Downers Grove Magazine September 2019

DOWNERS GROVE’S

LISA KOLAVENNU

NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF WELLNESS HOUSE

INSIDE DOWNERS GROVE: LOCAL INFLUENCERS

STERIGENICS: WHAT’S IN THE AIR?

COMMUNITY EVENTS: ROTARY GROVEFEST

Hinsdale Magazine Group

WELCOME NEIGHBORS

Hello Neighbor,

After an exhaustive search in the suburbs, (and with limited knowledge of anything outside of the Chicago city limits as natives of Michigan and New York,) my husband and I considered ourselves lucky to stumble upon the town of Downers Grove on our home search.

We realized quickly that the town is a hidden gem of a city, offering a short commute, beautiful parks, great schools and a warm, inviting downtown. I remember sitting at Ballydoyle’s Irish Pub to decide our fate. How do we choose our forever home?

Fast forward 12 years. We are now certain our family is in the right home and town where we are meant to be.

After a long career in advertising sales, including positions with ESPN/ABC cable networks and Google, I made the decision to “retire”—in other words, to stay home with my three children, and immerse myself in the many opportunities that presented themselves through the Downers Grove community.

By involving myself in various organizations, I had the chance to meet talented women through the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club. I coached soccer players on the field through the Downers Grove Park District, and taught students as a District 58 substitute. I also helped our local school through PTA officer positions, and joined a dedicated team on the Downers Grove Swim and Racquet Club board.

Timing is everything. After many discussions with Scott Jonlich, founder and publisher of Hinsdale Magazine, we determined that my previous experience in advertising

sales, coupled with my involvement and commitment to this town, presented an opportunity to launch the very first publication devoted to Downers Grove. This quarterly magazine will highlight our businesses, our people, our schools and more. Much like Downers Grove, the magazine will continue to evolve. Our goal is to bring our readers unique stories, and feature local, colorful personalities.

Beyond thanking our dedicated editorial staff and creative design team, a large thank-you is indebted to our advertising partners for this first issue and beyond. The success of Downers Grove Magazine relies heavily on these businesses that have joined us on this journey.

As you peruse the magazine, please mentally note our partners— please support these businesses that also call Downers Grove and surrounding areas their home.

Thanks in advance for your support. We look forward to continuing to capture the amazing spirit of this town in future issues.

Anne Healy Associate Publisher anne@hinsdalemag.com

Anne Healy is married to Tom Healy, with three children, Tommy (11), Jimmy (10) and Mary Katherine (8). Often you can find her hauling her three children to various events around town. Do you have any news you would like to share? We are always looking for great stories to feature. Please e-mail Anne Healy directly at anne@hinsdalemag.com.

A BANK THAT CAN OFFER EVERYTHING

We don’t think you should have to choose between great people and great technology. We’ve got it all.

As a true community bank, we offer an unmatched level of customer service. But, we also know that you don’t always need to talk to a person for every banking interaction. That’s why we’ve developed sophisticated technological tools that are quick, convenient, and easy. When you bank with us, you get it all: the best service when you need us and great technology when you don’t.

DOWNERS GROVE’S COMMUNITY BANK

1111 Warren Ave. | Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-968-4700 | www.downersgrovebank.com

Proud to be part of the family

Community Bank of Downers Grove is a branch of Hinsdale Bank & Trust Company. 1. Account Benefits. Online banking is required to access Mobile banking and Remote Deposit Capture. Internet/ Mobile connectivity is required. Deposits made through Mobile banking or Remote Deposit Capture are subject to deposit limits and funds are typically available by next business day. Deposit limits may change at any time. Third-party message and data rates may apply. Other restrictions apply. For more information go to: https:// www.hinsdalebank.com/personal/resources/online-mobile-banking/agreementand-disclosure.html. 2. Digital Wallet. Wintrust Community Bank Consumer and Business Debit Cards are eligible for Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Wintrust Community Bank ATM cards and HSA cards are not eligible. Certain age restrictions and other limitations may apply to digital wallets.

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Scott Jonlich

sjonlich@hinsdalemag.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Anne Healy Anne@hinsdalemag.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Mike Ellis

Julie Jonlich

Kerrie Kennedy

CREATIVE DEPARTMENT

Cheryl Chrzanowski

Dick Morton

Julia Sinogeikina

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Daniel Garcia

Marco Nunez

Marcello Rodarte

Carolina Menapace

Slav Polinski

ADVERTISING SALES

Larry Atseff

Renee Lawrence

marketing@HinsdaleMagazineGroup.com

9/7-8

The Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Celebrating 43 years, come see the high caliber of art showcased in downtown Downers Grove.

Downtown Downers Grove

9/7

DGPD BBQ Bolt

Join the Post-Race Picnic in the Park featuring BBQ, Beer, and Kids Activities.

McCollum Park in Downers Grove

9/13-14

Downers Grove Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest celebrates the approaching fall season, while raising money to support District 58 schools.

Downtown Downers Grove in Forest Parking Lot

9/26

Girls’ Day Out Downtown

Downers Grove

Grab your girlfriends and enjoy a fun day and/or night of shopping and dining Downtown Downers Grove

Downtown Downers Grove

9/28

DG Park District Harvest Fest

Enjoy live entertainment featuring Suburban Cowboys, DJ Coach Josh, and ARRA.

Fishel Park

9/29

Barkapalooza Dog Walk and Pet Expo

Bring your dog and then join the walkathon to help raise money for the homeless cats and dogs of the West Suburban Humane Society.

Lisle Community Park

10/5

Art Walk - Hosted by The Art Department

Meet local artists at several downtown Downers Grove business locations.

Downtown Downers Grove

10/20

Downtown Downers Grove Halloween Window Painting

Bring your paintbrushes and cleaning materials and paint the town.

Downtown Downers Grove

YES! Productions Presents

YES! Productions, a new community theater company, is preparing for its inaugural performance of “The Little Mermaid” on September 7 & 8 at Nazareth Academy in LaGrange Park, IL.

YES! Productions was founded by Kari Galassi, Hinsdale resident and leader of the recent effort to pass the referendum for Hinsdale High School District 86. Mrs. Galassi wanted to find ways to continue the spirit of community teamwork that sprang from the referendum effort across both the Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South communities earlier this year.

“The ‘YES in YES! Productions stands for Young Entertainers’ Studio but it’s also a nod to the YES effort for our high schools,” said Galassi. “Our cast and leadership is from the entire D86 community. Theater is such a fantastic experience for kids. It builds confidence and poise and there are so many kids who are passionate about being on stage. We chose The Little Mermaid not only because it’s a classic story; it also requires a large cast and with 60+ kids in our production, everyone has a chance to shine.”

