or clean and appropriate clothing. When basic needs are not being met for an individual in the care of another, neglect should be suspected. Missing medical aids or skipped doctor’s appointments. Medical aids (glasses, walkers, hearing aids, medications) and regular physi-

Protect Older Adults From Scams and Abuse By Rick Walz

cian visits are critical to a healthy and active life for older adults. If these things are absent or ignored, it could be a sign of neglect. The person is often unsupervised. Caregivers must supervise their patient or loved one, especially if the person requires additional assistance because of dementia or other disorders. The level of supervision may vary depending on the needs of the person in care, but in all cases, a lack of supervision could be a sign of neglect. The home is overly cluttered, in disrepair, or fire and safety hazards are present. An unsafe home can be a sign of neglect and should be addressed due to safety hazards. Caregivers are tasked, in part, with creating a safe and healthy living environment. Signs of financial abuse or exploitation: Lack of amenities the person could typically suburban family | subfam.com

afford. A sudden problem with affording the basics, especially if the person was able to in the past (with no change in income), is a sign of financial abuse or exploitation.This could be from a family member, caregiver, or con artist. Giving excessive financial reimbursement or gifts for care and companionship. Care and companionship are necessary and can take a financial toll occasionally. But if care costs drain an individual’s bank account, it’s time to investigate and re-assess. The caregiver controls the person’s money but fails to provide for their needs. A sure sign of financial exploitation is when a caregiver fails to provide an older person with adequate supplies, food, clothing, or other necessities. The caregiver is overly concerned about the person spending money. Caregivers should be concerned with an individual’s spending habits if it is damaging to their health or well-being. Still, average daily spending should not be of concern to a caregiver. Unexpected or unexplainable property transfers such as a power of attorney or a new will. These can be especially concerning when the person in care cannot comprehend the transaction or what it means. When in doubt, family and friends should look into these transactions carefully. Signs of psychological and emotional abuse: Unexplained or uncharacteristic changes in behavior. A drastic change in demeanor or a withdrawal from normal activities is a red flag that abuse may be present. Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes. If medical professionals can find no other cause, it may be worth investigating if abuse is the cause of a sudden change in weight or appetite. The caregiver isolates the person from others. A caregiver should always be willing to help older individuals visit their loved ones and medical professionals. The caregiver is verbally aggressive, uncaring, or demeaning. Older adults deserve genuine care and compassion. Rude, dismissive, or aggressive behavior from a caretaker should be a red flag for potential abuse. Signs of physical abuse: Inadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts, sores, or burns. Frequent and unexplained injuries are concerning, especially if the individual under care cannot recall daily events easily. Additional resources for older adults and their loved ones can be found on BBB.org. November/December 2023

November/December 2023

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The Importance of Maintaining Balance By Janet Lubman Rathner

Aging in place vs. aging in the When age-related challenges arise, a community like Lutheran Home can reignite your loved one’s grace, purpose and joy. Offering dignified care, programs and friendship, it’s no wonder Arlington Heights families have trusted us for over 130 years. How can we serve your family? Let’s connect at

(224) 259-0060.

800 W. Oakton St., Arlington Heights, IL 60004 GoLutheranHome.org

Empowering vibrant, Grace ce--Fill lleed Living across all generations.

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As you get older, it’s more important than ever to take a proactive approach to your health. This includes getting routine medical screenings and making lifestyle changes to prevent chronic conditions like high blood pressure. Taking care of yourself also includes working to maintain and improve your balance, since it naturally deteriorates over time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every three adults age 65 and older falls each year. Between 20-30 percent of these falls lead to moderate or serious injuries, including fractures and head injuries that can be life altering. Falls are the leading cause of accidental death in adults age 65 and older. Why does balance decline? Muscle mass, which affects strength and agility, is essential for balancing and to avoid falling. As a normal part of aging, people begin losing muscle mass (sarcopenia) in their 30s – it’s not obvious in the mirror and can be years before it’s noticed. Sarcopenia tends to advance more rapidly in people who are not physically active, but like bone loss, it occurs to some degree in everyone. Researchers believe contributing factors include: • Reduction in nerve cells responsible for sending signals from the brain to the muscles to start movement • Lower concentrations of some hormones, November/December 2023

+ Live Life Actively

AAC

A facility of the St. Charles Park District

Ages 50 or better are welcome to enjoy a variety of meaningful and fun leisure time activities. Daily drop-in hours allow members the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of free activities. Trips, breakfasts, card playing, health & fitness classes and educational programs create a well-rounded environment.

