West Suburban Living November/December 2016 by West Suburban Living Magazine

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THE BEAUTY OF ART GLASS

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Q&A WITH THE FOUNDER OF NORA FLEMING

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SPOTLIGHT ON RIVERSIDE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING • CELEBRATING THE SEASON

Celebrating

VOL. 21

the Season

•

• Elegant Holiday Entertaining

NUMBER

• More than a Dozen Great Ways

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

$3.95

www.westsuburbanliving.net

to Catch the Spirit of the Holidays

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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Art Director | Rachel Switall Assistant Editor | Sarah Astra

Contributing Writers Laurie Barton, Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Sharon Brass, Jay Copp Kathy Johns, Lynn Petrak, Diana Santos, Lisa Sloan, Sara Pearsaul Vice, Michele Weldon and Tom Witom Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Accounting/Circulation Jennifer Cozette

Reader Advisory Board Laurie Barton (Glen Ellyn), Karla Bullett (Lombard) Photos by Graham Webb

Linda Cassidy (Campton Hills), Mary Ellen Coombs (Wheaton), Joan Hoff (Elmhurst) M Grace Grzanek (Batavia), Liz Hunka (Wheaton) Nancy Jensen (Batavia), Holly Jordan (Wheaton) Mary Ellen Kastenholz (Western Springs) Kate Kirkpatrick (Naperville) Molly Livermore (St. Charles) Pamela Peterson (Burr Ridge) Diana Santos (Woodridge), Darla Scheidt (Darien)

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Jean Stawarz (Oak Brook) Marilyn Straub Garazin (Winfield) West Suburban Living is a publication of C2 Publishing, Inc. 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 630.834.4995 / 630.834.4996 (fax) wsl@westsuburbanliving.net subscriptions@westsuburbanliving.net www.westsuburbanliving.net No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of C2 Publishing, Inc. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of West Suburban Living or its parent company. West Suburban Living (Vol. 21, No. 10 NOV/DEC 2016; ISSN No. 15326705) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/ December issues (10 times a year) by C2 Publishing, Inc., 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162, 630 834-4995, fax 630 834-4996. Periodicals postage paid at Elmhurst, Illinois and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: 1 year $15; 2 years $24; 3 years $32. Single copy $3.95; back issues, as available, $7. West Suburban Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to West Suburban Living Magazine, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Printed in USA.

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Contents |

November/December

2016

Photo courtesy of Marcel’s Culinary Express

West Suburban Living

Home&Garden Light and COLOR

Incorporating the beauty of art glass into your home.

Town Focus

54 44

 Features 48

RIVERSIDE

Designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, this charming and scenic village is considered the first planned community in the country.

SPECIAL SECTION Holiday Gift Guide

Leading area retailers share some of their best holiday gift-giving suggestions.

Catching the SPirit of the Season More than a dozen great ways to celebrate the holidays.

Simply Elegant Holiday Entertaining Expert tips for making things just a little less stressful while celebrating the season in style.

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Departments |

November/December

2016

Photo by Lewis Lee

West Suburban Living

Photo by Diana Santos

27 23 Around the Towns

Perspectives

FOREWARD

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

Relishing the holidays and looking ahead to the new year

Using their gift for others, members of the DuPage Woodworkers Club create handcrafted gifts for children in need.

By The Numbers

Q&A

LAST WORD

There can be a fine line between living a full life and being so busy you can’t enjoy it.

Intriguing numerical tidbits

with Hinsdale native Nora Napientek, founder and creative leader of nora fleming dishware SCENE & SEEN

A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events

Style&Fashion

westsuburbanliving.net The go-to site for the Best of the Western Suburbs at your fingertips!

Dining

REVIEW: Chew Chew in Riverside

REVIEW: Chez Moi Café in Geneva

STOPS & SHOPS

New stores and hidden gems

Out&About

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The best in music, theatre and other area events

NEW RESTAURANTS:

One Fifty One Kitchen & Bar in Elmhurst, The Craftsman by Two Brothers in Naperville, and FourteenSixteen in La Grange CHEERS

Cold Weather Reds: Cabernet Franc, Nebbiolo and Tannat

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editor’s Note “Life is like skiing. Just like skiing, the goal is not to get to the bottom of the hill. It’s to have a bunch of good runs before the sun sets.” - Seth Godin

“As I get older, I pay less attention to what people say. I just watch what they do.” - Andrew Carnegie

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” - Mary Anne Radmachery

“Troubles are often the tools by which God fashions us for better things.” - Henry Ward Beecher

“Your faith should not

Finding a Way to Savor the Holidays

s the holiday season approaches, I often find myself reminiscing about the youthful days of my past. Not so much about my early childhood, though I do have many fond memories of spending the holidays with family and doing all the traditional Thanksgiving and Christmasrelated activities. No, what I really miss are those brief college years when I would return home for Christmas break with virtually nothing to do for three to four whole weeks! Like many good things, you don’t realize what you have until it’s gone. And while I did enjoy those relatively carefree vacation days at the time, I know I would savor them far more now. That’s because I truly enjoy the holiday season, but in recent years — with all the busyness — it has tended to sneak up on me and be over before I’m truly able to enjoy it. On the one hand, that’s a good sign. I like being busy and, as Michele Weldon points out in her column on page 88, having a lot to do is one of the signs of having a full and active life. But like Michele, as much as I enjoy all the things I am doing, sometimes it just seems a bit too much. That’s why a growing part of me longs for the old college-days, threeweek winter break. Actually, I wouldn’t mind having the spring, summer and fall college breaks as well. But honestly, it is the Christmas break that I miss most. Having even just a little extra time

rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power

around the holidays would allow me to take part in a few more of the many great holiday activities that writer Jay Copp highlights in our “Catching the Spirit of the Season” article on page 48. It would also allow me to spend more time with friends and family and be more intentional about celebrating the true “reason for the season.” But that’s OK. In the big picture, I am blessed beyond measure. And when it comes down to it, acknowledging our blessings and sharing them with others is a big part of what the holiday season is about anyway. And so, while I still look forward to taking in a holiday light show or two, singing in a do-it-yourself Messiah, and maintaining a few other holiday traditions, for me, maintaining the right mindset is the most important thing — though a little extra time off couldn’t help but put me in a more positive and grateful frame of mind. Can you relate? We hope you enjoy this issue and we sincerely wish you a joyous and blessed holidays. And, as always, thanks for being a reader!

of God.” - I Corinthians 2:5

Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net

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THE

AROUND TOWNS |

STOPS & SHOPS

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

LOCAL AUTHORS Photo courtesy of the Chicago Zoological Society

Q&A

Holiday Magic

ow in its 35th year, Brookfield Zoo’s annual Holiday Magic is the largest and longest running lights

and then for the week of Dec. 26 through Dec. 31. For information on other area holiday light shows

festival in the Chicago area, featuring more than a

as well as a wide range of additional fun seasonal

million LED lights. The show kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 3

events, check out “Catching the Spirit of the Season”

and runs on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18,

on page 48.

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 13

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THE

BY NUMBERS

50 years ago 150 MILLIONTH BROOKFIELD ZOO RECENTLY WELCOMED ITS 150 MILLIONTH VISITOR. The zoo, which opened to the public in 1934 with an estimated 58,000 people in attendance,

n Dec. 4, 1965, DuPage

now draws more than two million visitors a year. Throughout its 82-year history, the zoo’s

County voters passed by

mission has been to inspire conservation leadership and a love and respect for animals.

a 2-to-1 margin a referendum to

Rick Sauseda of Elgin was recognized for being the 150 millionth guest. Sauseda,

establish a junior college district.

his wife, Agnes, and their three children Payton, Adriane and Carter were greeted at

Nearly two years later, on Sept.

the zoo’s South Gate by Stuart D. Strahl, president and CEO of the Chicago Zoological

25, 1967, College of DuPage opened its doors for the first time. The following year, the school purchased its current

Society, and Richard Gamble, senior vice president of operations for the Society, who presented the family with a five-year unlimited family membership to the zoo. And on a return visit, the family will also get a behind-the-scenes experience with the zoo’s giraffes.

273-acre site in Glen Ellyn. Classes were held in office trailers and at leased suburban sites throughout the district. Driving from class to class, the initial 2,621 students and 87 full-time faculty and staff were

IN THE SPRING OF 2018, McDonald’s will be moving its headquarters out of Oak Brook after being based in the western suburb for almost 50 years. The Fortune 500 company (#109 last year)

affectionately nicknamed

will be moving back to Chicago where

road-runners, leading to the

it was headquartered from 1955 to 1971.

adoption of the “Chaparral”

The global hamburger chain has signed

as the College’s official mascot.

a lease at 1045 W. Randolph St. in the

Now, almost 50 years later,

West Loop. The new headquarters will

College of DuPage has grown

also house Hamburger University, one of

to become one of the largest

seven worldwide training centers for the

community colleges in the

company’s leaders and employees.

2018

country. Its current enrollment of more than 28,000 students makes it the second largest provider of undergraduate education in Illinois, behind only the University of Illinois

{24 }

THE NUMBER OF HOME GAMES the new Windy City Bulls will host at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates in their inaugural 2016 - 2017 season, which begins Friday, Nov. 11 when the team

at Champaign.

plays the Long Island Nets. The Windy City Bulls are the Chicago Bulls Developmental League or “D League” team, offering prospective players an environment to increase and refine their skills in order to possibly earn a spot on an NBA roster. Last year, 32 D League players were called up to an NBA team during the season. For more information on the Windy City Bulls roster or schedule, go to www.windycity.dleague.nba.com.

14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Cast Your Vote Today!

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It’s your turn. Tell us what you like best about the western suburbs — shops, places to go, restaurants, things to do, etc. You could win gift certificates to top area restaurants or other prizes. Your answers will also be combined with those from other readers and summarized in a special “Best of the West” feature in our March 2017 issue. The more questions you answer the better, but you don’t have to answer them all. Just the ones you want (though you must answer at least 30 to qualify for prizes). Don’t delay. Fill out the survey right now and drop it in the mail. We look forward to hearing from you. Food

Best Farmers’ Market _____________________________________________________________ n Best Park or Forest Preserve _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place for Live Music _____________________________________________________________ n Best Public Library _____________________________________________________________ n Best Historic Landmark/Attraction _____________________________________________________________ n Best Area Museum _____________________________________________________________ n Best Movie Theatre _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party _____________________________________________________________ n Best Weekend Getaway Destination _____________________________________________________________ n Favorite Movie in the Past Year _____________________________________________________________ n Favorite TV Show _____________________________________________________________ n Best Book You’ve Recently Read _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place for a Girls’ Night Out _____________________________________________________________ n Best Local Band _____________________________________________________________ n Best Venue for Live Theatre _____________________________________________________________ n Best Triva Night Venue _____________________________________________________________ n

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n n

sports Favorite Chicago-Area Sports Team _____________________________________________________________ n Best Sports Bar or Place to Watch Sports _____________________________________________________________ n Favorite Chicago Athlete/Sports Personality _____________________________________________________________ n Best Area Public Golf Course _____________________________________________________________ n Best Golf Driving Range _____________________________________________________________ n Best Area Bowling Alley _____________________________________________________________ n

shopping Best Mall or Shopping Center _____________________________________________________________ n Best Women’s Clothing Store or Boutique _____________________________________________________________ n Best Bargain Shopping/Discount or Outlet Store _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place to Buy Women’s Shoes _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place to Buy Women’s Jeans _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place to Buy Art _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place to Buy Men’s Clothes _____________________________________________________________ n Best Place to Buy Children’s Clothes _____________________________________________________________ n Best Pet Service/Supply/Boutique _____________________________________________________________ n Best Kitchen & Housewares Store _____________________________________________________________ n Best Decorative Accessories for the Home _____________________________________________________________ n

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services Best Wedding Venue _____________________________________________________________ n Best Fitness Center/Health Club _____________________________________________________________ n Best Local Hotel _____________________________________________________________ n Best Hair Salon and/or Spa _____________________________________________________________ n Best Area Bakery _____________________________________________________________ n Best Cell Phone/Electronics Repair _____________________________________________________________ n Best Auto Repair _____________________________________________________________ n Best Car Wash _____________________________________________________________ n

general Best Area Celebrity (Currently or previously lived here) _____________________________________________________________ n Most Influential West Suburbanite _____________________________________________________________ n Recently Closed Store or Restaurant You’ll Miss Most _____________________________________________________________ n Best or Most Impactful Local Non-Profit Group _____________________________________________________________

Chicago-area Favorite Chicago Broadcast News Personality _____________________________________________________________ n Favorite Radio Show/Personality _____________________________________________________________ n Best Chicago Event or Fest Open to the Public _____________________________________________________________ n Area Town You’d Most Want to Live in Other than Your Own _____________________________________________________________ n

1. Unless otherwise indicated, please focus responses on establishments that are located in the western suburbs. 2. No photocopied entries accepted. All surveys must be signed with a valid address and phone number to be eligible for prizes. Any organized effort deemed by the publisher as an effort to inappropriately influence

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Q&A

Nora Napientek/ The Hinsdale native is the founder and creative force behind nora fleming dishware n You grew up in Hinsdale. Any

fond memories of things you did or places you hung out with friends? NN: I spent a ton of time “in town” — at the Picadilly restaurant eating their amazing fries and egg salad. I also walked from St. Isaac Jogues school to Millers to get Jolly Rancher sticks and Pine Bros. cough drops. I loved dress up parties and dance parties. I collected plastic charm bracelets and played volleyball and basketball at St. Isaacs. n Did you take any art classes in high

Nora Napientek, the founder of nora

for friends with decorative pieces that would

fleming — named after her great grandmother

attach through holes she drilled in the edges

— never dreamed that creating custom dishware

of the plates. The specialty plates were so well

would become her full-time career, not to mention

received that Napientek began expanding on the

a perfect fit for her life. Soon after graduating from

concept and the business nora fleming was born.

the University of Michigan with a degree in political

The dishware collection — now available at more

science, Napientek happened on a paint-your-

than 1,200 retailers across the country — pairs

own-pottery shop in Charleston, SC and fell in

traditional ivory-colored, ceramic serving platters

love with the concept. Upon returning home,

with unique, decorative pieces (minis) that represent

the Hinsdale native opened Pottery Bayou in

holidays and themes. The company now also

Naperville. While running the shop, Napientek

offers customizable pillows and is in the process

began customizing some of the plates she made

of branching out into other home décor items.

Q&A

school or do anything in your early years that may have helped lay the groundwork for your artistic pursuits? NN: No, I have only recently, within the past few years, started my formal art education. I am pursuing a degree in Art Therapy and feel very strongly about the marriage of art and its therapeutic nature. But as a teenager, I was definitely creative in my dress, hair and other ways of self-expression. n You studied political science in

college at Michigan. Why did you not pursue that as a career and what made you decide to open Pottery Bayou in Naperville? NN: I met my husband towards the end of college and knew I wanted to have a family. Paint-your-own-pottery shops were all the rage and I was shocked to find there wasn’t one in Naperville. With my

6. What are the best words

RAPID FIRE

love to be using nora fleming

of wisdom or advice you ever

pieces? Bono, Pope Francis and

received? It’s more important

Gwen Stefani

to say no sometimes than to

8. Favorite quotes or words you

1. Favorite artist or designer?

TV show? Kitchen Crashers.

say yes when deciding where

try to live by?

Tom Ford.

4. Hobbies when not working?

to place your brand. Know your

“What if I fall? Oh, but my darling

2. If not nora fleming, what?

Antiquing and making art.

branding goals and then stick

what if you fly?” — Erin Hanson

Vintage holiday dishes.

5. Favorite piece sold by Nora

to them.

“Lord, make me an instrument of

3. Favorite HGTV or other

Fleming? Bread tray and grill mini.

7. Three people you would most

Your peace.” — Prayer of St. Francis

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Q&A parents’ support, I opened Pottery Bayou right after college. I also freelanced as a creative writer at Maddock Douglas in Elmhurst. MD is a creative agency that I owe a lot of my success to. They really developed me into a creative thinker and expanded my abilities. n Do you remember when and where

you were when you came up with the idea of putting holes in plates so you could customize them? NN: Sitting in Pottery Bayou alone on a week night. No, not really. I actually learned quickly that bisque-ware platters — before they are fired — are easy to drill a hole in. The problem was with the stems. The original nora fleming minis simply had a ceramic stick glued to the bottom of it. n You initially just did the holes yourself

for a few plates to give to friends as gifts. What made you realize that the concept had much more potential? NN: When more and more people asked me to make them for others, I hosted a trunk show at my parents’ house and people actually showed up and bought the originals. It was totally nerve-wracking but so worth it. It is a super vulnerable position when you showcase your artwork. n How did you take the business from

making a few specialty plates at home to a mass production business? NN: My brother had just graduated from college and we soon realized that we were on to something with my concept. Our friend’s father is in the furniture business and was making porcelain finials for bed posts. He helped us get started by introducing us to the ceramics industry. n How many retail outlets across the

country now sell nora fleming products and did you ever imagine you could build a company this successful? NN: We are currently in 1,200 retailers across the country. Most are independent gift boutiques, which is one of the most rewarding parts of having the company — helping local, small businesses. I was willing to work hard and have learned many lessons along the way, but I’m not sure I could have imagined the company as it is today.

n You named the company after your

great grandmother. Why and what do you think she would she think of the company that bears her name? NN: I actually never met her, but I always heard stories growing up that she was a “force” and very full of love and energy. Family was very important to her as was entertaining and the concept of tradition. I think she would be very proud to have her name on platters and entertaining pieces that will be passed on from generation to generation. n You have recently expanded your

brand to include pillows with interchangeable panels. Any other product types or line extensions on the drawing board? NN: We plan on introducing new minis and base pieces for years to come! Next up are some more desktop items and pieces that one can leave out all year. I would love to do even more with linens and decorating concepts. n Any advice for other would-be entrepreneurs on what is needed to start a successful business? NN: #1. Support. #2. Advisors. #3. A relentless attitude. You will hear a lot of nos and doors will be shut in your face, but you can’t give up. n What is your day-to-day role at nora

fleming? And what is your favorite part of running the business that you never envisioned when you started out? NN: I head up the creative department. My favorite part of the business is without a doubt the signings I get to do nearly every week. I am so blessed to travel across the country meeting nora fleming collectors and hearing stories about the impact a seemingly simple product has on families everywhere. n You have lived in Hinsdale, Glen Ellyn

and now Downers Grove. What are your favorite things to do and places to go in and around the western suburbs? NN: I love the restaurants in Hinsdale and love shopping locally! Style Studio in Downers Grove, Paisley on Main and MandEm’s in Glen Ellyn, and Char Crews in Hinsdale are some of my favorites. n

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Stops&Shops

Photo by Kathy Johns

Photo by Patrick Harris

JOAN’S PLACE

The Courtyard

Generation Bliss

Mother-Son owners Joan and

Treasure hunters in Search

Prepare to be visually transported

Patrick Harris’ extensive travels

of high-end, pre-owned home furnishings and jewelry will find plenty to their liking at The Courtyard in downtown Hinsdale (63 Village Pl., 630 323-1135). The popular consignment shop — currently celebrating its 25th year in business — features upscale furniture, artwork, lamps, chandeliers, rugs and knickknacks, as well as china, silver, crystal and a variety of jewelry. Shoppers will have the added satisfaction of knowing that the money they spend will be going to a good cause, as proceeds from The Courtyard support a variety of programs for cancer patients and their families at the nearby Wellness House. Over the years, the store has raised more than $4 million for the facility. The shop is almost entirely volunteer-run with new items from Chicago-area consignors being added every Monday. As a result, Manager Marna Slawson says, “It’s a new place every Tuesday.” — Kathy Johns

to a posh urban boutique when you enter Lemont’s Generation Bliss (14184 McCarthy Rd., 630 243-0545). Owner Ela Czupta, initially a fashion blogger, has captured the elements of sophisticated presentation, fashion-forward women’s clothing and accessories in a sleek, tuxedo blush, sparkling shop that offers “luxury and quality for less.” Ever sensitive to trends, Czupta monitors the fashion industry searching for unique, fresh pieces. Her selections run the gamut from basic elements to items that are just fun to wear. Delicately crafted tops are sprinkled with shimmery beading and accessorized classic dresses easily transition from work attire to evening wear. Statement necklaces are complemented by glittery earrings and bracelets, while gossamer-like hats add a bit of elegance. English Factory, Endless Rose and J.O.A. are among the shop’s many popular labels. — Diana Santos

and differing styles have contributed to the truly eclectic mix of unusual home décor items available at Joan’s Place in Wheaton (120 N. Main St., 630 665-5525). Canvas totes made from old army tents, metal artwork that you can’t describe but will want to buy, and furniture created from auto parts and recycled wood, are just a sampling of the variety of items that are available. In addition, Bohemian jewelry and items made by artists and craftsmen from around the globe make Joan’s Place ideal for gift buying. Pendulux clocks, described as “space age” and “industrial,” are clever and imaginative. A recent trip to Cambodia brought back wovens and leathers. Inventory in the store is constantly changing, so every visit is a new experience. Opened in 2014, the brick-walled and high-ceilinged shop is located in the heart of the downtown Wheaton business district. — Laurie Barton



Photo by Diana Santos

Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites

New Store Openings Following is a sampling of new shops that have opened in the last few months in the western suburbs. For a full list, go to westsuburbanliving.net. Nordstrom’s LAST CHANCE Clearance store that offers end-of-season merchandise and customer returns from Nordstrom Rack. 111 W. Jefferson Ave., 100 Yorktown

Shopping Center, Lombard, 630 599-2011

405 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, 630 574-2329

Alex and Ani Products that adorn the body, enlighten the mind, and empower the spirit.

