SLM-2-1-2014

Suburban Life

FEBRUARY 2014

VGIFTS

MAGAZINE

alentine

to warm the heart PAGE 30

PASSION

BEYOND PLAYING Wheaton Yamaha instills love of music in young students PAGE 20

STAGE

life

Diana Martinez leads the charge at the MAC PAGE 6

and better than ever!

TOUCH

�er HEART

WITH A PANDORA

“…the cultural center for greater DuPage county” – Daily Herald

GIFT SET

*

Available starting January 15

Featuring our new state-of-the-art Performance Hall with comfortable seats, enhanced acoustics, and much more!

Love Locket $ 150

GRAND OPENING 2014 SEASON ARTIST HIGHLIGHTS

You & Me $ 125

MAC GRAND OPENING and MAC Madness Benefit

KEB’MO’

Kurt

Sparkle of Love $ 200

David

ELLING

SEDARIS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 8 P.M. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 4 P.M.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 7 P.M.

Jim

BELUSHI

INTRODUCING PANDORA’S 2014 VALENTINE’S DAY COLLECTION.

and the Board of Comedy Madeleine

PEYROUX

SUNDAY, APRIL 6, 7 P.M.

The Ultimate Rebel – Ludwig Van!

NEW PHILHARMONIC SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 8 P.M. SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 3 P.M.

SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2014 6 p.m. Benefit Performance and Party 9:30 p.m. – Show Only

FOR TICKETS AND COMPLETE SEASON

McAninch Arts Center College of DuPage 425 Fawell Boulevard Glen Ellyn, IL TICKETS: 630.942.4000

AtTheMAC.org /AtTheMAC /AtTheMAC /McAninchArtsCenter

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 8 P.M.

Experience ��:

PROMENADE BOLINGBROOK

FINE DINING

Steps away from the MAC. $35 Prix-fixe menu Wed.–Sun.

PILOBOLUS

www.jewelrybolingbrookchicago.com OPENING FEBRUARY 2014

PANDORA Valentine’s Day gift sets starting at $125.* *While supplies last. See store for details.

This month, discover your passion.

The business world has changed a lot in the last ten years. Some industries have grown, others have faltered, and new innovations in science and technology have set the stage for unique career opportunities...if you’re ready to take the leap.

In the February issue of Suburban Life Magazine, we talk with local entrepreneurs, executives and educators about work and career, and what it takes to keep it all together.

We meet Diana Martinez, whose longstanding career in the Chicago area arts and entertainment industry has taken her to Pheasant Run, the Parmount Arts Center, and the Second City stage. Now, she’s at the helm of the grandly revamped MacAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage.

When you aren’t busy taking care of that career, it may be time to take extra care of yourself.

Local experts weigh in on everything from memory enhancement and cardiovascular heath to winter skin care, and their tips will leave you ready and refreshed to take on any challenge.

Finally, it’s Valentine’s Day this month, and we have great local gifts, whether it’s for your sweetheart, a cherished family member, or a fun-loving friend.

February is fabulous and the opportunities abound right here, in your communities.

Suburban Life

Home & Lifestyle

MAGAZINE

6 STAGE LIFE | A longtime maven of arts and entertainment, Glen Ellyn’s Diana Martinez comes home to the new McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage .

8 NURSING SEEKS NEW MARKET | Elmhurst College introduces a graduate nursing program for the non-medical professional.

9 GRADUATING GROWN UPS | At Northwood University, seamless schedules and credit for experience keep adult-centered programs appealing to older students.

Suburban Life Magazine Published by Shaw Media 1101 W. 31st Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 Phone: 630-368-1100 suburbanlifemagazine@shawmedia.com

Health & Fitness

Thanks for reading -

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

We chat with fashionista-turned-boutique owner Ela Czupta, a young woman who channeled her love for fashion into a burgeoning career with a strong online following and a successful Lemont retail store.

12 PUT A WINNING SMILE ON YOUR RESUME | Don’t distract your potential employer with a less than bright smile. A healthy grin could mean the difference in your interviewing success.

16 TOTAL RECALL | There are warning signs relating to memory loss. Learn what they are, and whether a medical assessment is a necessary next step.

18 HEART OF THE MATTER | We talk with the owner of Jazzercise Glen Ellyn, one of the longest-running programs in cardio fitness, about how the industry has evolved and what you need to know about keeping a healthy heart.

Publisher Tom Shaw jtshaw@shawmedia.com Advertising Bill Korbel 630-427-6230 bkorbel@shawmedia.com Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

And we profile a new graduate program for nursing at Elmhurst College, which is targeting those outside the medical field who want to make a change into this high-growth field.

Family in Focus

10

Designer Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com on the

COVER

Diana Martinez has a long career leading some of the area's most popular theaters. Now she takes the lead at the MacAnich Arts Center, where $400 million in renovations position College of DuPage in the spotlight on the suburban stage.

Page 6.

Photo by JASON ADRIAN PHOTOGRAPHY Salon services by MARIO TRICOCI SALON AND DAY SPAS, Stylist-Maria, Yorktown Makeup-Katherine, Oak Brook Photo inset by JEFF KRAGE

4 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Inside

Account Executive Kathleen Sergent 630-427-6208 ksergent@shawmedia.com

FASHION FORWARD

Correspondents Allison Horne, Michelle Stien, Yvonne Benson, Stephanie Kohl, Elizabeth Harmon

Lemont fashionista Ela Czupta builds on blogging fame to create boutique success.

Photographers Jeff Krage, Joe Perez, Jason Adrian Photography

Suburban Life Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Suburban Life Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Photo by Jason Adrian Photography

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

20 MUSICAL YOUTH | At Wheaton Yamaha Music School, youngsters are introduced to musicianship through a variety of means, fostering a love of music to last a lifetime.

24 THE XBOX FACTOR | Family columnist Michele Stien shares the good, the bad and the ugly parts of father-son video gameplay.

Dining & Entertaining 28 WINE COLUMN | White Golds. Chardonay takes its place at the table again.

29 THE MYSTIQUE OF MOLE’ | Blending traditional recipes with modern appeal, Mexican restaurants from the casual to the fine discuss the nation’s most famed dish, and why it’s okay to change it.

30 EDITOR’S CHOICE-VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS | Looking for the perfect item to help you say just how you feel? Here’s a list of our faves, for all the sweethearts in your life.

Fashion & Beauty 32 FACE THE WINTER WITH PROPER SKIN CARE Bundle up for the cold winter air, but don’t forget the most important layer, your skin.

Out & About 34 ARTIST SHOWCASE | Margaret Cosper of Hinsdale shares her piece "Young Man in Blue".

37 CALENDAR | Movie screenings and lectures, live music and Valentine’s Day events fill the calendar this month, across the county.

38 SOCIAL LIFE | Elmhurst Art Museum hosted an opening reception for its first exhibit of 2014, "SpotLight".

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 5

HOME & LIFESTYLE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

Photos by Jason Adrian Photography

STAGE LIFE Theater maven Diana Martinez comes home to the new McAninch Arts Center

By ELIZABETH HARMON

6 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Creativity, a strong work ethic and fearless attitude have helped Glen Ellyn’s Diana Martinez build a career as a theatrical executive. Leading the charge over the years at such acclaimed area venues as Pheasant Run, the Paramount Arts Center, and Second City, Martinez now has a front row seat as director of the newly revamped McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage. Some $400 million in expansion and renovation have the MAC poised to become a stage of choice in the suburbs, offering everything from comedy and stage plays to acoustic concerts to an outdoor Ravinia-style music experience.

It has been Martinez’s creativity and flat out moxie that have helped build her success.

Chicago choreographer Brenda Didier, who worked with Martinez when she was a producer and director at the Pheasant Run

Theater in St. Charles, recalls a time her colleague’s quick thinking saved the day.

“It was during a production of ‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,’ and one of the actresses became ill at the last minute.

Diana says, ‘who knows this show better than me?’” Didier recalls.

She changed the character from an AfricanAmerican woman to a Latina and went onstage in the role herself. “It was definitely quick thinking under fire and she made it work,” says Didier.

The MAC is a sort of homecoming for Martinez, whose childhood in Glen Ellyn sowed the seeds for her future success.

Growing up, she often spent time in her mom’s downtown Glen Ellyn beauty shop, developing her work ethic.

“My sisters and I all worked as shampoo girls and learned to do hair. When I went away to college, I put a sign on my dorm room door, and did haircuts for five dollars. It was my spending money all through school,” she says.

When she wasn’t helping her mother, she often went to the nearby Glen Art Theater m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

to watch children’s classics such as ChittyChitty Bang-Bang, Pippy Longstocking and Mary Poppins. “I watched them over and over, committing them to memory. That could be when I first fell in love with theater,” she says.

She was cast in a park district production of The Velveteen Rabbit, and from then on, was hooked.

“Not only did I love performing, but also the camaraderie that develops during a production.

It’s very unique,” she says.

At Glenbard West High School, Martinez joined the Before Broadway Players under the direction of teacher Doug Quinn and developed an interest in stage management. At the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign she majored in theater management and directing. After graduation, she intended to join Quinn, who was then working at Pheasant Run, but days before she was to start, Quinn suddenly died.