What are core muscles? Core muscles are the 35 muscles in your torso. They include back extensors, abdominals, lateral trunk muscles and the hip muscles. Core muscles are stabilizers.They are responsible for proper posture and movement. Falls also happen to one in 10 younger and middle-aged people every year, but the risk for falling and suffering a serious injury increases with age.

AAC Membership Includes: Quarterly Newsletter Drop-In Programs • Free Wifi Computer/Media Lounge Game/Card Room Billiards & Table Tennis

Even when there is no injury, a fall can make someone fearful that they will fall again. That could cause them to limit their activities and social outings, leading to further physical decline, isolation and/or depression.

Drop-In Programs: (subject to change)

What can you do to improve balance and reduce your fall risk? Regularly engaging in exercises that strengthen your core can make a fall less likely both today and down the road. For example, standing on one foot for 7-10 seconds and then repeating with the other foot strengthens core muscles and helps maintain balance.

Pinochle • Bridge • Tripoli Mah Jongg • Scrabble • Samba Mexican Domino Train • Bingo 9-Ball Pool • Table Tennis Bocce Ball • Book Club

PLUS! Seasonal Programs & Special Events!

When will you see results? Thankfully, the body responds pretty quickly to exercise that is consistent. Balance can improve in just a few weeks by exercising at least twice a week. When it does, climbing steps shouldn’t be as taxing and sitting down or getting up won’t be as likely to cause a fall as it used to be.

Lunch Socials • Trips • Holiday Party Health & Fitness Programs Nature Education Programs FREE Educational Seminars for Members Volunteer Opportunities & more! *Some events & programs include a fee and require advance registration.

OPEN EVERY DAY! Annual Membership

Resident: $15 • Nonresident: $23 • Daily Guest Fee: $5

Located in Pottawatomie Community Center 8 North Avenue • St. Charles, IL More info: stcparks.org/aac • 630-513-4323

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HA R L

November/December 2023

Sponsored by St. Charles Breakfast Rotary

SINCE 1911

If you avoid physical activity because you’re afraid it will make a fall more likely, tell your health care provider. Your provider may recommend carefully monitored exercise programs or refer you to a physical therapist. The physical therapist can create a custom exercise program aimed at improving your balance, flexibility and muscle strength.

Early Bird Breakfasts & Bingo Nights

Keep moving Physical activity can go a long way toward fall prevention. With your health care provider’s OK, consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi — a gentle exercise that involves slow and graceful dance-like movements. These activities reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.

Alert minds, healthy bodies, energized spirits — that’s what the Adult Activity Center is all about.

including growth hormone, testosterone and insulin • A decrease in the ability to turn protein into energy • Not getting enough calories or protein each day to sustain muscle mass • How likely are you to fall? • The majority of falls in the upper age bracket happen during periods of transition like sitting down at the dining room table or going up and down stairs. Poor balance even increases your risk for falling during simple activities like leaning over to tie your shoes or reaching for something in your pantry.

DISTR

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education central

HELP YOUR CHILD DO WELL IN SCHOOL By Sandra Gordon

rom crawling, walking and babbling to the angst and rebellion of the tween and teen years, children constantly go through a predictable set of developmental stages physically,

intellectually, emotionally and socially. Along the way, any of these areas can be ahead or behind the others in their timing, then switch, which can be confusing for parents. 48 education central

You can start out with a precocious learner who is seemingly ahead of everyone else, for example, only to find out two years later that his classmates have caught up and they’re speeding ahead. Not to worry. It’s all just part of growing up. Still, knowing where your child is developmentally can help you understand and support him. Use our guide to help your child make the most of every age and stage, from kindergarten through high school. Elementary School: Milestone Mania What’s happening now: From Kindergarten through fifth grade, kids make major strides, from initially learning how to transition to school and being comfortable with a classsuburban family | subfam.com

room routine to learning how to read (Kindergarten and 1st grade) to reading to learn (the 3rd grade and beyond) in all subject areas. Emotionally, they begin to develop their academic self-esteem based on feedback from you and their teachers. By the 4th and 5th grade, they’re moving from concrete to abstract thinking. “When concrete thinkers see the Statue of Liberty, they see it as a lady with a torch. An abstract thinker also sees it as a symbol of freedom and democracy,” says Rebecca Branstetter, an educational and clinical psychologist. By the 5th grade, kids are also beginning to set goals, work independently, function better in groups, make more complex decisions and become organized with their school and homework. November/December 2023