Fabletics An innovative, high-quality line of athletic apparel for women and men that helps

you feel and look great for workouts and beyond. 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, 630 573-0700 HAMMER MADE Men’s clothing boutique

offering an apparel collection that contains distinctive, limited-run shirts made from the world’s finest fabrics. 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, 630 573-0700

22 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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TO THE

LOOK WESTERN SKY

By Joni Hirsch Blackman

Using Their Gift for Others Members of the DuPage Woodworkers Club create hand-crafted gifts for children in need

ike construction-paper chains that decorate Christmas trees, small actions can link together to brighten the spirit of the season. Take John Mele of Naperville, whose dad gave him a saw when he was a kid. As an adult, he now relaxes by woodworking. “I can go and get engrossed in it and not think about the problems of the day,” explains Mele. “Working with wood, saws and a drill you have to concentrate, so you concentrate on that.” His dad’s gift sparked the enjoyment Mele has so many years later, including the satisfaction he gets from making toys for children who won’t get many, or any, for the holidays. He does it through DuPage Woodworkers, a club that’s motto perfectly explains its mission — “Learning By Sharing the Art of Woodworking.” The toy donation project was started by former Marine Stan Anderson of Sugar Grove. The Korean War veteran was inspired by the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program. In its first year a decade ago, the group was able to donate 25 to 30 hand-crafted toys made by members. Last year, that number had grown to 2,500 items. To encourage participation, Anderson began presenting a “toy of the month” design to members at meetings — such as crayon holders in the shape of pigs, whales, hippos, turtles and polar bears. The target “market” is 1- to 7-year-olds, Anderson says, because after that, kids are “all about computers.” Therein lies the even deeper beauty of the already-generous toy donation program. How many of those children who receive a handmade wooden toy will play with it for countless hours, eventually

absorbing its simplicity, its feel? How many — without a dad to gift them a saw — may some day feel inexplicably drawn to woodworking thanks to dozens of surrogates who passed along a tradition? Even — or, perhaps, especially — those

They work on the toys in their own home shops, but since members’ own equipment runs the gamut from basic to elaborate, once a year, they kick off the program by working together, using equipment at WoodCraft in Woodridge.

“

How many of those children who receive a handmade wooden toy will play with it for countless hours?”

who prefer spending hours on video games right now. Wisely, the recipient charities ask the woodworkers to create toys children can play with, not masterpieces to place on a high shelf. “Heirloom toys never get to the kids,” explains Anderson. “They end up with sponsors of the charities.” DuPage Woodworkers craft unpainted toys, many with naturally different-colored woods. Some wood is donated by members, some by Owl Hardwood Lumber in Lombard. Walmart donates crayons for the crayon holders. The club uses membership dues to buy wheels and axles from a Maine company for the toy cars. Toys are distributed to places like homeless shelters, the Humanitarian Service Project, the Lions Club of Darien, Mutual Ground of Aurora, charities served by St. James Catholic Church in Glen Ellyn (where the club meets), Family Shelter Service in Downers Grove and Ronald McDonald House. One member brings toys to a charity in Chicago. Besides the crayon holders, members make trucks, cars, planes, helicopters and jewelry boxes.

The club also owns equipment to lend to members. “In woodworking, there are always two or three ways to make anything,” says Mele, who enjoys making gifts for his family as well as for the toy program. “You can use advanced tools, but you can also do it all by hand. You can always get another tool, but they did better work in the 1700s.” Though the majority are retired, members are all ages — the youngest is 16. Many schools, Anderson notes, have phased out their wood shop classes, so fewer youngsters learn the art of woodworking there. The DuPage Woodworkers’ website (www.dupagewoodworkers.org) features a wide range of impressive handcrafted wood pieces, from candle holders to large cabinets. “It’s always very rewarding when you’re part of a group doing something like this,” says Mele. “Every time we have a meeting, people bring in things they made — a cutting board or bowl, and when you see something someone has made, you want to try doing that. It opens up interesting possibilities.” Truly a tradition worth sharing. n

24 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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LOCAL AUTHORS Four Paws Up! Local author partners with community organizations to promote literacy

hildren’s Author Nancy Gee loves reading to children, but she especially loves how those opportunities spark amazing ideas and directions for her books. After she published The Secret Drawer in 2014, Gee met Benjamin, who had started an after school book club at the Lemont Montessori School and invited Gee to read to his book club. Benjamin’s review of her book inspired Gee to invite young readers to write reviews for her next book, The Secret Path (2016), which appear on the inside and cover. “Listen to children, they will amaze you,” says Gee. “Listening and watching young readers sparked the idea for my upcoming book.” Gee explains that while reading at a

Hinsdale Public Library children’s event, she noticed a child who went to a special room instead of attending her reading. Gee’s curiosity led her to investigate. In that room she saw a dog from the Hinsdale Humane Society’s Pet Therapy Volunteer READ program listening to a child read aloud to practice his skills.

“That was the moment I decided to write The Secret Room!” Gee explains. “I want to bring awareness to such programs and to the power that children and animals can give to each other through reading.” She participated in the Hinsdale Humane Society’s 2016 Pet Walk and Run, as well as various local reading events. The Secret Room will be released in Spring 2017 and through all of her books, Gee wants children to know that “through literacy, the world is yours.”

26 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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OUT&ABOUT |

THEATRE

COMEDY

ART

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

HOME & GARDEN

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Moscow Ballet

MUSIC

Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker Dec. 4 The holiday dance classic will be performed at the Rosemont Theatre with magical props, a 60-ft growing Christmas tree and Russian-made costumes and sets. Call 847 671-5100 for more information.

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Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of Dominican University

Out&about

Dec. 3 JIM BRICKMAN Piano sensation brings songs, sounds and stories of the season with his "Comfort & Joy" performance at Dominican University, featuring holiday classics and modern favorites. Call 708 488-5000

THEATRE | Reefer Madness... Tell The Children | Through Nov 5, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. Adapted from the anti-drug propaganda movie, "Reefer Madness," this dark comedy about marijuana in the late 30s takes a look at the attitudes and ideas surrounding the drug. Cost: $17/15. The Riverfront Playhouse, 11 &13 S Water St. Mall, Aurora. 630 897-9496 | Dr. Seward's Dracula | Through Nov 6, Wed − Sun, Wed & Fri 8 p.m., Thur & Sun 3 p.m. and Sat 4 & 8 p.m. When Dr. Seward is accused of killing multiple people, he must convince the police he is innocent and that Dracula is alive. Cost: $39/26. First Folio Theatre at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 986-8067 | Time Stands Still | Through Nov 12, Fri − Sat, 8 p.m.; Also, 3 p.m. shows on Sat, Nov 5 & 12 and Sun, Nov 6. After journalists James and Sarah return from the Mid-East, they must learn to repair their relationship and maintain a normal life with their now conflicting ideas. Cost: $18. Village Theatre Guild, 3S020 Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-8230 | Crazy For You | Wed − Sun, Nov 3 − Jan 8.; No shows Sat − Sun, Dec 24 & 25. Featuring music from George Gershwin, this musical comedy follows Bobby Child, a New York banker, sent to foreclose on a theatre in a small mining town, who instead falls in love with a local girl and vows to put on a show to save the theatre. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.drurylanetheatre.com. Cost: $60/45. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | Steel Magnolias | Thur − Sun, Nov 4 − 13, Thur − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This classic comic-drama centers on a close-knit group of women who gather at a smalltown beauty parlor where, over the course of three years, they share each other's joys and sorrows. Cost: $11/9. SecondSpace Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Frankenstein | Sat & Thur, Nov 5 & 10, 7 p.m. Enjoy a special encore screening of England's National Theatre Live's "Frankenstein," featuring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternating the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the creature. Cost: $20. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000

| 9 To 5: The Musical | Thur − Sun, Nov 10 − 13, Thur 8 p.m., Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Based on the 1980 hit movie, this musical tells the story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era when three female coworkers concoct a plan to get everything they ever wanted. Cost: $15/10. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | I And You | Thur − Sat, Nov 10 − 19, 8 p.m. Also, Sun, Nov 20, 2 p.m. Focusing on love, kinship and connection, this production follows the story of two teenagers, Caroline and Anthony, through the struggles of collaborating on an English project together. Cost: $7/5. Mill Theatre at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3005 | Judgment At Nuremberg | Sat, Nov 12, 7:30 p.m. Based on the Oscar award-winning drama, this stage adaptation poses questions about the human rights and social justice issues that America's entry into WWII posed. Cost: $49/24. Lund Auditorium at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000 | Garrison Keillor | Sun, Nov 13, 3 p.m. Winner of a Grammy, a Peabody, two ACEs and more awards in radio, this author/radio host shares stories, jokes and songs. Cost: $55/40. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Hamlet | Thur, Nov 17, 3 p.m. and Sun, Nov 20, 2 p.m. Academy Award nominee Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the role of Shakespeare's Hamlet, a prince on a path of revenge for the death of his father, in this special encore screening of the original 2015 broadcast. Cost: $20. Playhouse Theatre at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Shrek The Musical | Thur − Sun, Nov 18 − Dec 11, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This production tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land and learns to accept people for who they are. Cost: $23/20. Playhouse 111, 111 N Hale St., Wheaton. 630 260-1820 | Elgin Theatre Company: A Christmas Carol | Fri − Sun, Nov 18 − 20, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future take Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of redemption and self-discovery. Cost: $18/15. First United Methodist Church, 216 E Highland Ave., Elgin. 847 741-0532 | The Little Mermaid | Wed − Sun, Nov 25 − Jan 8, Wed −

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Out&about

Calendar of Events

Thur 1:30 & 7 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 3 & 8 p.m. and Sun 1 & 5:30 p.m.; Also, Wed, Nov 23, 7 p.m.; Sat, Dec 24, shows at noon and 5 p.m. Based on the Disney film, this production tells the story of Ariel on her quest for love and life on land, with the help of her friends Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the seagull, as she fights off the evil sea witch Ursula. Cost: $59/44. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | The Ultimate Christmas Carol | Fri − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 30, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m.; Also, Thur, Dec 22 − 29, 8 p.m.; No performances on Sat − Sun, Dec 24 − 25. This screwball musical, featuring Scrooge and the Cratchit family, combines the heart-warming original production, some modern time bends, original holiday songs, audience participation and more. Cost: $28/23. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521 | College of DuPage Theater: A Christmas Carol | Fri − Sun, Nov 25 − 27, Fri 7 p.m. and Sat − Sun 3 & 7 p.m. This timeless tale returns to the stage with Ebenezer Scrooge, the three visiting ghosts and the meaning of Christmas. Cost: $15/12. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Overshadowed Productions: A Christmas Carol | Thur − Sat, Nov 25 − Dec 17, Thur − Fri 7:30 p.m. and Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m.; No 2 p.m. show on Sat, Nov 26. Ebenezer Scrooge learns to value those close to him in this classic tale. Medinah Baptist Church, 900 Foster Ave., Medinah. 630 634-2100 | Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol | Thur − Sun, Dec 8 − 11, Thur − Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge's late partner, finds himself on a quest to escape his hellish bonds and to redeem Scrooge and himself. Cost: $30/20. Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall,

31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | The Christmas Schooner | Fri − Sun, Dec 9 − 18, Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Based on the historic Great Lakes voyages of Christmas tree ships during the late 1800s and early 1900s, this musical tells the story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. Cost: $20/15. Vero Voce Theatre, 951 State Ave., St. Charles. 630 965-0825 | Away In The Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas | Sat, Dec 10, 8 p.m. While the children get ready for the 1959 Sunday School Christmas Program, the women downstairs are called upon to save the day with their crazy antics and subtle charm. Cost: $50/22. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600

COMEDY | Billy Gardell | Sat, Nov 12, 8 p.m. Star of the CBS program "Mike & Molly" and Umpire Haze from "Undrafted," this comedian tells relatable stories of his childhood and raising a family. Cost: $65/55. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Nick Swardson | Thur − Sun, Nov 17 − 20, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. This stand-up comedian, actor and producer has had roles in "Blades of Glory," "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" and "Benchwarmers." For ages 18 and over. Cost: $33 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | George Lopez | Fri, Nov 18, 8 p.m. Host of TBS' "Lopez Tonight" and star of ABC's "George Lopez," this iconic

comedian performs his jokes about race, family and more. Cost: $65/57. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | Richard Lewis | Fri − Sat, Nov 18 − 19, 7:30 p.m. This comedian has been a part of HBOs "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and has published two different books on comedy and dark humor. Cost: $35 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Bobby Slayton | Fri − Sat, Nov 18 − 19, Fri 8 p.m. and Sat 7 p.m. Performing for over 20 years, this comedian has appeared in "Get Shorty," "Dreamgirls" and "Bandits." Cost: $25 + 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Amy Schumer Live | Fri, Nov 25, 8 p.m. Known for her performance in "Trainwreck," this Emmy Award-nominated comedian brings her standup to the live stage. Cost: $125/39. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Jake Johannsen | Fri − Sat, Dec 2 − 3, Fri 7 p.m. and Sat 9:30 p.m. This comedian and star of the 90s HBO comedy "This'll Take About an Hour" has performed at the inaugural Iowa Comedy Festival and "Late Show with David Letterman." Cost: $25 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue | Thur − Sun, Dec 2 − 23, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Enjoy music, comedy and festive skits as The Second City performs their holiday show. Cost: $36. Copley Theater at The Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

30 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Out&about

Calendar of Events

| Kathleen Madigan | Sat, Dec 3, 8 p.m. This awardwinning comedian and television personality has appeared on "The Last Comic Standing," "Conan" and more. Cost: $44/35. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The Second City Dysfunctional Holiday Revue | Sat, Dec 10, 6 & 9 p.m. Bringing more holiday mischief and a whole new cast, The Second City performs their newest material at this comedy event. Cost: $46/32. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The 12 Dames Of Christmas | Sat, Dec 10, 7 p.m. Singer and actress Angela Ingersoll performs holiday tunes in the style of Julie Andrews, Marilyn Monroe and more. Cost: $30. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Olan Rogers | Tue, Dec 13, 7:30 p.m. This YouTuber and comedian shares stories of science fiction, filming and more. Cost: $22 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Jeff Dunham | Sat, Dec 31, 3 p.m. Known for his popular puppets, this comedian brings his jokes to the stage. Cost: $51/36. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Lachlan Patterson | Sat, Dec 31, 10 p.m. Celebrate the new year with a special performance from this comedian, refreshments, a balloon drop and more. For ages 18 and over. Cost: $60 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001

MUSIC | LOVE In Concert | Fri, Nov 4, 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of jazz and country music, featuring Andrew Salgado, Wayne Messmer, Tristan Abrams and more. For more information, visit www.love-cc.org. Cost: $40/36. Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W Brush Hill Rd., Elmhurst. 630 512-8673 | Manhattan Transfer & Take 6: The Summit | Fri, Nov 4, 8 − 10 p.m. These two award-winning vocal groups team up to bring the audience a night of jazz, swing, gospel and more. Cost: $85/75. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Eroica Trio | Sat, Nov 5, 7:30 p.m. Featuring the piano, violin and cello, this award-winning group performs Loiellet's "Sonata in B Minor," Dvorak's "Slavonic Dance" and "Dumky Trio," and Shostakovich's "Trio No. 2." Cost: $45/10. Edman Memorial Chapel at Wheaton College, NE corner of Washington and Franklin St., Wheaton. 630 752-5010 | Engelbert Humperdinck | Sat, Nov 5, 8 p.m. Four-time Grammy Award-nominated singer, known for hits "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" and "After The Lovin'," brings his pop music to the stage. Cost: $65/55. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Jim Peterik & The Ides Of March | Sat, Nov 5, 8 p.m. Founder of the band Survivor and co-writer of "Eye of the Tiger," this songwriter teams up with old schoolmates, The Ides of March, to perform their classics. Cost: $40/35. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380 | Elgin Symphony Orchestra | Sat − Sun, Nov 5 − 6,

Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m. Enjoy this all-orchestral performance of Tchaikovsky's "Sleeping Beauty" and "Swan Lake." For tickets, visit www.elginsymphony.org. Cost: $65/30. The Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. 847 888-4000 | The Havana Cuba All-Stars | Sun, Nov 6, 2 p.m. This ensemble brings their traditional Cuban music and acoustic sound to the stage. Cost: $49/39. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Trevor Stephenson | Sun, Nov 6, 2:15 p.m. This pianist presents majory pieces by Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart and more on the Viennese-style fortepiano. Cost: $30/25. Arbor Room of the Thornhill Education Center at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Under The Streetlamp | Sun, Nov 6, 3 p.m. Former cast members of "Jersey Boys" bring their Doo-Wop, Motown and Rock n' Roll music to the stage. Cost: $59/49. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Orion Ensemble | Sun, Nov 6, 7 p.m. Enjoy this performance featuring Yadzinski's "Bartok Dances," John Williams' "Three Pieces from Schindler's List" and more. Cost: $26/10. First Baptist Church of Geneva, 2300 South St., Geneva. 630 628-9591 | Carrie Underwood | Wed, Nov 9, 7 p.m. The seven-time Grammy Award winner brings her "The Storyteller Tour: Stories in the Round" to the stage. Cost: $80/50. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford. 815 968-5222 | Meatballs -N- Mozart | Thur, Nov 10, 6:30 p.m. Enjoy dishes prepared by Levy Restaurants while listening to the

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Elgin Symphony Chamber Ensemble perform pieces from Mozart's greatest works. Cost: $25. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | Brian Setzer Orchestra | Tue, Nov 15, 7:30 p.m. Join the three-time Grammy Award-winning guitarist/vocalist on his 13th Annual Christmas Rocks! Tour featuring songs from his latest holiday album, "Rockin' Rudolph." Cost: $99/69. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | The Fabulous Thunderbirds | Fri, Nov 18, 7:30 p.m. For over 30 years, this American rock band has performed their diverse and unique musical hybrid songs including "Tuff Enuff" and "Wrap It Up." Cost: $38/36. Maggie Atcher Theatre, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | The Subdudes | Sat, Nov 19, 8 − 9:30 p.m. With 10 albums from over 25 years, this New Orleans-formed group performs music mixed with jazz, rock n' roll, R&B and more. Cost: $30/20. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Three B's, With A Twist| Sun, Nov 20, 3 p.m. Enjoy the music of Beethoven and Bizet, in addition to Brahm's "Violin Concerto in D Major," with the young virtuoso violinist and competition winner In Mo Yang. Cost: $33/15. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Glenn Miller Orchestra | Sun, Nov 20, 3 p.m. Performing for over 60 years, this orchestra is known for their swing/big band songs including "Moonlight Serenade" and more. Cost: $36. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Vikki Carr | Sun, Nov 20, 5 p.m. This four-time Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning singer brings her international music to the stage. Cost: $99/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Lee Murdock & Blue Horizon | Sat, Nov 26, 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with the "Christmas Ship Concert" from these two folk bands. Cost: $20. Maple Street Chapel, 200 S Main St., Lombard. 630 627-0171 | Wynonna Judd & The Big Noise Christmas | Fri, Dec 2, 8 p.m. The five-time Grammy Award-winning country music singer brings her iconic voice and her band to the stage. Cost: $99/89. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Candlelight Carols | Fri, Dec 2, 7:30 p.m. and Sun, Dec 4, 3 p.m. Get into the holiday spirit with traditional holiday carols, anthems and motets with new works mixed in, sung by the St. Charles Singers. For more information, visit www. stcharlessinger.com. Cost: $35/10. Baker Memorial Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. 630 513-5272 | Jim Brickman | Sat, Dec 3, 7:30 p.m. The piano sensation brings songs, sounds and stories of the season with his "Comfort & Joy" performance, featuring holiday classics and modern favorites. Cost: $53/23. Lund Auditorium at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000 | Danu | Sat, Dec 3, 8 p.m. This acclaimed Irish ensemble brings the music, dance and storytelling traditions of an Irish Christmas during "Christmas Gathering: Faile Na Nollag." Cost: $35/18. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Elmhurst Choral Union & Orchestra | Sun, Dec 4, 3 − 5:30 p.m. The Elmhurst Choral Union and Orchestra perform the Christmas classic, Handel's "Messiah" featuring guest soloists and a professional orchestra for Handel's most popular work. For more information, visit www.elmhurstchoralunion.org. Cost: $25/10. Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 33

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Calendar of Events

Photo by Lewis Lee

Out&about

Dec. 23 Trans-Siberian Orchestra The international progressive rock band performs its holiday show featuring lasers, a string section and a light show at Allstate Arena. Call 847 635-6601

the popular family holiday concert, featuring well-known holiday songs and more. Cost: $10/8. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | The Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza | Sun, Dec 11, 6 − 8 p.m. This holiday spectacle features music and dance from the Lennon granddaughters, the Andy Williams Band, The Moon River Band and more. Cost: $95/75. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | KISS FM Jingle Ball | Wed, Dec 14, 7 p.m. Enjoy this holiday performance with today's artists including Ariana Grande, Ellie Goulding, Lukas Graham and more. Cost: $115/30. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Kacey Musgraves: A Very Kacey Christmas | Thur, Dec 15, 8 p.m. This two-time Grammy Award winner celebrates the holiday season with songs off her new Christmas album. Cost: $50/30. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600

Elmhurst. 630 758-1100 | Marc Anthony | Sun, Dec 4, 7 p.m. The top-selling tropical salsa artist, and winner of two Grammy Awards and five Latin Grammy Awards, hits the stage. Cost: $179/59. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | For King & Country | Tue, Dec 6, 7 p.m. Awardwinning Australian brother-duo, Joel and Luke, perform hits from their "Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong" album.

