Make It Better April Digital Edition

april 2012

tips from party pros 8 power foods nate berkus designers happenin’ highland park

digital edition

Orthopedic Institute

Keep pace with the speed of life Don’t let bone and joint pain keep you from what you love.

Take the first step. Advances in surgical and non-surgical treatments mean our team has options to get you moving. You don’t need to wait to feel better. If you have bone or joint pain call or visit us online today.

Stay on top of your health with our Community Healthbeat series.

Click here to see a list of this month’s classes u 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622) or advocatehealth.com/lgh

contents volume 3, issue 6

Life celebrations u

The newish house u

april 2012

One dress, three looks u

By Julie Chernoff, Laura Hine, Susan B. Noyes, Kristina Tober and Kim Treger

By Tate Gunnerson

Marriage advice for newlyweds (and the not-so-newly wed) u

8 Power foods to eat for health and energy u

he Pump Room, T reborn u

By Christy Coughlin

By Julie Chernoff

By Kathryn Achenbach

By Marjie Killeen

family

home

Tips from top party pros u 9

By Jennifer Dunham Luby 0-second mom tips u 3

By Demika Caldwell, Marci Fair and Jan Mostrom

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Tips to make a room personal yet 5 stylish u

By Laura Hine

a better you appenin’ Highland Park u H

By Samantha Kiersey

Get beautiful for your big day u

By Jennifer Dunham Luby Get the most bang for your bridal buck u

By Meghan Streit

dining and entertainment Caterers make the event u

By Julie Chernoff Starting over, yet again u

By Liz Logan

in every issue co-founder’s letter u make it better column u you said it u fresh u tick tock u recommended events u events listing u theater guide u book list u music by val u give time, give support, give things u closing thoughts u

make a difference Better makers and their impact u Gimme shelter: Heather’s House u

By Laura Tiebert

mission statement

The mission of Make It Better Media is to be the most-trusted, easiest-to-use community resource and print magazine that helps you make your life, and the lives of others, better.

Carrying forward the best of magazine

editorial policy Pages

with this designation are sponsored content and are paid for by the advertiser cover Photo by Olivia Leigh Photographie. february C o n t r i bu t o r s We asked our writers what “their” wedding song was and for those who haven’t made it down the aisle yet, what they hope that song will be.

Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 11 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 1150 Wilmette Ave., Suite J, Wilmette, IL 60091-2642. Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2012 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2012 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

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online

Our better half is online:

join the conversation!

Go to our Facebook page if you have nominations or submissions for any of the following: What is your favorite thing to order at a local restaurant?

Tell us the best dish to order and why. online this month: Don’t miss these articles online this month: 2012 North Shore Church Rummage Sale – shop and support great local organizations makeitbetter.net/ns-rummage 2012 garden walks and housewalks – mark your calendars now for the upcoming season makeitbetter.net/ gardenwalk

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Tell us what “luxury” means to you.

Is it things, experiences, places, time, people? We’re interested in all the ways you define luxury.

Have any “Best Of” categories you’d like us to consider?

We’re looking for your ideas.

facebook facebook.com/ makeitbetter.net twitter twitter.com/ makeitbetterns email susan@ makeitbetter.net

online

iPad edi-

Make It Better iPad Edition We’ve gone high tech! If you have an iPad, download our FREE app, and you can read Make It Better on your iPad before the magazine hits your mailbox. We’ve loaded the app edition with extra features—videos, click to buy, and extra photo galleries. makeitbetter.net/ipad You can find the following features in our iPad edition each month: • Family articles • Dining guides • Click-to-buy fashion • Relationship advice • Home photo galleries • Book guides • Movie recommendations

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online

the hot list These are the writers who had the hottest online articles last month. Click and see why.

1. Kim Treger interviewed local teacher and “Survivor” contestant Alicia Rosa about her experience on the reality TV show. Check out Kim’s article in this issue on page 43, “Celebrating the Ages” about milestone birthdays. Missed her Survivor article? Check out makeitbetter.net/entertainment 2. “8 Power Foods to Eat for Health and Energy” was so popular on the web, we published it on page 92.

Christy Coughlin keeps us fit and healthy with regular articles that you can find at makeitbetter.net/better-you 3. Our former intern, Lindsay Roseman, pitched us an article about

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“Pinterest” just as that website was really taking off. To learn how and why you should be on this hot website, read her article at makeitbetter.net/pinterest 4. Kristina Tober writes “Tricks of the Trade” for us and found that many of us would love to put our dining room to better use.

Read how you can make this little-used room a multi-purpose space at makeitbetter. net/at-home 5. Kat Achenbach is our fashion editor and her most popular article last month was “Dress 10 Pounds Thinner.”

Find tips and examples of great outfits to make you look svelte and lean (no spanx required). makeitbetter.net/better-you

online

what’s hot this month On the better list Resources for life in the northern suburbs, recommended

by Make It Better makeitbetter.net/the-better-list Chow! Bella “Chow! Bella recently catered our meeting & the food was really tasty and enjoyed by everyone. Great presentation and we all recommend the spinach quiche. We even had to increase the order less than 24 hours before and they did not miss a beat.

I will definitely use them again.”

Classic Kids “I never tire of looking at their photos of my children. They somehow capture their true essence, like no other, and the photos bring a smile to my face everyday. They also give back to the community by donating early and often to local schools.”

High Tea with Gerri “Gerri is wonderful! She catered a tea party in my home and my guests and I could not have been more delighted. Tea is served from an elegant silver tea service in deli

cate china cups. Sandwiches, cakes and cookies are yummy and beautifully presented. The entire service is turnkey. From linen napkins to a gracious service staff, every detail is A+. A joyful experience!”

Deerpath Inn “Romantic, quiet, old world, classic cuisine, excellent service, exquisite food. Best dover sole and bread pudding in Chicagoland. Best meal I’ve had in several years on the North Shore. No hyperbole.”

West End Florist “I have been purchasing all my gardening needs from West End Florist and Gardening Center for 20 years. They have always had great advice, stock and variety. I cannot recommend a better garden center or florist.”

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founder’s letter

what are you doing for your big 5-0?

By Mindy Fauntleroy

W

hen Make It Better’s Editor in Chief asked me to write about my 50th birthday for our life celebrations issue, I thought it would be easy. Up until now, I hadn’t given much thought to what it meant to reach this milestone. In general, I don’t have a big issue with getting older (I swear!). The thought of turning 50 isn’t that scary

to me, although I’ll admit that the term “middle aged” freaks me out a bit.

So, objectively, I guess the big “5-0” means that the bottom half of the hourglass now has more sand in it than the top does. That knowledge is a bit hard to swallow, but I feel like the odds are pretty good that I can make it at least another 40 years if I’ve made it this far. Heck, I was raised in

Lives Made Better: 68,730 | $$ Raised for not-for-profits: $1,791,173

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founder’s letter

the age of no sunscreen and no seat belts; when a Velveeta and bologna sandwich was considered a healthy snack.

I can’t help but smile when I think of how I got to this point in my life. I was raised by a loving family in sunny Miami, had a fun and challenging career in NYC, and am currently busy and professionally fulfilled in my role here at Make It Better. I’m married to the love of my life, and have four amazing children who certainly keep me on my toes.

I’ve had the opportunity to live in Australia, and have been fortunate enough to do lots of exciting travel. I’ve made a noticeable dent in my proverbial “bucket list,” including a number of deathdefying experiences. My life feels crazed a lot of the time these days, with meals

to cook, carpools to drive, games to drive to and watch, lunches to pack, laundry to wash, work to do, and kids to ground occasionally. However, it’s all temporary chaos in a very happy life, and I try to pause for a minute or two every day to be grateful for what I have.

In addition to starting a new decade, this year I’ll be launching my oldest child off to college in six short months.

These years are going by all too fast. So, rather than beefing up my bucket list on my 50th (no diving with sharks or leaping out of planes for me), I’ve make a different type of list, a “CHOOSE-todo List,” and it includes: • Make the time I spend with my kids count more.

Even carpool time is a gift I shouldn’t ignore. makeitbetter.net

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founder’s letter

• Set aside special time with my husband and girlfriends. They help keep me sane and centered when I’m being pulled in 100 different directions.

• Devote more time to myself, whether it’s reading a good book or getting the latest anti-aging facial. After all, if mom isn’t happy, no one’s happy!

• Stretch beyond my comfort zone in personal and professional areas. I’ll take some risks, make some mistakes and chase some dreams.

Reaching 50 is more of a subtle mindset shift rather than a major milestone. It’s being conscious that time is ever more valuable and elusive, and making every day count through my choices. There’s a lot in our daily lives that is out of our control, so I want to try 12

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harder to shape the moments that I can control.

That brings us to the big question: What am I actually doing to celebrate the halfcentury mark? Hate to disappoint some of you folks, but I’m not jetting off to Fiji or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

I’ve decided that on my special day, I want nothing more than to sit down to an intimate family dinner with no sports practices, no texting, and no need for the kids to gulp down their food and dash off. I want to feel close to the people who are important in my life, appreciate where I’ve been, and consider where I’m headed.

Maybe “middle-aged” isn’t so bad after all!

— Mindy Fauntleroy, Co-Founder and Vice President of Marketing

you’re hired! ence Confer ees attend

Let us help you design your personalized plan to reenter the workforce iRelaunch Return to Work Conference Join the nation’s leading career reentry experts April 27, 2012 Evanston Hilton Garden Inn

iRelaun c Founde h rs

Hosted by: Kellogg School of Management No matter what your reason was for taking a career break, we can help you return with confidence!

For more information, visit us at returntoworkconference.com

registration

Videos

make it better column

purpose, passion profit Announcing our Better Deals and Philanthropy Awards

By Susan B. Noyes

T

here is a growing economic movement for the better. It’s a desire for our actions to make a difference, belief that doing what we enjoy will make pleasure out of work, a wish to support causes and people we know and trust, and the ability to easily connect via the Internet.

Cause-Related Marketing

We all have more demands on our time and dollars. So we 14

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need win/win/win scenarios more than ever. That’s why cause-related marketing­— which links purchasing a product or service with supporting a worthy organization, project or cause—is a growing phenomenon. Buy something for yourself, support a local business, and help a cause that makes the world better.

Cause-related marketing particularly appeals to afflu-

family

ent mothers. Mothers develop multi-tasking, win/win scenario instincts by necessity, and 92% of the big-hearted, well-educated women who live in the northern suburbs said in Make It Better’s readership survey that they respond to cause-related marketing.

We want to do all we can to leave our children a better world, and we feel the need to use our material blessings to help others, too.

For these reasons, Make It Better is proud to launch two new initiatives to make life better for you and the businesses and nonprofits you support.

Better Deals: A Win For Businesses, Not-forProfits and You The first initiative is “Bet-

Better Deals Sign up at makeitbetter. net/better-deals in for the business.

W Win for the not-for-profit.

Win for you.

ter Deals,” a daily deal featuring a local business. We’ve designed it so the business keeps a greater percentage of the proceeds, a charity gets 5-10% and you save money. Win for the business. Win for the notfor-profit. Win for you.

Please join us and sign up for our Better Deals at makeit better.net/better-deals.

Make It Better Philanthropy Awards

Our second initiative is the Make It Better Philanthropy

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make it better column

Awards, which will be announced at our celebration of this magazine’s third anniversary on or around National Philanthropy Day, November 15th. We hope these awards will stimulate some very creative cause-related marketing campaigns.

We’re excited about these awards not just because of their potential to stimulate more win/win/win opportunities, but also because they will help deserving not-forprofits get their message out to the broader community.

Living Our Mission

The Mission of Make It Better is to be the most trusted, easiest-to-use community resource and magazine that helps you make your life and the lives of others better. These Better Deals and Philanthropy

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Awards are our proud next steps in living that mission.

Please let us know if our work helps you or a cause dear to you. Thank you.

Coming this November: our Philanthropy Awards ost Effective Education M Innovator M ost Innovative Fundraising M ost Improved Fundraising Most Inspiring Mission M ost Lives Made Better Per Dollar Learn more at makeitbetter.net/ awards2012

Publisher & CEO Kimberly Carroll

Founder & President Susan B. Noyes

Editor in Chief Laura Hine

Senior Editor Liz Logan

Art Director Jessica DeJong

Designers Karilyn Owens Sarah Philippart Illustrator/Designer Megan Arenson

Dining Editor Julie Chernoff

Events Editor Kelly Konrad

Fashion Editor Kathryn Achenbach

Finance Editor Meghan Streit

Fitness Editor Christy Coughlin

Home Editor Tate Gunnerson Make a Difference Editor Laura Tiebert

Pet Editor Elyse Russo Senior Living Editor Stuart Greenblatt Sex & the Suburbs Editor Marjie Killeen

Proofreaders Julie Chernoff Kelly Konrad

Chief Financial Officer Sandy Tsuchida

Contributing Writers Demika Caldwell

Marci Fair Samantha Kiersey Jennifer Luby Jan Mostrom Kristina Tober Kim Treger

Photographers Britt Anderson Hilda Burke Tate Gunnerson Olivia Leigh Nathaniel Perry Rachelle Thompson

Creative Director Cheryl Berman

Co-Founder & Vice

President of Marketing Mindy Fauntleroy

Ad Sales Director Michelle Weiss

Directors of Community Sharon Krone

Development Sandra A. Miller Director of Special Suzy Guyot Hilbrant Projects

Senior Account Patti Augustyn Executives Megan Holbrook Account Executives Julie Carter Stacy Ditka Deana Lewis

Traffic Coordinator Jenny Newman

Make It Better

1150 Wilmette Ave., Suite J, Wilmette, IL 60091, 847-256-4642 Got feedback? E-mail susan@makeitbetter.net To advertise, contact michelle@makeitbetter.net

Follow us on

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you said it

get online

Here’s some recent feedback we’ve gotten from readers. We love to hear from you—so please send us your stories, comments, ideas, reviews and resources!

I

loved the March publication of Make It Better. It is really elegant, full of super attractive information, and a professional tour de force. I was deeply moved by Susan’s letter about her Mom and John.

—Mari Terman

on our facebook page

In response to an article, “7 Tips for Getting Kids to Practice” our readers said: Lucinda Yang: Very practi-

cal advice!

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Elizabeth Curry: These

are good suggestions, but as a piano teacher, I would also add communicate with your child’s teacher. Find out what the teacher expects. Also enlist the teacher if you are having battles over practicing.

Sometimes it is more a matter of the child not knowing how to practice. As a teacher, I like to know how things are going at home because it helps me to know how I can help.

What I don’t want is the child to think of making music as punitive and unpleasant.

get online

I

n response to February’s column on domestic violence, here are the “red flags” of potential domestic violence and resources for anyone needing help.

Is/Does your partner:

Extremely jealous or possessive Accuse you of being flirtatious Constantly call and check up on you Tell you how to dress Control who you see Threaten to hurt you if you try to leave Threaten suicide if you try to leave Make you feel no one else will ever want you Pressure you into sex Exhibit big mood swings, always making you feel like you’re walking on eggshells

Threaten to hurt friends or family

If you see these signs in your relationship: The YWCA Evanston/North Shore operates a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter for women and children, legal advocacy services, and community counseling services for women and children. Their 24/7 hotline number is 877-718-1868.

A Safe Place in Lake County also provides services for women experiencing domestic violence. Their number is 800600-7233. The State of Illinois Domestic Violence Helpline number is 877-863-6338.

—Karen Singer, President/ CEO YWCA Evanston/ North Shore

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fresh

what’s new

hot

sandwiches with soul

Soulwich 1634 Orrington Ave., Evanston 847-328-2222, soulwich.com

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Photo COURTESY OF SOULWICH

The Asian sandwich craze has landed in Evanston with the opening of Soulwich, which puts a pan-Asian spin on your average banh mi (Vietnamesestyle sandwiches). Owner Bhavini Patel of Chicago drew inspiration from a variety of Asian food stalls. You can taste those influences in sandwiches such as the Indonesian Ginger Barbeque, with homemade barbeque sauce, red cabbage and caramelized onion. The seating is limited, though, so your best option is takeout.

fresh

in your community

By Liz Logan

for hot mamas There are definitely lots of hot mamas in the northern suburbs—and now there’s a new store to satisfy their upscale fashion needs. Hot Mama, opening its 7th Chicago-area store at the Arboretum of South Barrington this spring, offers contemporary clothing and premium denim for hip, fashionforward women. With moms in mind, the clothing and accessories are meant to be easy-towear, versatile and flattering for many ages and body types.

Photo courtesy of HOT MAMA

Hot Mama The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Rd., South Barrington, shopmama.com

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fresh

what’s new

hot

Christine Montaquila and Courtney Weinberg of Glencoe spent many years crafting clever messages in the advertising world before starting their own line of funny and sarcastic greeting cards. Now, they’re adding to the line with other fun products that tell it like it is.

We love the card messages like, “With money and medication, we’re unstoppable,” and “You’re finally divorced, let the experimental sex begin.” Check out their fun baggage tags, memo pads printed with “peace love shoes,” and a purse-sized note pad noting, “My kids are my cardio.” naughtybettyinc.com

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Photos COURTESY OF NAUGHTY BETTY INC

get a little naughty

fresh

in your community continued

from wellesley to winnetka

Photo COURTESY OF SARA CAMPBELL

If you’re a fan of the East Coast-chic looks in Nantucket and Newport, you’ll love the fashions at Sara Campbell, a Boston-based company that offers classic, timeless styles with contemporary flair. The new Winnetka location is the company’s eighth store and the first in the Chicago area. Sara Campbell also has a rich history of giving back that Director of Stores Laura Finnegan of Wilmette plans to keep growing—so look for trunk shows and other events supporting local causes.

Sara Campbell 563 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, 847-441-2813, saracampbell.com

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tick tock

trend report

what the north shore reads in april

By Laura Hine

2 3

5 4

6

1. amazing north shore volunteers - 28% 2. great graduation gifts - 17% 3. kids and chores - 15% 4. marriage counseling - 14% 5. mudroom makeover - 13% 6. spring fashion - 13% Based on the most popular articles on Make It Better’s website in April 2011

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north shore volunteer photo courtesy of barb tubekis; mudroom photo courtesy of wood-mode; spring fashion shoe photo by julie crawford

1

better or bust

foundation for photos

By Laura Hine

photo courtesy of chantecaille

W

hen the big day approaches — with lots of cameras flashing at you—make sure your skin looks luminous, but natural. We tested a foundation recommended

by Allison Tucker, cosmetics coordinator for Neiman Marcus, and it definitely earns a “better” rating.

Chantecaille’s Oil-Free Gel Foundation ($72) provides adjustable coverage, so for the big party, you might want to use a little more, but on an ordinary day, you can use just a bit for light coverage. Our tester liked that she

couldn’t feel it on her skin, but it evened out her tone and gave lovely, natural-looking coverage.

Another plus: The products in this line are free of all synthetic colors and fragrances, and don’t contain phthalates or petrochemicals. makeitbetter.net

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tick tock

10-minute recipes

funny food for breakfast

B

ill & Claire Wurtzel’s new book, “Funny Food” (Welcome Books, 2012), celebrates healthy and creative breakfasts, and while you might not think that making food fun can also be quick, the book will prove you wrong.

These waffle people take seconds to make with strawberries, bananas and even the occasional piece of bacon. Use our homemade waffle recipe or a healthy frozen one (we won’t tell).

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funny food Photos courtesy of “Funny Food,” by Bill & Claire Wurtzel © 2012 Welcome Enterprises, Inc., www.funnyfood.us

By Laura Hine

tick tock

“Your breakfasts don’t have to look like they’ll land in the Louvre,” Bill Wurtzel says. “It’s the gesture that counts.”

Love your waffle maker?

We want to know. Give us the Better or Bust on your brand. facebook.com/ makeitbetter.net

Multi-Grain Waffles Makes 12, 6-inch waffles 1 cup flour O cup whole-wheat flour (or a mix of corn meal, whole wheat, rye, etc.)

2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tablespoon sugar K teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons butter, melted (K stick) 1 K cups milk (any kind including almond, soy, etc.)

3 large eggs, lightly beaten 1. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl, then make a well in the middle and add the melted butter and milk. Mix a little then add eggs.

2. Cook in a preheated waffle maker until golden brown.

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events

r e c o m m e n d e d april 2012

By Kelly Konrad

apr

Chicago Botanic Garden Antiques

19 and Garden Fair

April 19 – 22 Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org Get ready for some garden glam—the Chicago Botanic Garden’s annual Antiques and Garden Fair is a must-see as you get ready to put your best horticultural and architectural foot forward this summer. More than 100 exhibitors will be on hand to inspire, with treasures at every price point.

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Photo courtesy of © Chicago Botanic Garden

editor’s pick:

events

apr

Arturo Sandoval

7 April 7

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Evanston pickstaiger.org Grammy award-winning trumpeter Arturo Sandoval performs one night only, along with the Chicago Jazz Orchestra. One of the best nights of jazz on the North Shore! apr

Easter Egg-

7 Stravaganza

April 7 Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago | lpzoo.org A perfect time to visit Lincoln Park’s Farm-in-the-Zoo—breakfast with The Bunny, an egg hunt and crafts are all a part of this inaugural event. apr

Second City LOL

14 Tour

April 14 Glenbrook South High School, Glenview | titanboosterclub.org A Second City performance that even kids can attend. It’s a night of hijinks and hilarity with

a benefit performance from these improv all-stars. apr

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Reptile Fest 2012

April 14 and 15 UIC Forum, Chicago chicagoherp.org Get your Godzilla groove on this weekend! Climb into a tortoise pen, get your hands on an iguana and learn all you need to know about lizard care. apr

Be The Groove

14 April 14

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, Arlington Heights metropolisarts.com Bring on the drums—a phenomenal mix of dance styles and drumming make for a fabulous family experience. apr

“Unscripted

19 Romance”

April 19 Wilmette Theatre, Wilmette wilmettetheatre.com

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events

Improv + relationships = hilarious. Join Lindsey Finn and Derrick Aguis as they explore the highs and lows of love during this one night only event, in cooperation with Annoyance Theatre.

Shen YUN 19 performing arts apr

April 19-22 Civic Opera House, Chicago shenyunperformingarts.com In town for one weekend only ­— don’t miss this fascinating combination of dance and music celebrating Chinese culture. apr

Modern Vintage

21 Chicago Spring

Fashion and Jewelry show April 21 – 22 1340 W. Washington St., Chicago randolphstreetmarket.com If you’re all about vintage, make plans to head downtown for a fashion and jewelry extravaganza.