Success Rx Extend learning beyond school. Reinforce what your child is learning in school with activities at home. For example, let your second grader count change at the checkout and measure the ingredients while you’re baking cookies together (fractions). Have her tell time.Talk about numbers while you’re driving, such as how fast you’re going, the distance you’ll travel and how long it will take to get there. Play board games together involving money, time, logic or vocabulary such as the family edition of Monopoly, Scrabble or Apples to Apples. On the weekends, visit museums and zoos exhibits that coincide with school subjects. “If your child is learning about Egypt, take a trip to a local museum with an Egyptian exhibit,” Branstetter says. “Family educational outings reinforce curiosity, sends the subtle message that school is important and shows your child that school and home are connected.” Develop a homework habit. Make doing homework automatic by coming up with a routine that fits your child’s personality. Some kids like doing homework right after school. Others need to burn off steam by playing for half an hour first (set a timer) before getting down to business. Whatever you choose, stick to the schedule you establish for your child as much as possible. To minimize distractions, keep the TV off during homework time. For younger kids,

begin each homework session by asking your child to explain what she’s supposed to do then gauge if she can do it alone of if she needs your help. If you’re not around when your child does his homework, let him know you’ll look at it when you get home and be sure to follow through.

a boy or girl looked at your child or not in the hallway, are a normal part of this phase of development. “Don’t take it personally. Just understand that your child is going through a lot. Be supportive but don’t minimize the problem or try to fix it either. Middle schoolers don’t want you to solve anything.

When he completes his homework, emphasize the process, such as “You worked really hard to learn your math facts” rather than the product “Good job on learning your math facts.”

Instead, use phrases like: “I’m sorry you feel that way” or “Gosh, that must have been embarrassing for you,” rather than “Just ignore it” or “Just get over it. It’s not a big deal.” It is a big deal to your child. Placating doesn’t help and can be harmful. It can push your child away because she’ll feel like you just don’t get it.

“Praising the process teaches persistence, which is a skill kids need for school success,” Branstetter says. Middle School: Hormone Havoc What’s happening now: In middle school—the 6th through 8th grade, kids are starting to go through puberty and the physical changes can make them feel like they’re not in control of their bodies. It’s a complicated time physically, socially and emotionally. During this difficult age and stage, their sense of self is also developing. There’s a lot of exclusion in middle school. Cliques can provide a safe haven as kids try to figure themselves out. Success Rx Expect turmoil. The mood swings and overreactions, such as total hysteria over whether

Don’t be too concerned if your child starts to hang with the wrong crowd. As kids develop and decide who they want to be, they need to decide who they don’t want to be. They may try on various groups, including one that’s not your favorite, to see what feels right. All kids have friends their parents don’t like. But kids are good self-barometers. Don’t butt in unless you think their friends are dangerous. Empathize academically. In middle school, the work load gets more difficult because kids have to meet the demands of up to seven different teachers instead of just one. It’s a big challenge. The best you can do is allow your child to vent. If your child complains that one of his

SS. Cyril & Methodius A 2019 National Blue Ribbon School SS. Cyril and Methodius School provides an excellent Catholic education from preschool through Eighth grade in a compassionate environment that strives to develop each student spiritually, academically, physically, and emotionally. The BLUE RIBBON FLAG is recognized as a trademark of excellence with NATIONALLY normed TEST SCORES in the top 15%… only 50 private schools throughout the country are eligible for nominations to the U.S. Dept. of Education. Our school asserts an advanced academic curriculum enhanced by computer and science labs, one-to-one Chrome books from 5-8, Chrome carts available to grades K-4, along with new iPads, Smart boards in all classrooms and yearly upgrades to curriculum through new materials. Our teachers are State Certified and certified as Religious Educators; many have advanced degrees and keep up with professional development. Comprehensive after-school, extra-curricular activities are offered to increase positive student growth. On-site morning and after school care is available to help ease the worry of working parents. Financial Aid is also available. Please inquire at school.

Please call today to schedule a PRIVATE TOUR with our Principal ~

Or, if you have any questions, please call 630-257-6488 www.school.stcyril.org | 607 Sobieski St, Lemont, IL 60439

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Acacia Academy Acacia Academy is a private special education school for students with a variety of unique and special needs. La Grange Campus is home to grades 1-12 and Burr Ridge Campus offers a Transition Program for ages 18-22. Students benefit from personalized programs designed to meet individual needs. A Natural Habitat and three-acre school Nature Center provides students with a unique outdoor experience and summer program. AdvancED/Cognia accredited and approved by the Illinois State Board of Education for out-of-district placement. Kathryn Fouks, Principal. La Grange Campus: 6425 Willow Springs Road, LaGrange, IL 60525 (708) 579-9040. Burr Ridge Campus: 6880 N Frontage Rd, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (708) 639-4222. info@acaciaacademy.com. www.AcaciaAcademy.com SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic School SS. Cyril and Methodius School provides an excellent Catholic education from Pre-K through 8th grade in a compassionate environment that strives to develop each student spiritually, academically, physically, and emotionally. In 2019, SSCM was awarded a National Blue Ribbon, which is a trademark of excellence in education.This prestigious recognition is only awarded to 50 non-public schools throughout the nation. Our Philosophy is to guide each child to realize their unique talents and fulfill his/her potential. Our goal is to enrich and develop each student through Catholic Faith by promoting self-esteem, discipline, common sense, and courtesy in a positive, healthy, respectful and safe environment. Address: 607 Sobieski St, Lemont, IL 60439. (630) 257-6488. school.stcyril.org

