2016/03/01/7-spectacular-march-2016
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7 SPECTACULAR UPCYCLE GURUS TO KNOW    up·cy·cle  to reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of a higher quality or value than the original. /verb 
 
 "the opportunity to upcycle trash, or turn it into new products, was vast"   There it is– the definition you’ve been waiting for and it’s one of the hottest words trending right now in home decor. Here, we introduce you to seven upcycle gurus located throughout the western suburbs, each just as fabulous as the next   1. Velvet Grace In Oswego 
 
 Located in charming Oswego, not only will you love the new and upcycled treasures inside, but you’ll love their workshops, too. Offering Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint® in all 32 easily mixable colors. Experiment in the studio before you buy and or take a class to learn how to transform something old into something new.  Owned by Mary Blanchflower and Nicole Menard, both Oswego residents. www.velvetgrace.net   2. ST Too In St. Charles 
 
 If you love consignment furniture then you’ll love this place! Specializing in distinctive home and garden-related items and antiques located in a vintage building dating back to the 1850s. The shops mission is upcycling and repurposing quality used furnishings. From vintage to mid-century to modern, you’ll find it all here.  The owners, Stephen and Debra Phillips, also own Scentimental Gardens in downtown Geneva. 
 
 www.sgtoo.com   3. Nona Jo’s In Naperville 
 
 Offering a blend of home décor pieces, unique floral and more. It all started in 2004 when the owner’s garage transformed into a one-room shop featuring floral arrangements, painted furniture pieces and one-of-a-kind flea market finds and now the charming boutique is bigger than ever with countless unique new and upcycled finds. 
 
 www.nonajos.com   4. Boutique Repeats In Aurora 
 
 Designed with the customer in mind, this upscale resale shop buys, consigns and sells designer and better brand name everything, including home decor and furniture. Let them buy your high-end pieces, so you can go after that new must-have!  This hassle-free selling experience is in a boutique environment that carries new inventory daily. Appointments are recommended for a personal buying experience, but not necessary. www.boutiquerepeat.com   5. Vineyard Chic Kitchens In St. Charles 
 
 Acording to this upcycle guru, Pamela Coslet (pictured), “Greige” is the new beige. A perfect blend of “gray” and “beige”– it’s been on every social media site for the past year and HGTV has dubbed it “the hottest neutral”. Invite Vineyard Chic to reface or refinish your exisiting cabinets using the hottest Greige on the market. 
 
 www.vineyardchic.com   6. Roseland In Naperville 
 
 Simplification is the hot spring trend, according to Susan Fisher, Interior Desiger at Roseland Draperies. This spring I’m seeing lots of clean, neutral tones, accented by a bright pop of color. The feel of the homes is clean, bright and uncomplicated! Give an old furniture piece a new look with this fab designer. 
 
 www.roselanddraperies.com   7. Thrift & Dollar In Aurora 
 
 So you have a knack for upcycling but aren’t sure where to find unique pieces that are perfect for refinishing? Look no further than this local resale hot spot in the heart of Aurora. So much to choose from. Be ready to be on idea overload! 
 