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Friends of Gorton 21 Fashion Forward apr

April 21 900 North Shore Dr., Lake Bluff gortoncenter.org The perfect time for a spring fashion show? Spring! Get a leg up on the “I want to be seen in THAT” crowd as The Friends of Gorton host their annual show. apr

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Arbor Day 10K

April 22 Morton Arboretum, Lisle mortonarb.org What better way to spend Earth Day than to actually be outside—take a 10k jog through Morton Arboretum’s beautiful landscape, and enjoy a pancake breakfast afterward. apr

“A Year with Frog

26 and Toad”

April 26 – 28 Dempster Street Theatre, Evanston musicinst.org Sponsored by the Music Insti-

events

tute of Chicago, enjoy a familyfriendly show featuring two of the most familiar childhood friends, Frog and Toad. apr

15th Annual

27 Merchandise

Mart Antiques Fair April 27 – 30 Merchandise Mart, Chicago merchandisemartantiques.com An exquisite locale, vendors from around the globe, and your chance to consult with experts, as well as learn more about antiques and interior design. apr

Smelt Fest

Photo by Clay McBride

27 April 27

Park Avenue Beach, Highland Park pdhp.org It’s a North Shore tradition— spring smelting. You can catch a few fish, enjoy live music and commune with friends and neighbors you haven’t seen after a winter indoors.

apr

Colin Mochrie and

27 Brad Sherwood

April 27 North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie northshorecenter.org Feeling funny? Enjoy an interactive improv night of fun, featuring two stars of the Emmy nominated “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” apr

 Jazz at Lincoln

27 Center Orchestra

with Wynton Marsalis April 27 – 28 Chicago Symphony Center, Chicago cso.org Wynton Marsalis is synonymous with the very best in jazz—and he’s here in town for two shows, including one geared specifically toward kids.

event listings

recommended events listing

april highlights

By Kelly Konrad

ongoing Museum of Science and Industry: Mythbusters Through September 3 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr., Chicago msichicago.org Field Museum: Genghis Khan Through September 3 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago fieldmuseum.org Charles James: Genius Deconstructed Through April 2012 Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago chicagohistory.org

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“10 Ways to Kill Your Husband” Through April 15 Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights metropolisarts.com This Will Have Been: Art, Love & Politics in the 1980s Through June 3 Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago | mcachicago.org Sonic Sensation Through April 2012 Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview kohlchildrensmuseum.org

event listings

Circus Zirkus Through August 12 Chicago Children’s Museum, Navy Pier chicagochildrensmuseum.org Shedd Aquarium: Jellies Through May 28 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago sheddaquarium.org “Oh, You Flapper!” Fashion Highlights of the 1920s Through Spring 2012 Wilmette Historical Museum, 609 Ridge Rd., Wilmette wilmettehistory.org Ours to Fight For: American Jews in the Second World War Through June 17 The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Dr., Skokie ilholocaustmuseum.org

april 1 – 7 Stories Aboard the Titanic April 3 Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette wilmettetheatre.com The English Beat April 6 - 7 SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston evanstonspace.com Monthly Photo Walk April 7 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., chicagobotanic.org Indoor Farmer & Artisan Food Market April 7 Evanston Ecology Center, 2024 McCormick Blvd., Evanston cityofevanston.org

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event listings

Grayslake Antique Market April 7 - 8 Lake County Fairgrounds, Grayslake | zurkopromotions.com

Comedy at the ‘Mette April 14 Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette wilmettetheatre.com

Kids in the Kitchen with Gale Gand April 7 Elawa Farm, 1401 N. Middlefork Rd., Lake Forest | elawafarm.org

CAFamily Studio Sunday April 15 Chicago Architecture Foundation, 224 S. Michigan Ave., Chicagoarchitecture.org

april 8 – 15

april 16 – 22

Family Awareness Network: “Louder Than a Bomb” April 9 New Trier High School, Gaffney Auditorium, 385 Winnetka Ave., Winnetka fan-ntts.ntnow.org

Adler After Dark April 19 Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago adlerplanetarium.org

Kids Fare: A Fleet of Feet April 14 Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston pickstaiger.org

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Earth Day/Arbor Day Celebration April 21 Evanston Ecology Center, 2024 McCormick Blvd., Evanston cityofevanston.org Liz & Ann Hampton

event listings

Callaway in BOOM! April 21 North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie | northshorecenter.org

Sketchbook Studies April 28 Ryerson Conservation Area, 21950 N. Riverwoods Rd., Riverwoods | lcfpd.org

april 23 – 31

Skokie’s Spring Greening April 29 Niles North High School, 9800 N. Lawler Rd., Skokie skokiespringgreening.org

Johnny Winter April 23 - 24 SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston evanstonspace.com Joffrey Ballet: “Spring Desire” Opens April 25 The Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago joffrey.com

meet the author Kelly Konrad, Glenview Kelly and Jim slow jammed to Luther Vandross’ “Here and Now.” Yes, they were married 20 years ago, how can you tell? makeitbetter.net/meetour-writers

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By Julie Chernoff, Laura Hine, Susan B. Noyes, Kristina Tober and Kim Treger

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Weddings and beyond

weddings and beyond

Everyone loves a party! It’s a chance to bring family and friends together to celebrate a milestone, but it doesn’t have to be once a year or once a decade. The beginning of the weekend is worthy of celebration. A teen reaching a goal deserves a party. And your birthday (whether it ends in a “0” or not) needs a cake and more.

We found inspiration and laughter from these celebrations and we hope they will move you to call, email or send an engraved invitation to your friends and family. Plan that soirée. The reward: renewed friendships and a reminder that any excuse to celebrate is worth taking.

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maximum love

Planning the perfect wedding

By Susan B. Noyes ext January, our 27-year-old son, Nick, is marrying a fantastic woman, Noelle.

Our family will have fun with the two Christmas names—St. Nick and Noelle—the rest of our lives. But before that, we want to give the affianced the best possible start, with a lovingly organized wedding.

When Nick’s siblings asked to throw an engagement party for continued u Tom and Erin Lawler, photographed at the Baha'i temple by Angel Eyes Photography - Hilda Burke

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the couple with three hours of open bar and only one hour of appetizers—maximum alcohol, minimal food, egads!— we hit the first of many complex decision-making points.

Aligning values with the endless possibilities of wedding planning can be a challenge!

Fortunately though, we found excellent advice from Second City’s Jacobina (Bina) Martin and her mother Judith, who is the syndicated columnist, Miss Manners. The Martins wrote an excellent book to guide couples and their families through the wedding planning process with wit, wisdom and common sense, “Miss Manners’ Guide To A Surprisingly Dignified Wedding.” (W.W. Norton).

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In short, Bina and her mother strongly advocate that every wedding and prenuptial event be organized around a guest list of those who know and love the bride or groom well, traditions that reflect the couple’s lives and values, and “If you drain your bank account and alienate your friends, it’s too much. Also, if there’s an elephant involved.” a budget that will not strain their future finances.

I think of this as maximum love and minimal ostentation (with minimal potential for alcohol poisoning).

A fresh-faced, chestnut-haired beauty who lives on Chicago’s North Side with her husband

Photo by rachelle thompson

and two-year-old daughter, Bina will speak at our Make It Better Life Celebrations event on June 14, at 6:30 p.m., at The Book Stall in Winnetka. To register: makeitbetter.net/ lifecelebrations. In the meantime, she answers our most pressing questions: SBN: What is the best way to create an event and guest list that reflects the couple’s life and values?

JM: Most people plan their events backwards. They fixate on their (material) dream and then figcontinued u

ure out how many people will fit within its budget. The message becomes “my fantasy is more important to the event than having you in it.”

If your values include spending within your means and caring about others, then a celebratory event that reflects this should be easy. And usually much more dignified.

SBN: How much is too much?

JM: If you drain your bank account and alienate your friends, it’s too much. Also, if there’s an elephant involved.

SBN: What did you love about your own wedding?

JM: The cake. No seriously, it was pumpkin.

SBN: Any other tips?

JM: Let tradition prevail if your event has a ceremony.

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It will be “personal” because of the people involved. And as far as planning everything else: It’s a party. You’re not trying to get your child into pre-school. Have fun and be inclusive.Yes, you are juggling a lot of personalities and opinions, but at the end of the day, you’re picking out flowers and taste-testing bruschetta. How stressful can that be?

Jacobina Martin

celebrating the ages

By Kim Treger

W

omen of a certain age used to not mention the number attached to a birthday.

But now, women are wearing a new decade like a badge of honor, and not simply celebrating a birthday, but elevating the experience beyond a party and into a life-changing transformation.

Around the World in 18 Days

Last year, Jennifer Konz-Alt and her husband, Aaron Alt, both turned 40 and marked the occasion with a lastminute family trip around

the world. “It was the sort of airfare package that a recent college grad might use to take a year abroad, but we used it to see the world in 18 days!” Jennifer explains.

With only a month to plan their adventure, the Alts and their sons— Griffin, 8, and Zach, 6— packed everything they would need into two suitcases and took off. Visiting the Cook Islands, Hong Kong, New Zealand, L.A., San Francisco, London and Paris, the Alts found the travel bonded their family in a new way. continued u

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“We discovered that the unplanned moments were the most enjoyable,” Jennifer says. Like marking Jennifer’s actual birthday with a Domino’s pizza delivered atop a 44

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volcano in Auckland.

This trip of a lifetime marked their important birthdays by honoring two of the things the Alts hold dear—family and travel.

Photo courtesy of sharon simon

Sharon Simon and friends in Puerto Vallerta

Four Trips for Four Decades

Sharon Simon of Chicago wasn’t shy about turning 40, but wanted the focus to be less on her and more on her loved ones.

She organized a trip for each decade: San Francisco with family; South Africa with a friend on a lifelong dream trip; South Beach to reconnect with childhood friends; and finally, living it up with 13 friends in Puerto Vallarta.

Back in Chicago for her actual birthday, Sharon hosted a dozen friends for a dinner at which she refused gifts, but invited everyone to contribute to a scholarship fund created to honor her brother, who was killed in a 1993 car accident. “I was surrounded by friends from all parts of

my life who knew what that meant to me, and the feeling of support was amazing,” she recalls.

The Bucket’s Half Full!

“I’m 50, so why not?” became a mantra for adventuresome Bev Pinaire of Wilmette. “I feel younger now than I did ten years ago,” she claims, describing her hiking and rappelling trips. Ticking off the list of things on her sort-of bucket list included a jump from an airplane, which she says she would do again in a heartbeat. “If there’s a bucket list, I swear my bucket is still half full,” she exclaims.

Celebrations like these can make a woman feel ageless and make age seem meaningless.

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friday night lights Shabbat celebrations on the North Shore

very Friday night at sundown (or thereabouts), Jewish families all over the world celebrate the arrival of Shabbat, the Sabbath day of rest. Lights are kindled, prayers are said, wine is drunk, challah (the traditional egg bread) is broken, and dinner begins.

It’s a custom shared by millions, connecting past and present.

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Yet amongst all this tradition, there’s room for creativity and interpretation. Enter Highland Park artist/cartoonist Sharon Rosenzweig and her husband, Aaron Freeman, the well-known comedian, author and radio personality.

Freeman converted to Judaism more than 20 years ago, and latched onto the tradition of Friday night dinners. Rosen-

photos by britt anderson

By Julie Chernoff

zweig joined in the fun when they married in 2004. The story of the Torah comes alive at their table, with the week’s “parsha” (portion) becoming the theme for the dinner itself. They have had as many as 25 guests, but generally keep the weekly dinner to a more manageable 12. It’s a coveted invitation on the North Shore.

“We tell our guests to try to imagine themselves into the story,” Freeman says with a chuckle.

“Aaron always finds a way to incorporate all the dishes For more info visit thecomictorah.com, a website that details their “reimagining of the Very Good Book” as a graphic novel, written by Freeman and illustrated by Rosenzweig.

into that week’s parsha, even if it’s a bit of a stretch. He makes it all fit, somehow,” Rosenzweig adds.

As you can imagine, hilarity ensues. But so does discussion and spirited debate. “We talk about the Torah portion through the lens of the food,” Freeman says. And Rosenzweig sets the tone with her continued on page 55 u

a surprising way to say “i do”

By Laura Hine

I 48

do” and “Surprise!” aren’t generally heard on the same night, but these couples astonished their guests to make their weddings unforgettable.

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lara and ed meissner, photo page 50 courtesy of barry siegel and sheila flaherty

Photo page 48 & 51 (bottom row) courtesy of naderÉ sternberg. photo page 50 courtesy of

Jeffrey and Naderé Sternberg had only been engaged for two months when they sent out invitations for their engagement party. They told their friends that their wedding was going to be a familyonly destination wedding, so they hoped everyone would make it to the engagement party in Chicago. Of course, that was a clever cover story, which they went to elaborate lengths to make believable.

The night of their party, they greeted guests in cocktail attire, socialized for the first hour, then quietly slipped away. When Jeffrey’s grandfather took the stage to welcome everyone with a toast, he said, “We have a little surprise for you before dinner.” At that, a curtain parted, revealing a room set with chairs, an aisle,

flowers— clearly ready for a wedding.