teachers gives too much homework, for example, you might say, “Well, what do you think you might need to do, given that he gives lots of homework?” rather than “He’s only trying to teach you.” The idea is to help your child solve the problem, find his own way and keep the lines of communication open so your child will continue to feel comfortable talking to you about even bigger problems that might come along later. High School: The Who-Am-I? Years What’s happening now: In high school, children forge their identity academically, socially, morally, sexually and spiritually while trying to figure out who they are apart from you. High schoolers question everything and may even rebel against your opinions and beliefs. If you’re a Democrat, for example, your child might say he’s a Republican. If you’re a meatand-potatoes family, she’ll become a Vegan. You get the idea. Success Rx Keep talking. Allow your child to question your opinions and values and express himself. Ask questions such as, “Oh, why do you think so?” rather than lecturing or yelling. It’s a great time to find out who your kids really are. Note dramatic changes. It’s normal for high schoolers to be just as moody as middle schoolers. But if your teen shows a drastic change in personality, behavior, a significant drop in grades, study habits or attitude, or a dramatic shift in appearance, dress, grooming, interests, goals or activities, know that something’s up. Talk to your teen about your concerns. Start by saying something like: “I’m concerned that you’re spending time in bed when you used to be out with your friends.” Then listen to what your child has to say. If the behaviors are a sign of rebelling against a lack of freedom or privilege, be open to discussing and compromising. If you’re concerned your child may be suffering from depression or another mental health disorder, seek professional help. “Your child’s primary care provider or the school guidance counselor is a good resource for a referral to qualified child/teen psychologists in your area. Help your child deal with college pressure. By the 11th grade, college pressure comes on strong. But start talking college now only if your child is ready to. Some kids are focused. But most have no idea what they want to do or major in. To reduce anxiety, high schoolers don’t have to know what they want to do going into college. That’s where they’ll figure it out. Also, listen to your child’s wishes for college rather than pushing your agenda. To be successful, kids should end up going to a college that’s right for them.

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porarily disrupts the cerebral function. While this injury is usually temporary, establishing baseline test can help parents identify if the recent injury is a concussion. It’s unfortunate that testing is not mandatory in all states and only high school student athletes get one. Since each concussion injury is different, having baseline numbers BEFORE an injury takes place provides for a more accurate result.

It’s great to keep our children active, so now is the time to regard something a bit serious – concussions.According to the CDC, 4 to 5 million concussions occur annually, that number is rising among middle school athletes. Meg Furstoss, MS, NSCA-CSCS and Andrew Borsellino, MS, NSCA-CSCS, NASM-PES, the founders of Precision Sports Performance are on a mission to ensure all parents and guardians are equipped with the right information. Below are Meg’s and Andrews top four tips when it comes to a concussion. • Understand the Symptoms. Many children who are diagnosed don’t experience a loss of consciousness. Instead, look for the main three symptoms: headache, nausea and sensitivity to light and/or sound. Children can have a hard time vocalizing what they are feeling, so asking the right questions is the first step.

• Neckercise. Your neck has muscles just like the rest of your body. Properly targeting those muscles will make your neck stronger and potentially decrease the risk of developing a head injury. All student athletes should work with a licensed strength coach who can properly teach muscular neck strength and techniques on how to fall correctly and withstand a game day blow. • 48 Hours. After any head injury, seeing a medical professional trained in concussion management is critical within the first few days. PSP has a partnership with Dr. Kulin & Associates. Many concussion specialists are not readily available to see patients quickly. PSP is helping to make it more accessible. Any appointments booked through PSP will be evaluated by an expert from Dr. Kulin’s staff within the timeframe. • Return to Play. Many student athletes often don’t report their true symptoms and return to the field too quickly. This could lead to more injuries. There are six steps that every parent should follow BEFORE

active kids allowing their child back on the field. »Step 1: Physical Therapist give green light to begin strength and condition straining »Step 2: PSP (condition coach) gives the green light »Step 3: Physical Therapist final evaluation »Step 4: Concussion doctor/specialist final clearance »Step 5: Practice with the team on the field »Step 6: Game Day

