North Shore Views

Archive for the 'Living here' Category

Share the Love with the New Trier Food Pantry This Valentine’s Day

Living in an affluent area like the North Shore, we sometimes forget that not everyone is well-off. In fact there are a growing number of families right in our backyard who rely on the New Trier Food Pantry to be able to put food on their table.

So, when you’re out shopping for your Valentines, please share the love and pick up a few items for the Food Pantry. Here are some of the specific things they really need right now:

• toilet paper
• facial tissue
• paper towels
• canned fruit
• healthy snacks
• cookies and crackers
• cooking oil and condiments

What they DON’T need is Mac and Cheese or beans of any kind – they have enough to last a while.

You can take your donations directly to the Food Pantry at 739 Elm St. in Winnetka. Or drop them by our office (Coldwell Banker) at 568 Lincoln Ave. and we’ll deliver it. Go here to learn more about the New Trier Food Pantry.

“We cannot live only for ourselves.  A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.”  ~Herman Melville

Tags: New Trier Food Pantry, Valentine's Day

Wilmette Junior High Gets a State-of-the-Art Recording Studio

WJHS and the District 39 Educational Foundation will host an open house at 6:15 this Friday evening, February 3^rd to dedicate a new state-of-the art recording studio to be used by students at the Junior High.

Funding for the studio was provided by the District 39 Educational Foundation’s Paul Tilley Music Fund, which was established by Cristina Tilley in memory of her husband. “ The recording studio seemed like the perfect way to honor Paul’s memory, “ said Ms. Tilley.  “He was an exceptionally creative person who loved music.  I wanted to do something that would celebrate music and encourage our kids to express their creativity.”

The Foundation’s grant of approximately $15,000 covered the cost of the engineering console, computer equipment, keyboard, soundproofing and a number of professional microphones designed specifically for individual recording tasks – voice, drums and so on.  The recording software will be “ProTools,” an advanced program that is also used at New Trier High School’s recording studios.

Equipping the studio was done under the guidance of Steve Pont, a professional audio consultant who designs studios for music and advertising professionals. Stan Xidas, a D39 parent, musician and contractor, donated his time and expertise to retrofit an unused office into a studio. Another D39 parent, Tim Scherman, customized a “studio window” that directs the sound waves for optimum sound quality in the room.

The dedication of the recording studio is directly before the annual Youth Connection “Battle of the Bands”, which will be held this Friday at 7:30 pm at the Junior High. The Youth Connection has been an enthusiastic supporter of the studio from its inception and will be taking a leadership role in developing extracurricular uses for the studio.

Tags: Battle of the Bands, District 39 Educational Foundation, Wilmette Junior High School

Remodeling Projects with Highest Return on Investment

Remodeling Magazine recently released its 2011 Remodeling Cost to Value report, which shows the projects that tend to yield the highest return on investment. Gone are the days when huge kitchen remodels and additions would more than pay for themselves. These days the return has  people are opting for more modest improvements and replacement projects.

1. Replacing the entry door to steel

Estimated cost: $1,238

Cost recouped at resale: 73%

2. Attic bedroom (converting unfinished attic space into a bedroom with bathroom and shower)

Estimated cost: $50,148

Cost recouped at resale: 72.5%

Although this is an expensive project, it continues to provide high value, as it is a way to add a bedroom and bath within the existing footprint of the house.

3. Minor kitchen remodel (including new cabinets and drawers, counter tops, hardware, and appliances)

Estimated cost: $19,588

Cost recouped at resale: 72.1%

4. Garage door replacement

Estimated cost: $1,512

Cost recouped at resale: 71.9%

5. Deck addition (wood)

Estimated cost: $10,350

Cost recouped at resale: 70.1%

6. Siding replacement (vinyl)

Estimated cost: $11,729

Cost recouped at resale: 69.5%

Tags: remodeling

North Shore Theatre Guide: February 2012

Sirens

February 3 – March 4 at 8:00 pm (3:00 on Sundays)
Citadel Theatre’s West Campus, 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest

A romantic comedy starring the husband and wide team of Ellen and Scott Phelps. Call 847-735-8554 or visit www.citadeltheatre.org

The Bluest Eye

February 3-4 at 8 pm; January 29 and February 5 at 2 pm
Northwestern’s Josephine Louis Theatre, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston

Based on Tino Morrison’s first novel about a year in the life of a young black girl, named Pecola, in Lorain, Ohio, against the backdrop of America’s Midwest and the years following the Depression. Call 847-491-7282 or visit www.tic.northwestern.edu

Black Pearl Sings

Through February 19
Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie

Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Featuring E. Faye Butler. Tickets and showtimes.