“We could hear the guests screaming, cheering and laughing,” Naderé says.

“There was just so much energy in the room,” Jeffrey adds.

“People were so happy and surprised.” Including one aunt and uncle who were doubly surprised because Jeffrey and Naderé had secretly flown in their daughter from Paris to be there for the wedding.

A great cover story is clearly a must for a surprise wedding. For Evanston poet Barry Siegel, his 60th birthday party was already planned. As he was writing a poem about his longtime girlfriend, Sheila Flaherty, he decided that he makeitbetter.net

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would surprise her, and not only ask her to marry him at the party, but actually get married that night.

“I got up to read ‘November Sun,’ ” Barry recalls. “And everyone assumed it would be about turning 60, but when I got to the lines, ‘Marry me now, Marry me please,’ there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.”

Sheila admits she would have worn a different sweater if she’d known, but loved every minute of the surprise and their wedding.

For Lara and Ed Meissner, their cover story was their eminent move from Chicago to London. To say goodbye 50

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to friends and family, they planned a bash at Salvage One. Lara told 20 of her closest friends that a magician was going to start the evening off, so she needed each of them to hold a flower and envelope as part of the act. Instead, when the surprise was revealed, Lara walked down the aisle, kissing and hugging her girlfriends; their flowers became her bouquet. Each envelope held a letter, telling why Lara valued their friendship.

Again, not a dry eye in the house.

The usual surprise party has one honoree who’s shocked, but the dynamic changes when every guest gets to have that moment of thrill; when they all realize that the evening is not what they expected and a magical

Surprise!

Tips for Secretly Planning Your Nuptials If you’re considering a surprise wedding, the three couples we talked to recommend these steps: Have a plausible cover story and stick to it.

Keep your mouth shut.

Plan for the moment of surprise. Both the

1 2 3

event is about to happen. For these couples, their weddings

Meisners and Sternbergs had a curtain open after a toast for the reveal.

Accept that not everyone will come. Every couple mentioned that one or two people didn’t make it, but the people who care the most will make it.

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were the beginning of a lifetime of surprises.

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Children with special needs—and their families—gain confidence as they become bar or bat mitzvahs

By Kristina Tober

P

arenting a child with special needs on the journey to the bima reminds us that sometimes taking a leap of faith—in your child, in yourself as a parent and in your God—can deliver unexpected miracles.

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Despite unique challenges, Michelle Rappaport, Jack Rosen and Scott Tepperman each made their bar or bat mitzvah. Michelle has been diagnosed with familial dysautonomia, a rare genetic disorder; Jack and Scott have autism.

Photo courtesy of the rosen family. *note: all photos taken in the synagogue were taken before or after the service.

mazel tov!

Photo courtesy of rappaport family and temple chai in long grove

For Michelle, her journey began at Keshet. Dedicated to helping individuals with developmental disabilities reach their personal potential in all areas, including Jewish religious growth, Keshet has helped hundreds of youngsters through their bar and bat mitzvah tutoring program.

For Jack, it was his rabbi at B'nai Jehoshua Beth Elohim who preached acceptance and welcomed children with special needs to worship. For Scott, it was his love of Shabbat services at Beth Emet Synogogue, music and the peace of a beautiful sanctuary. With the support of their home synagogues and the help of Keshet tutors, each was able to demonstrate the enormous growth and maturity that any bar or bat mitzvah must, through study and practice.

“So often we focus on a child’s deficits,” says Audrey Tepperman, Scott’s mother.

“On his bar mitzvah, Scott reminded us all of his many strengths. He wore his tallit, opened the Ark and walked with the Torah. All of these were big things that required lots of practice. It was his turn to stand on the bima in his own way.” Standing beside him, as with each milestone, were his parents: Audrey read Scott’s Torah portion and his father, Dan, delivered the sermon.

For more than two years, Jack practiced his prayers. On the day of his service, he gave

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Photo courtesy of tepperman family

voice to his potential. “Here was our child, who has minimal speech, reciting prayers in Hebrew,” Wendy Rosen remembers. “He looked out at the congregation, seeing all the people who have been so present in his life, and gave them the composure and performance of a lifetime.”

While also largely non-verbal, Michelle recited her Aliyah, prayers and chants, proving to herself and everyone how capable she is. “Michelle has her good and bad days, but that was one of her best,” explains her mother, Barrie Rappaport. “She reminded us

of how present she is and how, with acceptance and a willingness to find a way to make it work, we can help her accomplish so much more than we ever anticipated.”

These services were also a time to thank the people who worked with their children for so many years. Therapists, nurses, teachers and aides joined friends and family.

Michelle’s father Rick gave a special toast to “Team Michelle.”

“Our rabbi reminds us that special needs kids are closer to God because their emotions are so authentic,” Wendy Rosen says. “Jack held it together until the end of the service and finally broke into giggles, and we all joined in.

It was a complete and utter expression of joy, of the happiness that is Jack.”

continued from page 47

challahs, sculpted to fit the theme.

It can be a challenge to make something routine— even a ritual as important as Shabbat—into a familyfriendly event that will keep the children engaged. That’s why Evanston maven Emily Nidenberg has organized a “Gaming Shabbat,” where a bunch of families gather at her home for a potluck dinner and board games afterward.

“It’s a communal experi-

ence; we do it a few times a year,” Nidenberg explains.

For her family, it’s often an international affair: They’ve hosted exchange students from around the world, most recently from China. “We make an effort to integrate the home customs and ethos of our exchange students into our own celebrations,” she says.

“But I’d really love to get invited to Aaron Freeman’s,” she exclaims. “Now there’s a Shabbat!” Aaron and Sharon, consider yourselves notified.

m eet the authors Julie Chernoff, Evanston When Julie and Josh married in 1988, Julie's parents insisted that she sing to her new groom. She chose "I've Got a Crush on You"— then and now. continued u

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Laura Hine, Wilmette When Laura and Clarkson married 23 years ago (yikes!) their song was Style Council’s “You’re the Best Thing.” Still true today.

Susan Noyes, Wilmette Susan's sister-inlaw, Kathy Canada, composed and performed a song for their wedding, "Now All Of My Life Is For You." Hear the song (it's really beautiful!) and see their outdoor Canadian wedding at makeitbetter.net/ido

Kristina Tober, Lake Forest A Sunday morning wedding, so no dance—but 17 years later Kristina's husband Steve swears by Lyle Lovett's "She's No Lady...She's My Wife."

Kim Treger, Lake Forest The band at Kim's wedding brought the microphone onto the dance floor, inviting guests to sing, so her dad serenaded her with "The Way You Look Tonight," her husband with "You're Nobody 'til Somebody Loves You," but the best was the group number she and her friends did to "I Will Survive."

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family

top party pros 9 tips from

By Jennifer Dunham Luby

Whether your soirĂŠe is once in a lifetime or an annual neighborhood bash, top party pros have insider ideas and tips just for you.

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family

of an event’s 1 Unsure dress code? Consider the person or organization throwing the party. Cocktail attire for a corporate party should be conservative, whereas the same dress code for your niece’s 21st birthday bash is the time for youthful silhouettes and bold colors.

No matter what the dress code, always choose a garment that makes you feel confident, and that you won’t mind being photographed in.

—Julie Blake, Women’s Division Manager and Store Co-Manager, Mark Shale at Northbrook Court Every summer in June or 2 July, Vintage Pine has a huge tag sale, and that’s when Heffernan Morgan Designs cleans out their warehouse. It’s 58

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a great source for props for an event—everything from superhero cutouts to holiday garlands. (Check vintagepine.com for the exact date.)

—Bill Heffernan, Founder, Heffernan Morgan Designs, Chicago you get engaged, 3 When don’t panic and immediately start booking venues.

Take a deep breath and start with your budget, and what you really want guests to take away from your event. The priority should be getting down the aisle and saying “I do.” Everything after that is frosting!

—Mindy Weiss, Author of “The Wedding Planner & Organizer,” and event planner for celebrities including Heidi Klum and Katy Perry

family

a surprise parIf your celebration is a 4 Planning 6 ty? When considering multicultural one, share music, pick a playlist from when the honoree was between the ages of 13 and 22. Upbeat music from the formative years creates a mood of fun and familiarity that will coax even the most surprised guest of honor out of their shell.

—Jeff Bizar, CEO, Bizar Entertainment, Deerfield is the key to 5 Confidence looking great in candid photos. Relax, be in the moment and avoid over-posing (that means ditching the handon-the-hip stance). Keep your arms natural, stand with one foot slightly ahead of the other, and shift your weight backwards. Now think happy thoughts, and smile!

—Chuan Vo, Owner and Photographer, Vofotos, Chicago

the “best of” from each culture with passed hors d’oeuvres. They can be sampled or turned away, so there’s no pressure! Try to incorporate as many elements from each tradition as possible. Do research into each culture’s food and symbolism to avoid offensive foods or colors.

—Wendy Pashman, Owner, Entertaining Company, Chicago to give the hostess 7 What with the mostest? Unless you know her tastes very well, wine, chocolates and scented candles can be risky. The best gift is something small and useful, yet a piece she’d never buy for herself. Opt for a beautifully wrapped serving item for her next soiree, or a leather-bound notepad.

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family

—Gayle Cohen, Manager, Material Possessions, Winnetka that emotional big 8 Before day, ask your makeup artist to use silicone-based waterproof airbrush makeup. It will stay put through sweat and tears, until you take it off. This type of makeup also has the added benefit of creating a smooth surface over pesky fine lines. Also, avoid using moisturizers or foundations containing titanium dioxide, a common SPF ingredient. It reflects light and will give you a ghostly appearance in photos.

—Holly Kasprisin, Owner and Lead Artist, Chicago Bridal Hair and Makeup (For more tips, check out “Get Beautiful for Your Big Day” on page 95)

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on a dime with 9 Decorate this party stylist secret: Group candles in different heights and sizes on coffee tables, mantles, bars and buffets. The tiered, colorful collections of pillar and votive candles will make your party shine with hardly any effort.

—Debi Lilly, Chief Eventeur, A Perfect Event, Chicago

meet the author Jennifer Dunham Luby, Chicago Jen talked her husband Dan into the jazz standard “My One and Only Love” after her best friend introduced her to Sting’s version of it, from the “Leaving Las Vegas” soundtrack. makeitbetter.net/meetour-writers

family

girls’ night in: slumber party with girlfriends!

By Demika Caldwell

Host a slumber party for your next girls’ night out! Before making any plans, arrange for your significant other and kids to be away for the night. Then, send out invitations and include everything you want your guests to bring (pajamas, sleeping bags, drinks, food, games, movies, nail polish, make-up, facial creams, etc). Food and cocktails are essential!

a thoughtful baby gift that keeps on giving

By Marci Fair

While baby outfits are tempting to give, babies outgrow them quickly.

Instead, give that sweet baby the 10 favorite books you read with your child! “Good Night Moon,” “10 Minutes To Bedtime,” “Green Eggs and Ham,” “Guess How Much I Love You”—the list goes on and on.

Inscribe the inside cover to personalize the gift from you!

plan a progressive dinner party with friends

By Jan Mostrom

I live in a great neighborhood where we enjoy regular summer gettogethers, but during the rest of the year, we miss seeing each other. To catch up and reconnect, we planned our first progressive dinner party.

The cocktails were at one home, then we split up into smaller groups for dinners, and gathered back together at the end of the evening for dessert.

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sponsored content

spill disaster kit

By Doug W. Stein, Kashian Brothers

D

on’t let your celebration be spoiled by spilled milk (or anything else for that matter).

Any party giver should be prepared with a spill disaster kit filled with basic items that can be found at your local hardware or grocery store.

• Plain white absorbent, non-printed towels • White vinegar • 4% Hydrogen peroxide • Dry cleaning solvent or mineral spirits • 100% acetone nail polish remover • Kashian spotter bottle (free at Kashian Bros showroom) • Baking soda

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Helpful hints • The faster you attend to the spot, the better.