Do You Want To MODEL OR ACT? We Are Looking For New Faces! Ages 6–21

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• Establish Base Line. Not all injuries occur on the field. In fact, some children might develop a concussion on the playground or following a heavy fall. A concussion is defined as any knock or blow to the head that tem-

Great Lakes Volleyball Center The Great Lakes Volleyball Center at 579 N. Oakhurst Dr. in Aurora offers youth programs ages 3 years to 12th grade for both boys and girls. Our GLC Elite Junior High program starts November 13th. Spaces are limited so sign-up today! GLCYA Youth Academy offers both a club, winter and spring season beginning January 8th. Register for all programs at WWW.GREATLAKESCENTER.COM. Model Act Studios Model Act Studios in Wheaton & Lemont is the only Talent Management studio that works directly with talent agencies, modeling agencies, and casting directors from Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.We provide you with the correct tools to succeed, such as confidence, interview skills, camera technique, acting ability and experience, while presenting you with the opportunities to meet the right people. For more information visit. www.modelactstudios.com November/December 2023

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fitness first

Winter is coming. When the temperature begins to drop outside, the last thing on your mind is exercise. However, a sedentary lifestyle is more damaging to your health when compared to smoking, diabetes and even heart disease. Don’t let the lack of summery sunshine hours be a reason to cancel your workout. Make a workout plan and stick with it. The dip in tempera-ture is a good time to fire up your metabolism as

your body works harder to stay warm and as a result burns more fat during this time. Be certain to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program. The winter weather gives you new opportunities to try something new. Sign up for an endur-ance race. Pre-hydrating is an excellent way to prepare your body for winter runs – and it’s always a good idea at any time of year.

NOVEMBER SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Cantigny 5K Run/Walk. Wheaton, Cantigny.org

Roselle Annual Turkey Trot 5K

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Turkey Trot 5K. Tinley Park. tinleyparkdistrict.org Hot Chocolate 15k/5k. Chicago. Hotchocolate15k. com Ooh Lala Chocolate 5K. Geneva. crm.enmotive.com

Thursday, Nov. 23rd at 8 AM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Beat the Eagle 5K. Lombard. stjohnslombard.org

www.Roselle5K.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

CHIPPED TIME, USATF CERTIFIED. BLOODY MARY STATION • CASH PRIZE HOT CHOCOLATE AND POST-RACE REFRESHMENTS. DISCOUNT FAMILY RATES

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Whether it’s a winter 5K or a half marathon, gear up with a sweat-wicking base layer, an insulating layer, and a waterproof top. Never wear cotton. Dress in layers so you can remove clothes. Remember gloves, a thermal hat, a face mask, and a pair of wicking socks to ensure you can cross the finish line comfortably and safely. Take on a new challenge! You’ll find many fitness events in this section.

Gobbler Hobbler 10K & Mashed Potato Mile. Oswego. RunOswegoland.org SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Forge Fall 4 Miler at the Forge. Lemont. Forgeparks.com Jingle Bell Run. Normal. arthritis.org

November/December 2023

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Rudolph Run/Walk. Mooseheart. Moosecharities.org SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Orland Park Turkey Trot. Orland Park. orlandpark.org Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot. Elmhurst. dangibbonsturkeytrot.org 23rd Annual Pilgrim Pie Run for Rotary 5K 11/23 at 8:30AM Lyons Twp High School, 1045 W. Cossitt Ave., La Grange pilgrimpierun.enmotive.com

Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run Sat 11/18 at 9 AM 5K Run/Walk Cantigny Park Wheaton www.jbr.org/westernsuburbs

La Grange pilgrimpierun.enmotive.com

Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot 5K. Aurora. Aplusfoundation.sd129.org USOLE Trail Challenge. Palos. universalsole.com Reindeer Run. Brookfield Zoo. Czs.org SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Turkey Trot 5K/10K. Lincolnwood. lincolnwoodil.org

26th Annual Naperville Noon Lions 5K Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Morning 11/23 Proceeds benefit individuals with Vision and Hearing disabilities. Naperville Central High School, 440 Aurora Avenue, Naperville www.napervilleturkeytrot.com Long Grove Turkey Trot. Long Grove. allcommunityevents.com Grove Express 5K Run/Walk. Downers Grove. Downers.us St. Charles Turkey Trot. St. Charles. allcommunityevents.com North Shore Turkey Trot 5K & 10K. Highland Park. northshoreturkeytrot.com