Cost: $25. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford. 815 968-5222 | B96 Pepsi Jingle Bash | Sat, Dec 10, 6:30 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with performances by Britney Spears, Fifth Harmony, Shawn Mendes and more. Cost: $175/70. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Sweets & Musical Treats | Sun, Dec 11, 2 & 4 p.m. Join the DSO for

| Holidays A Cappella: Tales & Legends | Fri, Dec 16, 7:30 p.m. Ring in the season with holiday stories and songs, featuring Anne Heider as Guest Music Director. For more information, visit www.chicagoacappella.com. Cost: $43/15. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469; Additional performance on Sun, Dec 18, 4 p.m. at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 460 Lake St., Oak Park. | Celtic Woman | Sat − Sun, Dec 17 − 18, Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This all-female Irish ensemble, after releasing 10 albums and reaching platinum-level sales in nine countries, performs their "Home for Christmas, The Symphony Tour." Cost: $105/90. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E

At BMO Private Bank, we work hard to understand what is most important to you and your family. We guide you with authenticity and expert advice to create a distinct approach you need to manage your wealth. We have offices in Naperville and St. Charles and we work with clients all over the western suburbs. We look forward to serving all of your financial needs.

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Out&about

Calendar of Events

Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Mannheim Steamroller Christmas | Fri, Dec 16, 8 p.m. Marking the 32nd anniversary of the group's Christmas tour, this rock band, led by multi-platinum musician Chip Davis, performs their signature style of holiday favorites. Cost: $82/57. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600; Additional performance Sat, Dec 17, 8 p.m. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. Cost: $95/39. 847 671-5100 | Gavin Coyle | Sun, Dec 18, 3 p.m. Presented by McCormick Museum, this Irish singer/songwriter performs his traditional music with pop and folk influences. Tickets are limited. McCormick Museum at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Trans-Siberian Orchestra | Fri, Dec 23, 3:30 p.m. The international progressive rock band performs their holiday show featuring lasers, a string section and a light show. Cost: $77/47. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Brett Michaels | Fri, Dec 23, 8 p.m. The frontman from Poison hits the big stage with Christmas songs and originals. Cost: $99/49. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | New Year's Eve: 40 Years Of Philharmonic | Sat, Dec 31, 2, 5:30 & 9 p.m. Enjoy a performance from award-winning tenor, Jesse Donner, as well as traditional Viennese musical selections from Strauss, Lehar and more performed by the New Philharmonic. Cost: $65. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000

DANCE | Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl | Fri, Nov 4, 8 p.m. The nationally recognized Mexican folk dance troupe celebrates the traditional Mexican folklorico with colorful costumes, music and dance. Cost: $28/18. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Von Heidecke Chicago Festival Ballet | Sun, Nov 27, 2 p.m. Enjoy a full-scale, professional performance of "The Nutcracker," accompanied by the New Philharmonic. Cost: $42/23. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600; Additional shows Sat − Sun, Dec 17 − 18, Sat 2 & 7 p.m. and Sun 1 & 5 p.m. Cost: $43/32. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Schaumburg Dance Ensemble: The Nutcracker | Fri − Sun, Dec 3 − 11, Fri 7:30 p.m. and Sat − Sun 1 & 5 p.m.; Also, Sat, Dec 10 shows are at 2 & 7:30 p.m. With almost 150 performers, this troupe returns for its 22nd annual production of the classic tale of a young girl's vivid imagination filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers and more. Cost: $28/18. Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker | Sun, Dec 4, 1 & 5 p.m. Enjoy this peformance with magical props, a 60-foot growing Christmas tree and Russian-made costumes and sets. Cost: $122/28. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | Hip Hop Nutcracker | Fri, Dec 9, 7:30 p.m. Re-imagining Tchaikovsky's original ballet, this hip hop show features a dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ, an electric violinist and more. Cost: $75/25. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100

HOLIDAYS | Holiday Market | Fri, Nov 4, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m and Sat, Nov 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Arts, crafts and uique holiday gift items at Wilder Mansion, 211 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst. www.exploreelmhurst.com | Holiday Market | Thur − Sat, Nov 10 − 12, Thur 6 − 9 p.m., Fri noon − 8 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Enjoy this market of holiday-themed, vintage items from downtown retailers and selected artisans. Downtown Batavia. www.downtownbatavia.com | Christmas At The Mill Holiday Boutique | Fri − Sun, Nov 11 − 13, 10 a.m. − 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a special holiday shopping event with decorated Christmas trees, carolers, a visit from Santa, handcrafted Christmas decorations, jewelry, stained glass, pottery and more. Cost: $5/2. Graue Mill, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 655-2090 | Holiday Bazaar | Fri − Sat, Nov 11 − 12, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Browse an assortment of items, sample holiday foods and more at this fourth annual bazaar. Glen Ellyn History Society, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867 | Photos With Santa Claus | Mon − Sun, Nov 11 − Dec 24, Mon − Sat 10 a.m. − 9 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. Take a photo with Santa, grab some festive merchandise and more. Photo package cost: $48/22. Yorktown Center, 203 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 629-7330 | Petit Boutique Holiday Market | Fri − Sat, Nov 11 − 12, Fri 4 − 9 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Historic Pleasant Home’s annual holiday market features vendors of gourmet foods and handcrafted items such as jewelry, ceramics, glasswork, home décor and personal items. For more information, visit www.pleasanthome.org. Historic Pleasant Home, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park. 708 383-2654 | Museum Guild Bazaar | Sat, Nov 12, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Enjoy the 33rd annual bazaar with a selection of handmade ornaments and gifts as well as wreaths, decorations and more. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 510-4941 | Illumination: Tree Lights | Nov 18 − Jan 2, 5 − 9:30 p.m. (last entry at 8:30 p.m.). No light show on Mondays, Nov 21 – Dec 12, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. The Morton Arboretum brings back its annual tree lights show with LED lights that are voice-activated, lights synchronized to music by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and more. Tickets are limited. Registration required. Cost: $22/6. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 725-2066 | Light Up The Holidays | Fri, Nov 25, 10 a.m. − 7 p.m. Enjoy a holiday parade, festival, a tree lighting and more. Downtown Joliet. 815 774-6066 | Light Up the Night | Fri, Nov 25, 5 p.m. The arrival of Santa, the lighting of the Chritmas tree, plus free carriage rides and other festive fun. Geneva Commons, 602 Commons Dr., Geneva. www.shopgenevacommons.com | Holiday Walk & Tree Lighting | Fri, Nov 25, 6 p.m. Watch Santa light the tree, listen to holiday music and try some refreshments from local merchants. Downtown Glen Ellyn. www.glenellyn.org | Holiday Homecoming | Fri, Nov 25, and Sat Nov 26, Lighting of the Lights on First Street Plaza at 5 p.m. Friday with carols and an appearance by Santa. Free showing of Elf at the Arcada Theatre at 10 a.m. Saturday, Santa’s House open from 11 a.m-4 p.m., and the Electric Christmas Parade at 5:30 p.m. Main St between 5th St and 5th Ave,

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Calendar of Events

downtown St. Charles. www.downtownstcharles.org | Gingerbread Festival | Fri − Sun, Nov 25 − 27. Enjoy a gingerbread house contest, a tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa and other holiday-themed events. For full schedule, visit www.downtowndg.org. Downtown Downers Grove. 630 725-0991 | Festival Of Lights And Tree Sales | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 30, 9 a.m. − 9 p.m. View over 20,000 twinkling lights on the displays, purchase a Christmas tree and enjoy holiday gifts and refreshments. Cosley Zoo, 1356 N Gary Ave., Wheaton. 630 665-5534 | Wonderland Express | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Jan 2, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. (Nov 25 − Dec 15) and 10 a.m. − 7 p.m. (Dec 16 − Jan 2). This holiday exhibition features miniature trains that pass through mini-replicas of Chicago’s famous landmarks, caroling, ice sculpting, a Holiday Market, light show and more. For more information, visit www.chicagobotanic.org. Cost: $11/8. Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. 847 835-5440 | Naper Lights | Thur − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 24, Thur − Sat 5 − 9 p.m. and Sun 5 − 7 p.m. Stroll the museum grounds and experience a magical holiday lights celebration with large holiday-themed figures and lighted trees. For more information, visit www.naperlights.com. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Christkindlmarket | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 24, Sun − Thur 11 a.m. − 8 p.m. and Fri − Sat 11 a.m. − 9 p.m.; Additional market hours Mon − Fri Dec 19 − 23, 11 a.m. − 9 p.m. and Sat, Dec 24, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. Inspired by the traditional German event, this market features gifts, food and more. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. www.christkindlmarket.com

| Aurora Festival Of Lights | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 26, Sun − Thur 5 − 9 p.m. and Fri − Sat 5 − 10 p.m. Drive through the light show with gigantic snowflakes, Santa's Toy Factory, holiday trains and more. For more information, visit www.aurorafestivaloflights.com. Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Dr., Aurora. 630 408-5381 | Holiday Lights | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 31, 5 − 9 p.m. View over 1.5 miles of holiday light displays, occasional visits from Santa, crafts games and more. Cost: $10 per car. Mooseheart Child City & School, Mooseheart Rd & Route 31, Mooseheart. www.mooseheart.org | Dickens Of A Christmas Celebration | Saturdays, Nov 26 − Dec 24; Also, Lighted Holiday Parade Fri, Nov 25, 6 p.m. Enjoy visits with Santa, carriage rides, a gingerbread house contest and more. For full schedule, visit www.downtownwheaton.com. Downtown Wheaton. 630 682-0633 | Christmas In The Square | Sat, Nov 26, 1:30 − 4:30 p.m. This 11th annual holiday event features activities, holiday games, entertainment, pictures with Santa and more. 22 E Ninth St., Lockport. www.lockportpark.org | Celebration Of Lights Festival | Sun, Nov 27, 4 − 7 p.m. Celebrate the season with the Holiday Craft Market, tractor-pulled wagon rides, Christmas Tree Lane and more. Peg Bond Center at the Riverwalk, 151 N Island Ave., Batavia. 630 879-5235 | Mistletoe Medley | Tue, Nov 29, 9:30 a.m. − 3 p.m. Enjoy a luncheon, fashion show, a holiday boutique and more. Cost: $85. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | Cup Of Cheer | Fri, Dec 2, 9 a.m. − 4 p.m. Tour four

holiday-decorated homes, visit the Holiday Market filled with decorations and gifts, receive a commemorative souvenir cup and saucer, and enjoy coffee, tea and cookies. For more information, visit www.napervillegardenclub.org. Cost: $35. Downtown Naperville. 630 964-7408 | Geneva Christmas Walk & House Tour | Fri − Sat, Dec 2 − 3. Watch as Santa lights the great tree, roast chestnuts over a fire, ride on the carriages, listen to carolers and tour five holiday-decorated homes. For more information, visit www.genevachamber.com. Cost: $30. Throughout downtown Geneva. 630 232-6060 | Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society Holiday Housewalk and Market | Fri − Sat, Dec 2 − 3. Tour five architecturally significant homes in Oak Park and River Forest decorated for the holidays, and shop an artisan market for special gifts. $45 in advance, $50 at the door. Proceeds benefit the Infant Welfare Society's Children's Clinic. For advance tickets, itmes or more information, go to www.oprfiws.org or call 708 848-0528. | Santa House | Fri − Sun, Dec 2 − 23, Fri 4 − 8 p.m. and Sat − Sun noon − 6 p.m.; Also, Mon − Thur, Dec 14 − 22, 4 − 8 p.m. Visit Santa Claus and take a picture with him. For more information, visit www.napervilleparks.org. Photo cost: $15/8. Naperville Riverwalk, Jackson Ave. & Webster St., Naperville. 630 848-5000 | Holiday Stroll | Sat, Dec 3. Get in the holiday spirit with complimentary holiday treats throughout the day, cider and eggnog tastings, carriage rides, carolers and more. For full schedule, visit www.downtownwheaton.com. Downtown Wheaton. 630 682-0633 | Hometown Holiday | Sat, Dec 3. Celebrate the holidays with festive merchant open houses, live music, carolers,

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trolly rides and more. For full schedule, visit website. Downtown La Grange. www.lgba.com | Winterfest | Sat, Dec 3. Catch a glimpse of St. Nicholas on Marion Street, enjoy a variety of family-friendly acts and warm up inside with hot chocolate and coffee. Marion St. between Lake St. & North Blvd., Oak Park. www.visitoakpark.com | Mistletoe Market | Sat, Dec 3, 1 − 7 p.m. Stop by the market for handcrafted, unique gifts from local crafters. Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Lights Of Lisle | Sat − Sun, Dec 3 − 4. Enjoy the Santa parade, view the lights, pet the live reindeer and more at this holiday-themed event. For full schedule and times, visit www. villageoflisle.org. Downtown Lisle. 630-271-4100 | Hometown Holiday's | Sat, Dec 3, 3 − 8 p.m. Start the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting, visit with Santa, enjoy sleigh rides and more. Downtown Lemont. www.lemontchamber.com | Celebrate The Season: Holiday Festival | Sat, Dec 3, 4 – 7 p.m. Enjoy a sleigh ride, view the decorated park, stop by the Mistletoe Market and participate in an assortment of activities. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Frosty Fest | Sat, Dec 3, 4 – 7 p.m. View the old-fashioned winter vignette complete with a grand tree lighting, horse-drawn sleighs, live reindeer, Victorian carolers and Santa with Mrs. Claus. For more information, visit www. westchicago.org. Downtown West Chicago. 630 293-2200 | Holiday Magic | Sat − Sun, Dec 3 − 18, 4 − 9 p.m.; Also Mon − Sat, Dec 26 − 31. Chicagoland's largest and longestrunning lights festival celebrates its 35th year in operation with holiday activities, live entertainment, a model railroad and more. Free with zoo admission. Cost: $18/13. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Downtown Naperville Holiday Cookie Walk | Sun, Dec 4, noon − 5 p.m. Tour downtown Naperville and receive custom-made holiday cookies from local participating businesses, as well as a commemorative souvenir Cookie Tin. For more information, visit www.downtownnaperville.com. Cost: $20. Downtown Naperville. 630 544-3372 | Paws & Claus | Sundays, Dec 4 & 11, 7:30 p.m. Take a pet photo with Santa and your favorite furry friend. Yorktown Center, 203 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 629-7330 | Tree Lighting At Wilder Mansion | Thur, Dec 8, 5:30 − 8 p.m. Featuring holiday entertainment, a special visitor from the North Pole, children's activities in Wilder Mansion, live reindeer, an Old-Fashioned Tree Lighting and more. Wilder Park, 175 S Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 993-8900 | This Is Christmas | Fri - Sun, Dec 9 - 11. Festive and energetic stage show. Christ Community Church, 37W100 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles, 630 485-3300. Additional shows Sat Dec 10 at its Blackberry Creek Campus in Aurora and on Dec 16 at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb. For times and more information, go to www.ccclife.org/thisischristmas | Brunch With The Grinch | Sat, Dec 10, 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Enjoy a Grinch-themed brunch with a special appearance from the character and a viewing of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Reservations required. Free for children 3 and under. Cost: $20/14. The Red Oak Room at Cantigny Golf, 27W270 Mack Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8194 | Distinctly Hinsdale for the Holidays | Sat, Dec 10 & 17, 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Free family events, gingerbread cookie WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 39

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SHOP AND DINE DOWNTOWN GLEN ELLYN

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YOUR DESTINATION THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Olive ‘n Vinnie’s Oil and Balsamic Bar

449 N. Main St (between tracks and Einsteins) Glen Ellyn 630-432-6457 (OILS) oliveandvinnies.com Olive oils imported from 15 countries Balsamics from Modena Spice House blends LOTS of other gift ideas for men and women

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Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of Morton Arboretum

OUT&ABOUT Nov. 18-Jan. 2

ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS The Morton Arboretum brings back its annual holiday show with LED lights that are voice-activated, synchronized to music by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and more. Call 630 725-2066

decorating and horse-drawn carriage rides at Burlington Park, 30 E Chicago Ave, and holiday shopping at nearby stores and restaurants. www.villageofhinsdale.org | Christmas On The Farm | Sat − Sun, Dec 10 − 11, 1:30 − 3:30 p.m. Visit with animals, enjoy hot spiced cider and carols by the fire, take a picture with Santa and more. Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Rd., West Chicago. 630 876-5900 | Tanner House Holiday Showcase | Wed, Fri & Sun, Dec 11 − 30, Wed & Sun 1 − 4 p.m. and Fri 4 − 7 p.m. View the historic Tanner House museum's decorated rooms and vote for your favorite one. Tanner House Museum, 305 Cedar St., Aurora. 630 897-9029 | History Speaks: Mrs. Claus | Wed, Dec 14, 7 p.m. Learn the history behind Mrs. Claus and her introduction to the world through a book written by Katherine Lee Bates in 1899. For ages 15 and over. Cost: $10/7. Century Memorial Chapel, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Home For The Holidays | Sat, Dec 17, 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Celebrate the season with horse-drawn sleigh rides, a visit from Santa Claus and a special showing at Lake Theatre. For more information, visit www.downtownoakpark.net. Downtown Oak Park. 708 383-4145

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE!

Be sure to fill out your

BESTof THE WEST

ballot on page 16

| Drury Lane: New Year's Eve | Sat, Dec 31, 3, 6 & 9 p.m. As midnight approaches, enjoy a four-course dinner, a performance of "Crazy For You" and dancing until 1 a.m. Cost: $128/40. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | Zoo Year's Eve | Sat, Dec 31, 6 p.m. Ring in the new year with a live DJ, games, party favors and more. For more information, visit www.czs.org. Free with zoo admission. Cost: $18/13. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Light Up The Night | Sat, Dec 31, 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the end of 2016 with hor d'oeuvres, an open bar, a fivecourse duet dinner as well as a DJ and more. Cost: $475/275. Hilton Lisle/Naperville, 3003 Corporate West Dr., Lisle. 630 245-7600 | New Year's Eve Party | Sat, Dec 31, 7:30 p.m. − midnight. Listen to the countdown, enjoy a dinner buffet and live music, share an glass of champagne and ring in the new year. Cost: $77. St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, 2241 Rt. 59, West Chicago. 630 231-3100

ART | By All Accounts: The Story Of Elmhurst | Ongoing, Tue − Sun 1 − 5 p.m. A new, innovative and interactive exhibit that shows how Elmhurst has changed and grown over the past 165 years with artifacts and the latest museum technology. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457 | Fall Member Show | Through Nov 11, Tue − Sun, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. View over 50 different entries from local artists. For more information, visit www.elmhurstartistsguild.org. Free for members. Cost: $8/7. Elmhurst Artists' Guild, 150 Cottage Hill Rd., Elmhurst. 630 279-1009 | Revelations: Banner Paintings | Through Nov 11, Mon − Fri. Artist Glen C Davies displays his "imaginism" pop art with banner paintings featuring themes of figural fantasies, spiritual conflict and the journey toward enlightenment while drawing inspiration from canvas banners used to promote sideshow attractions at the circus. Founders Lounge at Elmhurst College’s Frick Center, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3390 | Selina Trepp | Through Nov 19, Mon − Sat, Mon − Wed & Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. and Thur 11 a.m. − 3 p.m.; Also, Thur 6 − 8 p.m. Artist Selina Trepp presents her "Do You Have Cents for Sensitive? I Have Cents for Nonsense," which features a range of multimedia work including photographs, drawings and stop motion animation. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2321 | BLOW UP: Inflatable Contemporary Art | Through Nov 27, Tue − Sun, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. This exhibit features inflatable objects ranging from the sleeping Buddha to colorful abstract shapes and investigates the ways artists can use air as a tool for creating large-scale sculptures. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Fine Art Of Fiber | Thur − Sun, Nov 3 − 6, Thur 6:30 − 9 p.m. and Fri − Sun 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. View the area's oldest and largest exhibition of over 150 fiber pieces including quilts, needle art, knitting, weaving and more. For more information, visit www.fineartoffiber.org. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. 847 835-5440 | The Nature Artists' Guild: Holiday Exhibit | Sat − Sun, Nov 12 − 13, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Enjoy more than 150 works

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of art celebrating nature and see demonstrations by the artists. Free with admission. Cost: $14/9. Cudahy Auditorium in the Administration Building at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | A World Of Colors | Tue − Sun, Nov 13 − Jan 6, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. Presented by the Elmhurst Artists' Guild, this art show celebrates the life and art of Holly Renald Cohn, a local artist and former member of the EAG who worked in many different media. Cost: $8/7. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 279-1009 | Christmastime At Fine Line Holiday Show & Sale | Mon − Sat, Dec 3 − 10, Mon − Thur 10 a.m. − 8 p.m. and Fri − Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m.; Opening night on Fri, Dec 2, 6 − 9 p.m. Enjoy the annual juried Members Show and Sale, browse a variety of items for sale, view the decorated buildings and more. Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-9443 | Holiday One Hundred | Mon − Sat, Dec 9 − 23, Mon − Fri 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 1 − 4 p.m. This art sale and fundraiser features the sale of original artwork by local artists in different media including oil, acrylic and more. Oak Park Art League, 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park. 708 386-9853 | Carol Brookes | Mon − Sun, Dec 16 − Jan 29, Mon & Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m., Tue − Fri 10 a.m. − 9 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Focusing on pulse and slant, this artist displays her series of works made of frame-like boxes constructed of wood and canvas, filled with sculptural structures and mixed media materials. Schoenherr Gallery at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-5375

FAMILY & GENERAL | Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey: Out Of This World | Thur − Sun, Nov 4 − 13, Thur − Fri 7 p.m., Sat 11 a.m., 3 & 7 p.m. and Sun 1 & 5 p.m. Additional show on Fri, Nov 4 at 10:30 a.m. This space-themed circus show features ice surfaces, video projection mapping and more. Cost: $65/20. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Monster Jam | Fri − Sat, Nov 4 − 5, Fri 7:30 p.m. and Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. Watch the 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound machines soar over and smash into obstacles.Cost: $30/20. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford. 815 968-5222 | The Price Is Right Live | Sun, Nov 6, 7 p.m. Television's longest-running and most popular game show comes to the live stage with classic games such as Plinko, the Big Wheel, Cliffhangers, Showcase and more. Cost: $52/34. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Veterans Day Luminary Tribute | Fri, Nov 11, sunset − 9 p.m Featuring more than 1,300 candles illuminating the galleries, this event also features framed stories symbolizing a celebration of past and present military service. First Division Museum at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8187 | Spherus: Greg Kennedy | Sat, Nov 12, 7 p.m. This awardwinning show, organized by an engineer, utilizes principles of geometry and physics to create a cirque performance. Cost: $29/15. Fermilab, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Family Night: Poinsettias, Trees & More | Fri, Nov 18, 4 − 7 p.m. Visit the greenhouse and see over 3,000 poinsettias in 15 varieties while enjoying crafts for children and more. Greenhouse & McCormick Museum at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161

Join us for the Naperville Garden Club’s TM

❄❆

2016 Cup of Cheer House Walk and Holiday Market THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tickets $55

rating Celeb rs of 56 yeavent! this e

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tickets $35

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❆

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Tour four beautiful homes decorated for the holidays

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Shop our Holiday Market for unique holiday decorating items and gifts

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Enjoy coffee/tea with delicious homemade cookies

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Ticket price includes the 2016 pattern selection of the bone-china cup and saucer for you to take home!