 www.thriftandollar.com #7SpectacularList

7 SPECTACULAR | March 2016

7 SPECTACULAR UPCYCLE GURUS TO KNOW up·cy·cle to reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of a higher...

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PLEASING TO THE PALATE 
 
 It’s Friday evening and the Savory and Sweet Sisters are heading out for a double date, meeting in Elmhurst, the city that boasts it’s, “ideal for your business, your family, your life”.  There among the vibrant unique trades we find – Tannins.  Tannins is an intimate wine and beer lounge with cheese, small plates, sweet endings, and a retail area for bottles and gourmet foods.  Upon entering, we are welcomed with a warm smile and shown to an alcove by the window.  Owner Mike Allas describes Tannins specialty as “a great staff, great location and great wine”.  He is determined to urbanize the Chicago wine and beer lounge while gently educating customers.  The “Geekier”, hard to find wines are his aspiration.  The wine list, beer and cheese selections are impressive.  Mike and Cyndi Allas opened Tannins in February of 2016.  Previously a wine bar, they decided to take their passion for wine and food to the next level as new owners.  From our table by the window we watched as Tannins quickly filled up with customers, conversations and cocktails.  Live music permeated the air adding to the intriguing atmosphere.  So what brings people in?  Asking the couple next to us, Tim and Jana McNally moved here from Chicago.  They love getting a babysitter and mingling at Tannins.  Tim pointed out that Tannins has “the best craft cocktails in the suburbs!”  With that we began our first course.   We sipped a Fleur-de-lis; Tito’s vodka artfully mixed rhubarb grapefruit juice and lemongrass syrup.   The Gin Mule was refreshing with locally produced Letherbee Gin, the perfect smooth base.  Preferring a classic?  We recommend the Old Fashion with Bulleit Bourbon, Demerara syrup and house blend bitters.  Don’t pass up on the tasty tidbits to go along with these crafty cocktails.  Tannins procured soft pretzels from Winfield – they enjoy supporting local.  The Gnarly Knot pretzel melts in your mouth as does the Brun-Uusto.  The Scandinavian style bread cheese is served with waterwheel crackers and two spicy/sweet jams.  The next course – Wine and cheese!  Our personal favorite, who couldn’t make a meal out of wine, cheese and crackers?  Kim Crawford wines didn’t disappoint with the 2014 Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc.  For a red we recommend the 2013 Roth Estate Cabernet Sauvignon dark ruby in color, full body and a complex aroma.  These paired wonderfully with the suggested cheese platter of peppercorn gouda, Old Amsterdam and Ewephoria aged gouda.  The champagne cocktail of Laurent-Perrier a sugar cube and angostura bitters cleansed and enticed our palate.  Our final course consisted of beer and the most divine Bovetti dark chocolate with candied orange peel and nuts.  The Sculpin IPA, Founders Backwards Bastard and Speedway Stout were a nice finish to the night.. or so we thought.  We were surprised by a peanut butter chocolate milk stout, Absence of Light by 4 Hands Brewing Co.  What a sweet ending to our tasting journey at Tannins. A place you definitely should make a date with!  Tannins 
 
 112 N. York St., Elmhurst 
 
 (630) 834-4800 • www.tanninswine.com 
 
 Owners:  Cyndi and Mike Allas  ABOUT THE CRITICS  Stephanie (right) & Tiffany (left) 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 | March 2016

PLEASING TO THE PALATE It’s Friday evening and the Savory and Sweet Sisters are heading out for a double date, meeting in Elmhurst, the...

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HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU  Highlighting how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles that we face.    EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: Help! My high school age daughter has been so defiant lately. She won’t do her chores and she refuses to start looking for a job to prepare for summer. She recently got her license and we told her we’d like her to start paying  for her own gas money come summer. What can we do to prevent future stress and instill in her the value of a good work ethic? –Beth C., Geneva    Some teenagers feel the detachment of going away to college, getting older and having more responsibility. This can cause irritable behavior, anxiety and fear. Take a look at her academics, sports, music, volunteering and a host of other extra-curricular activities that might squeeze out the thought of a job. 
 
 Then to help reduce her anxiety and “the fighting” ask yourself, “Does she really understand what her priorities are, and how she is going to balance that?" Start by helping your teen decide whether part-time employment is right for her by having an honest discussion about her priorities. Set guidelines to measure whether or not her responsibilities around the house are being met. If not, her privileges may be revoked. Together develop a written plan and measure from there. It will always be a work in progress.   EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: Our beloved dog of 10 years passed away last summer. Our kids were devastated and they keep begging us for another one. Though we are not totally against the idea, my husband and I are downright fearful of the puppy stage now that the kids are older, plus our house is newly remodeled including new carpet and furniture. Worst parents ever or totally justified? Help!  -Lydia O., Wheaton    It's so hard to say no to your kids when they beg for a puppy. However, caring for an animal must be the most important consideration, and there are plenty of reasons why getting a puppy might not be appropriate. It's not being cruel; a dog can be a ten or fifteen year commitment. You should definitely say no to your kids regarding a puppy if you don't have the time to look after it. We all know “who” is taking care of that puppy. BUT if there a chance you are willing to surprise those kids with a puppy, sometimes you have to say… “Why Not!” There is plenty of love to go around! #ihavetwodogs   EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: My husband and our neighbor used to be great friends. They attended poker night together, coached football when our boys were little and our families were close. A falling out occurred over something we just do not understand – SPORTS – and they haven’t been able to get their friendship back on track. It is effecting my friendship with his wife, and of course our kids’ friendships too. Any advice on how we can help them mend fences? –Anonymous, Downers Grove    It's great to have good neighbors. But if the relationship breaks down, life can quickly become difficult for everyone. It's even more complicated when one spouse has a problem with a neighbor while the rest of the family remain friends. No matter what caused the falling out, it's best for everyone to repair the relationship. If your husband has an issue with the neighbor and you want them to rekindle their friendship, help him remember the good times they had. It might be helpful to determine the root cause and remind both of them that their actions are having an impact on both families and can seem selfish. It may be possible that time and space is needed. Try to remain cordial as time passes, the outcome will become clearer. 
       ABOUT THE WRITER  Joann Pierce is a wellness and fitness enthusiast who is living a lifestyle she never thought was possible. She’s been a stay-at-home Mom for 12 years and started in fitness years ago– from kickboxing to yoga. Continuing her journey in 2011, she completed her 200hr Yoga Certification at Prairie Yoga in Lisle. With over 1000 teaching hours, she completed her associate Life Coach Certification in 2013 and became a Beachbody Coach. Joann Pierce #phase40 Fitness, Empowering you is what we do. Beachbody Coach, Life Coach, RYT 200hr Yogi • www.phase40fitness.com FB: Joann Pierce 
 