DECEMBER SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Chilly Chill 5K. Schaumburg. parkfun.com Reindeer Run 5K. Wheaton. wheatonparkdistrict.com Santa Hustle. Chicago. santahustle.com Rotary Santa Run. Arlington Hts. rotarysantarun.org SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 Insane Candy Cane 5K. Batavia. Crm.enmotive.com Frigid 5K. Lemont. lemontparkdistrict.org Jingle Bell Run. Kankakee. arthritis.org SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run Sat 12/9 at 9 AM 5K Run/Walk Chicago History Museum Chicago www.jbr.org/chicago

Roselle Annual Turkey Trot 5K Thurs, 11/23 at 8 AM Chipped Time, USATF certified. Bloody Mary Station. Cash Prize Hot Chocolate and post-race refreshments. Discount Family Rates www.Roselle5K.com

Cocoa Classic 5K. Grayslake. allcommunityevents.com Viking Dash Trail Run. Crystal Lake. vikingdashtrailrun.com

Turkey Trot and Sammy Scurry. Palatine. palatineparks.org The Fox & The Turkey Race. Batavia. foxrivertrailrunners.org

Annual 5K

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Schaumburg Turkey Trot and Half Marathon. Schaumburg. allcommunityevents.com Grant Park Turkey Trot. Chicago. allcommunityevents.com You Can’t Catch Me Fun Run. Village Green, Plainfield. Plfdparks.org SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Carraig Challenge. Oak Forest. Chicagogaelicpark.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23

26th

DECEMBER 16 USole December Trail Challenge. Schiller Woods. universalsole.com

Thanksgiving

November 23, 2023

vision and hearing disabilities. RACE LOCATION

Naperville Central High School 440 Aurora Ave, Naperville

Information about the race and On-line registration at

napervilleturkeytrot.com JINGLE WITH US!

Put on your favorite holiday costume, enjoy fun activities and spread good cheer along with fam ily, friends and co-workers. Jingle All the Way to a Cure for the 1 in 4 Americans with arthritis. NOVEMBER 18, 2023 Cantigny Park Wheaton, IL

DECEMBER 9, 2023 Chicago History Museum

Race Time: 9:00am -----

23rd Annual

Lyons Township High School

1045 W. COSSITT AVENUE, LA GRANGE

Thanksgiving Day

TIME: 8:30AM

NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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great events

NOVEMBER THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2 ADULT Red Cross Blood Drive – North Suburban YMCA, Northbrook. 10am-3pm. Register nsymca.org/ events/red-cross-blood-drive-5 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 FILM City of Light Film Festival – Opening festivities begin at 6PM at Aurora Public Library with a reception and viewing of short films. Pre-purchase tickets. Aurora. Aurora-il.org/filmfestival FUNDRAISER Redefining Recovery Gala – 6PM. This year’s gala will be held at the Drake Hotel, Chicago, where the guest is author of Unbroken Brain, Maia Szalavitz. Chicago. Givesmart.com SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 CRAFTS Holiday Artisan Fair – 10AM-3PM. Unique treats and gifts at Hinsdale South Booster Club’s Artisan Fair. Shopping, concessions, and Raffle Prizes. Hinsdale. South.hinsdale86,org FAMILY Dia De Los Muertos Celebration – 5-8PM. Learn about Dia de Los Muertos through music, dancing, art, stories and more. Nicholas Conservatory. Rockford. nicholasconservatory.com FILM City of Light Film Festival – Viewing times are 2-9PMat the Aurora Regional Fire Museum. Pre-purchase tickets. Aurora. Aurora-il.org/filmfestival KIDS Rocking Jewelry for Kids – 1:30-2:15PM. All materials included to make a necklace, keychain and a pin, followed by a scavenger hunt in the mu54 great events

seum. Lizzadro Museum. Oak Brook. Register. lizzadromuseum.org

org/events/freeform-alcohol-inks-friday-nightout-art-workshops

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 CHARITY Puttin’ On the Glitz Fashion Show – 11:30AM Lunch followed by the fashion show. at the Bolingbrook Golf Club, Bolingbrook. lightways.org CHARITY SkyRise Chicago – Step up in support of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab by participating in the climb up the 105 flights of stairs. Willis Tower, Chicago. Skyrisechicago.org CONCERT Chamber Concerts – Experience intimate classical concerts at the Morton Arboretum’s historic Thornhill Education Center. Cavatina Duo performs. Lisle. Mortonarb.org OUTDOOR Dog Admission Day – Bring your furry friend to Morton Arboretum. Special rules apply. See website for details. 7AM–Sunset. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. Mortonarb.org

