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One person died and a child was among three others injured in a fire Monday on the Southwest Side. | Chicago Fire Media

Chicago Fire officials responded to a basement fire about Monday morning in the 5700 block of West 64th Street.

A woman died and three people were injured, including a 7-year-old boy, after a fire broke out in the basement of a home Monday morning in Clearing on the Southwest Side.

The injured people evacuated from the home around 6 a.m. in the 5700 block of West 64th Street, according to the Chicago Fire Department.

Firefighters entered and found a 60-year-old woman in a bedroom in the rear of the home, fire officials said. Paramedics took her to Holy Cross Hospital, where she was pronounced dead, Chicago police said.

A 7-year-old boy was transported in serious condition to Loyola University Medical Center, police said. A 34-year-old woman was in fair condition at Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, police said. A 60-year-old man was in good condition at Loyola.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.

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Nowadays, CBD is topping the charts for best health support. And that’s not just for humans. You can bring your dog in on this health regimen that affects everything from anxiety to appetite and even pain. As pet owners ourselves, we desire to provide only the best CBD oil to our pets and are always … Read moreRead More

Wishing for a beach vacation without a care in the world? Check out these two awesome properties along the shores of Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta. Discover absolutely glorious 85-degree weather, a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and an authentic Mexican experience, all wrapped up in a total package of sublime relaxation.

It all began at the airport, where everyone greeted me with, “Welcome Home” and I felt the stress just melting away.

Chill Out in Style at Marriott Puerto Vallarta

The pool and the beach beckon at the Marriott Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta. Photo by Mira Temkin.

Ideally located between the Sierra Mountains and Banderas Bay, the fabulous Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa has undergone recent renovations, making this like-new property a true jewel.

When you enter your luxurious accommodations, you’ll be blown away by the glorious poolside views and ocean vistas from your private balcony.  Add in the cozy pillowtop mattress and plush robes and you’re in for a comfy stay.

You’ll love dining in one of their six tempting restaurants serving Mexican, Japanese, fresh seafood, deli, plus a Championship Sports Bar. Chill out at their new swim up beachside bar, Nosh for tasty nachos, fresh salads and ceviche’s while enjoying expansive views of the water.

Chef prepares a tasty ceviche at Marriott Puerto Vallarta. Photo by Mira Temkin.

Key to what makes this resort so special is Marriott’s commitment to  “experiential” programs like tequila tastings, learning to make ceviche and other “how to” classes.

Marriott makes their own brand of tequila and you’ll appreciate learning about and tasting their distinctive brands. “Tequila has to be made in Mexico for it to be authentic,” said Tequila Sommelier Audrey Formisano. “Our special Casamagna brands are harvested from blue agave plants grown at the hotel,” she continued, “and come in blanco, reposado and añejo.” Let Formisano guide you through the creation of their tequila and get a new appreciation for this local spirit.

Marriott is Committed to Preserving Sea Turtles

Sea turtles heading out to the water. Photo courtesy of Marriott Puerto Vallarta.

In 2004, Marriott pioneered an ecological conservation guidance program for Sea Turtles. Since that time, thousands of Sea Turtles have been safely  released into the waters. About 45 days after the mother turtles lay their eggs on the beach, the baby turtles are born and come to the surface. Guided by marine biologists, the newborn turtles make it safely to the sea. Join them when hatching season runs from June to December.

Check out their Ohtli Spa, which means journey. Let them pamper you from head to toe with an aromatherapy or couple’s massage.

Day of the Dead Honors Loved Ones

Every November 1 and 2, this colorful Mexican tradition celebrates the lives of departed loved ones with colorful displays, altars and meaningful mementos of their lives.

We had a chance to check out the Malecon (Puerto Vallarta’s Boardwwalk)  and saw all of the colorfully decorated ofrendas featuring traditional skulls, skeletons and La Catrinas.

Skulls decorate the Malecon on Day of the Dead. Photo by Mira Temkin.