• Before applying, test in an inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn’t discolor your rug.

• Be cautious when using soap detergents like dishwasher soap or laundry soap. These can sometimes permanently set the stain.

Problem Spill Home Remedies Red Wine

Blot with clean white towel, do not scrub. Pour on a small

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amount of 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water and blot with towel. Cover with clean dry towel and colorfast weight allowing any residue to wick up.

Vo m i t

C a n d l e Wa x

Place brown paper bag (like grocery bag) over spot and use iron on warm setting on top of the paper. Keep shifting the paper until all wax is removed.

Scrape or blot up what you can, then sprinkle with baking soda.

Scrape and vacuum. Apply small amount of Kashian Bros. spotter, rinse and blot.

Nail Polish

Pe t Urine or Feces

Grease or Oil

Scoop or blot up the spot, then apply 50/50 vinegar and water solution. Blot more. If still yellow, spray 4% hydrogen peroxide and quickly dry spot with fan or hair dryer. To completely remove the odor and help reduce the chance of repeat accidents, call Kashian Bros about their enzyme solution remedy.

Apply a small amount of 100% acetone nail polish remover. Avoid rubbing outward or you will risk spreading the stain.

Apply dry cleaning solvent & blot. Keep shifting towel to keep from spreading.

After applying any home remedy, call in the professional cleaners from Kashian Bros:

1107 Greenleaf Avenue, Wilmette 847-251-1200 kashianbros.com

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the

home

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home

the

NEWish house For a Wilmette family, building green is its own reward S to ry + P h otos by Tat e G u n n e r s o n

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home

“We had amazing masons,” Schmidt says. “Every piece of that stone was studied, cut and placed.”

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home

A

s luck would have it, the housing bubble was at its peak in 2008 when Sarah Schmidt and Julie Matthei began house hunting for a home spacious enough for them to raise their three growing children. “We had outgrown our place in Evanston, and our initial thought was that we wanted to remodel another old house,� Matthei says. Those plans changed when they finally found a wreck of house on an ideal, nearly lakefront lot in

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home

Schmidt and Matthei skipped drapes in favor of motorized roller shades. “We wanted privacy, but we didn’t want to lose the daylight,” Schmidt says.

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home

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home

Most of the tile throughout the house was reclaimed from the former Mallinckrodt convent in Wilmette. According to Matthei, the French encaustic tile was made from concrete in the late 1800s. “The color is poured in the concrete, and that’s why it works so well despite all the chipped edges,� she says.

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home

Wilmette. Rather than pass up the primo location, they decided to demolish and build their dream home in an eco-friendly way. “We were going to build a big house, and that’s not a very ‘green’ thing to do, so it was important for us to do it thoughtfully,” Schmidt explains.

According to their friend and builder Scott Simpson, eco-friendly projects are often good ones, for the simple reason that they require that all the contractors communicate with each other from the very beginning. “We’ve been banging that drum for years,” he explains.

Us i n g r e c l a i m e d m at e r i a l s i n n e w co n s t r u c t i o n

Simpson knew the latest building techniques and had

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experience building with the type of reclaimed materials that were used throughout the home. For example: The hardwood floors and chunky stair treads were reclaimed by Wisconsin-based Urban Evolution, from a former Thomas Edison factory in Michigan.

Old pickle barrels from

Vlasic were used to make the exterior siding and the barn-style closet doors in the basement.

Most of the kitchen and

bathroom tile throughout the house is French encaustic tile that was taken from the former Mallinckrodt convent in Wilmette.

Green building s ta r t s w i t h d e molition

According

to

Matthei,

home

much of the old house was stripped and hauled away.

“It’s common practice now to recycle a house when you tear it down,” she adds. Also becoming common practice are the green building techniques Simpson used to build Schmidt and Matthei’s new home.

G r e e n t i ps f o r n e w co n s t r u ction

I nsulate your house. According to Simpson, insulation is the lowest hanging fruit when it comes to green building. If you’re building new, invest in the best insulation, and anybody can seal drafty doors and windows.

An open layout = fewer

walls = less environmental impact. Enough said.

Give up granite. For their kitchen, Schmidt and Mat72

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thei selected PaperStone kitchen counter tops, which are made from treated recycled paper.

Fallen trees = gorgeous

furnishings. The fireplace mantels, windowsills, desktops, counter and bar surfaces—even the living room coffee table—were made from a tree that had stood on the property.

Conserve water (even if you can see Lake Michigan from the front porch): Schmidt and Matthei water their lawn from an 8,000-gallon water-harvesting tank they had installed under the driveway. They also chose dual-flush toilets and a very efficient water heater.

Although the project took a few months longer than they had originally anticipated, Schmidt and Matthei

home

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home

were able to take possession just 10 days before hosting 120 guests at the rehearsal dinner for their wedding. “The decisions we were making about the house were not the most important decisions we were making in our lives,” Schmidt says. “At the end of the day, it’s a house, and it’s going to be here a long time.”

Architec t: John Holbrook B uilder : Scott Simpson Builders Recl aimed material s:Urban Evolution Bon us Tip for a happy home renovation / construc tion Show appreciation: “I used to bring sandwiches to the crew every Friday,” Schmidt explains. “They worked their tails off in the rain, in the heat.”

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home

Simpson nailed the reclaimed clapboard siding to a frame rather than to the plywood. “It creates a rain screen that allows the air to dry the boards, which extends its natural life,” Simpson explains.

Simpson also separated the boards, which gives the siding a shadow line that creates the home’s unique aesthetic.

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Sarah Schmidt and Julie Matthei

2. Don’t be afraid of color Add a pillow or cashmere throw in your favorite color. It brings vibrancy and luxury to a space.

1. Photos = personal Add your favorite photos of family and friends, but streamline your picture frames. Go for variations of a classic silver frame.

personal yet stylish 5 tips to make a room

Lauren Gold and Sasha Adler are the design directors of Nate Berkus Associates here in Chicago. These chic gals know that once you get the furniture in place, then the real fun begins.

Here are their tips for making a room personal and warm, but still chic and stylish.

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Photos courtesy of Nate Berkus Associates

By Laura Hine

3. Love vintage Never stick to a “color scheme.” Instead, use what you love. Have your grandmother’s fur coat or your favorite vintage rug made into a pillow. Vintage textiles go with just about anything and they add an interesting layer.

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4. Incorporate treasures from your travels

5. When in doubt, keep the walls neutral

It helps a home feel unique and well collected.

Gold and Adler always go for a pale, warm gray or a true ivory.

Let your furniture, accessories and art speak for themselves.

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happenin’ highland park

By Samantha Kiersey

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Spring brings many special occasions and reasons to shop for that special something. Look no further than these Highland Park businesses for your upcoming fetes—graduations, weddings, and parties.

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1. Ooh-La-La 441 Central Ave. | 847-433-5646 parishats.com Maybe the first anniversary of the royal wedding will inspire you to don a fascinator! Here’s a milliner who takes pride in every handmade, unique creation. You can buy a hat “off the peg” or have them create a custom couture hat for any occasion. Kentucky Derby, anyone?

2. Betty Schwartz’s Intimate Boutique 1833 Second St. | 847-432-0220 bettyschwartzs.com Lingerie doesn’t need a specific occasion, but weddings and bridal showers call for a little something special. This Highland Park standard boasts a wide variety of bridal lingerie, as well as stylish swimsuits to pack for your honeymoon.

3. My Best Friend’s Closet 1780 Green Bay Rd. | 847-681-0002 mybestfriendsclosethp.com With an impressive selection of designer consignments, including accessories, My Best Friend’s Closet has something for every occasion. Don’t miss this stop, especially if you are searching for that perfect pair of designer shoes for your party dress.

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4. Campus Colors 599 Central Ave. | 847-433-2300 campuscolors.com College acceptance letters are in the mail and high school seniors all across the North Shore are making their selections. What better way to celebrate graduation than to outfit the whole family with apparel from their top pick?

5. Stationery Station 610 Central Ave. | 847-432-3044 stationerystation.com Since they first opened 35 years ago, Stationery Station has been the go-to place to get personalized invitations for weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs and graduation parties. Bonus: they have tons of hostess gifts and personalized thank-you notes.

6. Café Central 455 Central Ave. | 847-266-7878 cafecentral.net Take a break from shopping and enjoy lunch at this family-owned French bistro. If you’re there on a sunny day, be sure to sit at one of the outdoor tables to enjoy the warm weather. It’s also the perfect place to host an event, such as a baby shower or birthday party.

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onedress, threelooks Winter hibernation gives way to weekends filled with weddings, graduations and other festive events. But don’t break the bank on multiple frocks. One killer dress is all you need when you swap in the right accessories. fashion editor kathryn achenbach stylist evangeline politis photos by julie crawford

the dress Diane von Furstenberg dress, $375, CUSP Northbrook Sure, an LBD will do, but rich navy achieves the same effect as black while still adding fun color.

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Necklaces, from top to bottom:

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metallicgolds

Marcia Moran Large Gold Druzy necklace, $250, Willow Boutique

Regitze 18kt yellow gold earrings with brilliant cut diamonds, $8,275, Georg Jensen

Pame Designs nugget necklace, $250, Willow Boutique Aviva Rose Druzy necklace, $350, Willow Boutique

18kt white, yellow and rose gold diamond bracelets, Price available upon request, Lester Lampert

Kotur iridescent clutch, $495, Shirise

Jimmy Choo peep toe heels, $495, Shirise

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boldblues Chamak by Priya Kakkar bangle, $78, CUSP

Marc by Marc Jacobs satchel, $328, CUSP

Rachael Olseker stone bracelet, $88, Willow Boutique

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Stone ring, $128, CUSP

Patent pump, $328, Kate Spade

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pastelpinks

Pink stone ring, $59.50, Banana Republic

Drop earrings, $35, Banana Republic

Sondra Roberts clutch, $100.95, Lori’s Pink suede heels, $49.90, Zara

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marriage advice for newlyweds

(and the not-so-newly wed)

By Marjie Killeen

N

ewlyweds, I hate to be a downer, but this wave of bliss you’re riding isn’t what marriage is really about. You and your mate are ablaze with sexual chemistry and romance.

You’ve yet to have your love sabotaged by illness, financial hardship, boredom, or a screaming, sleepless, poopcovered child.

But fear not. I’ve discovered the secrets of a longlasting marriage in journalist Iris Krasnow’s latest book, “The Secret Lives of Wives: 88

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Women Share What It Really Takes to Stay Married” (Gotham). Here are three surprising keys to marital success that I gleaned from the book and my interview with Krasnow.

Don’t expect your marriage to make you happy Krasnow interviewed a diverse group of 200 women who had been married from 15 to 70 years. “Some of them couldn’t believe they were still married,” she says.

“But they had figured out the

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central secret to staying married: You can have the best husband and family in the world, but really, happiness is up to you.” The happiest wives had a sense of purpose and passion outside of their relationship.

These women have what Krasnow calls “multi-tracked marriages,” which include meaningful work, hobbies, friends, and even a fantasy or flirtation. This concept runs counter to the romantic ideal that husband and wife should become one. But, says Krasnow, focusing all your energy on your husband is a sure ticket to dissatisfaction. It’s better to lower your expectations for your mate and raise them for yourself.

Create a marriage that works for you Krasnow believes in com

mitment, but acknowledges there are times when the loving comes with periods of pure loathing. To cope with challenges, she urges couples to define their relationship on their own terms.

“What I wanted to do with this book is give people permission to invent their own marriage based on personal, physical, emotional and financial needs, and to shatter this misconception and myth that there is a gold standard marriage out there,” she says.

There’s no right way to be married, she has found, and no one is perfect. So there’s no point in comparing your marriage to anyone else’s.

Some of the couples in “The Secret Lives of Wives” have come up with some very unconventional arrangements.

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“You never know what’s going on behind closed doors, and the only people who know are the people in the marriage,” she says. And, she adds, “Everyone lies about sex.”