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Thank you, Veterans! CRAFTS Fine Arts and Crafts Show –11AM6PM. Thirty artists selling handcrafted works of art at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. Naperville. Stapostle.org FAMILY Lapidary Activity Day – 10AM-4PM. Artist from West Suburban Lapidary Club demonstrate cutting and polishing stone, wire-wrap and silversmithing. Oak Brook. Lizzadromuseum.org MUSEUM Family Day – 11AM-3PM. Families explore the overlap between art and science at the Museum of Contemporary Arts. Exhibit included in regular admission. Chicago. Visit.mcachicago.org OUTDOORS Hot Cider Stroll – 2-3PM. Enjoy a guided stroll in the woods with a Naturalist and hot cider. Lawn games and a bonfire for later. Bolingbrook. Bolingbrookparks.org PARADE City of Aurora Veteran’s Day Parade – 10;15AM-12PM. The city of Aurora honors Veterans Day 2023 with a parade and ceremony in downtown Aurora. Enjoyaurora.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 ADULT Underwear Party to Support AdoptA-Family – 6-8PM. Bring donations of new socks and underwear to Bar Evolution and The Tea Tree in exchange for free appetizers and a cash bar. Batavia. Bataviaunitedway.org FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10 ADULT Friday Night Out – Freeform with Alcohol Inks. Create a unique piece of artwork for your home using alcohol inks. 7-8:30pm. North Suburban YMCA, Northbrook. IL Register ansymca. suburban family | subfam.com

TUESDAY, November 14 ADULT Solo Aging, by Choice or by Chance – Online Event. This program will address how one learns to embrace solo aging. 11 AM. Must be registered: nsymca.org/events/solo-aging-choice-orchance November/December 2023

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 ADULT Wine & Canvas at the Farm – 6:30– 8:30PM. Guided custom canvas creation. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, snacks, a few friends and enjoy a creative night out. All materials included. Blackberry Farm, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 CRAFTS Craft Fair – 9AM-2PM. Crafters will bring their best homemade items. Salt Creek Sports Center. Palatine. Saltcreekpd.com WORKSHOP Holiday Gift Wrapping Workshop – 2-3PM. Learn gift wrapping techniques from a professional. Register. Elmhurst History Museum. Elmhurst. Elmhursthistory.org WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 CHARITY Special Olympics Annual Evening Reception – 5:30-8PM. An evening celebrating Chicago’s talented athletes at the newly renovated Old Post Office. Sochicago.org

DECEMBER SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 FUNDRAISER Twist Out Cancer Brushes with Cancer Art Exhibition and Gala– 6-11PM. Dinner, music, auction and dancing at the Zhou B Gallery, Chicago. Twistoutcancer.org

ONGOING ART The Carrying Stones Project – 11/3-12/9. The Art Center exhibit designed to jumpstart public conversation about women’s work inequity. Highland Park. Theartcenterhp.org ART Artists’ Guild Autumn Art Exhibit, Joe Rizzo – 11/10-12. 10AM-4PM. Included free with Arboretum admission. Nature themed art featuring local artists. Lisle. Mortonarb.org

For Holiday Events see the ‘‘Out & About” section in this issue! CRAFTS Art and Market Aurora - 11/11, 12/2 and 12/16 from 9AM-1PM at Society 57 featuring a special Sugar Skull City market on Nov 5. Aurora. Enjoyaurora.com CRAFTS Arts and Crafts Show – 11/24-11/26. Step by Step Promotions holds its craft show at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Grayslake. Stepbysteppromotions.com CONCERT USAF Band Veteran’s Day Concerts – 11/2-4. 3 free concerts in Franklin Park, Romeoville and

Elgin featuring USAF’s 45-piece band. Afbandtix.com EXHIBIT Lost Chicagoland Department Stores – Elmhurst History Museum’s newest exhibit takes us back to learn about the origins and history of Chicago area department stores. Elmhursthistory.org EXHIBIT Great Ideas of Humanity: One of a Series – Through 12/31. Chicago Cultural Center features works that embrace the increasing globalization of our world. Chicago. Chicagoculturalcenter.org EXHIBIT Cheers for Spheres – Explore the world of ball, circles, and spheres and how they interact with the world around them. Kohls Children’s Museum. Glenview. kcmgc.org FAMILY Kane County Flea Market – 11/4-5 and 12/2-3. Refurbished furniture, holiday decorations, sports collectibles, or antique. Kane County Fairgrounds, Geneva. kanecountyfleamarket.com FAMILY Frosty Fridays Public Skating Lessons – Learn to skate indoors every Friday through April 26, 2024.7-9PM. DJ and concessions for purchase. Rockford Park District’s Carlson Ice Arena. Rockford. Rockfordparkdisrict.org PERFORMANCE “The Laramie Project” – 11/17-19. The Theatre of Western Springs High School Repertory presents its annual performance. “The Laramie Project” is based on the true story of Matthew Shepard. theatreofwesternsprings.com STAGE Seussical Jr. – Performances 11/16-19 at the Community Recreation Center. Schaumburg. Parkfun.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 CONCERT Chamber Concerts – 2:15PM. Experience intimate classical concerts at the Morton Arboretum’s historic Thornhill Education Center. Black Oak Ensemble performs. Lisle. Mortonarb.org WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 ADULT Wine & Canvas at the Farm – Guided custom canvas creation. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, snacks, a few friends and enjoy a creative night out. All materials included. 6:30–8:30PM. Blackberry Farm, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 ADULT Tipsy Toes Adult Dance Workshop Holiday Giveback – 11AM-12PM. Help pack Blessing Bags for the homeless at North Suburban YMCA. Families welcome. Northbrook. Nsymca.org CRAFTS Last Chance Craft Fair – Art and Craft Fair with over 175 booths. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. craftproductionsinc.com SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 CRAFTS Last Chance Craft Fair – Art and Craft Fair with over 175 booths. College of DuPage Athletic Arena, Glen Ellyn. craftproductionsinc.com SATURDAY DECEMBER 16 TEEN Zine Fest – 12-4PM. Free for 18 and under. The Teen Creative Agency at the Museum of Contemporary Arts celebrates its 12th Anniversary with artwork displays. Chicago. Visit.mcachicago.org November/December 2023