The Girl in the Yellow Dress

Through February 26
Next Theatre Company, Noyes Cultural Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston

When Pierre, a French-Congolese pupil, signs up for English lessons with Celia, a beautiful young white teacher, they both get more than they bargained for. Set in contemporary Paris, this gripping new play explores the ways in which class, race, and language continue to divide us. Tickets and showtimes.

Legally Blonde: The Musical

Through April 1, 2012
Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire

When college sweetheart and sorority queen, Elle Woods, gets dumped by her boyfriend she is determined to get him back. So she grabs her Chihuahua, puts down her credit cards, hits the books and sets out to go where no other Delta Nu has gone before – to join him at Harvard Law School. The verdict is that this much fun should not be legal! From sunny California to the Harvard Halls of Justice this all-singing, all-dancing feel good musical will be the highlight of your year. Call 847-634-0200 or visit www.marriotttheatre.com

The Caretaker

Through March 25, 2012
Writer’s Theatre, 664 Vernon Ave., Glencoe

Aston brings Davies, a fast talking tramp, to his cramped home full of odds and ends—best characterized as junk—offering him a bed and a much needed place to get on his feet.  Davies quickly realizes that Aston and his brother Mick have a different take on the world around them.  From Aston’s constant puttering and half finished fix-it jobs to Mick’s grand plans for the future, the three become an unlikely trio desperately trying to connect but always missing the mark. Written by Harold Pinter. Go here for tickets and showtimes.

Tags: North Shore Theater, theatre guide

Wilmette Bicycle and Sport Shop

How is it that an old school retailer like the Wilmette Bicycle and Sports Shop can survive and even thrive in today’s big box world? That was the subject of a Today Show segment this week. Mike Leonard visited with his camera crew and interviewed proprietors Jim, Al and Larry , sons of Jim and John Versino, who founded the shop 80 years ago.

It may be a cramped and crowded throwback to an earlier day, but that doesn’t bother loyal patrons, who come to buy or repair bikes, sharpen their skates and order team uniforms for the local sports teams their children play for. They love the familiarity, personalized service, information and advice that’s freely given by the shop owners and their employees.

You can watch the TV segment here:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Tags: shopping in Wilmette, Wilmette Bicycle and Sport Shop

Family Fun on the North Shore – February 2012

It’s cold and gray out but there’s no snow for the kids to play in. What to do to keep them busy and happy? Here are some ideas…

Rapunzel

February 4 & 5 at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm
Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka

Most suitors would shy away from pursuing a girl who ives in a tower, especially if her mother is a witch. But that doesn’t deter one prince in Winnetka Theatre’s production of “Rapunzel.”  Geared to kids ages 3-10. Tickets $12. Call 847-604-0275.

From Bitter to Sweet : How Chocolate is Made

February 4 and 18 from 9:30-11:00 am or 1:00-2:30 pm
Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe

You and your kids will learn how chocolate is made from bitter cacao beans.  Participants will take home chocolate mint and chocolate pepper plants. Tickets: $22 per non-member child; discounted for members. Call 847-835-6801 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org.

History of Toy Trains V

February 4 11:00-3:00 and February 5 1:00-4:00
Highland Park Historical Society Museum, 326 Central Ave., Highland Park

A collection and operating layout of rare American Flyer and Lionel Standard Gauge trains built between 1910 and 1935. Tickets: $5 per person or $12 per family

Bunnicula – A Rabbit Tale of Mystery

February 4, 11, 18, 25 at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm
Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook

Chester the cat is convinced that the bunny that the Monroe family found at a screening of “Dracula” is actually a vampire. A musical comedy based on the classic children’s novel by James and Deborah Howe. This comic spoof of horror stories is not scary at all but a laugh-fest that will delight our audiences. Tickets: $8 in advance; $10 online or at the door. Call 847-291-2367 or visit www.nbparks.org

House Haunters!

February 9 and 10 at 7:00 pm and February 11 at 10:30 am
Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka

An original musical comedy presented by Winnetka Children’s Hour and performed by local children ages 5-14. This show is the story of three families who must spend the night  with some silly, mischievous ghosts in order to save a mysterious mansion. Call 847-784-0720 or visit www.winnetkachildrenshour.org.

Bingo Night

February 11 at 6:30 pm
Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka

Everyone will enjoy this annual event, complete with kid and adult beverages. Cost is $15 per person. Call 847-446-0537 or visit www.winnetkacommunityhouse.org

Mindy Hester and the Time-Outs

February 18 at 10:00 am
Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave, Wilmette

Mindy Hester and the Time-Outs perform kid-friendly rock. $10 in advance; $12 at the door

Ralph’s World

February 19 at 2:00 pm
Stevenson High School Performing Arts Center,

Rock and Roll for the entire family. Ralph’s World is the mega-fun musical planet where kids rock rock rock and dance dance dance to their own and their parents’ delight. It’s the creation of Ralph Covert: indie rocker, songwriter, playwright, and children’s book author. He’s taken the same high-energy and super-melodic sense that he developed for his touring pop-rock band to kid’s music- basically only the lyrics are changed for the ears of the innocent.  His McCartneyesque style (both musically and his sense of charm) has won him hundreds of thousands of three-feet-and-under fans and their parents.Tickets: $15 adults; $10 children. Call 847-415-4121 or visit www.d125.org/foundation

Sonic Sensation

through May 13
Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview.

An exhibit that allows children to explore sounds through interactive experiences. Eleven stations feature the anatomy and physics of how we hear, information about decibels, amplitude, frequency, pitch and sound waves, and what you can do to protect your hearing. (847) 832-6600. www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

Tags: Family fun on the North Shore, Things to do with kids

Electronics Banned from Illinois Landfills

Effective January 1, 2012, the Illinois Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act has banned from Illinois landfills. Electronic items such as TVs, computers, printers and monitors will no longer be allowed in the regular trash. You can see the entire list of banned electronics here.

You can donate them to a charitable organization if they are in good working order or take them to a retail store that accepts electronics for recycling. Otherwise you can take them to one of the following locations:

Cook County

Glenview Transfer Station
1151 N River Rd
Across from the Maryville Academy
Saturdays: 9:00 am – 11:30 am

Winnetka Public Works
1390 Willow Rd
Tuesdays: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursdays: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lake County

City of Highland Park (Firearms Training Center)
1180 Half Day Road
ONLY Tuesdays and Fridays  7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  (excluding holidays)
(fluorescent light bulbs, foam containers and packaging materials are also accepted at the Highland Park Electronic Collection)

Village of Round Lake (Public Works Facility)
751 W. Townline Road
Second Tuesday of every other month (March 13)
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

for more Lake County electronics recycling facilities go here.

Tags: electronics disposal, Recycling

Winnetka Community House Birthday Bash

The Winnetka Community House is celebrating its 100th birthday with a big House Party this Friday and word has it that it’s going to be a blast.

The menu will include pizza from the Homemade Pizza Company and Finch’s beer, as well as wine.  Dance to live music from Molly’s Suite 7.

When: Friday, January 27from 7:00-11:00 pm

Where: at the Community House, of course (620 Lincoln Ave.)

Tickets are in $50 in advance, or $65 at the door. Visit winnetkacommunityhouse.org for tickets.

Tags: Winnetka Communtiy House

Relocating to Chicago? How to Know if the North Shore is Right for You

If you are relocating to the Chicago area and are considering living in the suburbs, you have a lot of choices. Typically if you want to live close to the city or near the lake, you will pay more for your new home. As you go west and south you can generally find more affordable homes, bigger lots and more space for the money. It all depends on the lifestyle you are looking for, your priorities and the trade-offs you are willing to make. You should consider moving to the North Shore only if:

• You prefer classic old homes in established neighborhoods over newly built sub-divisions. Yes, of course you can find new construction on the North Shore, but most of the homes are older, especially in the communities along the lakefront. In many cases they have been fully renovated so you can have your cake and eat it too. You get the character and charm that comes with a vintage house, yet with all the modern conveniences of a new home.

• You love boating, fishing, sailing or going to the beach and are determined to be near the lake so that you can take full advantage of the waterfront.

• You want your kids to go to great schools. The North Shore is not unique in this regard. Many of the Chicago suburbs have excellent schools. But New Trier High School and all of its feeder schools continue to represent the gold standard when it comes to children’s education. New Trier’s athletic programs are top-notch, too.

• You are willing to pay a premium for a home on the North Shore. It’s one of the costliest places to live in the Chicago area but homes here tend to hold their value better than elsewhere. Even in a bad real estate market, where foreclosures and short sales run rampant, fewer than 1% of the homes on the North Shore are distressed properties.

If the North Shore sounds like where you’d like to live, we’d be happy to give you our signature “Tour of the Shore” so you can get a feel for the area and see if it measures up. We think it’s a great place to live and we love helping people who are relocating here discover all of the wonderful things that the North Shore has to offer. Just give us a call at 847-881-6657 or email us.  You can search for a North Shore home here.