YES! Productions has outstanding leadership that comes from both the Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South areas. For example, YES! Productions’ director, Grace Govostis, is an alumnae of Hinsdale South who returned last year to lead the acclaimed Hinsdale South theater program to the Illinois State Drama Competition.

Nightly rehearsals have been taking place at Pure Vibe Dance Center in Westmont and the team is also busy preparing sets and costumes. YES! Productions is also busy promoting the show and ticket sales are strong so far.

“We’d love everyone to come out and experience the kids’ talent and hard work,” said Galassi.

ON SEPTEMBER 7 & 8

The shows take place on September 7 (2pm and 7pm) and on September 8 (1pm and 6pm) and tickets can be purchased at https:// www.yesproductionsco.com/buy-tickets.

For more information, visit YES! Productions at https://www.yesproductionsco.com/buy-tickets

DR. KEVIN RUSSELL IS THE NEW SUPERINTENDENT OF DISTRICT 58 SCHOOLS.

District 58 welcomes superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

When you have seven children at home, it’s hard to imagine also having a job where you’re working with kids all day. But that’s exactly what Dr. Kevin Russell, newly appointed superintendent of District 58, does.

“I guess having seven kids is kind of my claim to fame,” Russell said. “My oldest is a sophomore in high school; then I have an eighth-grader, a sixth-grader, a fifth-grader, a fourth-grader, and the youngest is in kindergarten. So I have all my ‘kiddos’ in school. My wife is a middle-school mathematics teacher, so we have a busy but fun house.”

His other “kiddos” are the students of District 58, and he’s dedicated to helping them reach their highest potential.

“I don’t take my position for granted,” Russell said. “I feel like I won the lottery. We’re going to do great things for the students of District 58.”

A veteran teacher, Russell grew up in Woodridge, and graduated from Downers Grove North. After becoming a teacher, Russell was invited to student-teach at O’Neill Middle School by Rick Russell (no relation), former principal of Thomas Jefferson Junior High School.

“He remembered me as a student at Jefferson,” Russell said. “He was something of a teaching legend.”

Russell not only student-taught there, but when Rick Russell put in his retirement notice shortly after, Kevin Russell was able to take over his job, teaching at O’Neill for seven years.

“I absolutely loved it,” Russell said of his time there. “I coached several sports and sponsored several clubs, and got a chance to work with so many different kids at so many levels.”

Russell, who lives in nearby Lisle with his family, was appointed superintendent of District 58 in April, but didn’t officially take over until July 1, the start of the new fiscal year.

“That allowed me so many opportunities to transition, meet with key people, build relationships and connect with former colleagues,” he said. “It was really neat to already know a lot of people.”

In fact, Russell said his number one priority is to build strong relationships with staff, students and the community of District 58.

“We’re all stakeholders,” he said.

His other goals include continuing to strengthen the district’s curriculum, and engaging with the community about the district’s facilities.

“A lot of our facilities are well-maintained, but they are aging—some have been around for 100 years,” Russell said. “I want to make sure we’re setting our kids up for success by providing the right learning environment for the 21st century.”

According to Russell, education is changing rapidly because of technology and new accountability measures, which pose a challenge that all educators face in 2019. But he has no doubt the district is up to the challenge.

“The strength of District 58 is its capital,” he says. “We have unbelievable students, teachers, support staff and families. That’s why we’re one of the leading districts in the state and beyond.”

Russell’s enthusiasm for his new job is palpable.

“I am beyond excited,” he said. “This is a community that’s given so much to me personally. They will get 1,000 [percent] commitment from me. We’re going to do great things for the students of District 58.” ■

Promoting historic preservation in Downers Grove

BY KERRIE KENNEDY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

When Amy Gassen decided to move to Downers Grove with her husband, getting involved with the local historical society wasn’t necessarily at the top of her list—it wasn’t even on her list at all.

But some things are just meant to be. Gassen and her husband, who was born and raised in Downers Grove, knew they wanted to live in a neighborhood where they could walk to the train. After looking at their budget, the couple, both architects, quickly realized that only older homes fit in their budget. They settled on an American Four Square, circa 1800s. Soon after they moved in, Gassen became aware of an outcry from local residents to save a Queen Anne home on Maple Street, known as the Edwards House, scheduled to be torn down.

“I decided to get involved in the efforts to keep the house,” she said. “And that’s how I got involved with the historical society.”

While the house did eventually get torn down, the incident galvanized the mayor and village council to promote historic preservation in Downers Grove. Gassen was asked to serve on a committee to make recommendations on changing the ordinance so it would be easier for Downers Grove residents to landmark their own homes.

“While I was on that committee, I really gained a passion and awareness for the homes in our town,” she said. “So I said to my husband, ‘There’s no reason we can’t landmark our house. Let’s set an example.’”

Gassen’s house was the first to get landmarked after the new ordinance was approved in 2016, and her research during the process led her to develop an interest in the American Four Square.

“It’s a great house [for raising] a family,”

she said. “The floor plan is efficient without a lot of wasted space, and it’s very versatile. It’s easy to attach an addition to the back or the top.”

Gassen’s interest in the American Four Square went beyond her own home.

“We’d take long walks with the kids, and started to notice all the American Four Square homes in downtown Downers Grove,” she said. “We documented all we found, took pictures, wrote down the addresses and put it all on a map.”

Gassen discovered that there were 27 such homes that could be landmarked in Downers Grove.

“Landmark status is really the best way to protect the home from demolition, and it’s really not a big deal to do,” she said. “The official designation gets recorded at the county, and builders have to follow the ordinance, which the village administers.”

During one of their walks, Gassen and her husband came across a home that seemed to have the same exact layout as theirs. So they grabbed a copy of their floor-plan, and knocked on the owner’s door.

“Inside, it was the same house, same exact layout,” she said. “It looks like it was probably built by the same person.”

Who that was, Gassen doesn’t know, but by encouraging other Downers Grove residents to research the history of their own homes, the Downers Grove Historical Society will start to accumulate and share more information, and perhaps help find missing pieces to puzzles.

“The historical society is here to educate the community,” Gassen said.