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Special discount for groups of 10 or more!

Contact: Barbara at 630 964-7408 or go to www.napervillegardenclub.org WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 43

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Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of North Central College

OUT&ABOUT

Dec. 17-18 CELTIC WOMAN The all-female Irish ensemble performs its "Home for Christmas, The Symphony Tour" at Pfeiffer Hall at North Central College in Naperville. Call 630 637-7469

| Light Up The Park & Frozemont | Fri, Nov 25, 11 a.m. Kicking off the Frozemont winter programing events, this tree lighting features a display of more than 80,000 lights in the park in addition to ice carving, sleigh-rides and more. Frozemont activities continue throughout the holiday season. For more information, visit www.rosemont.com. MB Financial Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008

Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111

| Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular | Sat, Dec 10, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy this holiday circus performance with feats of strength, skill and grace, accompanied by live music. Cost: $85/25. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100

| Breakfast With Santa | Sat − Sun, Dec 10 − 18, 9 & 11 a.m. An all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, musical entertainment, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. Reservations required and seating is limited. Cost: $30/22. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000

KIDS

| LEGO Train Show | Sat − Sun, Dec 10 − 11, 9 a.m. − 4 p.m. View the largest annual model train show and bring a gift for the Marine Toys for Tots program. Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161

| Jigsaw Jones And The Case Of The Clown | Wed, Nov 2, 9:30 a.m. & noon. Based on the book by James Preller, this play tells the story of Junior Detective Jigsaw Jones and how he uses his problem-solving skills to catch a practical joker at school. Cost: $9. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

| Holiday Bricktacular | Mon − Sun, Dec 1 − 30, Mon − Fri noon − 7 p.m. and Sat − Sun 10 a.m. − 7 p.m. Enjoy holiday fun with LEGO-themed events. Cost: $30/15. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago in the Streets of Woodfield, 601 N Martingale Rd., Schaumburg. 847 592-9700

| The Christmas That Almost Wasn't | Sat, Dec 10, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Experience the magic of Christmas with this behind-the-scenes peek at the hustle and bustle, and near disasters, of Christmas preparations in the North Pole. Cost: $12/6. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469

| Doktor Kaboom | Thur, Nov 3, 9:30 a.m. & noon. See the fun side of science with this educational show featuring electricity, rockets, physical science and more. Cost: $9. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

| Engineering FUNdamentals | Thur, Dec 15, 4:30 − 6 p.m. Bring Minecraft to life using LEGOs at this project-based program and learn real-world concepts in physics and engineering. For ages 7 − 12. Registration required. Cost: $25. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162

| Royal Ball | Sat, Nov 12, 9 − 10:30 p.m. Dress in your formal attire and enjoy live entertainment, crafts, activities and more. apervilleparks.org. Cost: $29/19. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center Community Hall, 305 W Jackson Ave., Naperville. 630 848-5000

| Bubble Bash 2016 | Sat, Dec 31, 9 a.m. − noon. Enjoy this 14th annual event featuring family activities, award-winning musicians The Boogers and more. Registration required. For tickets and pricing, visit www.dupagechildrens.org. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N Washington St., Naperville. 630 637-8000

| Junie B's Essential Survival Guide To School | Sat, Nov 12, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Based on the children's books by Barbara Parks, this play introduces Junie B's new friends, her work in the school cafeteria and how she learns to make the best of a bad situation. Cost: $20/12. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Drury Lane Theatre: A Christmas Carol | Mon − Sat, Nov 16 − Dec 23; No shows on Nov 21 − 24 & 28 − 29. The classic Dickens holiday show comes to life in this performance for young audiences. For times and tickets, visit www.drurylanetheatre.com. Cost: $15. Drury Lane

HISTORY | Who Was Sadie Cooksey? | Through Nov 7, Tue − Sat 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. An exhibition of professional photographer and former Genevan Maggie Foskett documenting the early history of the Illinois State Training School for Delinquent Girls or Geneva’s Girl’s School. Cost: $3/2. Geneva History Museum, 113 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-4951 | Giving Trees & 18th Century Créche Displays | Mon

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− Sun, Nov 22 − Dec 23, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. Enjoy decorated trees donated by local charities and a historic nativity scene from the 18th century. Geneva History Museum, 113 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-4951 | Remembering Marshall Fields At Christmas | Sun, Nov 27, 2 p.m. Author and lecturer Leslie Goodard traces the store's history from its beginning in 1852 to its demise in 2006 as well as the effect it had on Christmas and the holidays. Cost: $10. PCA Lecture Hall, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | Candlelight At The Inn | Sat − Sun, Dec 3 − 4, 3 − 7 p.m. Experience the tradition of winter visits as practiced by families like the Garfield's in their brick inn with music, a bake sale and more. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485

HOME & GARDEN | American Home Garden Design: 1830 To Present | Wed, Nov 2, 7 − 9 p.m. Find out how past and changing Midwestern garden designs can be applied to modern day garden styles. Registration required.Cost: $24/16. Thornhill Educaiton Center at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Four-Season Landscapes | Fri, Nov 4, 9 a.m. − noon. Learn about trees and shrubs that will improve the landscape year-round, speak with an Arboretum horticulturist and see examples of landscapes that work in winter. Registration required. Cost: $44/35. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Holiday Mosaic Windows | Sat − Sun, Nov 5 − 6, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Design a glass-on-glass mosaic, learn how to cut and score the glass to fit the mosaic, and create your very own to take home. Registration required. Cost: $170/148. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Weed Ladies Winter Floral Design Sale | Thur − Sun, Nov 10 − Nov 13,Thur − Sat 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sun 1 − 4 p.m.; Also, Fri − Sat, Nov 26 − Dec 17, 1 − 4 p.m. This sale features creative seasonal floral arrangements with silk and dried florals with a holiday theme. Daniel House at Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Holiday Open House | Sat − Sun, Nov 12 − 13, 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Grab some gifts from the gift area, taste the grilled food from Casey's Foods, and browse the seasonal merchandise including trees, wreaths, garlands and more while visiting with Santa and his reindeer. For more information, visit www.wannemakers.com. Wannemaker's Home & Garden, 1940 Ogden Ave., Downers Grove. 630 852-0700 | Build Your Own Birdhouse | Sat, Nov 12, 1 − 4 p.m. Build a rustic birdhouse using reclaimed materials under the step-by-step guidance of preservationist and woodworker Sharon McManis. Registration required. Cost: $44/35. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Shades Of Crimson | Fri, Nov 18, 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. View and choose from over 3,000 poinsettias in a variety of sizes and colors. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Wonderful Winter Containers | Sat, Nov 19, 9 − 11 a.m. Learn the principles of container design with an Arboretum expert as she demonstrates the correct potting strategies. Registration required. Cost: $44/35. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

December 3 & 4 n

Downtown Lisle Glows with Luminarias

Santa Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony

NEW! Lights of Lisle Holiday Market

Holiday Traditions of Yesteryear

Lisle Santa Train, Live Reindeer

Video & Activities Schedule at villageoflisle.org

stayinlisle.com

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Calendar of Events Photo by Alastair Muir courtesy of Broadway in Chicago

Out&about Phantom of the OPERA

| Thanksgiving Table Arrangement | Sat, Nov 19, 1 − 4 p.m. Make a small table arrangement using live and artificial botanicals ornamented with ribbon and jewels. Registration required. Cost: $44/35. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop | Mon, Nov 21, 6:30 − 9 p.m. Create a Thanksgiving centerpiece with fresh and dried florals in a variety of colors. Registration required. Cost: $50/45. Greenhouse at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Holiday Swags | Sat, Dec 3, 1 − 4 p.m. Find out how to incorporate evergreen branches and boughs into holiday swags. Registration required. Cost: $44/35. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Holiday Floral Arrangement | Wed, Dec 14, 6:30 − 9 p.m. Floral design instructor Janet Gallagher shows how to create a holiday centerpiece with seasonal greens and flowers. Registration required. Cost: $50. Greenhouse at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd.,Wheaton. 630 260-8162

Wor th Going Downtown For - King Charles III - Nov 5 − Jan 15. The Queen has died and Charles III is left to rule an England thrown into crisis in this "imaginary future history." For showtimes and tickets, visit www.chicagoshakes. com. Cost: $88/48. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E Grand Ave., Chicago. 312 595-5600

- America's Got Talent Auditions Sat, Nov 12, 8 a.m. Join the nationwide search for Season 12's newest acts and audition for your chance to be on the primetime entertainment program. Registration required. For more information, visit w w w. A G T A u d i t i o n s . c o m . McCormick Place, 2301 S King Dr., Chicago. www.nbc.com/agt

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago - Thur − Sun, Nov 17 − 20, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This dance troupe presents its Fall Series with two contrasting ensemble works featuring live vocals and body percussion. Cost: $102/30. Harris Theatre, 205 E Randolph Dr., Chicago. 312 334-7777

- Dance Theatre Of Harlem - Fri − Sun, Nov 18 − 20, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Enjoy the Midwest premiere of "System," a new ballet by choreographer Francesca Harper that explores artists' reactions to topics of race, gender and economics. Cost: $78/30. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago. 800 982-2787 Finding Neverland - Nov 22 − Dec 4. From Tony Award-winning

director Diane Paulus, this tells the story of "Peter Pan" author J.M. Barrie as he struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com. Cost: $115/24. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000

- A Christmas Carol - Nov 19 − Dec 31. Enjoy the timeless tale of hope and redemption with Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through his past, present and future to discover the importanceof friendship and love. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Cost: $103/25. Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St., Chicago. 312 443-3800

- ZooLights - Nov 25 – Jan 1. More than two million lights illuminate the night sky, plus visits from Santa, holiday crafts and activities, ice sculptors, treats and more. For full schedule, visit www.lpzoo.org. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St., Chicago. 312-742-2000

- Alan Cummings Sings Sappy Songs - Fri, Dec 2, 8 p.m. Actor, known for his performance in the "Spy Kids" trilogy and "GoldenEye," performs at this acclaimed cabaret show. Cost: $77/47. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000

- Stevie Nicks - Sat, Dec 3, 7 p.m. This multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning singer performs

"The 24 Karat Gold Tour," featuring songs from her newest album. Cost: $150/50. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 - Winter WonderFest - Mon – Sun, Dec 3 – Jan 8. This winter festival features rides, slides, a skating rink, tubing hill, meet and greet with Santa Claus and more. For hours, visit www.navypier.com. Cost: $10/7. Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave., Chicago. 800 595-7437

- Jerry Seinfeld - Thur − Fri, Dec 8 − 9, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Known for his hit TV show, this comedian performs his signature stand-up routine about the little things in life. Cost: $175/64. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 - The Joffrey Ballet - Tue − Sun, Dec 10 − 30; Also Mon, Dec 26, 2 & 7 p.m. Discover the magic of Chicago's 1893 World's Fair through the eyes of a child in "The Nutcracker," reimagined by award-winning choreographer, Wheeldon. For times and tickets, visit www.auditoriumtheatre.org. Cost: $150/35. Auditorium Theatre at Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago. 800 982-2787

- The Phantom Of The Opera Dec 14 − Jan 8. Enjoy Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical with classic songs such as "Music of the Night" and "Masquerade." For showtimes and tickets, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com. Cost: $107/32. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000

FASHION & BRIDAL | Fashionably Late Black Friday Sale | Thur, Nov 24, 10 p.m. 24 hours of Black Friday savings at more than 130 top designer outlets with DJ Lani Love spinning chart-topping hits throughout the mall. Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont. 847 928-7500 | Transworld's Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show | Thur − Sun, Dec 1 − 4, 9:30 a.m. − 5:30 p.m. View items from hundreds of exhibitors offering jewelry, housewares, gifts and more. For ages 16 and over. Registration required. Cost: $10. Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Dr. N, Schaumburg. 800 323-5462 | International Gem & Jewelry Show | Fri − Sun, Dec 9 − 11, Fri noon − 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. This show features hundreds of designers, manufacturers and companies bringing their high-quality jewelry selections to customers and wholesalers alike. For ages 9 and over. Cost: $6. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd., Rosemont. www.intergem.com | Bridal & Wedding Expo | Sat − Sun, Jan 7 − 8, 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. Wedding professionals help find the perfect gown, reception venue, photographer and more. For more information, visit www.bridalshowsillinois.com. Cost: $10. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd., Rosemont. 888 433-3976

FOOD & DRINK | Chili Cook-Off | Sat, Nov 5, 1 − 5 p.m. 8th annual cook-off features 15 local restaurants competing to win the top prize as well as a chili eating contest. For more information, visit www.downtownwheaton.com. Cost: $20/10. Downtown Wheaton. 630 682-0633 | Wine Walk & Shop | Sat, Nov 5, 1 − 5 p.m. Enjoy three wine tastings and finger foods from local eateries at each of the more than 15 unique boutiques, specialty shops and other retail locations. Registration required. Cost: $40. Madison St., Forest Park. 708 366-2543 | Eat Your Art Out! | Sat, Nov 5, 6 p.m. Annual fundraiser features fine art paired with food and wine, a silent auction and more. For more information, visit www.genevarts.org. Cost: $125. The Herrington Inn's Pump House, 15 S River Ln., Geneva. 630 938-4530

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| Ladies' Night Out | Tue, Nov 15, 5 − 9 p.m. Enjoy a night of music, cocktails, appetizers and special deals including an after-party at Northside Bar & Grill. Cost: $20/15. Various locations throughout Glen Ellyn. www.downtownglenellyn.com | Craft Beer Tasting At The Museum | Thur, Nov 17, 5:30 − 9 p.m. Sample over 40 hand-crafted and imported beers and ciders while enjoying live music by John Ivan. Cost: $21/18. Indoor auditorium in the Joliet Area Historical Museum, 204 N Ottawa St., Joliet. 815 723-5201 | Chocolate, Cheese & Wine Tasting | Fri, Nov 18, 4:30 − 8 p.m. Taste from the selection of cheeses, wines and chocolate with a variety of appetizers from local restaurants. Registration required. Cost: $35/30. Crowne Plaza, 250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-0907 | Arts & Crafts Beer Parlour | Fri, Nov 18, 6 & 8 p.m. Enjoy a fresh beer tasting from three local microbreweries in a historic setting. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $35/30. Pleasant Home, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park. 708 383-2654 | Suzette's Christmas Tea | Mon − Sun, Nov 25 − Dec 31, Mon − Sat 2:30 p.m. and Sun 1 p.m. Enjoy a three course meal with holiday teas, champagne and more. Reservations required. Cost: $55/35. Suzette's, 211 W Front St., Wheaton. 630 462-0898 | Arboretum Uncorked: Holiday Painting & SalvageStyle Terrariums | Wed, Nov 30, 7 − 9 p.m. Create a seasonal painting while you enjoy a glass of wine and goodies. Registration required. Cost: $50/40. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

SPORTS | Windy City Bulls | Fridays, Nov 11 & 25, Dec 9 & 16 and Jan 6; Also, Saturdays, Nov 19 & 26, Dec 17 and Jan 7, 7 p.m. The Chicago Bulls' newest D-league team plays against various opponents at its home court. Cost: $25/14. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | Chicago Wolves | Saturdays, Nov 19 & 26, Dec 3 & 17 and Jan 7, 7 p.m.; Sundays, Nov 27 and Dec 11 & 18, 4 p.m.; Tue, Jan 3, 7 p.m.; Wed, Nov 30, 7 p.m.; Thurs, Dec 22, 7 p.m.; and Fridays, Dec 30 & Jan 6, 7 p.m.; Also, Thur, Dec 15, 11 a.m. Chicago's AHL ice hockey team plays against their opponents at the home rink in Rosemont. Cost: $38/11. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Harlem Globetrotters | Tue, Dec 27, 7 p.m. Iconic traveling basketball team showcases its distinctive blend of court skills and comedy. Cost: $71/31. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford. 815 968-5222; Additional shows Wed − Thur, Dec 28 − 29, 2 & 7 p.m. at Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. Cost: $180/25. 847 635-6601

HEALTH & FITNESS | Cantigny 5K Run/Walk | Sat, Nov 5, 9 a.m. Celebrate Veteran's Day with this 5K run featuring a USATF-certified course, timers and digital clocks and more. Registration required. For more information, visit www.cantigny.org. Cost: $32/10. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8167 | Bonfield Express 5K | Thur, Nov 24, 8:30 a.m. Celebrate Thanksgiving at this USATF-certified course through scenic downtown Downers Grove. Registration required. Cost: $40/30. Main & Grove St., Downers Grove.

www.bonfieldexpress.com | Lions Club Reindeer Run | Sat, Dec 3, 8:30 − 11 a.m. Enjoy a 5K run, post-race refreshments and holiday fun. Registration required. For more information, visit www.wheatonparkdistrict.com. Cost: $40/25. Race start at Front & Main St., Wheaton. 630 510-5135 | Zumbathon Party 4 The Cure | Fri, Dec 9, 6:30 − 8:30 p.m. Burn calories and have fun at this annual fundraiser event benefitting the Breast Health Center featuring prizes, snacks and more. Registration required. Cost: $35/25. The Zone at the Community Center, 1777 S Blanchard St., Wheaton. 630 690-4880

ANTIQUES & CRAFTS | Holiday Craft | Tue, Nov 15, 6:15 p.m. Enjoy a special holiday craft to benefit the residents of the West Suburban Care Center. Registration required. St. Paul Church, 118 First St., Bloomingdale. www.bloomingdalegardenclub.org | Lapidary Day | Sat, Nov 19, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. See demonstrations by artists from the West Suburban Lapidary Club including beading, silversmithing and wire wrapping. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1616 | Christmas Crossroads | Sat − Sun, Nov 19 − 20, Sat 8:30 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Sun 9:30 a.m. − 3 p.m. Handmade crafts from more than 180 crafters at this juried show. Cost: $3/1. Field House at Lockport East High School, 1333 E 7th St., Lockport. www.christmascrossroads.com | Festival Of Arts & Crafts | Sat − Sun, Dec 10 − 11, Sat 9 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. View 200 indoor booths of hand-crafted items including holiday decor, oil paintings, water colors and more. Cost: $5. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 847 301-8543 | Holiday Art & Craft Market | Sat − Sun, Dec 10 − 11, Sat 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Shop for quality artisan holiday gifts for family and friends. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566

LITERATURE | Newt & Callista Gingrich | Fri, Nov 4, 7 p.m. The former Speaker of the House of Representatives and his wife introduce their literature including "Treason," the sequel to "Duplicity," and "Hail to the Chief," a picture book featuring Ellis the Elephant. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville. 630 355-2665 | Marissa Meyer | Sat, Nov 12, 2 p.m. Enjoy a Mad Hatter tea party including trivia, games, prizes and more including a book signing with Meyer as she presents her new book, "Heartless," the tale of the young Queen of Hearts and her quest for love in Wonderland. Cost: $25. The Corral, 4940 Willow Springs Rd., Western Springs. www.andersonsbookshop.com | Anna Kendrick | Thur, Nov 17, 7 p.m. This Academy- and Tony Award-nominated actress brings her book, "Scrappy Little Nobody," for a presentation and Q&A. Cost: $35/23. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln., Naperville. www.andersonsbookshop.com | Bernie Sanders | Mon, Nov 21, 7 p.m. Former presidential candidate shares his personal experiences and recouns the details of his historic primary fight. Cost: $32. Includes copy of Sanders' book, "Our Revolution." Residence Hall/ Recreation Center, North Central College, Naperville. Sponsored by Anderson's Bookshop. 630-355-2665 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 47

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Cup of Cheer House Walk in Naperville

Spirit of the Season Catching the

Christkindlmarket at Naper Settlement

Lights, Ice Skating and Carriage Rides at Frozemont in Rosemont

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A Christmas Carol by Overshadowed Theatrical Productions

Von Heidecke’s Nutcracker at College of DuPage

Infant Welfare Society’s Holiday Housewalk in Oak Park and River Forest

More than a dozen great ways to celebrate the holidays

et’s be honest: Scrooge was on to something. There is way too much to do during the holidays, and the kicker is that feeling happy is strictly not optional. The traditional “12 days” of Christmas epitomize the unrealistic expectations: it supposedly takes a dozen days to celebrate the season. Realistically, to survive the holidays nearly requires a 12-step program. Bah humbug indeed. Well, we have a cure for the holiday crunch. Put aside for at least part of a day your usual duties and experience the holidays in a new way. Stop and smell the mistletoe! Our gift to you this month is a list of activities to make the season truly merry. We’ve included some traditional, expected events and — like wrapped gifts — some surprises. In keeping with the spirit of the season, a few suggestions are best undertaken with children and others follow the adage that it’s better to give than receive. So take a respite from the stress and business that often accompanies the holidays, and celebrate the wonder and joy of the season.

