“Elaine and Brita Pagels have been dream realtors for us. We knew from the start that they loved our historic home and the care we’ve taken of it. But a historic home is not for everyone, and they have great savvy about just how to show such a home to the agents and prospective buyers most likely to be excited by this unique (nearly 100 year old) tudor cottage with guest cottage. Both Brita and Elaine did a great deal of research as well as conferring with other agents to establish the asking price. It’s clear they work very cooperativelty rather than competitively with the real estate community and are respected for their know-how, mentoring and high ethical standards by all who them. Their strategy for timing with an advance story by Crain’s Chicago Business real estate guru Dennis Rodkin just prior to two open houses gained us ideal buyers. Their team’s work on and use of photography in the Berkshire Hathaway brochure that was created for our home were masterful. Elaine and Brita have been available to us for advice at every turn even now that the house is under contract and they must be terribly busy with other properties. We couldn’t reccoment the more highly.”
- Lillian and Michael, Founders and Creators, Somersaulter-Moats film production company whose work is now held at the Chicago Film Archive
National Jeweler*, the leading New York-based news source for jewelry industry insiders, has chosen the latest group of inductees for its prestigious Retailer Hall of Fame. Stan and Ingrid Razny, second-generation owners of Razny Jewelers, are receiving the 2023 honor as forward-thinking multi-store independent jewelers.*
TALKING TIMEPIECES:
Editor and founder of WatchPro*, Rob Corder, sat with Stan Razny to talk timepieces, discuss the ever-changing landscape of the luxury watch market, and breakdown how family-owned independents provide the value that direct-to-consumer brands struggle to match.
Deemed “The Big Interview,” it also showed how seriously Razny Jewelers takes its position as the only authorized dealer for Patek Philippe in a territory that stretches across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin, surpassing 220,000 square miles.*
RAZNY JEWELERS NAMED TOP 100:
Razny Jewelers is honored to have made this year’s Hot 100 list in the Retail Power Players categoary. Published by WatchPro magazine, the premier publication for news on timepieces and jewelry for collectors around the globe, this designation is reserved for elite American jewelers who display exceptional growth and success.*
Over 75 years ago, the Razny family immigrated to America with the vision of building a legacy they could pass on to their children. Today, they are proud to have developed their dream into something far grander than they could have imagined. Ingrid Razny and Christine Razny-Porter share their family’s story in this September’s issue of Vogue Magazine.*
*Links to full articles on razny.com/press
It’s difficult to believe, but we are in our fifth year of publishing. Since 2019, we have been determined to bring our readers stories about the people, places, and organizations in our community and beyond. We hope that we have succeeded. Despite the ups and downs of publishing a local magazine, from the pandemic to the increase in operational costs with print-based products such as our magazine pages, we thrive on the challenge and look forward to supporting our community.
This issue, we celebrate milestones – and not just ours. From our cover story on Chrishon Lampley, Negociant/Founder of Love Cork Screw, to Lore Swieca’s 100th birthday, we are in a celebratory mood. Also, as we head into October, with Fire Prevention Week and Breast Cancer Awareness Month observed, we share two local stories highlighting these events.
In honor of our fifth year of publishing, some covers are standouts in my mind. Although extremely difficult to choose, below are just a few of those I find personally memorable. Be sure to visit downersgrovemag.com if you missed the issue.
Happy reading. We will meet again in November as we head into the holidays.
Sincerely,
Anne Healy Associate Publisher anne@HinsdaleMag.com
Airoom has been designing & building in Downers Grove for over 65 years. Our commitment to our craft and our clients is showcased in every project we undertake. We handle everything, from the first sketch to the final nail.
Step into our new design studio where dreams are transformed into reality.
Stop in to see Airoom’s all new kitchens from Spain, featuring beautiful Quartzstone cabinetry fronts and interiors for performance without chipping or staining!
FOUNDER & PUBLISHER
Scott Jonlich sjonlich@HinsdaleMag.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Anne Healy anne@HinsdaleMag.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Larry Atseff larry@HinsdaleMag.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Maureen Callahan
Valerie Hardy
Julie Jonlich
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Rachel Pavlovich
Jennifer Frencl
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Adam Andrzejewski
Chuck Fieldman
Julie Janoski
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS
Madeline Craig
Victor Hilitski
Greg Kozlick
Carolina Menapace
Laura Meyer
ADVERTISING SALES
Brian Ade
Renee Lawrence
Cynthia Maquet
Hinsdale Magazine Group 3 Grant Square#201 Hinsdale, IL 60521 630-655-3400
www.DownersGroveMag.com
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 ©2022 Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.
Sponsored by the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58
Friday, September 15 from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 16 from 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Oktoberfest, held in downtown Downers Grove on Burlington Avenue between Main Street and Forest Avenue, is a twoday German themed celebration with live music, entertainment Kids Zone (Saturday only) offering German fare and seasonal beverages to celebrate the beginning of Fall. All proceeds from the event fund programs for District 58 schools. Visit 58foundation.org for more information.
Sponsored by The Elmhurst Heritage Foundation
Saturday, September 16 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, the fundraising arm for the Elmhurst History Museum, hosts this event to benefit the educational programs and exhibits for the History Museum and the Churchville SchoolHouse. Just steps away from the Metra Station, the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation showcases dozens of local breweries on the beautiful grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum. Visit ElmhurstCraftBeerFest.com for more information.
Sponsored by St. Mark Coptic Church of Chicago in Burr Ridge Saturday, September 23 from
11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 24 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The annual Taste of Egypt festival is a weekend full of food, camel rides, inflatables, art, jewelry, crafts, and more at St. Mark Coptic Church (455 79th Street in Burr Ridge). Spend the day perusing authentic Egyptian souvenirs, and jewelry at Nefertiti’s Treasures while King Tut’s Kingdom will excite every child with face painting and crafts. Visit TasteofEgyptFestival.com for more information.
Sponsored by the Oakbrook Center
Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Discover the best artisans in a variety of mediums at this 2-day open-air market at The Lawn at Oakbrook Center. Meet. Showcasing 60+ top Midwest artisans, shop the Midwest's finest artisans in fashion, food,
home goods and art. Visit OakBrookArtisanMarket.com for more information.
Sponsored by Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, October 12 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Downtown Hinsdale
Participants at the 4th annual WineWalk will sample up to 12 different wines at various stops in Hinsdale. Stroll the streets with friends and neighbors and support local businesses. Visit HinsdaleChamber.com for more information.
Haunted Forest
Sponsored by the Westmont Park District
Saturday, October 21 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Smith Woods (200 59th Street in Westmont) will come alive for one very magical, mystical night! Participants will hop on a wagon ride that takes them from Diane Main Park through the terrify-
ing woods path scenes followed by a walk through the wicked woods. Younger viewers should attend the “Little Monsters” showing from 3:00 pm. To 6:30 p.m. The “Sheer Terror” showing will begin at 7:00 p.m. Visit WestmontParks.org for more information.
Sponsored by DuPage County Historical Museum
Open through April 13, 2024
Tuesday - Saturday Visit the DuPage County His-
torical Museum in Wheaton to explore expositions and world fairs from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Meet Me at the Fair: The Chicago World's Fairs in DuPage County looks at the ways in which these two expositions in Chicago impacted DuPage County residents by exploring the various advancements of art, architecture, social issues, agriculture, and technology that were happening during
these points of time. Visit DuPageMuseum.org to for more information.
Sponsored by the Morton Arboretum Exhibition through spring 2025
Visit the Morton Arboretum to see five large-scale sculptures fashioned from reclaimed tree branches and other natural materials by Polish American artist Olga Ziemska. As the newest outdoor exhibition at The Morton Arboretum,the sculptures range in size from 5- to 14-feet tall and 45 feet in length. Visit MortonArb.org for more information.
When his second album, “This Is Landing,” was released in June, David Rokos reflected on his path to this point.
Rokos recalled “falling in love with Blink-182” when he first heard their music. He asked his parents for a guitar and began taking lessons at the Lincoln Center. Starting at age 13, Rokos played in various garage bands. “I made friends who were also
BY VALERIE HARDY | PHOTOS BY 726 VISUALSinto music, and it just kind of grew from there,” Rokos said of his early musical experiences.
His bands often performed at open mic events, including many at the Two Way Street Coffee House, a live music venue inside the First Congregational Church in downtown Downers Grove.
After graduating from Downers Grove North High School in 2006, Rokos left town to attend college. He continued to play guitar “on and off”
while in college, but when he graduated and his “buddy started a band,” he returned to playing as often as he had during high school, he said. Six years ago, he put out his first solo record: “When You Were Her.”
Rokos wrote all of the songs on “When You Were Her” over a six-week period after his relationship with his longtime girlfriend ended. “When the inspiration to write strikes, it’s kind of a flood,” he said. “Nothing makes more inspiration than one good song.”
While Rokos’s first album is “about one thing: the breakup,” his new album is much “more varied in its song topics and just more poppy and brighter overall,” he explained. “There are synthesizers in it, and half the songs are about traveling.”
The album’s title is a play on words of sorts, referencing the central travel theme within many of the songs and also symbolizing the record’s underlying message of “being happy with where you landed” in life, Rokos said. “This Is Landing” was inspired largely by Rokos’s wife, Shelley, his companion on his many travels to destinations like Asia and Europe. Rokos laughed as he explained how he started dating Shelley, also a Downers Grove North alum, between writing and recording the songs from his first album. “We had been dating for nine months when ‘When You Were Her’ came out, and Shelley’s mom’s favorite song from that album is called ‘I’m Sorry (I Still Love You),’ which is about my ex-girlfriend – so that’s funny.”
On a more serious note, Rokos said Shelley (and her mother) always supported his music, for which he is deeply appreciative.
Rokos describes his music as “pop rock – upbeat, catchy, and fun.” Most of his live performances are acoustic – just him on guitar and vocals – but on the new album, there is more of a full band feel. Rokos said he performed all of the guitar, bass, “keys,” and vocals, while his friend, Bobby Loesch of Naperville, played the drums.
The overall production of “This Is Landing” was an effort among friends, too. Matt Holmes, a friend who attended Downers Grove South High School, mixed it, and Sam Carroll, one of Rokos’s friends from North High, produced the album.
In addition to sharing the production experience with his friends, Rokos enjoyed creating his second album because “recording it was really cool and different.” He recorded his first album at “one studio in the city – every-
thing was very self-contained,” while he recorded “This Is Landing” in a “more spread out” manner, he said.
Rokos recorded some of the instrumentals for his new album at The Echo Mill and other components at Gravity Studios – whose previous clientele include big-name bands like Fall Out
that at age 35, he “probably won’t be a rock star,” but he has landed exactly where he wants to be.
“I’m not sure I’d want to be gone all the time touring,” Rokos said. For now, he is content with his home base on the south side of Downers Grove and a smaller scale tour plan, which includes performances in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Pittsburgh, along with a full band show at Miskatonic Brewing Company in Darien on Nov. 10.
Boy and The Smashing Pumpkins. While both aforementioned studios are located in Chicago, Rokos also recorded in Los Angeles.
Scheduled to travel to LA for a conference for his full-time job, Rokos decided to book a recording space at Village Studios, where one of his greatest musical inspirations, Tom Petty, formerly recorded. “That was why I chose that studio,” Rokos said, “and I was able to record two acoustic songs in one night while I was there.”
When not making music, Rokos can be found at Argonne National Laboratory, where he works as a Senior Lead Video Editor, or at the College of DuPage, where he is an adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in film and video or motion picture editing two nights per week.
Rokos feels fortunate that his “day job is also a creative outlet,” so he does not “feel so much pressure to play music” and can do it just for fun. He recognizes
Visit davidrokosmusic.com for more information, and be sure to click on the link to listen to “Run, Run Ronnie!,” a lighthearted Christmas tune (which also happens to be his most popular song on Spotify) about Rokos’s dog taking over for Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer.
“My wife and I are DINKWADS (double income, no kids, with a dog),” Rokos joked. “Yes, we’re obsessed with our dog – pretty stereotypical millennials.”
“Nothing makes more inspiration than one good song.”
– DAVID ROKOSLOCAL MUSICIAN DAVID ROKOS
In 1948, John Alan Macnider started Alan Heating & Air Conditioning in Elmhurst. He said, “If you provide courteous, honest, professional service so a family can have more comfort, you can have a life-long friend.”
The family business has grown steadily following that belief. Today, Eric Weech, Vice-President of Operations, says, “We pride ourselves on customizing different options to fit each family’s unique needs so they enjoy optimum comfort.”
Family is a priority at Alan. Eric, his wife Tammy, three children and six grandkids, and Hope, their rescue dog, are all near and dear. Eric also believes in community. Alan is an active member of the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and the Spring Road Business Association. The whole family pitches in for Spring Road events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Pet Parade, and Christmas at the Gazebo.
Alan technicians are exceptionally well trained and offer a wide range of high technology and innovative Lennox HVAC products, so you are sure to receive the most energy-efficient and cost-effective system that will make your home more comfortable.
Dr. Patel is a leading Orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee and shoulder preservation by using the most appropriate, least invasive techniques. From consultation to recovery, he is trusted for his care and concern for patients. His patients come to him for second and third opinions, and fellow surgeons turn to Dr. Patel for complex, specialized cases.
Go to drronakpatel.com or call 630-929-2249
BY CYNTHIA MAQUET
In 1930, Downers Grove resident Lore Swieca attended her first Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Ninety-three years later, she is still a loyal Cubs fan. On July 16, 2023, Swieca and 54 of her closest friends and family took a charter bus from Downers Grove to the Friendly Confines to celebrate her 100th birthday by rooting for her favorite team.
Although the Cubs lost to the Boston Red Sox on Swieca's birthday outing, the day will go down in history and never be forgotten by those who attended with her. The group made a "visitor's box" (the seat next to her) for her attendees to rotate in and out and spend time with her throughout the game. She even enjoyed a Cub's beer from a bat and made it on the scoreboard's video screen!
Swieca's favorite part of the game will always be "when the Cubbies hit a home run!" This has not changed since she was seven years old.
The Chicago-born native grew up on the North Side of Chicago but has made her home in Downers Grove for the past 23 years. She enjoys spending time with her family, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her son Chris
Swieca added, "My mom and dad (in memoriam) also spent 20 years in Long Boat Key, Florida, imprinting fond memories for all of us."
Now Swieca enjoys playing Scrabble and practicing horticulture. She is also blessed with a great group of neighbors in such a wonderful community.
When asked if she had any advice for others, Swieca answered, "You cannot move forward if you keep looking back." Sage advice from a centenarian.
WE’RE CHANGING THE EXPECTATIONS OF EXTERIOR COATINGS—ONE JOB AT A TIME.
IMAGINE NOT HAVING TO PAINT YOUR HOME AGAIN FOR OVER 25 YEARS!
•Bonds to Wood, Brick, Stucco, Vinyl & Aluminum
•Won’t Chip, Flake, Crack or Peel
•Non-Prorated Transferable Warranty
•Looks Thicker & Richer Than Paint
•Resists Mold & Mildew
•3M Ceramics–Low “E” Rating
•Water-Resistant & Breathable
•BASF Tested & Proven to Last
•Class “A” Fire Rating. Won’t Burn
According to the National Fire Protection Association’s website, the annual Fire Prevention Week is scheduled for the second week in October “in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871.”
The weeklong observance aims to educate community members of all ages about ways to stay safe from fire. While citizens’ attention to fire safety is heightened in the fall because of Fire Prevention Week, Downers Grove firefighters are committed to it every day, all year long.
The Fire Department provides 24-hour fire suppression, rescue, and
emergency medical services in addition to fire prevention, inspection, and investigation services. Not just during Fire Prevention Week but throughout the year, the Fire Department also “delivers award-winning and nationally recognized fire and life safety education” to students in the community, the Department’s webpage noted.
The Downers Grove Fire Department’s excellence is also evident in its top Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating. “The ISO assigned a public protection classification (PPC) on a scale from 1 to 10. We are a 1, the best you can be, which results in, among other things, lower insurance rates for our residents and businesses,”
explained Downers Grove Mayor Bob Barnett.
Though not used as part of the criteria for determining the Fire Department’s ISO rating explicitly, a factor contributing to the Department’s excellence is the extensive training its personnel undergo. For example, in March, firefighters participated in a multi-day hands-on training at three American Foursquare structures on the 49th block of Main Street that were earmarked to be demolished in May.
The buildings used for the training most recently functioned as commercial spaces before being vacated and sold to Downers Grove-based Barriere Construction, a third-generation, family-owned custom builder-developer.
Adam Barry, a
Downers Grove resident and the president of Barriere Construction, said the structures were assessed to be largely unrehabilitatable, which contributed to the plan to construct on that property a 21-unit active adult rental community with street-level retail and restaurant space.
So how did the Main Street buildings slated for demolition become the backdrop for the Fire Department trainings (and Police Department trainings, as they used the structures for professional education purposes as well)?
Twenty-year Downers Grove resident Tom Schroder played matchmaker, connecting the Village and Barry. Schroder owns an American Foursquare home in town, and he belongs to a Downers Grove-based American Foursquare group dedicated to documenting historic ownership of such homes, touring the homes and drafting their floor plans, and – when possible – working to preserve these architectural gems.
Schroder toured the three American Foursquare buildings that Barriere Construction had marked for demolition, and he said that while he hoped they could be “saved,” he saw the “severe structural damage to each of them” and recognized that the necessary repairs would be cost-prohibitive.
“I approached Adam [Barry] to see if he’d be willing to allow the Village to use the three buildings for training purposes before they were taken down,” Schroder said. “It seemed like too good of an opportunity to pass up, to get one more
valuable use out of these buildings to provide a real-life training backdrop for our valued and topnotch-trained fire department and police department staff.”
It was an easy yes for Barry, who believes “there’s nothing better than doing in-the-field training.”
Barry observed some of the Fire Department training from his office, which is located directly across the street from the buildings used for the training. He noticed how the training included the use of a smoke machine to simulate the conditions of an actual fire, and how the firefighters were up on the roof, practicing cutting holes in it.
“The risk they put themselves in to get that training done, it was unbelievable,” Barry said. He added that he hopes he can support similar first responder training initiatives with other buildings of his in the future.
Barry’s donation of training space was greeted with gratitude. Downers Grove Village Manager Dave Fieldman said, “The Village always appreciates when property owners provide the Police and Fire Departments the opportunity to train in local buildings before they are demolished.”
The trainings in March were so beneficial that the Village asked Barriere Construction to extend the time available to them for training purposes. “Creating fire suppression and emergency rescue scenarios suitable for training can be difficult,” Fieldman said, “and there’s just no substitute for field simulations in actual buildings…especially when these training events can be conducted over several days in order to accommodate the varied shifts of our Police Officers and FireFighter Paramedics.”
Mayor Barnett recognized the importance of taking advantage of the unique opportunity for hands-on training across multiple adjacent buildings as well. He said that Downers Grove prioritizes training its first responders – in the classroom, on apparatuses, and in the field. He added, “We train them, train them, and train them some more, so when pressed for service, they’re ready.”
Fire Prevention Week will conclude on Oct. 13 with the annual Silent Parade, which serves to pay tribute to all who have lost their lives to fire. The parade, which will feature fire department vehicles from Downers Grove and nearby municipalities, all with their lights flashing but no sirens sounding, will begin in Hinsdale at 7 p.m. and travel through Downers Grove at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Main Street at approximately 7:15 p.m.
“There’s just no substitute for field simulations in actual buildings.”
