West Suburban Living May 2017



BEAUTIFUL BATHS



HOT NEW RESTAURANTS



SPOTLIGHT ON GLEN ELLYN

MAY 2017 WEST

TOP TOWNS

SUBURBAN LIVING • TOP

in the western suburbs

TOWNS

Best Schools, Least Crime, Highest Home Values and More

VOL. 22 • NUMBER

MAY 2017 $3.95

www.westsuburbanliving.net

05

5

Q&A

WITH THE BUDGET SAVVY TRAVELERS LOCAL GLOBETROTTERS EXTRAORDINAIRE

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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Managing Editor | Anne Knudsen Assistant Editor | Sarah Astra Art Director | Rachel Switall Contributing Writers Laurie Barton, Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Erin Chan Ding, Kathy Johns, Sara Pearsaul Vice, Lynn Petrak, Lisa Sloan, Michele Weldon and Tom Witom Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Accounting Jennifer Cozette Circulation Coordinator Ken Cozette Reader Advisory Board Laurie Barton (Glen Ellyn) Linda Cassidy (Campton Hills) Mary Ellen Coombs (Wheaton), Joan Hoff (Elmhurst) M Grace Grzanek (Batavia), Liz Hunka (Wheaton) Nancy Jensen (Batavia), Holly Jordan (Wheaton) Mary Ellen Kastenholz (Western Springs) Kate Kirkpatrick (Naperville) Molly Livermore (St. Charles) Pamela Peterson (Burr Ridge) Diana Santos (Woodridge), Darla Scheidt (Darien) Jean Stawarz (Oak Brook) Marilyn Straub Garazin (Winfield) West Suburban Living is a publication of C2 Publishing, Inc. 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 630.834.4995 / 630.834.4996 (fax) wsl@westsuburbanliving.net subscriptions@westsuburbanliving.net www.westsuburbanliving.net No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of C2 Publishing, Inc. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of West Suburban Living or its parent company.

West Suburban Living (Vol. 22, No. 5 MAY 2017; ISSN No. 1532-6705) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/December issues (10 times a year) by C2 Publishing, Inc., 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162, 630 834-4995, fax 630 834-4996. Periodicals postage paid at Elmhurst, Illinois and additional mailing offices.

Subscriptions: 1 year $15; 2 years $24; 3 years $32. Single copy $3.95; back issues, as available, $7. West Suburban Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to West Suburban Living Magazine, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Printed in USA. 4 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Contents |

May

|

2017

Photo courtesy of LaMantia Design & Remodeling

West Suburban Living

Home&Garden

48

BEAUTIFUL BATHS

54

Classy and Sassy CONTAINERS

Five shining examples of stylish and soothing retreats

Thrillers, fillers and spillers in bloom

58

Photo courtesy of Scentimental Gardens

48

Health ADULT ADHD

When the wild child grows up

Town Focus

62

GLEN ELLYN

Small town charm in the heart of DuPage County

ON THE COVER

 Features 40

54

Photos clockwise from upper left, the Naperville Riverwalk, downtown Western Springs, downtown Wheaton, and downtown Hinsdale

TOP TOWNS In THE WESTERN SUBURBS From good schools and high home values, to low crime rates and vibrant downtowns, a look at a cross-section of attributes that together make some west suburban communities especially attractive places in which to live and/or work.

6 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Departments May

|

2017

Photo courtesy of Harry and Audrey Lesner

|

18

Photo courtesy of Seared

Photo courtesy of Fox Valley Park District

West Suburban Living

27

69 Around the Towns

Perspectives

10

FOREWORD

24

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

80

Traveling abroad offers a real world education and expanded horizons.

14

By The Numbers

18

Q&A

Former principal turned school board member sticks to his students-first principles LAST WORD

How is it that our minds often inexplicably go blank, even when meeting longtime friends?

22

78

westsuburbanliving.net The go-to site for the Best of the Western Suburbs at your fingertips!

Intriguing numerical tidbits

with The Budget Savvy Travelers, Audrey and Harry Lesner of Willowbrook

Dining

70

REVIEW: Maize + Mash in Glen Ellyn

72

REVIEW: Reel Club in Oak Brook

69

NEW RESTAURANTS

76

CHEERS

LOCAL AUTHORS

New book releases from west suburban writers SCENE & SEEN

A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events

Style&Fashion

16

STOPS & SHOPS

New stores and hidden gems

Out&About

27

Seared Fine Dining in Itasca, Cottage Hill Station in Elmhurst and Barrel House Social in La Grange

The Acid Test: A quest for enhanced flavor and palate-cleansing freshness

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The best in music, theatre and other area events

8 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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editor’s Note Traveling Abroad: A Real-World Education

“As is a tale, so is life: not how long it

I

is, but how good it is, is what matters.”

- Seneca

“The sole meaning of life is to serve humanity.”

- Leo Tolstoy

“Just when I discovered the meaning of life, they changed it.”

- George Carlin

“To give life meaning, one must have a purpose larger than one’s self.”

- Will Durant

“Therefore, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that

is before us.”

- Hebrews 12:1

t’s been a number of years since I traveled abroad very extensively.

Raising kids has a way of reigning in youthful wanderlust and then when you do take trips, seeing the world more often means Disney’s version, not visiting a foreign country. That’s OK, I have fond memories of our family travels.

But I am also incredibly grateful that I had the opportunity to travel overseas when I was younger. Those experiences had a profound impact on my life and significantly influenced many of the perspectives I carry with me to this day.

My initial exposure to a world outside my own was when I went to Europe for several months a few years after I graduated from college. Like a number of other people my age were doing at the time, I donned a backpack, grabbed a copy of Arthur Frommer’s Europe on $10 a Day, and set out for a little adventure. During my travels, I was able to meet my French relatives and, through welcome twists of fate, also got to stay with an Italian family in Rome for several days, and spend a fascinating evening with a group of Czech medical students. I also met fellow travelers from other parts of the U.S. and Canada and from as far away as Australia and New Zealand. Not only did I have a great time, I also quickly learned that not everyone saw the world through the same lens that I did. That “reality check” significantly changed my world view and opened new paths of thinking and understanding.

I was reminded of my youthful travels when editing our Q&A feature on page 18 in which we profile a young couple from Willowbrook who, after saving money for several years, quit their

jobs and took off on a round-the-world trip. It’s now three years later and they are still happily wandering the globe. Their story is a fascinating one and, as you will see, their travels have obviously had a significant effect on their priorities and perspectives as well.

Another article in this issue that struck a particularly resonant chord with me is Michele Weldon’s Last Word column on page 80, “When Names Escape Us.” In her own inimitable way, Michele laments her inability to remember people’s names, even those of longtime friends and neighbors.

I can definitely relate. While I have never been especially good at remembering names, my recall has definitely deteriorated in the last few years. Oddly enough, my overall memory is still very good — I remember plenty of details about people, just not their names. It can be very frustrating.

I remember when I was a summer camp counselor, we had hundreds of kids and it was impossible to remember all their names. So we just called all the boys “Hoss” or “Tiger.” It worked surprisingly well in that environment, but I’m thinking it may not translate well to my current situation.

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue and thanks for being a reader!

Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net 10

MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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THE

AROUND TOWNS |

STOPS & SHOPS

|

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

|

LOCAL AUTHORS

Dinosaurs Alive Brookfield Zoo

Coming May 6

Animatron dinosaur courtesy of Jim Schulz/Chicago Zoological Society; reptile photos courtesy of Build 4 Impact Inc.

Q&A

IGUANA

D

inosaurs roar back to life in Brookfield Zoo’s

by an indoor display of living lizards, including a 6-ft

multi-sensory “Dinos & Dragons” exhibit. Visitors

Komodo dragon. Up-close experiences with a

wander down a winding, tree-lined path and, triggered

crocodile, iguanas, a plumed

by sensors, a huge Triceratops, a Tyrannosaurus Rex,

basilisk, and frilled and bearded

and Chinese Dragons show their claws, swish their tails

lizards help visitors connect today’s

and gnash their teeth in this life-like recreation of the

reptiles with their pre-historic

Jurassic Age. The outdoor thrills are complemented

forebears. May 6 to September 17

FRILLED DRAGON

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 13

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the

By Numbers Photo courtesy of La Grange Pet Parade

71 in ’17

That’s how many years Fido and friends have been strutting their stuff in the annual La Grange Pet Parade. At 9:30 a.m. on June 3rd, 110 pets with owners in tow will make their way along a 1.5 mile route, kicking off at the library.

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, pups of all pedigrees will be at the head of the pack, with a menagerie of rabbits, chicks, ducks, hamsters and more along for the ride. But this parade, which attracts crowds upwards of 10,000, is no one-trick pony. There will also be 30 pet-themed floats, 20 vintage autos, and seven marching bands. Sports team mascots Benny the Bull, Tommy Hawk and Clark the Cub will also be on hand to rally the crowds and make sure everyone has a whale of a time. In two shakes of a lamb’s tail, the parade will end at the high school’s north campus. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the MidAmerica Service Dogs’ Foundation.

$1,440 per month, a spike of 14.2 percent in 2016, is the average apartment rental rate in Elmhurst. That runs counter to the more moderate increases across other west suburban rental markets,

7, 202

which ranged from as low as 0.4 percent in Geneva to 9 percent in Oak Park.

little swimmers enrolled in Metro

The steep increase in Elmhurst’s

Chicago YMCAs across greater

average rental rate is due at least

Chicagoland last year. That’s good

in part to the opening of an upscale,

news in the effort to combat the

192-unit development, Elmhurst 255, where

second-leading cause of death for

renters looking for urban-suburban luxury

kids ages 5 to 14 — drowning. Three

can slap down a cool $4,000 per month

children die from drowning every

for a top-of-the-line, three-bedroom unit.

day, with a total of 63 deaths

2.7 billion

in Cook County alone in 2016.

A surprising 88 percent drown while under adult supervision

gallons is the stormwater runoff capacity

of the Elmhurst Quarry Flood Control Facility, located west of downtown Elmhurst. DuPage County

and 60 percent within 10 feet of safety. While 40 percent of

purchased the vast, sprawling site for $41 million back in 1991 in an ongoing effort to alleviate

Caucasian kids can’t swim, that

flooding from Salt Creek. Floodwaters enter via a 400-ft underground tunnel running below Rt. 83.

goes up to 60 percent among

Once flooding recedes, water in the reservoir is pumped back into Salt Creek.