Beyond the loss of a good friend, Martinez also found herself with no mentor and no job.

Reluctantly, she took a position with a retail corporation, while reconnecting with high school and college friends to stage a production of A Chorus Line at the Glen Ellyn Park District.

She invited the Pheasant Run Theater’s general manager to see it. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

He loved the show, but was still hesitant to hire a recent college graduate as a director, so Martinez offered to direct a show for free. “I said if it was successful, we would split the profit,” she recalls.

The successful show earned more than profit for Martinez. “They offered me a season and I was there for the next thirteen years,” she says.

Working at Pheasant Run not only honed her creativity, but also her business savvy. “Theater is a business unlike any other, because it’s so expensive up front. You have huge costs before you sell a single ticket. You can have the best show in the world, but if you don’t know how to sell tickets and promote it, it’s going to be over quickly,” she says.

Following her tenure at Pheasant Run, she became executive director for the Paramount Arts Center in Aurora. “Working with the board, we decided to step things up, going to 40 big shows a year,” she says.

The risk paid off in increased visibility, doubled ticket sales, and eventually, a successful fundraiser to build a new lobby and renovate the theater’s backstage.

After Paramount, she joined Second City as president, and in 2012, launched a theater

“You can have the best show in the world, but if you don’t know how to sell tickets and promote it, it’s going to be over quickly.”

-Diana Martinez, director of the MAC at College of DuPage consulting business. In the summer of 2013, she was working on projects with several Chicago theater companies, and Broadway in Chicago, when she was contacted about the position with the McAninch Arts Center.

Martinez is excited about the potential of the newly-renovated MAC, as well as its unique dual role as a community arts center and educational facility. It will celebrate its Grand Opening March 8, with a fundraising gala featuring Jim Belushi and the Chicago Board of Comedy, followed by a 9:30 p.m. show that is open to the public.

Didier, who has known Martinez since their college days, has no doubt she’ll be successful.

“Not only is she business-minded, she’s also creative, which is really a rare mix,” Didier says.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 7

High-demand degree HOME & LIFESTYLE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

Busy adults need to make the most of their time. Work and family commitments keep down time to a minimum, so taking on the additional load of a college student is a big decision. They need a program that makes the most of their time. Courses that are directly applicable to the career, and partnerships with students who take their college experience seriously, and have similar goals.

Nursing master’s program aimed at those new to the field

By STEPHANIE KOHL

T

his fall, Elmhurst College will host the first session of its Nursing Master’s Entry program.

Designed specifically for students with baccalaureate degrees outside of nursing who want to transition into the field, the program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and the clinical nurse leader certification exam.

“In this economy, nursing is still a career that’s in demand,” says Julie Hoff, associate professor and director of the Deicke Center for Nursing Education at Elmhurst College, adding that beyond 2020, it is expected there will be a shortage of nurses. “We have to be thinking about the future.”

We’re leveraging someone’s baccalaureate education and pushing them forward,”

-Julie Hoff, associate professor and director of the Deicke Center for Nursing Education at Elmhurst College

The nursing master’s entry program at Elmhurst is the only program of its kind in the suburbs of Chicago and is designed specifically for students with baccalaureate degrees outside of nursing who want to transition into the field.

The nursing master’s entry program is a full-time program, completed in two years. It is conducted in a hybrid format consisting of on-campus and online learning, with simulation laboratory time and clinical time.

“What we’re doing… We’re leveraging someone’s baccalaureate education and pushing them forward,” Hoff says.

Hoff says the students in the program will tend to be a different type of student than a traditional student, as most will have already attained undergraduate degrees in other fields and likely spent at least a couple of years in the workforce.

She says demand for the program has been high.

The first year of study focuses on pre-nursing licensure courses, and during the second year, student’s transition into the clinical nurse leader role. The program heavily emphasizes the use of collaboration and teamwork in a healthcare setting.

The first class of the program will include 16 students and the goal is to increase it to 24 students for the second class of the program.

She says the unique program has required the department to create a whole new curriculum and courses as it is teaching everything from novice clinical skills to advanced leadership skills. Since these students already have experience in other fields and higher education, they are a different type of student.

Adult models take worry out of college experience

By Stephanie Kohl

The Glen Ellyn Adult Degree Program Center offers a variety of degrees in both hybrid (a blend of face-to-face and online) and completely online formats. Classes are designed in partnership with industry specialists and advisory boards and are taught by experts who are active in the business world.

Along with its Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management and Marketing, the Glen Ellyn campus also offers

“With classes in eight-week and weekend formats, students can complete two or more courses in the same 16-weeks it takes traditional students to complete one class,” she says. Students also have the opportunity to earn credit for work and military experience. One student earned 27 credits for her prior work experience, Rosen said. “This made a tremendous impact on the quality of her life by enabling her to complete her degree faster and with substantial savings on top of it.”

NEW CAREER IN 2014!

Earn your Bachelor of Business Administration through the Adult Degree Program of Northwood University.

Contact Northwood University today to complete your Bachelor

For more information on the Nursing Master’s Entry program, visit www.elmhurst.edu/nme.

NEW ONLINE PROGRAMS n Aftermarket Management

of Business Administration degree. Northwood University will

n Automotive Marketing & Management

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LOCATION Near where you live and work.

FLEXIBILITY Day, evening, weekend, and online courses.

VALUE A Prior Learning Assessment may save time and money.

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“Northwood offers evening, weekend or online formats, as well as innovative options like our ‘3+1’ degree program, which allows students the opportunity to complete three years of coursework at partnership institutions like College of DuPage and Harper College,

The Northwood University student generally arrives with prior college credits from another university or community college. Many have been out of college for a while or took a break to focus on their career and family. They also have some students who are just beginning their university education.

seven fully online degree programs including aftermarket management, automotive marketing management, health care management, marketing, entrepreneurship, management and finance as well as an online Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership.

Northwood students work with one advisor from application all the way to graduation, assisting them with registration, academic advising, financial aid and ordering books.

NEW YOU.

“We hope these are the future leaders in nursing,” Hoff says. “… It’s really an exciting time for nursing. It is the largest healthcare workforce in the country.”

8 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

With that in mind, Northwood University’s DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn location offers an Adult Degree Program, which gives students the opportunity to pursue their education while maintaining the flexibility they need to balance family, work and school.

before completing their final year at Northwood University,” said Ann Marie Rosen, regional development manager.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

NOW ENROLLING! 800.622.9000 | www.northwood.edu/adults 1200 Roosevelt Road, Suite #140 Glen Ellyn

To discuss program options, financing, and next steps in the application process, contact Northwood University and schedule an appointment right away!

n Marketing (also on site)

ADULT DEGREE PROGRAM NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 9

FASHION forward HOME & LIFESTYLE

Young entrepreneur makes her statement

By ELIZABETH HARMON

“If I try to be like him, who will be like me?”

The proverb on Generation Bliss Boutique’s website describes a person not afraid to do things a bit differently. Not only does it apply to the store’s customers, but also to the owner, Ela Czupta.

to be aware of trends, but I’m also a big fan of good basics layered with accessories. It can be glitzy and glam one day and street chic the next.

It’s always evolving.”

An Oak Lawn native, Czupta became interested in fashion at a young age. She calls her mother, Margaret, her earliest inspiration. “She’s a very well put together woman,” she says.

At 25, Czupta is a blogger and entrepreneur who has turned her lifetime love of fashion into a career. Her Lemont boutique carries unique clothes and accessories that blend classic looks and European street styles.

As a child she donned her mother’s dresses and high heels. Eventually playing dress-up gave way to pouring over fashion magazines and turning what she saw into distinctive looks.

“When I choose clothes (for the boutique), I’m shopping for what I like,” she says. “It’s important

The family moved to Lemont about the time Czupta started high school, and after graduating

from Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, she studied broadcast journalism at Chicago’s Columbia College. But when her dream of becoming a news anchor collided with the reality of taking a job far from home, she began to rethink her plans.

“You break into that field by going to a small market, and working your way up. I was a city girl, close to my family and the offers I was getting were from small towns in the South. My heart really wasn’t in it,” she says.

Working for a fashion magazine seemed like an

“Anything that sparkled fascinated me,” she says.

HOME & LIFESTYLE

obvious choice, but Czupta needed a way to showcase her writing. Inspiration hit one day as she surfed through fashion blogs.

“These were just regular people posing in outfits they liked and writing about them. I thought, ‘I could do this.”

If you haven’t been to Treasure House lately, here are just a few of the items you’ve missed:

Czupta launched the Generation Bliss blog in January 2011, and within a few months, readers were clamoring for fashion advice and personal shopping requests. In June 2012, she expanded her blog into an online boutique, and one year ago, opened her shop.

As a business owner, she works constantly.

In addition to the store, she still blogs and maintains the store’s social media, website and lookbook, an online style guide for the store’s clothes which features her sister and brothers as models. Czupta’s five-year goals including launching her own Generation Bliss label.

Her customers come in all ages, and while a few are surprised by Czupta’s youth, she feels proud to have accomplished so much in a short time.