The Marriott Puerto Vallarta takes Day of the Dead to a whole new level. All of the various hotel departments spent the day constructing their own colorful ofrendas to honor their loved ones and compete for prizes.

I had a chance to have my face painted with bright hues of pink and orange, wearing a colorful headband and posing with the Catrina.

Getting your face painted is part of the tradition for Day of the Dead. Photo by Mira Temkin.

An exquisite dinner under the stars offered a number of stations serving Mexican specialties like Tostados, Tamales, Sarandeado Fish Station and a  heavenly dessert table. With live music, folkloric entertainment and voting for our favorite displays, what an awesome celebration it was.

The Westin Resort & Spa – Dedicated to Your Well- Being  

Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta glows in the night. Photo courtesy of Westin Resort & Spa.

With a perfect location near the Marina, this former palm tree farm turned luxury wellness resort features gorgeous landscapes, colorful tropical decor, culinary delights, and tons of recreational activities. You’ll enjoy retreat-like accommodations with all ocean-facing balconies, plush Heavenly® Bed and rejuvenating Heavenly® Bath to help you unwind.

The Westin Resort & Spa is dedicated to nurturing the mind, body and spirit, offering a  multi-faceted program for optimum wellness. Everything from food to beverages adheres to a heathy living lifestyle. At El Palmar, you can enjoy matcha pancakes, fruit smoothies and egg-white omelets.

Be sure to book an appointment in their Heavenly Spa. I opted for the Sleep Well massage and the therapist’s sure but steady strokes released the tension I had been carrying around for weeks.

Start your morning with yoga on the beach where you can bend, stretch and feel at one with the water. Or have a special seaside picnic catered on the beach as the sun goes down with a perfect sunset.

Picnic on the beach at Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta. Photo by Mira Temkin.

Dining while overlooking the bay at Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse was exquisite. I enjoyed the world’s best Caesar Salad and juicy steak served on an open grill.

Perfectly grilled steak at Arrecifes  restaurant, Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta. Photo by Mira Temkin.

Shoppers Paradise

Strolling along the colorful Malecon, you’ll discover beautiful jewelry, excellent crafts, fine clothing in exclusive boutiques, and of course, bargaining with local beach vendors for bracelets, earrings and pottery. Just reopened is the new Thursday night market at the Marina, which features a host of Mexican foods as well as artisan goods like the latest in straw bags, colorful purses, T-shirts and jewelry.

Both deluxe properties offer a choice of all-inclusive or special dining packages. Make your plans to discover these beautiful properties any time of year!

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Speaking of the holiday season, don’t forget about Hanukkah, honored by both the large Jewish population in Chicago and those who simply appreciate the different cultures in our amazing city. Celebrate Hanukkah in Chicago this year with everything from a holiday pop-up bar to delicious dinner specials for dine-in and carryout.

Image Credit: Papergirl PR

3441 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Celebrate Hanukkah in Chicago with The Greystone Tavern at the iconic 8 Crazy Nights pop-up, featuring a special food menu ranging in price from $5 to $16 and themed cocktails.

Come enjoy traditional Jewish favorites with a modern spin, such as Matzo Ball Soup and three flavors of Latkes, including classic with sour cream and applesauce, cilantro jalapeno with chipotle sour cream and herb cheddar with chive sour cream. And don’t forget to add to your meal the mouth-watering appetizers and finish with some creative desserts.

For drinks, guests this year can sip $12 hot cocktails like a Hanukkah Harry’s Hot Chocolate served in a gold mug and a Blue Toddy besides the rest of Greystone’s traditional Hanukkah drinks.

Image Credit: The Goddess and Grocer

All locations

Your favorite neighborhood grocery/bakery is ready to help you celebrate Hanukkah in Chicago with goodies! Enjoy iconic items such as latkes, matzo ball soup, kugel, grilled asparagus and desserts like Hanukkah cookies and cupcakes, and discover new items as they update their menu!