 joannpierce@phase40fitness.com

EVERYDAY STRUGGLES | March 2016

HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU Highlighting how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles that...

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ARE YOU READY FOR SOME ADVENTURE.... Back by popular demand, we are bringing new life to this old feature favorite. Life 
 
 is short and that’s why we encourage you to make 2016 a year of traveling fun! 
 
 Watch for this column highlighting Trendy Travel Hot Spots in each monthly issue.....  TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #1: Dog Bark Park Inn, Idaho - Airbnb 
 
 We’ve heard some unique stories about Airbnb rental and one thing we know for sure, it has fast become known as the trendy way to travel low-key and economical, not to mention it offers some pretty unique places to stay. From a houseboat rental in Copenhagen or a real-life Scottish castle, to a bamboo eco cottage in Bali or a bubble under the stars in France, whatever your definition of unique is, Airbnb’s one-of-a-kind options are endless. But being that we are west suburbanite midwesterns, I thought I’d keep it closer to home and invite you to learn more about this odd-shaped inn located in Idaho.   
 
 Quirky and off-the-wall unique, this peculiar, dog-shaped home is located at the edge of Cottonwood in rural Idaho, offering expansive views of prairie grain fields and surrounding mountains which I’ve learned are specatcular at any time of year. The area offers many things to do such as scenic drives, museum fun and outdoor activities including jet-boat tours, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, nature hikes and more. The homeowners are happy to provide a list of fun things to do for their guests, so don’t be afraid to ask. After all, it’s not everyday that you venture out to Cottonwood, Idaho.  You’ll love browsing the adjacent Dog Bark Park visitor center, gift shop and artist studio where owners Dennis & Frances fashion canine carvings by chainsaw. It just doesn’t get more unique that that. The beagle-shaped home sleeps 4 and just in case you were wondering, yes, dogs are permitted. Average price: $98/night. www.airbnb.com, search “Dog Bark Park Inn B&B”    TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #2: 
 
 The House On the Rock, Wisconsin 
 
 Charming, unique, and filled with history, this Spring Green, Wisconsin gem is truly a must-visit. The House on the Rock began in 1945 when a man named Alex Jordan had a towering goal: to build a retreat as awe-inspiring as the view from the rock upon which the House would eventually be built. What took shape is a truly remarkable achievement. Perched on a 60-foot chimney of rock, the house and surrounding exhibit buildings are famous for their architecture features; collection of armor; jeweler's art pieces; room-size musical instruments; doll house collections; replicas of the Tower of London's crown jewels; four-story sea monster; animated circus orchestra; and the world's largest carousel with more than 20,000 lights and 269 real and mythical creatures. The House on the Rock is open year round and offers different experiences depending on the time of year. The days of week, hours of operation and portions of the tour that are open vary depending on the experience. www.thehouseontherock.com 
  #TrendyTraveler #March2016 #TravelLeisure #LindyKleivo #GlancerMagazine

TRENDY TRAVELER | March 2016

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME ADVENTURE.... Back by popular demand, we are bringing new life to this old feature favorite. Life is short and...