Hispanics and 70 percent among

With its vertical cliffs and exposed rock strata, the quarry has a deep connection with the history of Elmhurst and the imagination of its

The Y plans to improve those stats

residents. It was opened in 1883, when the town

by upgrading its curriculum with a “safety before strokes” approach for children as young as three. Here in the western suburbs, YMCA of Metro Chicago has aquatics facilities at its Ys in Downers Grove, La Grange,

Photo courtesy of Elmhurst History Museum

the African-American population.

Naperville and Elmhurst.

was home to a population of just 300. The site was owned and continually operated for close to 135 years by Elmhurst’s Hammerschmidt family, for whom the chapel at Elmhurst College is named.

While the pit is no longer an active quarry, ready-

mix concrete, sand and gravel are still processed at the site by Elmhurst-Chicago Stone Co., with dozens of trucks entering and exiting each hour.

14 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Stops&Shops

Barbara’s Book Shop “Eat, sleep, read” is the motto

at Barbara’s Bookstore (810 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge, 630 920-1500), which combines knowledgeable service with a generous and varied book selection.

Bestsellers plus reference, travel, and fitness — really every genre — are in stock or easily procured at this neighborhood store, says Store Manager Georgette Coan.“We can pretty much order anything as long as it’s not out of print,” she says. The store also boasts a large children’s section with books for youngsters of all ages, plus games, toys, and activity sets. There is also an extensive bargain book section at the store.

Beyond books, Barbara’s is the only regional retailer for a unique line of African-made jewelry and home décor called Jambo, which means “hello” in Swahili. Proceeds from those sales, as well as from the only book offered in the line, The Jambo Café Cookbook, benefit the Jambo Kids Clinic in Lamu, Kenya, which serves thousands of patients annually.

— Kathy Johns



Acosta’s Home consignment

Photo courtesy of A Pinch of Happiness Spice Shop

Photo courtesy of Barbara’s Book Shop

Photo by Laurie Barton

Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites

A pinch of Happiness Spice Shop

Not a typical resale/consignment

This small neighborhood store

shop, Acosta’s inventory is mostly new or practically new. Owners Chris and Ces Acosta are certified appraisers who began in estate sales, then found another option which has now expanded to their third store, located in Wheaton at 901 Roosevelt Rd. (630 366-0005).

Consignment items come from individuals, store closings, overstock, model homes and online store returns.

Inventory changes constantly. From ornate and formal, to antique, to whimsical — suit of armor anyone?

— all items are attractively displayed.

Furniture brands include Lane, Ethan Allen, Stanley, Lazy Boy, Hickory, Drexel and Thomasville. Popular china and glasswares are Waterford, Lenox, Wedgwood, Limoges and Haviland.

Best sellers are newer upholstery, small kitchen sets and tabletop items.

After 120 days, pieces not purchased are put on donation status with proceeds going to Living Well Cancer Resource Center in Geneva.

— Laurie Barton

(74 W. Washington St., Oswego, 630 806-4990) has a big heart. It is staffed by adults with disabilities who are empowered to utilize their gifts in a positive work environment.

Over 300 items include tea, extracts, popcorn seasoning, local honey and high quality, fresh spices chopped or ground in-house. A popular item is Jumpy Monkey coffee, manufactured in Iowa by a company that also employs the disabled. Another favorite is the chai latte mix. The many varieties of gourmet salts — merlot, Himalayan, red alaea and more — will inspire any chef. Other bestsellers include the “Grillin’ Man” and “Baker’s Delight” gift box seasoning sets.

Candles, gift baskets and wedding favors are available ready made or custom designed. A professional herbalist hosts workshops and plans are in place to participate in farmers’ markets in communities in and around Oswego.

— Laurie Barton

New Store Openings Following is a sampling of new shops that have opened in the last few months in the western suburbs.

For an extensive list of other interesting shops & boutiques, go to westsuburbanliving.net.

Chocolaterie Stam European chocolate boutique with gourmet brands, bonbons, cookies, and gift bundles.

530 Pennsylvania Ave., Glen Ellyn. 331 248-4800.

Naperville Running Company Popular local running retailer to open its third location in May, with upscale sports shoes, fashions and accessories.

134 W. Front St., Wheaton.

sPenga Fitness boutique offering cutting-edge, tri-core workouts — spin, strength training and yoga — in a chic, modern environment. 1136 Lake St., Oak Park, 708 613-4743.

cork, keg & Spirits Hand-selected wines, beers, and spirits from around the world, plus tastings. More than 100 wines under $20.

1000 E. 31st St., La Grange Park, 708 998-2838.

My Half of the Sky Opening soon, fair trade coffee shop plus an eclectic mix of fashions and jewelry sourced from eco-friendly suppliers and artisans.

121 W. Wesley, Wheaton.

16 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Q&A

d s

Audrey & Harry Lesner/

n

The Budget Savvy Travelers, globetrotter extraordinaires from Willowbrook Photos courtesy of Harry and Audrey Lesner

n Let's start out with one of your best

travel experiences.

One of our most joyous, memorable experiences was landing on Antarctica.

Getting there is no easy feat! We had a lot of anxiety about crossing the turbulent waters of the infamous Drake Passage, which is the body of water separating South America and Antarctica. Visiting Antarctica is unlike anything anywhere else on the planet. There’s very few places left where one can feel like a true explorer. Antarctica conjures up that spirit because it is so isolated.

or a secluded place to watch a sunset, we walk away feeling like we’ve discovered something new.

Some of our best travel days are totally spontaneous. We head out without a guidebook or a pre-planned itinerary and just see where the day takes us. On the flipside, we were caught in a nasty hurricane leaving Deception Island off the coast of Antarctica. The waves were enormous and nauseating! We put our footage up on YouTube — BBC Earth came across it and we learned that it is going to be featured on “The World’s Deadliest Weather.”

n Do you tend to favor off-the-beaten

Had they met in high school, Audrey and Harry Lesner might not have hit it off. At Lyons Township High School in La Grange, Audrey recalls being a quiet, shy band geek at the top of her class. She played trumpet and took school very, very seriously. Harry was the opposite. He was the class clown at Westmont High School, where he was a little too cavalier about academics.

When Harry met Audrey, it was the beginning of her sophomore year in speech/language pathology at University of Chicago. Harry, after a gap year had taught him the working world can be tough, had enrolled at College of DuPage.

Audrey helped him transition to academic life and he ultimately got a Finance degree at Benedictine University and earned his CPA. The two eventually married and after working for several years, made a decision three years ago to uproot their lives. They quit their jobs, sold their belongings and embarked on a round-the-world adventure. The trip has not ended yet, as they continue to explore some of the world’s most exciting yet budget-friendly destinations.

Q&A

track destinations?

We enjoy getting out of our comfort zone, which is really quite easy. We recently got back from Taiwan where we visited Taroko Gorge. We walked Zhuilu Old Trail, a 6.2 km hike. As avid hikers, this was one of the best we‘ve ever done. We spent the day trekking in awe-inspiring scenery, crossing suspension bridges and getting an adrenaline rush from walking the narrow paths along the 1,500-ft sheer cliff drops.

We’re really open to trying new activities, but we still haven’t overcome the fear of skydiving and bungee jumping. Someday we’ll work up the nerve!

We also love to visit the hot spots in a city, even if they are touristy, although we tend to be extremely leery of anything drawing large crowds or lines. But some of our best moments have seemed to occur when we get off the beaten path either by accident or on purpose. When we come across a great local restaurant

RAPID FIRE

n Who are a few of the most interesting

people you have met?

Once you sit down and talk to people, you find out that many of them have an interesting story to tell. For us, it’s been a pretty wild ride. We’ve met people from all walks of life. It varies widely! We’ve met the mistress of one of Australia’s richest men, expedition leaders, passionate small business owners, and just the most down-to-earth, everyday people who have welcomed us into their homes and treated us like family.

One of the easiest ways for us to meet people while traveling is through Airbnb.

It really is remarkable how many great people we’ve connected with that are truly interested in sharing their hometowns with us for free. We’ve had numerous hosts pick us up from the train station, give us a tour of their city, generously gifted us a bottle of local wine, or even shared with us their favorite home baked goods. They

Places most worth a second trip?

and align with our values.

Antarctica, Patagonia, Japan and

Comforts of home you miss most

the Cook Islands.

on the road?

w O t c w e l a s h t t c t t fi

t o s y

n

W E b a l r a a r T a I

Beaches, cities or wide-open

Camera or video? Video. It truly

If you decided to live overseas,

Giordano’s stuffed pizza for Audrey

n

spaces? Audrey’s all about the

captures more of the moment.

where would you choose?

and thin crust for Harry!

mountains and Harry’s all about

Absolute must-haves for serious

We feel a great connection with

Best way to follow your travels?

beaches. When we find a mix

travelers? Duct tape and

Eastern Europe. The cost of living,

Come along for the ride with us at

of both, it’s our paradise.

super glue.

people and cultures are amazing

www.thebudgetsavvytravelers.com!

T o f i a

18 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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do it all for the reason of wanting to proudly share their love of their city with a traveler. n Has the traveling life altered your

worldview in any way?

One observation we’ve made is that our lives can be as simple or as complicated as we decide. We’ve witnessed so many people who have essentially nothing, living much happier lives than others who are living in abundance. Especially in the USA, people spend more money than they actually have, racking up debt to pay for things that they don’t really need, but they think it’ll make them happy. It’s a horrible cycle that leads people to give up their financial freedom and the ability to live their dreams. We could literally fill up an entire book about this topic.

If we were going to narrow it down to the one thing that really changed our lives, it would be minimalism. It sounds so cliché, but the more stuff you own, the more your stuff owns you.

For example, Buenos Aires is a city where many travelers get mugged or robbed for their wallets, cameras or phones. They let their guard down when traveling to these international cities, when they are by far the most dangerous places to visit.

We’ve heard horror stories of travelers not using common sense — walking alone after midnight, or simply venturing into neighborhoods that may not be safe. n How much research do you carry

out before deciding on a destination?

For our first round-the-world trip, we hung an old map up on the wall and dotted it with stickers. We ranked 20 places we wanted to see, then stood back and thought, “Wow, this is crazy!