“Like any business, I’ve had my challenges,” she says, “but I’ve learned to keep a positive attitude, be patient and persistent.”

Give back to your com munity by shopping a t and/or do nating to th Treasure H e ouse, where all proceed benefit Me s tropolitan Family Serv providing ices, mental hea lth, educati senior care on, and youth mentoring to the poor of Du page Coun ty.

Green and Waterford Crystal, Tiffany Orange tag s on sale thro jewelry, Hunter boots, Rag and ughout the month of February Bone clothing, Dooney and !

Bourke handbags, Baccarat Crystal, Seven for all Mankind jeans, Uggs, Dept. 56 Christmas Village, vintage Victrola, Evans mink coats, Drexel leather sofa, Belleek China, etc.

The Treasure House A non profit resale shop

630-469-6907

497 Pennsylvania Ave. Glen Ellyn, IL

Monday - Saturday 10-4, Thursdays until 8 pm

Check us out at http://treasurehouseresale.blogspot.com

DESIGN REIGNS.

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Photos by Jason Adrian Photography

10 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

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Visit us at www.lamantia.com or call us at 708.387.9900 today!

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 11

HEALTH & FITNESS

Put that winning smile

BACK ON YOUR RESUME You may not realize it, but a healthy smile can go a long way in securing a successful career. Regardless of the type of work you do, maintaining your teeth and gums can even be the difference between getting a promotion or being stuck in a rut.

Anyone in sales will tell you the importance of a winning smile. When your job dictates close, face-to-face contact with potential clients, certain aspects of your smile really need to shine.

First, and foremost…odor. If you have bad breath, you can kiss that sale goodbye. Bad breath odor can come from a multitude of places, the back of your tongue, the pockets in your gums, even your tonsils.

Good hygiene is the first line of defense. Make sure you’re brushing a minimum of twice a day, sneak in that lunch time brushing if you can.

Don’t neglect your tongue! A large number of odor causing bacteria reside on the back of the tongue, you can brush your tongue with your regular toothbrush, or if you feel like you’re going to gag, you can buy a tongue scraper that will thoroughly clean your tongue with less discomfort. Flossing also is essential, as the pockets between your teeth are holding particles of food and bacteria. Finally, some people have deep crypts in their tonsils, these hidden areas can hold food and bacteria as well, although they

are harder to clean, and may require professional attention from a dentist or an ear/nose/throat doctor.

Besides odor, minor cosmetic issues can make a huge difference in a career. Have you ever thought someone has a nice smile only to notice one little eye sore that caught your attention?

Maybe a chipped tooth, a black spot, or a crown with a gray line at the top. These seemingly minor tooth problems become the center of attention when a person smiles. When giving an important presentation at work, the last thing you want people to look at is your teeth! Most of the time these problems are very easy to correct. Chipped teeth can be corrected typically in one visit with a composite bonding material. A black spot is usually a sign of decay, and can be corrected with a filling. Older crowns made from older materials like base metals or gold can be replaced with all-porcelain materials to achieve a more natural look.

Your teeth should not be the one factor that holds you back from a successful career.

Many people don’t realize how much teeth affect speech. Problems with your front teeth can affect your F and V sounds as well as create lisping or whistling. These all are distractions that no one wants to deal with in a close work environment.

Oftentimes, people assume replacing missing teeth will be painful or expensive, so they avoid

Unique individuals who provide specialized medical services

Dr. Mike DeCubellis Main Street Chiropractic and Wellness Center

even consulting their dentist on the issue. I have many patients who tell me they feel just fine without their teeth and they’ve lived without them for years. I always do my best to advise these patients on how much their quality of life will be affected by replacing their missing teeth.

Once I explain that we have options for every budget, from partial dentures, to fixed bridges to implants, people begin to warm up to the idea. When the work is done, patients are always surprised at how much the new teeth have affected their daily life.

Your teeth should not be the one factor that holds you back from a successful career. Take a moment to assess your smile and see if there are any issues that could use a little attention.

Schedule with your dentist, talk to them openly about your concerns and come up with a plan to eliminate any trouble spots. If you’re comfortable with your smile, your confidence will show through. And that can mean the difference between succeeding in life or falling short of your aspirations.

Saqib H. Mohajir DMD, FADIA

Dr. Mohajir is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society and is a Fellow of the American Dental Implant Association. He maintains a private practice in Lemont, Illinois.

Pinewood Dental

15884 W. 127TH ST., STE. D | LEMONT, IL | (708) 364-0641 | WWW.PINEWOODDENTAL.COM

12 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

P ro f e s s i o n a l M e d i c a l P R O F I L E

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

“Our goal is to correct the issue causing your pain, so you won’t be dealing with the same issue in the future.”

You’re suffering from the same chronic pain again.

Or your back acts up after playing with the kids or a long day at work. Your pain is sharp and piercing when you move – or it’s a low, dull throb. This isn’t normal aging.

Fortunately, there’s no reason to suffer neck, back or joint pain.

Main Street Chiropractic offers a spectrum of services to address your individual needs. Situated above the popular Ballydoyle Irish Restaurant in downtown Downers Grove, Main Street Chiropractic offers an avenue of therapeutic treatments.

“We treat the problem, not just the symptoms,” says Dr. Mike DeCubellis. What exactly does that mean? You might be experiencing pain in your back or neck. The doctor and his professional staff treat the underlying cause, so the symptoms not only go away, but never come back.

Patients come to Main Street Chiropractic for a variety of reasons; issues associated with posture, neck and back pain, or an injury that never healed properly.

And patient ages vary greatly as well. Dr. DeCubellis has noticed a startling trend in the last few years.

“Children are putting their spines under much more stress today. With the popularity of Gameboys, Ipads, Smartphones and increasingly heavy backpacks, they are slowing changing the normal biomechanics of their spine leading to problems most only have to worry about in their later years. I should not see a 15 year old with a complete loss of curvature and degeneration.”

Main Street Chiropractic’s integrated range of treatments includes chiropractic adjustments, massage,

strength training and physio-therapies such as electrical stimulation or cold laser. Rehab therapy also helps restore strength to weakened muscles. Each aspect of therapy is designed to address your specific needs. For example, for those experiencing pain, massage therapy helps reduce tension and breakdown scar tissue, improving range of motion.

Before any patient is treated, they will always be informed of how much insurance will cover and be apprised of the cost, if any, they would be incurred. A doctor will evaluate you, and you’ll be presented with a treatment plan that’s based on your unique condition.

Dr. DeCubellis and his team also work alongside medical doctors such as neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons.

This thorough, integrated approach leads to positive outcomes for patients. Says Dr. DeCubellis: “Our goal is to correct the issue causing your pain, so you won’t be dealing with the same issue in the future.”

Main Street Chiropractic and Wellness Center 5157 Main St., Suite 200 Downers Grove, IL 60515 (630) 326-4197 www.mainstchiropractic.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

The Post-Holiday Workout Choose moderate activity and smaller portions to keep healthy all season long

MK Orthopaedics is pleased to welcome to our practice, DR. REBECCA KUO, M.D., J.D. a specialist in surgical and non-surgical treatments of the spine.

• She received her BA at Dartmouth College.

• She completed her residency at Rush University in Chicago.

• She completed her spinal surgery fellowship at the University of Texas in Houston.

Dr. Kuo treats the entire spine from scoliosis to spinal stenosis in children and adults. Whether it be neck pain, back pain or chronic pain to acute nerve pain, Dr. Kuo has been trained to utilize a wide array of surgical procedures including minimally invasive techniques to speed recovery time for her patients.

O

nce the last of the holiday treasures has been opened, you may find you are feeling more than the Christmas spirit. It is all too easy to overdo things during the holidays – from carrying those heavy packages filled with joy, the baking of sheet after sheet of luscious cookies, the 20 pound Christmas turkey, and of course the snow can lead to the pressure, the intake of so much tasty food that you cannot simply pass by and the result can often be some aches and pains.

Here are a few tips for starting your year off with a healthier back and neck.

UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS WHO PROVIDE SPECIALIZED MEDICAL SERVICES

Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Partners with Northwestern Medicine® for Interventional Radiology Services

• Stay active: Continue your normal exercise routine or ease into it if you have taken a break.

• During gatherings and parties take a break from the table to chat or walk around.

• Eat smaller portions and take longer breaks between meals.

• Be careful on the ice and snow: shovel with care and remember to lift with your legs and core, not your back!

• Ask for help if that toy is just too high or the gift is just a bit too heavy.

• Spread out your workload so you are not over extended. It is a time for family to be together, right?

Comprehensive vascular and non-vascular interventional care, as well as interventional oncology services, is available to patients at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital through a new exclusive partnership with Northwestern Medicine®.

Interventional radiology is a medical sub-specialty of radiology, which uses minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat diseases in nearly every organ system. The science behind interventional radiology is to diagnose and treat patients using the least invasive techniques currently available to minimize risk, reduce infection rates and recovery time, shorten hospital stays and improve outcomes. Many conditions that once required surgery can now be treated non-surgically by interventional radiologists.

If you do get injured then here are some tips for getting yourself back on your feet.

The primary interventional radiologists providing this care at Elmhurst Memorial are Elias Hohlastos, M.D., Ryan Hickey, M.D., and Andrew Blum, M.D., all members of Northwestern Medical Group. They are part of the new dedicated interventional radiology outpatient clinic, which opens in February in the Hospital’s Center for Health. This new partnership aligns closely with the November 2013 opening of the Hospital’s Center for Cancer Care.

• Allow yourself a little rest but not too much. A couple of days limiting your activity should suffice to let the spasms subside.

• Anti-inflammatory medication and ice to your back or neck could be helpful too.

• Stretching those tight muscles to help them relax will not just make you more limber, but can also calm the pain.

As always, if pain persists, call your doctor for an evaluation or advice.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2014!

Setting the Standard of Excellence 396 Remington Blvd, Ste. 131 | Bolingbrook, IL | 963 129th Infantry Drive, Ste. 100 | Joliet, IL | (815) 741-6900 | www.mkortho.org 14 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Professional Medical PROFILE

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Dr. Blum has been part of the interventional radiology team at Elmhurst Memorial since 2008, focusing on peripheral vascular disease. Dr. Blum will continue to work closely with Drs. Hohlastos and Hickey, who also bring the expertise of interventional oncology to the table.

“Interventional radiology and interventional oncology have come a long way over the past 20 years,” explains Dr. Riad Salem, Chief of Interventional Radiology at Northwestern Medicine® and recently named to Chicago magazine’s 2014 list of Top Doctors. “What began as procedures used mainly on the heart, interventional methods can now be performed on many other parts of the body. Many patients tolerate interventional procedures better since there is minimal anesthesia and the incision is typically less than two millimeters in size requiring no sutures. Often times the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.”

Interventional radiologists are the pioneers in modern minimally invasive medicine. Using X-rays, CT, ultrasound, MRI, and other imaging modalities, interventional radiologists capture images to help direct interventional instruments throughout the body…often in spaces less than 3 millimeters in size. These procedures are usually

Ryan Hickey, M.D., Elias Hohlastos, M.D., Andrew Blum, M.D.

performed using needles and narrow tubes called catheters.

Some of the more common conditions using interventional treatments include aneurysms, arterial disease, varicose veins and uterine fibroid embolization.

Interventional oncology, which is becoming the fourth pillar in cancer care, is used at various stages in cancer treatment. It can be used alone, or in conjunction with standard of care cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, as a palliative treatment, or as a bridge to organ transplantation. Through new refined procedures, interventional oncologists deliver radiation or chemotherapy directly to the blood vessels. This is very helpful in the treatment of liver cancer and is often used on patients who cannot handle surgery or with tumors that do not respond well to chemotherapy.

Northwestern Medicine’s interventional radiology group works closely as a multidisciplinary team with the patient’s referring EMHC physician to ensure the best possible treatment. Their clinical nurse coordinators assist patients with planning, and follow up after treatment.

Northwestern Medical Group Interventional Radiology/Oncology

1200 S. York Rd, Suite 3100 Elmhurst, Il 60126 (331) 221-0560

HEALTH & FITNESS

HEALTH & FITNESS

MEMORY LOSS:

activities may make them uncomfortable or unsure of themselves. They may also forget the positive association they had with personal hobbies, favorite sports teams, games or household projects they once enjoyed. Limiting social activities to shorter time spans may be helpful.

Warning signs may signal a need for a medical evaluation

Decline in decision-making

By Bonnie R. Kohout, Director of Marketing King-Bruwaert House – Burr Ridge

One of the most critical changes affecting a person with Alzheimer’s is the inability to make important decisions. This is especially true when handling financial matters.

Banking, insurance payments, bill-paying and purchases may need assistance or oversight from a family member or friend. Careful monitoring of finances should be a priority to avert problems with important money matters.

Getting older brings an abundance of physical changes for most people. Energy levels may decline, bones begin to creak, arthritis can produce symptoms of discomfort, and vision or hearing acuity may require glasses or hearing aids. Yet these common signs of aging don’t typically generate fear in the same way as memory loss. When individuals start to exhibit a steady decline with memory, rationale thinking or reasoning skills, an effort should be made to seek medical evaluation and support.

Having the ability to function day-to-day with normal thinking capabilities is the catalyst for individuals being able to live independently without concern.

There are a few general warning signs relating to memory loss that trigger the need for a medical assessment. Individuals may regularly experience one or more of these symptoms: Reduced Task Management

Challenge with communications

Misplacing items

Those with Alzheimer’s Disease or memory loss may find it challenging to handle routine, day-to-day tasks. They may have trouble using the oven, operating appliances, driving to familiar locations, managing the checkbook or remembering how to use a phone. It is interesting to note that for those experiencing memory loss symptoms, their most recent memories are the ones that fragment the most. It is not uncommon for someone with memory loss to cite exact details of an event that occurred 40 years ago. They draw knowledge from the past, but may not be able to function or remember details in the present.

A person with memory loss may find it difficult to participate in a normal conversation. A discussion may be punctuated by long pauses, a struggle with words or vocabulary, a repetition of phrases or general confusion.

Losing things may become more commonplace for some people who may not have the memory for re-tracing their steps to find them. They may also place personal objects in unusual, hard-tofind locations.

Visual disorientation

Changing personality and mood

Visual disorientation may be an overt sign of Alzheimer’s. Individuals may have trouble reading a book or newspaper, judging distances and spaces or determining colors and contrast.

This is especially challenging when it comes to driving where visual skills are vital – and it may be time to relinquish a driver’s license.

Forgetting time, place and dates

Hygiene begins to falter

Individuals with memory loss may forget times, dates, seasons, birthdays or appointments. They may also have trouble understanding a normal conversation. It is not unusual for someone with memory loss to forget where they are, who they’re with or how they got there.

A well-groomed person may lose complete interest in personal hygiene. Bathing stops, hair may go unwashed for days, nails need trimming, shaving is curtailed and clothing may be soiled.

Personal hygiene may become a low, if not forgotten priority.

There are days when individuals with memory loss may be surprisingly alert and attentive. On other days, they may exhibit great confusion and become depressed, angry, suspicious, fearful or unusually anxious. These personality changes may increase when individuals are exposed to situations outside their home and away from their comfort zone. They may become easily upset or flustered at family gatherings, parties, restaurants or places that are not familiar.

16 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Avoiding social activities The signs may be subtle at first, but some people with memory loss may start to avoid social engagements or group interactions. Social m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Having a professional diagnosis and assessment of Alzheimer’s or memory loss will allow family members to move to a new level when considering care, living options, transportation concerns, medical plans, safety factors and the handling of financial and legal issues. It will be important to build a reliable support network to navigate the future. Once a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia is made, the future will require care, support, understanding and intervention.

You are cordially invited to a presentation by community educator and author Dan Kuhn, LCSW who will discuss his book, “Alzheimer’s Early Stages: First Steps for Families, Friends and Caregivers”

1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12 King-Bruwaert Great Lounge 6101 S. County Line Road, Burr Ridge Since 1987, Dan Kuhn has focused on dementia care, family caregiving concerns and end-of-life care. In 2009, he received the Mental Health and Aging Award from the American Society on Aging. His one-hour presentation will be followed by a question-answer session.

Refreshments will also be served.

RSVP by calling (630) 230-9521 by Feb. 7 or email: bonniek@kbhouse.org

“Having a professional medical team makes a big difference in helping families cope with the physical, emotional and social changes of an Alzheimer’s patient,” said Dr. Peter Norvid, medical director and board-certified geriatrician for the Geriatric Assessment Center and Outpatient Clinic located at KingBruwaert House in Burr Ridge. “It helps to be prepared for the early- mid- and late stages that accompany a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. Families can anticipate needs and respond with the appropriate medical care and attention.”

For more information on medical assessments, call the Geriatric Assessment Center at (630) 655-7002. New patients are welcome to the clinic.

Note: Excerpts of guidelines are referenced from the Alzheimer’s Association in this article. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 17

HEALTH & FITNESS

offers lots of encouragement, peppered with perhaps some humor and insight, to engage each customer and motivate them to work at their maximum intensity.

I always tell my customers that the benefits of exercise start internally. One of the best aspects of my job is celebrating the successes of our customers, and I don’t think a week goes by where someone tells me what a difference Jazzercise has made in their life. The tangible benefits of exercise – one small success at a time - provide the motivation to keep fitness in our life.

Get heart healthy with a great cardio workout

February is Heart Healthy Month, and Suburban Life Magazine took some time to chat with Anne Graham of Jazzercise Glen Ellyn, about the importance of cardiovascular exercise and why Jazzercise, some 45 years in business, has stayed so successful while other fitness trends have come and gone.

Q: What can you tell me about women’s cardio health, as related to regular exercise, like that at Jazzercise?

A: We hear so much about cancer impacting the lives of women, but in reality heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States.

Making exercise a regular part of our life is a great step in preventing the risk of heart disease, and goredforwomen.org is a great resource for a comprehensive review of women’s heart health.

It is so easy to get caught in the vortex of a busy lifestyle that we forget to take time for exercise and our health which can result in a very unbalanced life.

Making an “appointment with exercise” is perhaps one of the most important dates we can put in our calendar. Through exercise we can achieve balance both physically and emotionally, which equates to less stress, and stress is a contributing factor to many health issues.

Q: We hear a lot about core strength, is that more important that aerobic exercise?

A: Core strength moved to the forefront buzz in the fitness industry a few years ago, and it is definitely an important part of a well-rounded fitness program.

Often we think of just our abdominal muscles when we think of our core, but our core incorporates the muscles in our pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen. Exercises that focus on the core not only help us in looking thinner, but I think more 18 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

importantly, give us better balance and stability.

Core strength allows our muscles to relieve the stress off our bones in keeping an erect spine and maintaining good posture, and in doing so, reduces the risk of lower back injury. Especially as we age, the ability to perform daily activities without the increased risk of injury is a huge step in ensuring healthy, independent living.

In a Jazzercise class, our customers get the assurance of knowing that core exercises are incorporated into their 60 minute workout, and they can reap the benefits of a strong core both know and as they age.

Q: Exercise programs and fitness trends come and go, and it seems there always is something new on the market. Why has Jazzercise maintained its presence for so long and stayed so successful?

A: While dance aerobics programs like Jazzercise experienced extreme success especially in the 80’s, Jazzercise has actually had the most profitable, successful years in company history over the past decade.Jazzercise is a fusion of a variety of exercise programs. In addition to dance aerobics, we include kickboxing, core, yoga, Pilates, and resistance training. In fact, every 60 minute Jazzercise workout incorporates cardio, strength training and stretching.

Coupled with ability to burn up to 600 calories, it is a very efficient, effective workout.

We don’t necessarily give in to every “gimmick” that comes around, but we keep our program fresh and innovative by constantly improving on an already successful formula. Our routines are choreographed variety of music styles - everything from Top 40, rock, hip hop, jazz, techno as well as music from cutting edge artists. In fact, my teenage daughters covet my iTunes library!

We give our customers a much needed outlet from the challenges and commitments of the day. There is so much positive energy in a class – once the music begins we’ve all left our worries at the door.

The music is pumping, our bodies are working, and we reaffirm to ourselves just how important it is to allocate time for exercise.

Q: What can one expect from a typical class?

A: Well, besides a great workout, great music, and lots of fun – our typical Jazzercise class is 60 minutes in length and is an integrative workout incorporating cardio, strength training and stretching. We begin with a choreographed stretch and the cardio portion lasts 30 – 35 minutes. We then do 15 – 20 minutes of strength training with weights and/or resistance tubes followed by a stretch to end the hour. Throughout the entire workout, the instructor faces the class and is not only working out with them but is giving verbal cues to allow each customer to safely and effectively follow the routines. In addition, each instructor m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Jazzercise has had a sustaining presence in the fitness industry, and we are celebrating our 45th anniversary this year. More than 7800 franchisees are in place throughout the world and 32,000 Jazzercise classes are taught weekly. Jazzercise Glen Ellyn is offering free classes the week of Feb. 10-16 and will have membership specials all month! Class times and locations can be found at jazzercise.com.

When memories begin to fade… we’re here to help families keep their focus.

If a family member or friend has been experiencing memory lapses, loss of judgment or personality changes, it may be time to seek assistance. At King-Bruwaert House, we’re here to help families cope with memory-related or other health changes. Suzanne’s Place offers a safe, secure and family-focused living environment for those experiencing symptoms of early- to mid-stage memory loss.

Amenities include:

• Three daily, nutritious meals • Fitness and horticultural classes • Small group learning and social activities

• Laundry and linen service • Medication assistance • Private rooms and scenic garden setting

When memories begin to fade, we’re help to help families keep their focus.

Call (630) 323-2250 or (630) 230-9521 today to schedule an appointment or tour.

6101 S. County Line Road • Burr Ridge, IL www.kingbruwaert.com m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 19

FAMILY IN FOCUS

FAMILY IN FOCUS

Wheaton school fosters young love of music, designed to last a

LIFETIME

By SHERRI DAUSKURDAS

From the time we are born, perhaps even in the womb, human beings begin to respond to music. From the Baby Mozart compilations that entertain to the soothing sounds of classic lullabies, and sing-along songs for toddlers on television and at preschool, our appreciation for music is honed early in our lives, when our minds are the most ready to soak up the world around us.

MUSICAL YOUTH 20 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

That same theory is at work at Wheaton Yamaha Music School, where the youngest of musicians are becoming music lovers, through social-centered classes in musicianship designed to foster a lifelong passion in its young participants.

“We teach musicianship here – not just music lessons,” says Beverly Griffith, school director. “There is singing, rhythm, and lots of fun, and all the while, they also are learning the keyboard.”

The school's programs provide the young child with an introduction to basic principles of music — relative pitch, notation, melody, harmony, and rhythm — all in an atmosphere that is nurturing, rewarding, and fun. Children play to learn, and their natural musical abilities flourish.

Beverly Griffith instructs students during a music class at the Wheaton Yamaha Music School. Photos by Jeff Krage

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

“ Music need not be forced in, just brought out,” Griffith says.

Weekly group classes for the youngest

students involve a parent as well, and the sessions begin with students as young as three and a half years old, in a program called “Music Wonderland.” This program introduces very young children to the world of music through listening, singing, dancing and playing the keyboard. Emphasis is on expressing emotion through music and learning that music can say many things.

This class meets for 45 minutes once a week for 15 weeks.

At four and a half through six years old, the students progress through primary levels one through four, learning more about rhythm and notes, melodies and harmonies. This four-semester program builds on concepts introduced in Musicland: musical notation, rhythm, ear training, singing, keyboard, solfege, melody, harmony, transposition, and ensemble.

By six and a half, they move on to the “Young Musicians” class. Its goal is to develop each student's fundamental musicianship and to introduce basic keyboard skills, music reading, singing, playing-by-ear, rhythm, and improvisation.

“Each lesson offers more,” she says. “You start in one key, and it builds each week.

Their ears are developing, and musical fluency is assimilated like any other language. Our children have incredible ears.”

-Continued on page 22

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 21

FAMILY IN FOCUS

“ Music need not be forced in, just brought out” -Beveryly Griffith, Director of Wheaton Yamaha Music School

-Continued from page 21 Students work within a group to become a music ensemble which generates individual effort. As part of a group of up to a dozen other children, they become active listeners, a valuable life skill. Once they complete the group classes, they can continue privately.

In addition, teachers undergo rigorous screening, training and exams through the Yamaha Music Education System. Seven teachers, five of them certified Yamaha instructors, lead the more than 260 students currently enrolled in the Wheaton programs.

“When kids come in, they’re younger, and it’s hard to say at three-an-a-half what kind of musicians they’ll be. But they explore all the sounds the electronic keyboard offers, a good foundational instrument. This is a wonderful place to open the possibilities to whatever they want to play.”

For Margie Fawcett of Winfield, the experience has been all she had hoped for her children, now 10 and 8, who have taken classes at Wheaton Yamaha since they were 4 years old.

The Yamaha courses began in the mid1950s in Japan under the direction of Gen’ichi Kawakami, the president of what today is known as the Yamaha Corporation.

Kawakami established the non-profit Yamaha Music Foundation (YMF) in 1966 for the purpose of developing and promoting music education across the world. Today, YMF guides the development of the Yamaha Music Education System in 41 countries.

Wheaton Yamaha Music School has been a fixture in the community for 45 years.

Teachers have extensive music backgrounds and hold their degrees in piano performance.

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“The classes are fun and engaging,” she says. “Wonderful music theory and ear training are hidden in fun games. For the very young child, learning simple music they can play brings excitement, joy and energy.”

Midwestern University Dental Institute

Fawcett said her children experienced a great sense of accomplishment when they’d work at a piece of music and master it.

“I have a budding singer and a budding composer at my house and they both use the piano as the foundation for these new music adventures. I am thrilled to have Wheaton Yamaha as a partner in introducing my children to the world of music.”

Your Family’s Home for Healthcare

Enrollment is going on now for programs beginning throughout February.

For families seeking just a taste of the program, before making a long-term commitment, basic music camps are offered three times per year, in spring summer and fall. These offer a sampler of the program.

Call 630-682-1334 or visit wheatonyamahamusic.com for details.

3450 Lacey Road Downers Grove, IL 60515 At Bu er eld Road (Route 56) & I-355 www.mwuclinics.com

Beverly Griffith, left, teaches a primary 1 music class at the Wheaton Yamaha Music School.

22 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

At Midwestern University Dental Institute, you will be seen by student-dentists in their nal years of professional education. roughout the process, these student-dentists are carefully supervised by licensed instructors who have many years of private practice experience.

For prospective patients, we start with a low-cost screening in order to determine if your needs meet our ability to provide treatment for you. e next step would then be a comprehensive exam, which may include imaging and other tests, a er which your treatment plan options will be reviewed with you including a complete explanation of the exam results, the anticipated costs, and scheduling.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

We are a full service dental clinic providing a wide range of treatments including : • • • • • • • •

Cleanings X-rays Fillings Crowns Bridges Extractions Oral Surgery Pediatric Care

Now Accepting Appointments for Patient Screenings!

Call today at 630/743-4500

FAMILY IN FOCUS

FAMILY IN FOCUS

I thought my addiction to Candy Crush was bad.

This was downright ridiculous.

A few weeks ago, I was trying to get the family ready for church and my son and husband were playing Xbox. I had to threaten both “my boys” with a time-out or grounding them from the game if they didn’t get off their butts and get ready for church. (I thought my addiction to Candy Crush was bad. This was downright ridiculous.)

the

XBOX

factor

W

e’ve entered a new phase of play in our family—video games.

We’ve had an Xbox 360 for several years now, but it wasn’t until recently that my son began choosing the video games over trucks and trains.

Technically, the Xbox system belongs to my husband. I bought it for him as a Christmas gift a few years ago. I justified buying my grown husband the gaming system with the thought that we could play “as a family.” It had “Kinnect,” where you get up and the camera allows you to play games using your body instead of a controller. We also assumed our son, who was two-years old when I bought it, eventually would start playing video games.

Flash forward some 24 months and I can count on one hand how many times we played it “as a family.” The kids and I enjoy showing off our 24 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

dance moves with games like Dance Central and Just Dance, but beyond that, I have avoided any kind of gaming like the Plague.

On the contrary, our son did, indeed, take a liking to it. And while it provided me an opportunity to clean the house, do laundry and have a moment’s peace to myself, I knew he likely would become addicted to the damn thing. Sure enough, he now wakes up in the morning and without saying a word he goes into the toy room, turns it on and picks up where he left off the night before.

There are occasions he insists I sit down and play, usually some sort of Lego game (the purpose of which completely escapes me.) But at least the Lego games make more sense than Minecraft, which boasts graphics that harken back to a meld of Coleco and Atari with a dash of Intellivision. Though unlike Minecraft, those games all were simple to understand. I wish they

made Tetris or Super Mario Brothers for Xbox 360.

It was time to put my foot down on this nonsense. I had to have serious talk with my husband about how he is setting a bad example by disrespecting me. I have a hard enough time getting out the door to go to work, get the kids into bed at a reasonable time and limit the amount of time they stare at any given screen in the house. I don’t need the biggest kid in my house fueling the fire and making it any worse.

On the bright side, my son in so in love with his precious video games that I now have something to hang over his head when he is misbehaving.

Even the thought of losing his Xbox privileges has him standing at attention. Now, if I could just get my husband to fall into line.

I do my best to feign interest in Lego Star Wars, but I usually fall short of my son’s expectations to get him out of a tough level, and that is where my husband steps in. I remember when I would count down the minutes until he got home so I could hand off a screaming baby. Now I await his arrival home to save me from video-gaming Hell.

I appreciate this new bond that has developed between father and son. But they also are partners in crime – ignoring me while they are playing, sitting there, the two of them, with the same blank looks on their faces…while their fingers work the controls with the madness of Mozart at the piano – jump, punch and run.

I nearly have to turn the game off to get their attention.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Happy Valentine’s Day! Presenting special entrees & desserts

White Pines Golf Club & Banquets

500 W Jefferson, Bensenville | 630-766-0304 x2 | whitepinesgolf.com A facility of Bensenville Park District

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The area’s #1 Real Estate Team Your advocates, consultants and negotiators The best choice for marketing and listing your home for maximum value

Distinctive Real Estate Write This Down with Michelle Stien

Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 4 and 6. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with other suburban women to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Kathy Quaid Maureen Rooney www.quaidandrooney.com Tel: 630.790.5904 SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 25

FAMILY IN FOCUS

A S P I R AT I O N S

Become

DANCE COMPANY ... now in its 10th dance season

from ages 18 mo. – Adult Offering Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Poms, Kids Combo Classes, Boys only Breakdancing & Hip Hop, Tumbling (We have a full tumbling program with all equipment to provide both activites under one roof and combined pricing.) & more. ADC has also been rated as one of the TOP 50 studios to dance at in the region.

a f an!

Home of the Award Winning FIERCE Competitive Team.

First Place Awards, Top Overall Trophies, Best in Hip Hop 2013, and Most Entertaining of the Year 2013.

VINE brings together the culinary delights of My Chef Catering with delicious sips from local wineries and breweries. Join us!

Proceeds from VINE benefit the programs and services of Teen Parent Connection.

350 S. Main Street, Lombard, IL 60148 630-889-(JAZZ) 5299 hello@aspirationsdanceco.com www.aspirationsdanceco.com

M for ent a F ion RE th E C is a LA d SS

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.teenparentconnection.org

Kelly Callese, Owner & Artistic DIrector

New Years Special!

presents

Friday, April 11, 2014 • 6:30 – 10:30 pm Danada House in Wheaton • Tickets: $85 each

A SP I R AT IO N S

Fully stocked dance boutique for boys & girls for all your shopping needs and wants. Exclusive ADC logo items.

FAMILY IN FOCUS

Follow the Suburban Life Magazine at facebook.com/SuburbanLifeMagazine.

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 27

C

DINING & ENTERTAINING

ABERNET..

company White Gold CHARDONNAY TAKES ITS PLACE AT THE TABLE AGAIN Most wine writers these days, if they write about white wines, expound on the virtue of ABC – Anything But Chardonnay. And while, admittedly, Chardonnay has never been a favorite of mine, there comes a time for all things. And even I have my moments of Chardonnay-ness.

Of the big, well known grape varietals, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon lead the pack. Even nonwine drinkers are familiar with these two.

CABERNET AND COMPANY

with Alixe Lischett

Alixe Lischett is owner of Cabernet and Company in Glen Ellyn. She offers her 20 years of expertise in the wine industry to the DuPage County community.

Around since the beginning of wine history, Chardonnay is one of the cornerstones of worldwide wine production. It’s hardy, grown in cooler climates making it perfect for northern France, Napa, Sonoma, Carneros, Oregon, the mountains of Chile, and the hills surrounding Santa Barbara. It can be smoky, buttery, crisp like a green apple, citrusy as a lemon, full of flinty-mineral flavors, smooth and creamy, or like buttered popcorn in a bottle.

In France Chardonnay is called white Burgundy.

Pouilly Fuissé, the buzz wine of the 1970s and ‘80s, is a Chardonnay. The soil in the Chardonnay region of France tends to be chalk. In some areas the chalk content is so high the soil is actually white.

The wines are usually crisp, clean, flinty (a slight dusty finish), wonderfully aromatic and long lived. Most just get better with age.

My favorite story about White

Burgundy concerns Charlemagne, then emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. It’s said that Charlemagne loved wine, especially a red wine called Corton.

But his wife found unattractive the red wine he inevitably spilled down his long white beard. She asked the winegrower to produce a white wine to satisfy him. The winegrower complied and Corton Charlemagne was born. Today it sells for $100 a bottle.

Chablis is another wonderful White Burgundy. You might know Chablis as horrible stuff – wretched, sweet-ish, abysmal. You are mistaken. In the 1970s, Chablis was a name attached to any generic white wine by the large, box wine producers. The wine was usually a very low level white, produced from Thompson Seedless grapes. The winemakers thought Americans didn’t know any better. These days, because of past prejudices, selling real Chablis can be a struggle. But it really is a lovely, minerally Chardonnay with very little oak and nice citrus touches.

Over here and "down under," we tend to like our Chardonnays with a bit of smokiness and lots of buttered popcorn flavors. When done well, a good New World Chardonnay has enough flavor and structure to be a meal in itself.

revisited Restaurants turn tables on traditional cuisine

By YVONNE BENSON

Photo by Jason Adrian Photography

I

n the authentic Mexican kitchen, one of the most revered recipes is that of “mole” a complex sauce, as rich in varied ingredients as it is in family tradition.

Multiple generations of women work together in the kitchen, teaching the preparation to younger generations and handing down with it the stories that build kinship.

In recent years "un-oaked" chardonnays have gained in popularity, even in California. It’s crisp and citrusy, without a hint of smoke or oak. This is Chardonnay with minimal finesse.

Here in the western suburbs, two women are bringing versions of this Mexican tradition to a larger audience, as a feature in their restaurants.

My latest discovery is Oregon Chardonnay, and these might just offer the best of both worlds. Some oak, but well integrated. Crisp, clean, with good acid and great with food. Ten years ago you wouldn't catch me drinking one. Now, I seem to gravitate to them. Just delicious.

At Cine in Hinsdale, Chef Yanni Sanchez expresses extreme respect and appreciation for mole and its connection to Mexico.

So I dare you to bypass the “ABCs” of the world and try Chardonnay again. It remains the number one selling white wine in the world for a reason.

28 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Mexico,

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

“Mole Negro is the most important dish that we have in Mexico. Each state produces its own,” Sanchez explains. “You have to put all of the ingredients that the mole requires – there are twenty six ingredients.”

But respect for the authentic doesn’t stop

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Sanchez from making her own changes to traditional Mexican recipes, based on the culinary training that she received in France.

“Mole is everywhere – mole negro – it’s from Mexico but the way that I present the dish is totally different from the others,” she explains, “Instead of the classic rice I do risotto – creamy risotto. Most of the mole is served with plantain and I try to keep this tradition; but instead I do a sweet plantain coquette.

“We obviously respect the traditions of [Mexico] with our menu and have the classics, but we make Mexican food with the French techniques,” Sanchez says. “You can appreciate the ingredients in a different way when you combine two things.”

Playa Del Sol in Downers Grove makes mole and serves mole… but you won’t find it on the menu. You must ask for it specifically and Poy Piedra will gladly dish it up. Hers is a change

to the traditional as well, in that the Playa Del Sol recipe has a bit less heat. Eager to share the food from her homeland, she adjusts her mole, and her other Mexican recipes, to be more accommodating of her customers’ tolerance to spice.

“Real Mexican food is spicy,” she says. “But here in the restaurant we don’t have too spicy food because our customers are American.”

Regardless the alterations, the traditions remain – multiple ingredients, high quality chiles, attention to detail. The results are Mexican recipes everyone can enjoy.

“There are thousands of ways of making mole,” Sanchez says. “The most important way is to do it with your heart – with all of your love – because if you do it that way then I can guarantee that everything will be perfect.”

Piedra urges diners to be open-minded when delving into food from another culture.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 29

DINING & ENTERTAINING

DINING & ENTERTAINING

O�ca� Swan Presents Editor's Choice

Parties Large or Small:

Great gift ideas for Valentine’s Day

• Reunions • Open to the Public for Lunch • Private and Tours on Wednesdays Parties Call Tuesday for Reservations • Showers • Weddings • Private Brunch or • Ceremonies Luncheon for 10 or more people Please call for Details

Upcoming Events: Elgin Youth Symphony Please call for Reservations

Fundraiser - Downton Abbey Tea Party at Oscar Swan

e

GENEVA 1800 West State Street Geneva, IL

630-232-0173

ro

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Valentine Brunch at Noon March 2nd from 2-4 pm Sunday, February 9th • Accommodat Sunday, February 16th fast ion s f eak r B or & d B A Historic

up

Lodging

GALENA 3351 Elizabeth-Scales Mound Rd. Scales Mound, IL (Near Galena)

www.oscarswan.com

815-541-0653

Valentine’s Day has an uncertain history. One legend suggests St. Valentine was a priest in third century Rome, who secretly married young lovers despite a wartime law that outlawed new marriages. Another story tells of a priest who after helping prisoners to escape Roman torture and persecution, was imprisoned himself, and wrote beautifully romantic letters to his beloved from jail, signing them “From your Valentine.”

But regardless the history, today’s Valentine’s Day celebrates a range of love, friendship, camaraderie and romance. The gifts and greetings exchanged range from playful to passionate, clever and cutesy. We’ve complied a list of our favorite local finds for spreading Valentine’s Day cheer this year.

30 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

❤ A spa package from Mario Tricoci Salons is as romantic as it is luxurious. Choose from salt scrubs, massages, facials and more, or a day of full on beauty at the salon. Prices vary by service, or choose a gift card and let your sweetheart design their own day. ❤ For some light-hearted luxe, a Teddy bear in orange mink, from York Furriers in Elmhurst is the perfect blend of playful and posh. On sale for $425.

R

❤ Surprise your sweetheart with a relaxing treat. Choose a bottle from more than 50 sparkling wines at Cabernet and Company Fine Wine Shop in Glen Ellyn. Available in a split, half bottle, or full bottle, starting at $9.99. Add Champagne bubble bath and a straw...or two, and have a romantic evening in!

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Est. 1962

❤ This Valentine’s day, give a gift that’s as unique as the person receiving it, with a Pandora charm bracelet. Intricate charms can be mixed and matched to create a personalized piece that shows just how much you care. Available at the Pandora Store, Promenade Bolingbrook. ❤ Give the gift of together-time with private dance lessons from Celebrity Dace Studio in Downers Grove. The one-on-one instruction with a certified dance teacher offers a customized dance experience. Soon ou’ll be hitting the floor with style at hotspots across the suburbs!

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Inquire about Private Parties or Catering your Special Event (630) 279-8474 Carry-Out • (630) 279-8486 Dining 483 Spring Road, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

www.robertosristorante.com

Convert to Comfort

• Girl’s Day Out • Anniversaries • Sunday Breakfast • Ghost Hunting • Murder Mysteries

New Arrivals for Spring

Clothing and Yoga Wear Accessories • Jewelry • Candles • Soaps & Lotions

217 ½ South Third Street, Geneva, IL 630 208 4811 www.lilkascloset.com SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 31

FASHION & BEAUTY

FASHION & BEAUTY

“You definitely need to up your moisturizers, cleansers and masks.”

Give her more than your love to keep her warm

Sarah Bajzek, esthetician at Rocco and Rocco in Downers Grove

FACE THE WINTER with proper skin care

By ALLISON HORNE

W

inter is in full swing, and the chilly gusts and enormous snowdrifts are forcing everyone to bundle up in layers, often forgetting about the most important layer underneath it all—your skin.

The cold, dry air that goes hand-in-hand with the winter season often brings about dry skin, blood vessel breakage, and other disorders like eczema.

Even if you are a regular moisturizer and take care of your skin on a daily basis, it might not be enough during the cold, harsh winter.

Suburban skin specialists are sharing their knowledge for keeping your epidermis in tip-top shape in the harsh weather that comes with the winter months.

32 | FEBRUARY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

TAKING ON THE WINTER Staying out of the cold is unavoidable in the winter, but there are many skincare tips that can help keep your skin as healthy as possible. Some of the problems that estheticians come across during the cold months include dry, red, itchy, and damaged skin. The two main causes of stress on skin are dry air and indoor heating, both of which are prevalent throughout the winter.

“People tend to do the same treatments that they do in the summer, but it’s really great to change your whole routine,” Sarah Bajzek, esthetician at Rocco and Rocco in Downers Grove, says. “You definitely need to up your moisturizers, cleansers and masks.”

Even if you regularly moisturize and tone your skin, it might not be enough to keep it nourished properly in the winter months. Instead of just loading moisturizer on your face, exfoliation and peels are the key to maintaining a healthy layer of skin.

“Use creamy cleansers that are gentle and nourishing to the skin and perform mild, but regular exfoliation followed by serums that add moisture and plump the skin,” Cheryl Santucci, Director of Esthetics and Retail at Mario Tricoci says. “Follow that with a high moisture content cream to lock hydration into the skin.”

There are a variety of different facials ideal for combating the winter, ranging from the Signature Organic Radiance facial at Mario Tricoci, which features an organic fruit acid peel to remove dead skin; In addition, Bajzek suggests the Organic Coconut Chamomile treatment at Rocco and Rocco, which helps to heal and calm the skin while rehydrating and replenishing.

“We have a really great organic line, Amrit, that has a bunch of different facials for different skin types,” Bajzek says. “A lot of people are so big on organic and eating organic, and this is kind of like eating clean for your skin as well.”

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

REMEDIES AT HOME If it’s not possible to make it to the spa for a professional facial during the winter, there are several ways to manage and maintain healthy skin without even leaving the comfort of your home.

For starters, Bajzek says to avoid extensive hot showers because excess steam can lead to over drying. Heavy moisturizers and face masks are a must, and when applying it at home, Bajzek recommends putting it on when skin is still moist and not completely dried off, which will help the skin take in the nutrients.

Fall in love with our individualized services: • Furs • Leathers • Repairs • Alternations • Storage • Redesign • Cleaning

Another simple tip that doesn’t take much effort is using a makeup that protects and keeps your face looking healthy. Mario Tricoci offers a line of Cose mineral makeup that is ideal for harsh weather and helps make skin weatherproof.

“Pure mineral makeup ensure that the moisture is locked in and skin has an extra layer of protection,” Santucci says.

When it comes down to it, your skin will be the most important layer you have this winter, so be sure to hop into a day spa and exfoliate and moisturize accordingly.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

10411 Cermak Rd, Westchster, IL (west of LaGrange Rd on Cermak)

708-562-3877

www.christosfursalon.com

Gift Certificates Available!

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 33

OUT & ABOUT

artist

showcase MARGARET COSPER | Hinsdale “YOUNG MAN IN BLUE” OIL ON CANVAS Margaret Cosper has been a resident of Hinsdale for 30 years. Painting and sketching throughout her life, she studied fine art at St. Mary’s Notre Dame and the American Academy of Art in Chicago.

Her art is mainly focused on oil painting, but takes on many forms, including illustration, watercolor and mixed media. Much of her work focuses on portraits and natural landscapes.

She finds painting to be the most concise form of communication and the human form a rich arena in which to explore and express emotion, intention, and challenge.

Dariusz Jewelers 5121 Main Street Downers Grove, IL 630-969-4332 dariuszjewelers.com

"GIRL IN GARDEN " OIL ON CANVAS To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to SuburbanLifeMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 35

OUT & ABOUT

FEBRUARY EVENTS In The Suburbs

HIGH

tech-touch-quality THE ELMHURST OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER EXPERIENCE!

Leading surgeons. Innovative procedures. Easy online registration. And, of course, lots of personal attention - and a reassuring smile - every step of the way from consultation to surgery to recovery. Discover the Elmhurst Outpatient Surgery Center experience.

E l m h u rs T

1200 S. York Road

O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y C E N T E R

331.221.4600 | WWW.EOSC.ORG

THROUGH MARCH 23 | YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN at the Drury Lane Theatre, at 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace Young Frankenstein is a wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic comedy masterpiece, hailed by the American Film Institute as one of the funniest movies of all time.

Tickets start at $30. For tickets or more information, call 630-530-0111 or visit www.drurylaneoakbrook. com.

FEBRUARY 1 | LOCAL NATIVES IN CONCERT 7 p.m. at Edman Chapel at Wheaton College, at the corner of Washington & Franklin in Wheaton Local Natives is an indie rock band based in Silver Lake, Los Angeles. Wheaton College band Strange Bedfellows will open the show. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. For more information, call 630-752-5181 or visit www.wheaton.edu.

FEBRUARY 8 | THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK 2 p.m. at Berwyn Public Library, at 2701 S. Harlem Ave. in Berwyn Join the library for an afternoon of music and fun for all ages with an old time sing-a-long. Words to the songs will be provided on a screen throughout the program. Musical selections will include songs by George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, George M. Cohan, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole, Carmin Miranda and others.

For more information, call 708-795-8000 or visit www.berwynlibrary.org.

FEBRUARY 8 & 9 | TOUR OF ITALY: STRAUSS, PAGANINI & MORE 7:30 p.m. at the Hemmens Cultural Center, at 45 Symphony Way in Elgin Journey through Italy as Brandon Ridenour, a former trumpeter with the Canadian Brass, performs "Agitata da due venti" from La Griselda, and a world premiere of Fantasy Variations composed by the trumpeter himself. Strauss' Aus Italien will continue your journey through the beauty of Italy, leaving you with images of the vibrant culture and countryside. Tickets start at $25. For tickets or more information, call 847-8884000 or visit www.elginsymphony.org.

FEBRUARY 11 | SPA HOP 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at various locations in Downtown Glen Ellyn This day is all about pampering yourself. Come enjoy 15 minute services amongst several spas in Downtown Glen Ellyn. Last year, over 356 women took advantage of over 465 appointments and loved every minute of it! Stay the day, have lunch, and relax. For more information, call 630-469-5000 or visit http:// downtownglenellyn.com.

FEBRUARY 13 | TANGLED VALENTINE HEARTS 7 p.m. at Indian Prairie Public Library, at 401 Plainfield Road in Darien Tangling is a form of doodling that's fun and relaxing, and produces amazing results. Artist Christine Thornton will show you how to tangle and make a Tangled Valentine heart to give as a gift, or keep for yourself. To register or for more information, call 630887-8760 or visit http://ippl.info.

Elmhurst, IL 60126 m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

FEBRUARY 15 | WATERCOLORS CLASS 1pm-3 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Park District Museum, at 108 S. Bloomingdale Road in Bloomingdale Learn to paint still lifes, florals, landscapes and more. Instructor provides students with a drawing of various subjects to be traced onto watercolor paper. No previous art instruction is necessary.

Supply list includes red, yellow and blue watercolors; #6 and #2 brushes; plastic palette; and 140-pound watercolor paper (9x12 sheets). To register or for more information, call 630-529-3650 or visit www. bloomingdaleparks.org.

FEBRUARY 15 | INSIDE WRITING AND PUBLISHING: COLLABORATION AND THE WRITING PROCESS 2 p.m. at the Hinsdale Public Library, at 20 E. Maple Street in Hinsdale For over a decade, novelist and creativity coach Brendan Sullivan has taught leaders of many Fortune 500 companies the techniques of collaborative creativity. In 2011, Sullivan applied these same processes to co-write his novel, The Living Wills.

Learn proven methods for plowing through creative blocks, generating more dynamic characters and plot lines, and opening the mind to a different, more natural and fun method of writing. To register or for more information, call 630-986-1976 or visit www. hinsdalelibrary.info.

FEBRUARY 17 | LITTLE CHEF COOK 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Johnson Recreation Center, at 172 S. Circle Ave. in Bloomingdale Bring out your inner chef by creating and sampling the goodies you prepare during these one-day cooking classes. Come in your best chef's attire and bring your appetite. Deadlines for each class are one week prior to the program. To register or for more information, call 630-529-3650 or visit www.bloomingdaleparks. org.

FEBRUARY 20 | MEET A REVOLUTIONARY WAR MUSICIAN 4 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, at 125 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst Dressed in uniform and ready to show you how to play a fife and drum, re-enactors will share the story and songs of the Revolution. Come be a part of it. For grades 2-8. To register or for more information, call 630-279-8696 or visit http://elmhurstpubliclibrary.org.

FEBRUARY 20 – 23 | 47TH ANNUAL ELMHURST COLLEGE JAZZ FESTIVAL at Hammerschmidt Chapel at Elmhurst College, at 190 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst This year's festival starts with a Thursday evening concert by the Elmhurst College Jazz Band. Festival judges include Andy Martin (trombone), Bobby Shew (trumpet), and Gary Smulyan (saxophone). Sunday evening the judges and the College's Jazz Band will perform. For more information, call 630-617-5534 or visit http://public.elmhurst.edu.

FEBRUARY 21 | DADDY DAUGHTER SWEETHEART BALL 6:30 p.m. at Lincoln Center, at 935 Maple Ave. in Downers Grove Spend a memorable evening with your little

sweetheart! This year's theme will take us to Prince Charming's Castle for Cinderella's Ball! Dress to impress and dance the night away. Dads and their special little ladies are invited to enjoy light refreshments, music, and fun activities. Digital photos of couples will be taken and made available for free download. For ages 4-13. Cost is $29 for residents and $43 for non-residents. To register or for more information, call 630-963-1300 or visit www.dgparks. org.

FEBRUARY 21 | GIRLS NITE OUT 4 p.m. at Wilder Mansion, at 211 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst Enjoy a fun-filled girls' night out. Featuring wine tastings, small bites, pampering, boutiquing, and art, you'll enjoy the very best Elmhurst has to offer - all in one spot. Cost is $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents. To register or for more information, call 630-993-8900 or visit www.epd.org.

FEBRUARY 22 | THE 5TH ANNUAL PIG CHAMPIONSHIP OF THE WORLD 9:30am at the Recreation Center, at 4500 Belmont Road in Downers Grove Got game? This game of friendly competition on the court just got serious! Win prizes for your ability to get your opponent out with a P.I.G. Be crowned the 5th Annual PIG Champion of the World and you're sure to be the talk of the town with this coveted title. Cost is $10 for youths and $15 for adults. To register or for more information, visit http://dgparks.org.

FEBRUARY 22 | FROZEN FILM FESTIVAL 1pm-8 p.m. at the Westmont Community Center, at 75 E. Richmond Street in Westmont Join the park district in discovering film-making's new talents at this film festival. Panel discussions of each movie will follow after the conclusion of the film and snacks will be provided to all the festival goers. For more information, call 630-963-5252 or visit www. wpd4fun.org.

FEBRUARY 27 | KITCHEN SCIENCE: ICE CREAM 3:45 p.m. at the La Grange Library, at 10 W. Cossitt Ave. in La Grange It's a dessert! It's a science project! It's way cool fun! After making our own ice cream, we will top it (with store bought ingredients) and enjoy our sweet science treat. For grades K-2. To register or for more information, call 708-215-3200 or visit www. lagrangelibrary.org.

MARCH 2 | THE TOWER CHORALE'S “BRAHMS REQUIEM: A GERMAN REQUIEM FOR ALL” 3 p.m. at Divine Infant Church, at 1601 Newcastle in Westchester Brahms' Ein deutsches Requiem is one of the key works in the history of the oratorio. Brahms assembled important passages from both the Old and New Testaments so that thoughts on sorrow and consolation would refer to one another. The beautiful sweeping lines of this music will have you spellbound!

For more information, call 630-964-3963 or email carlawing@sbcglobal.net.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2014 | 37

Now Enrolling New Classes

scene suburbs around the

Elmhurst Art Museum hosted an opening reception for its first exhibit of 2014, "SpotLight," which presents 10 artists with light-based sculptures, installations, and videos. The exhibition runs through April 27.

YAMAHA MUSIC CLASSES

• Music Wonderland 3½ - 4 years Thursdays at 4:00

• Young Musicians Course 6½ - 8 years Thursdays at 5:00

• Musicland 4½ - 6 years Mondays at 1:00 Tuesdays at 5:45 Wednesdays at 4:30 Saturdays at 9:00

• Private Lessons 9 + Based on availability Piano & Keyboard Singing • Games • Stories Movement to Music Ear Training • Theory • Rhythm

Classes begin the week of February 2nd

Join us for our Monthly Open House!

Contact us for more Information and to Register.

Photos by Joe Perez

Celebrating Over 45 Years!

WHEATON YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOL 935 W. Liberty Drive, Wheaton (630) 682-1334 www.wheatonyamahamusic.com