December 2009

We’re liking arches these days—McDonald’s golden arches, that is. Since 1977, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana have built four large-scale residences near hospitals for families whose children are receiving medical care far from home. It’s a wonderful non-profit that provides private rooms, hot meals, laundry machines, computer facilities, and emotional support for families with sick children. This month, RMHCC is starting work on the fifth Ronald McDonald House, scheduled to open in the spring of 2012 at 211 E. Grand Avenue in Streeterville. This “Skyline Oasis” will be 14 stories high, with 86 private rooms, a kitchen, and a rooftop deck, making it the largest Ronald McDonald House in the world.

But the RMHCC needs help, and who better than our readers to recognize the importance of a comfortable home close to the ones you love? Now through Dec. 25, Thos. Moser is accepting donations of new unused household items, from Clorox wipes and scotch tape to bath towels and queen sheet sets. Showroom manager Laura Murphy contacted RMHCC because Thos. Moser wanted to work with a local charity. You can also donate year-round at the four Chicagoland locations in Lincoln Park, Hyde Park, Oak Lawn, and Hines, or purchase a coconut fiber “Welcome” mat from the foundation for $50.

—LISA GARTNER

Love supporting independent design? Post 27 does. This hip antique shop is hosting a holiday shopping event tomorrow from 11AM to 6PM for Coterie, a local collective of artisans and designers. There is also a reception from 5 to 9PM tonight. Shown above, pillows by Coterie member Kiyomi Kimble.

—GINA BAZER