It’s no secret that any water that’s pooled in any part of your home will cause nothing but problems. And if there are drainage issues in your home, you’ll likely experience these problems pretty quickly. That’s why it’s critical that any drainage issues be nipped in the bud before they turn into total catastrophe. Yet while some issues are obvious, other’s aren’t.

To save yourself the headache and the money trying to fix major problems that arise as a result of poor drainage in your home, keep an eye out for any one of the following 6 red flags.

1. Water Stains

One of the most telling signs that there’s an issue with the drainage in your home is water stains. Whether they’re on the walls, ceilings, or floors, any water stains are surface signs that something awry is lurking where you can’t see.

The location of the water stain will also be an indication of whether or not the problem is the result of surface water, or water moving underground, the latter of which is typically a much bigger problem. If the stain creates a line around the basement, it’s more likely the result of a moving water table. In this case, inquiring about basement waterproofing might be warranted after the issue has been rectified.

2. Spewing Gutters

If you notice that your gutters are running like a raging river, there’s probably something obstructing the free flow along the gutters. Even if you don’t actually see the water gushing out of the gutters, you can still tell this is happening if the grass or dirt at the opening of the gutters seems like it’s been dug out by powerful flows of water, or if you notice mud splatter marks on the exterior walls near the gutters. If this problem persists, you could be dealing with rotted exterior siding or even structural damage.

3. Downspouts That Dump Too Much Water Near the Foundation

The basement of your home can become flooded with water if your downspouts are dumping hoards of rainwater too close to the foundation. As such, the water will make its way into the basement and wreak havoc on the basement walls, floors, and any items you have in the water’s way.

If the downspouts are too short, they can literally dump gallons of water around the foundation walls of your home. As the water is soaked in by the soil, it puts pressure on the walls, and eventually causes them to crack. Adding gutter extensions that help carry the water a minimum of 5 feet away from your foundation walls can really help.

4. Mold in the Attic

The presence of mold in your attic is a sure sign that there’s a drainage problem with your home. It may sound odd that drainage issues can actually show signs of trouble way up in that part of the house, but moisture from the water in the basement can rise up through your home. The bathroom fans and vents will then blow hot, damp air right into the attic space, which can cause mold and mildew when it condenses on the colder side of the roof. Failure to deal with this issue early on can lead to rotted roof sheathing and shingles, which would then need to be replaced.

5. Crusting on Basement Walls

Any flaking or crusting on your basement walls could very well be a sign that your home’s drainage is inadequate. This crusting is caused by the mineral deposit residue that is left behind after water has evaporated and condenses. This might not necessarily be a huge problem if these deposits go no deeper than half an inch. Any more than that, however, could spell real trouble that may involve a compromised foundational structure.

6. Cracks on the Foundation Wall

It’s normal for foundation walls to experience cracks over the years as the house settles after being built. However, any cracks that are very wide – over 1/8 of an inch – or that are uneven might need a closer look into what could be causing them. It might very well be a drainage problem behind these cracks. If that’s the case, you’ll need to find out what exactly is behind the inadequate drainage and fix it.

The Bottom Line

If you notice any one of the above signs, you should deal with them immediately. A qualified plumber or structural engineer will be able to suggest the best course of action to fix the problem before it gets any worse. Identifying drainage problems when they’re not as serious and are easier to rectify can save you a lot of hassle and thousands of dollars over the long haul.

One hallmark of every holiday season is the performance of ‘The Nutcracker.’ For 130 years,  Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet has been a Christmas tradition everywhere.

Now, thanks to the company that gave us ‘Immersive Van Gogh’ and ‘Immersive Mozart,’ the magic that is West Town’s Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, 108 W. Germania PIace, brings Chicagoans ‘Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle.’  The show runs from Friday, November 24 through Sunday, January 7.

The Story of ‘The Nutcracker’ 

As the Chicago Loop Alliance describes it, ‘The Nutcracker’ is based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s 1816 fairy tale ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.’ 

As Smithsonian Magazine recounts, the story involves a little girl, Marie (some who follow the ballet may know her as Clara), who, through the conjuring of her godfather, Herr Drosselmeier, is given a nutcracker doll who becomes a prince, (as well as) a Christmas tree that grows like Jack’s beanstalk, toy soldiers battling mice, and a blizzard,” wrote Laura Jacobs for Vanity Fair. “Act Two alights in the Land of Sweets, where the Sugarplum Fairy reigns.” 
Sweeping music features iconic selections like “The March of the Toys” and “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” as they are immersed in holiday wonder. 