Hanging in pays off Marriage is worth it, unless your husband is abusive or an addict or a total jerk, says Krasnow—and boredom is a rotten excuse to bow out. If you’re not happy or interesting yourself, a new man won’t change a thing.

Many women find a group of wild girlfriends and a good wine cellar liven things up.

The benefits of staying married are many, and in time, even rocky marriages can end up in a very sweet place.

According to the book, Florence, married 64 years, says, “At my age, you have gotten to a place where you

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really love your partner again.

Because after a long life together, you cherish the history you have created. You know how to resolve conflict. In the last lap of a marriage, you are really getting close to being merged and whole as one. It takes a lifetime to get to this wonderful place.”

Why, she and her husband sound almost like newlyweds.

meet the author Marjie Kileen, Wilmette Marjie and Liam took dance lessons at Arthur Muray and performed a choreographed waltz to “Moon River” at their wedding reception 21 years ago. Their guests graciously did not laugh. makeitbetter.net/meetour-writers

MODERN, ARTISTIC PHOTOGRAPHY FOR COUPLES & FAMILIES www.OLIVIALEIGHPHOTOGRAPHIE.com | 773.598.5496 BOOKING LOCAL & INTERNATIONAL WEDDINGS FOR 2013 INTRODUCTORY KIDS & TEEN DIVISION RATES NOW AVAILABLE

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8 power foods to eat

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ower foods are yummy, nutritious eats that help fuel you for the day. We ignored the trendy new fruits with names no one can pronounce, hard to swallow vegetables and expensive concoctions in favor of these accessible and powerful foods.

Nutrition researcher Tia M. Raines helped us come up with this list—eat these and you’ll be feeling and looking great for many life celebrations to come.

1 BANANAS

One of the most portable foods, bananas are low in saturated fat, and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Opt for less ripe bananas, because their carbohydrates digest slower in your body. At about 100 calories, and 20 grams of carbs, bananas are a great workout food, supplying energy and replacing electrolytes.

2 SALMON This low-mercury fish is a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which improve heart health, reduce inflammation and potentially improve brain health. A 4-ounce serving has 150 calories, 25 grams of protein and is a great source of vitamins D and B12.

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for health and energy

By Christy Coughlin

3 SPINACH This green beauty is easily added to soups, pastas and smoothies. The anti-inflammatory phytochemicals in spinach are proven cancer fighters, and spinach is loaded with antioxidants.

Spinach is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin A for your skin, and Vitamin K, which strengthens bones.

4 OATMEAL Your grandma’s oatmeal is full of protein, cholesterol-lowering fiber and antioxidants that promote heart health. Oatmeal boosts immunity and helps regulate blood sugar.

5 YOGURT Yogurt provides about 450 milligrams of bonestrengthening calcium and more than 10 grams of protein in an 8-ounce serving. It’s easier to digest than milk so even lactose intolerant tummies can handle it. Bacterial cultures keep your colon healthy.

Choose low- or no-fat varieties, and avoid added sugars, like the fruit-on-the-bottom varieties.

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6 BLUEBERRIES The fruit with the highest concentration of antioxidants, blueberries boost your immune system and prevent infection. They contribute to eye, heart and brain health, and they prevent and fight cancer. Enjoy frozen berries all year.

7 EGGS Today’s chickens are fed a healthier diet and produce nutritious, 75-calorie eggs that satiate and are good sources of vitamins A, D and E, as well as the B vitamins. Eggs contain mostly polyunsaturated fat, which lowers blood cholesterol. One egg provides 6 grams of high quality protein with all of the 9 essential amino acids. Athletes consider eggs “muscle food.”

8 ALMONDS Another portable power food, 1/4 cup of almonds packs 7 grams of protein, heart healthy monounsaturated fat and antioxidants, all in about 200 calories. Almonds lower cholesterol and help maintain blood sugar.

Eaten whole or in nut butters, almonds are a dieter’s best friend, helping stave off hunger.

Make a smoothie with banana, yogurt, and spinach (which you won’t even taste), or combine oatmeal with chopped nuts, and feel the power of healthy foods as you cruise through your day.

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get beautiful for your big day

By Jenny Muslin Whether it’s your class reunion, a milestone birthday, a wedding, a child’s bar or bat mitzvah, or another important event, you want to look your most radiant. Follow our countdown guide to help get you ready for whatever momentous occasion you have coming up.

 2 Months Prior W hiten your teeth. Get whitening trays from your dentist or start applying whitening strips to make your smile sparkle. (Check out makeitbetter.net/whiteteeth for our review of whitening methods.)

T est your tan. Are you applying a natural self-tanner or being spraytanned by a professional? Make sure you like the shade and effects of your faux bronze.

S hop your closet or hit the stores for a fabulous ensemble. Once you’ve selected what you’re wearing, choose matching jewelry, shoes, a purse and wrap.

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3 Weeks Prior Get a gentle facial.

1-2 Weeks Prior 

 1 Month Prior ritique your skin care regiC men. If your current products are working well, don’t change them now. Keep skin hydrated by applying moisturizer, eyecream and sunscreen daily.

Book appointment for a hair and makeup trial. Bring pictures to show your stylist. If you’re considering fake eyelashes, this is the time to try them out. We love MAC’s falsies.

Test your undergarments to ensure smooth lines.

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G et a haircut or trim to avoid the “just shorn” look. (Remind your spouse or date to book an appointment, too.)

C olor hair or touch up your roots.

Tweeze or wax eyebrows.

B uy hosiery, if needed, including a back-up pair.

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3-4 Days Prior Enjoy a mani-pedi—splurge on the paraffin treatment.

Get your beauty rest and drink lots of water.

 2 Days Prior Spray tan or self-tan.

R econfirm hair and makeup appointment time.

M ake a checklist or timeline of everything you need to do to get ready and work backwards to make sure you’re not rushed or stressed.

Day Of Event F ollow your plan—a fashion or beauty “don’t” is usually a last-minute “improvement.”

Throw key items in your clutch: safety pin, Band-Aid, aspirin, lipstick, lip-gloss, mints, keys, and cell phone.

Have fun and smile!

For a list of area salons to assist with your event preparation, visit makeitbetter.net/the-better-list

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bang buck

get the most

for your bridal

By Meghan Streit

B

ejeweled invitations in elaborate boxes, lavish gardenia centerpieces, mile-high fondant-frosted cakes and designer gowns—there’s no shortage of ways to spend money on a wedding.

Of course you want to give your daughter (or yourself!) a dream wedding. But, you don’t have to drain your savings to throw a party to remember. We asked local wedding planners for insider tips on how to spend wisely.

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Spend on the music

Chuck Share is the owner of Northfield-based Weddings, Inc. His family’s business has been helping North Shore couples plan elegant weddings since 1950. Share says splurge on the reception music with a live band.

“Music is what keeps the party going,” Share says.

“Live music really creates a wonderful feeling, whether you are 80 or 18 years old.”

If your daughter has visions of out-of-touch wedding singers crooning oldies, she’ll be pleasantly surprised. Share says today’s wedding bands cover pop songs, and some even incorporate DJs, giving you the best of both worlds.

Better Location & FOod

Megan Estrada helped arrange hundreds of weddings

in her hotel catering career.

Last year, she launched her own event planning company. Estrada says food and beverages are usually 50% of wedding budgets, so choose your venue wisely. “It’s worth it to spend $5,000 to $10,000 more for a better location that is more beautiful and has higher food quality.” linens & Lighting

Estrada says the biggest mistake brides make is using standard linens. For a bit more money, upgraded linens can completely change the look of the room. You can also up the ambiance with carefully placed lighting and flowers like lilies that draw the eye upward.

“Linens and lighting are surprisingly the things people don’t think about,” Estrada makeitbetter.net

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says. “But, when you put floral, linens and lighting all together, that gives people that ‘wow’ effect.” buy the photo rights

Another tip: Invest in a good photographer. When the big day is over, the thing you’ll take with you is the photos, Estrada says. That’s why she tells clients to choose an experienced photographer and to buy the rights to pictures so you can share with family and friends. what’s important to you?

Catherine Gatto of Chicago’s Birch Design Studio tells couples to let their own interests guide the wedding budget. “If the bride and groom are foodies, we might focus on creating a really 100

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unique menu—maybe having a multi-course dinner, paired with craft beers.”

On the other hand, if the couple is into music, Gatto suggests sinking more money into that aspect of the wedding by hiring multiple performers like a calypso guitarist for cocktails and a big band for dancing. “We want guests to leave the event saying, ‘Wow, that was so that couple,’ ” she says.

Do You Need a Wedding Planner?

A wedding is the biggest and arguably the most important party most of us will ever host. Tremendous effort goes into choosing the ideal venue, creating cohesive menus, hiring florists, musicians and stylists—and making sure

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everything goes off without a hitch on that big day. That’s why many people consider hiring wedding planners.

Taste & Pulling It Together: North Shore event planner Megan Estrada likens hiring wedding coordinators to using interior decorators. “Do you feel competent in your own tastes?” she asks bridesto-be. “A lot of people know what they like, but don’t know how to put it together.”

IY Pressure: There are D plenty of blogs and websites for brides who want a DIY wedding. Chuck Share of Weddings Inc. says access to all of that information is actually one of the most compelling reasons some people hire planners. “The way the world is now, there are so many resources available, it’s overwhelming,” he observes.

Value of Your Time: Estrada says she spends up to 200 hours planning a wedding— and she’s a professional. Many busy couples simply don’t have that time to devote to wedding planning.

Birch Design Studio’s Catherine Gatto says a planner can streamline communications with vendors: “If we get 20 emails from vendors, the bride and groom will only see two.” uest at Your Own G Wedding: Share encourages families, even those who have experience planning charity and social events, to hire a professional for one simple reason: You want to be a guest at your own wedding. “Doing it yourself sometimes turns into a negative,” he says, “because everyone is so stressed out that it takes away from the excitement.”

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dining

the pump room, reborn

By Julie Chernoff

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dining

Photos courtesy of the pump room

F

irst thing you need to know: This is not your parent’s Pump Room. The restaurant’s décor has been updated and transformed in a pretty spectacular way—the huge resinball light fixtures that fill the room are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. The stars of yesteryear have been replaced by luminous globes that float above the diners.

The food has also seen a major update—by consulting chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, no less! It was a muchneeded change to the tired menu of the past.

aioli. If there was pretzel on there, it was in atomic form.

But the squid was tender, if a wee bit greasy.

Much more successful was the Tagliatelle with Caramelized Brussels Sprouts and Pistachio Pesto ($14/$18), available in appetizer- or entrée-sized portions. The house-made fresh pasta was toothsome and delicious. The sprouts were cooked to a turn, caramelized to bring out their sweetness, with a lovely crust; and the pistachio pesto was the perfect foil, oozing with excellent olive oil.

A p p e t i z e r S ta r s

Lunchtime entrees—and I recommend you go at lunch, when the pace and crowd are a bit more laid back, and you can still get a table—run the gamut from substantial sal-

We felt kind of “meh” about the Pretzel-Dusted Calamari ($8), served with room-temperature marinara and strongly flavored mustard

Decadence in the Day t i m e

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The Pump Room at the Public Chicago 1301 N. State Pkwy.Chicago 312-787-3700 publichotels.com

ads to decadent sandwiches, whole wheat flatbreads and some judicious proteins.

The Slow-Cooked Salmon Salad ($18), served on a bed of Bibb lettuce with “market vegetables” (this day, cherry tomatoes and sliced radishes, hardly inspired) and dressed with a thick carrot-miso dressing, was a bit of a disappointment. The salmon was perfectly cooked, but the texture was a little off-putting and it would have benefitted from a crust. The thick dressing was drizzled over the top, but the salad itself was not dressed.

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Perhaps a light citrus vinaigrette on the greens would have improved matters.

We loved the luscious Pump Room Croque Madame ($13), filled with thinly sliced, super moist ham, properly oozy cheese and egg-soaked bread, each half topped with a tiny, perfectly fried quail egg, sunny-side up. I can only imagine the cholesterol count, but wow!