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MAKING MARCH PURPOSEFUL WHEATON / GLEN ELLYN AREA – Freezing temps aside, let’s focus our attention inward & into our living spaces. First, you deserve a charming & inviting place to entertain & call home.   Marcel’s on Main St. in Glen Ellyn will appeal to your 5 senses.  Their environment offers a visual, tangible, fragrant, acoustic & tasteful shopping experience.  Marcel’s is your kitchen gadget, dining room accessory & hostess gift destination.     Kitchens are typically the 1st room we see upon entering one’s home.  The aroma of comfort food emanating offers a retreat from daily stressors.  Upon entering Marcel’s, I was offered a complementary espresso.  The caffeine invigorated my taste buds.  The  atmosphere was conducive to shopping.  The employees were helpful & attentive.  I purchased bright, eye catching kitchen towels.  The fine prints involve owls, sly foxes & colorful flowers.  Each will be a fabulous host(ess) gift when visiting friends & family.    For those looking to be eco-conscious this “green” month a place to visit is SCARCE.  It’s nestled here in Glen Ellyn.  My sons’ Cub-Scout group enjoyed an educational field trip there. The School & Community Assistance for Recycling & Composting Education offers in school & on-site workshops.  Volunteers showed us how they repurpose broken crayons & buttons.  Also keeping books, maps, magazines, etc. out of landfills.  Try to find items in your home that be recycled.  Instead of buying new, consider how an item you already own can be upcycled.  I am reading a book titled “The 100 Simple Secrets of Happy People” & thanks to the Wheaton Public Library am borrowing it for free.  David Niven writes “people who are satisfied - appreciate what they have in life & don’t worry about how it compares to others.”   Dr. Niven also feels:  “we are happier when all the pieces in our life are generally in good shape.  Improving one area we care about can lessen the chance of everything falling apart.”  Contemplating this message, I made an appointment to do something for my well-being. Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa in Wheaton at 146 Danada Square West was my healing destination.  The peppermint scalp massage was truly invigorating.  The cold stone face treatment was rejuvinating.  Amanda is excellent way with her abilities to provide maximum health benefit.  A lavender aroma filled the room.  Next month I’ll try their Heavenly Hand Therapy.  Happy St. Patricks Day!   ABOUT THE WRITER  Kathy Ruggio lives in the Stonehedge neighborhood of Wheaton with husband Michael & 9 year old son Angelo.  She seeks Vitamin D via daily sun exposure, rare finds at local stores, shopping for Christmas year round & making unique jewelry for friends using Scrabble pieces.  Kathy’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Jolly Old Soles.    “Phyllis Parise founded this organization.  I see first-hand how she helps people locally and globally.  No one should be without shoes.  She sends them to the Philippines and right here to schools in Aurora. Learn more at www.jollyoldsoles.com 
  #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Wheaton/Glen Ellyn, March 2016

MAKING MARCH PURPOSEFUL WHEATON / GLEN ELLYN AREA – Freezing temps aside, let’s focus our attention inward & into our living spaces....

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BOOKIES, BUNCO & MORE IN THE TRI-CITIES AREA –  If you were to place a bet with my Uncle Deno the Bookie, (God rest his soul, fabulous Bookie that Deno) on what the odds were finding Theoni at Starbucks on Saturday morning….eh, it doesn’t take the expertise of a gambling man to give you the answer.  Odds run 98%. Odds of Theoni buying coffee for the person behind her in the drive thru?  Well that is calculated on age, make and model of the driver.  “Cougar in a red Bug bought my Starbucks today.” Not happening. Today I was in a “let’s shake things up kind of mood.”  So I suggested we try “…the place that starts with an “A” in downtown St. Charles.” I didn’t know how to pronounce it, let alone spell it.  Arcedium, locally owned and locally FABULOUS! You’re a cross between a Starbucks and Panera only better.  Breakfast and lunch made from scratch, beans imported from around the world and roasted in that monstrosity of a roaster that only the Great Oz could possibly know how to operate. Coffee custom crafted to your liking, French press, siphon, pour over.  With its high tops, low tops, counter tops, comfy leather seating, even the private room; Arcedium was packed. Even an open Mic night every 3rd Friday. Catch me next month April 15th, reciting a poetic version of my column for (large) charitable contributions. Bring your checkbook. On March 10th the Geneva Woman’s Club will host its 2nd annual Bunco Night dedicated to raising scholarship money for Geneva HS Seniors. All are welcome! Tickets are $26 and include door prizes, appetizers, desserts and a cash bar.  Plan on meeting new people all night long as you rotate tables learning this easy fun game.  It will be held at American Legion, Geneva. Home of the Brave and Cutest Bartenders in town.  For more details visit www.genevawomensclub.org. The 10th also marks the opening of the Geneva Film Festival, view the work of independent filmmakers from around the globe!  Films for the whole family.  Finally, calling all Brides and Bridezillas alike!  Batavia Park District will be hosting its first ever Bridal Showcase, March 5th at historic Shannon Hall.  This event is free and will feature approximately 35 vendors from the Tri Cities area and beyond.  It’s one stop shopping for local caterers, flowers, transportation, music, venues, travel, and more.  The first 50 brides will receive a free swag bag.  Spring is here – enjoy and discover something new! 
 ABOUT THE WRITER Theoni Limouris is a graduate of of St. Cloud State University. She credits her degree in Education for setting her up to succeed in both the classroom and Corporate America.  As a busy wife and mother of 2, you will find her buzzing around the Tri-Cities in her VW Beetle watching people slug each other all day long. Theoni’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is CASA Kane County, an organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the Juvenile Court system. Learn more at 
 