Through a series of so-called fortunate events, Gassen has managed to help shape the community where she lives— preserving, documenting and honoring its history, and ultimately, its unique character. ■

Watts of Love Lighting the Way

In February 2013, Downers Grove resident Kevin Kuster found himself in a situation he never would have imagined. He was in the Philippines with his sister, Nancy Economou, and they were stuck in customs with more than 1,000 solar lights. Kuster, who at the time worked as a photo editor for Playboy magazine, had never traveled to the Philippines before, much less with lights instead of luggage.

But he was on a mission. Several years prior, his sister had been in the Philippines with her husband, and was invited to go help feed the poor. While there, she was introduced to a young girl who had been horrifically burned by kerosene, and was being “treated” with toothpaste on her face. Sadly, this girl was just a statistic, and in some ways, she was lucky to be alive. The burning of kerosene lamps leads to the death of more than 1.5 million people every year, a by-product of the fact that more than 1.4 billion people globally live without

reliable access to electricity. Women and children largely bear the brunt of this “energy poverty.”

Economou, a stay-at-home mom with five young boys at home, decided she was going to do something about this problem. She got in touch with her friend Fr. Fernando Suarez, who had recently been transferred to a remote island in the Philippines with no electricity. He suggested that solar lights could provide a viable solution to kerosene light, which is not only dangerous, but three to four times more expensive than electric light.

So Economou and Kuster went to work, raising enough money to purchase and distribute 1,000 solar lights. Then they got on a plane to llin Island in the Philippines.

“We had no idea what we were doing—literally no clue,” Kuster said.

And that was made perfectly clear to them as soon as they landed, and none of their lights could get out of customs.

But the brother and sister duo still had three lights left in their carry-on luggage, so they went to the priest and asked him to help them find the three people who were most in need of the lights. One was Emily, a mother of seven children, who just one day after receiving her solar light, had carved 1,000 bamboo skewers, which she planned to sell at the local market to help feed her family. Overnight, the light allowed her to become an entrepreneur.

“It made us realize the power of light,” Kuster said. “And that’s really how Watts of Love was born.”

According to the World Bank, giving someone access to light and electricity is one of the fastest ways out of poverty, since people who rely on kerosene for light spend at least

NANCY ECONOMOU AND KEVIN KUSTER, OF DOWNERS GROVE, FOUNDERS OF WATTS OF LOVE.

30 percent of their income on it. But it’s more than just economics, Kuster said.

“We learned about the impact of light and electricity,” he said. “We saw how utterly transformative it is. For example, a child who has access to light increases his or her study time by up to 78 percent. The benefits of lights are incredible.”

Eventually, Kuster and his sister were able to get their lights out of customs, and they flew

back to the Philippines to distribute them. To date, through their non-profit Watts of Love, they have distributed more than 30,000 lights worldwide, and that number continues to grow every day.

encountered on llin Island can be spread to all the world’s impoverished regions.”

“Seven years into this, it has been an incredible journey,” Kuster said. “Light translates to life in developing countries, and the success we

For more information about Watts of Love, its fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, corporate giving opportunities or to make a donation, visit wattsoflove.org. ■

“Light translates to life in developing countries, and the success we encountered on llin Island can be spread to the world’s impoverished regions.”

—KEVIN KUSTER

Catching up with Sisters

Meet longtime Downers Grove residents Leigh Buehler and April Katsafanas

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

Downers Grove Roots. [Leigh]

We were born and raised in Downers Grove. We’ve been in the area since the 1950s.

Our parents later moved to unincorporated Naperville, but we were still in the Downers Grove school system. I went to Downers Grove North where our parents graduated as well. We were members of First Baptist Church in Downers Grove and did most of our activities in Downers Grove.

Our house. [April] In 1987, our parents bought the home in downtown Downers Grove where I currently reside. Our mom passed away in 2013, and our dad moved out of the house, offering to sell it to me and my family. I wasn’t sure—the house, which was built in 1940, needed a lot of work. But my husband said to me, ‘now that your sister lives in the neighborhood, are you going to be okay driving by and seeing another family’s kids playing in the front yard’? That was it. We bought the house in 2015.

A few doors down. [Leigh] My house is in Denburn Woods. It’s our family’s second

house in Downers Grove, and it’s just 8 houses down from April’s house. Our kids go to school together, which is so cool.

Kid central. [April] Our dad was always involved with the homeowners association here and because of that, we got to know a lot of the neighbors. I’ve really noticed the past five years or so there’s been a large turnover. A lot of folks of certain generation have moved away, so we’re getting a lot of younger families. When I was in 7th grade, there were two or three other kids my age at our annual block party. Now, the block party is chalkful of kids!

Where everybody knows your name. [Leigh] I’ve noticed a trend where a lot of the families that were here in the 80s, their now adult kids have moved back into the neighborhood, just like April and I both did. It’s great being back amongst people I have known forever. I love going out and walking around and always running into someone I know.

Summertime, summertime. [April] I love summertime here—the car shows and the sidewalk sales, farmers markets and Tuesdays in the Park. There’s always something

happening here. There are so many options for adults and children.

Coming home. [Leigh] I love the trees and the wildlife and the natural setting where I am in Denburn Woods. April and I had both lived in the city before we moved back to Downers Grove, and were both initially concerned about the slower pace. But Downers Grove has so much to offer socially, and we’re now taking our kids to the same places our mom took us to. It’s been a real coming home for us both! ■

If you know a Downers Grove resident who should be featured on this page, email anne@hinsdalemag.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

Green with Envy

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

PHOTOGRAPH BY LIFE AND LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

Interior designer Chad Esslinger injects a bit of nature into a Downers Grove kitchen

When interior designer Chad Esslinger, owner of Chad Esslinger

Design, was approached by a Downers Grove homeowner to rescue her kitchen from the 1990s, he knew immediately what was needed. “The kitchen was pretty small and cramped and outdated as far as finishes go—a lot of brown woods, beiges and dark counter-tops,” Esslinger recalls. “It was also closed off from the rest of the house and not really functional.” The goal? To lighten, brighten, update, and create a flow that worked for this busy family of five.

Located in a Georgian style home on a col-de-sac in the north part of Downers Grove, the scope of the project also included a powder room update and a redo on the front entryway staircase. But Esslinger set his sights on the kitchen first, chiefly its cabinets. “The cabinets were in really good shape and top quality

cabinets, so I didn’t want to have to rip them out,” he says. Like all good designers, Esslinger knows that paint can transform just about anything, and these dark outdated cabinets were no exception. The homeowner felt white would be too boring, so Esslinger started to experiment with grays, until he remembered the homeowner mentioned that she liked the color green. While green may not be the first color that comes to mind when painting cabinetry, Esslinger, who’s appeared on HGTV’s House Hunters Renovation, decided to give it a whirl.