Santa House in Naperville

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The Spirit of the Season Illumination at Morton Arboretum

Let There be Light “I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree,” Joyce Kilmer famously wrote. Poor Joyce would be left positively awestruck seeing the astounding holiday light display at Morton Arboretum in Lisle. Fifty acres of trees are transformed into a surreal but tenderly lovely landscape in its annual Illumination Nov. 18 to Jan. 2. More than 350,000 visitors in just three years have walked the one-mile path of blue, purple, green and hot pink lights. Various light shows, accompanied by appropriate music, create powerful thematic sensory experiences.

Illumination is especially popular with children who, in a touching scene, often impulsively hug the trees. “It’s a natural response for them,” says Anamari Dorgan, director of education at the Arboretum. “They get the ‘reward’ of being bathed in the glow of changing colors.” Returning displays include Tinsel Harmony, featuring innumerable strands of lit “tinsel,” and Meadow Lake Magic, in which tendrils of light ripple across water. New is Treemagination — projections of abstract designs splash across hemlock trees, which seem to breathe. Also new is Fantasy Forest, the grand finale where the

hedge garden showcases pencil-thin pillars of light extending skyward and appearing to happily chase one another. The finale took six months of design time to perfect. The LED lights for the entire show take a team of 25 more than a month to install. A number of other light shows also are exceptional. Even on a gloomy winter day, Brookfield Zoo is full of life and charm. The oldest and largest lights festival in the Chicago area (see page 13), its Holiday Magic in December transforms the grounds into an otherworldly getaway. The zoo is lit with more than one million LED lights. Held Nov. 25 to Dec. 30, the Festival of Lights at Cosley Zoo in Wheaton features 20,000 twinkling lights, holiday displays and Christmas trees for sale. The Aurora Festival of Lights is a free, drive-through light display at Phillips Park from Nov. 25 to Dec. 26. It features animated displays, holiday trains, gigantic snowflakes, elves and reindeer. Or check out Naper Lights, featuring a number of holiday-themed figures and lighted trees at Naper Settlement in Naperville. Take in the Sights in the Big City Back in the day, before suburbs realized Christmas belonged to them as well, no holiday season was complete without a trip to State Street to see the window displays. Marshall Field’s pioneered the concept in 1897 with its display of the latest Christmas toys. During World War II theme-designed windows that spanned State Street came into vogue. Sadly, Field’s is gone, but Macy’s upholds the tradition with its classy window display. Be sure to wander up to the Walnut Room on the 7th floor and order a potpie, a treat there since the early 1900s when a millinery department saleswoman made them at home and brought them to work so shoppers would not head home hungry. Schedule your trip to Chicago on Nov. 19 and take in the annual Tree Lighting Parade at 5:30 p.m., which kicks off the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. Or if you go later in the season, head

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over to Lincoln Park Zoo for its annual Zoolights presentation.

Brunch with the Grinch at Cantigny

Live It Up in Your Town Supporting local retailers is never as easy as it is at Christmas time. The shops often offer deals or goodies while the town supplies entertainment enticing for kids of all ages. The more vibrant downtowns up their game in December. The Santa Stroll in La Grange is Dec. 10. After shopping, enjoy one of many restaurants downtown on or near La Grange Road. Glen Ellyn’s Holiday Walk, this year set for Nov. 25, began in 1975. With help from the Fire Department, Santa lights the tree. Holiday music fills the air and merchants offer refreshments. Holiday Homecoming in St. Charles is Nov. 25 and 26. Featured are seasonal music, holiday movies, sleigh rides and the annual Electric Christmas Parade. A glitzy parade is also a central attraction in Naperville on Nov. 27 as the city kicks off its holiday season. Following the Little Friends Holiday Parade of Lights, children can visit Santa inside the Santa House on the Riverwalk. The Magic of Live Music Christmas music on the radio is fine, but for an uplifting communal experience hear holiday songs live. Try the Christmas Concert performed by accomplished jazz faculty at North Central College in Naperville. The Dec. 9 show at the Fine Arts Center features well-known holiday favorites with a jazz twist. Or check out the Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza on Dec. 11, also at North Central, featuring song and dance from both the Osmond Brothers and the Lennon Sisters, with music from the Moon River Band. Or for a more low key but equally meritorious performance, check the calendar of your local high school music department — its orchestra’s and choirs’ heartfelt renditions of familiar holiday tunes will likely surprise you with their virtuosity.

Santa House in Naperville

Oh, Tannenbaum Christkindlmarket, a German holiday bazaar, has been a popular draw downtown. Christmas trees originated in Germany after all, and German culture seems especially accommodating to the trappings of Christmas. You can still travel to Daley Plaza for the market, but this year the event will also be held at Naper Settlement Nov. 25 through Dec. 24. Its suburban location had been in Oak Brook. The switch to Naperville will allow for more vendors — at least 40 selling traditional gifts and food. As in Chicago, an annual

collector’s mug, one unique to Naperville, will be sold. Dash Through the Snow Just hear those sleigh bells jingling at Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton — if there is snow. Weather permitting, 20-minute guided sleigh rides are offered in December. Without ample snow, it becomes a wagon ride. Several retail districts will also be offering carriage rides including Downtown Downers Grove during its Gingerbread Festival Nov. 25 through 27; Lemont

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The Spirit of the Season

Christmas Walk in Geneva

during its Hometown Holiday celebration Dec. 3; downtown Hinsdale on Dec. 10 and 13 at Burlington Park; and on each Saturday afternoon during the holiday season in downtown Wheaton. Dive into Dickens Charles Dickens may have written A Christmas Carol, but the Goodman Theatre made it into a holiday staple for Chicagoans. It’s likely you or a family member or a friend have seen the production. Since first staged in 1978, more than 1.2 million theatergoers have delighted in the timeless tale of greed and redemption. It runs Nov. 19 to Dec. 31 and for the fourth year is being presented under the sure hand of director Henry Wishcamper. Those not wanting to venture into the city can catch Overshadowed Theatrical Productions presentation of A Christmas Carol in Medinah from Nov. 25 to Dec. 17; Steel Beam Theatre’s production of The Ultimate Christmas Carol from Nov. 25 through Dec. 30 in St. Charles; or Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol from Dec. 8 through 11 at North Central College in Naperville. Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace also offers a special production of A Christmas Carol specifically designed

for young audiences, which runs from Nov. 16 through Dec. 23. Get Nutty Top-notch ballet in the suburbs? And suitable for children? You bet. The Nutcracker plays at the Rialto Square Theatre Nov. 27 and at McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage Dec. 17 and 18. The production is choreographed by the highly acclaimed Ken Von Heidecke, founder and director of Chicago Festival Ballet and Von Heidecke’s Dance Center. A rarity, the ballet is accompanied by a full orchestra — the New Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Kirk Muspratt. “That just adds so much energy to Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous score,” says Diana Martinez, director of the Arts Center. Kids will adore the lavish costumes, a Christmas tree that grows, a battle between mice and soldiers, a journey through the land of whirling snowflakes and a joyous visit to the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Other enticements for the younger set include the brilliant young dancers in the production and an appearance in the lobby prior to the matinee performances by the mirthful man from the North Pole. Other productions include Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Dec. 4 as well as a hip hop version of The Nutcracker

on Dec. 9, both at Rosemont Theatre. And this year, Chicago’s Joffrey Ballet will feature the debut of award-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s Nutcracker at the Auditorium Theatre from Dec. 10 through 30 A Very Pleasant Stroll Geneva is so un-suburban, a village that seems transplanted from the forests of upstate New York. Christmas Walk in Geneva is a walk back in time — you’re no longer in 2016 and its digital frenzies but somewhere in the golden past with its fixed traditions. The festivities start with a lucky young boy or girl presenting the season’s first candy cane — made by the peerless Graham’s Fine Chocolates — to the mayor. The merry parade features 80 bell ringers and 15-ft-tall toy soldiers, who are accompanied by the Geneva High School Drumline. Next Santa Lucia, part of the Swedish branch of the Santa Claus tree, distributes Pepparkakor cookies. Tap the cookie right in the middle with an index finger. Your wish will come true if it comes apart in thirds. If not, well, enjoy the cookie — and the lighting of the 50-ft-tall Great Tree after the arrival of you-know-who. The hefty man in the red suit also does the honors in opening up the delightful Gingerbread House. The walk is Dec. 2; the village’s Holiday House Tour is that day and the following day. Five grand homes are decorated for the holidays. Among them are an 1898 beauty with a 4th-floor ballroom and an 1893 Queen Anne with a charming Victorian clock. See how the other half lives (the half with time and ingenuity to transform a home into a Christmas palace). Included in the tour are a traditional holiday tea and a booklet on Christmas decorating and entertaining. Because walking is good for you and Wheaton has a housing stock anything but cookie-cutter, also check out the Wheaton Holiday Housewalk on Nov. 12. Four homes will be decorated for the holidays — both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

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An 1894 Victorian incorporates salvaged items from Wheaton’s original community school, Longfellow. Step into the original foyer and be transported back to the time of gas lights and a slower Christmas pace. Also featured is a one-of-a-kind home built in 2002 but inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s late 19th-century architectural style. The home has an open, fluid room flow, stained glass accents and the use of Roman brick. Other great options for soaking in some holiday ambiance are the Naperville Garden Club’s Cup of Cheer House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea and the Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society’s Holiday Housewalk and Market. Now in it’s 56th year, the Cup of Cheer — this year slated for Dec. 1 and 2 — will feature four Naperville homes decked out in their holiday finest. The Infant Welfare housewalk on Dec. 2 and 3 will spotlight five architecturally significant homes in Oak Park and River Forest festively decorated for the season.

Christmas Tea at Suzette’s in Wheaton

$5 parking fee by donating a new, unwrapped toy for the Marine Toys for Tots.

Catch a Spot of Tea At the aforementioned Cup of Cheer House Walk, you will also be treated to tea and receive a collector’s cup and saucer. You can also do a traditional Christmas Tea at Suzette’s in Wheaton from Nov. 25 through Dec. 31, which includes quiche, scones and a variety of sweets and pastries. The Little Traveler in Geneva also offers a traditional multi-course tea on Thursdays and Saturdays, as does Pinecone Cottage Tea House in Downers Grove on Wednesdays through Sundays.

Join the Army So who are those people ringing the bells for the Salvation Army? It could be you. The requirements are simple — the ability to ring a bell and the willingness to pleasantly say to shoppers “Merry Christmas” and “thank you.” Volunteers can select a time, date and location convenient for them. Just go to www.registertoring.com. No worries either about accessories: a kettle, bell and apron are provided. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Most shifts are at least two hours and volunteers are encouraged to work four hours. Can’t stand the cold or can’t stand at all? Ring a virtual bell at Online Red Kettle.

A Twofer An unusual but definitely worthwhile family event is the LEGO Train Show Dec. 10 and 11 at Cantigny Park in Wheaton. The train show coincides with the holiday brunch with the Grinch Dec. 10 at Cantigny Golf. Feast on a Grinchthemed buffet along with a viewing of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The Grinch himself will also how up. Skip the

Joy to the World — Of Shut-Ins Caroling door to door is cool, but it’s also often awkward both for the homeowners and singers. Here’s a suggestion: round up a half-dozen friends, practice a few well-known holiday tunes, buy red stocking hats and perhaps funny red noses or antlers, scrounge up some bells or cymbals, print out the sheet music so no one fumbles for the words under the

pressure of performance and, after making arrangements, bring holiday cheer to some nursing home residents. They’ll love it, even if your voices are not in perfect harmony. One more suggestion: devise a catchy name for your impromptu choir. It gives your group cache and may convince your listeners you’re not new at this. To really make a friendly impression, bring along tins of homemade cookies for residents. Stop and Reflect Mindfulness is hot. In our busy, 24/7, digital lives, we are now reminded to pause and just breathe. To slow down and appreciate the moment. Well, at Christmas, appreciate our humble place in the world. Life is a gift. Maybe times are tough and days are stressful. But there is love and peace beyond ourselves, larger than our woes. The good news endures and resonates with greater clarity at Christmas. n

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Photo courtesy of Marcel’s Culinary Experience

Simply Elegant

Photo courtesy of Scentimental Gardens

Holiday Entertaining by Sara Pearsaul Vice

ere come the holidays and all the happiness and hassle of entertaining family and friends. Whether you are planning a Thanksgiving dinner, a Hanukkah or Christmas Eve supper, or a New Year’s Eve soirée, we have you covered, with expert tips for making things just a little less stressful while celebrating the season in style.

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mental Gardens

Photo courtesy of Scentimental Gardens

Photo courtesy of Cocoon

Beautiful settings in your home can help set the mood for a festive holiday season.

A Little Help from your Friends No, you do not have to do it all, although you may feel compelled to do everything yourself when you entertain. But if you invite people to a dinner party who then offer to bring their favorite dishes, it is perfectly fine to accept. It’s also a good idea to discuss what course would be best, such as an appetizer, salad, side dish or dessert. For a big event like Thanksgiving, the host will typically provide the meats, beverages and other essentials, while guests may bring the remainder. If cooking is not your thing and you need everything catered, or if you just want to supplement your meal with something special, the western suburbs abound with wonderful foodie destinations where you can find prepared foods that are as good as any restaurant, and perhaps even as good as home cooking. “People are reconnecting with their past as far as food for the holidays goes,” observes Executive Chef Patrick Cassata of Standard Market, with stores in Naperville and Westmont. He sees hosts moving away from avant-garde menus meant to impress to “killer, old-style food,” done with a modern twist. “We want our guests to experience the ‘wow’ factor,” says Cassata. Standard Market’s holiday catering menu reflects that love for tradition, with

all the classics from mashed and sweet potatoes to herb stuffing, green bean casserole, orange cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. You can always get more modern fare to round out the meal, such as fall kale salad, sushi trays and vegetarian and vegan selections. Standard Market also offers specialty foods from Jewish traditions, such as potato latkes and challah bread, although it is not a kosher operation. Because Standard Market makes everything from scratch, Cassata encourages customers to ask for exactly what they want, but he advises that party hosts place their special holiday orders with the concierge well in advance. Although the stores stock many of these items, you may find that your favorites are sold out if you wait too long to purchase or to place an order. With the renaissance of classic cocktails and the popularity of wines and craft beers, parties that focus on beverages and finger foods are making a comeback, especially for casual evening gatherings for neighbors, friends and co-workers, as well as New Year’s Eve. Caterers and food purveyors, such as Moveable Feast in Geneva and Marché in Glen Ellyn, can provide gourmet party platters of hors d’oeuvres, charcuterie and wine and cheese pairings to make entertaining easy.

Planning and Prepping Ahead Imagine sitting down to host a dinner party without being totally exhausted already. Assistant Resident Chef Laura Woloszyn of Sur la Table in Naperville says it can be done. “The number one thing I see that people do is they think they have to do everything right before dinner,” she says. “It can be very stressful.” Instead of spending the two days before the holiday cooking, she recommends starting two to three weeks in advance, which is what restaurants and bakeries do in order to have so many selections ready to serve. Of course, that means you have to plan the menu ahead and determine what dishes can be made and frozen without compromising the taste. For her own family gatherings, she bakes and freezes her homemade rolls two weeks ahead of time, which then can be popped in the oven right before dinner is served. She notes that many desserts also keep well in the freezer, including cookies, pies and even buttercream-frosted cupcakes. Her secret to keeping the frosting intact is to freeze the cupcakes solid before putting them in a container for longer-term freezer storage. “Just take them out and let them defrost at room temperature,” she says. When reheating prepared foods, the oven is usually the best choice. “As a chef, I can’t stand the microwave,” says Cassata.

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Photos courtesy of Standard Market

Photo courtesy of Butterball

Holiday Entertaining

Nothing says the holidays more than good food.

“It dries out proteins” such as meat, he explains “Have patience. Let the ingredients do what they are supposed to do and just reheat them in the oven” for the best flavor and texture. Talking Turkey The big bird is perhaps the most daunting of all cooking tasks, no matter

how many years you have been serving turkey for the holidays. Take heart. The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line is staffed with 50 culinary experts in its Naperville office to answer your questions throughout November and December, including the actual holidays. “The number one question we get, year after year, is ‘How do I go about thawing my turkey?’” explains Nicole Johnson, co-director of the Talk-Line. “People forget that it takes time to thaw — 24 hours for every four pounds.” So Butterball has declared the Thursday before Thanksgiving, November 17, as “National Thaw Your Turkey Day.” No matter how massive the bird, it will be completely thawed if you pull it out of the freezer and store it in the refrigerator a week ahead. For instructions on thawing and cooking, see www.butterball.com. If thawing is a concern, many markets offer fresh turkeys. Other frequently asked questions (and answers) of the Talk-Line include: how to know when the turkey is done (use a meat thermometer); how to carve a turkey (check out the pamphlet in the turkey packaging or the online video); how long the turkey can safely sit out (slice it off the bone and put it in a container in the refrigerator within two hours); and what happens if the plastic packages of gizzards and the neck are left in the turkey while it cooks (no worries because they are in a food-safe bag). Phew! Learning from the Pros If you want hands-on help, you’ll find plenty in the area’s cooking classes geared to holiday entertaining. At Marcel’s Culinary Experience in Glen Ellyn, November and December classes include Make Ahead for the Holidays, Effortless Entertaining, Cooking for a Crowd, and How to Throw the Ultimate Holiday Dinner Party. “People want it to be simple, but still elegant, and special without being complex and overwhelming,” maintains Marcel’s owner Jill Foucré of holiday meals. She shares that all of the classes provide tools for the home cook’s toolkit,

while offering a chance to “have a relaxing evening with friends and family.” There are even kids’ classes and mini-camps between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. At Sur la Table, Woloszyn notes that its Take and Bake Holiday Pies classes — where you bake the pie in a dish that you can take home — are among its most popular class offerings for the holidays. “You learn techniques and your pies are done for Thanksgiving,” she says. Other holiday classes cover such subjects as Thanksgiving favorites, holiday cakes and breads, cookie decorating, and making a stress-free holiday dinner, along with classes for ethnic foods from Italy, Spain, France and Thailand. For holiday classes, be sure to reserve ahead as class sizes are limited. Decorating the Table The holiday dining experience simply would not be the same without a beautiful dinner table-scape. Here, too, setting the right tone at the table need not require tremendous time and effort. “People are looking for something different and new, more simplistic and not gaudy,” observes Jenni Webber of Cocoon in Geneva. She sees three trends in holiday décor this year: a clean, sleek look with natural materials in neutral colors; a retro Christmas vibe with vintage ornaments recreated from the 1940s and 1950s; and a more refined use of metallics such as silver and gold. For a centerpiece that lasts, Webber suggests putting together a vignette in a terrarium. The contents can change over time, using pumpkins, gourds and fall foliage for Thanksgiving and swapping in a Christmas scene with houses, ornaments and a tiny string of lights for December. “Terrariums are a big hit,” she says, because they are easy to do and “a lot of fun.” She recommends scattering candles and tea lights near the centerpiece and down the table. Foucré sees interest in color schemes that are less traditional, such as deep indigo blue and copper for fall. She suggests mixing hand-carved wooden serving pieces with metallic accents.

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Table linens also make a big statement and Marcel’s sells handmade table runners and table toppers from Shine Handmade in St. Charles. Christmas dinnerware remains popular, particularly the more casual stoneware from Juliska and Casafina. “People get accent pieces like dessert plates, which can completely change the look of the table,” she says. At SG Geneva, owner and designer Debra Phillips likes to incorporate natural materials of all kinds in her table decorations for the holidays. She searches her own garden and along roadsides to collect interesting branches, leaves, ornamental grasses, dried flowers and pods, which she then incorporates in an arrangement for fall. She may add feathers, pumpkins and fruits such as apples, pomegranates and mandarin oranges for color and texture. For Christmas, she will use freshly cut evergreen and boxwood branches, as well as red twig dogwood branches, pinecones, rosehips and viburnum berry, along with ribbons and a few faux berries for pops of color. She incorporates flameless candles into her arrangements and all along the table and mantel for a warm glow without the worries. “You don’t have to be a floral arranger to do this,” Phillips says. “Start putting things in a vase, a bowl or a basket. The best advice is don’t be afraid of it. Just play.” If you plan to use the arrangement as a centerpiece, Phillips recommends keeping it “long and low,” so that dinner guests can easily see one another across the table. You can see her work at one of the homes featured on the Geneva Christmas House Tour, December 2 and 3. Phillips and our other experts remind us that, while good food is a very important part of the holidays, spending time with friends and family is really at the heart of it all. Phillips has a tradition of asking her guests to bring family photos from different generations, which are then spread on the dinner table during dessert so that all can share fond memories. “A lot of what the holidays represent,” says Cassata, “is getting back to family and food and celebration … and the romance of the gathering.” n

Photos courtesy of Scentimental Gardens

Holiday Recipes From Laura Woloszyn, Assistant Resident Chef, Sur la Table, Naperville

Pear and Ginger Spice Cakes and Butterscotch Sauce Yield: 2 loaves For cake: 3 cups granulated sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1-1/4 teaspoons sea salt 3/4 cup vegetable oil 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste 3-1/2 tablespoons finely chopped candied ginger 3 large firm pears, peeled, cored and diced in 1/2-inch pieces 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting pans Unsalted butter for pans For butterscotch sauce: 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup packed golden brown sugar 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter loaf pans and dust with flour. The cakes: To a large mixing bowl, add the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices, salt, oil and eggs; whisk until smooth. Add diced pears and ginger and stir until well combined. Add flour and stir until just combined; batter will be stiff. Fill loaf pans two-thirds full. Bake until cakes are golden and tester inserted into center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, and then turn out onto a wire rack to cool further. The sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar; stir until well combined and bubbling, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the cream, watch as the mixture will bubble. Reduce heat to low and simmer, whisking until thickened, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla paste and salt. Sauce will thicken as it cools. Serve over cake.