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dining out

dining out Catch 35 Give the gift of Catch 35 this holiday season! For every $100 in gift cards purchased, receive a $25 BONUS certificate – restrictions apply. Catch 35’s menu is filled with fresh seafood and from the farm dishes such as Sesame Seared Yellowfin Tuna, Bone-in French Cut Ribeye, Pan Roasted Chilean Sea Bass, and so much more. Try Catch 35’s NEW Lunch specials starting at $15.95 featuring Bacon Wrapped Scallop Sliders and the Maine Lobster Roll for $17.95 - Available Monday thru Friday 11:30am to 3pm. Catch 35 Naperville offers a casual neighborhood wine & cocktail bar and a newly crafted bar menu featuring Tuna Poke Nachos, Coconut Shrimp, Cocktails, and Specialty Wines. Cheers to Catch 35’s NEW Happy Hour special – Half priced Oysters every Monday thru Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm (available in the Bar & Outdoor Patio only). Contact us at 35 S. Washington St. Naperville, Illinois 60540 – 630-717-3500. Dine in, delivery, & curbside pickup available. Visit www.catch35.com

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Stay connected with loved ones over the holiday season. The holidays are a beautiful time to share a love of food and culture with friends and family. Make your holidays memorable by making reservations NOW for by lunches or dinners at one of these wonderful restaurants.

BEATRIX Located in Oakbrook Center, Beatrix is an all-day restaurant, coffeehouse and meeting place open for weekday breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour and weekend brunch! The menu features healthy meets delicious options, and is known for its iconic coffee and bakery counter, including signature cookies and in-house pastry favorites. Plus, celebrate the holidays or your next event in the private dining room accommodating groups up to 65 guests, or enjoy Beatrix catering. 630-491-1415 272 Oakbrook Center. www. beatrixrestaurants.com

Make a reservation via the website, on OpenTable or call 630-491-1415. 'Available after 4:00PM. Complimentary for Children 12 & Under. One Complimentary Children's meal per adult. While Supplies Last.

Antico Posto Antico Posto is a cozy Italian cafe and wine bar serving Italian classics. Located in Oakbrook Center, signature dishes include Chicken Meatballs with arrabbiata sauce, Hand-Stretched Brick Oven Pizzas, House-Made Gnocchi and Baked Eggplant Parmesan. Dine in the main dining room, order catering for an at-home celebration or holiday party, or enjoy the intimacy of Antico Posto’s private dining room to toast to the New Year with family and friends. 630-586-9200. 118 Oakbrook Center. www.antico-posto.com VIOLI A Mykonian escape in the Chicago suburbs, VIOLI represents a Modern Greek restaurant located on the east side of Oakbrook Center. Inspired by its big sister, LYRA, the DineAmic Hospitality owners partnered with Greek Top-Chef Athinagoras Kostakos to bring the Greek lifestyle to Illinois. VIOLI is open 7 days a week for dinner and weekday lunch, beginning at 11:30 a.m. The space includes a 6,300-square-foot interior, an expansive four-season outdoor pergola patio, a beautiful oval-shaped bar, and a fully private dining room. From intimate happy hours and celebrations to corporate buyouts and catering, our passionate events team is ready to plan the perfect event for 12 or more guests. Inquire today - events@tavernavioli.com. 260 Oakbrook Center Oak Brook, IL 60523. www.tavernavioli.com. November/December 2023

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