“Initially we looked at lighter grayer greens, but then decided to go a little bolder, live with it throughout the day and see how it felt,” he recalls. “Very quickly we realized that there was no other choice than Rainy Afternoon, a Benjamin Moore color that feels new and trendy but also classic. It’s a color that’s found in nature, and it went well with the knotted wood finishes we had

planned to incorporate.”

The unique color allowed Esslinger to integrate some new cabinetry as well. “Since the new cabinets were painted the same color, it all worked together,” he says. After removing the kitchen table (“it didn’t make sense to have a kitchen table and an island within a few feet of each other,” he says), Esslinger used the found space to incorporate pantry storage, as well as a microwave and coffee station. That helped to make up for the wall of cabinets they decided to remove next to the range and hood. “It just felt too cramped,” he says. In their place, Esslinger put up floating rustic wood shelves set off by brass sconce lights from Restoration Hardware. “I’m always a big fan of opening things up and putting in shelving to showcase décor,” he says. “It was a nice way to open up the space, and it gave us the opportunity to create a custom built hood.” ■

PHOTOGRAPH BY PICTURE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHY

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

DENTAL PROFILES

featuring

ESPLANADE DENTAL CARE

2001 Butterfield Rd Suite 140 Downers Grove, IL 60515 630.493.0914

www.esplanade-dental.com

GROVE DENTAL 6800 Main St., 3rd Floor Downers Grove, IL 630.969.5350

www.grovedental.com

ORAL HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

2033 Ogden Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515 630-963-6750

OralHealthCareProfessionals.com

SHINE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 950 Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-743-6700

www.shinekidsdg.com

Grove Dental Associates

Beautiful and Radiant Smiles for Over 50 Years

For over 50 years, families in the Western Suburbs have trusted their smiles to Grove Dental. Grove Dental is proud to serve multigenerational families with extraordinary dental care tailored to their unique dental needs in a compassionate and state-of-theart environment. Grove Dental is the first-of-its-kind in the area to offer patients a wide variety of multi-specialty dental services conveniently located all under one roof. We are your family’s one-stop dental office!

World-Class and Award-Winning Dental Care

Over the years, Grove Dental has been the proud recipient of numerous awards for their outstanding commitment to providing top-quality dental care to families in the community. Such accolades include Readers’ Choice Best Dentist in Chicago’s Western Suburbs, Top-Rated Dentists in DuPage by Chicago’s Consumers’ Checkbook, and most recently, six dentists practicing at Grove Dental were named Top Dentist by topDentists, LLC and featured in Chicago Magazine.

Committed to the Community

Grove Dental is proud to call this vibrant community their home. In fact, several of our dentists reside in the Downers Grove area, so we understand and value the sense of community and are fully committed to supporting local causes. Grove Dental is proud to sponsor and donate their time and talents to collect food and warm coats for the needy as well as provide free dental care to our military heroes on Veteran’s Day.

Caring for Your Family’s Smile- From the First Tooth to the Golden Years!

With more than 30 dentists and specialists, Grove Dental offers experienced dental care at any stage of life. Whether it’s an infant’s first dental visit, preteen getting braces, or an adult looking to transform their smile; Grove Dental is ready to partner with you and your family on your oral health journey. For your convenience, we offer simultaneous family appointments to save you extra time.

Standing from left to right: Michael P. Cunningham, DDS, MS (periodontist), Eric J. Kunath, DDS (endodontist), Kevin T. Moss, DMD, FAGD (general dentist), Samuel B. Allen, DDS, MSD (orthodontist), and Mark D. Cabana, DDS (pediatric dentist). Seated from left to right: Norma H. Ericson, DDS (general dentist), Gregory M. Shubat, DDS (general dentist), and Diana K. Lee, DDS (pediatric dentist). Not pictured: Michael J. Brammeier, DDS (general dentist), Gregory M. Freebeck, DDS (general dentist), Samar Islam, DDS (general dentist), David H. Smith, DMD (oral surgeon), and Chad R. Wiersema, DDS (endodontist).

Shine Pediatric Dentistry

950 Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-743-6700

www.shinekidsdg.com

Shine Pediatric Dentistry

Be Your Brightest Self

Shine Pediatric Dentistry – Opening Fall 2019

I have been practicing dentistry for over 14 years, serving various communities throughout the Chicagoland area. Now I am excited to serve the community that my family lives in! While I grew up in Central Illinois, my husband, Brent Widler grew up in Downers Grove. Our elementary aged children, Lucas and Zack will be 4th generation Trojan’s at Downers Grove North! We look forward to being active in the community and helping make children’s oral and overall health the best and brightest they can be.

Why Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric Dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses on children from birth to teenage years, including children with special health care needs. After practicing general dentistry for three years, I found that I loved working with kids the most. I love when a positive experience can change a child’s perspective of “not liking the dentist.” I get such joy and fulfillment when a patient arrives fearful and nervous, and leaves giving high fives and smiling, it is the best feeling ever!

As a board-certified Pediatric Dentist through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry it’s important to me to stay up-to-date with all of the latest techniques available. I have advanced training to provide tooth colored crowns as well as newer treatments that may help prevent cavities from advancing.

Why Shine Pediatric Dentistry?

We want to provide you and your child a refreshing, personalized dental experience that supports each of us in becoming our “brightest” selves. We are committed to making your child feel cared for, respected, and part of the team that helps keep them happy and healthy. We value educating patients on the importance of oral health, how to take care of their teeth, and want everyone to take pride in their smile! And should your child ever have a challenging experience, we want to be the team that helps overcome it!

Shine With Us

Shine Pediatric Dentistry will be open this fall at 950 Ogden Ave in Downers Grove. We would love the opportunity to meet you and your little ones! Please check out our website: shinekidsdg.com, follow us on Facebook @shinepediatricdentistry or on Instagram @shinekidsdg to see our progress.

Cover picture: Lynse J Briney, DDS, MS.

“ My mom attended some of the programs, and that really helped shape my passion for Wellness House, seeing it first-hand. A year and a half ago, we lost my father, so I really know what it’s like to bring people through loss and grief.

—LISA KOLAVENNU

THE PATH TO WELLNESS

DOWNERS GROVE RESIDENT LISA KOLAVENNU TAKES THE REINS AT WELLNESS HOUSE

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

If you’re familiar with the work that Wellness House does, that probably means your life has been affected by cancer—either your own health crisis or a loved one’s. The latter was the case for Downers Grove resident Lisa Kolavennu, whose father had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma about 12 years ago. As it happens, Kolavennu had just started working as director of programs for Wellness House, so she was well aware of what the organization had to offer.

“My mom attended some of the programs, and that really helped shape my passion for Wellness House, seeing it first-hand,” she said. “A year and a half ago, we lost my father, so I really know what it’s like to bring people through loss and grief.”

Fittingly, this past July, Kolavennu was named executive director of Wellness House, where she’s worked over the last decade-plus, developing a deep dedication to its mission: to better the lives of people living with cancer and the people close to them.

“Today, we offer a variety of programs and services—exercise classes, nutrition seminars, support groups and more—that complement the treatment from your doctors and specialists,” Kolavennu said. “It’s a whole-person approach to healing, and it’s

LISA KOLAVENNU, RIGHT, IS SUCCEEDING JEANNIE CELLA AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF WELLNESS HOUSE

MARCELLO

offered at no cost to you.”

Last year, more than 250 Downers Grove residents used Wellness House programs, said Kolavennu, who is an active member of the community, serving in the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club (a financial supporter of Wellness House for many years), and volunteering at her children’s District 58 schools, both in the classroom and with the PTA.

But as the saying goes, if you want to get something done, ask a busy person. And Kolavennu, a master juggler, is not only focused on making sure all the Wellness House programs are operating smoothly, she’s keeping an eye on the big picture of the organization.—And that means focusing on philanthropy.

“Wellness House is open six days a week, from 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., as well as Saturday mornings,” Kolavennu said. “All of our staff are paid, licensed, credentialed experts in their field—from cancer-exercise specialists to dietitians, psychologists [and] massage therapists. Being able to offer all of this free of

charge is really thanks to the generosity of the people, families and corporations in our community.”

By offering important, life-sustaining, complimentary services to not only those diagnosed with cancer, but to family members, caregivers and close friends, Wellness House helps combat what she calls the “financial toxicity of cancer”— yet another form of stress that cancer patients and their loved ones deal with in the form of medical bills.

Wellness House is also a leader in an emerging field called psychosocial oncology.

“It’s a broad category that encompasses the psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing of patients and their loved ones, which is critical for health,” Kolavennu said. “For example, support groups, counseling and stress management programs address emotional needs, and exercise and nutrition programs are dedicated to helping the physical side of it. We also have a number of programs tailored to the unique needs of children.

Our role is to understand and implement what research tells us is effective.”

And one of the things they do know, Kolavennu said, is that the psychological stress, anxiety or depression that people experience after being diagnosed with cancer can have a profound impact on their ability to continue and manage treatment.

“For some people, sitting down with a therapist is best; others find that connecting in a support group is hopeful and powerful,” she said. “Whatever works best for the individual, we’re happy to be able to provide another layer of support.”

You can support Wellness House by attending the Wellness House Ball on Oct. 5 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago, shopping at its resale shop in Hinsdale (The Courtyard), or donating directly on its Web site. In addition, individuals living with cancer and their loved ones are invited to attend a Body Mind Fest on Sept. 7 for free massages, yoga, meditation classes and more. For more information, go to wellnesshouse.org. ■

Today, we offer a variety of programs and services—exercise classes, nutrition seminars, support groups and more—that complement the treatment from your doctors and specialists.”

—LISA KOLAVENNU

HAMILTON IN THE PARK

Participants of all ages took part in “Hamiltunes,” a sing-along performance of Hamilton on Aug. 4 at Fishel Park.

Hamilton: An American Musical is a sungand-rapped through musical about the life of Gen. Alexander Hamilton, with music, lyrics and book by Lin-Manuel Miranda, inspired by the 2004 biography Alexander Hamilton by historian Ron Chernow.

The audience enjoyed over two hours of singing from fellow community members, with a drawing for two tickets to the Hamilton Exhibition in Chicago to finish out the afternoon.

Hamiltunes was presented by the Downers Grove Public Library.

BEN’S MEMORIAL MILE

Community members gathered for Ben’s Memorial Mile, a community festival and running gala that honors the life of Ben Silver, in June at Downers Grove North (DGN) High School.

Ben was a 2011 DGN alum who lost his life to schizophrenia in 2015. Ben’s Memorial Mile occurs every June, and encompasses races for all ages and abilities, in addition to other fun activities for the entire family.

All funds raised from the event are given to mental-health aid, research and suicide prevention.

YMCA GOLF OUTING

Local business owners and supporters of the Indian Boundary YMCA gathered for the annual On Course for a Cause golf outing on July 15.

This year, the YMCA raised more than $35,000 to help more children and families access programs built on caring, honesty, responsibility and respect.

Through its shared mission, Indian Boundary YMCA welcomes more than 11,000 members each year.

Last year, the organization provided financial assistance to 450 families in Downers Grove and surrounding communities.

The team at Cadence Kitchen & Co are proud to bring you Downers Grove’s next culinary hot spot. The Foxtail is a brunch, lunch, and dinner spot on the corner of Maple and Main. It is slotted to open at the beginning of 2020. Bringing the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with a California spin, the Foxtail will feature brunch everyday, salads, sandwiches, seafood and steaks. With a large array of small plates (and a few mains), the constantly changing menu will take your taste buds on a tour of the Mediterranean sea. Our seasonal cocktail program will forever showcase the bounties of local herbs, fruits, spirits, and suppliers. Looking forward to having you as our guest soon!

1. L-R Peter Scannell, Wally Roach, Jeff Lindbloom, Brad Smith 2. Todd Davies, Jason Guerin

DOWNERS GROVE PARK DISTRICT CONCERT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SLAV POLINKSKI

The Downers Grove Park District welcomed more than 15,000 visitors to its 2019 summer concert series.

The free, live concerts were held on Tuesday evenings from May 28 to Aug. 20 at Veterans Memorial Pavilion in Fishel Park.

Visitors of all ages enjoyed a wide variety of music genres ranging from oldies to pop hits, and from country to rock-n-roll. Each week featured different food vendors, including Fancy Fajita, City Barbecue, Sarpino’s Pizzeria, Toasty Cheese, Robinson’s Ribs, Courageous Cupcakes, Well’s Street Popcorn and Everyday’s A Sundae. Wine and beer were also available for purchase.

This year’s presenting sponsor was CSC Steil Dermatology. Additional sponsors included Band & Wire Orthodontics, Bank Financial, BMO Harris Bank, Community Bank of Downers Grove, Cut Above Landscaping, the Downers Grove Public Library and Maple & Main.

DOWNTOWN DOWNERS GROVE MARKET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SLAV POLINKSKI

Since the mid-1990s, the Indian Boundary YMCA has jointly sponsored the Downtown Downers Grove Market with the Village of Downers Grove.

A group of Indian Boundary YMCA volunteers work each year to recruit vendors, staff the market and man the YMCA information booth. Proceeds from booth sales help the YMCA to enhance existing programs, and to offer financial assistance to children and families to participate in YMCA programs.

Last year, more than 3,300 people visited the market during peak weeks.

ROTARY GROVE FEST

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL GARCIA

The Rotary Club of Downers Grove thanks the legions of sponsors, volunteers and festival attendees for embracing and supporting the tenth annual Rotary Grove Fest this past June.

Because of the many generous sponsorships and a growing attendance, the profits generated from this event have helped to fund scholarships, grants and non-profit organizations locally, regionally and internationally.

This year, more than 500 volunteers participated in the event, 33 non-profit organizations will receive a stipend from the Rotary Club for providing volunteers, and 18 more had the opportunity to interact with patrons at Rotary Grove Fest.

Rotary Grove Fest will be held from June 25 to 28 in 2020.

FRIDAY NIGHT CAR SHOW

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SLAV POLINKSKI

Every Friday night the streets of downtown Downers Grove became lined with Classic Cars for everyone to enjoy and sidewalks filled with visitors of all ages. Visitors to the show, enjoyed our boutiques and restaurants as well as took in the sounds of live entertainment at the Main Street Train Station with a different band each week. The 27th Annual Downtown Downers Grove Summer Nights Classic Car Show came to a close for the season, August 30, 2019. The show traditionally runs every Friday, 6-9pm, from Memorial Day to Labor Day (except for the Friday of Rotary GroveFest).

Hundreds of local residents attended a public meeting hosted by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) regarding a construction permit that would allow Sterigenics to reopen one of its two local facilities at Ashton Place in Willowbrook on Aug. 1.

The IEPA had issued a seal order to force the embattled company to cease operations in Willowbrook on Feb. 15, following public outcry against increased levels of ethylene oxide, believed to be a carcinogenic substance, said to be emanating from its facilities.

But the state and Sterigenics have been negotiating a consent order that would essentially nullify the seal order, and thus allow the company to resume operations.

This consent order could be approved as soon as Sept. 6, when it comes before DuPage County Circuit Court judge Paul Fullerton.

Meanwhile, the Illinois General Assembly and Gov. J.B. Pritzker approved a law, dubbed the “Matt Haller act,” on June 21, which prohibits the renewal of any permits for facilities that violate federal or state standards for ethylene oxide emissions.

In addition, the Haller act prevents new medical sterilization facilities that emit ethylene oxide from opening within ten miles of a school or park in counties with a population exceeding 50,000, and within 15 miles of counties with fewer than 50,000 people.

Local legislators said they believe the law is the strictest in the nation with regard to ethylene oxide gas.

Willowbrook mayor Frank Trilla said he thought the Haller act would be sufficient to permanently remove Sterigenics from the community, but was disappointed to find that state officials and the company had been negotiating a construction permit and consent order in the meantime.

SPECIAL COMMUNITY REPORT

STERIGENICS PUBLIC FORUM

BY: MIKE ELLIS

The construction permit application, which was the subject of the IEPA public forum on Aug. 1, was submitted by Sterigenics on June 24, just three days after the Haller act was signed into law.

Last month, Sterigenics released the following statement from president Philip Macnabb.

“We are pleased to have reached this agreement, which creates a path for our Willowbrook facility to resume its safe operation, and includes no finding of wrongdoing on the company’s part nor the imposition of any financial penalties. The state government has gone to great lengths to set new standards for the protection of the public that are more stringent than any other location in the country. While our Willowbrook operations have consistently complied with and outperformed the state’s requirements, we have repeatedly stated our support for evolving regulations and our commitment to enhancing our operations in the interest of protecting public

health. We remain committed to abiding by the new regulations established by the state. By resolving this matter, we are one major step closer to resuming the critical work of sterilizing vital medical products and devices in Willowbrook for patients in Illinois and beyond.”

Prior to the forum, protestors from the community action group “Stop Sterigenics” conducted a demonstration in the parking lot outside of Ashton Place.

Leaders called for the firing of IEPA director John J. Kim, and exhorted residents to contact Pritzker, who ran on an anti-Sterigenics platform last fall.

Protestors carried signs conveying their desire for the company to leave the community, while chanting “shut them down” repeatedly.

Speaking to demonstrators, DuPage County Board member Julie Renehan branded Sterigenics “an environmental terrorist group.”

Trilla addressed the protesters, and said the Village of Willowbrook “appreciates your support.”

“It’s been 11 months, and it’s been a hell of a journey,” he said. “I appreciate you all being with us.”

He announced that before the end of August, the village expected to introduce a municipal ban on ethylene oxide—a step that has already been taken by the neighboring City of Darien.

“We will dare them to come and take us to court,” Trilla said.

Inside Ashton Place, the IEPA conducted a forum that invited public comment concerning the construction permit application.

Brad Frost, community relations coordinator for the IEPA, briefly presented on the application to provide a context for the audience.

The application was made available for public view on July 15, and the public

comment period concerning it closed on Aug. 15.

Final action on said application must be taken by Sept. 22, or the permit will issue by default.

Frost covered some of the provisions of the Haller act that Sterigenics must satisfy, including a limit on ethylene oxide usage.

“The improvements are the capture of all emissions—100 percent capture—, increasing controlled emissions to 99.9 on all emissions,” he said. “Previously, the federal standard required emissions of 99 percent only on the chamber and the air emission room.”

Frost said the IEPA’s models show that the public risk to resumed ethylene oxide emissions “will approach the one in 1 million mark.”

His presentation, however, did not satisfy the elected officials who began the public comment portion of the forum with impassioned denunciations of the application.

Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, said the IEPA has “forgotten [its] core mission.”

“We once again come together as a community under trying circumstances,” Durkin said. “We thought the nightmare we all have been living through was finally over, but unfortunately, this fight continues.”

Durkin said the Haller act had bipartisan support, and he thought it possessed “the tools needed to keep a corporate polluter like Sterigenics closed for good.”

“While the bill was being negotiated, Sterigenics and the EPA were working on a permit,” he said. ... “Instead of working to protect us, it seems they are working quickly to allow Sterigenics to open its doors, and start polluting again.”

Durkin called the permit a “farce,” and said the monitoring system being proposed is “untested” and “not reliable.”

“I don’t want them back here anymore,” he said. ... “I’m a pro-business Republican, but the fact is, I don’t defend this type of work.”

In a separate comment to Downers Grove Magazine, state Sen. John Curran, R-Woodridge, said Sterigenics “should not be allowed to reopen.”

“Ethylene oxide is a known carcinogen, and should not be released into

Protesters from Stop Sterigenics led a demonstration outside of Ashton Place in Willowbrook on Aug. 1.

communities,” Curran said. “Banning the emission of this deadly toxin will promote a cleaner, safer environment. The medical supply community and area hospitals need to move past using this cancercausing gas, and further develop the alternative sterilizing processes that already exist.”

Burr Ridge mayor Gary Grasso, a candidate for Illinois AttorneyGeneral in 2018, exhorted the IEPA to protect its citizens.

“You are the environmental protection agency,” Grasso said. “Please protect us.”

Grasso said the Village of Burr Ridge opposes any proposed construction permit that would allow Sterigenics to reopen, as it has been proved that its ethylene oxide

emissions have harmed its constituents in the past.

“Rather than entertaining applications

construction permit.”

“How can you let them build a facility before they have any certifications from their suppliers?” he said. ...

“Hold their feet to the fire, and make them come up with the supplier certifications first.”

Grasso said he reached out to contacts at the DuPage County Board of Health, who produced alternatives that the federal EPA, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Illinois Medical Society have proposed for the sterilization of medical equipment instead of ethylene oxide.

for the issuance of a permit to reopen, you should fine them millions of dollars, and make them establish a healthcare fund for the many who are ill,” he said.

Grasso contended that the permit does not comply with subsection G of the Haller act, which is “a precondition to asking for a

These substances include hydrogen peroxide gas plasma systems, hydrogen gas acid systems and steam for devices resistant to heat and moisture.

“We don’t want this gas in our community,” Grasso said. “You must understand people live here.” ■

"We once again come together as a community under trying circumstances. We thought the nightmare we all have been living through was finally over, but unfortunately, this fight continues."

—REP. JIM DURKIN, R-WESTERN SPRINGS

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DIVING IN

Diveheart executive director Tinamarie Hernandez talks about giving back

BY JANIS VON KAENEL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL GARCIA

She describes herself as the person you don’t think of when great things happen, but to others, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Tinamarie Hernandez, executive director of Downers Grove’s Diveheart and full-time consultant for Accenture, does so much more than she realizes, and is someone to be admired. Hernandez said she’s “never the fireman rescuing the baby from the burning house, but the person who made sure he had his equipment at the ready, and the training he needed to get the job done.” That statement in itself is one modest cape-wearing superhero.

Growing up in the western suburbs, Hernandez graduated from Northern Illinois University in De Kalb, and then proceeded to the University of Denver for graduate school. She acquired a job at Accenture in 1997 as a consultant which enabled her love of learning and travel. Hernandez has always been someone to keep herself busy with second jobs, photography, diving, quilting and volunteer work, immersing herself as a Sunday school teacher, being active in her children’s PTA and even the Special Olympics.

She got involved as a volunteer at Diveheart, an organization that builds confidence, independence and self-esteem in children, adults and veterans with disabilities through scuba-diving, scuba-therapy and related activities, in 2011 and jumped in with both feet, developing into her current role as executive director.

“At the time I started volunteering and then working for Diveheart, I was at a point in my professional life where I was questioning my value and the skills I had developed,” Hernandez said. “As it does for so many people, Diveheart has given me a purpose, and a way to share my skills and passions to help people.”

It’s not just a job for Hernandez, but a whole other family of people to learn from and enjoy.

“I’ve learned a lot from [volunteering] at Diveheart, and I

try and bring what I’ve learned into my life,” she said. “Our adaptive divers have taught me appreciation of the healthy body and mind that I enjoy today and which may not be with me tomorrow.”

The donors and volunteers have given Hernandez numerous moments of gratitude for their generosity of time, talent and spirit.

“It’s easier for me to live in the moment, appreciate what is going on around me and not over worry about tomorrow,” she said.

Hernandez is also a goal-setter.

“When my son was around six, I decided that I would take him to all 50 states,” she said. “We just visited our 49th last January.”

Before she turned 40, Hernandez decided to take on a big task and train to complete a marathon. Her current goal is to visit all seven continents before she turns 50 in two years, and she’ll be visiting her fifth continent this summer in Africa.

Who inspires someone as motivated as Hernandez? Besides people in general, “Jim Elliott, founder and president of Diveheart, taught me that everyone has something to give,” she said. “Sometimes they just need a chance to give it.”

As a lover of history and reading about people who have achieved amazing things in their lives, Hernandez said she gets inspired by the potential everyone has, and by the people who are able to realize some of that potential in their lives.

“The resilience of people is amazing, and sometimes a person needs a little help to remind them that they may be down, but they are not out, and there is still reason to be hopeful and happy,” she said.

Hernandez is a true believer that Diveheart, through its donors, programs and volunteers, helps people remember they are more than someone who needs a little help.

“They are amazing and all they need to do is imagine the possibilities.” ■

Tinamarie Hernandez

Family Ties

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

From an elegant home stewarded by the same family for decades, a modern turn-key home with all the bells and whistles and a perfect starter home walking distance to school, Downers Grove offers the right home for every family.

English Cottage.

This one is meticulously maintained, modernized, and remodeled by the same family for more than 4 decades, this storybook English Cottage beauty is located on two parcels totaling 3/4 of an acre in the Northwest section of Downers Grove, near the Metra BNSF, Main Street, and the Belmont Train Station. The elegant home and its expansive landscaped grounds have been featured in magazines and newspapers, testament to its timeless, elegant appeal. A true family gem thought to be designed by architect R. Harold Zook, the home features an outdoor fireplace, a stunning sun porch, an expansive family room with rustic wood ceiling that opens into the kitchen, and a spa-like master suite with two walk-in closets and a dressing room with an espresso bar.

Modern Family.

From its prime, walk-to-everything location (train, town, schools, parks), to its impeccable craftsmanship and high end finishes, this expansive modern residence checks off every box on your wish list. Island kitchen with quartz counter-tops, farmhouse, sink, built-in sub-zero and herringbone backsplash? Check. Butler’s pantry with wine cooler? Check. Family room with walkout to stunning screen porch? Check. Mudroom with built ins off the garage? Check. First floor office with built-in bookcases? Check. Master suite with fireplace, walk-in closet and luxurious bath? Check. Second floor laundry? Check. Five full bedrooms? Check. Finished basement with theater room? Check. Covered front porch? Check. Three-car garage? Check. Large fenced yard with paver patio and basketball pad? Check. Perfect family home? Check!

4822 Northcott in Downers Grove, Koenig Rubloff Realty Group, $949,500

Classic Two-Story.

When looking for a home with exceptional value, usually you’re going to have to make some compromises— the location isn’t exactly what you were hoping for, the kitchen needs work, the roof needs repairs, the layout isn’t open enough. But this affordable family home, located in the Hillcrest neighborhood and walking distance to Hillcrest Elementary and South High School, offers virtually everything you need. From its new roof to its updated kitchen with white cabinets, granite counter-tops and Maytag appliances, large room sizes and hardwood floors, family room with brick fireplace and built-in bookcases, full basement with exterior access, and master suite with private bath and walk-in closet, there’s little to want or need. The kids will enjoy being able to walk to school, parents will appreciate the commuter bus to the train and the family dog will love the large yard and dog run. ■

1400 62nd St. in Downers Grove, ReMax Enterprises, $419,900

4731 Saratoga in Downers Grove, Michels Realtors, $1.1 million.

Say “I do”

Planning a wedding? Downers Grove Magazine has you covered, with all the latest trends and fabulous styles designed to make your upcoming nuptials unforgettable.

BY KERRIE KENNEDY

The Princess Bride. Thank Meghan Markle for the resurgence of clean, minimal and elegant silhouettes. Mikado bridal ball gown from the Moonlight Collection, featuring a bateau neckline and full fairytale-like chapel gown. Price upon request at Fancia Bridal in Downers Grove, fanciabridal. com

Diamonds Are Forever.

Razny’s Forever by Razny engagement ring collection offers a variety of current styles and trends, from the Art Deco-inspired Holly (center cushion-cut diamond with baguettes), the classic Meghan (round diamond with round side-stones), or the beautifully simple Marilyn (tapered baguette diamond band). Prices available upon request at razny.com

27 Dresses. Well maybe not 27, but two dresses is a “thing” now, allowing brides the option to go with something a little more sexy and fun for the reception, like this Tadashi lace-front halter gown. $748 at Nordstrom in Oakbrook Center, nordstrom.com

Say Anything.

A classic ecru invitation is an elegant and simple say to announce your upcoming nuptials. For a touch of glamour, personalize the text in rose gold or copper. Prices available upon request at ashleyscustomstationery.com

You’ve Got Nail.

Essie’s Ballet Slippers was once the default bridal option, but today’s brides are going bolder, brighter and even bluer with their manicures. Get a customized manicure at Miuti Nails in Westmont, miutinails.business.site.

Bridesmaids. It’s no longer just the bride who gets the red carpet treatment—there’s no reason why the entire bridal party shouldn’t get the full-on glam experience. Bridal packages start at $365 at Bukes Salon & Spa in Clarendon Hills, bukesalon.com

Silver Linings Playbook. Deceptively simple on the outside, it’s all about the layers and fancy fillings, like this one from Sweet Ali’s in Hinsdale, sweetalis.com.

Royal Wedding. Chalk it up to Kate Middleton’s (formerly Princess Diana’s) engagement ring, but sapphires are both trendy and classic. They also neatly check that “something blue” box.

7.9 sapphire ring with ten pear-shaped diamonds from Merry Richards in Oakbrook Terrace, price upon request, merryrichardsjewelers.com

To The End of the Earth ANTARCTICA

Iwill admit to not even dreaming about Antarctica while planning my ultimate “Around the World Trip”. Six out of seven continents was just fine by me. But when you’re gearing up, you hang out at REI a lot, and when you do that, you run into guys like “REI Jim” who would became my travel guru. Jim looked at my itinerary and saw I was going to Patagonia, and opined, “well, if you’re going that far south, you might as well get down to Antarctica.” My bags were essentially packed and all adventures planned and paid for, so this little “etcetera” definitely added more than a few frantic moments, but in the end I booked an “Adventure Cruise” to Antarctica for February 2012.

The “normal” Antarctic cruise takes eleven days with prices between $5,000 and $20,000 depending on the berth. For this you’ll be exposed to an amazing environment during the days and see star-filled skies through the night, weather permitting. You’ll venture off the boat in the inflatable “zodiac” boats, cameras at the ready and even visit a science station based on the land. All in all, an adequate exposure to this remote location.

But as with many things I’ve done away from home, I found another way. The “Adventure Cruise” category assumes that everyone onboard wants to do more than ride in a zodiac boat. At a slightly higher price point ($7,000 to $25,000) the ship follows the same path as the others, but it’s totally different after that. Here

PHOTOGRAPHY AND WORDS BY MARK CHALABALA WWW.BIENTHERE.COM

the “zodiac” was just transport. There was kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, camping and even scuba diving. The extra cost also bought you an extra day “down south” and I wanted it all.

After two days of rough seas getting “down,” the ship dropped anchor and within an hour I was in a kayak paddling towards the British science station. We couldn’t have been in the water more than tenminutes before my berth-mate somehow rolled his kayak and needed a coordinated water-rescue to pluck him out from among the icebergs. We all just figured he’d call it a day after that, but we were “adventurers” and was keen to carry on, once he dried off a bit. And away we went.

My berth mates and I were in the cheapest room onboard; $7,000 per person, and for this, our “window to the world” was a small portal right at the water-line. During our week “down below” the ship was a buzzing hive of lycra and gortex-clad bodies in motion, either bundling up for heading out, or stripping out of water-soaked gear on the way in. Dinner was a raucous affair, the sharing of the day’s doings, and hopes for the coming dawn.

The truth is harsh in Antarctica. You will get wet, OK soaked. Sometimes that’s rain, or sometimes you’ll strip down to a bathing suit and do a “polar plunge”; but you WILL dry off. It IS cold in Antarctica, but if you live in Chicago, you will have endured much worse weather up here.

When you travel the world, there will be many “special places” along that journey, and like many things in life, there may be an “additional charge”. While these fees may seem extreme at first, I can honestly say that most fees are warranted; these places add something you can’t find anywhere else. I don’t regret the decision to “go get” Antarctica; the camera and I had a fantastic time. Sure the budget took a big hit, but it’s always important to listen to your guide, and REI Jim was dead on, when you’re that close, you have to go. ■

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