What are /r/ChicagoSuburbs' favorite Products & Services?

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Check Facebook or Nextdoor to see if your area has a "Neighbors and Newcomers" group which usually consists of young adults (at 30, you qualify) new-ish to the area looking to meet other people their age. They usually do regular events like bar/restaurant nights, bowling, etc.

If you're even remotely religious, check to see if any churches/temples have a young adults group that meets for volunteer events and fellowship events. At my previous church (Catholic) the YA group had a kickball team, a bi-annual bar crawl, etc. Church/temple groups will likely be the friendliest and most welcoming, even if you're shy.

Speaking of volunteering, find a non-profit organization that you like and get involved or join their junior board. They usually meet regularly and have fundraising events throughout the year. Usually friendly and you'll automatically have something in common.

Get involved in your alumni organization.

Go to meetup.com, pick out a few upcoming group meetings, and check them out to see if you click.

Take up board games or tabletop games and start playing at a local store.

You play music, start a band and start going to shows or open mic nights.

Finally, I know you said you don't really drink, but if there's no moral or health reason for not drinking (i.e., you don't have a history of substance abuse or on meds that are contraindicated with alcohol), consider having a max of two drinks when you're socializing. It really does work as a social lubricant when used in moderate, responsible amounts and will help facilitate conversation.

Good luck!

In case anyone is looking. I have had good luck with the Midland Weather Radios. They run around $30 before tax/shipping.

None of our phones went off for a while after the storms started. This weather radio woke us up halfway across the house with closed doors. We were already sheltered in the basement by the time the phones/weather apps alerted us of the severe weather.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_6J7T6MWTX5RNJKMPK0NN

These are the ones that I use. They woke me up easily halfway across the house through a closed door.

$30 before tax

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_6J7T6MWTX5RNJKMPK0NN

Indiana Dunes National Park is about an hour drive from downtown. I've only been in the summer, not the winter, but it looks like a bunch of the trails are still open! They also do free snowshoe rentals!

I really like flipping through AllTrails to get a sense of what's close and what kind of trails are around.

If your device battery can handle it, you could get an app like this and play yourself the white noise of your choice.

I normally use it when traveling, but it's also handy when we lose power.

I recommend this book to you. It's a book all about hiking trails in Chicago and Burbs that you can reasonably reach on foot from a metra or other transit.

have you looked into bumble BFF? or meetup.com? when i moved from philly home to bartlett i ended up in a naperville meet up group and have made many friends through the site.
my good friend who recently moved here from philly also swears by bumble bff

Have you heard of the NextDoor app and website? It's pretty cool, and helps connect neighborhoods (even the little "boroughs" or whatever you'd call them in AH). People post in there all the time about all kinds of things - I've seen posts about book clubs, contractors, people offering dog sitting, selling stuff, you name it. It's really cool and you can see who your neighbors are, plus crosspost to other "neighborhoods" in Arlington Heights. I really like it, you could post in there and I bet you'd get some replies :)

Here's the site but the app is pretty great too. Good luck!

I have Mint and received the alert. My wife is on Sprint (now TMo) and did not get anything.

All that being said, I highly recommend a weather radio. I know it’s 2021, but these things are rock solid on delivery of emergency weather alerts. ESPECIALLY since we live in Tornado Alley.

I have one of these in the center of my home and it’s fairly loud. In retrospect I would have unplugged it and brought it downstairs since it was pretty loud with everything else going on. This radio also runs on battery in case the power is cut.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_H8RP7BVQ1ZEY9E8BTEPH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I’m really not sure how many times in a year an alert is sent to my radio, but it’s usually important enough that we should be aware of it.

We need a guide to suburban food.

When I was living in the city, my mom got me this (a slight hint that I needed to bulk up at the time)

https://www.amazon.com/Streets-Mans-Guide-Chicago-Eats/dp/1893121275

The idea of the book is amazing, and of course the contents are out of date. We need something like this for the suburbs!

thank you for the welcome :)

I bought this stuff. The first time I used it, the windshield wipers smashed all the wet ice into slush, which refroze. The next time, I used more and it was awesome! I'll try the purple stuff, thanks!

I have this thing and it is awesome! The battery drains quicker than I'd like but it's great on walks.

Ok so I saw your other post for details. WTF!! Totally unacceptable. There are many deterrents for concern over a couch, which never took precedence for me over love, but ok. Honestly my cats have ruined some things but that inconvenience is worth the companionship they provide.

However, for couch protection, there are of course slipcovers, though not ideal. There are furniture protection strips which can probably be temporary once the cats learn they don't want to touch it. One of the best options I've found is a tall scratching post for the stretchhhyyyy ones that crave that stretch they get from the side of a couch. This one: https://www.chewy.com/smartcat-ultimate-32-in-sisal-cat/dp/49134?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12791446511&utm_content=SmartCat&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAjw8JKbBhBYEiwAs3sxNza0l5iKYq0bT0jtDCHUmG0L4aEyQAJTj7P... helped deter my boy from scratching the couches. They already had a cat tree, but this was what really helped.

You can try to argue those types of things to learn where they were taken so you can get them back, but if it's been a while already as it seems it has, it sounds your parents may not be very amenable.

Other options: if you can access your dad's phone you could see if location history is enabled which might give you adequate clues.

Another: there are tons of Chicago area cat rescues on Facebook, that network together. You might message CACC Cats, they seem to have lines of communications with lots of shelters and fosters and may be able to direct you in the right direction.

Good luck, I hope you get them back. This is absolutely unforgivable in my book.

I had a dead Windows laptop of that vintage, took out the drive and used something like this (similar but not this exact product): https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-YINNCEEN-Universal-5-25-Inch-DVD-ROM/dp/B09D7QK3YD/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2V5Q4DHEBHNRQ&keywords=ide+drive+to+usb+cable&qid=1665198597&sprefix=ide+drive+to+usb+cable%2Caps%2C78&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

to connect the drive as an external one to a new laptop.

Assuming Macbook Pro's used SATA drives, you could do the same and just access the data whenever you need it or transfer everything to a new computer.

Amazon? https://www.amazon.com/Arizona-Diet-Peach-Ounce-Pack/dp/B009A8F9Z4/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1T3ZKLGI2UWOY&keywords=Diet+Arizona+iced+tea+peach&qid=1662650708&sprefix=diet+arizona+iced+tea+peach%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-2

This is the only thing that works. Destroyed all of mine last year with back pack sprayer and now just use a spray bottle to kill any flareups.

https://www.amazon.com/T-Zone-Turf-Herbicide-1-Quart/dp/B00NWSIHCK

I've used this stuff Syngenta - TRTD11568 - Optigard Ant Bait Gel Box - 4 Tubes w/ Plunger - 30g each tube https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B003K8JDPM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_VQW8RT6XFNBPEKS6NKQQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Bought it 2 years ago to wipe out a couple carpenter ant infestations.

I drive and ride my bike through some of those neighborhoods. I rode my bike the day after this tornado and it was some scary and nasty shit. The thing that really struck with me is that you have one house that is more or less destroyed and then 2 houses down, you have like 3 branches that snapped off. It's like "nothing" happened.

Another suggestion (on top of the weather radio) is to pick up a small 60 minute UPS. I have this one (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FWAZEIU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) and have my modem/wifi and other key electronics hooked up to it so if the power does go down, you can still get internet and you can use it to charge your phone too.

Again, small price for some sort of a safety net in case shit hits the fan.

This is $30 right now and the exact one I have:

Midland - WR120B/WR120EZ - NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio - S.A.M.E. Localized Programming, Trilingual Display, 60+ Emergency Alerts, & Alarm Clock (WR120B - Box Packaging) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_AQNZGT68P7SMG7YNKCYQ

I love the mustard packets from restaurants. Then... I ordered this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050ILOZW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's so much stronger I can't handle it! I'd recommend it if you're looking for a strong one.

40 miles out and the antenna linked below gets everything except CBS. It is mounted in my garage attic, so it would perform better if it was outside, but that was too much of a pain in the ass.