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607

This Hanukkah, add an order of Parmesan, Potato & Brussels Sprout Latkes and Shawarma Spiced Brisket Confit with sesame pumpkin puree and currant gremolata to your mezze spread.

The special menu is for dine-in only from Sunday, November 28 – Monday, December 6 beginning at 4:00 PM Monday – Friday, and at 3:00 PM Saturday and Sunday. Meanwhile, the regular dinner menu will also be available.

Hanukkah Cookie Kit (at all locations)

Kick-off your eight nights of celebrating with Beatrix’s Hanukkah Cookie Decorating Kits for $17.95 plus tax! The kit includes six Hanukkah-themed sugar cookies, four piping bags with icing (dark blue, light blue, white, yellow) and sprinkles.

Hanukkah Dinner (at Fulton Market and Streeterville locations)

For $42.95 plus tax, you can feast on Beatrix’s special Hanukkah menu at home. The dinner includes Challah Bread, Matzoh Ball Soup, Potato Pancakes with Sour Cream & Apple Sauce, Roasted Green Beans with Lemon Vinaigrette, Short Rib with Ginger Beets, Raspberry Macaroons and Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake.

The dinner is available from November 29 to December 6 for dine-in, carryout, and delivery between 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. And be sure to order one day prior by 12:00 PM. All carryout and delivery is served cold with reheat instructions.

74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

Celebrate Hanukkah with specials from Ema including Parmesan, Potato & Brussels Sprout Latkes for $12.95, plus tax (gratuity not included), and Grilled Harissa Spiced Sea Bass with roasted garlic yogurt sauce, pine nuts, herb salad and grilled lemon for $28.95, plus tax (gratuity not included).

These specials are available for dine-in only from Sunday, November 28 – Monday, December 6 beginning at 3:00 PM. The regular menu will also be available.

7110 Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712

Woods is offering a Hanukkah meal for two for carry-out and delivery. Your dinner will include Matzo Ball Soup, Braised Brisket with Sweet & Sour Gravy, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Potato Pancakes, Noodle Kugel, and Chocolate Babka.

Each Hanukkah Meal To-Go is $79.95, plus tax (gratuity not included) serves two guests. Available for carryout and delivery Sunday, November 28 – Monday, December 6 between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. In addition, orders need to be in by 10:00 PM the day prior to your desired carryout or delivery date.

1954 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614

Summer House is offering Hanukkah specials including Matzo Ball Soup, Latkes, and more. These holiday specials will be available for dine-in and carryout only from Sunday, November 28 – Monday, December 6.

Featured Image Credit: The Greystone Tavern

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The Chicago Cubs are retooling. A lot of people think otherwise but they just traded away three players who were cornerstones of their franchise. If they try to win after choosing not to extend those guys, they will appear to have made a mistake. One of those guys traded away was Kris Bryant. The Cubs […] Chicago Cubs: The Seattle Mariners are in on Kris Bryant – Da Windy City – Da Windy City – A Chicago Sports Site – Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Fighting Illini & MoreRead More

Caroline Bowman stars as Elsa in the stage musical adaptation of “Frozen,” now playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. | Deenvan Meer

Offerings include annual favorites and world premieres, comedy and opera and everything in between.

Holiday cheer has returned in full force on Chicago’s stages. Offerings include annual favorites (from Charles Dickens, Irving Berlin and Frank Capra), a new spoof of a romantic holiday film and a visit with a grown-up friend of the Grinch, an operatic Santa, an immersive family-friendly experience and a “Frozen” treat from Broadway.

In short, there’s something for theater fans of all ages to enjoy in the weeks ahead.

Here are some highlights of productions playing throughout Chicago’s holiday season.

Enjoy!