It will take us forever to visit all of these places. I can’t believe we’re actually doing this.” Part of the fun was seeing how we each ranked our top spots.

We both had some real shockers. We still haven’t visited all the places that we initially chose, and we added some that never made that first cut. Looking back, this exercise helped us know which locations were important to us as a couple — and it helped us build a rough itinerary and route. n Do you still plan your trips in detail

n Any negative experiences to share?

We once stayed at a hostel in Punta del Este, Uruguay. We arrived after a long bus ride — it was filthy, full of men sitting around smoking, drinking and playing loud reggae music. We reserved a private room at around $50 per night, which was a lot. The bedding was covered in mold and the communal smoking area was right outside our screened bedroom door!

That same night we went out for dinner and Audrey was served raw chicken.

It was just overall a bad day. n Have you ever felt at risk of danger?

Thank goodness, no. We try not to be out late at night. After conversations with fellow travelers, we noticed that there is a strong correlation between naivety and stumbling into dangerous situations.

or do you go with the flow?

We initially planned out the first three months of travel almost to the hour.

We knew where we were going, where we were staying, how we were getting there, and what we wanted to see and do. We weren’t just planners, we were over-planners. Now, we may just plan a day or two ahead of time. This gives us the freedom to stay longer or move on, depending on how much fun we’re having. With time and experience under our belts, we’ve gained the confidence to add more flexibility to our lifestyle.

There’s a great comfort in knowing that if you’re put into a bad situation, you’re not stuck in it. You can just move on. n You saved for two years for that

first trip. How are you paying for your current travels?

We continue to spend our savings. Once you get rid of the mortgage, the cars and all of the other bills, it’s actually quite affordable to live almost anywhere in the world for approximately $25 a day per WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 19

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Q&A person. Eventually, we will have to start generating some sort of income though. n Are you able to get to know the

people as well as take in the sights?

We try to book our accommodations outside tourist areas — they’re typically the most expensive places to stay or eat. Because of this, we’re automatically “living like locals.” We shop at local grocery stores. We eat at the local restaurants. We watch the day go by from our balcony or through our window, essentially learning the rhythm of the neighborhood.

When it comes to essentials, it’s all about a pair of jeans and solid colored shirt. Throw in a comfortable pair of shoes and you’re pretty much capable of going anywhere. If you’re in the mindset that traveling the world is a fashion show, you’re in for a big surprise. Unless, you’re fabulously rich, you’ll run out of money really quickly. We also benefit from the realization that in reality, no one is paying that close attention to our wardrobe anyway. Additionally, the longer we’re traveling, the more current fashion doesn’t seem to make sense.

n How long do you stay in one place?

It really depends on how much passion we have for a place and on the cost of living there. We try to spend less than $100 per day (for both of us). We stayed for 40 nights in the Cook Islands and spent approximately $150 per day. We were willing to spend a little more there because it was a dream destination.

We also visited Norway, which is ridiculously expensive. We were there for only four nights and spent $1,309!

We keep track of every penny we spend and detail it all out on our blog. n Any tips for traveling on a budget?

Lower your expectations! A lot of Americans like all-inclusive resorts. It’s really not unheard for a couple to spend $5,000 for a one week vacation in Mexico.

Taking public transportation, renting an apartment and cooking your own meals would make that trip last a month or more! Oh, and we’ve traveled the world without a cell phone! In fact, we’ve never even owned a smart phone! If you want to quickly cut costs, get rid of the phone. n Do you travel light and what are the essentials when it comes to packing??

By our standards? No. But by most people’s standards, we travel very light. We each have a backpack and then one smaller bag for a day pack. When you carry as few items as we do, nearly everything is essential. Believe it or not, we still have nearly all the same items we set off with.

When something needs to be replaced, we replace it. The key to traveling light is layering. We’ve gone from Antarctica to the South Pacific all in one backpack.

n What do your friends and family make

of your lifestyle?

To be honest, we don’t get a lot of support. Most family and friends just want it over with. They’re hoping we return to Chicago soon and get jobs. They want us to fall back into their routine of life. The traditional American dream says that we should graduate college, buy a car and a house, start a family, visit Disney World, work toward retirement . . . and then die.

We’ve had a number of people in our lives pass away far too young. The realization that life is short definitely influenced our decision to travel. We quit our jobs, sold our stuff, said our goodbyes and left on the journey of a lifetime! n Do you ever feel you are losing out

by not putting down roots?

We feel the exact opposite. By laying down roots, we would feel permanently vested in an area and it would take away the freedom and flexibility of our lifestyle.

If we’re not comfortable where we are, we can up and leave, no strings attached. Where others may see a home as a place to call their own, we see an enormous amount of

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dollar bills, responsibilities and wasted time. There’s a lawn to mow, appliances to replace and constant maintenance.

Right now, we’re enjoying the freedom of putting the burden of property ownership on someone else while we stay in short-term rentals.

The greatest sacrifice we’ve made is not being able to spend time with our family and friends back in Chicago.

We have young nieces and nephews and we’re missing out on a lot of their milestones. It can sometimes be hard, but we’re hoping when they get older they’ll understand. We don’t regret any of the decisions we’ve made. n How does a traveling lifestyle affect

your relationship with each other?

Before our first trip, we went to a few meetings in Chicago with a group called Meet, Plan, Go where a couple who had just returned from their own round-the-world trip spoke candidly about some of the obstacles they faced.

One of their biggest challenges was being with each other 24 hours a day.

Honestly though, we really enjoy each other’s companionship. Traveling has brought us much closer and our marriage has blossomed because of it. Part of the beauty of having all this time is being able to spend it with your significant other.

Even with all the amazing experiences we’ve treasured over the last two and a half years, the biggest gift was the time to spend with one another. n Do you see a time when you’ll give up

travel and settle back in the ‘burbs?

We’ve been working to travel since the moment we got married. We’ve been having too much fun exploring the world to even think of slowing down our crazy pace. At this point, we don’t feel like there’s anything missing in our relationship.

We do feel though, that if we ever want to bring children into our lives, we’d be open to adoption or foster care.

You never know where you’re going to end up or what the future holds. This is why we’ve adopted the philosophy of living life to its fullest. If we’d had a crystal ball that showed us living for a year in the former Yugoslavia with nearly three years of continuous travel under our belt, we never would’ve believed it.

n

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WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 21

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Local Authors

By Anne Knudsen

All About ADHD Insights from world-renowned psychologist from Glen Ellyn

F

rom renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Thomas W. Phelan, best known for his groundbreaking parenting guide 1-2-3 Magic, comes help for the estimated 20 million Americans who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and their families.

Newly updated with current research and treatment information, All About ADHD is a practical, supportive guide to the symptoms and diagnosis of the disorder as well as a critical appraisal of clinical and behavioral therapy options. With a primary focus on children and families, the book takes an approach that lay readers will find easy to follow, instructive and sensitive to

their concerns.

The opening chapters help parents understand why some children struggle with social and behavioral rules that come

easily to their peers. The book describes symptoms as well as nine indicators that predict the future of children with ADHD, with an emphasis on relationships at home, at school and at play. Using statistical and evidentiary data, Dr. Phelan walks parents though every step of the journey and equips them with the tools to help children succeed. There is guidance on specific treatments, including counseling, school intervention, behavior management, social skills training, therapy and medication.

A special section provides an overview of the manifestation of ADHD in adults.

Dr. Phelan helps raise awareness of the challenges a diagnosis presents at work and in interpersonal relationships.

Comprehensive and reassuring, this book is an excellent resource for parents, teachers, pediatricians and mental health professionals.

UGLY PREY

Murder, Stage Left

by Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi,

by Robert Goldsborough,

teen world confidential

Dick Scalps the injuns

Oak Park

Elmhurst

by Kim T. Cook, St. Charles

by George Larson (writing as

The tragic true-crime story of

In the latest Nero Wolfe mystery,

This practical, up-to-the minute

Richard Avery), Sugar Grove

Italian immigrant Sabella Nitti,

New York’s most reclusive

guide offers parents tools to

With tongue firmly in cheek,

the first woman sentenced

private investigator is called on

inspire honest conversations

former special agent George

to hang in Chicago for the

to solve the murder of a famed

with adolescents about sex,

Larson sends his alter-ego,

alleged 1923 murder of her

Broadway director, poisoned

identity, relationships and

intrepid adventurer Dick Avery,

values. Information is presented

to India. Avery’s mission is to

in fast-paced five-minute reads

investigate the kidnapping

that are medically accurate,

of the U.S. ambassador’s

non-judgmental, and often

daughter. Fact and fiction

humorous. This is a confident

collide in this fast-paced tale

starting place to open the door

of intrigue, betrayal and murder,

to empathetic communication

with a good dose of comic

during the teen years.

irony mixed in.

husband. With no evidence, no witnesses and an all-male jury, Nitti was convicted for the “crime” of being poor — and ugly. A page-turning drama and thought-provoking look at gender, ethnicity and class in the American justice system.

in the soundproof tech booth by an unseen culprit during a stage performance. This quick-read whodunit spotlights the diva, the ingénue, the handsome movie star and the surly stage manager as potential suspects.

22 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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TO THE

LOOK WESTERN SKY

By Joni Hirsch Blackman

An Educational Role Reversal Former principal turned board member sticks to his students-first principles

M

ichael Raczak won a second four-year term on Indian Prairie School District 204’s Board of Education last month. But he’s been hanging around the Naperville/Aurora/ Bolingbrook district much longer — in 2011, for instance, he was duct-taped to an elementary school wall by students.

Raczak was principal of May Watts Elementary School in Naperville at the time, just a year before he retired after 21 years as a District 204 school administrator, which also included stints as an assistant principal and principal at Naperville’s Hill Middle School.

Though never planning to stick around longer, the district resident ran for school board in April 2013, less than a year after he retired — a somewhat unusual decision for a former administrator, particularly in the same district in which he’d worked.

“Towards the end of my career, I had started watching the board of education’s work and I was intrigued by it,” explains Raczak. “It was interesting. And I do like school.”

The decision to run for school board was not Raczak’s first surprising move.

After all, how many experienced middle school principals opt to take an elementary school top job for the last five years of their career? But Raczak had thought it was time for a change.