 www.casakanecounty.org. #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Tri-Cities, March 2016

BOOKIES, BUNCO & MORE IN THE TRI-CITIES AREA – If you were to place a bet with my Uncle Deno the Bookie, (God rest his soul, fabulous...

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GET ROCKIN' 
 
 Show Bret Some Love 
 
 Plan a super fun GNO and head to Arcada Theater in St. Charles on March 10 to see Bret Michaels. You know him best as the lead vocalist of the 80’s glam metal band Poison that sold over 45 million records worldwide and 15 million records in the United States alone. This guy rocks! Sing along to Every Rose Has Its Thorn and other favorites at one of the hottest musical venues in the suburbs. Tickets start at $49.  www.oshows.com 
             BE CRAFTY 
 
 With a Glassy Touch 
 
 Breaking glass is easy, but slicing it takes a subtle touch. Luckily, glass-cutting is one of the many skills taught by Gallery's Choice's staff of skilled artisans. Students of all ages can learn how to make stained-glass artworks, how to create colorful jewelry, and how to fuse glass rather than just holding pieces together with rubber banding. Located in Downers Grove www.galleryschoice.com    
         EARTH LOVE 
 
 Party for the Planet 
 
 Celebrate the wonders of the natural world and learn how you can help to keep it safe at Wheaton’s Cosley Zoo on April 23. Environmentally friendly organizations and business will be onsite to educate party goers about how we can make a big difference in our community. Visit with your favorite animals, and be a part of the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America. www.cosleyzoo.org                  YUMMY TREATS!  Sweet Fun for All Ages 
 
 If you’re looking for a unique place filled with yummy treats, we found just the spot– this sweet stop in South Naperville where the owners invite you to transport back in time and enjoy retro goodies and flavorful nostalgic treats from yesteryear, along with super cool hard-to-find treats. The shop is filled with many delights including a variety of nostalgic candy, gourmet popcorn, cotton candy and fine chocolates. This place has it all. I mean, where else can you find Cheesy Pizza Popcorn and Old fashioned soda pops all under one roof. Enjoy! Cheryls’ Popcorn • www.cherylscandynpopcorn.com   #OnTheFunFront

ON THE FUN FRONT | March 2016

GET ROCKIN' Show Bret Some Love Plan a super fun GNO and head to Arcada Theater in St. Charles on March 10 to see Bret Michaels. You...

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March 2016 – GET READY FOR A HEART PUMPING EXPERIENCE 
 
 Music blasting, lights flashing, heart pumping, pulse racing, ready for our next mission.  The alarm sounds and we creep around in the darkness peering around the corners of each room, all the while protecting our force field and targeting the enemy.   This was not your mother’s typical laser tag.  As each game ended, we began another with a new mission and a totally different experience.   Competitions included team work, strategy, and sometimes individual domination.  Missions included Elimination, Jail Break, Judge Dredd, Swat, Domination, Espionage, and more - totaling nearly 25 different ways to play.  Moms, dads, 20s, 30s - groups of tweens, teens, girls, boys – go with pretty much any age, any gender, and enter into a world of live action Call of Duty™; I guarantee there will be no whining, complaining or eye rolling for as long as you are inside the Massacre Haunted House playing Tactical Laser Tag.  Don’t be leery of the name - it’s not scary as in haunted house scary, it just happens to be inside the now permanent location of Massacre Haunted House.  Tactical Laser Tag is like traditional laser tag on steroids!  So much variety with each new mission!   I think our personal favorite was trying to eliminate the best player of our group in a challenge called, Judge Dredd.  Our simple task was to take out “Mr. Clean” who had dominated every mission of our day.  It was ten of us against one “Mr. Clean”.  Our only job was to take him out.  We each had three lives and he had fifty.  It seemed like a simple undertaking since there were many against one.  We lost – “Mr. Clean” ruled again!  We will be back!  -Kristen Kucharski  Overview 
 