1 cup apple, peeled, small dice 2 tablespoons finely minced garlic 1-1/2 teaspoons curry powder 4 teaspoons garam masala 3/4 cup apple juice or cider 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar 8 cups vegetable stock 3/4 cup carrot juice (if necessary to thin) Crème fraiche or yogurt, optional 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, optional Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, rub the cut sides with oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves, cut side down on a parchment paper-lined sheet pan and roast for 45 minutes or until flesh is tender and easily pierced with a knife. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. While the squash is roasting, in a soup pot, melt the butter and sauté the onions, celery and apple until tender and beginning to brown; add garlic and continue sautéing for two to three minutes. Add the cider or juice to deglaze the pan and cook down until virtually dry. Add the squash flesh, the curry powder, garam masala, and brown sugar to the pan and stir to combine and warm. Add the stock and bring to a boil over high heat. Lower heat and maintain a simmer for about 45 minutes until all flavors meld. Transfer soup in batches to a blender to puree or alternately use an immersion blender until soup is creamy and smooth. Thin with carrot juice if soup is too thick. Ladle into dishes. Top with a dollop of yogurt or crème fraiche and cilantro for garnish if desired.

From Alyssa Stone, Head Cheesemonger, Standard Market

The Perfect Cheese Platter 1 hard cheese 1 soft cheese

From Jill Foucré, Marcel’s Culinary Experience

Roasted Butternut Squash Bisque 4 to 5 lb. butternut squash (or combination of alternate squash) 1/4 cup olive oil for tossing with squash to roast 2 teaspoons salt 2-1/2 teaspoons white pepper 1/2 cup butter 1-1/2 cup onions, small dice 1 cup celery, small dice

1 blue cheese 1 cave aged cheese 3 accompaniments = a cheese tray with something for everyone Accompaniments No cheese plate would be complete without a few non-cheese items to offer contrasting flavors and textures. Fresh fruit, crackers, nuts, jams and honey are all excellent choices.

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Gift Guide Leading area retailers share some of their best holiday gift-giving suggestions

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

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HEARTS ON FIRE Ignite passion with Hearts On Fire Diamond Jewelry, the World’s Most Perfectly Cut Diamonds set in 18K gold. Prices starting at $550. STATE STREET JEWELERS, 230 W. State St., Geneva, 630 232-2085

SPARKLING STAR MERCURY GLASS BOWL Make the holidays glow with this elegant twin-candle centerpiece designed in an exclusive Mercury Glass bowl that will be enjoyed for years to come. Item #6X100. Local and nationwide delivery by PHILLIP’S FLOWERS in Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, La Grange, Lombard, Naperville, Westmont and Wheaton. Call 630 719-5200 or visit www.PhillipsFlowers.com.

ACCESSORIZE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Find unique and affordable accessories to complete your holiday look! Treat yourself to a formal clutch for all your holiday festivities and pick up a stack of Lily & Laura bracelets (3 for $38) for a friend! VINTAGE CHARM, 729 Hillgrove Ave., La Grange, 708 354-1553; 22 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills, 630 581-5369; and 1735 N. Damen, Chicago, 773 687-9731. www.shopvintagecharm.com

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING’S

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French for “beautiful star” BELLE ETOILE uses colorful mixes of classic and unique patterns for exciting award winning jewelry. Come see the collection! Starting at $95. Altobello Jewelers, Town Square Wheaton 630 871-9000

West Suburban Living’s

Gift Guide

Special Adver tising Section

belle etoile

God jul! Find joyful innovative gifts with a European twist at Stockholm Objects. Everything from home accents to clothing and jewelry. Now two locations! SO Hinsdale, 39 S. Washington; and SO La Grange, 717 W. Hillgrove, 630 655-0966

Brighton Christo Cuffs Choose from a selection of beautiful Brighton Christo cuffs in either gold or silver. Each has a 2-color leather insert. $78. Additional inserts available for $15. Deans Clothing, 226 S. Main St., Naperville, 630 355-3007

Old World Holiday Charm Tuck a little bit of Bavaria in your tree this season with these charming ornaments. ($4.99-$5.99). Find unique holiday wreaths and containers, fresh cut greens, trees and thoughtful gifts. The Growing Place in Naperville at 25W471 Plank Rd., 630 355-4000 and Aurora at 2000 Montgomery Rd., 630 820-8088, www.thegrowingplace.com

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HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Visit Vintage Charm this holiday season and get inspired with decorating ideas! Our Annual Holiday Open House is in Clarendon Hills on Saturday, November 5th 10 a.m.-4 p.m., La Grange on Tuesday, November 8th 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Bucktown on Saturday November 12th 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Vintage Charm, 729 Hillgrove Ave., La Grange, 708 354-1553; 22 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills, 630 581-5369; and 1735 N. Damen, Chicago, 773 687-9731, www.shopvintagecharm.com

The Largest Tacori selection in Chicagoland Holidays are built on love, romance, and sparkling surprises. Celebrate the season with stunning and intricate jewelry from Tacori, handcrafted in California. Bella Cosa Jewelers 7163 S. Kingery Highway, Willowbrook, 630 455-1234, www.SeeBeautifulThings.com

ELEGANCE AND EASE West Suburban Living’s

Gift Guide

Gift yourself and others with elegance and ease. Shop Ming Wang’s newest arrivals. This cerulean blue and black graphic stripe knit jacket is styled with a bright cerulean shell and classic black knit pants. Available in missy and women’s sizes. M6622AC Jacket: $294-$356; Tank: $98-$130; Pant: $160-$188. MING WANG, at Von Maur at Yorktown in Lombard, 630 953-8181; and The Quad St. Charles (formerly Charlestowne Mall) in St. Charles, 630 377-9987.

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Wear this necklace as a reminder of the delicate balance between darkness and light. It adapts to any occasion because it can be worn two ways. One side is chocolate cubic zirconia and the other side is dazzling white zirconia. Two necklaces in one, both glamorous and alluring. Available at MURRAY’S IRISH OUTFITTERS located in the Oakbrook Promenade Mall, 3021 Butterfield Road. 630 572-1520 www.murraysirishoutfitters.com

Gift Guide

SPECIAL ADVER TISING SECTION

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING’S

KEITH JACK NIGHT & DAY

CUSTOMIZED MASSAGE Black Friday thru Sunday, December 4th: Buy the perfect holiday gift for family or friends. Two one-hour customized massage sessions for $109 ($69 savings, limit 4 gift cards). ELEMENTS MASSAGE, 507 S. 3rd St., Geneva, 630 232-7335

MELANGE FLEECE QUARTER-ZIP PULLOVER These cotton quarter-zip pullovers stack up better than the rest. They’re exceptionally soft and they’ve arrived in new seasonal colors from Peter Millar, $145. DEANS CLOTHING, 226 S. Main St., Naperville, 630 355-3007

TOWN HOUSE BOOKS Share the gift of a book with a child in need. Pick out a favorite book and Town House will discount it 20 percent, wrap it and deliver it to the families of our local Head Start program in time for Christmas. TOWN HOUSE BOOKS, 105 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles. 630 584-8600 or www.townhousebooks.com

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GRAHAM’S TRUFFLE ASSORTMENTS Santa’s Best Kept Secret!! Give the gift of chocolate with an assortment of our delicious hand-rolled truffles. Our proprietary blend of French ganache truffle centers are the crème-de-la-crème of fine chocolates & will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Celebrate deliciously this holiday season with gifts from Graham’s. Truffle Assortments $3.50 & up. Will ship anywhere in the U.S. GRAHAM’S FINE CHOCOLATES & ICE CREAM 302 S. 3rd St., Geneva, phone: 630 232-6655 Order online: www.grahamschocolate.com

CUSTOM STATIONERY, GREETING CARDS & HOLIDAY GIFTS Find the perfect holiday gift or personalize some stationery. Don’t forget a card! Having a party? Snag some holiday napkins while we print the invitations. SASS-N-CLASS 19 W. First St., Hinsdale, 630 655-2420

TONI SAILER WINTERSPORT FASHION Toni Sailer represents a luxurious, fashionable statement and an incomparable attention to detail in Wintersport fashion. KING KEYSER SPORT, 41 S. Washington St., Hinsdale, 630 323-4320 or www.kingkeyser.com

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING’S

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Gift Guide NEW GIFT WRAPPED WINTER ORNAMENT BOX Say “Season’s Greetings” to everyone on your list with this cheery bouquet of bright holiday blooms nestled in a ceramic ornament box with shimmering silver details. Item #6X400. Local and nationwide delivery by PHILLIP’S FLOWERS in Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, La Grange, Lombard, Naperville, Westmont, and Wheaton. Call 630 719-5200 or visit www.PhillipsFlowers.com.

ELLE JEWELRY ELLE Jewelry is Sensual, Simple, and Subtle. Their luxurious collections are created with only the highest quality of 925 Sterling Silver & Gemstones. Prices starting at $50 STATE STREET JEWELERS, 230 W. State St., Geneva, 630 232-2085

SO CHARMING FUR adorning and adoring . . . these whimsical fur handbag charms/key chains are available in various colors, patterns and fur types at YorkFur.com or in-store at YORK FURRIER 107 N. York St., Elmhurst, 630 832-2200

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The Olive Mill Give the gift sure to please! Experience the European tradition of sampling the freshest selection of small batch and artisan extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world! Great holiday gift ideas and tantalizing choices for entertaining. Gift baskets, body lotions, soaps and more. Cruets and dipping bowl sets, Tapenades & gourmet dips, flavored oils and vinegars. The Olive Mill, 315 James St., Geneva, 630 262-0210 or www.olivemillgeneva.com

COMFY, COZY KNITWEAR Discover our newest styles, perfect for the holidays. Ming Wang’s knitwear is machine washable and dryable, wrinkle-resistant and fade-resistant. This palm green and black side-striped long jacket is available in missy and women’s sizes. M6601AB Jacket: $294-$356; Tank: $98-$130; Pant: $160-$188. MING WANG, at Von Maur at Yorktown in Lombard, 630 953-8181; and The Quad St. Charles (formerly Charlestowne Mall) in St. Charles, 630 377-9987

STERLING SILVER BRACELET William Henry sterling silver ’snake’ bracelet with inset red topaz, on rubber and stainless cord. Available at Bella Cosa Jewelers, 7163 S. Kingery Highway, Willowbrook, or call 888 632-3552 or go to www.williamhenry.com.

West Suburban Living’s

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Gift Guide

DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE GIFT CARDS

Give the gift that allows them to choose with a Downtown Naperville gift card! For use at over 150 shops and restaurants. Two designs to choose from — an all season card (not pictured) or a new holiday design (shown). No fees to purchase! May be purchased in person or online and mailed to you or a lucky recipient. DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE ALLIANCE, Main Street Promenade, 55 S. Main St., Suite 351, Naperville. 630 544-3372 or www.downtownnaperville.com

KENDRA SCOTT We are so excited about our selection of handcrafted jewels by Kendra Scott this holiday season. Find gorgeous pieces that perfectly compliment holiday dresses and other ones that dress up your cozy sweaters. Gift these stunning statement earrings for that someone special. VINTAGE CHARM, 729 Hillgrove Ave., La Grange, 708 354-1553; 22 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills, 630 581-5369; and 1735 N. Damen, Chicago, 773 687-9731. www.shopvintagecharm.com

NEW THOMAS KINKADE SANTA COLLECTIBLE Share the magic of the season with this radiant centerpiece crowned with a new hand-painted Kinkade collectible with children talking to Santa. Item #6X200. Local and nationwide delivery by PHILLIP’S FLOWERS in Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, La Grange, Lombard, Naperville, Westmont, and Wheaton. Call 630 719-5200 or visit www.PhillipsFlowers.com.

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Photo courtesy of Studio 19

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Photo courtesy of Studio 19 Photo courtesy of Gallery’s Choice

Work of TR Biddle/photo courtesy of Ed Hoy’s International

Photo courtesy of Studio 19

f you are looking to add a personal touch or artistic statement to your interior, consider art glass, which includes everything from stained glass windows to leaded glass cabinet doors, fused glass vessels and glass tile mosaics. Art glass spans different eras, from restored pieces of the past to modern works, and can be fashioned to complement nearly any style, from traditional to contemporary. “It beautifies in a way no other art form can — with transmitted and reflected light,” says Rose

Jarecki, who, along with her husband Bill, owns Gallery’s Choice in Downers Grove, where they create custom stained glass and fused glass works. “There is something about the color of the light as it passes through the glass. It’s like aromatherapy for your eyes.” Form and Function

While the history and beauty of art glass are big attractors, functionality is another key to its appeal. “We went through many periods when it was very

popular as an art medium, and people are familiar with seeing it and are finding new ways that it fits into their homes,” says Steven DuCharme, marketing director for Ed Hoy International in Warrenville, one of the country’s largest suppliers of materials and tools for glass artists. Homeowners often look to stained or leaded glass windows to provide privacy without blocking too much light, particularly in bathrooms and bedrooms. It is also popular to incorporate stained glass as an accent in the kitchen or to

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LIGHT & COLOR

change a few cabinet doors so they have textured, frosted or leaded glass panels. Jarecki says that people often mistakenly believe that a custom stained glass piece is beyond their price range. “It really isn’t,” she says. “It’s comparable to having custom blinds and draperies made for your window.”

installed in the traditional manner, he has also been creating windows for Photo courtesy of Law Sedory installation on the interior of modern insulated double-paned windows. If an exterior window with natural light is not an option, light boxes can be made to encase a glass piece and provide a static light source. “Although this has actually been around for over 100 years, Beyond Windows the advent of small and cool temperature Windows and doors are the most LED lights have made this even more common places to incorporate art glass. approachable for more applications,” “Putting in a stained glass window can explains Sedory. transform a space with light and color,” Art glass is also being used in other says TR Biddle, owner of TR Biddle Art ways, such as for freestanding sculptures Glass in St. Charles. “It becomes the or wall décor. “You can also do something focal point of any room. With natural a bit more modern with glass and design lighting outside, the changes that occur than what many may think of when they across the span of a day makes it a more think of stained glass,” says Sedory, who interesting piece.” has been doing some installations that are more open and sculptural. “I hope to Owner of the Art & Glass Studio in Wheaton, Law Sedory says that, although he promote the notion of stained glass used has done a lot of work on historic buildings in conjunction with wood and metal as and older homes where windows are art installations in the home as, say, a

Photos courtesy of Gallery’s Choice

Hands-on Learning

For those who wish to make their own art glass home accents, there are many opportunities throughout the western suburbs. At Gallery’s Choice, Bill and Rose Jarecki teach stained glass classes several times a week. The duo discovered their passion for stained glass by taking a class together as a young couple, and today they enjoy introducing others to the craft. “Our students range from beginners to those working on Tiffany-style lamp shades,” says Rose. “You don’t need previous experience — we’ll walk you through all the steps.” Ed Hoy International in Warrenville also offers a variety of classes, from

beginner to advanced. The business often hosts guest artists from nearby Chicago area as well as those from as far away as Australia, who come to teach classes in their various art glass specialties. Through the classes, people learn a variety of techniques to make their own art glass pieces, from smaller items like fused-glass plates or holiday ornaments, to larger works, such as a stained glass window or a mosaic. “There is something to be said for having something unique in your home, especially if you make it yourself,” says DuCharme.

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partition wall or other large focus of the room, not only windows.” Evolving Techniques

“The range of art glass now covers a huge spectrum,” says DuCharme. “It’s everything from traditional stained glass and restoration work to fused glass jewelry, dishware and display pieces. Some artists are creating custom molds of shapes and incorporating them into stained glass, creating a bridge between different styles.” Biddle is one such artist. He began working with stained glass 40 years ago as a hobby, did it professionally for a few years, then left for an information technology career. About seven years ago, he rediscovered the art and was excited to learn new techniques for glass fusing that he could mix with traditional stained glass techniques. For example, he might melt glass onto molded ceramic tiles to create pieces with texture that resembles the veining in leaves. “I really enjoy combining the different techniques and different ways of working with glass because it allows me to do things I wasn’t able to do before,” he says. Standing Out and Fitting In

Traditional styles, inspired by the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany and Frank Lloyd Wright, continue to be popular, but designs featuring flora and fauna or geometric shapes, offer a more contemporary twist. Many homeowners choose pieces that reflect the age or style of their home. Hobbies can also trigger design ideas. For example, the Jareckis crafted a 4- by 5-ft Tiffany-style window modeled after one of their clients’ garden. John Clark, owner of Wardell Art Glass in Aurora, has been creating and restoring stained glass for nearly two decades. He feels that the best art glass enhances its environment. “To me,” says Wardell, “it’s the most successful when it becomes part of the entire design as a whole, when it looks like it has been there from day one, not something that was imposed on the space.” n

Great Ideas for the

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Photos courtesy of Riverside Community Development Department

by Lynn Petrak

he best place to sit and think about what makes Riverside such a special community is actually at the riverside. There, at the edge of the Des Plaines River in Swan Pond Park, the view from a wooden bench is one right out of a postcard. From various vantage points, one can see the sun-dappled surface of the water, acreage of green space, rows of pristine trees, a grand stone library with leaded glass windows, a swinging bridge over the river, and, just beyond, a quaint downtown, complete with a charming train depot and elegant water tower that has become a village icon.

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Photo courtesy of Riverside Community Development Department

Rivers

Photos courtesy of Riverside Community Development Department

Photo by Ed Ahern

Photo courtesy of Riverside Community Development Department

rside It’s not your imagination. This really is a town that teems with charm. “Riverside is really a hidden gem in Cook County,” maintains Sonya Abt, community development director for the village. “It’s pastoral, and it has an unparalleled small town ambiance that has stood the test of time.” David Moravecek, president of the

Riverside Chamber of Commerce and owner of the Ivins/Moravecek Funeral Home, concurs. “First of all, the entire Village of Riverside is a Historical National Landmark and was just rated as one of the ten most significant towns that shaped America,” he points out. JoAnne Kosey, a native Riversider and longtime organizational volunteer,

Designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Riverside is considered the first planned community in the country.

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Riverside

Statistical Snapshot Photo courtesy of Village of Riverside

Population 2015 pop est – 8,835

g Increase from 2000 – 0.2% g Median age – 41.8 g 19 and under – 26.8% g 20-24 – 3.9% g 25-34 – 10.3% g 35-44 – 14.9% g 45-54 – 16.6% g 55-64 – 12.7% g 65 and over – 14.8% g % Male – 49.1% g % Female – 50.9% g % White – 92.8% g % African-American – 1.2% g % Asian – 1.3% g % Hispanic – 15.2%

or higher – 60.7%

g % Graduate or Professional

degree – 31.5%

– 672

gM edian Household

g Gross median rent – $881

Income – $97,900

Business/Employment

Housing

Education g % High school degree

– 69.4%

g % Bachelor’s degree

g Owner-occupied units – 2,618 g Renter-occupied units

Income

g Total households – 3,548 g% Family Households

or higher – 94.5%

Houses – $289,664

g % Residents Employed – 97.6% g % Residents Unemployed – 2.4%

g Avg. Household Size – 2.6 gM ean Price for Detached

g Avg. Travel Time to work

– 29.7 min Sources: U.S. Census, City-Data.com and usa.com

commissioner and board member who was named Riverside’s “Person of the Year” in 2008, says that people who visit Riverside are struck by its appeal, whether it’s their first time or whether they’ve been there decades. “One year, my husband Joe and I went north to see the fall color and as we came home and turned back into Riverside we said, ‘We don’t have to go anywhere. This is a really pretty place.’ It really is beautiful every time of the year,” says Kosey, who raised two now-adult children in town, one of whom lives in Riverside with her family and one who lives in the town next door. The fact that many people who grew up in Riverside often move back underscores the ways in which the village becomes ingrained in its residents. “It feels like home. It’s amazing how many generations — second and third — come here to raise their families and be close to the city, but far enough away. It’s a slower pace in Riverside, but to its benefit,” says Scott Zimmer, owner of the Chew Chew restaurant and soon-to-open Sawmilly. Riverside’s allure is no accident. This community, spanning only about two square miles just southwest of downtown Chicago, is considered the first planned community in the country. It was

designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, known for the design of New York City’s Central Park, with his business partner Calvert Valux. The village layout is noteworthy because of the curved roads that follow the bends of the land along the Des Plaines River, the recessed streets, and the more than 40 triangular green spaces that allow for park-like vistas throughout the community. A common source of humor among locals is that when out-of-towners drive into Riverside they are amazed by its bucolic beauty, but the same curved streets that give it such a pastoral look also tend to make navigating especially challenging. “If you stand outside, you’ll watch people circle. After a while, I’ll usually ask what street they are looking for, or what house they are going to, and then try to get them there. Sometimes, I’ll just say, ‘Wait, follow me’ and I’ll get the car and have them follow me,” says Kosey with a laugh. (Note to visitors: An easier way to navigate Riverside is by way of Burlington Avenue from Harlem Avenue). While Riverside is known for its history and throwback charm, the community’s leaders and residents are keen about staying current, with some new and in-the-works projects.

“We work closely with our preservation society and we get feedback from individuals and community groups,” says Village Manager Jessica Frances, “whether it’s on the restoration of an existing building or something new.” Village in a Forest: Downtown Riverside One area of recent change in Riverside is in the downtown business district along the railroad tracks leading to and from Chicago. “We have an ample amount of green space, but we want to capitalize on that and market our central business district. Over the past year, we’ve done much to enhance the amenities of the districts, working on attracting new businesses and working on façade improvement,” explains Frances, adding that Village President Benjamin Sells and other leaders have focused on reinvesting in the community. According to Abt, the recent streetscape improvements in downtown Riverside, which include new brick pavers and planters, reflect the focus on making the central district an attraction for residents, visitors and new businesses. “We have a couple of new restaurants getting ready to open,” Abt reports, which include Zimmer’s Sawmilly as well as a La Barra, from the owners of the original La Barra and LaBriola Café in Oak Brook. Zimmer says that downtown Riverside is an attraction for a lot of reasons. “We have a very loyal following of Riverside residents, and I think what we offer is something special that makes people want to venture here,” he explains. There are other places to get a bite in downtown Riverside, too, including Mollie’s Public House, Erika’s Deli, Empanadus and Flur, a gluten-free bakery and café. Those with a sweet tooth can choose from an array of treats at Aunt Diana’s Candy Makers, a Riverside staple known for its homemade confections, along with frozen bananas and popcorn. Those with a taste for some fine spirits can check out Quincy Street Distillery, which makes small-batch spirits and

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Riverside

Photo courtesy of the Chicago Zoological Society

Resources Recreation

 Centennial Park 10 Pine Ave., 708 442-7025. Community park where different activities are held throughout the year.  Guthrie Park – Bloomingbank

Rd., 708 442-7025. Central park by the Des Plaines River where Riverside Arts Weekend is held.

Events

Brookfield Zoo

Riverside Public Library  Total

Holdings – 77,917  Items Checked Out Per Year – 129,869  Visitors Per Year – 133,349

Attractions  Avery

Coonley House 350 Fairbanks Rd., 312 731-8000. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908 and declared a National Historic Landmark.  The

Arcade Building 1 Riverside Rd., 708 447-2700. First commercial building built in Riverside and one of the earliest examples of a multi-shop, commercial building in the nation.  Brookfield

Zoo 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, 708 688-8000. Zoo houses around 450 species of animals in an area of 216 acres. Though its address is in neighboring Brookfield, a part of the zoo is located in Riverside.  The Frederick Law Olmsted Society of Riverside www.olmstedsociety.org. Society dedicated to

sustaining the original landscape architect’s vision for the village through guided tours, events and more.  Riverside Swim Club 100 Bloomingbank Rd., 708 447-6134. Private club founded over 50 years ago offering lessons, a swim team and more.  Water Tower – 10 Pine Ave., 708 447-2700. Designated an American Water Landmark in 1972 by the American Waterworks Association and the symbol of the village.

Museums

 Riverside Arts Center 32 E Quincy St., 708 442-6400. Center showcasing art from local members as well as studio spaces, a clay studio and more.  Riverside Historical Museum – 10 Pine Ave., 708 447-2542. Promotes awareness and understanding of cultural and historical significance of the village through exhibitions, online presentations and more.

features a retail shop and “speakeasy” cocktail bar for tastings. Riverside is also home to an independent grocer, Riverside Foods. In recent years, Riverside Foods has added more craft beers and natural and organic products, in addition to its grocery items and fullservice deli meat and bakery departments. Among the product lines it carries is Red Hen Bread, founded by a native Riversider. Beyond its food and beverage offerings, there are other shopping opportunities in downtown Riverside. Dating to 1948, Higgins Glass, for example, is known all over the world for its handcrafted fused

 Cruise Nights & Car Show Downtown Riverside, 708 447-2700. Annual summer show featuring classic, hot-rod, muscle and vintage cars.  Holiday Stroll – Downtown Riverside. 708 447-2700. Visit with Santa, enjoy holiday activities and more at this annual event held in December.  Independence Day 5K Run 4th of July Celebration Downtown Riverside. 708 447-2700. Holiday event featuring a 5K, fireworks and more.  Riverside Arts Weekend Held in Guthrie Park. Early summer show featuring a juried art fair, live music, theater, architecture and more.  Walking Tours of Riverside Departs from Riverside Train Depot, 90 Bloomingdale Rd. 708 442-7675. Discover the landscapes, streets, parks and more, and admire more than 70 architectural gems by Frank Lloyd Wright, William Le Baron Jenney and other architects at this annual fall event.

glass artworks and giftware. Many service businesses have become community fixtures as well, including Burlington Realty, Gaslight Realty, Ivins/Moravecek Funeral Home, and Pre-Hop Cleaners, to name a few. While downtown Riverside is a central location for commerce, it is also the site of various special events throughout the year, including the Farmer’s Market from June through October, weekly Cruise Nights in the summer, and the Riverside Arts Weekend in May. Arguably, the biggest festivity of the year in Riverside is tied to the Fourth of July. The village hosts

an annual concert in the park on July 3 and a July 4 Independence Day 5K Run, followed by a morning parade along Longcommon Road and a post-parade festival in Guthrie Park. When the Great Recession spurred economic concerns, the Fourth of July festivities were in danger of being discontinued, but residents and supporters — chief among them, Kosey — banded together to raise funds to keep the party going. Today, the Friends of the Fourth group is strong and has continued the traditions. “Many people are staying home now instead of going on vacation or out for the 4th because they’re finding you can have a great time here — it’s very folksy and just very nice,” says Kosey. As one might expect, the holidays look like a Currier & Ives postcard in Riverside, and that includes community gatherings. “One of the biggest events is coming up — the Holiday Stroll on December 2,” says Moravecek. The Holiday Stroll includes shopping, a performance by Madrigal singers from Riverside-Brookfield High School, a village tree lighting, and the arrival of Santa Claus by fire truck. As the village has welcomed new businesses and enhanced its streetscape, it has also launched new events. “Our newest Riverfest and Rivinia musical events bring the community and surrounding areas together for music, food and fun,” notes Moravecek. Another newer event is the Hop Stop craft beer festival, offered by Riverside Foods and the Frederick Law Olmsted Society. Held in September at the Riverside train station, the Hop Stop spotlights craft beers from a variety of regional and local brewers, along with food trucks and live music. All proceeds benefit the Frederick Law Olmsted Society. A Sustainable Vision: the Olmsted Society The recent Hop Stop event raised funds to help the Olmsted Society in its efforts to preserve and promote Frederick Law Olmsted’s vision of sustainable neighborhoods and communities. “We had more than 500 people here and only

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Photos courtesy of Olmsted Society

TOWN FOCUS

Photos by Ed Ahern

Photos courtesy of Olmsted Society

The Hop Stop Craft Beer Festival (above and top right) spotlights craft beers from a variety of regional and local brewers, along with food trucks and live music.

six pounds of waste,” notes Robert Dixon, president of the Olmsted Society. The Olmsted Society dates back 50 years and has a core group of committed members from and sometimes beyond Riverside. Dixon was a new resident, drawn to Riverside’s unique layout and the arboretum-like feel of the community, when he received a mailing from the Olmsted Society. “I started to learn more about it and discovered that the group was engaged in things like landscape workdays. It was fascinating to go to lectures and events that the Society hosted, too,” recalls Dixon. Today, as president of the Olmsted Society, Dixon says that the group is working in many ways to keep Olmsted’s legacy alive, like offering programs on a variety of sustainability-focused subjects and encouraging the village to allow people to practice sustainability at home, such as keeping their own bees or hens. “Coming up, we have a lecture on gardens and a symposium on Olmsted designs,” says Dixon. The Olmsted Society has also offered guided tours of Riverside, for those who want to check out the fusion of landscape architectures with the villages many historic buildings. Architecture Abounds Indeed, paralleling the landscape WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 77

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architecture, structural architecture is front and center in Riverside’s attraction. Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Avery Coonley home in Riverside. Recently restored, the privately owned Coonley House was built in 1908 near the Des Plaines River and is an example of Wright’s Prairie School design. Another well-known landscape architect, Jens Jensen, designed the property’s gardens. In addition to the Coonley House and its adjacent cottage, Wright designed the

Parks and Recreation department is based in an office inside the Historic Water Tower. The Parks and Recreation Department oversees the dozens of parks within Riverside, including the Big Ball Park at Delaplaine and Nuttall Roads, the newer Patriots Park at Parkway Road along the border of Riverside and North Riverside and the beautiful Swan Pond, along Burling Road. The Scout Cabin, another piece of history and legacy, is available for special event rental through

“Riverside is really a hidden gem in Cook County. It’s pastoral, and it has an unparalleled small town ambiance that has stood the test of time.”

Coming in january

13th Annual

Menu GUIDE

F.F. Tomek house in Riverside. Other famous architects also lent their talent to abodes in Riverside, including Louis Sullivan and R. Harold Zook. Information on self-guided tours of Riverside’s landmarks is available online and at the Riverside Visitors Center in the Riverside train depot. From time to time, various local groups host tours of historic places and spaces. Past and Pastimes In addition to the Visitors Center, people can find out more about Riverside at another veritable treasure trove — the Riverside Public Library. Set atop a hill overlooking the river, the library’s stone façade, leaded glass windows and detailed architecture inside and out make it much more than a place to check out books or peruse magazines in the scenic, quiet reading room. The library also offers a variety of programs and events for all ages throughout the year. The Riverside Historical Museum is an additional spot for learning more about the history and heritage of Riverside. Fittingly housed adjacent to the Water Tower, the museum is open on Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The museum’s website also includes a printable walking tour map of the village. Maintaining a certain synergy with the village and its offerings, the Riverside

the parks and recreation office. In wintertime, if weather permits, residents and visitors take advantage of the outdoor spaces in Riverside’s parks, including sledding at Swan Pond Park and ice skating in the Big Ball Park. In summer, the private Riverside Swim Club helps keep kids and families entertained. Brookfield Zoo — Partly in Riverside While the Chicago Zoological Society’s Brookfield Zoo may carry the name of a neighboring town, the zoo is actually located within both Brookfield and Riverside. The Seven Seas and Big Cats exhibits, for instance, are on the Riverside side of the zoo. According to Zimmer, the Chew Chew restaurant welcomes many patrons who have spent the day at the zoo. “After walking around, people want to reward themselves with a more mature meal, with a cocktail or bottle of wine and an approachable children’s menu,” he says. “People pour in here like crazy.” Despite the colder weather, this time of year is popular at the Brookfield Zoo, which kicks off its 35th annual Holiday Magic celebration on Dec. 3 (see page 13). The event runs on Saturdays and Sundays on Dec. 3 and 4, 10 and 11 and 17 and 18, then goes nightly from Dec. 26 to Dec. 31. n

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DINING |

REVIEWS

LISTINGS

CHEERS WINE COLUMN

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of One Fifty One

RESTAURANT OPENINGS

RECENTLY OPENED

One Fifty One

oing simple food the hard

”For us, eating well also means doing right by

antique bronze fixtures. The front of the dining

way, by hand making almost

the local economy by sourcing most of our

area features a retractable wall of windows that

everything, is the mantra

ingredients from close to home.”

will open to an outdoor seating area when the

at the new One Fifty One Kitchen & Bar, located not

The executive chef is Ben Sheagren, a native Illinoisan who grew up in farm country

weather is warmer. With indoor seating for 100 plus an

coincidentally at 151 N. York Rd. (331 979-7198)

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additional 50 in the bar area, the restaurant

in downtown Elmhurst.

where he has spent the past 20 years working

offers private dining options, a chef’s tasting

in professional kitchens, including the highly

menu, and brunch and kids’ menus. Hours are

acclaimed Hopleaf.

Sunday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The restaurant seeks to “honor and expand upon Midwestern comfort food traditions with a seasonal approach to the menu,” says Director of Operations Aaron DiMaria, adding,

One Fifty One features a rustic, comfortable setting with reclaimed barnwood finishes and

and Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m., with the bar open an hour later every night. –Chuck Cozette

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By T.R. Witom

Photos courtesy of Chew Chew

GoOd food

Chew Chew Classic but casual American dining in Riverside

uring its two decades of operation, Chew Chew Restaurant in downtown Riverside has built an enviable name for itself, one that goes well beyond longevity. Longtime customers have taken a shine to owner and Executive Chef Scott Zimmer’s consistently thoughtful approach to contemporary American fare. At the same time, Chew Chew has accumulated glowing praise from Open Table, Urban Spoon and Trip Advisor, plus high rankings for its food and service from local print and television food critics. The venue, initially known as Chew Chew Café, outgrew its cramped space near the Metra station in 2006 and moved a block away to its present location, where it can serve about 100 customers on two levels. It’s open daily for dinner only and accepts reservations. Chew Chew is the kind of place where families, date-night couples and business colleagues can all feel comfortable. The atmosphere is casual, with a thematic nod here and there to train travel of a bygone era as depicted in framed posters. Snag one of the booths decorated with original paintings by Chicago artist Bonnie Lecat and pretend you have been

transported to a fancy dining car on a train crossing the country. Diners will encounter a menu offering plentiful choices, from small, shareable plates to diverse salads and rustic flatbreads, as well as many full-size entrées Among the options are steak frites, Maryland-style crab cakes, filet mignon and nutty chicken. Elk and Angus beef burgers are part of the sandwich lineup. Tacos are popular and come with a variety of fillings such as chicken mole, brisket and Lake Superior whitefish. A handful of pasta dishes, including Bolognese and primavera, round out the menu. Some courses can be prepared gluten-free. A recent dinner began with a glass of Silver Ridge Chardonnay, a refreshing wine from Napa, CA. The Chew Chew bar stocks a number of medium- and premium-priced vintages. It serves beer and signature cocktails, too. The meal continued with a flavorful shared grilled calamari salad comprised of frisee and bib lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta and

Shrimp and Octopus Salad

kalamata olives. Day Boat Scallops ($26, and worth the splurge) featured five seared jumbo scallops nestled in a wild mushroom risotto with a cherry tomato-basil relish and pepper coulis accent. Another nicely executed entrée enjoyed by a dining partner was trout piccata. The butterflied rainbow trout was prepared with lemon-caper butter, white wine and hazelnuts and served with herbed wild rice and shreds of carrots and yellow and green summer squash. Food is served by a vigilant and enthusiastic wait staff, one tuned in to what the kitchen has to offer. Desserts are a movable feast, from molten chocolate cake to vanilla bean creme brulée. A personal recommendation: try a scoop of the decadent whiskey cream gelato. n

QUICK FACTS

Chew Chew/

33 E. Burlington Rd., Riverside 708 447-8781 www.theChewChew.com

Recommended Dishes:

Cost:

Hours:

Extras:

Grilled calamari salad,

Appetizers, $8 to $12;

Mon-Sat 4-9 p.m.;

Reservations.

scallops and mushroom

entrées, $11 to $28

Sun 4-8 p.m.

Full bar. Free Wi-Fi.

risotto, trout piccata

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DIning Recently Opened

The Craftsman by Two Brothers Three levels of dining and imbibing in Naperville

he Craftsman by Two

“This is another step in our

Brothers, newly minted

growth and evolution as a

at 16 W. Jefferson Ave. in

company. While we will be

Naperville (630 615-7100),

selling Two Brothers beer at

occupies three floors and

The Craftsman, we will not

presents three dining and

have on-site brewing. It is

imbibing options. The venue

an entirely new concept

homemade gnocchi, a

includes Market Café on the

focused on fresh, locally

rotating charcuterie board

main floor, Modern Tavern

sourced ingredients.”

and aged in-house steaks

— a locally sourced farm-

Market Café, which

and sustainable seafood.

to-table restaurant — on

seats 50, offers a coffee

The top floor lounge and

the second and, on the

bar featuring small-batch

rooftop deck accommodates

third level, a bar featuring

roasted Two Brothers coffee,

about 80.

handmade cocktails.

a juice and smoothie bar,

Market Café opens daily at

“With farm-to-table

pastries and other breakfast

7 a.m.; closing varies between

food and craft beverages

options plus an artisan deli

10 and 11 p.m.

including coffee, tea and

specializing in custom-made

Modern Tavern’s hours are

cocktails, The Craftsman

sandwiches and salads.

Monday-Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m.;

shows we are more than a

Upscale dining is the focus

Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday,

beer company,” says Jason

at the 76-seat Modern Tavern

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 10

Ebel, co-founder of Two

with a frequently updated

p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brothers Brewing Company.

menu with such dishes as

and 5 to 9 p.m. – T.R. Witom

Reservations: Recommended.

Listings Following is a sampling of some of the best dining destinations in the western suburbs, including reader favorites, advertisers and a cross-section of just plain good places to grab a bite. Bon appétit! n Central DuPage n Nw DuPage & Upper Fox Valley n Sw DuPage & lower fox valley n Se Dupage & SW Cook n Ne DuPage & nw cook n Adelle’s: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.

New twists on old American favorites served by seasoned professionals in a stylish ambiance. Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: White fish. Entrée prices: $18-$34. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, wine room, carry-out, live jazz Th at 7 pm, live music on select other nights, lounge, fireplaces. T-Th 4:30-8:30, F-Sat 4:30-9:30, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Recommended. n Allgauer’s: 3003 Corporate West Dr, Lisle;

in the Hilton Lisle/Naperville. 630 245-7650. Classic American fare with an eclectic twist in a contemporary environment. Specializes in locally sourced, dry aged steaks, fresh seafood and chops. Capacity:196 at 44 tables. Yrs in bus: 35. Chef’s Choice: Potato-crusted halibut. Entrée prices: $25- $44; lunch menu $9-$18. Extras: Bar, banquets, family friendly, Sunday brunch, breakfast buffet Mon-Sun, lunch buffet M-F, seafood buffet on Friday. Breakfast M-F 6:30-11 am, Sat 7-11 am, Sun 7-9:30 am; Lunch M-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Sun 4-10, F seafood & prime rib buffet 5:30-8:30, Sun brunch 10:30-2:30.

n Anyway’s Chicago Restaurant & Pub 5 E Roosevelt Rd, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 932-9323. Classic neighborhood restaurant and pub serving American cuisine. Capacity: 200 at 45 tables. Yrs in bus: 20. Chef’s Choice: Izzy’s jambalaya pasta and Certified Angus burgers. Entrée prices: $7-$15. Extras: Bar, carry-out, banquets, outdoor dining, kids’ menu, daily specials. M-Th 11:30 am1 am, F-Sat 11:30 am-2 am, Sun noon-1 am. Reservations: Yes, for 10 or more. Additional location at 304 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, 630 351-8870. n Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2752 Showplace Dr, Naperville. 630 428-8500. Classic and contemporary authentic Italian dining in a casual, friendly setting. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Black fettuccine with lobster & wild mushrooms. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Exhibition kitchen, bar, wine list, children’s menu, gluten-free menu, carry-out, catering, private parties, family friendly. M-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 20560 N Rand Rd, Deer Park, 847 438-1850. n Carlucci: 1801 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove. 630 512-0990. Rustic Italian restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Linguini bobonato. Entrée prices: $12-$33. Extras: Carry-out, private dining, outdoor dining, bar open later, live entertainment. Lunch M-F 11:30-3:30; Dinner M-Th 3:30-9:30, F 3:30-10:30, Sat 4:30-10:30, Sun 4:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Catch Thirty-Five: 35 S Washington St, Naperville. 630 717-3500. A deep and interesting variety of flavorful seafood and premium steaks in an uptown atmosphere. Capacity: 192. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Chilean sea bass. Entrée prices: $16-$50. Extras: Bar, private parties, family friendly, outdoor dining, valet parking T-Sat. Lunch M-Sat

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Photos courtesy of Chez Moi Café

GoOd food

By T.R. Witom

Chez Moi Café French breakfast and lunch fare in Geneva

eneva, home to such wellregarded spots as Atwater’s, Patten House and Barrel + Rye, can safely be called a restaurant magnet, one that draws the dining crowd from far beyond its borders. Another local establishment, Frenchinspired Chez Moi Café, has made inroads as a go-to place for appealing, down-to-earth breakfasts and lunches. At its helm is chef-owner Beth Cull, who founded the understated 50-seat eatery nearly four years ago. Chez Moi is a comfortable venue for lingering with friends — exposed brickwork, wood accents and a striking tin ceiling add to the charm. The modestly priced menu has diners queuing for individual egg ramekins with herbed sausage and sautéed onions in a light cream sauce. Crepes are popular at breakfast, as are a variety of salads, sandwiches and homemade soups at lunch. A big draw are the sweet or savory croissants freshly-made from dough imported from France. “Our French guests say ‘It’s like a taste of home,’” says Cull. A recent lunch featured a duck confitfilled galette. The large buckwheat crepe was stuffed with duck meat, smoked mozzarella and arugula in a balsamic glaze. A dab of créme fraîche topping

completed this delicious and filling entrée. Other galettes were filled with ham, egg and gruyere; chicken, egg and spinach; and sausage, egg, apples, arugula and smoked Soup Plate with Tomato Soup mozzarella. of salads, omelets and quiches. The place was practically at capacity, predominantly women seated in groups Coffee, roasted at Two Brothers in of two or four. It took nearly half an hour Warrenville, makes an enjoyable aromatic to be served our meals, but the wait was brew. Chez Moi — which translates as worth it. “My Place” — also offers a small, diverse A tablemate relished Chez Moi’s beer and wine list. quiche of the day starring salmon and Sweet crepes, made in-house, are cheese. It was served piping hot in an a reliable dessert. But don’t neglect the individual baker, which made an contents of the ever-changing baked attractive presentation. goods, from apple tart to a flourless chocolate confection. You won’t go Both entrées came plated with a colorful wrong trying tart and tasty lemon ricotta salad that combined curly leafed lettuce, cookies and a serving of sponge-like red onion, diced carrots, cherry tomatoes, chocolate cake with chocolate sauce, chopped green beans and cucumber. a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh Numbered among the breakfast fruit garnish. specials were french toast, quinoa oatmeal with cashews, dried apricots, fresh berries Carryout and catering are offered and a side of Greek yogurt. Some lunch and occasionally special evening classes options included steak frites, lavenderare conducted for home cooks. honey chicken, Croque Monsieur — a The compact parking lot fills during sandwich with grilled ham and gruyere peak business hours, so be prepared to in a bechamel sauce — plus a selection look for a spot on the street if necessary. n

QUICK FACTS

Chez Moi Café/

415 W. State St., Geneva 331 248-0654 www.chezmoigeneva.com

Recommended Dishes:

Cost:

and entrées, $9 to $16.

Extras:

Duck galette, quiche

Breakfast dishes, $6 to

Hours:

Reservations, parking.

of the day, chocolate

$10; galettes, $10 to $12;

Mon-Sat 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.,

free Wi-Fi, catering,

cake, French croissants

Lunch sandwiches

closed Sundays

children’s menu.

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DINING 11:30-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.  CITYGATE GRILLE: 2020 Calamos Ct, Naperville. 630 718-1010. Fine dining serving contemporary American fare in a steakhouse atmosphere. Capacity: 220. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Seared Diver Scallops and Steak Risotto. Entrée prices: $18-$39, Avg: $25. Extras: Live music F-Sat, private parties, catering, kids’ menu. M-Th 11:30-9, F 11:30-10, Sat 5-10 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes.  DAVANTI ENOTECA: 800 W Hillgrove Ave, Western

Springs. 708 783-1060. Simple Italian fare served in a rustic wine bar setting. Capacity: 130 plus 30 on a seasonal patio. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Focaccia di Recco, Burratta Salad and Davante Burger. Entrée prices: $11-$24. Extras: Brunch Sat 11-2 and Sun 10-2, full bar, daily specials, Bloody Mary bar, M-F rotating sandwich menu. M-T 11:30-9, W-Th 11:30-9:30, F 11:30-10, Sat 11-10, Sun 10-9 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes.

MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING RESERVATIONS NOW!

 DELL RHEA CHICKEN BASKET: 645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried chicken in a 1940s-style Route 66 roadhouse featuring video gaming. Capacity: 225 at 40 tables. Yrs in bus: 70. Chef’s Choice: 50/50 burger and breakfast burger. Entrée prices: $10-$20, Avg: $13. Extras: Carry-out, bar, catering, over 50 beers. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes.  EMILIO’S TAPAS BAR: 4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside. 708 547-7177. Spanish tapas in an authentic countryside atmosphere. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 28. Chef’s Choice: Paella and Datiles Con Bacon. Entrée prices: $6-$16 per person. Extras: flowered patio, online reservations, carry-out, bar, family friendly, “Tapeo” $1.95 bites menu 4:30-6:30 M-Fri, GrubHub and Yelp Eat 24, live entertainment Fridays, full bar, catering. M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.  GIA MIA: 106 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 480-2480.

Old-world authentic Neapolitan pizza in a rustic restaurant. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 1.5. Chef’s Choice: Hand-crafted meatballs. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Newly renovated space, full bar, TVs, carry-out, large wine selection, fresh ingredients from local sources, mobile brick-oven. M 4-9, T-Th 11-2 and 4-10, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: No, but call-ahead seating available. Additional location at 13 N Third St. Geneva, 630 405-5544.

Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs 483 Spring Road

 HARRY CARAY’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE

70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3400. Classic Italian steakhouse in a sportsthemed atmosphere. Capacity: 550. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Prime steaks, chops and Italian Specialties. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Outdoor dining, bar, sports memorabilia, carry-out, private events. Lunch M-Sun 11-5 (bar only); Dinner M-Sat 5-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 10233 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, 847 699-1200.

www.robertosristorante.com

•

Elmhurst

630.279.8486

Mon - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm • Fri 11 am - midnight • Sat 4 pm - midnight • Sun 2 - 10 pm

 HILLGROVE TAP: 800 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 290-0055. Traditional bar fare with a creative twist served up in a family friendly neighborhood sports bar. Capacity: 115, plus 50 on a seasonal patio. Mths in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Nacho Bites or Bourbon glazed pork chop. Entrée prices: $12-$19. Extras: TVs, 24 craft beers on tap, selection of bourbons and whiskeys, carry-out, full bar, happy hour, outdoor seating, catering. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun 11-10 pm. Reservations: Accepted.  HOLY MACKEREL!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3444. Fresh interpretations on fish house classics in a vintage décor. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Kasu marinated sea bass. Entree prices: $9-$46. Extras: Private parties, bar, carry-out. Breakfast M-Sat 6-11, Sun 6 am-noon; Lunch M-Sat 11-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-9. Reservations: Yes.

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION (REQUIRED BY 39 USC 3685) 1. Publication title: West Suburban Living 2. Publication number: 1532-6705 3. Filing date: 9/30/16 4. Issue frequency: 10x a Year; Jan, Feb, March, April, May, June, July, Sept, Oct, Nov 5. Number of issues published annually: 10 6. Annual subscription rate: $15 7. Known office of publication: 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 8. General business office of publication: Same as above 9. Publisher: Chuck Cozette 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 Editor: Same as above Managing editor: Rachel Switall 10. Owner: C2 Publishing, Inc., 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None 12. Tax status: Has not changed during preceding 12 months 13. Publication title: West Suburban Living 14. Issue date for circulation data below: Oct 2016 15. Extent and Average no. of No. of copies nature of copies each issue of single issue circulation during preceding published nearest to filing date 12 months A. Total no. of copies (net 25,577 25,492 press run) B. Paid and/or requested circulation 1. Paid/requested outside-county 11,522 11,565 mail subscriptions 2. Paid in-county — — subscriptions 3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other non-USPS 1080 1064 distribution 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS C. Total paid and/or requested circulation

105

167

12,707

12,796

D. Free distribution by mail 1. Outside-county 2. In-county 3. Other classes mailed through the USPS 4. Free distribution outside the mail E. Total free distribution F. Total distribution G. Copies not distributed

12,324

12,241

—

12,394

12,286

25,101

25,082

476

410

25,577 H. Total I. Percent paid and/or requested circulation 51%

25,492 51%

I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. –Chuck Cozette, Publisher

cheers

By Buzz Brandt

Cold Weather Reds Cabernet Franc, Nebbiolo and Tannat are all good options

he dark days of winter signal the time for “big” reds — elegant and rich, layered with complex cascades of dense dark fruit tethered to supple tannins and hints of spice and oak. A muscular, well-structured Napa Cabernet springs to mind, or perhaps an inky-purple Syrah/Shiraz, an exuberant, well-balanced Zinfandel, or a plump, robust Mendozan Malbec. But there are other, lesser-known varietals that have plenty of backbone to chase away the sub-zero chills and pair up with the hearty soups, stews, and casseroles of the season. Here are three to consider! Cabernet Franc One of the genetic parents of Cabernet Sauvignon, the Cabernet Franc grape produces wines that exhibit a bit less body, tannin, and acidity than its more famous offspring, but shares the same intense, rich profile, with a seductive peppery perfume laced with aromas of raspberries, currants, violets, green pepper, and even graphite.

Nebbiolo Nebbiolo is the world-class star of Italy’s Piedmont wine-growing region, the grape responsible for the legendary Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Despite their delicate aromas and translucency, Nebbiolo wines are powerfully bold and full-bodied, girded with ample acidity and fiercely gripping tannins that can only be tamed with aging. Nebbiolo is known for its characteristic bouquet of tar and roses, and its lush palate offers up flavors of blackberries, raspberries, plums, and cherries with

hints of baking spices, licorice, and red clay. Tannat Aggressively tannic and purple-black in the glass, Tannat has its origins in the rugged Madiran region of southwestern France. It was 19th century Basque settlers who brought Tannat vine cuttings to Uruguay, where the grapes flourished. In this country, Tannat is grown principally in California. Madiran Tannats are usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc to soften the severity of the tannins. n

Expert wine recommendations • Christina Anderson-HelleR Tasting Devine (Wheaton) 2-012 Lynfred Petite Sirah Reserve $35, sourced from California vineyards, this opaque, deep purple Petite Sirah showcases a generous bouquet of blueberries, currants, sage, and cedar. The full-bodied palate is vibrant with rich, firm tannins, black and blue fruit. -2012 Lynfred Tannat $25, an impressively tannic

wine, balanced by juicy red raspberries, oak, and spices, all wreathed in enticing aromas of plums, smoke, and freshly-cracked nuts. • Bruce Jaroski Malloy’s Finest (Naperville) -2013 Hill Family Estate “The Barrel Blend” $25, an elegant nose of red fruit and spices ushers in this Merlot-based blend, leading to a seductive palate of raspberries, black cherries, plums, and

blueberries. This is a complex wine, dry, full-bodied, and voluptuous. -2013 Green and Red “Chiles Canyon Vineyards” Zinfandel $25, sourced from three Napa Valley mountain vineyards, this zesty Zin bursts with saturated flavors of black cherries and raspberries with notes of cocoa, vanilla, and spice. The tannins are smooth and the acidity is nicely integrated.

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Recently Opened

FourteenSixteen Creative American cuisine in La Grange

ourteenSixteen, which

Grant Slauterbeck, head

recently opened at 14 W.

chef and a co-owner.

Calendar Ave. in La Grange

Among Slauterbeck’s most

(708 469-7896), aims to

popular dishes are the

brighten the town’s dining

tempura-battered Clock

scene with its contemporary

Shadow cheese curd

American menu and eclectic

appetizer served with a

flair, says Dave Ambroz,

creamy almond-dill dipping

general manager.

sauce; a crab-crusted

“Our full-service bar

walleye entrée; and the

on the main floor, and plans

features a beverage selection

Mason Jar salad.

call for eventually converting

that’s unlike the ‘same-old,

The decor captures

the 44-seat seasonal rooftop

same-old’ products you often

what Ambroz calls a “rustic

patio to accommodate

see,” Ambroz says. “Selections

industrial build-out” feel.

customers year-round.

start a notch above what

FourteenSixteen occupies

FourteenSixteen is open

other bars offer and include

a renovated 133-year-old

Monday through Thursday

eight craft beers on tap, as

building that uses a lot of

from 4 to 10 p.m.; Friday 4 to

well as four wines and two

reclaimed wood and shows

11 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to

cocktails both also on draft.”

off original brick.

11 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.

Running the kitchen is

The restaurant seats 102

to 3 p.m.

n Maya Del Sol: 144 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park. 708 358-9800. Casual, yet upscale New World Latin dining. Capacity: 175, 130 outdoors. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Carne asada. Entrée prices: $14-$36. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, live entertainment, gluten and dairy free options, catering, carry-out, private dining. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9, Sun brunch 9-2. Reservations: Yes.

–T.R. Witom

n Sullivan’s Steakhouse: 244 S Main St, Naperville.

630 305-0230. Steak, chops and seafood in a 1940s Chicago-style décor. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 18. Chef’s Choice: Seafood and steak. Entrée prices: $30-$60. Extras: Bar, live entertainment, valet parking. Lunch M-F 11:30-4:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4:30-11, Sun 4:30-10. Reservations: Recommended. n Sushi House: 830 E Ogden Ave, Westmont.

n Parkers’ Restaurant & BAr: 1000 31st St,

Downers Grove. 630 960-5700. Casually elegant restaurant serving a contemporary American menu. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 15. Chef’s Choice: Cedar-planked halibut. and charcoal-grilled center cut pork chop. Entrée prices: $14-$65, Avg: $32. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private dining, live music in lounge W-Sat. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-8:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Patten House Restaurant & Bar

124 S Second St, Geneva. 630 492-5040. A newly renovated historic landmark featuring a unique menu with a Cajun flair. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: BBQ Pork Sandwich and Honey Sriracha Glazed Brussel Sprouts. Entrée prices: $18-$30. Extras: Full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 10-10. Reservations: Yes. n Patio Restaurant: 7440 S Kingery Hwy (Rt 83), Darien. 630 920-0211. Casual dining featuring American food and specializing in BBQ ribs. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 27. Chef’s Choice: BBQ ribs. Entrée prices: $7-$22. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, drive-up. M-Th 10:30-10, F-Sat 10:30-11 pm, Sun 10:30-9:30. Reservations: No. Additional locations at 4400 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora. 630 820-8800; 151 S Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, 630 226-9696; and 2780 S Highland Ave, Lombard, 630 627-2600. n Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria: 483 Spring

Rd, Elmhurst. 630 279-8486. Italian cuisine served in a romantic, neighborhood setting accented by white tablecloths. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 54. Chef’s Choice: Fish entrées. Entrée prices: $14-$44. Extras: Carry-out, bar, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, banquets. M-Th 11-11, F 11-midnight, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-10. Reservations: Yes.

630 920-8948. Sushi, sashimi and other Japanese fare. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Cracker Roll. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Carry-out, catering, delivery, private parties, kid’s menu, sushi bar, beer & wine. M-F 11:30-10, Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 950 Warren St, Downers Grove, 630 968-0088; 1107 Lake St, Oak Park, 708 660-8899; and 281 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630 221-8986. n Suzette’s: 211 W Front St, Wheaton. 630 462-0898.

Crêperie, pâtisserie, boulangerie, French country bistro and wine bar in a casual setting. Capacity: 88. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Beef bourguignon crêpe and Suzette’s benedict. Entrée prices: $13-$40. Extras: Wine bar, bakery, carry-out, full bar, outdoor dining, private parties, boutique weddings, occasional live music. Pâtisserie open at 7 am, M-Sat, Sun brunch 11-2, afternoon tea T-Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm. Breakfast T-Sat 7-11 am, Sun 8-11 am; Lunch T-Sat 11-4; Dinner T-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended.. n Vie: 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-2082.

Seasonal, contemporary American à la carte menu with European influences in an elegant atmosphere. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi. Entrée prices: $26-46. Extras: Bar, new lounge space with exclusive menu, gluten-free and vegetarian options, private parties, monthly Sunday suppers. M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10. Reservations: Yes. n YORK TAVREN: 3702 York Rd, Oak Brook. 630 323-5090. The oldest, continuously operating restaurant in DuPage County, restored and updated in 2006, serving burgers and American fare. Capacity: 60. Yrs in bus: 172. Chef’s Choice: Burgers. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Carry-out, bar. M-F 11-1 am, Sat 11-2 am, Sun noon-10. Reservations: No.

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Charitable Events of Note

Photos courtesy of Jeff Lintz Photography

SCENE&SEEN

Operation Support Our Troops was the focus at the recent 3rd Annual Red White and Blues fundraising event, held at the PIRCH facility in Oakbrook Center. An estimated 275 people attended and $85,000 was raised. Operation Support Our Troops (OSOT) America is located in Naperville and supports America’s military community through programs for military families. Among those in attendance were (clockwise from top left; left to right) Joe Barrett of Hinsdale, Pete and Sheryl Lemcke of McHenry, and Mike Kelly of Bloomingdale; Allen J. Lynch, Medal of Honor recipient of Gurnee, and Leon Magnum, director of the Allen J Lynch Foundation & Veteran Exchange of Schaumburg; “Killer” Ray Allison, C.C. Copeland and Dr. Dan Ivankovich of the Chicago Blues All-Stars; Maggie and Eric Umsted of Hinsdale; troops offering their thanks; Lemcke, senior director of market development of PIRCH, Michelle Wysoglad and Sean Devine of Geneva, and Betty Krupp, VP of OSOT-America of Lisle; and event Co-Chairs Chris and Dave Pequet of Hinsdale, former Chicago Bear Gary Fencik of Chicago, and Deborah Rickert, president and founder of OSOT-America of Naperville.

The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) Foundation raised $320,000 at its 12th Annual Autumn Affair Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, which drew 300 attendees. Among the guests were (photo at left, left to right); Gina Sharp of Naperville, president & CEO, Linden Oaks Behavioral Health; Mary Lou Mastro, Palos Park, president & CEO, Elmhurst Hospital; Eric Ferguson of Hinsdale, Chicago radio personality and Autumn Affair auctioneer; and Nancy Nyberg of Naperville. Also enjoying the event were (bottom photos, left to right) Ken Wegner, chairman, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, and Julia Wegner of Elmhurst; John and Kathy Caluwaert of Oak Brook; Dr. Matt Pisano and Dr. Alicia

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S D e F C a H a t

Photos courtesy of Glenn Kaupert Photography

Salazar of Elmhurst; Dr. Marco Martinez and Dr. Susan Martinez of River Forest; Dr. Jennifer Owens and John Plumpe of Hinsdale; Dr. Michelle Meziere, emergency medicine physician at Elmhurst Hospital, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation Board Trustee and Autumn Affair committee chair, and son Sam Chioda, both of Hinsdale; John and Caron Lizzadro of Oak Brook; (photos at right, left to right) Lori Janevicius and Dr. Ray Janevicius, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation board trustee of Oak Brook; and Dr. David Morrissey and Christina Morrissey of Hinsdale. Proceeds from the evening will be used to support Elmhurst Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavioral health services.

La Grange; (top center) Adrian Peterson, formerly of the Chicago Bears, who signed a Chicago Draft Day football for Louise Starmann of Burr Ridge; and (top right, left to right) Kim Santoro of Plainfield, Dennis Jones, chairman & CEO of Hinsdale Bank & Trust, and Sarah Booth of Darien. Also enjoying the evening were (above, left to right) Val and Dave Medina with Mark Ptacek, senior VP of Heartland Bank & Trust, and Patty Ptacek, all of Western Springs; and (above left, left to right) Sue Kaszynski of Melrose Park, DeeDee and Kevin Goggin (FNBC) of La Grange, and Trudi Goggin of Melrose Park.

Photos courtesy of Edward-Elmhurst Health

Photos courtesy of Jeff Lintz Photography

Dressed in sports attire representing their favorite sports team, more than 260 people attended the 15th Annual Sports Ball Benefit Gala in support of Aging Care Connections at Pinstripes in Oak Brook. The sports-themed gala raised over $90,000 for the La Grange-based nonprofit organization that serves 38 suburban communities and provides over 8,000 older adults and their families with help from benefits assistance to comprehensive care coordination. Pictured are (top left) Nick Pann, Sports Ball committee chair for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gala, and Carolyn Pann of

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10/27/16 12:09 PM

Last Word

By Michele Weldon

Finding Breathing Space There can be a fine line between living a full life and being so busy you can’t enjoy it

hen I was in college in the 1970s, one of my favorite rock stars was Jackson Browne, and not just because he was really cute on his album covers and in concert. He played this one song we would sing along to on the car radio, Running On Empty, that just seemed to embody the aimless angst we all felt no matter what. So many years later, the opposite sentiment of that song feels true for me — I feel like I am running on full most all the time. I feel as if I have little spare breathing room, so many obligations and activities crammed together and no empty time — all of it for work that I love and personal activities I find meaningful. It’s just that there is too much of a good thing. Who complains about a full life? When your life feels too full. It’s the same as when you eat just a little too much. Even if it is the most delicious meal you ever tasted, you can move from feeling warm and satisfied to feeling stuffed and uncomfortable. That’s it, my life at times feels stuffed. And the funny part is, I thought that was the ultimate goal. You want to live a full life, everyone tells us, no one wants to contemplate emptiness. You work hard to get to the point where you are in demand, and people want you to travel and produce work you love. It says so right there on your résumé. I worked hard to get to this point professionally, and yes, it’s gratifying. Now that my sons are all gone from the house, working and living on their own, I swapped all that mom time for work time. And I love what I do, all of it. The business travel, the deadlines, the

“By the time I get to the end of the day and the year, I am filled up. I can’t say or do one more thing.”

chances to meet fascinating people engaged deeply in their work — these make me feel buoyant and worthwhile. It’s just that while I was busy filling up with everything I want to do that makes me happy in my career, I missed the breathing room. Oops. Looking at the calendar for the holiday season, I am sure even more events will populate my evenings and weekends. I am lucky and grateful to be invited to parties, cookie exchanges, celebrations and salutes to the season. What a gift to catch up with old and new friends, hear their stories and share some laughs. I am extraordinarily pleased for the friendships, the blue cheese and asparagus rolls, the butter cookies and the wine on ice. But here’s my confession for this time of year. Sometimes I just want to get into bed right after dinner and read a magazine or a new book. Say nothing. Talk to no one. Not even watch Dancing With The Stars. I guess I have finally become the crabby neighbor who won’t answer the phone or the door. The one who will not pick up her cell phone after a certain hour, respond to a text, an e-mail or a Facebook message. I want to unplug, turn off, be unreachable. You can call it anti-social. I prefer to call it temporary hibernation. By the time I get to the end of the day and the year, I am filled up. I can’t say or do one more thing. You may feel the same way — particularly at this raucous and high energy time of

year. Sometimes I want my days and my evenings to be a little more empty. Perhaps empty is not the right word exactly, maybe calm. Or serene. I’m looking for the white noise between the notes, the white space between the text in the margins. I remember growing up, my mother used to say to the six of us in the late evening if we were running around or fighting or just making a lot of noise, “Go to bed, I’m tired.” Her comment made absolutely no sense to me. Why would I go to bed if she was tired? I wasn’t. I will go to bed when I am tired, thank you. But I understand now completely. She was full with all she had done that day and knew she needed to just turn in and turn off. She didn’t want to do one more task, see, hear or correct any of us one more time. We reach a point when we want no more anything. A lot more nothing. There are tools and strategies to building in more relaxation in your life, I know. I could fill the blank space with meditation practices, yoga classes, scheduled quiet contemplation. But those are more doings I need to put on the calendar. Right about now I want to look on the calendar this time of year and see nothing but nothing. It may be against the holiday spirit, but I want to fill my spare time with nothingness. I want to take a deep breath, smile and fill it with empty. n

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