“Becoming Santa Claus”: Chicago Opera Theater presents Mark Adamo’s family-friendly holiday opera in which a naughty elf learns the meaning of family, love and the true spirit of gift giving. Dec. 11, 17, 19. Studebaker Theater. 410 S. Michigan, $45+; chicagooperatheater.org

“Best of the Holidays”: The Second City celebrates over 60 years of sketches and songs as the next generation of comedy superstars performs the company’s greatest holiday hits. To Jan. 1 at Up Comedy Club, 230 W. North, $39-$70; secondcity.com

“A Christmas Carol”: Krista Scott’s adaptation of Charles Dickens holiday classic. Dec. 2-24. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell, Arlington Heights, $30; metropolisarts.com

“A Christmas Carol”: Larry Yando returns as Ebenezer Scrooge in the annual staging of Charles Dickens classic holiday story; directed by Jessica Thebus. To Dec. 31. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, $25+; goodmantheatre.org

“Christmas Dearest”: Hell in a Handbag Productions presents David Cerda’s return as actress Joan Crawford, who has lost sight of what the holidays really mean until she’s visited by three ghosts who set her straight. To Dec. 31. Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster, $32; handbagproductions.org

“Christmas Karol: A Holiday Intervention Cabaret”: Jay Espano and Christa Retka’s ‘s devised play about a jaded cafe owner who decides to cancel her famous holiday party, but friends and family help save the tradition. Dec. 9-19. The Broadway, Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, $30; pridearts.org

“The Christmas Schooner”: The heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with Christmas spirit. To Dec. 18. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, 900 Foster, Medinah, $16-$22; overshadowed.org

“Deck the Hallmark: A Greeting Card Channel Original”: The Second City sendup of the Hallmark Channel’s saccharine holiday films that “wear out cliches and keep former child actors employed.” To Jan. 2. The Up Comedy Club, 230 W. North, $49+; secondcity.com

“Eb & Belle”: Theatre Above the Law presents the world premiere of Ryan Stevens’ unique spin on “A Christmas Carol,” telling the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his first love, Belle, before he became the curmudgeon we know today. Directed by Tony Lawry. To Dec. 19. Jarvis Square Theater, 1439 W. Jarvis, $23; theatreatl.com

“Frozen”: The musical adaptation of the Disney film about two sisters, one who has magical powers to freeze objects and people, a skill she doesn’t know how to control. To Jan. 22. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph, $33; broadwayinchicago.com

Jenn Udoni -Franco
Charlie Baker (from left), Andrew Clancey, Morgan Lavenstein, LaKecia Harris, Rebecca Marowitz and Christopher Thomas Pow in Strawdog Theatre Company’s production of “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins.”

“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins”: A stage adaptation of Eric Kimmel’s classic children’s book about a traveling troupe of actors who put on a show to save the holiday. To Dec. 12. Strawdog Theatre at Rivendell Theatre, 5779 N. Ridge, free; strawdog.com

“Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn”: The musical based on the classic film features a hit parade of Berlin’s songs including “White Christmas.” To Jan. 9. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, $54-$74; drurylanetheatre.com

“The Nutcracker”: The Joffrey Ballet presents Christopher Wheeldon’s reimagining of the classic now set on Christmas Eve, 1892, months before the opening of the 1893 World’s Fair. Dec. 4-26. Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker, $35+; joffrey.org

“Love Actually? The Unauthorized Musical Parody”: Bob and Tobly McSmith’s parody of the iconic romantic comedy follows nine quirky couples looking for love; directed by Tim Drucker. To Jan. 2. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln, $29-$69; ticketmaster.com

Manual Cinema’s Christmas Carol: The performance collective’s imaginative adaptation updates the holiday tale as Aunt Trudy, an avowed holiday skeptic, is recruited to channel her late husband’s famous Christmas cheer. Streaming to Jan. 3, the filmed performance can be purchased at any time and watched within 48 hours, $15; manualcinema.com

“Mr. Dickens’ Hat”: The world premiere of Michael Hollinger’s play with music about a pair of bumbling thieves who attempt to steal a hat said to have been worn by the famous author and the young girl out to foil their plan and free her father from debtor’s prison; directed by David Catlin. To Jan. 2. Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, $30-$89; northlight.org