“I wanted to challenge myself and I didn’t want to go into central administration, I like being with students,” says Raczak in explaining the move. “It ended up being one of the best things I ever did — it kept me energized. Five years went very quickly.”

There were those eight rolls of duct tape students used to suspend him from

the gym wall for that PTA fundraiser, not to mention dressing as Frosty the Snowman for a winter concert, and even taking pies to the face.

“Things you never thought you’d do in your entire life,” says Raczak with a laugh. Somewhat like, perhaps, becoming

it’s helpful to have my perspective. I’m only once voice, but it’s a specific perspective.”

Early on, he heard concerns that he might show favoritism towards teachers, administrators or schools he knew, but Raczak’s answer to those questions during his first race was simple: “For me, students

“

When you see kids working and engaged, it makes it all worthwhile.”

a school board member?

As a principal, Raczak obviously paid attention to what the school board did.

But as he got older, his interest deepened, and after retiring, he seriously considered running. “It took me until the last minute — it was January when I decided to say yes, this is what I want to do,” he recalls.

Four years later, it still is.

“I enjoy, love, am intrigued by — any positive word you can put to the experience of being on the board. It has been an extension of my career and I’ve learned a lot.”

The former special ed teacher now approaches education from a more global perspective, especially regarding finances.

“I knew they weren’t giving me the money I wanted, I just never understood why,” says Raczak. “That’s the biggest change — I better understand the finite resources and how to spread them out to the benefit of everyone.”

More importantly to district residents is the unique view this former district administrator brings.

“My now-colleagues encouraged me to run originally, and several have since told me

come first. Then your decision making is a lot more balanced.”

Deciding whether to run for re-election was easy, since Raczak appreciates the continual learning process. “What keeps me current keeps me young and keeps me going,” he says. “We participate in lots of events and get to see how policy and procedure and our decisions really translate into great programming for kids. When you see kids working and engaged, it makes it all worthwhile.”

Four years from his next opportunity to place yard signs around town, the 65-year-old isn’t making any promises.

“At 69? This may be it,” acknowledges Raczak. “I want to have a great four years, do my best, and work my hardest.”

He even would, he says, endure the duct tape again. He ran a half-marathon as a board member a couple of years ago and would take on other reasonable challenges.

One thing he definitely will vote against. “I do regret the pies — the chocolate creme got in my ears. In the shower when brown stuff was leaking out, I decided it wasn’t prudent to take pies in my face any more.” n

24 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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OUT&ABOUT |

THEATRE

|

COMEDY

|

ART

|

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

|

HOME & GARDEN

|

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Rialto Square Theatre

MUSIC

Olivia Newton-John May 11 Star of Grease, this actress and Grammy Award-winning vocalist performs favorites from her top-selling albums at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet. Call 815 726-6600

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Calendar of Events

Photo by Brett Beiner

OUT&ABOUT

| God of Carnage | Fri – Sun, May 26 – June 17. Two married couples meet for the first time shortly after their respective sons have a schoolyard tangle. Cost: $18. Village Theatre Guild, 3S020 Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 469-8230 | The Producers | Thur − Sun, May 26 − June 18, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. A muscial comedy in which a failing theater producer meets a cowardly accountant and a plan is hatched to produce the worst show ever and reap the rewards. Cost: $23/20. Playhouse 111, 111 N Hale St., Wheaton. 630 260-1820 | Rumors | Thur − Sun, June 1 − 11, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m.; Also, Sun, June 4, 7:30 p.m. and Sat, June 10, 2:30 p.m. In this Neil Simon farce, when the Deputy Mayor of New York shoots himself, four couples need to get their stories straight and hilarity ensues. Cost: $22/12.

Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380

Through June 11 CHICAGO Recipient of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, this musical satire, playing at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace tells of corruption in the administration of criminal justice in the age of jazz. Call 630 530-0111

THEATRE | Jesus Christ Superstar | Through May 28, Wed − Sun, Wed 1:30 & 7 p.m., Thur 7 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 3 & 8 p.m. and Sun 1 & 5:30 p.m. Seven time Tony-nominated rock musical dramatizes the betrayal and death of Jesus Christ.Cost: $59/44. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Chicago | Through June 11, Wed − Sun, Wed − Thur 1:30 & 8 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 5 & 8:30 p.m. and Sun 2 & 6 p.m. Recipient of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, this musical satire tells of corruption in the administration of criminal justice in the age of jazz.

Cost: $60. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | The Trojan Women | Thur − Sat, May 4 − 6, 8 p.m.

Adapted from translations of Homer by Gilbert Murray and Edith Hamilton, this dramatization tells of Troy’s captive women, both royalty and commoners, awaiting their fates at the hands of Greek conquerors. Cost: $7/5. Mill Theatre at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3005 | A Street Car Named Desire | Thur − Sun, May 4 − 7, Thur 7 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 3 & 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m.

After emotionally fragile Blanche DuBois loses her family home, she moves to New Orleans to live with her sister and brutish brother-in-law, Stanley, who pushes Blanche’s world into collapse. Cost: $22/15.

Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora.

630 896-6666 | Improbable Fiction | Thur − Sun, May 4 − June 4, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Sharp comedy and dry satire characterize this zany play by famed British playwright Alan Ayckbourn, where imagination quickly turns into reality. Cost: $35. McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | One Man Star Wars Trilogy | Fri, May 5, 8 p.m.

Comedian Charlie Ross single-handedly performs the “Star Wars” trilogy in 90 minutes flat. Cost: $35/30. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs.

708 246-3380

| A Tale of Two Cities | Fri − Sun, May 5 − 21, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, this drama foucuses on a love triangle amid the chaos of the French Revolution and the fall of the Bastille. Cost: $17/15. First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, 232 S York St., Elmhurst. 630 464-2646 | Bus Stop | Fri − Sat, May 5 − June 10, 8 p.m. William Inge's quasi-romantic comedy is set inside a 1955 diner in rural Kansas, when a winter snowstorm forces passengers to take shelter — and to evaluate their relationships. Cost: $17/15. The Riverfront Playhouse, 11 &13 S Water St. Mall, Aurora. 630 897-9496 | Rock n’ Roll Theatre | Sat, May 6, 7 p.m. Begin the night with a one-act play, “The Fire and the Rose,” followed by a performance by Sarah Potenza, an upand-coming Nashville-based singer/songwriter. Cost: $29. SecondSpace Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Troilus and Cressida | Thur − Sun, May 18 − 21, Thur − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. With classic themes of love and vengeance across enemy lines, this Shakespearean tragedy tells of a doomed romance amidst the futility of a long drawn-out war. Cost: $10/8. Theatre at MeileySwallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | An Evening at the Opera | Fri − Sun, May 19 − 21, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 6 p.m. A pairing of Mozart’s 1786 “The Impresario,” a comedic parody, with Menotti's dark 1939 radio-opera one-act, “The Old Maid and the Thief,” sharing twisted tales of womanly power. Cost: $28/23.Vero Voce Theatre, 951 State Ave., St. Charles. 630 584-0139 | Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike | Fri − Sun, May 19 − June 11, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. In this Chekov-inspired comedy, middle-aged siblings must give up their idle lives and find work to save their home.

Cost: $28/22. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521 | That Thing Called Love | Sun, May 21, 2:30 p.m. This Main Street Cabaret show celebrates love in its many forms. Cost: $15/12. Vero Voce Theatre, 951 State Ave., St. Charles. 630 584-0139

| Guys and Dolls | Fri − Sun, June 9 − 25, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. When Nathan Detroit, owner of the oldest permanent floating craps game in town, bets that a high roller can’t get a date with a straightlaced Salvation Army doll, things turn upside down in this musical comedy set in the comic book world of 1940s New York City. Cost: $27/24. Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville. 630 637-7469

COMEDY | Improv: On Ice! | Thur − Sun, May 4 − 7, Thur − Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. An improvisational sketch show directed by Alex Moerer. Cost: $5/3.

Madden Theatre, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville.

630 637-7469 | Doug Benson | Fri, May 5, 8 p.m. A Cinco de Mayo special with comedian and marijuana advocate best known for his podcasts “Doug Loves Movies” and “Getting Doug with High.” Cost: $25 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Jermaine Fowler | Sat, May 6, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Comedian who has toured nationally with “College Humor” and “Comedy Central on Campus” as well as writing and starring in the TruTV sketch “Friends of the People.” Cost: $25 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Lenny Schmidt | Thur − Sat, May 18 − 20, Thur − Fri 8 p.m. and Sat 7:30 & 9:45 p.m. Drawing inspiration from his life and real stories, this comedian can be seen on “Inbetweeners” and performed in films such as “Joe Dirt,” and “The Ugly Truth.” Cost: $20 + 2 item food/ bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 524-0001 | Aries Spears | Thur − Sun, May 25 − 28, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. In addition to being a comedian, Spears has dabbled in writing feature films, developing feature projects and more.

Cost: $28 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Tim Walkoe | Thur − Sat, June 8 − 10, Thur − Fri 8 p.m. and Sat 7:30 − 9:45 p.m. A veteran headliner at over 100 comedy clubs around the country, Walkoe was also the $10,000 grand prize winner of ABC’s “America’s Funniest People.” Cost: $20 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 524-0001

28 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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French Country Market FLOWERS

FRESH PRODUCE

VINTAGE HOUSEWARES

Hand Crafted Items ANTIQUES

BAKED GOODS

This Year's Dates May 13th 8am - 2pm June 10th 8am - 2pm July 8th 8am - 2pm Aug. 12th 8am - 2pm Sept. 9th 8am - 2pm Oct. 14th 8am - 2pm 123 west Illinois Ave

at Canal Port, Morris, IL

ARTISANAL CHEESES "Part farmers' market, part high-end swap meet, this Euro-style, open-air emporium lies along the picturesque Illinois & Michigan canal. It features more than 130 vendors selling antique furniture, salvaged items, vintage housewares and crafts, as well as baked goods, artisanal cheeses, flowers and local produce." - Bob Vila

*10 Best Flea Markets for Cool Old Finds

* Top 5 Market in the Nation

- Bob Vila

- Romantic Homes Magazine

*Top 10 Outdoor Market - Romantic Country Magazine

For more information go to 3FrenchHensMarket.blogspot.com ~ Vendor Inquiries Welcome, call 815.513.5600

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Tickets $15.00 Adults $10.00 Student/Senior

Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of Paramount Theatre

OUT&ABOUT June 4 & 10 PIANO MEN

The

Amazing Grace

the power of the human spirit

Saturday, May 6, 2017 | 7:00pm

Reviving hits by Billy Joel and Elton John, Craig Meyer and Donnie Kehr relive the glory of two rock superstars. Sun, June 4, 3 p.m. at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd.,Wheaton, 630 668-5161; and Saturday, June 10, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, 630 896-6666

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 306 S. Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068

Sunday, May 7, 2017 | 4:00pm Trinity Episcopal Church 130 North West, Wheaton, IL 60187

$3 off

Use the coupon code NEWSPAPER when you purchase your tickets online, and you will receive a $3 discount per ticket.