The Nutcracker has become a holiday classic, taking the form of ballets, films and more. 

Expansive Technology 

The Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle is the newest rendition of this timeless classic, using the latest projection mapping technology. According to their website, the 30-minute, immersive experience of whimsical animated characters alongside footage of professional ballet dancers is composed of over 1 million frames of video across 500,000 cubic feet, captivating audiences from opening scene to the epic finale. 

Lighthouse Immersive was founded in 2019 by Toronto-based producers, Corey Ross and Svetlana Dvoretsky and Toronto-based developer – Slava Zheleznyakov, Lighthouse Immersive is the first experiential entertainment multi-plex, aiming to cultivate community and creativity through large-scale events and exhibitions of all art forms. For tickets and information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

If you’re taking on Thanksgiving this year, don’t panic! With some organization you can pull this off with a minimum of fuss. From getting the house ready to the actual meal, here are some guidelines and handy tips to make everything go smoothly:

Get help. Now is the time to get a little help! A house cleaning service is not as expensive as you think. It’s worth the money to have the house cleaned professionally before guests arrive. Ask friends and family for referrals or maybe your friendly neighborhood Realtor! If guests offer help, take it. From appetizers, liquor, or side dishes, you’ll be happier if you accept the help. I often ask people to bring drinks and desserts. There’s more variety that way and it really helps. 

Create a list. Next is your master list. I am a paper person, so I use a yellow legal pad. Of course, your phone or a tablet will work well too. The first list will be the menu, including everything from appetizers, drinks and snacks to every menu item for dinner. On the first column on the left list every dish. Next column write down everything needed to prepare the dish. Include everything like spices and herbs too. This will be your shopping list. Now is a good time to buy fresh spices and dried herbs. They are always the best fresh, so this is the time to buy.  Highlight items you need to purchase. Shop for all your non-perishables early. If using a frozen turkey, give yourself enough time for safe thawing. A large bird can take several days. Shop for perishables 2 days before. 

Organize. Take your menu list and organize all pots, pans and utensils needed for preparation. It’s not good to need another pot on Thanksgiving morning! All the stores have these items on sale now, along with dishes and serving pieces. Next, organize the table. Clean off the dining room table and put every serving dish you will need there. Appetizers, snacks, and all menu items with serving tools for each. Add plates, glassware and utensils for each guest. Cover with a clean sheet to keep the dust off. 

Prepare drinks. If you are having cocktails, arrange a bar area on a decently sized table. Include mixers along with 3 or 4 different bottles of liquor. Glassware including wine, rocks and tall glasses for mixed drinks. Use a nice ice bucket for drinks. Keep beer and soda in a cooler with ice. Most of this can be set up early in the week and again covered to keep clean. 

Schedule and time everything. Prepare your day by scheduling at least a week ahead. Make note of every menu item, what time it needs to be started and when it will be done. Some things can be prepared early and either frozen or kept in the refrigerator. Dips, rolls, vegetable dishes, stuffing, casseroles and appetizers can all be made days in advance. For example, mashed potatoes can be prepared and kept warm in a slow cooker, just add a little hot cream and butter before serving. Many items cooked in the morning can be warmed in the microwave just before serving. 

If you want to get through this holiday stress free, be as organized as possible! Don’t forget to accept help from others, before and on the big day. Many hands make light work as the old saying goes. You should be able to have some fun too and enjoy the day with your guests. Does anyone else have holiday hints for a smooth and fun day?  

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Before we get started with this weekend’s activities, let’s take a moment to thank and honor all the veterans who have served, and are serving, so honorably in the military in times of war and peace as this Saturday is Veterans Day.  So, the City of Chicago invites one and all to attend its Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony this Saturday (11 a.m.-1 p.m. – doors open at 10 a.m.) at Soldier Field’s 1^st Floor United Club (1410 S. Special Olympics Dr.) in the South Loop to honor both local and national veterans.  The keynote address will be delivered by retired U.S. Navy Admiral Cecil D. Haney.  Members from each branch of the U.S. military as well as civic leaders will be represented.  Plus, the program includes an honor guard, live music from the Navy Band Great Lakes, and other keynote remarks.

Here’s the line-up for the remainder of the weekend!

Chicago’s French international school will be transformed into a lively Parisian marketplace for its 19^th annual Lycée French Market this Saturday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) located at 1929 West Wilson Avenue in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.  Besides the 60+ local and French vendors selling their fine and decorative arts, apparel, accessories, jewelry, home décor, gourmet foods and more, guests can also enjoy the market’s famous French Bistro offering a delicious menu of authentic French food, wines, and pastries.  Plus, there’s a variety of entertaining activities for all ages as this market is open to all!