Related articles:

• Top Ten Reasons to Move to the North Shore
• Where’s the Best Place to Live on the North Shore?
• 5 Reasons to Hire a North Shore Agent (if you’re moving to the North Shore)
• Comparison of North Shore communities

Tags: moving to the North Shore, relocation

North Shore Chicago’s Top 10 Highest Priced Home Sales of 2011

Anyone able to buy in the upper-bracket this past year got a pretty good deal, as top tier homes sold at a discount of 30-35% (or more) from prices at the height of the market. The ten North Shore homes that sold for the most money this past year ranged in price from $4,600,000 to $5,625,000, with an average sale price of $5,274,000. This year’s list includes three homes in Winnetka, one in Glencoe, one in Highland Park and five in Lake Forest. Four of them are lakefront properties. All of them are fabulous.

#10. 45 Lakewood Drive, Glencoe – $4,600,000

This lakefront home built in 1998 offers wonderful lake views from walls of windows. It has eighteen rooms and five bedrooms, one of which is a luxurious first floor master suite. Hopefully for the new owners the hefty tax bill of $182,000 will be appealed!

#9. 1141 Sheridan Road, Highland Park – $5,100,000

This sophisticated contemporary home sits on a spectacular 2.7 acre lakefront property with almost 300 feet of shoreline. Since the house is up on a bluff, there is a tram to take you down to the beach. Too cold to swim in the lake? No worries, there’s a 60 ft. indoor pool and spa. This home also features a screened porch off the master suite, lake views from almost every room and a 4-car garage.

# 8. 682 Ardsley Road, Winnetka – $5,100,000

Talk about a grand entrance! This imposing and classic home is only twelve years old, but it was designed to look like it’s been there for a century. Inside it has all the modern conveniences, including a DeGuilio kitchen, media room and wine cellar. Out back there is a patio, pool and pool pavilion in the lush private yard.

# 7. 722 Prospect Avenue, Winnetka – $5,150,000

This 12,000 square foot home is being constructed by Heritage Builders on an acre in East Winnetka. With seven large bedrooms and eight baths, this house also features a top-of-the-line kitchen, high-tech media room, library, porch and 3-car garage.

#6. 904 N. Green Bay, Lake Forest – $5,200,000

Designed by Howard Van Doren Shaw and built in 1910, this 5.4 acre estate is adjacent to open land and walking distance to town. A masterful renovation in 2001 blends historic grandeur with modern convenience, winning the Lake Forest Preservation Award. The home has sixteen rooms, eight bedrooms and nine baths and boasts a pool, lighted tennis courts and a 6-car garage.

#5. 1133 Taylorsport Lane, Winnetka – $5,375,000

Perched on a bluff above the ravines on the northern edge of Winnetka, this contemporary home has 230 feet of frontage on Lake Michigan and a deep sandy beach. Built in 1973, it was recently renovated and has an open floor plan with incredible lake views from virtually every room.

#4. 910 N. Green Bay Rd., Lake Forest – $5,490,000

This classic English manor house was built in 1911 but was extensively restored and renovated by Lake Forest Landmark Development. Set on a 2.4 acre estate, the house has seventeen rooms, seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms. It features custom details such as a Christopher Peacock kitchen, mahogany paneled library, nine fireplaces, a heated 4-car garage. There is also a gardener’s cottage on the grounds.

3. 111 E. Onwentsia Rd, Lake Forest – $5,500,000

This stately home looks old but was actually built in 2001. Beautifully situated on a four acre property, it elegant but also comfortable, with all the amenities you would want for today’s lifestyle, including a large master with sitting room, separate in-law apartment, 5-car garage and 7 fireplaces.

#2. 1345 N. Lake Rd, Lake Forest – $5,600,000

Built in 1908 this home was designed by noted architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. On 3.1 acres of waterfront property, this 11,000 square foot home has sixteen rooms, seven bedrooms and seven plus bathrooms.

#1. 1145 N. Green Bay Rd., Lake Forest – $5,625,000

This house is so picture perfect it almost looks like a movie set. Set on almost three beautifully landscaped acres this home was built in 1895 but completely renovated in 2001. It has twenty rooms, eight bedrooms and eleven baths, as well as six fireplaces and a five car garage.

If you’d like to see what upper bracket homes are available on the North Shore now, you can search here. Or give us a call at 847-881-6657 and let us know what you’re looking for. If it’s out there we’ll find it for you!

Tags: lakefront properties, Luxury homes, mansions