Join the acclaimed Eclectic Choral Artists as we explore the unique relationship that music has on our ability to endure tragic events that test our human spirit.

Tickets available at

www.eclecticchoralartists.org

MUSIC | LeAnn Rimes | Fri, May 5, 7:30 p.m. This internationally acclaimed singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter was the youngest recipient of a Grammy Award. Cost: $59/34. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Once Upon a Symphony | Sun, May 7, 1:30 & 3:15 p.m. Created for children ages 3 and up, performers from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra musically narrate the story of farm animals who go to the town of Bremen to follow their dream of becoming musicians.

Cost: $16/14. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The Hit Men | Sun, May 7, 5 p.m. Rock and roll favorites from original band members who toured with Frankie Valli, Carly Simon, Barry Manilow, Carole King, Elton John, Paul McCartney and others. Cost: $69/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Franco De Vita | Sun, May 7, 7 p.m. This Venezuelan Latin Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter performs on his “Libre” tour. Cost: $125/59. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | Olivia Newton-John | Thur, May 11, 7:30 p.m. Star of “Grease,” this actress and Grammy Award-winning vocalist performs favorites from her top-selling albums.

Cost: $89/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Broadway in Elmhurst Concert | Sat, May 13, 7 p.m.

An evening of musical theatre headlined by Lisa Griffith and Julie Sommer Peterson, with selections from West Side Story and other favorites by local performers. Cost: $20/15. Timothy Christian School Auditorium, 188 W Butterfield Rd., Elmhurst. www.ecpa-elmhurst.org | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Springtime Celebration | Sat, May 13, 8 p.m. Finishing up their 2017 season, this musical event features the 2017 Young Artists Auditions soloist performing Delius’ “Florida Suite,” Copland’s “American Appalachian Spring” and Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture.” Cost: $33/15. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 6377469 | An Evening with Poi Dog Pondering | Sat, May 13, 8 p.m. Known for their unique “Soul Sonic Orchestra”

sound, this band touches on musical genres such as orchestral, acoustic and electronic. Cost: $79/49.

Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Gin Blossoms | Sat, May 13, 8 p.m. This 1980s janglepop band is known for chiming guitars, introspective lyrics and irresistable melodies. Cost: $65/44. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Chicago Modern Orchestra Project: World Cinema Series | Sun, May 14. Enjoy new, jazz-oriented scores performed by a live orchestra accompanied by silent films with plots addressing timeless and universal issues such as feminism, idealism, and hate. Martin Recital Hall at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest.

708 488-5000, | Daryl Hall & John Oates | Mon, May 15, 7 p.m. These Rock & Roll Hall of Famers partner with multi-platinum selling band Tears for Fears. Cost: $150/35. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Barry Manilow | Wed, May 17, 7:30 p.m. Music icon who has exceeded 85 million worldwide record sales in his career plays his greatest hits as well as recent new releases. Cost: $250/30. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Sinfonietta Bel Canto | Thur, May 18, 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the interpretive period of this historic estate with a night of orchestral and vocal music. Cost: $24.

Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. www.sinfoniettabelcanto.org | Coming Home | Fri, May 19, 7:30 p.m. Troy Quin’Ton showcases classics from his decades as a solo artist including songs from Jeffrey Osborne, Kem and Teddy Pendergrass and others. Copley Theatre at Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Yngwie Malmsteen | Sat, May 21, 5 p.m. With a career spanning over 40 years, this Stockholm-bases guitarist draws influences from classical composers such as Bach and Paganini to create a neo-classical rock style. Cost: $99/49. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Orion Ensemble | Sun, May 21, 7 p.m. “Wit & Passion” concert with pieces from Brahms and Francaix. Cost: $26/10. First Baptist Church of Geneva, 2300 South St., Geneva. www.orionensemble.org

30 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Photo courtesy of Paramount Theatre

| The Weeknd | Tue, May 23, 7:30 p.m. Known for his songs “Starboy” and “Can’t Feel My Face,” this Academy Award-nominated artist presents songs from his fourth full-length album. Cost: $195. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Live on the Lawn | Wednesdays, May 24 − Sept 27, 6:30 p.m. Enjoy live music, drink specials and more. St. Andrews Golf and Country Club, 2241 Route 59, West Chicago. 630 231-3100 | Anthem | Sun, May 28, 3 p.m. Classic rock selections from more than five decades of rock, including Styx, Bon Jovi, Journey and others. Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Picosa | Sun, May 28, 3 − 5 p.m. Enjoy contemporary and traditional repertoire from this Chicago-based mixed chamber ensemble. For tickets, visit www. picosamusic.com. Cost: $25. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Steve Cooper Orchestra | Mon, May 29, 3 p.m.

Performing musical arrangements of Glenn Miller, Woody Herman and others, this concert spans current broadway, movie soundrack and rock & roll genres. Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Downers Grove Summer Concert Series | Tuesdays, May 30 − Aug 29, 7 p.m. Enjoy entertainment from musicians such as Shout Out, Wild Daisy, HiFi Superstar and more. Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. 630 960-7500 | Enrique Iglesias & Pitbull | Sat, June 3, 7:30 p.m. These multiple Grammy Award-winning global superstars team up to perform their own songs and collaborations.

Cost: $170/120. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | St. Charles Singers: American Reflections | Sat, June 3, 7:30 − 9 p.m. This professional chamber choir, conducted by Jeffrey Hunt, caps off its 33rd concert season with "American Reflections," featuring music that it will take on tour in England later in the month. For more information, visit www.stcharlessingers.com. Cost: $35/10. Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. 630 513-5272 | Piano Men | Sun, June 4, 3 p.m. Performing the hits of Billy Joel and Elton John, Craig Meyer and Donnie Kehr play and reenact the style of the two rock superstars. Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton, 630 668-5161. Additional shows Sat, June 10, 3 & 8 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Tool | Thur, June 8, 8 p.m. An LA-formed band that has won three Grammy Awards and produced chart-topping albums worldwide. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Donovan | Fri, June 9, 8 p.m. Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Famer and folk-jazz singer best known for “Catch the Wind” and “Sunshine Superman.” Cost: $101/61. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | John Legend | Sat, June 10, 7:30 p.m. The “Darkness and Light” tour comes to Ravinia in support of the artist’s new album, featuring songs such as “I Know Better” and “Penthouse Floor.” Cost: $173/52. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Barbra & Frank | Sun, June 11, 3 p.m. A tribute to Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand with popular hits spanning decades. Cost: $35. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 31

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Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Oak Park Art League

OUT&ABOUT May 12 - June 2 THROUGH THE LENS OF WRIGHT Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the famed architect’s birthday, this Oak Park Art League exhibit features a Midwest juried exhibition and events centered on Wright and his reverence for the natural world. Call 708 386-9853

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F DANCE | Vyshyvanka School of Dance: With Ukraine in Heart | Thur, May 19, 7 p.m. Folk dance show highlighting Ukranian culture and tradition through a variety of ethnic dance styles. Cost: $28. Lund Auditorium at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000 | Salt Creek Ballet | Sat – Sun, May 20 – 21, Sat 3 p.m. and Sun 1 p.m. A production of “Alice in Wonderland,” featuring tea parties, a mad hatter and more. Cost: $30/20. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000

ART | Kings & Queens: Pinball, Imagists & Chicago | Through May 7, Tue − Sun, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. Interactive exhibition that invites guests to play pinball on Chicago-designed and built pinball machines from the 1960s-1980s alongside paintings, sculptures and prints made in Chicago around the same time. Cost: $9/8. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Lorraine Peltz | Through May 14, Mon − Sun, Mon & Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m., Tue − Fri 10 a.m. − 9 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. With imagery from personal history and the contemporary moment, particularly in relation to women. Peltz examines ideas of memory, place and identity. Schoenherr Gallery at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-5375 | Oak Brook Art League Exhibit | Mon − Sat, May 3 − June 30, Mon − Fri 9 a.m. − 3 p.m. and Sat 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. Enjoy works by members of the league. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Art in the Park | Sat − Sun, May 6 − 7, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m.

Works from more than 125 artists and artisans in a festive outdoor atmosphere, with food from local vendors.Wilder Park, 175 S Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. www.rglmarketingforthearts.com | MAPS Nature Photography Exhibit | Sat − Sun, May 6 − 8, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. This sixth annual exhibit features

original nature photography from the grounds of The Morton Arboretum. Cudahy Auditorium at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | ClaySpace Pottery Show | Sun, May 7, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Sponsored by the non-profit arts studio, this show features demonstrations and pottery for sale. Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton.

630 668-5161 | Through the Lens of Wright | Mon − Sat, May 12 − June 2, Mon − Fri 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 1 − 4 p.m. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the famous architect’s birthday, this is a Midwest juried exhibition with events centered on Wright and his reverence for the natural world. Oak Park Art League, 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park. 708 386-9853

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| The Art of Seeing Nature with Bryan Peterson | Sat, May 13, 9 a.m. − 4 p.m. Renowned, award-winning photographer teaches how to build photography skills and improve results in the field. Registration required.

Cost: $88/75. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

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| Making Kaleidoscopic Color Mandalas | Sat, May 13, 1 − 5 p.m. Artist Marji Purcell teaches students how to create and color original mandala patterns with radial symmetry and blended color harmonies. Cost: $123/98.

Kavanagh Building at Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-9443

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| Randal Stringer | Tue − Sun, May 14 − June 23, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m.

Elmhurst Artists’ Guild member exhibits highly rendered digital paintings in which he explores multiple themes.