Entertaining this holiday season?  Well, you might find these two events helpful:

Chicago’s best distillers, mixologists, and sommeliers will be on hand for the Spirits & Wine Fest with Artisan Creations this Saturday (12 p.m.-7 p.m.) at Plumbers Hall (1350 W. Washington Blvd.) in the West Loop.  Dozens of vendors will be offering wine and liquor tasting sessions with complimentary artisan chocolate samples and other specialty treats.  Plus, new this year, is ready to drink cocktails which have become the fastest-growing popular beverage of choice.  A ticket includes tastings, samples of artisanal chocolates and foods, demonstrations, and more!

Chicago’s year-round rooftop is hosting the Godfrey Wine Fest this Saturday (1 p.m.-5 p.m.) at the I/O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge (127 W. Huron St.) in the River North neighborhood.  With panoramic skyline views, fire pits, and shimmering water elements, this location is perfect for your 4 hours of tastings, giveaways, and more.  And, with so many options to try, you’re sure to find something for your holiday party to impress your family and friends!

In the mood to giddy up instead?  Then purchase a ticket to the Old Crow’s Country Day Party this Saturday (1 p.m.-6 p.m.) at the Old Crow Smokehouse (3506 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  Your ticket gets you admission, a complimentary welcome beer, a shot of whiskey, a live performance by Sunfallen, giveaways, and much more!

Thank You Veterans for Protecting Our Freedoms so we have Weekends to Enjoy with Our Loved Ones!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

The temperatures may be dropping, but a beautiful view of Chicago is year-round, thanks to restaurants perched high atop Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers.

Take, for example, Cindy’s, on the 13^th Floor (no room for superstition here!) of the Chicago Athletic Association. 

Previously a club-only option, the restaurant overlooks Millennium Park through a glass-topped atrium.

I’ll agree with their assessment that it’s a remarkable backdrop for Chopped Grand Champion and Executive Chef Kaleena Bliss‘ inspired menu, featuring local wild and seasonal produce and fresh seafood. 

For starters, try their STRIPED BASS AGUACHILE  with Aji Amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili pepper), coconut milk, and ginger, cucumber, pickled shallot, sorrel, Nori and sesame rice crisp, or a CHILLED KING CRAB & LOBSTER SALAD, with soy ginger aioli with mint, scallion, celery, cucumber, citrus pickled fresno chile, radish, and toasted Nori. Or their GRILLED EGGPLANT SALAD with green beans, shaved radish, mint, miso Tahini vinaigrette, eggplant puree, Fromage Blanc, and  crispy shallot.

Some of their imaginatively prepared entrees include a POTATO GNOCCHI, served with ramps & mint pesto, with foraged mushrooms, asparagus, green bean, cashew cream, and parmigiano. PRAWNS NAYARIT are served with cherry tomato, cucumber, pickled Cipollini onion, fish sauce, lime, cilantro, and grilled sourdough. TROUT has warm gazpacho, pickled plum, roasted Cippolini onion and fennel.

Not to be missed are unique desserts like their ROASTED CORN PANNA COTTA with candied corn, maple glazed pecans, five-spice caramel, and brown butter ice cream, or their CHOCOLATE MOCHA CAKE with Mocha Crémeux, and malted milk ice cream.

Google reviews were spectacular:

“This is one of the gems of the city. Very nice posh restaurant with a beautiful view over the lake, the skyline and the famous bean. The food is quite well prepared and all dishes are very tasty and well presented. Raw materials are also of quality. Good selection of spirits, wines and beers. Definitively recommended for a nice evening in a lovely place. The building which hosts the restaurant is also remarkable with beautiful marbles and mosaics. I think it was an old athletic club for the city of Chicago.”

“Went to Cindy’s for supper this Thursday evening! A special thank you to our server Anthony, who was attentive, thorough and personal! A special credit to the entire staff for taking care of celiac needs. From the front desk to the chef, I had confidence that the food was going to be safe for me. This communication and attention to details is unique and made for a spectacular night out. And… the view did not disappoint!”

There are lots more selections on their lunch, brunch and Thanksgiving Day menus. Cindy’s is located at 12 S. Michigan Ave. They are open Monday-Thursday 11am – 11pm, Friday 11am-12am, Saturday 10am – 12am, and Sunday 10am-11pm. 

Walk-ins are welcome. Reservations can be made through RESY. (NOTE: they are unable to take reservations by phone or via email as a credit card is required to book due to our cancellation policy.) For reservations, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago