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Memorial Day didn't become an official holiday until 1971, but Americans started gathering annually in the spring to remember those who lost their lives in war during the 1860s, right after the Civil War. Celebrated on the last Monday in May, people still decorate the grave sites of war veterans and hold memorial services, but Memorial Day has also evolved into a day that signifies the beginning of summer.

During the summer months, many people take road trips to visit family members. Some head off to the airport to enjoy a long-awaited vacation far away, while others look forward to spending time with friends and family at home. However you spend Memorial Day and the subsequent summer months, there are a few things you can take care of to ensure your summertime is enjoyable.

Checklist for an Enjoyable Summer

• Have the AC Checked. During the hottest days of summer, many families find themselves sweating it out due to a broken air conditioning system. Be proactive so you can avoid waiting for hours or days because the HVAC repair person is booked solid. Have your air conditioning system checked before or around Memorial Day each year.
• Ensure Security While You're Away. When you leave for vacation, the last thing you should have to worry about is the security of your home. Install a home security system, if possible, and put a timer on your lights so they go on and off at normal hours. You can also alert your local police department that you'll be gone, and ask them to drive by your house once in a while to make sure everything is okay.
• Visit Dr. Karen Seder Before Vacation. Many people put off school-related or annual health exams until after summer vacation. Avoid the crowds and make sure your physical and oral health are in top shape prior to vacation time so there are no unpleasant surprises.
• Plan Your Memorial Day Traditions. Whether you host a barbecue in the Chicago, IL area or beyond, gather for the parade, or spend time at a loved one's grave site, plan your Memorial Day happenings in advance so those you wish to include can be there.

Our team at Seder Orthodontics wants you to look forward to Memorial Day and the days of summer by preparing to spend the time safely and comfortably. As you plan ahead, take care of your health and secure your home, you can place your focus on creating memories with family members and friends while enjoying your favorite Memorial Day traditions.

There's a new kick-off to Chicago's summer festival schedule, and it's right here in Lincoln Park! Lincoln Avenue Live is a local-first celebration of summer and local businesses along Lincoln between Webster and Belden slated for Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and 2. And what's a great Chicago festival without great food and music. Below is the line-up for entertainment and culinary delights:

Live Music:

Saturday

12:30pm - Juniper Mays
2:15pm - Mike Wheeler Band
4:15pm - Greg Trooper
6:00pm - SunFallen
8:00pm - Wedding Banned

Sunday

12:15pm - Toronzo Cannon and the Cannonball Express
2:15pm - Chicago Blues Allstars
4:15pm - Trippin Billies
6:50pm - Sixteen Candles

Menu Items:

• Burgers and 7 pepper fries courtesy of John Barleycorn
• Pizza courtesy of Bacino's Pizza
• Tacos and Elotes from Moe's Cantina
• Jumbo pretzels, veggie burgers and brats from O'Malley's West
• ...And free cookie samples from Insomnia Cookies and much, much more!

Most of our patients at Seder Orthodontics will need to wear rubber bands at some point during their orthodontic treatment. The main reason our patients are instructed to wear rubber bands is to correct their bite. If your teeth do not fit together properly, Dr. Karen Seder will recommend that rubber bands be used. Dr. Karen Seder may also recommend using rubber bands to close or open spaces.

Rubber bands are a critical part of your treatment, and wearing them as Dr. Karen Seder and our team recommend will help move your teeth into the desired position. Dr. Karen Seder may ask you to wear your rubber bands full time, meaning that they should only be taken out when you brush and floss your teeth three times a day. Other times, you may be asked to only wear them part-time, like only during the day or only during sleep.

If you still have any questions about orthodontic rubber bands, we invite you to give us a call or ask us during your next adjustment appointment. Remember, wearing rubber bands as prescribed by Dr. Karen Seder is an important step during your treatment, and can reduce the time you have your braces. If you lose your rubber bands or run out, stop by our Chicago, IL office and pick up more!