Cost: $8/7. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 279-1009

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| Origami in the Garden | Mon − Sun, May 19 − Oct 22, 9 a.m. − 6 p.m. Large-scale metal sculptures based on traditional Japanese origami forms, displayed around the grounds. Free with Arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | St. Charles Fine Art Show | Sat − Sun, May 27 − 28, Sat 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. An awardwinning annual show featuring 100 juried artists in media including watercolors, oils, sculpture, photography and more. Riverside Dr., St. Charles. 630 443-3967

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| Prairie Arts Festival | Sat − Sun, May 27 − 28, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. The 30th annual fine art and craft exhibition and sale, featuring mixed media. Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | ONE | Mon − Thur & Sat, June 1 − July 29, Mon − Thur 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. This exhibition provides a survey of contemporary artwork by emerging artists in the region and across the country. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2321 | Fine Line Arts Festival: Prairie Style | Sat, June 3, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Enjoy art demonstrations, learn how to glaze your own raku pottery, listen to live music and more. Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-8443 | Sixteenth Annual Fine Arts Festival | Sat − Sun, June 3 − 4, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Tour the festival, which features paintings, ceramics, hand-woven textiles, mosaics and more. Graue Mill, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 655-2090

FAMILY & GENERAL | Geneva French Market | Through Nov 12, Sundays 9 a.m. − 2 p.m. Enjoy farm-fresh produce, fresh flowers, baked goods, jewelry and more. Parking lot of the Metra Train Station at Fourth & South St., Geneva. 630 232-7494 | Girlfriends Getaway | Thur, May 4, 3 − 8 p.m. Grab your gal pals for a day and evening out and enjoy free gifts, special offers, door prizes and more. Various locations in Downtown La Grange. www.lagrangeevents.com | La Grange Outdoor Farmers Market | Thursdays, May 4 − Oct 26, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m. Enjoy a selection of products from local farmers and artisan as well as children’s activities, live music and more. In front of Village Hall, 53 S La Grange Rd., La Grange. www.lgba.com | Downers Grove Founders’ Day | Sat, May 6, 9 a.m.

This annual celebration features a 10K, a 5K, a family bike ride, a dedication and more. Downtown Downers Grove. www.downtowndg.org | Stars on Ice | Sat, May 6, 7:30 p.m. Watch some of the biggest names in U.S. figure skating, including Nathan and Karen Chen, Ashley Wagner, Madison Chock, Evan Bates and more. Cost: $165/25. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

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| Model Railroad Garden | Mon − Sun, May 13 − Oct 29, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. The 7,500-square-foot model train garden features trains running on 1,600 feet of track with realistic train noises, intricate terrain and more. Cost: $6/4.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe.

847 835-5440

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| REZA | Wed, May 17, 7:30 p.m. Voted 2016 Magician of the Year, this illusionist captivates audiences with sleight-of-hand, grand-scale productions and more.

Cost: $45/17. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300

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| Family Night: Game Show | Fri, May 19, 5:30 − 7:30 p.m. Play Trivia Blitz and Versus against your friends at this family night out. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Downtown Wheaton Vintage Rides | Fridays, May 19 − 26, 6 − 9 p.m. Vintage cars and more on display. 134 W Front St., Wheaton. www.downtownwheaton.com | Downers Grove Summer Nights Classic Car Show | Fridays, May 19 − Aug 25, 6 − 9 p.m. View different models of cars each night plus live entertainment. Main Street WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 33

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OUT&ABOUT

Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Cantigny Park

from Maple to Franklin. 630 725-0991 | Cindy Kaza | Wed, May 24, 7:30 p.m. Using her skills as a clairvoyant and an evidential medium, Kaza displays evidence of spirits, such as phrases often used by deceased loved ones, their favorite pasttimes and more.

Cost: $22 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Downtown Lisle Cruise Night & Block Party | Sat, May 27, 6 − 9 p.m. Enjoy music, food, beverages, prizes, raffles and more. Downtown Lisle. 630 364-0052 | Riverside Historic Walking Tours | Sun, May 28, 2 − 4 p.m.View the historic, landmark village of Riverside with a walking tour that leads participants to places of worship designed by Jenney, homes by Silsbee and more. For more information, visit www.olmstedsociety.org. Cost: $25/10. Riverside Train Station, 90 Bloomingbank Rd., Riverside. 708 442-7675 | Toast of the Army: 100th Anniversary | Fri, June 2, 7 − 11 p.m. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 1st Infantry Division of the United States Army with beverages, dancing, historical artifacts and vehicles, toasting and more. Registration required. Cost: $55. Le Jardin at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton.

630 260-8187 | Eldridge Adventure Day | Sat, June 10, 10 a.m. − 1 p.m. Enter a fishing contest, go on a bug hunt, meet exotic animals or visit a petting zoo while also enjoying carnival games and face painting. Eldridge Park, 363 Commonwealth Ln., Elmhurst. 630 993-8900

FESTIVALS | Food Truck Festival | Fri, May 5, 5 − 10 p.m. Grab some festive street food and enjoy live music from different artists at the second annual festival. Downtown Aurora. www.auroradowntown.org | Taste of Glen Ellyn | Thur − Sun, May 18 − 21. The 40th annual festival features live entertainment, food, drinks, carnival rides, a craft festival and more. For full schedule, visit www.glenellynchamber.com. Downtown Glen Ellyn.

630 469-0907 | Blooming Fest | Sat, May 20, 9 a.m. − 3 p.m. Enjoy live entertainment from Jazz Occurrence, food, children’s activities, a pop-up art show and more at this annual plant sale and garden celebration. Downtown West Chicago. www.westchicago.org | Taste of Wheaton | Thur − Sun, June 1 − 4. Listen to live entertainment, stroll the arts and crafts fair, taste food from local vendors and more. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. www.wheatonparkdistrict.com | Two Brothers Summer Festival | Fri − Sat, June 2 − 3, Fri 5:30 p.m. and Sat 4 p.m. This annual craft beer and music festival features bands Savoir Adore, Blind Pilot, Saint Motel and more. Cost: $200/25. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666

May 21 VINTAGE BASE BALL GAME Enjoy an afternoon of America’s pastime as it was played more than 100 years ago with the original 1858 rules in play. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. Call 630 668-5161

| Summer Kick-Off Celebration | Fri, June 9, 5 − 10 p.m. This year’s free Water Park and Splash Pad event features a DJ, games, prizes and a movie, along with sand castle and hula-hoop contests, lifeguard safety demonstrations and relay races. Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad, 1100 W Wood St., Bensenville. 630 766-7015

KIDS | Dinos & Dragons | Mon − Sun, May 6 − Sept 17, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. This new exhibit features 17 large-scale animatronic dinosaurs exhibted outdoors along a winding outdoor path as well as hands-on activities and learning opportunities with live reptiles and lizards in a fun, interactive environment. Cost: $5/3. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | National Train Day Celebration | Sat − Sun, May 13 − 14, Sat 9 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Enjoy train art activities, storytelling and more to celebrate trains.

For more information, visit www.dupagechildrens.org.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N Washington St., Naperville. 630 637-8000

HISTORY | By All Accounts: The Story Of Elmhurst | Ongoing, Tue − Sun 1 − 5 p.m. A new, innovative and interactive exhibit that shows how Elmhurst has changed and grown over the past 165 years through a display of interesting artifacts using the latest in museum technology. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457

| La Grange Carnival | Fri − Sun, June 2 − 4, Fri 5 − 10 p.m., Sat noon − 10 p.m. and Sun noon − 7 p.m. Enjoy rides, games, food and more at this annual summer event. Harris St. between La Grange Rd. and Ashland Ave., La Grange. www.lagrangeevents.com

| Inside & Out: Geneva's Faces, Places & Spaces | Through Nov 4, Tue − Sat 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. An exhibition highlighting the people who designed, constructed and lived in some of Geneva's homes and buildings. Free for members. Cost: $3/2. Geneva History Museum, 113 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-4951

| Fourth Annual Glen Ellyn Vintage Auto Fest | Sat, June 3, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. View a show of vintage automobiles. Outside Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867

| House & Home | Through May 25, Tue − Sun, Sun & Tue − Fri 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. A traveling exhibit from the National Building Museum in Washington D.C. features a kaleidoscopic array of photographs, objects,

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models and films that takes visitors on a tour of houses past and present, challenging ideas about what it means to be at home in America. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457 | Date with History: Artillery Scout | Wed, May 3, 7:30 p.m. Pulling from stories shared by his grandfather, an artillery scout in France during WWII, as well as other sources, author James Bilder paints a picture of life as a soldier on the front line. First Division Museum at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8187 | History Speaks Lecture Series: Margaret Mitchell | Sun, May 7, 4 p.m. Lynn Rymar shares the life and times of Pulitzer Prize winner Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind. Cost: $10/7. Century Memorial Chapel, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Victorian Memory and Mourning: Cemetery Symbols | Sat, May 13, 1 − 3 p.m. Experience hands-on Victorian mourning artifacts and learn how Americans have traditionally handled death and mourning.

Reservations required. Cost: $15/13. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Architectural Walking Tour | Thur, May 19, 1 p.m.

Enjoy a 45 - 60 minute guided walking tour of historic downtown Geneva with stories of notable buildings and the people who settled the town. Cost: $10. Downtown Geneva. www.genevahistorymuseum.org | Civil War Days | Sat, May 20, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Annual event featuring a live reenactment, period medical technique demonstrations and more. Cost: $15/10. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Oak Park River Forest Gangster Tour | Sun, May 21, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tour 14 houses once owned

by Chicago-area gangsters including Tony Accardo, Paul Ricca, Sam Giancana and others. Cost: $30.

Oak Park Visitor’s Center, 1010 Lake St., Oak Park.

708 848-1500 | Medications of the 1840s | Sun, June 4, 1 p.m. Learn how medications and medical practices impacted people along the Fox River in the early years of the settlement. Cost: $6/3. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485

HOME & GARDEN | Community Roots: Agriculture in Naperville | Through June 27, Mon − Sun, Mon − Sat 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sun 1 − 4 p.m. Explore the community’s rich agricultural history and learn how changes in technology transformed life on Naperville farms through the 20th century. Cost: $12/8. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Garden Tour: Spring Annuals & Bulbs | Tue, May 2, 11 a.m. Join horticulturists on a guided tour through the annuals and bulb displays. Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Love Your Neighbor 3rd Annual Design House | Thur, May 4, 4 − 9 p.m. Discover and buy the latest in home trends from west suburban designers.

