2015/12/01/moms-little-black-book-december-2015
top of page
Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine We Love Local

Chicago West

Featuring West Suburban Chicago...At a Glance!

► Subscribe

Item List

THE GIFT OF GIVING BACK The common core of most of the Fascinating Family stories in this issue is the knack of giving back. I am fortunate to live near some very Fabulous Families in my own neighborhood. Our group of kids, ranging in age from 4 to 15, still like to play street hockey, tag, ghost in the graveyard, and other endearing childhood games. As long as they are together, our neighborhood gang can find fun in just about anything; and are always up for another Mom’s Little Black Book adventure, including volunteering together. Other than FMSC in Aurora, I’m sure most of you know how difficult it is to find volunteer opportunities for kids under 13; so, it was refreshing to find the Daybreak Center Shepherd’s Table in Joliet, which has no minimum age. So long as the child is old enough to follow directions and can assist with meal preparation and service at home, he/she can help at Daybreak. I had served the Shepherd’s Table with our Girl Scout troop a few years back, so I knew ahead of time to prepare the kids’ for the experience of providing dinner to a diverse crowd of over 100 people that would include some very young homeless children as well. This adventure will leave even your youngest child feeling blessed from their act of selflessness. Our individual volunteer group was solely responsible for making the complete meal from start to finish. Our little worker bees divided and conquered the tasks of utensil assembly, meal prep, and drink station setup; while the adults worked to keep the kitchen clean and kids on task. After a couple hours of preparation, we opened the kitchen shutters, and our group was immediately humbled by the warm smiles and gratitude of the people we were serving. We were all quickly reminded that the best gift you can give this time of year is undeniably…..the gift of giving back. Overview.... Shepherd’s Table feeds members of the community who are hungry and unable to provide for themselves by offering a free mid-day meal. Daybreak Center operates 24-hours a day, 365 days a year and provides emergency housing and supportive services to the homeless. Daybreak Center 611 E. Cass Street Joliet, IL 60432 www.catholiccharitiesjoliet.org/daybreak-center Hours: Shepherds Table volunteers arrive at 5 a.m. for breakfast service; 9 a.m. for lunch service; and 5 p.m. for dinner. Price $ : Priceless about the writer Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | December 2015

THE GIFT OF GIVING BACK The common core of most of the Fascinating Family stories in this issue is the knack of giving back. I am...

Read More
THE BEST STORIES HAVE SEQUELS Just like Hollywood’s best movies, I decided a follow up to my December 2014 column was in order. So without further ado, I present: Everything I Ever Needed to Know…I Learned from Buddy the Elf, Part II. If you recall, there were a few basics to my spiritual Elf awakening: be yourself, find joy in the little things and don’t forget your sense of wonder (a.k.a. keep smiling, find a revolving door and stop being so gosh darn cynical!). And don’t forget, trying something new is definitely the way to get out of a rut. While you’re at it, how about doing things with GUSTO? Gusto is not only a cool word, it’s a great way to see what you’re really made of (hopefully not just beef and cheese). And last but not least, don’t give up. I know there are only so many times you can get up and dust yourself off before sitting atop a throne of lies seems like a better option, but the message here is, keep putting yourself out there no matter what (think: I’m singing, I’m singing and I’m in a mall…I’m SING-INNNNNNNNNNG!) Alright, alright…I feel like a refresher course of sorts would benefit all of us, especially at this wonderful, but hectic time of year. Good news! There’s one being offered that’s as easy to “sign up” for as The Nice List (remember, there’s room for everyone) and as fun as winning a snowball fight in Central Park. The backdrop is the beautiful – fabulously decked out for the holidays - Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, where they are not only wrapping up their 40th anniversary season, but doing so with GUSTO, by presenting the record-breaking box office smash, ELF the musical! The lights, the music, the action…I feel like I got a giant hug (and not from an angry raccoon) and as I looked around, the phrase “smiling’s my favorite” took on new meaning...not one angry elf in the house! Think of it as a fun, festive way to remind you what’s important in life – plus, you’ll get to see the one, the only…Santa (You know him!!!!) My favorite part (besides smiling, of course) was the musical component to this already heartwarming story. Just sing a Christmas song…it’s like Magic when things go wrong. Just spread some Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear. I felt nothing but sparklejollytwinklejingley when it was over! Overview: The Marriott Theatre, founded in 1975, has presented over 180 productions to 11 million people, and produces a variety of original and re-imagined musical classics. Elf the musical opened October 21st and runs through December 31st, with eight shows per week. www.marriotttheatre.com/show/elf This modern day classic is expertly portrayed on stage and makes an easy transition from the big screen with festive and fun set design and a jubilant score that includes “Happy All the Time”, “Sparklejoyllytwinklejiggley” and “I’ll Believe in You”. about the writer Tiffany Schultz resides in Sugar Grove with her husband, two kids and Shih Tzu. While seeking balance between her dueling roles as wife, mother, daughter, friend and professional, Tiffany spends as much time as possible daydreaming on her screen porch. She enjoys cooking, traveling and yoga and hopes to one day learn

TALES FROM THE HIGH WIRE | December 2015

THE BEST STORIES HAVE SEQUELS Just like Hollywood’s best movies, I decided a follow up to my December 2014 column was in order. So...

Read More
THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US..... It is a time for twinkly lights, hot chocolate and family fun! Looking for some different holiday experiences and live performances this year? Check out some of the area’s more popular festivities. Naperville Holiday Lights Trolley Tour Get a group together or buy an individual ticket and jump on this trolley to tour some of the most “over the top” decorated homes in Naperville. Tours are offered at various times in the evenings starting December 1. You can choose to tour the northern or southern part of town for an hour each or a combination for 2.5 hours. Reservations are required. www.napervilletrolley.com Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum This is a wintertime experience like no other. Take a one-mile cool weather walk through acres of illuminated trees that respond to your touch with dazzling lighting effects and music recorded by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Hug a tree and see how it responds; sing to another to watch its display of color. Live entertainment and warming stations add another level to your experience. Tickets are limited and advance purchase is recommended. www.mortonarb.org/illumination Paramount Theatre’s A Christmas Story and Second City Holidazed & Confused In the mood for a little holiday live performance? Visit the Paramount Theatre in Aurora this season and treat yourself to the musical production of one of the most watched and beloved holiday movies – A Christmas Story – running through Januray 3. If you are a fan of Second City sketch comedy, get ready to laugh at their hilarious holiday show Holidazed and Confused. No need to head all the way downtown. Show runs from December 4-20. www.paramountaurora.com Adventure to Santa with Shrek and Friends In Oak Brook OakBrook Mall is teaming up with Dreamworks to invite families to join Shrek and his friends on a magical sleigh ride to the North Pole to search for Santa. Guests are immersed in a 20-minute adventure of ultra-modern technology in a 4-D virtual sleigh ride to find and meet Santa. Walk-ins are welcome, but to avoid lines and waits, it is better to reserve your spot online by pre-purchasing a photo package ranging from $40-$74 per family. www.oakbrookcenter.com DuPage Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts In Naperville Enjoy symphonic arrangements of all your favorite holiday tunes plus a special visitor! Fun for the whole family at North Central College on Saturday, December 13 at 2pm and 4pm. Tickets can be purchased at the NCC Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469). www.dupagesymphony.org Watch for West Suburban Season Happenings inside each issue of Glancer Magazine in 2016.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS | December 2015

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US..... It is a time for twinkly lights, hot chocolate and family fun! Looking for some different holiday...

Read More
A HOLIDAY TOAST TO OUR SUPPORTERS..... As the year winds down and we look back on all of the memories created in 2015, we’d like to thank you for reading Glancer Magazine. Our team has enjoyed filling the pages this past year with west suburban news, views and events– but most of all we have loved putting together the countless stories highlighting ordinary residents who are achieving extraordinary things. The people in these stories are the core of our community and these stories are the core of our magazine. Celebrating the faces and places throughout the western suburbs is what we do best and we invite you to read along in 2016. Our editorial team promises another captivating year of fabulous families, tearful triumphs, hero moms and more. The line-up is better than ever, so be sure to visit us online and click UPCOMING ISSUES to see which one will be your favorite. We also welcome you to nominate a friend or loved one for a feature that might be fitting. When someone is recognized for their achievements or just appreciated for being their everyday self, it can mean great things for their heart and soul. We hope you enjoy this issue and as Bob Weil, one of our favorite community supporters would say, “Raise a Glass!” This toast is for you and for all of our other readers. May your season be filled with love and happiness. Thank you for reading! Lindy Kleivo Publisher / Editor Celebrating 15 Years In Local Publishing A West Suburban Focus, Featuring Your Community

EDITOR'S NOTE | December 2015

A HOLIDAY TOAST TO OUR SUPPORTERS..... As the year winds down and we look back on all of the memories created in 2015, we’d like to...

Read More
REEM HASSABALLA, HINSDALE The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation She demonstrates strength, courage, and concern for others. Meet the hero inside our local mom...... December is a special month for Reem because that is when her angel, Bayan, was born 19 years ago. Bayan seemed to be developing as any other toddler, until she was three. “Then she became off-balanced when she walked and she was not able to track with her eyes by kindergarten,” Reem shares. “Her immunity was very weak and she was afflicted with many horrible pulmonary infections.” Bayan was diagnosed with A-T at six and was confined to a wheelchair by age 10. A-T (Ataxia Telangiectasia) is a very rare inherited disorder that affects the nervous system, immune system, and other body systems. By age 12, Bayan also suffered from Lymphoma and passed shortly thereafter. The death of a child can be an unbelievable challenge, but Reem has chosen to face it with courage and strength for her four other children. Reem’s highest priority is teaching her children the importance of giving back and it is the very reason she established The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation in 2009. “Rising up and continuing to strive to make the world a little better helps me grieve and makes me realize that my angel is living on in my heart,” Reem says. “Creating this Foundation helped me bring out this inherent love that I have for philanthropy.” To participate in events or donate to the foundation, visit www.ourangelbayan.org. –Kristen Kucharski, Photo by Mike Mantucca Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #SuburbanHero

SUBURBAN HERO MOM | December 2015

REEM HASSABALLA, HINSDALE The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation She demonstrates strength, courage, and concern for others. Meet the hero...

Read More
BACK AWAY FROM THE CABERNET Can you believe it’s already December…the month of countless parties, gift giving, and dare I say drinking?? Who doesn’t love a Cabernet on a cold winter’s night or at a holiday party? I get it, it’s comfortable and familiar, but why not take a few risks when you need to bring a bottle to a party or as a last minute gift to give to your second cousin twice removed that you didn’t think you would get to see this month? Dare to be different this holiday season and back away from the Cabernet! Ever hear of a Brachetto d’ Acqui? It’s a party in your glass! This is such a charming wine that few people know about. It is named for the Brachetto grape as well the Acqui district in southern Piedmont not far from the town of Asti in Italy. The trick here is to drink this young (within a year of vintage is ideal) to maintain its super freshness and brightness. The wine is generally medium-bodied and tends to be sweet. It is usually lightly sparkling or what the Italians call “frizzante.” I opened a bottle of Cavallero Brachetto d’ Acqui 2014 DOCG. They did a beautiful job representing what the grape is capable of. This had an appealing cranberry color with aromas of strawberries, black raspberries, violets, and orchids. This Brachetto had delicious flavors of black cherry, strawberries, and watermelon. It was incredibly refreshing and perfect to pair with roasted nuts, amaretto cake, or chocolate. Being only 6% alcohol content you can easily put this down - but I’d enjoy it. Unfortunately the one I tasted is not imported in the states but they sell Brachetto d’ Acqui at larger wine shops. If you don’t think everyone on your holiday gift list appreciates bubby, here are some honorable mentions that impress without breaking the bank. Try a Vranac from Bosnia or a Plavac Mali from Croatia. These red wines are super interesting, delicious, and sure to please! Sláinte! ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino

THE CHICAGO WINO | December 2015

BACK AWAY FROM THE CABERNET Can you believe it’s already December…the month of countless parties, gift giving, and dare I say drinking??...

Read More
PUB FARE REDEFINED With the holidays quickly approaching and so much to get done, my sister and I decided to do two of our favorite things: dine and shop! We headed to Hinsdale where we knew we could find a few perfect gifts, but where would we eat? Fuller House 33 E 1st Street, Hinsdale Fullerhousebar.com (630) 537-1653Owners: Siblings Sam & Patricia Vlahos The Fuller House situated downtown amongst unique shops offers the perfect stop. Sister and brother duo Patricia and Sam Vlahos opened this American family pub last June and it has been busy ever since. Who has time to waste waiting for a table while trying to get in shopping? Just put your name in at Fuller House and they will text you when your table is ready. Can’t find parking in busy quaint Hinsdale? Fuller House also offers complimentary valet starting at 4:30. Now that we have the logistics figured out time to eat! Walking in we were welcomed by friendly staff and a warm ambiance. While waiting for our table to be cleared we decided to relax with a beverage at the bar. The bartender recommended the Bulleit Bourbon Blackberry Lemonade which didn’t disappoint. Fuller House offers 30 bottled beers, 12 on tap, a nice selection of Bourbon and Rye and a variety of wine. With all the visible TVs, the beverage and food selection this is the perfect place to leave the guys while gathering gifts. Starting with the interior décor to the food presentation and ingredients, Fuller House pays attention to detail. The service is wonderful and the food is prompt and hot. The nachos are a great introduction. This different but definitely better version begins with house made chips your choice of pulled pork, chicken, steak or brisket, then load on the pimento cheese sauce, pepper jack, white beans, pickled jalapenos and red onions, guacamole, pico de gallo and a fresh twist of cilantro lime crema. The Buffalo shrimp is accompanied by blue cheese crumbles, carrots, celery and ranch sauce. These shrimp have a bit of sass and a whole lot of flavor. The wood fired pizza crust was toasted perfectly and the medley of fresh mozzarella, basil, garlic, tomato sauce and evoo made this one of our favorite offerings. We made sure to save room for a burger with hand cut fries and animal sauce for dipping. Each half pound burger is a chuck, brisket and sirloin blend. The Day + Night burger with an over easy egg, neuske bacon, caramelized onion, white cheddar and garlic mayo is something that will bring you back! Fuller House takes their brownie ala mode to another level. A decadent dark chocolate brownie is covered in toasted marshmallows dusted with crushed graham cracker and ensconced in warm fudge sauce and topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A sweet ending to a wonderful day! ABOUT THE CRITICS Stephanie & Tiffany Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. #SavorySweetSisters

SAVORY & SWEET SISTERS | December 2015

PUB FARE REDEFINED With the holidays quickly approaching and so much to get done, my sister and I decided to do two of our favorite...

Read More

Latest Issue
March 2024

Glancer Magazine March 2024

Glance through the Pages

of Your Community Living Magazine Today! 

​

► March 2024 Issue, Western Suburbs

​

► DuPage Feature

► Kane Features

► Kendall Features

​

bottom of page