– DAVE FIELDMAN, DOWNERS GROVE VILLAGE MANAGERPHOTO BY TOM SCHRODER FIREFIGHTERS ENGAGE IN INVALUABLE HANDS-ON TRAINING USING THREE BUILDINGS ON MAIN STREET PRIOR TO THEIR DEMOLITION. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE
In a world where first impressions matter, the loss of hair can be a challenging journey to navigate. Your hair is more than just a part of your appearance; it's a reflection of your identity, personality, and self-confidence. CSC Dermatology understands the impact that hair loss can have on your life and offers effective solutions that go beyond superficial fixes. Let CSC walk you through the transformative path towards regaining your luscious locks and confidence.
Picture this: your hair follicles are like precious brain cells, and once they're gone, they're gone for good. Just as brain cells don't regenerate, neither do hair follicles. That's why it's crucial to address hair loss early on. Waiting until you notice a significant thinning can limit your options and outcomes. Think of it as nipping the issue in the bud – early intervention can be the key to maintaining a full head of hair that you're proud to flaunt.
Hair loss treatment is a commitment, much like taking care of your oral hygiene. Just as you wouldn't neglect brushing your teeth, you shouldn't overlook the care your hair needs. At CSC Dermatology, treating hair loss is not just a process, but a lifestyle choice. Our Experts provide you with personalized treatment plans that incorporate the latest advancements in dermatology.
At CSC Dermatology, we understand that every individual's hair loss journey is unique. That's why we offer a range of effective treatments designed to cater to your specific needs:
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: Harnessing the power of your body's own resources, PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the healing elements, and injecting it into your scalp. This process stimulates hair follicles, encouraging natural hair growth. PRP therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that offers impressive results, revitalizing both your hair and your confidence.
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Much like a healthy lifestyle, maintaining your hair's health requires consistency. Our experts advise undergoing treatments approximately every six months to ensure optimal results. Even a hair transplant needs maintenance therapy to preserve the hair and to prevent further loss. Just as you wouldn't skip your workout routine, regular appointments at CSC Dermatology can help you achieve the hair you want.
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Embark on your journey towards renewed self-assurance today. Don't let hair loss hold you back from feeling and looking your best. Reach out to CSC Dermatology to schedule a consultation tailored to your needs. The team of experienced professionals is committed to guiding you every step of the way on your path to hair restoration.
In conclusion, hair loss doesn't have to be an irreversible fate. CSC Dermatology offers a range of effective treatments that can bring your hair back to life. Remember, early intervention is the key, and maintaining your hair's health is a commitment worth making. Take the first step towards reclaiming your crowning glory and contact CSC Dermatology today. ■
“There are a lot of options available to treat and prevent hair loss. Our job is to educate and help patients navigate their choices.”
- DR. CHRISTINA STEIL
Our goal at Downers Grove Magazine is to feature stories about you. But as we head into our fifth year of publishing, we peel back the curtain and give you some insight into this team and why these individuals dedicate their time and energy to the publication. They have researched, interviewed, and written about a variety of topics. Now it is time for them to share their stories.
In the spring of 2019, I approached Scott Jonlich, Owner and Publisher of Hinsdale Magazine, regarding starting a local publication for our community. Although a transplant from Michigan (and downtown Chicago), I felt immediately at home here. After quitting the corporate rat race to stay home with my three children, I dove headfirst into being part of the community, and all it offers. As a professional volunteer, I served as a President and Board Member of the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club and PTA President and Board Member for my elementary school to name a few. Whether coaching out on the fields through the park district or serving on committees for District 58, I met so many organizations and individuals. Although I continue my volunteer efforts as President of the Downers Grove Swim & Racquet Club and District 58 Education Foundation Board Member, my primary focus has turned to doing something I truly love. Connecting our readers with our community. The faces you see in our magazine are our neighbors, friends, teachers, law enforcement officers, and business owners – to name a few. I often joke that we are not Time or Newsweek magazines, but kidding aside, I am vested in this community and want to showcase all we have to offer, one issue and one story at a time. Downers Grove is special. It is a gem. And it is my home.
Editor
I began my journey in the publishing industry when launching Hinsdale Magazine in 2011. Although our footprint and reach has continued to grow and thrive throughout the years, including the launch of Downers Grove Magazine in 2019, our goal remains the same. Hinsdale Magazine Group prides itself on producing engaging content, including local news, events, and profiles of unique individuals and businesses. As the company expands through various digital and social media platforms, I am proud to expand the outreach of our portfolio of magazines to ultimately increase comprehensive coverage of communities in the western suburbs. Congratulations to the writers, photographers, contributors, and advertisers on the success of Downers Grove Magazine. We look forward to showcasing this amazing community for the next five years. And thank you to the readers who have had such a positive response to our publication and stories.
Downers Grove has been my home for nearly 20 years, and I have worked within the community even longer teaching various English and journalism courses at Downers Grove South High School. My passion for writing and reporting initially took root when I was a journalism student at the University of Illinois, and when Downers Grove Magazine was getting started, I jumped at the opportunity to serve on its editorial staff. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many interesting, giving, strong, and talented people, and it has been an absolute honor to help bring their stories to our readers.
I like working for Downers Grove Magazine because I love this town! I am proud of it. I grew up here and have made a lifetime of wonderful memories here. My husband, Glenn, and I chose to move back here to raise our three children, Rory, Maeve, and Kathleen, because we wanted this to be their town. There is something very solid about Downers Grove. It’s a place that can be counted on for an excellent education, caring friends and neighbors and a strong sense of community. The best part of this job is the opportunity to interview people and capture their stories, while making new friends in the process.
Contributing Writer and Ad Consultant
I am fortunate to have various roles with Downers Grove Magazine and can give back and support the community through my work. Not only do I get to put my love of writing into action, but I also get to meet and see various businesses to help them reach their marketing objectives through the partnership opportunities we offer. My favorite story to date, on Young Hearts 4 Life, is one I have a personal connection with. At the age of 18, open heart surgery saved my life. The opportunity to write about an organization that detects heart problems and has saved so many teenagers’ lives was indeed an honor.
My husband and I relocated to downtown Downers Grove from Ukrainian Village after the publishing company I work for went fully remote in 2014. We were looking to move someplace with independently owned restaurants, accessibility to the city, and walkability. In Chicago, I freelanced for Mindful Metropolis Magazine. I was drawn to the local feel it had and the creativity a smaller organization offered. I began at Downers Grove Magazine in July 2022, and it has allowed me to combine my passion for design with community connection. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to make our town's publication something to be proud of.
Wolowick Women's Health is now open in Downers Grove. Dr. Karen Wolowick has been a practicing OBGYN for over 17 years. She aims to reconnect with the more intimate and rewarding aspects of women's health and spend more time with patients to make a difference.
BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
Wine shopping can be complicated and intimidating if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Former Downers Grove resident and owner of Love Cork Screw Wine, Chrishon Lampley, has changed that. She’s spent the last ten years moving ahead in a crowded industry by making wine shopping simple and fun. Her labels, all of which sport a heart in place of a letter, have names like Head Over Heels, In Two Deep, and Be the Light. The clever titles speak to shoppers.
After attending El Sierra, O’Neill, and eventually Downers Grove South, she went on to earn a com-
bined BS in Consumer Science and Business Fashion degree through a collaborative program between Western Illinois University and the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan. The opportunity to live in New York’s Garment District cultivated Lampley’s interest in fashion. Her first job involved high-end retail sales and management. After managing a few million dollars in sales, she had an a-ha
moment. “I got tired of making money for everyone else,” Lampley realized. “I wanted something for myself.”
She utilized the artistic skills she cultivated while working in fashion to co-open and own Three P’s- pottery, painting, and photography- an art and wine bar in the city’s South Loop neighborhood. For two years, Three P’s operated as an upscale neighborhood art
gallery/wine bar. Lampley created the wine list, which earned her Chicago’s Best Wine List in 2009. “We were kind of like the art gallery version of Cheers,” Lampley laughed. “We not only had amazing art, but the idea of a full bar in a gallery was different than what was out there at that moment.”
Unfortunately, a stumbling block in the form of a flood forced Lampley to shutter the business just two years later. To shake herself out of the disappointment of losing the gallery, she channeled the negative energy into some new endeavors.
To stay in the wine game, she began a blog, which eventually morphed into a podcast entitled Love Cork Screw. Although originally meant to be a
way to stay visible in the industry, it became a form of therapy that gained Lampley 4,000 listeners. The title had a threefold meaning. The “Love” section consisted of stories and misadventures of two single gals- herself and her business partner- living in the city. “Cork” covered Lampley’s
that could be monetized. It did, however, help usher in Lampley’s current endeavor. “I thought to myself, ‘What do I want to do that everyone tells me I can’t do’? I thought about how, although the wine market is saturated, there’s nobody in it that looks like me.” With her list of industry contacts in hand, she drove to the vineyards with whom she had built relationships from her wine bar.
varietal picks and restaurant recommendations. Pop culture and a weekly wildcard topic fell under “Screw.”
While the podcast helped shake off the blues, it wasn’t really something
Under the tutelage of the vineyard owners, she learned to make wine. She asked to be taught the ins and outs of creating custom crush blends by working hand-in-hand with the winemakers. From residual sugar trials to becoming familiar with the aging process to choosing the type of storage barrels she would use, Lampley proved a quick study.
“I’ve had great success. If I can, I always want to take somebody with me.”
- FORMER DG RESIDENT AND OWNER OF LOVE CORK SCREW WINE, CHRISHON LAMPLEY, ON HELPING OTHER UNDERREPRESENTED ENTREPRENEURS GAIN VISIBILITY.CLINK FESTIVAL IS AN ANNUAL CHICAGO-BASED WINE AND SPIRITS FESTIVAL DEDICATED TO HIGHLIGHTING WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN THE INDUSTRY.
Now a decade in business, Lampley is a wildly successful négociant- the French title for a wine merchant who buys the grapes from vineyards and creates their own wine. Her label, Love Cork Screw, has sold three million bottles! Last year, Lampley was recognized as the first African American woman in the Midwest to create a national wine brand.
Lampley’s mindset, “enjoy it, drink it, but don’t overthink it,” has carried her a long way. She realizes that for some, the wine aisle can be intimidating. According to her, “90% of people are just looking for something they like; there are very few connoisseurs.”
She created her labels with fun, double entendres to speak to buyers from a market shelf. Take her pinot grigio, ‘Good Times Good Friends,’ for example. “People might not know the menu of the barbeque they’re going to,” Lampley explained. “But they’re looking for a bottle to give the host. This name will speak to them, and the varietal pairs well with a typical menu for a gathering, so they’ll remember it.” Genius.
Her passion for wine has opened doors to other business opportuni-
ties, as well as the chance to share her success. The Lampley, her line of home goods, ranges from candles and handmade soaps to textiles, cork art, and throw pillows. And yes- you guessed it- wine! While the concepts behind the items are largely her own, Lampley hires creatives to help bring products to life. She enjoys showcasing the original work of other Chicagoland entrepreneurs. “I have a large platform, and I want to be sure I can help others be seen and make money,” she said. “I’ve had great success. If I can, I always want to take somebody with me.”
Clink Fest is an annual gathering created by Lampley which offers an opportunity for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the wine and spirit industry to gain visibility. Last year’s inaugural event was held at Elmhurst History Museum. The event was so successful, however, that it outgrew the space. This year, it’s set to be held at Bridgeport Art Museum.
Lampley vets and curates Clink Fest herself, with sponsorship coming through Absolut and Stoli, as well as other national brands. She invites
others from the industry- at no charge- to showcase their labels to buyers and consumers to gain visibility. “I want to support other women and people of color and really get these small businesses out there,” she said. “Mariano’s sponsors it and provides some amazing chefs to handle all the food.”
For Lampley, growing up in Downers Grove, a place of little diversity at the time, made her what she is todaysuccessful. Her parents had amazing perspectives on the difficulties they knew she would face and prepared her well with much self-confidence. “Downers Grove was not at all diverse when I grew up there,” Lampley remembered. “But it connects me to where I am now, in an industry that doesn’t look like me, either. I learned early on to grow tough skin.”
Look for Love Cork Screw at Mariano’s, Jewel-Osco, Meijer, and select Target and Walmart stores. Lampley’s wine and home goods line may be found at lovecorkscrew.com and thelampley.com. Visit clinkfestival. com to snag tickets for this year’s Clink Fest on September 17.
Make
To live and dream. To play and rest. To connect and grow. To welcome bigger, better things.
It takes courage to transform an idea into a business, along with hard work and dedication, to keep it running. Several Downers Grove businesses are celebrating milestones this year. Whether a century, half of that, or five years, their successes deserve recognition.
When Tim Canning and Todd Davies opened Cadence Kitchen five years ago, their idea was to bring a city flair to Downers Grove’s restaurant scene. The pair met at Kenwood College in the mid-90s and went on to work together for the same chef for several years after graduation. While each brought different insights to the project, their collaboration resulted in an amazing restaurant.
The name Cadence has a musical undertone relevant to the rock and
roll theme. But the title is also indicative of their collaboration of steps. “In the restaurant business, you kind of move to a cadence,” said Canning. To plan the menu, they brainstormed ideas of dishes that are warm and comforting and, most importantly, in season. “We wanted it to be unique and playful but approachable,” said Davies. “We made lists and circled ideas, then flagged them. If things make sense to me, they usually make sense to Tim.”
Their hands-on approach largely contributes to the restaurant’s success. For the first six months, both rolled up their sleeves and gave a live demonstration of their expectations to the staff. “We were in the trenches with our team until we got the staff trained up and seeing things the way we see them,” said Canning. “Eventually, we were able to pass the baton,
and our team is now capable of running the ship.”
Canning and Davies make it a point to take care of their community. They have ongoing relationships with multiple charities. Giving back is a tenant to their business model in the form of donations to numerous school fundraisers, The Y, Blessings in a Backpack, and many more. “Most of our friends in the city had to close their restaurants after COVID, but the community supported us to the fullest,” Davies relayed. “So, we’re happy to return the favor by giving back.”
Louie Imbrogno, owner of Louis for Men, can advise any guy on how to dress for any occasion, including the everyday. From custom wedding suits to dances to interviews -and any day in
between- this is the spot for the best designers and quality menswear.
The antique Vespa just inside the door at 748 Ogden Ave. is a nod to Imbrogno’s father, Louis Imbrogno Senior, who immigrated from Italy in the early 60s. He opened the business as a tailor and alteration studio in 1973. When his son signed on 20 years later, he taught him the art of tailoring. “I have an in-house tailor these days, but if we’re really busy or have an emergency, I can get in the back and help out, too,” said Louie.
Shortly after Louie came on board, they began selling formalwear and suits, with higher-end casual brands such as Tommy Bahama, Seven Diamonds, and Nacobi eventually following.
Louie knows the ins and outs of men’s clothing and enjoys helping clients choose clothes for any occasion. Custom suits- for work or formal occasions- are the specialty of the house. Ever since COVID, “renting wedding tuxedos is kind of going by the wayside,” according to Louie. “These days, grooms want to choose the fabric, lining, buttons, lapel, and slacks. We’re happy to help dress customers for their big day.”
Or any day. The casual dress offerings are as varied as the business
attire. No matter the occasion, however, “you have to like it, and it has to fit,” Louie firmly believes. “It’s all about comfort, even when you’re dressed up.”
In addition to many local patrons, generational customers drive back from Winnetka, St. Charles, and other distant suburbs. There are clients who have moved out of state and come back into the store when they’re in town for the weekend. “It’s a relationship,” Louie smiled. “They know us. They can rely on our fits.”
A good plumber is someone you might not know until you’re underwater. Literally!
The name Stephens Plumbing & Heating has come to be synonymous with Downers Grove. Arthur Stephens and Henry Rosenbaum fulfilled a community need when they opened StephensPlumbing. They first hung out a shingle at 1033 Burlington Ave in 1923. They survived the crash of ’29 and went on to build a successful and recognized brand. After moving loca-
tions several times over the past century, the business is now located at 747 Ogden Avenue.
Stephens has grown substantially from basic plumbing to the addition of HVAC services and, more recently, the option of full kitchen and bathroom remodels. Now, with 20 trucks and as many field technicians, you’re likely to see one anytime you’re out and about in town.
Perhaps part of the reason for this great success is continuity. In a hundred years, the business has only changed families once. Valentine Claus bought it from Arthur Stephens in 1968. It then passed to Kevin’s father, Matthew Claus, followed by his uncle, Anthony Claus. The current owner, Kevin Claus, purchased the company from his father and is still in the field and on call for emergency services.
Stephens passion for honest work is palpable. “Doing the job right the first time and always standing by our work, as well as our word, are priorities to us,” said Claus. “We pride ourselves on old-fashioned quality and service and enjoy helping where we are needed.”
When Kayla Redig noticed a lump in her breast and went to have it examined, the doctor told her it was probably just a cyst. Redig, a 2006 Downers Grove North High School graduate, was only 24 at the time and was otherwise healthy.
The lump concerned her though, and despite her doctor’s reluctance to order an ultrasound or mammogram given the statistical unlikelihood of breast cancer at her age, Redig, a self-proclaimed “yes man and people pleaser,” was uncharacteristically adamant in her self-advocacy. “There was something inside of me pushing for an answer,” she said.
The answer she received was an unwelcomed one. She was diagnosed with breast cancer that had spread to the lymph nodes in her armpit. She went from feeling invincible to fearing for her life.
“Cancer at the age I was diagnosed tends to be more aggressive,” Redig said, so there was a sense of urgency around starting treatment. However, she was informed that if she wanted to have children, fertility treatment would be necessary before she could begin cancer treatment.
Redig, who was unmarried at the time, said she did not feel it prudent to “risk my life and delay treatment for a family I didn’t even have.”
She decided to forego fertility treatment and commenced chemotherapy. She was buoyed by the support of family and friends, but she noticed that while her “friends were eager to show up to treatments… come Friday night, [her] phone would be really quiet.”
While Redig was fighting the debilitating side effects of chemotherapy, her friends were “out at the bar” and doing other “age-appropriate” activities that she could not do, even if she was invited, due to her compromised immune system. She felt distanced from her peers and unprepared for how her treatment would impact her, “not only physically, but also emotionally and psychologically,” she said.
Redig began thinking cancer treatment “wasn’t worth it.” Her mother, concerned about her declining mental health, told her doctors, “You’re doing a great job treating her body, but what about treating her mind?”
After starting an antidepressant regimen, Redig’s mood improved. “I changed how I wanted to show up to treatments,” she said, and she declared her chemo days as “Theme-o” days, including superhero, prom, mustache bash, Blackhawks, and the 1980s.
Redig dressed up accordingly, and so did members of her support system and medical care team. “For the 80s-themed day, my dad, who never missed a treatment, wore the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ jersey and a hockey helmet, and my social worker came in her prom dress – actually from the 80s – clothespinned shut,” Redig said. Other patients started to dress in themed apparel too.
Redig finished treatment and received the “best possible outcome – no evidence of disease,” she said, but survivorship proved unexpectedly difficult. “Cancer didn’t just touch my left breast or armpit. It touched relationships, finances, career – you name it.”
Having followed in her parents’ foot-
steps and become a teacher, Redig was overwhelmed upon returning to work post-treatment. “I sat in the car for two hours crying before I could go in to start my first day back teaching,” she said. “My world had changed so much.”
Teaching no longer resonated with her as it had pre-cancer, so she changed careers. “I started working for a company that actually let my title be Professional Cancer Survivor,” Redig said. In this role, she wrote professionally, leading her to contemplate
and survivors, “who were eager to share their stories and help create age-appropriate resources.”
During the filming process, the “Vincible” crew traveled to interview numerous young adult cancer patients and survivors, and “many beautiful friendships were created,” Redig said.
writing a book, inspired by her cancer journey, “for the fighter, the friend, and the family member.”
However, a friend encouraged her to create a film instead. “I knew nothing about the film industry,” Redig explained, “but I am good at having an eye for good people and people who know their crafts.”
She set out to learn as much as possible and build a team to help her create what would become the documentary “Vincible,” which sheds light on the isolating experience of having cancer as a young adult. Redig said that after her diagnosis, she felt she “didn’t belong with peers but also didn’t belong in the hospital.”
She was surrounded by “childhood cancer and geriatric patients” during chemotherapy. “I didn’t see many people like me,” she lamented. “[Yet] my story is one of 70,000 per year just like it.”
Redig turned to social media to connect with other young adult cancer patients
It took approximately two years, along with $45,000 from a Kickstarter campaign, to complete the film, which premiered in 2018. “Vincible” is available for streaming on Prime Video.
Some medical schools even include “Vincible” in their curriculums. “We love connecting with medical students as part of our continued advocacy work,” Redig said.
Redig’s recent advocacy work involves helping design a local hospital’s cancer center from a patient perspective, and she said she also works on the “professional side of the mental health world.”
Though busy with the demands of her professional commitments, Redig prioritizes time with her family, including her daughter, who was born in 2016, three years after her cancer diagnosis. Redig said doctors told her she was infertile “exactly one year to the day” before she learned she was pregnant. “The fact that I got a happy ending out of this was really remarkable.”
“Cancer didn’t just touch my left breast or armpit. It touched relationships, finances, career – you name it.”
– KAYLA REDIG, “VINCIBLE” DIRECTOR & CREATORTHE REDIG FAMILY CHOSE “BLACKHAWKS” FOR KAYLA’S LAST DAY OF “THEME-O” TO HONOR HER FAVORITE TEAM FOR THEIR SUPPORT THROUGHOUT HER CANCER EXPERIENCE. "VINCIBLE” CREW MEMBERS PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW WITH ONE OF THE FILM’S SUBJECTS.
We’ve been honored to serve you good beats and great eats for the last five years in Downers Grove. A heartfelt thank you for coming in and giving us a chance to welcome you within the walls of Cadence. We have celebrated countless birthdays, brunch meetups, dinner dates, patio cocktails, and everything in between. Cheers to the next five years.
We can’t wait to see you again!
A new early-night show offers Chicago-quality comedy that is relatable and accessible to suburban audiences
BY VALERIE HARDY | PHOTOS BY MADELINE CRAIGLooking for some local laughs but not a night owl? In Bed
By Ten, a newcomer to the suburban live comedy scene, is the answer.
Founded and produced by comedians
Bridget Frodyma of Downers Grove and Casey Alltop of LaGrange Park, In Bed By Ten, which opened in May, features monthly performances by Chicago-caliber improvisers, stand-up comedians, and other acts – right from the stage at the Tivoli Bowl.
“As long as it’s a comedy act, we’re open to it,” Frodyma said about the show’s variety format. “Next month could include musical comedy or a spoken word piece.”
Alltop and Frodyma became friends while doing shows at The Annoyance Theatre in 2011. At the time, both were city dwellers without children. Fast forward over a decade,
and these funny friends are both suburban moms.
While they recognized that these life changes could complicate their comedy careers, they committed to continue performing. However, with day jobs (Alltop in sales enablement and Frodyma in communications) plus young children (Alltop’s ages 3 and 6 and Frodyma’s age 4), late nights doing shows in the city became increasingly prohibitive for the pair. Thus was born the idea for “a comedy show with a reasonable bedtime,” a concept which ultimately became In Bed By Ten’s tagline, based in the burbs.
Alltop had contemplated starting a comedy show since she moved to the suburbs, periodically visiting spaces in LaGrange to possibly house such a show, but to no avail. Then, last year, the idea of an early evening live comedy show resur -
faced during a discussion with Frodyma. The two were confident in the concept and knew finding talented comedians to perform would be easy, but, Frodyma said, “the hard part was finding the space and money.”
The Tivoli Bowl checked both boxes. “The price was right, the space worked, and the management was welcoming” Alltop said. It is also conveniently located across from Downers Grove’s Main Street Metra station, so performers and patrons from the city can easily commute to shows, and it boasts a central location with plenty of parking for suburbanites.
The show also needed a catchy title. “We were shopping names when ‘In Bed By Ten’ came up,” Alltop explained, “and we laughed our butts off.” They knew they had found a fit.
The name humorously captured what Alltop and Frodyma were hoping to
accomplish: offering a high-quality comedy show for acts and audiences who need to wake up early the next morning to function as parents and professionals, just as they do.
In Bed By Ten’s monthly performances, typically held on Wednesdays, start at 7 p.m. and run approximately 90 minutes. The shows usually feature four or five acts, with Frodyma or Alltop hosting and offering comedic interludes.
The July show, for example, hosted by Frodyma, opened with improv trio Pickleback followed by Meg Johns, a Downers Grove-based comedian and mother of two, who performed a character bit about the fictional Carlotta J. Sugarfield attending a school board meeting to propose revised titles to classic children’s picture books.
Next in the lineup was The Assemblers, an improv group composed of Alltop and four male improvisers. After a brief intermission, stand-up comedian Joanna Clark took the stage, and – as has been the case for all of the In Bed By Ten shows to date – The Coven served as the “house closer,” Alltop said.
The Coven, an all-female improv group, includes Alltop, Frodyma, Johns, and a few other friends from their early days performing at The Annoyance Theatre. Frodyma said, “There used to be a lot more of us, but half moved to Los Angeles.”
The Coven members’ friendships solidified when The Annoyance closed for a year to relocate. They started a brunch group to stay connected and have since taken multiple trips together.
The Coven attributes its successful improvisation onstage to the close relationships the members have forged offstage. “We’re comfortable performing, but first and foremost we’re comfortable with each other,” Frodyma said.
Alltop added that because the members know each other so well, they can “get on stage without warming up or rehearsing,” even if they have not recently performed together.
Their comfort with one another also contributes to the risks they are willing to take during performances. “We know each other too well for anything to be off the table,” Johns said.
Alltop said. “If not, we might tighten things up a bit.”
The comedians garnered the skills to easily adapt through years of studying and performing improv. Additionally, both Alltop and Johns teach improv one night per week through The Annoyance, and they apply the best practices they teach to their own onstage work.
Their advice for those wishing to try improv: “observe different forms and experiences first,” recommended Alltop.
Accordingly, their shows may contain “some crass language or content,” Frodyma said. Although In Bed By Ten ends before some children’s bedtimes, “most of the time it’s not child appropriate.”
The show “can get edgy, but that’s not our main goal,” Frodyma clarified. In Bed By Ten’s performers read the room to determine how dark or offensive to get. “If the audience laughs at the first blue thing we say, they’ve fed the well,”
“Chicago is such a vibrant comedy scene with so many options, consider studying somewhere,” Johns added. “That said, everybody has a point of view that is interesting to share, even without formal training.”
In Bed By Ten’s next show is Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Tivoli Bowl ($10 cover charge). A larger format show is scheduled for Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. at Downers Grove’s Moose Lodge. A $10 admission fee at the door will go toward supporting the charitable work of Downers Grove Women of the Moose (WOTM). For more information, follow @inbed_ byten on Instagram.
“As long as it’s a comedy act, we’re open to it.”
– BRIDGET FRODYMA, IN BED BY TEN CO-PRODUCERCOMEDIAN MEG JOHNS PERFORMS A CHARACTER BIT DURING AN IN BED BY TEN SHOW.
“We just had our first experience selling a house and Mary was just the best. She was very thorough in explaining everything that was required by us, she listened to our concerns and what we wanted in terms of dates for listing and closing. She had very good people working with her (the photographer, her recommended attorney). Mary has a lot of experience and she answered all of our questions very promptly. Her knowledge of the market, the pricing of our house, the handling of all of the showings and offer, everything was done well, and we couldn’t be happier with the end result. I would highly recommend Mary!”
Downers Grove Home Seller
The 1860s gold rush put Arizona on the map. Subsequent discoveries of silver and copper in the decades that followed brought more fortune-seekers. By the 20s, Route 66 offered a direct path out there, dotted with convenient stopping-off points. But it was the mainstreaming of air conditioning for residential use in the 50s that sealed the deal.
That did it! Vacationers discovered the American Southwest and have never looked back.
We’re stunned by its seemingly endless big skies and enchanted by its barren and sometimes hilly landscape, broken up by hundreds of species of bizarrely-shaped cactus. Come enjoy endless sunny days and cool, starry nights.
BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
For almost a hundred years, this worldclass desert oasis has been a playground for the most influential people. It’s a setting for memorable experiences. Check in to see how the upper crust relaxes.
Elegance has always been at the forefront. Since 1929, it’s been the place elites go to hide in plain sight. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself expecting to see Clark Gable and Cary Grant
discussing a silver screen collaboration over Tequila Sunrises at The Spire Bar.
The resort was the brainchild of Chicago-born brothers, Warren and Charles McArthur. They hoped to lure guests from the Midwest to the desert in their quest to make Arizona a vacation destination. The stock market crashed just a half year after it opened, an event that forced the sale of the resort to chewing gum mogul, William J Wrigley, one of the hotel’s original investors.
Frank Lloyd Wright was paid $10,000 for the use of his patented, iconic, block design. To this day, the Prairie Style palace pays tribute to the architect at every turn. The long, linear, and wide open spaces that came to be Wright’s calling card lead on to light-filled atriums dominated by arches and fireplaces. Outside, enjoy immaculately kept gardens and grounds.
Now a Waldorf Astoria property, The Biltmore is an historic landmark with an eye toward cool sophistication after recent renovations upwards of $100 million. Now, with 7 pools and 3 restaurants of varied menus for anything from the causal to the gourmet palate, it’s a place that makes it easy to take it easy!
“Taliesin West is a look over the rim of the world,” Frank Lloyd Wright once said of his winter home and school, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s easy to understand the feeling behind the sentiment when one visits the Scottsdale complex- built over many years- by the master architect and his apprentices.
Wright purchased hundreds of acres in Scottsdale’s rural foothills to create his utopia- an homage to the vastness and wild beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. His vision of a close-to-nature-environment in which to train his students resulted in low-to-the earth buildings crafted from redwood, sand, and stone. Even the artwork and mosaics contain local desert materials.
In addition to his office and private home, the compound constantly expanded to include drafting studios, a dining hall, workshops, theaters and apprentice residences. The form-overfunction philosophy he garnered while studying under Louis Sullivan is still evident.
For a day trip from the Phoenix/ Scottsdale area, check out Sedona. Popularized by American Western films, it is now known for its mild cli-
mate, vibrant arts community, and endless offerings of outdoor pursuits. Exotic red rock formations and sculpted cliffs create a seemingly endless backdrop of geological monuments different from anywhere else on earth. While some come for the world-class spas or alternative healing options, locals know you don’t have to try hard to experience the special energy that surrounds the area.
For an up-close-and-personal look at these giant rocks, check out Red Rock State Park. A trek through the park is the best way to get to know it, although driving is also possible. 400 miles of trails offer anyone, from the novice to experienced hiker, a chance to see the rock monuments up close.
While you’re in the area, check out the unique Chapel of the Holy Cross, built 250 feet atop the red rocks in the mid1950s. It has been called one of the ten most beautiful churches in the world by Architectural Digest.
A year-round calendar of arts and cultural events, 80 art galleries, and international film and wine festivals- peppered with endless nights stargazing some of the world’s brightest stars- make Sedona a worthy stop on your trip.
If you find yourself thirsty in the desert climate, former Chicagoan and Director of AnalogXperiences, Chris Henderson, can help. This Scottsdale-based back-
yard-to-bar mixologist offers groups an opportunity to learn how to craft their own designer cocktails. Henderson comes to you to do a hands-on demonstration.
For a flat fee, he shows groups how to make 3 different cocktails. He works with the host of the event ahead of time to learn their palate, then advises the client which alcoholic ingredients to buy. Henderson supplies the glassware, simple syrups he makes from local ingredients, and mixers, such as freshly squeezed grapefruit juice from his backyard fruit trees.
A former bartender himself, Henderson is well-versed in which alcohol works with certain mixers and what will accentuate flavors. “To me, pairing alcohol with mixers is kind of like a fun science experiment!” Henderson said. “There are so many different variables to work with. I love helping people create something beautiful that is also a facilitator of conversation.”
For his part, Henderson prefers mezcal- tequila’s smoky, not-as-wellknown cousin- also distilled from the agave plant. “People like mezcal because it’s much less hangover-inducing,” he opines. “It’s made from a number of different plants, each of which has a distinct flavor profile. It’s fun to create various cocktails with it.” Find Henderson on Instagram, @ AnalogXperiences.
Maxx and Jack Klein take the helm of their family’s business
BY MAUREEN CALLAHANAiroom has always been a family affair. Maxx and Jack Klein are the third generation to run this family business. Having grown up in a household that celebrated craftsmanship and design, they are right where they belong- at the forefront of the company’s visionary team.
While they have completed over 500 projects in town, their design studio, located at 36 S Washington, is a brandnew space. It’s the perfect place to get started on your new home, addition, or remodel. The Klein brothers see no design element as out of their client’s reach. They can pivot or include any style in any build, including historic homes. Their ability is highlighted in the creative ideas they bring to life. From a basement driving range, to a state-of-the art home theater, to a yearround outdoor kitchen, literally anything is possible. If you can dream it, they can build it.
Airoom is all about delivering that dream through fostering a one-to-one relationship with each and every client.
“The most important time spent with our clients is listening to them and understanding their vision,” said Jack. The brothers form a professional bond with clients rooted in Airoom’s core values of trust, open-communication, and genuine concern. “Often, people have a vision in their minds but aren’t able to think it through in their existing space. That’s where we come in.” Maxx and Jack enjoy taking a client’s idea and getting it down to a mico-level of images, visualizations, renderings, and plans. They know the design they show a client is exactly what the finished space will look like. Many sets of
eyes follow each project through to completion, ensuring efficiency from A-Z.
“We’re a service industry at heart,” Maxx believes. “If we’re going to hang our name on it, we want it to be the best possible product.”
Over 5,000 smiles have been transformed at Downers Grove Orthodontics since 2007 by Dr. Meena Balakrishnan. Congenially referred to as Dr. B. by her patients, she has created a patient-centric orthodontic practice that is affordable. She is passionate about orthodontic care being within reach of everyone.
"Our practice exists in a category of one," says Dr. B. "I take pride in our dedicated staff and myself to provide all of our patients with the latest orthodontic technology while creating a comfortable and relaxed environment."
Currently a resident of Hinsdale and proud mother of two boys and wife to Dr. Balu Natarajan, Dr. B. graduated as valedictorian from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed her orthodontic residency and her Masters in Oral Science at the University of Illinois Chicago.
“My husband went to high school at Downers Grove North, and we love being part of this community. It is important to me to deliver high quality, accessible care to the people that mean so much to us.”
Dr. Balakrishnan is a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a national dental honor society, the American Association of Orthodontists, and the Midwest Society of Orthodontists. She has held faculty positions in several countries and has spoken at national and international conferences.
She currently gives back by teaching dental students and orthodontic residents at the University of Illinois-Chicago, College of Dentistry.
And the list goes on. In fact, she is a published author as well. Her book "Grin and Wear It: The In-Depth Guide to Your Child's Orthodontic Care" offers a mandatory checklist of things to consider before starting orthodontic treatment. But despite her busy professional schedule, Dr. B. also finds time outside the office to pursue her passions. She is a certi-
fied meditation and yoga instructor as well as a teacher for the Art of Living Foundation, the largest volunteer non-profit organization in the world. She is also an avid skier.
How does she balance it all? “A truly great smile reflects the balance of mind, body, and spirit. That is a big reason why I teach meditation and yoga. I do everything I can to practice what I preach.”
Visit downersgroveorthodontics.com for more information ■
Esplanade Dental Care in Downers Grove combines a team approach with a patient-centered care philosophy, advanced specialty training, and state-of-the-art technology. The result? A compassionate touch to make each patient experience comfortable and convenient. "We do not rush our appointments," said Dr. Sherif Albert. "We have meaningful conversations with patients and learn about their lives.” Recently a patient brought Dr. Albert a haul of fresh vegetables from his local farm. “Having a relationship like that is exceptionally rewarding,” he said.
Dr. Christine Snow and Dr. Amy Feller round out the trio of doctors at Esplanade Dental Care. The team has a unique bond. Dr. Albert and Dr. Snow are siblings who met Dr. Feller through a continuing education study club nearly a decade ago. Together, they offer their patients the latest in 3d technology, Invisalign, veneer, and zoom whitening options; they also help educate them on their financial and dental benefits.
Practicing dentistry is a family affair. Dr. Albert’s wife, Dr. Mira Albert, founded Brush Pediatric Dentistry in Hinsdale in 2011. Between Esplanade Dental Care, Brush Pediatric, and Atrium Family Dental in New Lenox, IL, they have the opportunity to treat patients and run operations of all three
practices. “I love the combination of patient interaction, the art of dentistry, and the entrepreneurial side of running three businesses with my wife.” Their practices boast nearly 100 years of combined experience in general cosmetic dentistry and pediatric dentistry.
Outside the office, the Esplanade Dental Care team spends a lot of time vacationing together in Michigan with their families. And as fall approaches with NCAA football, it is an especially interesting time in the Albert household. Dr. Albert attended dental school at Ohio State University, whereas his wife graduated from the University of Michigan. "Come game day, there is an intense rivalry between the two of us,” he said. ■
Opening Shine Pediatric Dentistry in 2019 in Downers Grove was a dream come true for Dr. Lynse Briney. As a resident of the community, she has the opportunity to treat and improve the lives of children every day from her hometown and beyond. “I love working with kids and consider it a privilege to help
change children’s minds about going to the dentist,” she said.
Dr. Briney grew up in central Illinois and received her undergraduate degree from Iowa State University. Early in her career, she knew working with children was a priority. After receiving her D.D.S. degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, she
returned to complete her Pediatric Dental Residency while concurrently completing a Masters of Science program in Oral Biology.
Before calling Downers Grove home, Dr. Briney served many communities throughout Chicago, including being an Oral Health Director of a nonprofit organization. A member of several organizations at the local, state, and national levels, including a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, she has committed to a lifetime of learning to provide her pediatric dental patients with the best dental care.
Recently, Dr. Lexi Nash joined the Shine Pediatric Dentistry team. As Chief Resident at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, she gained robust experience caring for children. “Together as a team, we can continue our mission to encourage every pediatric patient to be their ‘brightest self’ with a healthy and beautiful smile,” Dr. Briney said.
Dr. Briney is as committed to the community as she is to her patients. She is a member of the Downers Grove Junior Women's Club and supports the efforts of local community schools and non-profits. When not working, she can be found traveling or on the sports field with her husband and two boys.
Visit shinekidsdg.com for more information ■
Established in 2019, SmilesHUB has been a labor of love between Dr. Sushant Dhadwal and Dr. Ritu Dhadwal for the last four years. Their private practice has steadily grown as patients have gained their trust from family-focused dental care to advancead smile makeover treatments with cosmetic and implant dentistry. "We know going to a dentist can be scary for many people, and our unwavering commitment to gain patient trust, open communication, and treating patients with empathy has resulted in long-lasting relationships with our patients," said Dr. Ritu.
Dr. Sushant and Dr. Ritu were born and raised in India, where they met in high school. Their journey together continued as they finished dental school and began to practice in India. After marriage and a brief stop in Canada, they were both accepted to the Advanced Standing Program at New York University College of Dentistry for internationally trained dentists who seek to practice dentistry in the United States. Dr. Sushant said, "We studied and took exams together, and proudly both graduated with honors from the program."
Fast forward ten years, and after residency and continued education programs and associateships, the duo remains passionate and devoted to staying on the leading edge of dentistry, investing hundreds of hours
into ongoing training. Their hard work has paid off. Dr. Ritu said, "We now have our own private practice; we can provide state-of-the-art care with an investment in the latest technologies that create a personalized experience we would want for our very own family or loved ones."
Dr. Sushant recently achieved his master's in implant dentistry through The International Dental Implant Associa-
tion. Dr. Ritu continues her education at the renowned Kois Center, dedicated to evidence-based dental teaching and treatments. Beyond serving patients together, they enjoy spending time with their daughter Arisha and love traveling and exploring new places and cultures. Visit thesmileshub.com
Six and a half decades later, Chicagoans still commemorate Our Lady of the Angels school fire
BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
The first day of December ushers in the holiday season. It’s a promise of happiness and celebration. But it’s also the day that Chicagoans pause to honor the memory of 92 children and three nuns who perished in a fire at Our Lady of the Angels School (OLAS) on the city’s near west side. The day was December 1st, 1958. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the day Chicago cried- one of the darkest days in our city’s history. Firstgrader Michael Mason went on to eventually become a Lieutenant in the Downers Grove Fire Department. He escaped the school as it was burning.
Six and a half decades later, Lieutenant Mason recounted his memories of one of the deadliest fires in American history with Contributing Editor Maureen Callahan:
People always ask if I became a firefighter because of the [Our Lady of the Angels School] fire. To be honest, in the beginning, the answer was ‘no.’ After I got into the fire service, however, I realized more and more what that school fire meant to firefighters. I came to appreciate the aftermath of that school fire and the effect it had on many things.
I still have some recollection of that Friday afternoon. I was in first grade. It
was almost time for the school day to end. My classmates and I sensed something was wrong because the nuns were scurrying around nervously. Some kids said they smelled smoke, but nobody in my class saw anything. After the fire was investigated, we learned the path it took. We figured out that it had been burning in the ceiling above our heads, but we didn’t know. The nun that taught us rounded us up to go outside, but she didn’t have us get our coats. It was freezing outside that day.
As soon as we exited the building, the smell of smoke and burning wood was overpowering. There was mass chaos. People were screaming. Glass shattered. Parents in the neigh-
borhood saw the footage on TV and ran to the school to try to find their children. There were people running everywhere, shouting their kids’ names, trying desperately to locate them from the ground outside their classrooms.
I heard a loud banging noise and turned to see the firemen trying to break through a wrought iron fence outside the school. It was later learned that their arrival was delayed due to an erroneous school address given to the first responders by the person who initially called in the emergency. Meanwhile, smoke poured out of the building. I saw a fireman running with a little girl thrown over his shoulder.
People brought ladders from their home garages and put them up to classroom windows. Kids jumped from second-story windows- some to their death and some to lifelong injuries. Inside, students piled up in front of classroom windowsills as they climbed over one another in an effort to escape.
Firemen recounted having to reach far down inside the windows to grab the children- mostly boys because their belt buckles gave them something to grab.
They pulled them out a few at a time and ran them down the ladders. As the fire raged hotter and hotter, they saw time running out and began dropping the children off the ladders as soon as they pulled them out, reasoning that injury was better than death. The near west side was a heavily Italian
grandmother, who watched my sister and me during the day, was in her rocking chair with her rosary in her hands, watching the footage on TV. Not long after, my mom raced in the door and grabbed me. I still remember how hard she hugged me.
People always call me a survivor, but I usually just say I was a witness. There are actual survivors with much worse memories than mine. Another survivor who became the Fire Chief of Elgin was in the north wing, which took the initial brunt of the fire. Those were the third and fifth-grade classrooms- they got the worst of it. He remembers hitting the ground and crawling. He barely made it out. Many of the kids in that wing didn’t make it.
I don’t think anybody in the city slept that night, but definitely not in my neighborhood. You could hear parents wailing in their houses from the street. The smell of smoke was heavy in the air, and sirens continued all night as the firefighters fought the raging flames.
The next day was Saturday, and the weather was warmer. I wanted to play outside. I remember walking down Springfield Avenue, not being able to find my playmates. A friend of mine lived in the apartment above me. I never saw him again. He just wasn’t there anymore. I found out years later he died in the fire.
neighborhood at the time. Families were very close. Neighbors who lived adjacent to the school opened their doors to pull children inside to shield them from the horrific vision.
I walked to school every day with my cousins. That day, I went to our usual meeting place in front of the convent, but they weren’t there. There were so many people. It was bedlam! An elderly man picked me up so I could see what was going on. I’m honestly not sure how I got home that day, but I never found my cousins. When I got back to my family’s apartment, my
Ninety-two children from within a mile and a half radius died the day OLAS burned down. Grief hung in the air. The neighborhood fell apart. Nobody knew what to say to one another, so they didn’t say anything. The community went into a terrible depression.
Our Lady Help of Christians- the next Catholic school over from OLAS- put their own students on a special schedule and took in a bunch of OLAS kids. Others were farmed out to public schools while they waited for the new school to be built. It took two years. My
“After I got into the fire service, I realized more and more the significance the [Our Lady of the Angels school] fire had to fire fighters. A lot changed after that fire.”
-LIEUTENANT MICHAEL MASON, DOWNERS GROVE FIRE DEPARTMENT, RETIRED, AND OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS SCHOOL FIRE SURVIVOR92 STUDENTS AND THREE NUNS PERISHED IN ONE OF AMERICA'S DEADLIEST SCHOOL FIRES.
family hung around for a few more years. By that time, a bunch of families had moved out to Elmwood Park. They couldn’t bear to stay in the neighborhood with all those memories. That’s what my family did after I finished sixth grade.
The really weird thing was that nobody in the school, or the neighborhood, talked about the fire. When the new OLAS school was built, there was no monument, no plaque- nothing to commemorate the lives lost in the fire. The nuns never mentioned it again. For many years on December 1st, Holy
many schools of the day, had much highly varnished wood that was very flammable. Safer building materials became a requirement for public buildings. Previous to the code, there was often no way to tell if a fire was brewing until it was visible. Alarms for early detection, sprinkler systems, and fire doors and windows became mandatory. Windowsill heights may not exceed 44 inches off the floor, so they may be easily egressed in case of fire. There cannot be any locked gates; everything must be accessible to emergency personnel.
Although Mason believes he did not necessarily become a firefighter because of this tragic childhood event, he now realizes that it somehow helped steer his career. In his early twenties, he lived as a jazz musician in the city. “A few of my buddies were with the Chicago Fire Department (CFD),” said Mason. “They got me to ride along on a few of their calls. They always thought I would make a good firefighter, but I thought they were nuts,” he laughed.
All at once, Mason “was hooked.” He began studying to be a medic in the late 70s and entered Boston’s Fire Academy, as CFD was on strike during the Jane Burn administration. After graduation, he moved back to the area when a position became available in Downers Grove.
Mason now has 42 years of fire service under his belt. The majority of this experience was in the actual fighting of fires, from which he is now retired. But he is still in the game. Some years back, he founded RICO Fire and Rescue Incorporated. The acronym stands for Rapid Intervention Company Operations. Put simply, it’s a class that teaches firefighters maneuvers and techniques on how to rescue themselves during fires and collapses. “I offer the class during the week of 9/11 every year because of that tragic event,” said Mason. “Firefighters come from all over the world to learn this.”
Also an award-winning jazz musician, Mason collaborated with several other musicians to create Angels of Fire, a CD of music that commemorates the OLAS fire, told through a series of a dozen songs. All proceeds benefit I Am Me Camp (formerly known as Burn Camp), the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance’s children’s summer camp for fire survivors.
“Five survivors of the OLAS fire went on to become firemen,” said Mason. “I don’t think I was necessarily influenced by the fire to join the fire service, but later, I think I indirectly came to know why I went down this road and then used it as a purpose,” Mason believes.
Family Church in Roosevelt Square- the city’s Fire Department Parish- held a mass for survivors of the OLAS school fire. For years, I attended it with my firemen buddies from Chicago, but after a while, I stopped going. I had to move on.
Out of the ashes of this mind-numbing disaster, however, rose a series of improvements for school designs and fire safety- Life Safety Code 101. These improvements were implemented not only for school buildings but also for public buildings.
The new code changed the materials of which schools are built. OLAS, like
BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
The open road. It’s still the holy grail of travel. Route 66 was the first road that made the offer back in 1923. And millions of Americans accepted. Mr Ford had introduced his Model-T over a decade earlier. Americans had the vision to go west. Now they had a way to get there.
“If you ever plan to motor west, travel my way, take the highway that is best. Get your kicks on Route Sixty-Six,” Bobby Troup penned as he traveled with his wife, Cynthia, to California in the 40s. They drove cross-country to L.A. to pursue his dream of becoming a Hollywood writer. Ironically, the bestknown success of his career came out of that car ride. Nat King Cole got his ear around it, and the rest was history.
(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 is one of the most well-covered songs in music, with hundreds of versions recorded by various artists over the years. It might be because the idea of a cross-country road trip-despite the convenience of air or rail travel- still appeals to many. Packing up the car and hitting the pavement offers us
the chance to feel in charge of our own destiny. And destination.
Route 66 was a road paved by pioneers that attracted discoverers, dreamers, adventurers, and risk-takers. It was a path that appealed to anyone looking for a change- from those wanting to leave the Depression and Dustbowl in the rear-view mirror- to family vacationers. They packed up their cars and headed west across eight states and three time zones.
Route 66 was the main artery running through the heart of America. It followed a diagonal path that combined existing local, state, and national roads. At that time, most roads were trails blazed by early settlers on their way west.
Stretching from the corner of Jackson and Michigan in Chicago all the way to the Santa Monica Pier, the route spanned 2,248 miles. In between, travelers saw Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. It was a bumpy journey at first, as the highway was not fully paved until the late 30s.
Word got out about the shortest and most scenic cross-country route. Businesses opened to serve the needs of passersby. Route 66 became America’s Main Street. Small townsonce considered the middle of nowhere- became somewhere.
Along the way, quirky/whimsical landmarks became photo-ops. Over time, they morphed into Route 66 icons. Some still remain:
The Paul Bunyan Muffler Man (Atlanta, IL), a 19-ft-tall fiberglass sculpture of the character, still holds a gigantic hotdog in place of an ax. The Blue Whale (Catoosa, OK), an impressive replica of a giant mammal comprised of tons of rock, sand, and pipe, along with gallons upon gallons of blue paint, makes Ol’ Blue one of the most photographed spots on the journey.
But there are more! The Golden Driller (Tulsa, OK) is 43,500 pounds of concrete and plaster. The 75-ft statue is a steel-framed depiction of an oil worker. It’s also the sixth-tallest statue in the United States.
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX) features ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs artistically buried nose-first in the dirt at the same angles as the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Prepare to be amazed at Elmer’s Long Bottle Tree Ranch (Oro Grande, CA). Elmer and his father collected memorabilia (read: trash), found over decades on father and son treasure treks in the desert. The results are displayed here. Nearly 200 bottles glimmer in different colors, arranged like a glass forest. You’ll also find vintage gas pumps, junked cars, and figures sculpted from antique signs.
How about the classic roadside momand-pop diners that offered house specialties like prize-winning lemon méringue pie? Yep, they’re around. You just have to know where to look.
The Cozy Dog Drive Inn (Springfield, IL), has Route 66 written all over it. It’s the home of the corn dog on a stick, and they want you to remember it! The U-Drop Inn Café (Shamrock, TX) was the first commercial business that opened after the pavers rolled through. Patrons likely weren’t picky, as it was the only eating establishment within 100 miles at the time. But if you don’t like their menu, stay on the road until the MidPoint Café (Adrian, TX).
If you’re thirsty, stop into The World Famous Sultana Bar (Sultana, AZ).
A former speakeasy during Prohibition, there’s a trapdoor that leads to underground tunnels that held an opium den.
And what happened to the one-floor motels with neon ‘vacancy’ signs that beckon to weary travelers? Look no further than the Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, AZ). Try not to be too disappointed that they’re actually tepees, not wigwams. Or, for a genuine Route 66, 12-unit, L-shaped motel experience, check into The Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari, NM).
Over the decades, attitudes about vacation began to change. In the mid-1900s, a major part of any trip was seeing the sights along the way. Single-destination travel via airplane became more appealing to many people. The road began to fall into disrepair. By 1956, Eisenhower signed the Federal Highway Act, which provided funds to construct a 41,000-mile network of interstates. These new highways rapidly became the preferred roads.
Many businesses along Route 66 were shuttered. Board by board and sign by
sign, they fell apart. Entire communities were abandoned and became ghost towns. Route 66 was removed from road maps in the mid-80s. While it is no longer an official highway, a trip across the country on the Mother Road is still possible. The places left behind are waiting to be found.
If you decide to go looking for this bit of American folklore, however, bear in mind that sections of the original road are completely gone. The highway has been realigned several times, in varying degrees- from sections that have completely changed direction to the pavement that has shifted less than a block.
The best-preserved parts of the old route remain between Springfield, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, where you might still see a real-life cowboy or two. Arizona’s segments west of Seligman and the Oatman Highway through the state’s Black Hills are the best spots to go back in time.
A trek across this great country is not something you’ll soon forget. Route 66 is the one to take for those seeking to understand America for themselves.
Going to Chicago Blues (Count Basie)
On the Road Again (Willie Nelson)
This Land is Your Land (Woodie Guthrie)
Oklahoma Sunshine (Waylon Jennings)
Deep in the Heart of Texas (Ray Charles)
Albuquerque (Neil Young)
Dancin’ Across the USA (Lindsey Buckingham, from National Lampoon’s Vacation Movies)
Take It Easy (The Eagles-it mentions the corner in Winslow, AZ, that is a stop on the route)
The Painted Desert (10,000 Maniacs)
King of the Road (Roger Miller)
California Dreaming (The Mamas & The Papas)
(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 (Nat King Cole or John Mayer versions)
Diwali reminds us to be a light to darkness
As the leaves turn, thousands of families in the western suburbs celebrate a five-day festival every fall. Diwali, the festival of lights, may encompass diverse traditions and customs by celebrants, but there are a few common themes. Curious about this festival? Read on for some answers to some common questions about this holiday.
Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people around the world. It is one of the most significant and widely observed festivals in India and various other countries where Hindu communities reside. The
BY MAUREEN CALLAHANfestival of Diwali has multiple cultural, religious, and spiritual meanings, but the most common significance is the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and the human ability to overcome. It is the celebration of the
WHAT DOES THE WORD DIWALI MEAN?
Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which literally means ‘row of lights.’
DOES THE FESTIVAL FALL ON THE SAME DAY EVERY YEAR?
affirmation that light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome the light. It has been celebrated over 2,500 years by more than a billion people across faiths.
Diwali is celebrated over a period of five days, usually in October or November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. The celebration peaks on the third day with the principal celebration of Diwali (Sunday, November 12 this year).
WHY IS IT CALLED THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS?
One of the most iconic aspects of Diwali is the illumination of homes and public
“ The kids get the best of both worlds!”
-DR. MONICA PATADIA ON KEEPING HER FAMILY'S OUTDOOR LIGHTS FOR DIWALI UP THROUGH THE CHRISTMAS SEASON
Dr. Monica Patadia of Burr Ridge shares her family’s traditions during the festival of lights.
• The Patadia family celebrates with a lot of light. We usually hang outdoor lights for Diwali and then keep the lights up to celebrate Christmas as well. The kids get the best of both worlds!
• We decorate the inside of our home with colorful lights known as clay diyas, which are lit during prayers, rituals, and ceremonies. These lights are often permanent in houses and temples. The glow of a diya light represents knowledge, enlightenment, wisdom, and prosperity. Many homes light 13 such lights, as this is the number of diyas that must be lit for good health and prosperity. It is also believed that the 13 diyas protect against negative energies and bad spirits.
• Rangoli, uncooked, powdered rice, is also part of our festive décor. It is a type of art popular in India that is often drawn on the ground or sidewalk in front of the home. The symmetry of the designs symbolizes prosperity, growth, and luck. The purpose of Rangoli is to welcome and attract Hindu gods to the household. Rangoli also purifies the atmosphere around a home and summons a particular deity.
• We perform a religious prayer known as a Puja, which usually consists of making an offering of light, flowers, water, or food to an image of a god.
• We also wear traditional West Indian clothing and get together with family and friends with plentiful food and desserts.
spaces with oil lamps, candles, electric lights, and decorative lanterns. The lighting signifies the victory of light and knowledge, symbolizing the removal of darkness and ignorance from our lives. Fireworks are also a common part of Diwali celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere. People burst crackers, light fireworks, and celebrate with joy and enthusiasm.
Diwali has different religious significance in various parts of India. In some regions, it marks the return of Lord Rama, an avatar of the god Vishnu, to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. In other regions, it celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Diwali is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. People clean and decorate their homes to welcome her blessings, and it is believed that she visits and blesses clean and well-lit households.
Hamara Parivar was formed in 2015 by friends from the western suburbs of Chicago who all have young children. As children, they grew up going to garbas and learning about the culture from their parents. As parents today, they now aspire to share similar experiences they had as young children. The 9th Annual Garba & Raas will occur at The Community House in Hinsdale on Saturday, October 14. Visit https:// hamaraparivar2015.wixsite.com/ourfamily for more information
In the last few years, the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club (OBBTC) has made tremendous progress in becoming a viable entity. One real bright spot has been the tennis programming. Simply put, it has become a tennis player’s dream.
To start with, the club offers Har-Tru clay courts, which are known for several features. These courts are easier on the body, reducing the risk of injury, and help players develop an all-around court game because of the slower pace of the ball. They also are environmentally friendly. At Oak Brook, eight individual tennis courts are laid out for a private, luxurious feeling.
Then, there are several membership options available. These include an annual family fee for the club of $900 for residents ($1,600 for non-residents) for unlimited pool and tennis usage. Tennis-only memberships range from $170 to $500 for the season from midApril to mid-November.
Finally, there is Jim Lezatte, Head Tennis Professional. He oversees tennis operations, setting court times, and maintaining the courts. He runs men, women, and co-ed programs. Above all, he teaches tennis.
Lezatte has led the tennis program at OBBTC since 2019. His name is familiar throughout south-central DuPage County. For 21 years prior, he was a professional coach at the
Hinsdale Racquet Club. He is a United States Professional Tennis Association member with a Safe Place certification. Hinsdale Magazine Group interviewed Lezatte and several tennis players who have taken lessons from him. They ranged in age from six to their 70s, and they praised his teaching techniques and his enthusiasm for the game.
Karen Mosquera and Lloyd Schooley of Oak Brook had been away from tennis for a while. Each commented that Lezatte’s way of understanding their current game - and giving proper instruction - translated to better playing and enjoyment of the game again. Manish Shah, also of Oak Brook, said, “Jim’s enthusiasm got 16 of us signed up for doubles matches on a regular basis.” Jordan Murphy, Sports Core Manager and a player herself, said, “Person after person raves about his lessons and how excited they are to play the game.”
Elayna Lindstrom came to the courts, saw how Jim treated everyone, and determined that OBBTC was a fit for her. “This is where I want to be. He makes you love the game,” she said. Her husband and two sons have since joined.
Darshika Chhabra followed Lezatte when he came from Hinsdale Racquet Club to OBBTC. She said, “Coach Jim is both a mentor and friend to my three boys.” Her youngest, Vishnu, said, “He pushes me to my limits, but he is a nice person, and I know he has my best interests at heart.”
“I am passionate about the game of tennis. My interest was sparked by watching Andre Agassi and his passion for the game,” Lezatte said. “My favorite aspect of coaching is the instant a player understands what is being taught, and I can see them grasp the concept completely.” ■
“My interest was sparked by watching Andre Agassi and the passion he had for the game.”
-JIM LEZATTE, OAK BROOK BATH & TENNIS PRO COACH