Kyle Flubacker
Acrobats perform in Cirque du Soleil’s ” ‘Twas the Night Before …”

” ‘Twas the Night Before …”: Cirque du Soleil’s spin on the classic Christmas tale is filled with acrobats and spectacle. To Dec. 5. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State, $30+; chicagotheatre.com/cirque

“Who’s Holiday!”: An adults-only comedy stars a booze-guzzling, cigarette-smoking, grown-up Cindy Lou Who as she remembers the fateful night she met The Grinch and the turn her life took after that meeting. To Dec. 26. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont, $20-$35; theaterwit.org

“It’s a Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Life”: The Second City roasts the season with a mix of sketch comedy and improv. Dec. 18-30. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell, Arlington Heights, $30-$60; metropolisarts.com

“It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!”: American Blues Theater presents its 20th annual radio-play adaptation of Frank Capra’s classic film. Directed by Gwendolyn Whiteside. To Dec. 31. Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln, $25-$65; americanbluestheater.com

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”: Joe Landry’s adaptation of Frank Capra’s classic film. To Dec. 30. Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Rd, Glenview, $45; oillamptheater.org

“The Second City Holiday Revue”: Seasonal holiday fun with the comedy troupe. To Dec. 23. Copley Theatre, North Island Center, 8 E. Galena, $37; paramountaurora.com

“Christmas Bingo — It’s a Ho-Ho-Holy Night”: Vicki Quade’s holiday show brings together two of the best things about being Catholic — Christmas and bingo. To Jan. 2. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln, $35; greenhousetheater.org

“Paradise Square”: The pre-Broadway run of a new musical set in 1863 in the Five Points area of Lower Manhattan, where Irish immigrants settle alongside free-born Black Americans; directed by Moises Kaufman with choreography by Bill T. Jones. To Dec. 5. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph; $39+; broadwayinchicago.com

Liz Lauren
The Ghost of Christmas Present (JQ, front) is surrounded by his crew (Pos and Jax) in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s production of “Q Brothers Christmas Carol,” presented in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

“Q Brothers Christmas Carol”: A hip-hop reinterpretation of the holiday classic; directed by GQ and JQ and developed with Rick Boynton. Dec. 8-23. The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare at Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand, $38-$56; chicagoshakes.com

“Winter in the Wildwood”: Otherworld Theatre presents an immersive family-friendly holiday experience where a magical Faun goes on a quest to uncover the truth behind the fading Wildwood lights. Dec. 9-Jan. 9. Otherworld Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, $20, $40; otherworldtheatre.org

“Miracle on 34th Street”: BrightSide Theater presents Lance Arthur Smith’s musical adaptation of the classic holiday film. Dec. 10-19. Meiley-Swallow Hall, North Central College, 31 S. Ellsworth, Naperville, $33; brightsidetheater.com

“The Play That Goes Wrong”: A classic murder mystery set during the opening night of a play where everything that can go wrong does. Dec. 14-Jan. 30. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower, 175 E. Chestnut, $30+; broadwayinchicago.com

“Pretty Woman — The Musical”: The musical based on the popular movie features a score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and a book by the movie’s director, Garry Marshall, and screenwriter J.F. Lawton. Dec. 14-19. CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe, $33+; broadwayinchicago.com

Michael Brosilow
Vero Maynez (left) plays Chione and Jackie Seijo plays Quin in The House Theatre of Chicago’s world premiere production of “The Snow Queen.”

“The Snow Queen”: A new holiday tradition begins with the world premiere of Lanise Antoine Shelley’s adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s beloved fable; directed by Amber D. Montgomery. To Jan. 2. House Theatre of Chicago at Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, $20-$50; thehousetheatre.com

“That’s Weird Grandma: Comes Home for the Holidays”: PlayMakers Laboratory presents a line-up of holiday-themed sketches and songs written by Chicago elementary school children. Dec. 10-19. Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland, $12.50-$25; playmakerslab.org

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