A small frisee salad tossed in a very oniony vinaigrette accompanies the sandwich.

B a k e d Lov e

Desserts, including the ubiquitous homemade doughnuts that seem to be on every menu in Chicago right now, are baked on the premises daily. We ordered the refreshing Crème Fraîche Cheese-

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cake ($7), topped with rubylike blood orange sections and blood orange sorbet, with a side of kumquat marmalade and fennel crisps. The cheesecake was both fluffy and substantial, the slightly sour crème fraîche lightening the cheesecake, perfectly paired with the citrus flavors.

Crème Fraîche Cheesecake

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Service was warm and professional; the booth we were seated in was incredibly comfy and decadently roomy for two. If you’re interested in a serious scene, come in for dinner or a drink, especially on the weekend. But lunch suited me just fine.

dining

Limelight: Food Illuminated

caterers make the event

I

’m going to be honest with you. My enjoyment level at any celebration is directly proportional to the quality of the food. Yes, sure, the company I’m with is also important, but come on now.

Feed me something tasty!

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I’m not going to leave you hanging. I’m happy to share my sources! Here are the caterers I turn to for help with special events, whether it’s a backyard BBQ in Glencoe, a 50th birthday luncheon in Evanston, or a glittering char-

photo by kevin weinstein photography

By Julie Chernoff

dining

ity ball downtown. These professionals make it work no matter the venue… and I lick my plate every time.

Big Ticket Charity Galas

Chairing an intimate gathering of 600 at the Field Museum? You might want to give one of these companies a call.

Calihan Catering They’ll provide service for up to 5,000. Known for their high-powered clients and their willingness to do anything to make an event work. 833 W. Haines, Chicago, 312-587-3553, calihancatering.com Jewell Events Catering For forty years, the choice of high society at all the top galas, known for excellent service.

424 N. Wood St., Chicago, 312829-3663, georgejewell.com

Limelight: Food Illuminated Owned by Wilmette native Rita Gutekanst; known for innovative presentation and delicious food at some of the toniest venues in town. 2000 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, 773-883-3080, limelightcatering.com

Special Celebrations and Corporate Events

Whether it’s a wedding for 200 at the Botanic Garden or a business dinner for 50 at the Kenilworth Club, any of these caterers will give you the service and quality you’re looking for.

An Apple a Day Catering Twenty years of catering on the North Shore means that they know their client. 317 Park Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-2620, anappleadaycatering.com Catering by Michael’s Specializing in outdoor events, they’ll make any event fun. 6203

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Park Ave., Morton Grove, 847966-6555, cateringbymichaels.com J & L Catering Service and food are terrific; their event planners are totally hands-on and make everything run smoothly. 1229 N. North Branch St. #120, Chicago, 312280-7900, jandlcatering.com Pear Tree Catering Extensive chocolate and dessert buffets are a particular specialty, as well as big outdoor events. 950 Woodlands Pkwy., Vernon Hills, 847-459-1100, peartreecatering.com

New Ideas for Entertaining at Home

Want to entertain at home, but tired of the usual trays or potlucks? Any of these choices will provide both conversation starters and fantastic eats.

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Hummingbird Kitchen They’ll park in front of your house in their mobile kitchen and take care of business, whether it’s a plated dinner or food-truck eats. Evanston, 847-475-6680, hummingbirdkitchen.com Homemade Pizza Company HPC will bring their custommade mobile ovens to your home and provide fresh-baked thin crust pizzas, salads and desserts for your party. Multiple locations throughout North Shore, 312564-5610, homemadepizza.com Sunday Dinner With a commitment to sustainable, organic ingredients, they’ll provide restaurant quality food in a home setting. Intimate multi-course dinners for up to 15. Chicago, 773-878-2717, sundaydinnerchicago.com For a list of caterers, visit makeitbetter. net/the-better-list

entertainment

starting over, yet again

By Liz Logan

Internationally acclaimed British film and stage actor Ian McDiarmid performs the title role in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Timon of Athens,the tale of a formerly wealthy man brought low.

Photos by Sarah Lee/The Guardian and Liz Lauren

R

emember that time when you had to start over—in a new city, a new relationship, a new career, motherhood or some other major life transition? Many of us can relate to the characters in this month’s wonderful theater offerings, who are all trying to reinvent themselves in different ways. Whether it’s a struggling recent graduate, a drunk who just got sober or a

rich man turned pauper, these tales are sometimes funny and often painful.

Goodman Theatre’s “The Iceman Cometh” April 21- June 10 170 Dearborn St., Chicago 312-443-3800 | goodmantheatre.org

Nathan Lane. Brian Dennehy. Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O’Neill.

Need we say more? At Har-

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ry Hope’s saloon, a bunch of ragtag drunks and dreamers have gathered to celebrate the arrival of Hickey, a charismatic traveling salesman. But when Hickey shows up sober with a new outlook on life, he tries to fix his old friends’ ways and causes some serious problems. The Chicago SunTimes called this four-hour drama, “as corrosive as rotgut whiskey, as morbidly funny as a funeral gone amok, as hallucinatory as an alcohol-fueled excursion into purgatory.”

Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s “Timon of Athens” April 24 - June 10 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago 312-595-5600 | chicagoshakes.com

We’ve seen a lot of financially powerful men brought low in recent years, but no one can tell this story better than the

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Bard. Timon, a wealthy man who made quick profits and lived prodigally, finds himself in financial freefall when his fortune runs out and his former friends become ruthless creditors. Tony Award winner Ian McDiarmid, who has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company and in the “Star Wars” films, takes on the title role, and CST Artistic Director Barbara Gaines directs.

Marriott Theatre’s “The Pirates of Penzance” April 4 - June 10 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire 847-634-0200 | marriotttheatre.com

You don’t have to leave the suburbs to catch one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s famous comic operas, full of dashing pirates, gorgeous ladies, hilarious policemen and more. Frederic, who was accidentally appren-

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ticed to a pirate rather than a pilot, finds he’s indentured to the kind-hearted pirates for much longer than he thought.

Songs like “Poor Wand’ring One” and “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General” will charm the whole family.

Theater Wit’s “Tigers Be Still” April 24 - May 27 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago 773-975-8150 | theaterwit.org

With so many young people returning home to live with their parents, this dark comedy will ring true for many theatergoers. Sherry, who recently earned her master’s in art therapy, has just gotten her first job and feels like her life is finally getting on track.

Now, she needs her mother to come downstairs, her first

patient to do his art therapy assignments, and someone to catch the damned tiger that just escaped from the zoo!

The New York Times called the play’s 2010 debut “quirkaddicted but heartfelt.”

Lifeline Theatre’s “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed” Through May 6 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago 773-761-4477 | lifelinetheatre.com

Young Wilbur, a naked mole rat, loves to wear clothes and in doing so, he defies social convention. When the teasing at school gets out of control, the pups take their case before the Grand-pah.

This world premiere musical adaptation is a heart-warming lesson on tolerance, based on the 2009 book by Mo Willems, and it’s recommended for kids 5 and up.

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theater guide Broadway in Chicago 800-775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com “Pinkalicious: The Musical,” through May 27 “Fela!,” through April 8 “Jersey Boys,” April 5-June 2 Chicago Shakespeare Theater 312-595-5600 chicagoshakes.com “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” through April 8 “Short Shakespeare! The Taming of the Shrew,” through April 7 “Timon of Athens,” through June 10

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Emerald City Theatre 773-529-2690 emeraldcitytheatre.com “Snow White,” through May 20 “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” through June 17 Goodman Theatre 312-443-3800 goodmantheatre.org “Camino Real,” through April 8 “The Iceman Cometh,” April 21-June 10 Lifeline Theatre: MainStage 773-761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com “Pride and Prejudice,” April 20June 10 KidSeries: “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed,” through May 6

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Lookingglass Theatre 312-337-0665 lookingglasstheatre.org “Rick Bayless in Cascabel,” through April 22 Marriott Theatre 847-634-0200 marriotttheatre.com For Young Audiences: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” through May 12 Northlight Theatre 847-673-6300 | northlight.org “Ten Chimneys,” through April 15

Steppenwolf Theatre 847-335-1650 | steppenwolf.org “Time Stands Still,” through May 13 “The March,” through June 10 “Garage Rep,” through April 8 Theo Ubique Theatre 800-595-4849 | theo-u.com “The Light in the Piazza,” through April 29 Timeline Theatre 773-281-8463 x6 timelinetheatre.com “Enron,” through April 15

Piven Theatre Workshop 847-866-6597 | piventheatre.org “Encores: After the Theater and Other Short Stories,” April 16May 20

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book list

a life celebrations book list

By The Book Bin BABY THE PLACES 1 OH, YOU’LL GO: A BOOK TO

COOKIES AND 2 CUPCAKE, PIE, OH MY!

BE READ IN UTERO

By Dr. Seuss An introduction to the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss to be read to a baby-to-be.

By Karen Tack and Alan Richardson Create special treats to celebrate any occasion.

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entertainment

3 The Wedding Planner

& Organizer

By Mindy Weiss Planning that special day? The must-have binder to get it done.

4 1001 WAYS TO PAY FOR

COLLEGE

By Gen and Kelly Tanabe Not the most romantic subject, but this is definitely a practical book for a family looking forward to a high school graduation.

5 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS NEW BRIDAL EDITION COOKBOOK

By Better Homes and Gardens A perfect gift for any bride!

6 CHICAGO’S CLASSIC RESTAURANTS: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

By Neal Samors and Eric Bronsky Remember the great Chicago restaurants where you cel-

ebrated your most memorable moments with this coffee-table scrapbook.

7 FOREVER FIFTY

By Judith Viorst The best-selling author and poet gives us a witty and beautifully illustrated book of poems that look at what it looks like to be (gulp!) 50.

8 HEAVEN ON EARTH

By Life Magazine Discover great must-see destinations for your retirement in this beautiful book—then add them to your bucket list!

9 THE REALLY USEFUL

GRANDPARENTS BOOK

By Eleo Gordon and Tony Lacey A great book for grandparents who are anxious about planning special time with their grandkids and who want to get involved with them in new ways.

The Book Bin | 1151 Church St. | Northbrook | 847-498-4999

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music by val

By Val Haller of Valslist.com

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irthday, baptism, new baby, anniversary, wedding, graduation, bar or bat mitzvah, sweet sixteen. Life’s milestones call for celebration. And celebrations call for music. The popular use of a video montage adds even more to the party. It shows the fun along the way; it’s a way to say thanks for the memories.

In today’s tech world it’s simple to create your own video. Tools such as iMovie and Pinnacle Studio software make it easy. But there’s often one trip up—finding the right music.

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Valslist.com is launching a new line of playlists this month, “Soundtrack: Music For Your Home Movies.” Each song in our Soundtrack list is handpicked, and chosen specifically for its lyrics and melody.

It will sound great in your video.

The songs are listed by category and linked so you can buy them directly in iTunes.

Themes include anniversaries, love, sports and growing up. Give them a listen.

They’ll enhance your video experience.

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m u si c f or yo u r hom e mov i e s or v i d e o montag e Love: “Different When It Comes to You” by Bruce Cockburn Birthday: “Perfect Day” by Hoku Growing Up: “Did You Ever Look So Nice” by The Samples Anniversary: “One and Only” by Teitur Sports: “The Distance” by Cake Farewell: “Keep Me in Your Heart” by Warren Zevon Parenting: “The Things We’ve

Handed Down” by Marc Cohn Love: “Nothing Fancy” by Dave Barnes Graduation: “Great Big Mind” by Josh Ritter Life: “Wrestle” by Zach Heckendorf Hardship: “A Perfect Day” by Matt Hires Advice: “In Front of the World” by Stephen Kellogg & The Sixers Teen: “Boyfriend” by Big Time Crush Us: “Gotta Have You” by The Weepies

APRIL SH OWS N OT TO MISS: Noel Gallagher’s 1 High Flying Birds at the Riviera (take your teen!)

Van Halen at Allstate 1 Arena (get tickets for dad) Gotye at Park West 3 (date night) Lost In The Trees at 4 SPACE (girls’ night out) apr

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Trevor Hall at SPACE 5 (A Valslist favorite—for adults or teens) Pure Prairie League at 12 SPACE (Boomers must see) Death Cab for Cutie at 16 The Chicago Theatre (will be a great show) The Fray at the Riviera 17 (new album out now!) apr

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make a difference

better makers and their impact

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Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Wine Auction 2012 Civic Opera House February 10, 2012 Attendees: 480 $1.8 million raised

(Shown in photos): (1) Women’s Board president Anne Reyes of Lake Forest, Honored Guest Richard Geoffroy, chef de cave, Dom Pérignon, and Wine

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Photos of Shirley Ryan and Richard Geoffroy; Anne Reyes, Richard Geoffroy and Susan B. Noyes, by Dan Rest; all other benefits photos by Cheri Eisenberg. Impact photo by Robert Kusel

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Auction chairman Susan B. Noyes; (2) Cate and Rick Waddell of Wilmette. Mr. Waddell is president and CEO of Northern Trust Co., presenting sponsor for Wine Auction 2012; (3) Renée and Lester Crown of Wilmette, center, with Lyric general director Anthony Freud (right) and his partner, Colin Ure (left); (4) Lester and Becky Knight of Winnetka (left and right), with renowned wildlife photographer Sue Flood (center). Mrs. Knight is a Women’s Board member and Wine Auction committee member; (5) A scene from the Lyric Opera’s recent production of “Show Boat.” Make It Better Founder and President Susan Blankenbaker Noyes of Wilmette was the chairman of this event, which raised unprecedented support for the worldrenowned opera company.

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Shown in photos: (1) Steve and Lois Eisen of Winnetka; (2) Paula Crown, Anne Kaplan of Highland Park, and Cari Sacks of Highland Park; (3) The MCA Chicago, one of the nation’s largest facilities devoted to the art of our time. Funds raised support the museum’s programming; (4) Sally Kovler, Amy Bluhm of Winnetka.

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Benefit photos by Robert Carl; Impact photo by Dan Baldwin/MCA Chicago

Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) artEdge 2012 “George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic” MCA, Chicago February 4, 2012 Attendees: 600 $1 million+ raised

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Benefit photos courtesy of the Junior Council of Children’s Memorial Hospital; Impact photo courtesy of Children’s Memorial Hospital

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The Junior Council of Children’s Memorial Hospital’s 24th Annual Snowball Union Station, Chicago February 4, 2012 Attendees: 1,600 $125,000 raised Shown in photos: (1) President Courtney Collins, Snowball Director Diana Arand and other members of the Junior Council Executive Board present a $125,000 check to Dr. Yogev.

Left to right: Tom Morgan, cosocial chair; Cole Kopacek, development chair; Colleen Dwyer, co-social chair; George Fisher, co-corporate sponsorship chair; Emily Reidy, secretary; Dr. Yogev;

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Reid Frankenberg, new member chair; Christina Vottero, fundraising chair; Kate Frankenberg, programming chair; Diana Arand; Meghan McCambridge, marketing chair; Courtney Collins; and Matt Ryan, co-corporate sponsorship chair; (2) Courtney Collins and Diana Arand; (3) Funds raised at this event support the Dr. Yogev Pediatric and Adolescent AIDS and HIV programs at Children’s Memorial Hospital.

Make It Better was the Media Sponsor of this event makeitbetter.net

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Urban Initiatives’ 6th Annual Soccer Ball River East Art Center, Chicago January 27, 2012 Attendees: 750 $252,000 raised Shown in photos: (1) Executive Director Daniel Isherwood, Mentor Coach Award Winner

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Thomas Durr, Soccer Ball Award Winner Julian Posada, and Executive Director Jim Dowerz; (2) Stacy Stutz, Paula Armstrong, Katy Reichert and M.E. Girgenti of Wilmette; (3) Funds raised at this event support Urban Initiatives in sustaining and expanding their health and educational programming for children in lowincome neighborhoods.

All photos courtesy of Urban Initiatives

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Winnetka Community Nursery School’s Luau Skokie Country Club February 4, 2012 Attendees: 115 $30,000 raised Shown in photos: (1) Jane McCoy with K.C. Simon and Liz Smylie, co-VPs of Fundraising for Winnetka Community Nursery School, and Katy Furton.

All are Winnetka residents; (2) Debbie Kruse, Diane Trench and Natalie Todd, all of Winnetka; (3) Ross and Cindy Collins, co-chair Dominique Birchmeier, and Bradley Kruse , all of Winnetka; (4) Winnetka Community Nursery School. All funds raised from the event support capitol improvements at the school and professional development for its teachers.

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boutique vendors or help with ticket sales. A large portion of the proceeds are donated each year to local organizations. Contact Denise Swanson, public relations co-chair of the Woman’s Club of Wilmette, at the phone number above.

By Sharon Krone and Sandra Miller Volunteer for the Wilmette Woman’s Club’s Antiques Show and Holiday Boutique Woman’s Club of Wilmette 930 Greenleaf Ave. | Wilmette 847-612-8357 womansclubofwilmette.org It’s not too early! Volunteers needed the first weekend of December for the club’s annual antiques show and holiday boutique. Organize and run food sales, decorate the club, recruit

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Staff an Event to Support the Evanston Ecology Center Evanston Environmental Association (EEA) 2024 McCormick Blvd.

Evanston | 847-448-8256 evanstonenvironment.org Volunteer for a major new springtime event. The first-ever Evanston Green Ball will take place in late May, and all proceeds will benefit the Evanston Environmental Association. The EEA is a nonprofit that supports the Evanston Ecology Center. For more information, contact Claire Alden at the Ecology Center at the phone number above.

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ď ° Share Your Knowledge with Students in a Highwood After-School Program Nuestro Center of Family Service: Prevention, Education & Counseling 742 Sheridan Rd. | Highwood 847-432-4981, ext.12 famservice.org Volunteers, high school age or older, needed for the after-school program at the Nuestro Center of Family Service. Open to children between first and eighth grades, the program includes a five-day-a-week homework club, recreational and mentoring activities, and field trips.

Complete the application on the website and return it to Elsi Rodriguez at erodriguez@fsslc.org, or mail to Family Service, 777 Central Ave., Suite 17, Highland Park, IL 60035.

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Donate Your Daughter’s Party Dresses to a Charity Boutique  The Party Dress Project 847-863-8608 partydressproject.org The Party Dress Project is looking for donations of clean, gently worn, teenage size, short party dresses. The Party Dress Project collects dresses throughout the year, and holds a one-day boutique every fall to resell the dresses at only $25 each. Proceeds

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A Magnet School Seeks Silent Auction Donations Dr. Bessie Rhodes Magnet School of Global Studies (formerly Timber Ridge Elem.)

3701 Davis St. | Skokie 847-859-8400 rhodesmagnet.district65.net

Rhodes Magnet School is looking for donations to their silent auction at their annual “Reach for Rhodes” Benefit, Saturday, April 21. Items may include dining/theater/retail certificates or a donated activity appropriate for children ages 5 to 13.

Rhodes is a public K-8 school equipping students to become good global citizens. Contact Dana Teeter at danateeter@ gmail.com or Caroline Benson at bc.benson@sbcglobal.net.

photo courtesy of the party dress project

from the boutique are donated to a different charity every year.

To make a donation or for more information, call 847-863-8608 or visit partydressproject.org.

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additional information call or email information@uscmaf.org.

IMPROVE LIVES OF CHILDREN SUFFERING FROM BIRTH DEFECTS U.S. Children’s Medical Assistance Fund, Inc. P.O. Box 7213 | Deerfield, IL 60015 | 847-948-7233 | uscmaf.org Contribute financial support for corrective treatment for American children who are disfigured as a result of birth defects, illnesses and accidents, including acts of violence. Founded by Deerfield resident and college junior Andrea Sterenstein, CMAF improves the lives and enhances the selfesteem of children up to age 18 from low- to moderate-income families. Donations and purchases from our online shop, of any amount, will help create a brighter world for children. Donations may be send to the address above. For

SUPPORT CLEAN WATER ď ą Water 1st International 1904 Third Ave., Suite 1012 Seattle, WA 773-320-2093 | water1st.org Water 1st International held their inaugural fundraiser in Chicago

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this March. They welcome additional contributions to help the world’s poorest communities implement clean water projects.

Donations to help Water 1st in Ethiopia, Bangladesh, India, and Honduras, can be made on their website. For information about assisting with future Chicago events, contact Kimberly Schiller at 773-320-2093 or info@water 1st.org.

SHOP FABULOUS FINDS Saints Faith, Hope and Charity’s Women’s Guild 191 Linden St. | Winnetka 847-446-7646 faithhope.org/womens.htm Enjoy discounts and door prizes on April 26, at participating Winnetka stores during “Fabulous Finds: A Day on the Town to Shop and Save” and support the fundraising efforts of

the Women’s Guild of Saints Faith, Hope and Charity Parish.

Any questions about the event may be directed to Beth Healy at bethhealy@sbcglobal.net or 847-331-4853.

Midwest Young Artists 878 Lyster Rd., | Highwood, IL 60040 | 847-926-9898 mya.org Donate to MYA and ensure that music programs are available to all young people, without regard to their financial situation. A donation to MYA is also an investment in the future of the arts. To experience that future first-hand, attend the orchestra concerts on April 29 at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall in Evanston. Donations may be made out to Midwest Young Artists and mailed to the address above. For more information, go to mya.org.

For more ways to give back to your community, visit makeitbetter.net/make-a-difference

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local treasure

gimme shelter: heather’s house

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t’s a Wednesday morning in Des Plaines, and a merry group of moms, babies and volunteer baby holders gathers in a cozy living room.

This scene is courtesy of Heather’s House, run by Aid for Women and located on the Maryville Academy campus. Named for the wife of Aid for Women founder Deacon Tom Bresler, Heather’s House opened in July with four residents, all expectant mothers in need of shelter, and their five children.

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Places that offer pregnant women shelter and security are few and far between. According to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, in 2004, there were nearly 16,500 homeless female youth in Illinois, aged 1221—68% of whom were pregnant. However, in 2005, there were only 212 shelter beds in the entire state for homeless youth with children—meeting only 1.8% of the overall need.

“Despite some of the difficult backgrounds our girls come from, they are very

Photos courtesy of heather’s house

By Laura Tiebert

local treasure

bright and are going to be wonderful, loving and independent mothers,” says Bonnie Ryan, program director.

The women come to Aid for Women through facilities in Chicago and Berwyn that offer pregnancy tests and counseling. While some may not agree with the politics (Aid for Women offers unplanned pregnancy and abortion alternatives), there is no doubt that the need for housing for pregnant women is great.

“I went for a free pregnancy test and left with guidance, hope, and help,” says Janessa Lott, 19. “One of the counselors at Aid for Women will always have a place in my heart.

She became my hand to hold, my shoulder to cry on, my encourager, and my angel.”

The residents stay for two years, enough time to break

the cycle of poverty and start a new life. The key is learning life skills and getting an education. Oakton Community College, just down the road from the Maryville Campus where Heather’s House is located, is the women’s school of choice. Most are studying for jobs in health care.

“Despite all the pain I’ve experienced in my short time on this earth, I’ve been blessed to overcome it all,” Lott says.

“I have days when I feel as if I’m not ready for this new journey, but fear will not conquer my heart or my spirit.”

meet the author Laura Tiebert, Wilmette When Laura and Andy married, their first dance was Ella Fitzgerald’s “The Nearness of You.” They just celebrated 10 years of nearness!

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Photos by Laurie Levitt, Soben Studios; Amy Lantz, Dragonfly Studios; makeitbetter.net Laura Templin Photography; Naomi Epstein Photography.

Jump with joy and celebrate the day— today and every day.

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