I used to live 35 miles out, and the place we rented had one of those HUGE outdoor antennas mounted on the roof, and CBS was still hit or miss, so unless you are willing to go to extremes, I think you can forget about CBS.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DGYGGSF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought and installed this one in my attic in September. The flimsy digital one was fine for all the rest of the channels, but you need one with uhf specific receiver for CBS.

What's with all the made up nonsense in this thread defending the cop killing her passenger?

There was no ice. There wasn't any precipitation for over 24hrs before this happened., and it was only 0.01in of rain.

The first was also a DUI accident, not caused by ice.

I live right near this exit. I know exactly what the weather and road conditions in the area were at the time, and I've given you a historical link above to back it up.

What you said is not accurate at all.

I manage the attraction so obviously my opinion is biased, but I've got some reviews up on yelp and tripadvisor that might be helpful. Let me know if you have any questions!

Have you looked at meetup.com? You can probably find a group or some meetups that you'd be into. It might be a good way to do things you like while you get to know new people who share your interests.

This is a good lysine supplement that also works well as a cat treat. Lasts a good while too.

https://www.amazon.com/Vetoquinol-Enisyl-F-Oral-Paste-Supplement/dp/B003U2I87W/ref=sr\_1\_3\_sspa?crid=2FFKPJP17FKUG&keywords=lysine+viralys&qid=1643077846&sprefix=lysine+viralys%2Caps%2C72&sr=8-3-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwd...

You're not going to get much in the battery-powered department for $150 or $200.

Something like this: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Greenworks-2601402-GMAX-40V-Cordless-Lithium-Ion-12-in.-Snow-Shovel-Bare-Tool/48998007

There are a few sites that describe something similar to this.

Vinegar is a liquid substance consisting mainly of acetic acid and water, the acetic acid being produced through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. :)

White vinegar should be easy to find and pretty cheap. Jewel or Dominic's should have plenty to choose from, but you can get generic/store brand. If I remember correctly it is in the same aisle as salad dressing.

It works for Android, but needs an additional app. Google Pay doesn't know what to do with the IDPH QR code by default and there is no Google Pay "save to phone" option per Google's instructions.

I got it to work by installing the CommonHealth app on my phone and using a 2nd screen to log into the IDPH website and view the QR code. Scan the IDPH QR code with the CommonHealth app on your phone and then you can save it to Google Pay and add a shortcut to your home screen if you want.

Shout out to this model: https://www.amazon.com/Lasko-754200-Portable-Adjustable-Thermostat/dp/B000TKDQ5C/ref=sr_1_11?brr=1&qid=1636645121&rd=1&s=home-garden&sr=1-11

32,000 (yes 32k) 4~5 star reviews, because Amazon bestseller for at least 8 years. Got mine about 5 years ago, and use it every winter without issue. Perfect for small rooms.

I would recommend trying Indeed. You can set alerts for key words (such as payroll, accounting, engineering, etc.) and have it send you a daily email of newer postings.

I would also recommend looking on craigslist under the admin/office section. It sounds like her experience would be well suited for a lot of the positions listed on there.

to be fair a lot of Libertarians confuse it with Anarchy...

But good on you for getting out there and being the change you want to see!

Small suggestion, take that youtube video and run it through a video editor to cut the bottom off where your teleprompter is running.

Something like Lightworks is free and easy to use and you can also use the audio tools in it to bring your voice up (use the voice over preset) and make yourself more clear.

I know how hard running for a local office is with zero budget, and although I might not agree with all of your platform, I 100% think that more diversity of political opinions is more better!

With the smaller amount of cement you have, I recommend getting this shovel, too. They come in different widths. Great for quickly pushing a couple inches or less off your driveway without breaking out the blower. Not good if it's several inches or more of snow, though. If it's a small amount of snow or very light snow I feel this shovel is more efficient and quicker than using a snow blower.

The Snowplow "the Original Snow Pusher" 30" Wide Model 50530 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BVC8058/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_NV30TTFV0P53G0A6JMRA

Something like this could be helpful and you can carry it around with you in the gym.