All proceeds will benefit Love Your Neighbor. Visit www.lovebydesign.org. Cost: $40 129 N Wet St., Wheaton. | Greenhouse Open House | Sun, May 7, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. A self-guided tour around the greenhouse to view 50,000 plugs of native seedlings and wetland natives and speak with horticulture staff. Greenhouse at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161

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June 4 - 7

MID-AMERICAN CANOE AND KAYAK RACE

10- and 6-mile races on the Fox River with a party at the finish line. Registration required. www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

| Cummings & Goings in River Forest Spring Housewalk | Sun, May 7, 1 − 5 p.m. Interior tours of seven homes developed by Edmund A. Cummings’ River Forest Land Association Company. Visit www.oprfhistory.org. Cost: $30/25. Various locations in River Forest. 708 848-6755 | Glen Ellyn Infant Welfare’s 33rd Annual Housewalk| Fri, May 12, 10 a.m. − 9 p.m. The housewalk features unique Glen Ellyn homes showcasing both modern and historic architecture and design. Cost: $45/40. Various homes in Glen Ellyn. www.glenellyninfantwelfare.org | Native Plant Sale | Fri − Sat, May 12 − 13, Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. and Sat 9 a.m. − 2 p.m. Attract butterflies, bees and other pollinators with flowers, grasses, trees and shrubs adapted to DuPage conditions, and get advice from Forest Preserve District plant experts. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Wright Plus Housewalk | Sat, May 20, 9 a.m. − 5 p.m. This annual event offers visitors a look at private residences designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Cost: $115/90. Various locations in Oak Park. www.flwright.org | Summer Container Workshop | Sat, May 20, 9:30 a.m. − noon.; Also, Tue, May 23, 6:30 − 9 p.m. Join a resident horticulturist in a workshop designed to teach how to keep plants blooming in containers all summer long.

Registration required. Cost: $50. Greenhouse at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162

4, 7 a.m. A 10-mile race on the Fox River starting in St. Charles, plus a 6-miler from Batavia, both finishing in Aurora with a party celebration to follow. Registration required. Cost: $95/25. Races start from Mount St. Mary Park in St. Charles and VFW Batavia, 645 S River St., Batavia. www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

FOOD & DRINK | Cantigny: Mother’s Day Brunch | Sun, May 14, 10 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day with an award-winning brunch featuring contemporary and traditional fare. Reservations required. Cost: $43/18. Le Jardin & Red Oak Room at Cantigny Golf, 27W270 Mack Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-3323 | Mother's Day Champagne Brunch | Sun, May 14, 9:30 a.m. − 2:30 p.m. Brunch highlights include carving, omelet, crepe, and antipasto stations. Reservations required. Cost: $36/16. White Pines Golf Club & Banquets, 500 W Jefferson, Bensenville. 630 766-0304 | Taste of the Town: Food for Life | Thur, May 18, 6 − 10 p.m. Sample food and drinks at various downtown restaurants, view cooking demonstrations, enjoy live music and more. Cost: $60/50. Wilder Mansion, 211 S Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. www.ucca-elmhurst.org

| Western Springs Historical Society House Walk | Sun, May 21, 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. Gain design and architectural inspiration while viewing six different Western Springs homes. Cost: $45/35. Various homes in Western Springs. www.westernspringshistory.org

| Arboretum Uncorked | Thur, May 18, 7 p.m. Enjoy a glass of wine and, guided by an instructor, either create a spring floral arrangement or paint a picture of endangered species. Registration required. Cost: $48/39.

Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

| Wild Edibles | Sun, May 21, 1 − 3 p.m.; Also, Thur, May 25, 6 − 8 p.m. Take a walk and nibble on wild edible plants along the way while learning about native species. Registration required. Cost: $34/25. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

| Wine Tasting | Thur, May 25, 6 − 8:30 p.m. Choose from 100 wines from around the world to sample, enjoy live music and take home a souvenir wine glass. Registration required. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $45/35. Visitor Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 725-2066

OUTDOORS | Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race | Sun, June

| Downtown Naperville Wine Walk | Sun, June 4, noon − 5 p.m. Wine and food tastings in different shops and restaurants, as well as live entertainment. For ages 21 and over. For information visit www.arranmorearts.org.

Various locations in downtown Naperville.

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| Mayslake Garden Party | Sun, June 4, 1 − 4 p.m. Enjoy a silent auction, music, horseless carriages, activities and more at this event to benefit the restoration of Mayslake Hall. For ages 21 and over. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9588 | Wednesdays, Woods & Wine | Wednesdays, June 7 − Aug 30, 5 − 8 p.m. Enjoy the outdoors while listening to live music and tasting special drinks and wines. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $15/10. Arbor Court at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Ottawa Wine Fest | Fri − Sun, June 9 − 11, Fri 5 − 10 p.m., Sat noon − 10 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Enjoy wines from 20 wineries from across the state, live music, an Outdoor Craft & Botanical Fair and more. For tickets and schedule, visit www.ottawa2riverswinefest.com.

101 W Main St., Ottawa. 815 434-2737

The Amazing Grace

the power of the human spirit

Saturday, May 6, 2017 | 7:00pm St. Mary’s Episcopal Church | 306 S. Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068

Sunday, May 7, 2017 | 4:00pm Trinity Episcopal Church | 130 North West, Wheaton, IL 60187

Tickets $15.00 Adults | $10.00 Student/Senior

$3 off

Use the coupon code NEWSPAPER when you purchase your tickets online, and you will receive a $3 discount per ticket.

Join the acclaimed Eclectic Choral Artists as we explore the unique relationship that music has on our ability to endure tragic events that test our human spirit.

Tickets available at www.eclecticchoralartists.org

| Hometown Picnic | Sun, June 11, 1 − 4 p.m. Oldfashioned games, contests, music, an apple pie baking competition and more. Free with museum admission.

Cost: $12/8. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010

SPORTS | Kane County Cougars | Mon, May 8 6:30 p.m.; Tue, May 9, noon; Wed, May 10 & 31, 11 a.m.; Thur, May 11 & 18 and June 3, 6:30 p.m.; Fri, May 12, 19, and 26, 6:30 p.m.; Sat, May 20 & 27, 6:30 p.m.; and Sun, May 21, 1 p.m.; Also, Mon, May 29, 1 p.m.; Tue, May 20, 6:30 p.m.; Sat, May 13, 1 p.m.; and May 21, 1 p.m. Kane County’s Midwest minor league baseball team plays against regional opponents. Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva. 630 232-8811 | Chicago Sky | Fri, May 19, 7:30 p.m.; Wed, May 24, 11:30 a.m.; Sun, June 28, 5 p.m.; and Thur, June 1, 7 p.m.

Watch a professional women’s basketball team playing against other WNBA teams. Cost: $120/16. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | WWE NXT TakeOver | Sat, May 20, 6:15 p.m. View your favorite NXT superstars in action, including Bobby Roode, Hideo Itami and others. Cost: $55/20. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Vintage "Base Ball" Game | Sun, May 21, 1 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of America’s favorite pastime as it was done more than 100 years ago with the original 1858 rules in play. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | WWE Backlash | Sun, May 21, 6:30 p.m. Back for the first time in 15 years, this event features superstars Randy Orton, Bray Wyatt and others. Cost: $175/55. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

HEALTH & FITNESS | Walk for Wellness House | Sun, May 7, 8:30 a.m. Enjoy a 5K run and 3K walk to benefit the Wellness House so they can continue to offer no-cost psychosocial support to those affected by cancer in the area. Registration required. Wellness House, 131 N County Line Rd., Hinsdale. www.wellnesshouse.org | Groovin’ in the Grove Race | Sat, May 13, 9 a.m. − noon. The 28th annual Mother’s Day 5K Run and Fun Walk. Registration required. Cost: $47/8. Midwestern University, 555 31st St., Downers Grove. 630 971-6401 | Fun Family Fitness Day | Sat, May 13, 10 a.m. − noon.

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Photo courtesy of Goodman Theatre

OBJECTS IN THE MIRROR

Activities, healthy snacks and informative talks to keep families happy and healthy. Triton’s Robert Collins Center R Building, 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove. 708 456-0300 | Hops for Hope 5K | Sat, May 20, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Travel through scenic St. Charles in the 5K, also featuring Beer Stops from local craft breweries. Registration required.

Cost: $50/40. Mount St. Mary Park, Prairie St. & Route 31, St. Charles. www.runsignup.com/race/il/saintcharles | Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals: 5/10K & Zippity Zoo Run | Sat, June 3, 7:30 p.m. A 5K or 10K followed by a halfmile children’s zoo run. Registration required. Cost: $30/15.

Cosley Zoo, 1356 N Gary Ave., Wheaton. 630 665-5534 | Run the Ridge | Sat, June 3, 8 a.m. Run or walk a 5K to benefit Proactive Kids, helping families battle childhood obesity. Registration required. Cost: $35/10. 150 Burr Ridge Pkwy., Burr Ridge. www.active.com

Wor th Going Downtown For Objects in the Mirror Through June 4, Wed – Sun; Also, Tue, May 23, 7:30 p.m. Following the life of a Liberian refugee, this play explores issues of identity, survival and the sacrifices of assimilation. www.harristheatrechicago.org.

Cost: $55/18. Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St., Chicago.

312 443-3800 Chicago Beer Classic Tue, May 6, 11:30 a.m. Enjoy one of Chicago’s largest beer festivals with hundreds of unique brews.

Cost: $105/60. Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr. Chicago.

312 235-7000 Ballet Chicago’s Platinum Anniversary Sat, May 6, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this company performs a world premiere by choreographer Frank Chaves.

Cost: $50/25. Harris Theatre, 205 E Randolph Dr., Chicago.

312 334-7777 Robot Revolution Mon – Sun, May 11 – Feb 4, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This national touring exhibit explores how robots change how we play, live and work together.

Tickets: www.msichicago.org. The Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago.

773 684-1414 Neil deGrasse Tyson Tue, May 16, 7:30 p.m. One night only with American astrophysicist, cosmologist, author and science communicator. Cost: $250/50.

Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 Adler After Dark: Planetary Prom Thur, May 18, 6:30 p.m.

Hands-on programs, theater shows, talks and more, along with dancing and refreshments.

