Downers Grove Magazine March 2022 by Downers Grove Magazine

CELEBRATING FOUR YEARS OF PUBLISHING $5 US VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 MARCH 2022

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

with Tony and Grammy Award Winner Lauren Patten

GUITARIST MURIEL ANDERSON

CURTAINS UP: LOCAL THEATRE

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LETTER from THE ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

YOU ASKED, WE LISTENED. Have you heard the news? Downers Grove Magazine will be published bimonthly in 2022. Our readers asked for more stories and unique content, and we are happy to oblige. The number of stories we receive from the community is impressive, from submissions on unique individuals to influential organizations and companies. We pride ourselves on creating a local magazine with style and substance. Thank you, readers, for your involvement, feedback, and support as we enter our fourth year of publishing.

Callahan caught up with members of the American Legion to share the history and relevance to our town. Thanks to Historian, Dave Wisbrock, for his time and effort on the piece. It’s time to start thinking about travel and summer plans. Every year my extended family hunts for a place that will accommodate all, provide fun for different life stages and create lasting memories.

CELEBRATING FOUR YEARS OF PUBLISHING

Although we have highlighted various stories on arts and theatre, this issue takes it to the next level. Thankfully, Downers Grove native Lauren Patten agreed to participate. The Tony and Grammy award winner shares her journey to the spotlight on Broadway, her performance in the hit television show Blue Bloods and beyond. Certainly, a story for aspiring entertainers to read.

$5 US VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 MARCH 2022

Thankfully, Valerie Hardy has cut out some of the significant legwork for the planning phase. Check out some places from the Midwest to destination beaches for some recommendations and insight.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

with Tony and Grammy Award Winner Lauren Patten

GUITARIST MURIEL ANDERSON

CURTAINS UP: LOCAL THEATRE

We would be remiss if we did not include how local theatre is performing (pun intended) as we find a new sense of normal. BrightSide Theatre and BAMtheatre have long been staples in their respective communities of Naperville and Hinsdale. We are also happy to highlight the recently launched Ghostlight Educational Theatre Collective as well. Be sure to mark your calendars for upcoming performances to support the arts in our community.

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Since we embarked on this journey, Muriel Anderson has been on our radar. A skilled guitarist, harp guitarist, and composer, she is the first woman to have won the National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship. This November, Muriel celebrated the 30th anniversary of her Saturday-afterThanksgiving Concert in Downers Grove. If you missed it, she heads back to the Chicagoland area to perform at the Old Town School of Folk Music on Saturday, April 16th. Back in the fall, we hoped to do a story on the American Legion. Still, after much editorial discussion, we determined that the story warranted more coverage within the magazine due to its storied history and place in the community. Maureen 8

Finally, as a parent of two middle school students in District 58, I was personally happy to showcase the etiquette and dance class in this issue. 8th-grade students at both Herrick Middle School and O’Neill Middle School had the opportunity to participate in this class for six weeks this winter on Friday nights. Although the tradition was on hiatus due to Covid19, the Friday night event was back thanks to the many volunteers at each school.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read. And thank you to our media partners. Downers Grove Magazine continues to grow solely due to their support. I encourage our readers to reach out or visit these local businesses within this issue that make this publication possible for our community. We will see you in just two months!

Sincerely,

Anne Healy Associate Publisher anne@hinsdalemag.com

To guarantee delivery of each issue of Downers Grove Magazine to your home, please subscribe to the print edition by visiting www.downersgrovemag.com.

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Live Life Artfully Live it here drurydesigns.com

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CONTENTS |

March 2022

17 TO DO LIST

Calendar of 2022 Spring Events

20 #WeAreDG District 58 Etiquette & Dance Program

22 HOME GROWN Artist Tracy Jones

26 SPOTLIGHT Musician Muriel Anderson

32 COVER STORY

Broadway and TV Actress Lauren Patten

DISTRICT 58 ETIQUETTE & DANCE PROGRAM

38 SPECIAL FEATURE Local Theatre Programs

42 GIVING BACK Ian’s Place for Bereaved Parents

46 HISTORY VAULT The American Legion

LOCAL THEATRE PROGRAMS

51 REALTOR PROFILES 56 TRAVEL Destinations for Extended Family Travel

60 FINE ART

26 MURIEL ANDERSON

Faust at the Lizzadro Museum

62 COMMUNITY SCENE 64 FASHION Spring Colors

ON THE COVER: Broadway and TV Star Lauren Patten Photo by Jenny Anderson

FOR THE LATEST NEWS, HAPPENINGS AND PHOTOS, VISIT @DOWNERSGROVEMAGAZINE 10

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FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Scott Jonlich sjonlich@hinsdalemag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

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Anne Healy anne@hinsdalemag.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Maureen Callahan Valerie Hardy Julie Jonlich

THANK YOU FOR THE SUPPORT AND TRUST, AS WE CONTINUE TO GROW AND SERVE DOWNERS GROVE!

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Larry Atseff Emma Wolf CREATIVE DEPARTMENT

Marco Nunez Julia Sinogeikina Dennis Stromberg FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS

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No person, organization or publication can copy or re-produce the content in this magazine or any part of this publication without a written consent from the publisher. The publisher, authors, contributors and designers reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. Downers Grove Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Downers Grove Magazine. Comments are welcome, but they should be on-topic and well-expressed. Copyright ©2021 Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2021 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR-0121-00262

WANNESTARTSPRINGEARLY? THE 28TH ANNUAL SPRING HOME & GARDEN SHOW SATURDAY & SUNDAY MARCH 12TH & 13TH, 9AM - 5PM

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Downers Grove Magazine | To • Dos

TO•DO•LIST

pring has sprung! Now that the winter blues will (hopefully) be coming to an end, there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy both indoors and outdoors.

St. Patrick’s Day Meal at Carnivore & The Queen

This St. Patty’s Day, get your green on at Carnivore & The Queen! Enjoy a traditional Irish meal along with signature Prime Rib while experiencing the beautiful ambiance of this sophisticated restaurant in Downers Grove.

Park Clean-Up Day

Come celebrate Earth Day on April 21st by participating in Hinsdale’s annual Park Clean-Up Day! Individuals and/or groups get to request a specific park throughout the town and they can then get started by planting trees and removing debris. Taking place from 4pm-dusk, this is a great opportunity for residents, scout groups, churches, businesses, and service organizations to give back to the community and celebrate the beauty of earth.

Oak Brook Pink 5K Run/Walk

Get your pink on and help fight breast cancer at Oak Brook’s annual Pink 5K run/walk! Enjoy this scenic, family-friendly timed race through Oak Brook’s Central Park on May 7th at 8am. 100% of registration fees will be

OAK BROOK PINK 5K RUN/WALK

Spring 2022

donated to the Hinsdale Hospital foundation, Open Arms Breast Cancer Outreach Fund. Register online today! Registration is $30 per participant on the Oak Brook Park District website.

Morton Arboretum Mother’s Day Brunch Enjoy the beauty of Spring blooms at the Morton Arboretum this Mother’s Day! Show Mom some love by treating her to a buffet-style brunch in the Ginkgo Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Meadow Lake. After brunch, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the Arboretum grounds during the most popular time of year to visit the Arboretum. Member ticket pricing is $58 for those ages 13 and older and $28 for children ages 4-12, and non-member ticket pricing is $64 for those ages 13 and older and $34 for children ages 4-12. Children ages 4 and younger will be admitted free of charge. This event takes place on May 8th and tickets go on sale in early March.

Hinsdale Humane Society Wine & Whiskers

A different take on Hinsdale Humane Society’s successful Cat Cafes, register for Wine & Whiskers, an evening of wine, cheese, raffle baskets, and, of course, the humane society’s fabulous felines! Enjoy playtime with our adorable cats while

HINSDALE HUMANE SOCIETY WINE & WHISKERS DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

BY EMMA WOLF

sipping on wine and cheese. Children are also welcome and can enjoy sparkling water or soda. A $20 registration fee helps with the care of resident felines. Raffle baskets add to the evening of fun! If you can’t attend, please consider donating to help the animals! This event takes place on March 21st at either 4:30pm5:30pm or 6pm-7pm.

“Ice Age Giants” Exhibit at Brookfield Zoo

Are you curious about the prehistoric animals that roamed the earth during the Ice Age period? Come explore the “Ice Age Giants” exhibit at Brookfield Zoo from April 1st-October 1st. The exhibit features 20 life-sized animatronic giants, including a Woolly Mammoth and Sabertooth cat. Kids can also pretend to be paleontologists and dig for fossils in a 64-square-foot dig pit. This exhibit is free with general admission.

The Play That Goes Wrong (Broadway in Chicago)

Get your laugh on with the Broadway award-winning comedy, The Play That Goes Wrong. Declared to be “a gut-busting hit” by The New York Times, this comical murder mystery play is now available for audience members to enjoy at The Cadillac Palace Theatre. The 2-hour play is shown now through April 3rd, so don’t hesitate to order your tickets online!

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG (BROADWAY IN CHICAGO) 17

PATTY MORAN-BAROCIO Chicago

Selling or buying a home isn’t an everyday thing, it’s a change your life thing. Choose your real estate agent accordingly.

Downers Grove Magazine | #WeAreDG

DANCE INSTRUCTORS ENLIST HERRICK STUDENTS TO DEMONSTRATE VARIOUS DANCES AT EACH FORTNIGHTLY SESSION.

Modern Manners & Timeless Moves Etiquette and dance classes are back for eighth graders in District 58

riday nights around town this winter may have seemed a bit quieter than usual, at least at some typical teen hangouts. That’s because many eighth graders headed back to campus for a series of five or six dance and etiquette classes at Herrick and O’Neill Middle

BY VALERIE HARDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

Schools respectively. Organized by the school PTAs, the programs are long-standing traditions within District 58. Having run annually for decades, these middle school rites of passage were paused last year due to COVID-19. However, the etiquette and 20

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

dance classes were back in the swing of things this winter – often quite literally. At the weekly classes, students learned various dances such as the Waltz, Tango, Charleston, Merengue and Salsa. Taught by professional instructors, eighth graders would watch the steps modeled,

then partner up to practice the dances themselves. Few participants had two left feet, and social media may be to thank. Jacynda Kruk, Committee Co-Chair for the Eighth Grade Etiquette Dance Class at O’Neill, advised students to “pretend you’re watching TikTok, and copy the instructor.” While TikTok may have primed this generation to pick up the dances fairly easily, if certain steps were challenging, instructors called upon student volunteers to help demonstrate. They also offered verbal tips. O’Neill’s dance instructor, Christine Keyes from Dancing with Class, helped the students finesse their form by telling them to show their “prettiest basketball shot ever” when describing correct hand placement for a choreography segment. Naturally, some students were more adept dancers than others. However, even if a student had a partner step on their toes every now and again, there was little reason to fret. Within a minute or so, they would be on to the next partner. Students formed concentric circles; one ring of students would rotate while the other stayed stationary, each student dancing with numerous partners throughout the evening. Today’s teens seem to have been spared the awkwardness of the stereotypical “junior high dance” of their parents’ adolescence. Boys on one side of the gym, girls on the other – a virtual standoff between the two sides, each waiting to see

who would muster up the courage to cross over and ask someone to dance. Rather, the rotation method employed allowed all students to dance without the risk of a prospective partner responding to an invitation to dance with, “Sorry, my dance card is full.” Dressed in their best (though not the sport coats and white gloves worn in earlier days of District 58’s etiquette and dance classes), eighth graders learned new moves along with manners. When shifting to a new dance partner, O’Neill students were to introduce themselves and offer their partner a genuine compliment – preferably not related to appearance. They also learned how to greet adults and offer them a firm handshake. Herrick used a new etiquette vendor this year: The Chameleon Academy of Communication and Civility. Instruction focused on “netiquette” (technology do’s and don’ts), manners within situations such as carpooling with other families, proper dining etiquette and appropriate cell phone use. Speaking of cell phones, they were off limits during the classes. “It’s the only time you’ll see 100 eighth graders in one room, no phones, and having good old-fashioned fun,” Kruk said. For some students, their phone has become a security blanket of sorts, and they may feel anxious when separated from it. New within Herrick’s programming was having the GRIT2 non-profit organization bring increased mental health awareness

and a specific focus on managing social anxiety, explained Marcia Radja, Herrick’s Fortnightly Co-Chair. Joy Myers, the Fortnightly’s Marketing Coordinator, explained another unique aspect of Herrick’s program: will feature a dinner dance. To be catered by Gatto’s Italian Restaurant, the dinner will afford students an opportunity to practice the dining etiquette they learned during earlier sessions. O’Neill’s program, which took place closer to the surge of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, did not include a meal, but that did not interfere with students’ enjoyment. O’Neill eighth grader Taylor Cicucci said, “It was so fun dressing up and dancing with my friends.” Her twin sister Mikayla agreed, noting that she liked the end of each session when everyone was just free dancing the best. Their classmate, Cooper Schoenike, added that both the dance and etiquette aspects were “very good ways to talk to new people.” Herrick participants, despite not knowing quite what to expect from the classes, were equally impressed. “It was actually good!” Herrick eighth grader Grace Olson said. “No one made it awkward.” In fact, for many students, the most stressful part was simply figuring out what to wear. Herrick participant Molly Brezina said, “It was hard to decide which dresses to buy, but once I got them, it was really exciting.” ■

AFTER LEARNING A SERIES OF PARTNER DANCES, STUDENTS IN O’NEILL MIDDLE SCHOOL’S ETIQUETTE DANCE CLASS TRY LINE DANCING ON FOR SIZE. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | Home Grown

A Work of Art Downers Grove resident and contemporary artist, Tracy Jones, reflects on his career of owning his own art business and making clients marvel over his masterpieces. BY EMMA WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINA MENAPACE 22

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

“D

on’t put all your eggs in one basket”. This is a common saying for parents to advise their kids while making decisions about the future. However, this expression (like many others) does not always hold true. Tracy Jones, founder and owner of T. Jones Creative, put all his eggs in one basket and struck gold. Originally from Indianapolis, Jones moved to Chicago at age 18 to attend the school of the Art Institute of Chicago. “I always knew that was the school I wanted to go to. I didn’t even apply anywhere else,” Jones said. “I put all my eggs in one basket.”

visual symbolism of parts of his early adulthood. “It’s cool that I can create a piece of artwork and it ends up in someone’s house,” Jones said. “That feeling is pretty amazing. The appreciation that my viewers have for my work is the best part of my job.” His creation process includes designing the original sketch of the client’s proposed idea, followed by multiple revisions and redesigns by Jones and the client until the sketch

that he, his wife, and their two children call home. He created a painting for a West Suburban Humane Society fundraiser, bringing together the beauty of animals and vivid color. He worked with the Downers Grove restaurant Carnivore & The Queen by designing their logo/branding and also helped develop their initial website design. He took pride in creating a hand-lettered mural at his kids’ school, Henry Puffer Elementary School, that shows positive messages for the students to read and find motivation from. Jones is currently working out the details that would hopefully allow for him to paint a mural between Pierce Tavern and Bar Chido, two restaurants next to each other in downtown Downers Grove.

“It’s cool that I can create a piece of artwork and it ends up in someone’s house, That feeling is pretty amazing. The appreciation that my viewers have for my work is the best part of my job.”

In the end, though, putting all his eggs in one basket was the right move; he was accepted into the School of the Art Institute, where he would go on to study various types of art and design, and eventually find his own unique groove. In school, Jones studied painting, printmaking, and graphic design. He now considers himself to be a contemporary artist. “I love watching my paintings progress from start to finish. It’s an amazing process,” Jones said. “I try to capture specific moments in time in my artwork.” The passionate artist started his freelance art design company, T. Jones Creative, in 2010, and his business now includes creating various commission paintings, which are personalized paintings that are specifically requested by clients and hold meaning to them. His paintings are most often used as birthday presents, anniversary presents, high school/college graduation presents, and even random interior design choices to spruce up the home. Jones most recently completed a painting for a University of Colorado graduate, highlighting the young man’s entire lifespan up until his graduation, including objects to represent his early childhood memories, and also featuring

— TRACY JONES, Contemporary Artist

matches the client’s vision, and next comes painting time. Jones mainly uses spray paint and acrylic paint, with the occasional use of graphite. While he mostly advertises his work on the social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, he also has a website and an Etsy store (managed in part by his wife), where he showcases his collection of artwork. Most of his pieces feature vivid images all named with clever titles, fitting his contemporary theme. Always looking to stay busy, Jones tends to work on multiple projects at the same time to avoid boredom or lulls in his work. He looks forward to creating his paintings inside his 10ft X 10ft inhome art studio, especially during the past Covid years when he has been home more than ever before. “I work on several pieces at one time, so I’m never not doing anything,” Jones said. “I always have a sketch book next to me. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and jot down ideas I have.” After moving to Downers Grove in 2014, Jones has also done several projects for local businesses, enriching his community involvement in the town DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

As for his future hopes and goals, Jones keeps it simple. He plans on doing this for the long-term with no plans on quitting. His bucket list includes getting a piece of his work in the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago and selling a piece of art to someone outside of the U.S. If you would like to check out Jones’s most recent work, it can be accessed via the following links: www.tracygjones.com www.instagram.com/whycart www.etsy.com/shop/tjonescreative ■

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Dr. Christina Steil

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Downers Grove Magazine | Spotlight

The Sky’s the Limit- Or Is It? - for Harp Guitarist Muriel Anderson

Downers Grove musical legend Muriel Anderson entertains around the world; and above it, too. BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

f you happen to score a spot on a Space X flight anytime soon, be sure to download your Muriel Anderson playlist before blastoff. According to Astronaut Susan Helms, it’s good music to listen to while

you watch the earth. Harp guitarist Muriel Anderson got an unexpected phone call in her Downers Grove home one day. NASA was looking for her. “Someone from their PR department said he had seen 26

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me playing on TV and had called just about every other Muriel Anderson in the United States trying to find me,” Anderson chuckled. “Next thing I knew, I was entertaining in a giant hanger at their annual Fajita Fest in Houston.”

began her study with piano. At the age of nine, her mother’s friend randomly gave her a guitar that was going for donation. Anderson began picking out notes in the car on the way home. The rest, as they say, is proverbial history. Her first guitar teacher immediately moved her from a young children’s group to a teenage group who played closer to her ability. The day she bought her first Guild steel guitar, the staff in the music shop at Old Town School of Music in Chicago, was astounded by the pre-teen’s far-beyondher-years talent. For years, Anderson’s dedicated parents drove her weekly- rain or shine- the twenty odd miles to the school. It was about helping her develop her passion. As a student at DGN, Anderson played in the jazz band, and later formed a bluegrass group. The Wildwood Pickers performed locally and on the road at summer festivals in the 1970s. Gigs with this band paid for groceries while on scholarship at DePaul. During college, Anderson picked up the mandolin from Jethro Burns, of the Homer and Jethro duet. Shortly thereafter, she began her relationship with the harp guitar. The instrument’s prominent moment spanned from the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th. One night she attended a concert of Michael Hedges- one of the few musicians who had made a living of playing the harp guitar. Since then, the harp guitar has been her passion and paid her bills.

PHOTO BY BRYAN ALLEN

During intermission, Anderson collected astronauts’ autographs. That’s when Susan Helms purchased a cassette tape of Heartstrings- Anderson’s first album- for in-flight music on her upcoming space mission. The tape was

later returned to Anderson, along with a certificate stating it had traveled 2.5 million miles in space. Despite her out-of-this-world musical achievements, Anderson herself is very down to earth. Like many musicians, she DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

When asked to define her style of music, Anderson hemmed and hawed. After some deliberation, she said that while her style is that of international folk music, she’s all over the map. Anderson is a classically trained guitarist whose roots are in folk music. “Early in my career, I got calls from confused music store employees. They didn’t know which bins to put my CDs into,” she laughed. Her all-over-the map style is a quality that audiences have come to love. Fans can expect to hear anything from classical to country in her repertoire. She admitted that she would like to categorize herself, “because it would definitely help my career,” she said, smiling. in

These days, Anderson is based Nashville with fiancé (and Continued on next page

Downers Grove Magazine | Spotlight life very hard for bands,” she stated. His down luck helped Anderson learn firsthand that the music business can be fickle, and to always have a second plan.

MURIEL AND SISTER MARGUERITE IN THEIR DOWNERS GROVE HOME WITH THEIR GRANDFATHER’S VICTOR TALKING MACHINE. COURTESY OF MURIEL ANDERSON

Continued from the previous page photographer), Bryan Allen. Her tours, typically about three weeks at a time, span the U.S., Europe and Asia. When asked her favorite destination, she paused. “It’s a tough question. I’ve been some great places. I really enjoy Japan,” she stated, pensively, “as they have great respect for musicians, and understand music very well.” Anderson and Allen take advantage of downtime in between shows to get out into nature, visit friends and family, and immerse themselves in local culture. A day off might find the two of them visiting an art museum in Paris or hiking a desert in Arizona. This past summer, the duo sailed from Long Island up the New England coastline on a sailboat concert tour. The trip resulted

in Anderson’s upcoming acoustic album to inspire sailing dreams. Anderson has come a long way from her first paid gig, ($20 for three performers), at The Two Way Street Coffee House in the basement of the First Congregational Church on Curtiss. She has written hundreds of songs and produced a dozen albums. More than talent, she credits her success to hard work and dedication to a chosen path. She understands the importance of perseverance, as well as backup plans. “My grandfather, Andy Jacobson, played saxophone in John Philip Sousa’s band,” Anderson proudly relayed. “While he was personally very successful, the musician’s union went on strike just about the same time DJs realized they could spin records. It made 28

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Having several instructional music books to her name, Acoustic Chef, is a more artistic recent endeavor. It’s an international account of Anderson’s travels in the form of a cookbook. “I’ll sometimes stay with local people during tours. Often, we’ll end up in the kitchen cooking something together,” she said. A CD of music to accompany each recipe as you cook, is also included. “I had an amazing English teacher at DGN, Margaret Cantrell. I thought of her as I wrote it,” Anderson stated. Pick up a copy at Anderson’s Bookstore, on Amazon, or on the musician’s website, murielanderson.com. Email her at muriel@murielanderson.com, to learn about upcoming tour dates. (Be sure to put your state in the subject line). You can also catch her yearly local show, always the Saturday after Thanksgiving, at a rotating Chicagoland venue. ■

Check out Muriel Anderson’s 501 (c)(3) charity, Music for Life Alliance. A rash of burglaries in her Nashville neighborhood committed by young people with substance abuse issues inspired Anderson to brainstorm with community leaders for a solution. The organization is a result of the combined efforts of the Musicians Union, the head of the local juvenile court, and Chicago-based Washburn Guitars.

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Downers Grove Magazine | Cover Story

OFF BROADWAY

Once a rising star, Lauren Patten has arrived. BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

he year 2021 was a slow year for most of us. Downers Grove native, Lauren Patten, wasted no time. If you’re a fan of NBC’s Blue Bloods, you’ve seen her alongside Tom Selleck patrolling the streets of the Big Apple as NYPD’s Officer Rachel Witten. These days, Patten pursues her ambitions under the bright lights of Broadway. There are few artists who have both a Tony and Grammy Award to their name. Patten closed the deal in the same calendar year. Last September, she graciously accepted the Tony for Best Actress in a Featured Roll, for her portrayal of Jo Taylor in Broadway’s Jagged Little Pill. It was one of 15 nominations in the most-ever nominated Broadway production. Her vocals in the jukebox musical based on Alanis Morrisette’s 1995 album also led to a Grammy for Vocalist, Best Musical Theater Album. Those weren’t her first awards, but they’re the highest honors to date. For one who has achieved so much, Patten herself is very matter of fact. When asked what led her from DG to Times Square, with a few detours in between, Patten thought for a moment before she replied, “I learned early in life that I love the storytelling aspect of theater and music. I have the chance to grow perspective and empathy, through a bond built with the audience,” she said pensively. Now, dozens of memorable theatrical roles later- and a few television as well- Patten largely credits her family for her success. Patten’s parents, DG residents Jim and Joanne, were acknowledged by their daughter as she accepted her Tony Award. “I thank my parents. They always believed in me from the very beginning,” Patten said. Downers Grove Magazine Contributing Editor, Maureen Callahan, recently chatted with the actress via Skype from the sofa of her New York apartment.

How did you get started in acting?

PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY

In the very beginning, I started acting with community theater groups around Downers Grove. I performed with Grove Players, Children’s Theater of Western Springs and Wheaton Drama. I made my

Continued on next page

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | Cover Story

Do you emulate any particular singers?

LAUREN PATTEN AND COMPANY IN JAGGED LITTLE PILL Photo by Matthew Murphy

Continued from the previous page professional debut at 12 years old in A Christmas Carol at The Goodman.

When did you realize you wanted to do this for a living?

I played Anne Frank with The Rubicon Theater Company in LA early in my career. I was 14 years old. I would say that was when I realized that I wanted to make this my profession. I learned that I really cared about what I was doing and wanted to be good at it.

What is your favorite theater role you have played?

That’s always a hard question, because every time you’re doing something new, you kind of fall in love with the character you’re playing. I’ve really loved the roles I’ve had the opportunity to play on BroadwayLAUREN PATTEN AND REBECCA LUKER IN FUNHOUSE Photo by Joan Marcus

Medium Joan in Funhouse and Jo in Jagged Little Pill. Jo is probably the one closest to my heart and spirit, because I put so much of myself into it. I also helped to create that character from the start, as opposed to just stepping into something someone else had written. It was an honor. Actors aren’t usually a part of the creative process of character development.

Jagged Little Pill opened with a local cast in Australia late last year. Is it difficult to see someone else play a role you created?

I accept that it’s kind of part of the process of what happens in theater. The creator- partially me, in the case of Johas in mind what they expect from the character, but it’s a conscientious choice not to hold on to what you have created so tightly that there’s no room to ‘hand the character off’ to another actor. Another actor is a completely different person than me, so it’s a shared experience. It’s part of the magic of theater.

How does it feel to have won both a Tony and Grammy for that show?

That was not something I saw coming! (Lauren laughed). I never expected it. Growing up in theater, I definitely never saw that Grammy coming. I grew up watching the Tony Awards thinking ‘wow. What if that ever happened to me?’ But a Grammy? Even though I’m a singer, I never even saw that as accessible. For a long time, vocalists weren’t even considered for that award, but that criterion changed a few years ago. So, it was this lovely, wonderful surprise! 34

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Alanis, of course. But not just because of the show. Outside of that as well. I listened to a lot, and I mean A LOT of singers growing up that I think helped shape what is vocally possible for me. I really looked up to Judy Garland, Randy Carlisle, Regina Spektor and Bob Seger, among others. Both of my parents are big music lovers. I got a varied musical education just riding in the car with them when I was young. They listened to all sorts of music. I always sang along.

Tell us about your band.

We really don’t have a name (Lauren laughed). It’s kind of a joke among us, that we need a name. It’s myself and three guys who play in pits on Broadway: Mark Shmead, Damian Bassman and Eric Davis. I’m the singer. We perform all sorts of different kinds of music together. I play guitar, too, but I’m kind of shy about it.

What made you decide to try television?

Theater is a deep love, but I always wanted to try television and film as well. There are things you just can’t do on stage that you are able to do on film, and vice-versa.

You had a great run with Blue Bloods. How did you come by the role of Officer Rachel Witten?

I went on an audition for what was supposed to be a one-episode part. I filmed the episode, thanked them and left. Then I got a call back the following season. Apparently, it had bothered Tom Selleck that his character (Commissioner Frank Reagan), fired Officer Witten, (my character). He didn’t like the direction the storyline had taken. He felt Reagan would not have fired Witten, but rather would have given her another chance. So, because of Tom’s generosity, what was supposed to be a single episode turned into five seasons.

Your schedule must have been crazy- filming the show while also starring on Broadway?

Luckily, Blue Bloods didn’t often film the same days I was performing live, but a few times it did. The days I was needed

at both set and stage were a little tough. I would be up at five to be on set early, then hopefully finish rehearsing or filming by mid-afternoon. I’d quickly get something to eat before running to the theater for an evening performance. Thankfully, that wasn’t very often!

How was it working with Tom Selleck?

Tom was so kind to me. I was in my twenties and had never had a part on a big show. Next thing I knew, I was doing scenes with a legend. You’re not always sure how big stars will be, and you’re worried you’ll mess things up. He really took care of me. So, like most people, I have nothing but great reviews for him.

Is Tom the boss on the set?

LAUREN PATTEN AND TOM SELLECK ON THE SET OF BLUE BLOODS Tom had a lot of influence over the script, plot lines and story endings. So, Blanchette, also. Audra McDonald was Even though you start out doing it for yes. Definitely. He’s such a TV legend. someone with whom I really identified. yourself, it’s a service to others, too. We weren’t on set together that often, It was amazing working with her on the You need a community you can learn unfortunately. It’s kind of a segmented set. set of The Good Fight. She’s the only actor from and depend on. I never felt I was All the main characters have storylines, who has won Tony awards for all possible going it alone. I’ve always had a very which are filmed on different days. I categories in musicals and plays. supportive community around me, both was part of Vanessa Ray’s (Eddie professionally and personally. But Reagan) storyline, so we were always it was a two-way street. It was about “Blue Bloods is my favorite set I have on set the same days. I would very me supporting others as well. You rarely see Donny Wahlberg, and worked on thus far. The people are also need drive. My parents have most of the others, for example, their own business and work really great. Vanessa Ray and I are good but I did cross paths with Will hard. It was a great example to me. Estes (Jamie Reagan) several times. friends now. It was great working My character worked in the same with her. There were more than a few Anyone you would want ‘house’ (police station) as his.

I guess I don’t need to ask if you miss it?

tears my last day on the set. The writers kind of left the door open, when my character left the NYPD, though, so we’ll see what happens.”

Blue Bloods is my favorite set I have worked on thus far. The people are great. Vanessa Ray and I are good friends now. It was great working with her. There were more than a few tears my last day on the set. The writers kind of left the door open, when my character left the NYPD, though, so we’ll see what happens. Most of the cast and crew have been with the show since season one. It’s now in its twelfth season if that tells you anything about the culture of that set.

Are there any actors that particularly influenced you?

I’ve always enjoyed observing actors who do a variety of things in both film and television, and theater as well. Laura Linney is someone like that. Cate

— LAUREN PATTEN

I read that you have a degree in Creative Writing. Ever thought of script writing?

I’m starting to dabble in it. Mostly, I enjoy writing personal essays. Getting my college degree was very important to me. I spent a year at NYU, but it’s crazy expensive and getting aid can be tricky. Ultimately, I graduated from The New School.

What would you say to young people wanting to pursue theatrical arts?

Artistic endeavors are about connection. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

to shout out to?

My teachers from Belle Aire School. They’re a very supportive group. They have come to my shows. And my nephews, Jimmy and Henry. They’re my guys. (Lauren smiled).

Patten builds a palpable connection with audiences, as well as the theater community. Follow the link to share this moment with Patten and other notable Broadway personalities in a touching tribute to long-time Broadway lyricist and composer, Stephen Sondheim, on Times Square: https ://playbill .com/ar t icle/watchlin-manuel-miranda-sara-bareilles-moremembers-of-the-broadway -communit y celebrate-sondheim. Next time you’re on Broadway, be sure to find her in your playbill. ■

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Downers Grove Magazine | Special Feature

THE ENDING NUMBER FOR A CHORUS LINE PERFORMED BY GHOSTLIGHT. PHOTO BY CM STAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

TAKING CENTER STAGE Local theatre programs offer a wide variety of options for actors and audiences alike.

roadway went dark for over a year when the coronavirus pandemic hit. Performance venues were forced to shut their doors, leaving actors, directors, choreographers, set designers, and many others in the industry bereft. Theatergoers, too, yearned for the return of their favorite form of entertainment. Not only large-scale professional productions suffered during the theater shutdown. Communities also felt a local theatre void. However, it was during this lull in live performances that a new theatre program in the western suburbs began to come alive.

BY VALERIE HARDY

Introducing Ghostlight Educational Theatre Collective Based in Westmont, Ghostlight Educational Theatre Collective opened to the public this fall and recently closed its first session of shows. At the start of each performance, the audience heard the introduction, “Out of the darkness, our ghost light lights the way.” Micki Doherty - Ghostlight’s Artistic Director and one of its Founding Partners - explained the significance of the theatre’s name and tagline. A ghost light is often a single, exposed bulb, the only light on in an otherwise dark, unoccupied theater. Ghost lights have a safety function: to ensure the first person to enter a dark theater can see 38

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

well enough to navigate the space. However, the moniker comes from one of their other early uses: to ward off ghosts. For Doherty and the rest of her creative team, the ghost light concept perfectly symbolizes what the theater is to them: “always an alive place.” She added, “With COVID, theaters went dark. Ghostlight, as a company, is a new light for all of us.” However, for Doherty, the idea of starting an educational theatre program had been kindling for years. After graduating from the University of Illinois with a degree in production and musical theatre (a program she helped create), she went on to direct children’s musical theatre

for over 20 years. “It had always been a dream of mine to own a musical theatre company,” Doherty said, and “when I turned 50 [last year], I thought, ‘It’s now or never.’” From there, Doherty reached out to a few others who she thought would share her vision for a theatre program with an emphasis not only on performance but also on education and inclusion. Together with these partners – Alex Bahaveolos (Music Director), William Hunter Evans (Technical Director), Colleen Gibbons (Production Manager), and Carolina Menapace (Producer) – Ghostlight was born. With programming for kindergartners through college students, Ghostlight aims to provide the “most professional non-professional theatre experience,” Doherty said. In large part, this comes from the level to which performers are challenged. Doherty wants “the kids to sing the hard harmonies,” and when the choreographer for the theatre’s recent production of “A Chorus Line” asked her how difficult to make the choreography for the performers – some of whom were untrained dancers – Doherty’s response was, “Push ‘em!” Doherty believes wholeheartedly in the potential of the young performers with whom she works, and she knows the elation that comes when the worth of their hard work is realized. “There is nothing better than when they get off the stage and say, ‘We did it!’” Doherty said. “We challenge our kids to rise, and they’ll do it. They will rise.”

BRIGHTSIDE THEATRE PERFORMS DISNEY’S FROZEN JR. PHOTO BY CM STAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Ghostlight is able to challenge performers to the degree it does because of the environment Doherty, her team, and the young cast and crew have created. Doherty explained that Ghostlight is committed to inclusivity: “All children are welcome, regardless of identity, gender, monetary access…” Working toward non-profit status, Ghostlight strives to remove financial barriers to educational theatre by offering tuition payment plans and scholarships. The theatre emphasizes learning and having fun in a safe space. It is a culture that “all feeds down,” Doherty said. “We teach the high schoolers, who then come in to direct the K-8 program.”

From singing, dancing and acting to the educational side of costuming, light design, sound engineering, and set design, there is something for everyone at Ghostlight – including the audience. Upcoming musical productions include “Frozen Kids” (May 21-22) and “Legally Blonde Jr.” (May 20-22). Visit ghostlightetc.com for more information.

Another Theatre Program that Always Looks on the Bright Side Ten years prior to Ghostlight’s inaugural season, another local theatre program hit the suburban scene: BrightSide Theatre. A nonprofit professional theatre company, BrightSide

Continued on next page LOCAL ACTORS PERFORM GHOSTLIGHT’S PRODUCTION OF SHREK.

PHOTO BY CM STAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | Special Feature BAMtheatre: Two Decades of Education and Entertainment Like BrightSide and Ghostlight, BAMtheatre offers various educational theatre programming and performances throughout the western suburbs and beyond. Founded in 2001 by owner Melanie Lamoureux, BAMtheatre provides year-round opportunities for young performers (preschool through college) of all levels, serving as the creative home to more than 1,000 actors annually.

THE CAST OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL FROM BRIGHTSIDE THEATRE. PHOTO BY CM STAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Continued from the previous page offers paid performance opportunities for youth and adult actors as well as educational theatre camps and classes for children and adolescents. BrightSide’s Executive Director and Founding Member Julie Ann Kornak, a 25year Naperville resident and mother of three, explained that she was performing in a local community production when she and a couple colleagues – including BrightSide Co-Founder and Board of Directors Member Tin Penavic – decided to bring a professional-level theatre company to the suburbs. They all had families and were finding trekking to the city to rehearse and perform increasingly challenging. So they adopted the Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall on North Central College’s campus as their performance home, added Artistic Director Jeffrey Cass to the team, and quickly grew their programming. Today, BrightSide Theatre holds productions throughout the year: a fall play or musical, cabaret concert series, springtime play and children’s musical production, and summer musical. BrightSide also recently added a free Summer in the Park series, which features a musical revue. In its inaugural run last summer, the series – held at Naperville’s Wagner Family Pavilion – drew an audience of over 400 people per performance. BrightSide also runs musical theatre camps at the Pavilion as well as at the Downers Grove Swim and Racquet Club.

With a mission to educate, enlighten, and entertain its audiences, BrightSide Theatre upholds its name (which was derived from the song “Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life” from the musical “Spamalot”). Kornak explained that BrightSide tries to keep things light, producing primarily musicals and comedies. “We don’t need drama on the stage; we have enough of it in our lives,” she said. In addition to its optimism, BrightSide also strives for accessibility by keeping ticket prices low, holding free opportunities for people to experience the arts, and offering audio-described performances with touch tours for audience members who are blind or have limited vision. BrightSide also takes pride in its unique main stage performance space: with seating on three sides and no seat further than 25 feet from the stage, “it’s an intimate experience…the audience feels like they’re living in [the set],” Kornak said. BrightSide recently ran productions of the comical farce “Don’t Dress For Dinner” and the musical version of Disney’s “The Descendants” (the first, and perhaps only, show Kornak and her daughter will have performed in together). Slated to round out the season is the musical “Mamma Mia!” (June 3-19). For information about upcoming productions, or to register (starting in April) for summer camps, visit brightsidetheatre.com.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL JR. PERFORMED BY BAM SUMMER MAINSTAGE ACTORS.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Not only does BAM offer significant in-house programming, they also take the show on the road. BAMtheatre has a robust after-school enrichment program through which students can participate in musical theatre instruction, often culminating with a full production – all taking place right in their own schools. For many children throughout the Chicagoland area, BAM classes are their introduction to musical theatre and first time on stage. This month is busy for BAM: the Conservatory Ensemble presented “Zombie Prom” the first week of March and BAM’s Broadway Kids are performing Disney’s “Little Mermaid Jr.” (March 17-19). Summer is a peak season for BAM, including two mainstage productions – one for high school and college students and another for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. “Les Miserables” (School Edition) and Disney’s “Descendants” are this summer’s productions. BAM also incorporates a series of weeklong summer camps, “perfect for every kind of performer,” said Managing Director Julie Sommer Peterson. BAM’s programming and curriculum are guided by four tenets: inclusion, education, community, and innovation. “We strive to emphasize…focus, energy, enthusiasm, and joy,” Peterson said. “These are values that can be transferred into any facet of life – on or off the stage.” For tickets, or to register for auditions and camps, visit BAMtheatre.com. ■

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARI BASKIN

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Downers Grove Magazine | Giving Back

HEALING THROUGH HOPE Ian’s Place for Bereaved Parents provides a safe, supportive space for grieving parents

ug. 1, 2019 was a dividing line in Andy and Rebecca Wells’ life. Before that, for the Oak Brook couple - who first met while in preschool in Downers Grove - “life was awesome,” Rebecca said.

BY VALERIE HARDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA DUFFY

Through the community they built with other grieving parents coupled with the comfort they found in their faith, Andy and Rebecca began their journey toward healing and renewed hope, and they were moved to help other bereaved parents do the same. So they created Ian’s Place for

After challenges starting a family early in their marriage, Andy and Rebecca turned to in vitro fertilization and had three children: Jack, Ian, and Georgia. Rebecca was enjoying her last few years as a stay-at-home mom (Jack and Ian were on summer break from college and Georgia from high school), when she and Andy received a call that would change everything. They were informed that Ian, whose summer job involved unloading freight trains, had been involved in a fatal worksite accident.

Remodeling] who donated a lot of time, labor, and materials,” Andy said, they renovated the building to create a warm and welcoming space for bereaved parents to participate in grief groups as well as Bible studies aimed toward helping grieving parents heal. While – as the organization’s mission statement notes – Ian’s Place “exists to help bereaved parents find a place for comfort and healing in a Christian environment,” all are welcome. “We don’t disqualify anyone who comes in and isn’t a strong Christian,” Andy said, “but that’s where we found our hope.”

Opened in October, Ian’s Place provides individual outreach to bereaved parents in addition to grief groups and weekly Bible studies. IAN’S PLACE FOR BEREAVED PARENTS STEERING COMMITTEE. Steering committee member That call, a parent’s worst Sandy Lagestee explained nightmare, marked the “after” for the Wells Bereaved Parents in their late son’s honor, that Rebecca sends grieving parents a family. Deep in grief, Andy and Rebecca a place to help both newly bereaved parents card, blanket, and book (entitled “A Grace were searching for comfort. Andy went to and parents who have been grieving the loss Disguised: How the Soul Grows Through see a Christian counselor who he said was of a child for years find “healing through Loss” by Jerry Sittser) that brought Andy “a good guy, but he didn’t know.” He had hope for the future,” Rebecca explained. and her a lot of peace. And when they are not lost a child. ready – whether a month after their loss or Andy and Rebecca - together with a a year – Rebecca meets with each grieving Rebecca attended general grief and steering committee comprised of seven support groups but could not find what she other parents who had experienced parent who reaches out and lets them needed: connection with other bereaved the loss of a child along with two other know they are not alone. “While there is parents. “I wanted to meet with anyone compassionate friends – strive to bring no playbook for grieving,” Andy said, Ian’s who had lost a child and through all the bereaved parents together to make the Place is here as a “community to love you, grief and pain could still find joy. I finally devastating loss of a child less lonely. The to help you through this, and to help you started connecting, and I felt less numb, couple purchased the former locksmith realize there can be joy again at some point in your life.” less alone,” she said. building along the train line in Clarendon Hills, and, with the help of “a whole lot Visit iansplace.org for more information. ■ of people from my work [Normandy 42

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Downers Grove Magazine | History Vault

VETERANS COMMEMORATING MEMORIAL DAY AT POST 80.

SERVING VETERANS FOR OVER A CENTURY For the last 102 years, the American Legion has created a link between the military and local communities. BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN I PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE AMERICAN LEGION

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

A TABLE FOR THE POW, ALWAYS SET AND ALWAYS STANDING IN THE LOUNGE, TO COMMEMORATE THE POWS.

he American Legion was founded in Paris in March of 1919 by members of the American Expeditionary Force, a formation of the United States Army on the Western Front of World War I. Congress chartered The American Legion the following September. It is the world’s largest veteran’s organization with posts in many World War I Allied nations, advocating patriotism throughout the U.S. through community outreach programs. Membership in the American Legion is open to any veteran with an honorable discharge. Post 80 is named after Alexander Bradley Burns, the first resident soldier of Downers Grove killed in action during World War I. Burns graduated in the class of 1916 from Downers Grove High School, (now DGN). He enlisted in the army soon after the start of the war. He was killed in action in March of 1918. The Legion serves an important tie between veterans and the greater Downers Grove and DuPage community, through a variety of

relevant activities. One hundred years ago, Post 80 initiated the honor of decorating soldiers’ graves in area cemeteries for Memorial Day. The Memorial Day Parade also shifted into the hands of post volunteers that same year when veterans of the Civil War were aging out of the ability to march or organize it. Also in 1922, American Legion members planned the first official Independence Day parade through town, ending at the Maple Grove Forest Preserve. The annual village July 4th celebration, now a combined effort with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), is descendent of that first one organized by Post 80. A decade later in 1932, at the height of the Great Depression, Legion members approached the Village to organize a centennial celebration for Downers Grove’s 100th year, to raise morale and keep spirits up during a trying time. All Downers Grove businesses and organizations were included and offered the opportunity to participate. The result, according to a local newspaper, was “an amazing day that lifted many spirits and created thousands of smiles.”

For decades, the American Legion has been a strong link between military awareness and the local community. Through an all-hands-on-deck efforts of post volunteers, and carefully orchestrated collaboration of the DG and Westmont Fire Departments, the Legion hosted the Vietnam Moving Wall in 2009. For three days, community members were offered the chance to peruse a replica of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C., set up on the grounds. All funds to make this possible were raised and donated by the Legion. Volunteers built the stand for the 375-foot wall. Wannemakers Home and Garden Store donated the flowers for the event, making it all the more aesthetic, along with statues of a male and female soldier, which now adorn the fireplace in the post’s lounge. The Legion is also very supportive of actor Gary Sinise’s Honor Flight, an organization that offers veterans a paid trip to visit Washington D.C. war memorials, guided by volunteers. A group of post members chatted with Sinise at a recent Honor Flight banquet at DuPage Airport.

Continued on next page DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | History Vault

Continued from the previous page

The post is available for rent and which monitors the migration habits has hosted many events, from school of the monarch butterfly. There is fundraisers to weddings. The banquet a Monarch Way station, providing hall, equipped with a full kitchen resources necessary for monarchs to and bar, can accommodate up to 250. produce successive generations, on There are also a gazebo and outdoor the grounds. The Legion also raises pavilion available for rent on the honeybees. The sale of the honey grounds. The post is situated on harvested provides funding for approximately ten and a half acres of natural prairie, which are maintained by Boy Scout Troop 80, the resident troop, along with a cast of volunteers. A 1976 U.S. Bicentennial project appointed a section of land dedicated to the creation of a Veteran’s Memorial Park, with a 30-foot obelisk directly south of the front entrance. Local veterans are memorialized in this area through a plaque affixed to the monument. There are also many trees dedicated to individual soldiers. The Legion HONEY RAISED BY THE LEGION WHICH FUNDS is a member of the Monarch LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS. Watch Organization, a group 48

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

agricultural scholarships at DGN and DGS high schools. Since the program started in 2009, over $38,000 has been contributed to this fund. The Legion also grants additional monetary school awards to all local middle and high schools. All are welcome to play Bingo every Tuesday evening. Doors open at 4.00, with early games starting at 6.30. Stop by the American Legion for Family and Friends Night, held once a month. All community members are invited to play board games, pool or shuffleboard, sit by the fire in the lounge with a cocktail from the bar, or tour the museum of artifacts with Historian Dave Wisbrock. ■

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Drive in, drive out and get on with your day. It’s that easy. Our convenient, new Drive-thru Lab and Vaccine Service is open in Downers Grove. Now, it’s easier than ever to get your lab tests and COVID-19 tests and vaccines completed. 4 Simple lab tests and vaccines by appointment*, including rapid strep tests, bloodwork and COVID-19 tests and vaccines 4 A three-lane, enclosed drive-thru that protects you from the weather while our team comes to your vehicle 4 Convenient online scheduling 24/7 for vaccines and most lab tests 4 Services for patients of all ages – newborns and up *Physician orders are required for all lab tests.

To make an appointment or learn more, visit EEHealth.org/drive-thru.

DRIVE-THRU SERVICES 2205 BUTTERFIELD ROAD DOWNERS GROVE Weekdays | 6:30 am – 6:30 pm Weekends | 6:30 am – 2:30 pm

A. Kathleen Barauski

Robert V. Borla

Gina Birmingham

A COMBINED 75 YEARS OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE Robert V. Borla

Bob is a lifelong resident of the Midwest. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and the University of Illinois Law School. He and his wife, Trish, reside in Downers Grove. Bob is a past chairman of the DuPage County Bar Association Real Estate Law Committee, and a member of the Mainstreet Organization of Realtors BrokerLawyer Committee. He has been involved in drafting the current Real Estate Contract 7.0 and the contracts preceding it. Bob also assists clients in creating their Estate Planning and Wills.

Gina Birmingham

Gina joined the Borla North team in November of 2018. Originally from northeastern Lake County, she now resides in Chicago with her husband, 7 month old daughter, and their dog Bailey. Gina’s practice consists largely of real estate but also includes other areas of law such as estate planning, probate, trust administration, business transactions, and more. Gina received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University and her Juris Doctor from the John Marshall Law School.

Real Estate Estate Planning Business & Corporate Civil Litigation Family Law Probate

A. Kathleen Barauski

Kate grew up in the great Pacific Northwest and never expects to become accustomed to winter in Chicago. Kate’s practice includes general litigation, landlord/tenant issues, estate planning, probate, and real estate. Kate believes zealous client advocacy does not always include litigation, which can be a long, expensive process with no guarantee of success. Kate favors collaborating with clients to negotiate a fair dispute resolution, if possible, as a practical, cost-effective alternative to litigation. Kate earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Boise State University, her Master of Arts degree from the University of Michigan, and her Juris Doctor from The John Marshall Law School. Kate was admitted to the practice of law in 2000.

6912 Main Street, Suite 200, Downers Grove, Illinois 60516 Phone: 630-969-3903 • Fax: 630-969-3931 • www.borlanorth.com

featuring MARY BRAATZ

Remax Enterprises 1219 Ogden Ave. Downers Grove, IL. 60515 (630) 258-7677 braatzm@gmail.com www.MaryBraatz.com

Downers Grove Magazine S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

R E A LT O R PROFILES

DRISCOLL CRISP

Tracy Driscoll & Diane Crisp Platinum Partners Realtors 5200 Main Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 (630) 674-8320 tracydriscoll@att.net (630) 842-8258 dianecrisphomes@gmail.com www.driscollcrisp.com

ELAINE PAGELS GROUP

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago 5150 Main St. Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-780-1205 elainepagelsgroup@bhhschicago.com

NATALIE WEBER

KW Experience Realty 5122 Main St A Downers Grove, IL 60515 (630) 915-1449 NatalieWeber.Realtor@gmail.com

DGM R E A LT O R P R O F I L E S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Mary has been assisting buyers and homeowners in Downers Grove since 1987. She joined Remax Enterprises in 1992. Mary Braatz has been consistently one of the top agents in the area for many years. She provides Five Star personalized service to her clients. Mary prides herself on timely attention to every detail through closing time. Call Mary today for your individual consultation.

Mary Braatz Broker

Remax Enterprises 1219 Ogden Ave. Downers Grove, IL. 60515 630 258-7677 braatzm@gmail.com www.MaryBraatz.com

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DGM R E A LT O R P R O F I L E S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Driscoll Driscoll CrispCrisp

• Top 1% of Area Agents • Combined 35 Years Experience • Multi-Million Dollar Top Producing Agents • Hundreds of Happy Clients!

Your Hometown Realtors Your Hometown Realtors

Tracy Driscoll/Diane Crisp • Top 1% of Area Tracy Driscoll/Diane Crisp Platinum Partners Realtors 5200 Main Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 www.driscollcrisp.com

• Combined 35 Years

You’d be hard pressed to find two people who know more about Downers Grove than Platinum Partners Agents Realtors Tracy Driscoll and Diane Crisp. Born and raised in DG, they’ve centered their professional Experience lives around helping people find properties in the western suburbs and village they call home.

• Chicago Magazine 5 Star Award • PPR Owner Status since 2017From Pre-School to Platinum

Tracy and Diane met in pre-school...their kids’ preschool. They both were involved in the Downers You’d be hard pressed to find two people Grove community, came from a sales-focused who know more about Downers Grove than background and were working in real estate tracydriscoll@att.net Platinum Partners Realtors Tracystep Driscoll independently. It seemed a natural to combine their talents - ultimately building one of 630.674.8320 the real estate in the andstrongest Diane Crisp. Born partnerships and raised in DG,western suburbs. dianecrisphomes@gmail.com they’ve centered their professional lives 630.842.8258 Hyper-Local Clientfind Service around helping people properties in the Deep local knowledge and attention client service sets Tracy and Diane apart from other western suburbs and village they call to home. agents. They are both full-time, experienced, licensed brokers - offering one seamless connection to their clients. Because there’s two, Tracy and Diane are able to provide their From Pre-School to Platinum clients 24-hour direct access to the expertise they need when they need it - not through Tracy andorDiane met in pre-school...their assistants newly licensed brokers. Their 95% referral rate is a testament to their outstanding kids’ preschool. They both were involved service. in the Downers Grove community, came from a sales-focused background and were Continual Innovation estate independently. It working in real evolving With a constantly real estate landscape, Tracy and Diane strive to offer their clients seemed a natural step to combine their talents building of theand strongest the- ultimately latest in real estate one products technology. From Guaranteed Listing Agreements to virtual staging and social marketing, they offer unique, cutting edge products to ensure their real estate partnerships in the western suburbs. clients receive the best real estate has to offer.

Hyper-Local Client Service

Western Suburbs 2022 Deep local knowledge and attention to client service sets Tracy and Diane apart from other one knows better than Tracy andseamless Diane that the western suburbs are a great place to be, agents. They are both full-time, experienced,No licensed brokers - offering one combining value and liveability - the ability to walk to retail, restaurants and entertainment connection to their clients. Because there’s - with a deep sense of community. From hometown kids to your hometown realtors - they two, Tracy and Diane are able to providecouldn’t imagine a better place to live and work. TRACY & DIANE ON DG their clients 24-hour direct access to the Favorite restaurant growing up? expertise they need when they need it - not TRACY & DIANE DG brokers. Diane: Shaky’s Pizza Parlor on through assistants or newlyON licensed Ogden Avenue. Tracy: Barnaby’s Their 95% referral is a OUT: testament to their FAVORITE FAMILYrate NIGHT Pizza on Ogden Avenue Tracy - Walk service. to town for ice cream or a movie. outstanding Diane - Bowling at the Tivoli Bowl or finding some live music outdoor dining in downtown DG. Fun & Memory?

FAVORITE Innovation RESTAURANT: Continual

Tracy: Bike and Pet Parade on the

Tracy -aGiaconstantly Mia-the dailyevolving lunch special is hard to beat. 4th of July in Deer Creek where I With real estate Diane - Foxtail for brunch. I recommend the bloody mary-Yum! grew up. Diane: Getting the DG landscape, Tracy and Diane strive to offer Reporter and reading the wedding FAVORITE their clients ACTIVITIES the latest inFOR realKIDS: estate products Tracy - Golfing at the Downers Grove Golf Course and taking my kids to the YMCA to learn how to swim when they were younger. and birth announcements. and technology. From Guaranteed Listing Diane - My kids still love the 4th of July parade and fireworks. The Rotary Grove Fest and hiking through Lyman Woods are great too. Favorite shop in DG in the 80’s? Agreements to virtual staging and social DOWNERS GROVE FUN FACTS: Tracy: Someplace Else for cute marketing, they offer unique, cutting edge • Downers Grove was named after Pierce Downer, the first permanent resident who moved here from upstate NY in 1832. stickers and stationary products to ensure their clients receive the • The Blodgett House, built in 1842 was a stop on the Underground Railroad. best real estate has to offer. What activities did you

• The Tivoli Theatre opened in 1928 as only the second theater in the world designed for sound pictures and features a Wurlitzer organ. do in high school: • The historic Downers Grove Golf Course is the country’s first golf course to feature 18 holes when it first opened in 1892 designed by Western Suburbs 2020 Diane: Marching band and noted architect Charles Blair Macdonald. basketball cheerleader at DGS No one knows better than Tracy and Diane • Downers Grove had a collection of as many as 200 do it yourself Sears Catalog homes built from the 1910s - 1940s. You can still take a walking or R T I S that I N G the F E AT U R E suburbs are a great place driving western tour of 24 of these homes. Best thing about being from DG?

to be, combining value and livability - the ability to walk to retail, restaurants and entertainment - with a deep sense of community. From hometown kids to your hometown realtors - they couldn’t imagine a better place to live and work.

Tracy: The people and sense of community. It’s a true village. Diane: Warm and friendly people. I always feel like I see a friend wherever I go!

DGM R E A LT O R P R O F I L E S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Elaine Pagels Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago 5150 Main St. Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-780-1205

L-R: Lucy Hilt, Elaine Pagels and Brita Pagels The Elaine Pagels Group is comprised of three generations of brokers who have almost a century of combined experience. They work together or individually for the benefit of their clients resulting in lifelong friendships and referral business. The team’s professional experience includes business ownership, sales, arts, consulting, sustainability planning. The team’s closed real estate transactions rank them in the top half percent of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices of America agents in the country.

MEET THE TEAM:

Elaine Pagels is results-orientated team leader, deeply committed to clients, proactive, and effective

in her approach to business. Experienced at navigating tough markets and negotiations, Elaine works diligently to provide her clients with a continuous flow of information, empowering them to make educated decisions. Elaine specializes in working with sellers, buyers, investors, luxury, and relocation clients. For several years Elaine has been a recipient of the Chairman’s Circle ranking her among the top percent of BHHS agents in the country as well as the BHHS Chicago Hall of Fame. Phone: 630.780.1205 epagels@bhhschicago.com

Lucy Hilt was named a 2015 Chicago Five Star Real Estate Agent. Lucy, a real estate broker/owner for

many years in the Chicago metro area since 1976, specializes in purchases and sales in DuPage County, Cook County, and relocations domestically and internationally. Her total commitment to her clients’ real estate interests generates lifelong clients. Apparently we aren’t the only ones saying, “I Love Lucy”! Phone: 630.780.1204 lhilt@bhhschicago.com

Brita Pagels was educated as an urban planner. She works on issues related to the built environment broaching real estate development, historic preservation, sustainability and urban planning. Whether Brita’s clients are looking to relocate, purchase their first home, a luxury home, investment property, or anything in- between, Brita’s superior knowledge of the Chicago and west suburban markets makes her an ideal broker to help you achieve your real estate goals. Phone: 630.780.1214 bpagels@bhhschicago.com Sara Schutte

2021 Chairman’s Circle Diamond Small Teams

2021 10 Year Legend

©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

has been working full-time in real estate for four years, but has spent her entire career in training for this multifaceted job! Sara can handle the many moving parts of real estate with ease and confidence and with plenty of personal experience, Sara can appreciate that moving is both a complex and highly emotional time of life. With that level of understanding and her vast prior work experience in tow, Sara has found her forever job in real estate. Phone: 206.696.1520 sschutte@bhhschicago.com

Brian O’Neill developed a passion for Real Estate, architecture and design while looking through stacks of “Parade of Homes” magazines during a family move at a young age in his hometown of Kansas City. Since moving to the Chicagoland area in 2009, the discovery of new and ever-changing neighborhoods and towns outside the city has also become a passion. Sharing that knowledge of the different markets has become second nature. Driving long distances, discussing endless remodeling possibilities, touring homes, studying floor plans, reading contracts and even navigating dark crawlspaces are all part of the business; and all done with absolute pleasure. Phone: 913.626.1512 boneill@bhhschicago.com

DGM R E A LT O R P R O F I L E S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Natalie Weber

• #1 Individual Agent Downers Grove 2020 & 2021* • #1 Producer New Construction Downers Grove 2021*

Real Estate Broker

• Top #1 Producer Chicagoland* • 47 Units & Over 27M Closed ‘21*

KW Experience Realty 5122 Main St A Downers Grove 60515 (630) 915-1449 NatalieWeber.Realtor@gmail.com Client Testimonials & Production: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ natalieweberrealtor

• 15 Year Experienced Realtor Downers Grove *MRED Data 2020-2021 Closed Volume

A Local Trusted Expert Living it and Loving it! Natalie has been surrounded by the Real Estate business her entire life. Raised in the western suburbs by her mother and grandparents, she grew up with two generations of home builders. Summers were spent on her grandfather’s construction sites. After graduation, Natalie worked for Lehman Brothers in the wholesale mortgage division as an Account Executive. Spending 7 years in account management provided Natalie with extensive finance experience in corporate business-to-business sales and lending. In 2007, Natalie earned her real estate license and a year later she and her husband started a custom home building business, which was their primary focus through 2017. With her extensive lending, investing, and building experience Natalie decided to make her role as a realtor her main focus. Local builders now search out Natalie to market and sell their new construction properties throughout the Western Suburbs. Having had personal experience as a successful real estate investor and builder has given Natalie a unique edge especially for clients that are looking to buy New Construction. When you hire Natalie, you hire a versatile professional that works at the highest level, is a true advocate for her clients, and is known for her sharp negotiation skills. Clients can expect to remain in touch with Natalie long after closing, turning to her as a trusted resource within the community for contractor recommendations or local connections. Your local resource for a lifetime.

Results Oriented, Client Focused

An incredible work ethic, expertise in construction, and local market knowledge are only a few of the reasons Natalie has quickly risen as one of the top selling Real Estate Brokers in not only Downers Grove, but the entire MLS Chicagoland area spanning over 8 Counties. Natalie’s primary goal is customer satisfaction, and 99% of her full time real estate clients are referral based. Her expert knowledge in pricing real estate, sharp eye for marketing, home staging, and her local social media presence has captured the market, resulting in her business doubling year after year. Natalie personally guides each client through one of the biggest financial decisions in their life, all the while ensuring that the clients have all the information to make the best decision for themselves and/or family. She is the main point of contact during the entire home selling/buying process for her clients. She laughs when recounting being described as a “bulldog” by her clients due to her tenacity and perseverance to get a deal to the finish line.

A Sense of Community

Natalie and her husband Luke have lived in Downers Grove for 17 years, during that time they have welcomed their 3 children. The family has had the pleasure of living in 5 different neighborhoods of Downers Grove over the course of two decades! The Weber family truly loves this town and can often be found enjoying the Farmers Market in the summer, painting windows for Halloween in downtown, visiting Santa during the Gingerbread Festival, and enjoying a summer concert or two at Fischel Park. They have experienced a genuine sense of community love that spans all neighborhoods in this town, making them proud to call Downers Grove home. Supporting the community & her clients is a cornerstone of Natalie’s business. From sponsoring youth sports programs to donating to local food pantries to participating in fundraisers, and assisting with community programs, giving back to the community is a priority all year long. Natalie is truly grateful for each client, treating each as though they are a long-time neighbor! A true testament to “Love Where You Live”.

Downers Grove Magazine | Travel

Here are eight great types of trips for Family Reunions & Multigenerational Travel BY VALERIE HARDY I PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CORRESPONDING FEATURED RESORT

Families across the nation are clamoring for quality time together after being apart for far too long, and more and more people are extolling experiences as the best gifts money can buy, ones that keep on giving through the memories made. However, when planning multigenerational travel or a destination family reunion, there is no one-size-fits-all option. To help you decide on the perfect fit for your family, here are our top 10 types of trips that are sure to be full of fun for the entire fam.

If Midwest is Best For families centrally located around Chicagoland, a drivable destination may be desirable. Check out these picks recommended by reader Kim Venzon.

Honey Creek Resort at Rathbun Lake - Moravia, IA

The resort’s pavilion is ideal for hosting family reunions, and the cottages on the property offer an alternative to multiple hotel rooms for larger families. With an indoor waterpark, 18-hole championship golf course, jet skiing, biking, kayaking, fishing and more, your family will fall in love with this locale.

The Roundhouse Retreat Guesthouse - Decorah, IA

A unique geodesic home on a multi-acre wooded property, this is an ideal getaway for families looking to relax, recharge, and have an all-around good time together. This unique rental home has three levels and sleeps up to 24 people.

Beachwalk Resort* Michigan City, IN

Located across from five miles of uninterrupted Lake Michigan beachfront, nature’s beauty abounds at Beachwalk. Families can rent colorful custom-built homes of varying sizes from Beachwalk Vacation Rentals and travel by foot, bike, or golf cart to all resort amenities, including an interior lake, playground, pool, activity center with Bocci and shuffleboard, and tennis, basketball, and beach volleyball courts. Photo courtesy of Beachwalk Vacation Rentals

Carving out Family Time on the Slopes is Sure to Lift Your Spirits Love to ski or snowboard (or simply après-ski)? Grab your gear and visit one of these recommended mountain retreats.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort* - Stateline, NV

Located near the Heavenly Mountain Resort, this resort provides luxurious lodge packages and villa suite options for when you come to ski the Sierra Nevada Mountains. From morning yoga to hot cocoa socials and evening s’mores, all resort activities are complimentary for guests. With its Edgewood on Ice ice-skating experience in South Lake Tahoe, this alpine retreat is right there for you to reconnect with loved ones.

Big Sky Resort* - Big Sky, MT

Direct flights into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, only 45 minutes from Big Sky, make this one of the easiest ski towns to access. The resort has numerous hotel and vacation rental accommodation options and an extensive list of winter activities: skiing, ziplining, dogsledding, snow mobiling, snowshoe tours, sleigh rides and more. Bundle up and come visit. 56

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

When All are Included, Consider an All-Inclusive From recreation to restaurants, everything you need is in one place at an all-inclusive resort. And since everything is paid for in advance, the hassle of haggling over how to split bills is eliminated. Plus, from kids clubs to performances to piña coladas by the pool, there is something for everyone.

Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana* Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Situated along the clear waters of Juanillo Beach, this resort offers the ultimate escape and access to an abundance of excursions, including deep-sea fishing. With 12 restaurants and bars on site, even the pickiest eaters will surely find something to please their palates.

Grand Velas* Riviera Maya, Mexico

The white sand beaches, stunning Caribbean coastline, and lush Mayan Jungle are the perfect backdrop for family fun in the sun. The resort features three distinctive ambiances – the Ambassador and Zen Grand being the most family-friendly – five signature restaurants and a Baby Concierge, Kids’ Club, and Teens’ Club.

Nature & Nurture To reconnect with nature and each other, families have many options. From dude ranches to camping and glamping, the great outdoors await you. Make reservations well in advance of your travel dates, however, because many venues in this category tend to fill up fast.

Under Canvas*

If a national park or landmark is on your family’s itinerary, check to see if one of Under Canvas’s 10 locations is along the way, and book your stay. You will be one with nature without forgoing any creature comforts when you camp out in one of their upscale, private tents. Photo courtesy of @BaileyMade

The Resort & Ranch at Paws Up* Greenough, MT

This 37,000-acre working ranch offers an authentic dude ranch experience with trail rides, cattle drives and chuck wagon dinners. Ten miles of the Blackfoot River flow through the property, and fly-fishing, white-water rafting and many other activities will keep your family busy from sunup to sundown. You will all be ready to hit the hay in one of the resort’s private luxury homes or safari-style tents by day’s end. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | Travel

Linking Back Up If your family enjoys golf and you want a destination guaranteed to be a hole in one, these resorts are right on course.

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas* La Romana, Dominican Republic

Open for nearly 50 years, Casa de Campo was the first resort in the Dominican Republic. It features three Pete Dye golf courses and three pristine white sand beaches along with a wide variety of guest room options and breathtaking vacation villas. Come for the golf, and stay for all the privacy and luxury this resort offers.

La Cantera Resort & Spa* San Antonio, TX

Situated atop the highest elevation point in the city and near attractions like the famed River Walk, the resort is home to a Championship Golf Course, La Cantera Golf Club. To relax after a round of golf, visit the resort’s sizeable spa with outdoor Sky Loft Treatment Suites or one of five sparkling pools before retreating to one of the property’s individual rooms or highly appointed villas and suites.

When You Already Hit the Family Jackpot For groups that like to gamble, you don’t need to roll the dice on your family’s destination. Visit one of these tried and true casino resorts.

Excalibur Hotel + Casino Las Vegas, NV

If you have a furry, four-legged family member you can’t bear to leave behind, request a dog-friendly room for your stay at Excalibur. The castle theme, onsite arcade, pools, and Tournament of Kings dinner and show experience bring fullscale Vegas fun (even if you aren’t yet 21).

Baha Mar* Nassau, The Bahamas

Choose from three oceanfront hotels, and test your luck at the Baha Mar Casino that has floor-to-ceiling windows looking out on the crystal blue Bahamian water. While the adults have “slots” of fun at the casino, the kids can soak up the sun with unlimited access to the all-new Baha Bay waterpark.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

A Destination that will Certainly Make a Splash Unpredictable climates a concern? Wash away the weather worries at an indoor waterpark like one of these.

Great Wolf Lodge* Minneapolis/Bloomington, MN

Near the famed Mall of America, this resort features waterslides galore and so much more. There are three different types of suites in which to stay, and between the waterpark, rockclimbing wall, ropes course, arcade, miniature bowling alley and mining company adventure, the kids (and kids at heart) will undoubtedly sleep well after a full day.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center* - Nashville, TN

This luxury resort is home to the nation’s first upscale indoor/ outdoor resort water attraction: SoundWaves. Its themed attraction names are true to Nashville’s music roots, and with relaxing water features as well as energized rides and immersive tunes, this resort includes plenty of places for full family fun but also offers adult-only indoor and outdoor spaces.

“Grandma & Grandpa’s Bucket List” Trips Let your family’s matriarch and/or patriarch drive the decision on where to go for your next multigenerational getaway. They may have been saving up for a trip to their dream destination for years and will appreciate nothing more than experiencing it with their most cherished people.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort* Maui, HI

You will feel like you are in a private tropical paradise in one of the resort’s rooms, suites, or luxury villas with up to four bedrooms. Expansive views of the Pacific Ocean compel visitors to partake in one of many underwater adventures during their stay. An onsite Polynesian luau and a day trip to the trails of volcano at nearby Haleakala National Park will round out this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Borgo Pignano* Tuscany, Italy

The Tuscan countryside awaits you at Borgo Pignano. With hotel accommodations and several villas on the property – along with an infinity pool, orchards, gardens and woodland paths – there is no need to wander far from the serene estate, but food and wine enthusiasts may wish to venture out and sample some of Italy’s finest cuisine and varieties of vino.

The Shore Club* Turks and Caicos

The Shore Club’s Estate Villas accommodate up to 14 people each, and offer unparalleled views of Long Bay’s turquoise waves. With suites also on the property, this private oceanfront setting promises your family time together in the lap of luxury.

*Destination recommended by travel advisor Sarah Bogaczyk of Connections Luxury Travel. For help picking the perfect place for your next trip, visit connectionsluxurytravel.com.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine | Fine Arts

Faust Has Arrived At Lizzadro Museum Complete With Intricate Stone Carvings and Collaborative Music Performances

ecently, Lizzadro Museum Director Dorothy Asher arranged for the first United States exhibit of fourteen beautifully carved agate cameos from Germany’s Roth-Cameo Studio, portraying Faust’s adventures. Agate is a variety of quartz and is naturally banded in color. Agate along with shell is most commonly used in cameo carving. The story of Faust, of course, is man’s dissatisfaction with the finite limits on man’s potential. Faust’s, dissatisfaction becomes a driving force in all his adventures to get beyond the boundaries of human experience and perception. Ultimately, the story of Faust concludes on a positive note, which makes it so universal in its appeal.

BY LARRY ATSEFF

She wanted to bring the exhibit to Lizzadro because “It’s very unique,” she said. “There are 14 very large cameo pieces that are all themed. That’s highly unusual. The pieces are based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s version of the

and connect to this mystic story in completely different ways.” Every first Sunday through April popup concerts featuring Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra musicians will perform at the Museum. Upcoming concerts: February 6 - Woodwind Quintet, March 6 - String Quartet, April 3 - Solo Harp. Performances are at 2:00 p.m., 45-minutes, all ages are welcome. This collaboration is funded in part by grants from the DuPage Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

THE CREATION OF HOMUNCULUS, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STORY: WAGNER HAS BEEN JOINED IN HIS LABORATORY BY MEPHISTO. WAGNER SHOWS HIS NEWEST CREATION, A HUMAN FORM. IT IS NOT A REAL HUMAN, AND THE HORNS OF THE DEVIL CAN BE SEEN ON ITS HEAD. THE HOMUNCULUS IMPLORES THE DEVIL TO ACCOMPANY FAUST AND HE TO GREECE FOR THE CLASSICAL WALPURGIS NIGHT.

German legend about a man who sells his soul to the devil for unlimited knowledge. The scenes are realistically portrayed. The last cameo “Faust Without an End” is the largest two-sided cameo in the world, nearly two-feet high. In its own right, the exhibit is spectacular and meaningful. But Asher wanted to do more. She said “I wanted to collaborate with other arts, like music and acting. I wanted to make it a celebration of different forms of art.” Appropriately, the show is titled “The Artful Soul of Faust”. PROLOGUE IN HEAVEN BEGINS THE STORY: GOD AND THE DEVIL, MEPHISTO, MAKE A BET TO SETTLE A DISPUTE ABOUT MANKIND, USING DR. FAUST AS AN EXAMPLE. AS LONG AS FAUST LIVES, THE DEVIL MAY ATTEMPT TO INFLUENCE HIM WITH EARTHLY PLEASURES AND STEAL HIS SOUL, BUT IF MEPHISTO'S JUDGMENT OF FAUST IS WRONG, HE WILL HAVE TO ADMIT THAT "A GOOD MAN WITH ALL HIS PROBLEMS, STILL KNOWS THE PATH THAT IS GOOD." MEPHISTO AND GOD ARE BOTH CONFIDENT OF WINNING, AND THE BARGAIN IS SEALED.

Specifically, she arranged for certain live performances at the Museum featuring actors from First Folio in Theater. Their first performance was January 23, others may be added. Actor Nick Sandys said, “The crossover between artforms is what fascinated me as a human being. That I can be moved by a piece of poetry and equally by a piece of pottery is fascinating to me. They can be equally powerful emotional spots for us to delve into our humanness 60

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

FAUST AWAKENING, THIS CAMEO DEPICTS FAUST IN A DREAM STATE AS THE GOOD ASPECTS OF HIS SOUL HELP HIM TO BREAK FREE OF THE EVIL ASPECTS OF HIS FORMER LIFE. AIR SPIRITS DANCE AROUND HIM IN AN IDEALIZED LANDSCAPE WHERE THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NIGHT AND DAY. HE WILL SOON TAKE A PURGING BATH IN THE RIVER LETHE, THE RIVER OF FORGETTING.

The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art is located at: 1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, Illinois. For more information about the Museum go to: www.lizzadromuseum.org. Register for programs at: https://lizzadromuseum. org/calendar/. All programs are limited capacity and face coverings are required. ■

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Downers Grove Magazine | Community Scene

The Grove Foundation The Grove Foundation awarded $11,700 to 12 local nonprofit organizations at a recent gathering. “Cumulatively we have granted nearly $70,000 since this annual grant process started,” says Karen Laio, Grant Program Coordinator. 2021 recipients included DuPage PADS, Sharing Connections, Hope’s Front Door, FISH food pantry and Alex’s Mission. The increase in demand for mental health care during the pandemic was evident in the applications from awardees including NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), SamaraCare and Grit2. The grant program is funded through the Foundation’s two fundraisers. For more information, please visit www.thegrovefoundation.org.

THE GROVE FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS (L TO R): LESLIE SADOWSKI-FUGITT, BRUCE SWANSON, MOLLY BONANNO, RACHEL NEUSTADT, MARY ELLEN YOUNG, CATHY MAHONEY, KAREN LAIO AND GREG HOSÉ. (MISSING: LOIS KOPIS AND SCOTT LINCOLN)

Photos courtesy of the Grove Foundation.

REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE 12 RECIPIENT ORGANIZATIONS WITH THE GROVE FOUNDATION BOARD STANDING IN THE BACK OF THE ROOM. MEETING WAS HELD AT THE LINCOLN CENTER ON DECEMBER 1, 2021.

The Grove Express The Grove Express 5K was launched this year by a collaborative of community organizations to continue the Downers Grove Thanksgiving Day tradition started originally by the Bonfield Foundation. The Roadrunners Soccer Club, the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, and the Downers Grove Rotary Club organized the run that attracted over 4,700 people in the community. The 5K raised close to $200,000 to help support education and youth programming for District 58 and District 99 schools. The community outpouring of support confirmed that this Thanksgiving Day tradition is a necessary gathering for thousands of family and friends every year.

GROVE EXPRESS STARTING LINE

GROVE EXPRESS WITH MAYOR BOB BARNETT AND WILL KUPISCH

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Ice Festival The Annual Downtown Downers Grove Ice Festival returned in February. Hundreds of attendees watched live ice carving demonstrations at the event and were able to peruse nearly sixty sculptures in front of several local businesses downtown. Thanks to Downers Grove Downtown Management for bringing this event to our community every year. Photography courtesy of 726 Visuals

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St. Mary of Gostyn St. Mary of Gostyn held its annual fundraiser, the We Are One SMG Gala in February. The event, held at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort, featured dueling pianos entertainment, a silent auction, and spirited live auction. With nearly 300 attendees, the event raised over $225,000 for the school. Photographer - Hawa Images, Roxanne Engstrom

GALA ATTENDEES BID ON ONE OF THE MANY EXCITING LIVE AUCTION ITEMS.

AUCTION CHAIR ANNIE DELANO AND EVENT CHAIR NATALIE PARRILLO

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Downers Grove Magazine |Fashion

VIOLETS ARE BLUE. MoraBrand lavender pants suit, $135. etsy.com

FEELIN’ BLUE. Jane blazer, $282. revolve.com

THINK PINK. Mohair knit sweater, $340. us.sandro-paris.com

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WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS. Dolce & Gabbana Cicily bag in dauphine calfskin, $1,695. dolcegabbana.com

From hot pink to sky blue, canary yellow to soft lilac, Spring fashion 2022 is packed with bright punches of color. By Kerrie Kennedy pring is the season of new beginnings, as flowers bloom and the world seems to come alive again. With optimism in the air, there’s no better way to express that feeling than with a wardrobe exploding with color. As legendary fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert once observed, “fashion; it’s history in fabric. It frames the time you live and the place you live, and the mood of the people.”With that in mind, here are a few fashionable ways to add a little color into your style game this spring:

S 64

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT. Lacoste mid-length textured pleated dress, $128.99. lacoste.com

FLOWER POWER. VChics Shirt Collar Bell Sleeve Floral Printed Coat, $73. vchics.com

SUBLIME LIME. Ralph Lauren classic fit mesh polo shirt, $95 ralphlauren.com

ORANGE IS THE NEW CHIC. Rotate Birger Christeansen belted ruffled chiffon midi dress, $164. net-a-porter.com

PEACHAY KEEN. Tory Burch Good Luck Trainer in peach parfait, $278. toryburch.com

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

OLIVE WITH A TWIST. Fleece shacket, $129. goodamerican.com

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Downers Grove Magazine March 2022

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