Bottle Caddy Gym Water Bottle Pouch Sleeve with Zipper Side Storage Pockets for Cards, Keys, Phone, or Wallet for Reusable Water Bottles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096L7JHWV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_K50NH5Z9M17DG9FD8MQE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Any reason you can't print a 2 x 2 photo and then use a paper cutter to cut it down to preferred size:
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Paper-Trimmer-Blade-Capacity/dp/B07LFH2MGH

Almost every FedEx Office (formerly known as Kinkos) has one.

How strange to see your post when I just saw these... https://www.amazon.com/Chicago-Book-Postcards-Architecture-Foundation/dp/0764925865/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=chicago+postcards+architecture&qid=1626471905&sr=8-3

Buy a nice grinder and set it to medium: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N4KTW38

Buy a nice dark roast and grind beans every brew: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IS26U

If you're not happy, return them both. But given the preferences you listed, you'll be happy!

Edward Hospital made it for a fundraiser and was clever enough to avoid the opoly suffix to keep Milton Bradley's lawyers at bay:

https://www.amazon.com/Naperville-On-Board/dp/B0047R84B4

You can use a cheap infrared temp gun and scan everything or get a cheap IR adapter for your phone like this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0728C7KNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_xrBVFbEHZT6NY

It's $200 but will be much faster then an temp gun.

I have a similar driveway size up in AH, and I'm running one of these light duty electric snow throwers (for the last two winters):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YYPR9F6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_cu9y9aoKnIE8Q

We haven't had severe enough snow to over power it, but I would not expect great results in wet heavy slush.

I have sworn off similarly sized 2-stroke gas blowers that never start for me. I was always too cheap to get electric start, but I would recommend investing there.

You'll likely find that one of your neighbors has a hefty 2-stage, and they'll help you out when the big one hits.

Nice thank you!

While we're at it, check out my buddy's. He's from Chicagoland and he sets his distopian future/zombie novel in the area.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07KVQ33NK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IVYGFbB4QYTR8

Try "Lonely Olive Tree Organics". The family who owns the restaurants Captain Porky's and the Shanty (located in Wadsworth at rt41 & Wadsworth Rd) has an Olive grove in Greece where they make their own olive oil and sell it here. You can purchase it directly from them or order through Amazon. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Lonely-Olive-Tree-Organic-Virgin/dp/B00GTYXC9W&ved=2ahUKEwib0OST87_oAhWEZ80KHdczCtgQFjAAegQIAxAB&usg=AOvVaw3MLhA77DBf0VYED0kXxDs6

That's a huge coat and super bulky, I would bring another less bulky one as that is gonna be a pain everytime you go into a building you'll be so hot. Check the weather before coming, if its' gonna be super cold like in the teens that coat will be good, otherwise, a "packable" down jacket with sweater would work. Similar to this, it will be plenty warm and is the "uniform" for Chicago women, although most seem to be NorthFace, Michael Kors etc.https://www.amazon.com/Eddie-Bauer-Womens-CirrusLite-Regular/dp/B074WXJM4V/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-qyK_t3Y5gIVh4bACh2MCgD9EAAYAiAAEgLJUPD_BwE&hvadid=242050994812&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9022129&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t2&a... .

Looks for colorful scarves/hats and gloves.

You do not need to buy something as spendy as the Canada Goose parka, those are hella expensive and not necessary.

As for boots, Ugg's are pretty popular as are other boots that are "cute" but functional, if you are going to be going to restaurants and bars you probably won't want to wear those Columbia boots. The sidewalks are well cleared anywhere you will be going.

I've seen these kits in toy stores in Chicago proper. Doing a web search shows availability in Michaels and Walmart.

It looks as though you can buy actual plants online too. Or just try calling around to greenhouses near you if you want to go that route.

Michael Galinsky's Malls Across America? There are some really cool images in there. I think there were a few of Woodfield Mall as well.

we use a Mylec G-Force liquid filled ball which reduces bouncing