 Imagine stepping into video games such as Call of Duty™ or Battlefield™ and becoming part of the story. Forget about paintball, airsoft, or traditional laser tag. iCOMBAT uses the very realistic irTactical system, currently deployed with police and military personnel around the world.  Massacre Tactical Laser Tag 
 
 299 Montgomery Road 
 
 Montgomery, IL 60538 
 
 (708) 320-3327 
 www.massacrelasertag.com  Hours 
 
 Monday-Wednesday (Private Events); Thursday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday Noon-11 p.m.; Sunday Noon-9 p.m.  Price $ 
 
 $15 includes 3 missions (Additional Missions $5 or 3 Additional Missions for $10); or Pay by the Hour $30/Hour Unlimited Missions.  Group Discounts Available.  #GlancerMagazine #KidsTeens #MomsLittleBlackBook #KristenKucharski #FeaturedBlog #March2016 #MBBSportsRecreation

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | Live Action Call of Duty™

March 2016 – LIVE ACTION CALL OF DUTY™
Music blasting, lights flashing, heart pumping, pulse racing, ready for our next mission.  The alarm

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3 PINOTS WALK INTO A BAR.... 
 
 I wish I could think of a cleaver punch line but the point is there is a lot more Pinots than Noir out there. How about Gris (or Grigio)? Blanc? Meunier? You get the point and with genetic mutation many of these are possible. I’ll focus on some of my favorites. 
 
 Pinot Gris: Gris meaning “grey” has characteristics of lime, green apple, lemon, pear, white peach, ginger and spice just to name a few. They tend to be rich, honeyed, and round. Although there are different styles of Gris I love to pair it with super fresh fish – Sushi is perfect! 
 
 Pinot Blanc: Is a genetic mutation from Pinot Noir and generally are full-bodied wines. From Alsace and Italy they tend to be a dryer white wine while in Germany and Austria they can be either dry or sweet. They offer fruity and floral aromas with stone fruits and minerality. Blanc pairs deliciously well with cheese based dishes, chicken in light sauces, and pasta. 
 
 Pinot Noir: When someone orders a Pinot at a restaurant generally they are asking for the Noir – the most known of Pinots and quite honestly there is so much information regarding the grape including the variations in styles from countries, tasting profiles, etc. Some general characteristics include cranberry, cherry, raspberry, vanilla, clove, cola and tobacco. Light to almost medium in body this can be rather versatile pairing with food. One of my favorites is duck, perhaps a Peking duck? Yes!  So whether you like red or white, Pinot is right. 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 
  #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #TheChicagoWino #EricMcMillan #March2016 #FeaturedBlog

THE CHICAGO WINO | March 2016

3 PINOTS WALK INTO A BAR.... I wish I could think of a cleaver punch line but the point is there is a lot more Pinots than Noir out...

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WELCOME MARCH IN NAPERVILLE –  March madness is upon us! In my house that means two things. One, blindly fill out a college basketball tournament bracket and dream about what I’ll do with all my winnings. Two, I begin the spring cleaning process of sorting, tossing and re-evaluating every living space in our house. Trust me, it quickly turns into madness.    This year a sorta-major renovation is being planned for our home. My goal is to make our home work for our evolving family. Tweens that need their own space and parents that need better utilized space.  
 
 First things first, look to organize. Clear out the clutter, load up the truck and head to the Goodwill Donation Center (539 Fort Hill Dr). It’ll do your heart good. There are also many online garage sale sites these days to try and sell your outgrown toys, flower pots, dressers and dresses. Try www.bookoo.com (Naperville Yard Sales) or the app OfferUp and you may make enough for some new clutter!   Once everything is cleared out, time to focus on what you NEED. For some inspiration, timeless classics, and hometown customer service take a walk around Beidelman Furniture (239 S. Washington St.) in downtown Naperville. Now, be careful, you may want to redo every room in your home when you walk through their doors. We’re (sorta) done with yogurt spills on the couch and Goldfish between every cushion. A walk through a lovely furniture store makes me yearn for shiny furniture and plush chairs to sink into.     Have a few hours to wander for treasure? Head to Affordable Antiques & More (1508 N. Naper Blvd.). This store is not for the faint of heart. Walk the various vendor stalls and find one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. Skip the cookie cutter baskets and bins for vintage crates and metal baskets. Have a piece in your home worthy of a facelift? Affordable Antiques is your go-to place for chalk paint and all its possibilities.    Whether you’re looking for  new, old, inspiration or validation, Naperville has what your home needs. Clean out those closets and enjoy March Madness as we toy with warmer temps and get teased by Spring.  Because as soon as the sun shines and the ground thaws we’ll ditch those cluttered cabinets for our gardens in a heartbeat.   ABOUT THE WRITER Katie Manker of Naperville is a wife, small business owner, sister, daughter and friend, but first and foremost she’s Mom to her red-headed mafia. You’ll find her driving the activities bus by day, and laughing and enjoying her family and friends by night. Katie’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Sgt. Tommys Kids. Learn more at www.sgttommyskids.org #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Naperville, March 2016

WELCOME MARCH IN NAPERVILLE – March madness is upon us! In my house that means two things. One, blindly fill out a college basketball...

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NEW MEANING TO MARCH MADNESS IN DOWNERS GROVE –  I am ready for March Madness.  And not the basketball tournament.  This always feels like the longest month of the year to me.  Winter is not quite over and Spring seems like weeks away.  My motto continues to be the days are long, but the years are short.  I think I heard that on an AT&T commercial once. 
 
 One thing many of us have to look forward to this month is Spring Break.  For years when we went on vacation we left our sixth family member, Zippy, in the good hands of Doggie Depot located at 635 Rogers Street in Downers Grove.  Brian and Colleen, the owners, have built an incredible place for dogs to come and play for daycare or overnight “camp” as we like to call it.  If you are headed out this break, be sure to check them out for your furry friend. 
 
 I remember seeing the band Sixteen Candles at when I was a youngin’ living downtown.  The long wait is over to see them again.  The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 is hosting its annual spring concert, ‘80s Night with Sixteen Candles, at the Tivoli Theater on Thursday, March 10 at 7:30pm.  General Admission tickets can be purchased for $35 at www.58foundation.org/16candles.  All proceeds from the show will benefit the Education Foundation programs.  Like, totally awesome. 
 
 Interested in joining a pool this summer and doing some research on these gloomy days?  Check out The Downers Grove Swim and Racquet Club at www.dgsrc.net.  We have been members for the last five years and this pool has become a daily ritual for us all summer long.  They offer swim and tennis lessons and teams, but honestly I just like it due to the proximity as well as safety.  We have outgrown the baby pool (finally), but the pool is manageable to watch multiple kids at once.  Doors open Memorial Day.  Swing by and check it out.  
 
 Call me Captain Obvious, but there is only one place to head to on St. Patrick’s Day-  Ballydoyle Irish Pub in downtown Downers Grove.  Doors open at 8am for Kegs and Eggs followed by several bands and acts including the McNulty Irish Dancers.  Admittedly, I have never made it to the Kegs and Eggs portion, but I have been able to swing by for lunch the last few years and been able to partake in some Irish Cheer.   ABOUT THE WRITER  Anne Healy has lived in Downers Grove for the last eight years with her husband Tom and three children.  Beyond attempting to find the latest local fun spots for Glancer Magazine readers, you can find Anne coaching soccer, teaching Junior Achievement within District 58, or telling her three kids to “slow down”. Anne’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Hopes Front Door.  The organization helps countless individuals and their families in Downers Grove and neighboring communities by providing emergency assistance to those in need.  This summer, the organization sponsored a Backpack Drive for students in the area enabling hundreds of students to start this school year with supplies they need.  www.hopesfrontdoor.com. #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Downers Grove, March 2016

NEW MEANING TO MARCH MADNESS IN DOWNERS GROVE – I am ready for March Madness. And not the basketball tournament. This always feels like...

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