Cost: $25/15. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago.

312 922-7827 Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg Fri – Sun, May 19 – 21, Fri – Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Inspired by celebrated Russian ballerina, Olga Spessivtseva, "Red Giselle" portrays her involvement in the world of Russian revolutionaries and her escape to Paris to dance the role of Giselle. Cost: $125/33.

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago. 800 982-2787 Zoo-ologie Sat, May 20, 8 p.m.

– midnight. Creations from the finest mixologists and chefs, plus live music and dancing with Hello Weekend and DJ Rock City.

Cost: $160/110. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St., Chicago. www.zoo-ologie.org Jean-Michel Jarre Mon, May 22, 7:30 p.m. Grammy-nominated artist and French electronic music composer. Cost: $100/38.

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago. 800 982-2787 MusicNOW 4 Mon, May 22, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the final concert of the season with a performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra of a new work by Mead Composer-in-Residence Elizabeth Ogonek. Cost: $27.

Harris Theatre, 205 E Randolph Dr., Chicago. 312 334-7777 Ricky Gervais Wed – Thur, May 24 – 25, 8 p.m. An evening with the star of "The Office" (UK) and popular stand-up comedian as he tours for the first time in seven years. Cost: $80/50. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago.

312 462-6300

George Benson & Kenny G Fri, May 26, 8 p.m. Celebrated guitarist and singer teams up with the famed saxophonist.

Cost: $154/69. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago.

312 462-6300 Jurassic World: The Exhibition Mon – Sun, May 26 – Jan 7, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Based on the blockbuster film, this exhibit features interactive educational activities and the real-world science of dinosaur DNA. Visit: www.fieldmuseum.org. The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago. 312 922-9410 Mel Brooks Sat, May 27, 3 p.m.

Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award-winning entertainer talks about the making of “Young Frankenstein.” Cost: $99/79.

Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 Neil Diamond Sun, May 28, 8 p.m. Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member celebrates his fivedecades-long career at this world tour concert. Cost: $130/60.

United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 U2 Sat, June 3, 7 p.m. Joined

by The Lumineers, this famed Irish rock band famous band celebrates the 30th anniversary of hit album “The Joshua Tree.”

Cost: $280/35. Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr. Chicago.

312 235-7000 Russell Watson Sat, June 10, 8 p.m. Celebrated English tenor performs classical opera and contemporary repertoire.

Cost: $72/37. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago.

800 775-2000

| Pet Walk & 5K Run | Sun, June 4, 8 a.m. A 5K run and pet walk, with vendor mall and family festival featuring celebrity emcee Judy Hsu. Registration required. Cost: $40/10. Katherine Legge Memorial Park, Along S County Line Rd. between E 57th & 60th Streets. 630 323-5630

ANIMALS | Sheep Shearing | Sun, May 7, 2 p.m. Master sheepshearer, Loren Marceau shears members of the flock. Graue Mill, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 655-2090 | Endangered Species Day | Sat, May 20, 10 a.m. − 2 p.m. Discover more about local and foreign endangered species with live animal interactions and more. Entry included in regular admission. Cost: $7/6.

Cosley Zoo, 1356 N Gary Ave., Wheaton. 630 665-5534 | Rare Breeds Show | Sun, May 21, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m.

Breeders from around the Midwest display rare and historic livestock. Cost: $6/3. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | Butterflies & Blooms | Mon − Sun, May 27 − Sept 4, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Exhibition with over 500 butterflies including species native to South America, Asia, North America, Africa and even Illinois. Cost: $6/4. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. 847 835-5440

ANTIQUES & CRAFTS | Nancy Neill Jewelry Trunk Show | Sun, May 7, 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m. View hand-crafted pieces created from found objects, beads, natural stones and more, all by local jewelry designer Nancy Neill. Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Stone Hunt | Sat, June 3, 2 p.m. Learn the differences between rocks and minerals in this hands-on children’s activity. Cost: $5. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1616

LITERATURE | Kristy Woodson Harvey | Mon, May 8, 5 − 7 p.m.

Author of Slightly South of SImple holds a book signing at SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens, 428 W. State St., Geneva. Call 630 232-1303 for reservations. | Gabourey Sidibe | Fri, May 12, 7 p.m. Oscarnominated star of “Precious” and “Empire” presents her book, This is Just My Face and talks about the unique characters she plays on screen. Anderson’s Bookshop,

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May 17 BARRY MANILOW Music icon whose record sales exceed 85 million worldwide plays his greatest hits as well as songs from his newest album.

Allstate Arena, Rosemont. Call 847 635-6601

123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville. 630 355-2665 | Rob Bell | Wed, May 17, 7 p.m. Founder of the Mars Hill Bible Church, this New York Times bestselling author talks about What is the Bible? For more information, visit www.andersonsbookshop.com. Cost: $30. Madden Theatre, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 355-2665 | David Garrow | Wed, May 18, 11 a.m. Pulitzer Prizewinning author presents Rising Star: The Making of Barack Obama, covering the years before Obama became the 44th president. For more information, visit www.andersonsbookshop.com. Cost: $40. The Standard Club, 320 S Plymouth Ct., Chicago. 630 355-2665 | Paula Hawkins | Fri, May 19, 7 p.m. Author of the New York Times bestseller The Girl on the Train returns with her new release Into the Water, a psychological suspense novel. Cost: $37. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln., Naperville. www.andersonsbookshop.com

LECTURES | Jennifer Keishin Armstrong | Tue, May 2, 7 p.m.

Television historian and entertainment writer deconstructs "Seinfeld" explaining how it changed television. Cost: $10. Frick Center, Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3390 | Daniel Mitsui: A Modern Medievalist | Mon − Sat, May 8 − July 30, Mon − Fri 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Religious artist Mitsui presents manuscript illumination prints. Komechak Art Gallery at Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 829-6320 | Midwest Early Childhood Educator Symposium | Sat, June 3, 8:45 a.m. − 3 p.m. The Northern Illinois Nature Preschool Association presents “Worth the Risk: Exploring the Rewards of Connecting Young Children to Nature,” a discussion geared towards advancing nature and early childhood environmental education. Registration required. Cost: $55. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 Information is as accurate as possible, but times and dates do sometimes change and events are occasionally canceled. Please call to verify all critical information. To have an event included in this guide, send information two to three months in advance to: Out & About, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or wsl@westsuburbanliving.net.

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Home Sweet Home Elmhurst

Downers Grove

Western Springs

ToP Towns Glen Ellyn

Naperville

Geneva

in the Western Suburbs 40 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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s

I

Realizing this, even providing f you consider your home to TOP 20 TOWNS OVERALL an overall list of top towns is be your castle, then the local to some extent subjective. Our neighborhood and surrounding Batavia Lisle selections are inevitably going county are of immense importance Burr Ridge Naperville to generate some disagreement. to your enjoyment of it. Many Clarendon Hills Oak Brook How come that town is included towns in the western suburbs Downers Grove Oak Park among the 20 favorites and mine have risen in popularity in recent Elmhurst River Forest wasn’t on the list, you might ask? years, and for good reason. People Geneva Riverside There is no easy answer because are proud and protective of the Glen Ellyn St. Charles those suburbs were selected based towns they call home, and so there on an analysis of a variety of criteria, is always a subjective element in Hinsdale Wayne some objective, as summarized in evaluating and comparing places to La Grange Western Springs the charts on the following pages, live. While some prefer wide-open Lemont Wheaton and some less so. That’s because spaces, others enjoy the hustle and certain quality-of-life attributes bustle of a busy main street.

— such as community ambiance — are hard to quantify and This year, we decided to avoid naming a single overall “top are valued differently from person to person. town,” choosing instead to provide a Top 20 list. We use rankings only when reported data on the 63 suburbs is quantitative That said, to the degree possible, our choices reflect those and easy to compare, with the exception of the Most Vibrant characteristics commonly valued by most everyone. Home Downtowns category, where subjective criteria are also factored in. values, for example, are a key criteria because for many, a home is not just a place of residence; it also represents a major financial People moving to a new town often do so with objective investment. Happily, over recent years, that investment has been data foremost in mind. Yet once a person settles in, he or she back on the rise, regardless which western suburb you call home, inevitably starts making friends and putting down roots. And with those roots comes an instinctive loyalty — just as you become as housing prices have gained momentum not just locally, part of a community, the town becomes a part of your identity. but nationally. We went to Midwest Real Estate Data, LLC

Big city amenities, small town feel . . .

Most Vibrant downtowns 1. Naperville

Median Home Value

Education/Schools

1. Hinsdale.........................................................$850,000

1. Hinsdale

2. Oak Park

2. Oak Brook .................................................. $555,000

2. Oak Brook

3. Geneva

3. Western Springs........................................$546,000

3. Clarendon Hills

4. La Grange

4. Burr Ridge .................................................... $533,500

4. Naperville

5. Elmhurst

5. River Forest...................................................$471,250

5. River Forest

6. Wheaton

6. Wayne...........................................................$465,000

6. Elmhurst

7. St. Charles

7. Clarendon Hills............................................$413,900

7. Western Springs

8. Aurora

8. Riverside.......................................................$405,000

8. Glen Ellyn

9. Glen Ellyn

9. Elmhurst........................................................$400,500

9. Geneva

10. Hinsdale

10. La Grange................................................... $399,000

10. La Grange

11. Downers Grove

11. Glen Ellyn..................................................... $365,000

11. Oak Park

12. Forest Park

12. Lemont..........................................................$364,916

12. Wheaton

13. Lisle

13. Naperville....................................................$356,945

13. Downers Grove

14. Western Springs

14. Oak Park .................................................... $340,600

14. Winfield

15. Lemont

15. Geneva..........................................................$325,000

15. Lisle

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BEST_TOWNS_05_17 FINAL.indd 41

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Best Places To Live Home/Values

Population/Diversity

TOWN

Pop. (2015)

Pop. Change (2010 - 15)

Pop. Non-White

Median Home Price (2016)

% Price Change (2012 - 16)

Education

Days on Market

Avg. H.S. ACT Scores (2016)

Library

H.S. Graduation Items Checked Total Holdings Rate Out (2016) and Collections

T

Addison

37,208

0.7% 47.% $218,000 38.1% 94

19

78.4% 352,288 146,919

A

aurora

200,661

1.4%

19

76.2%

545,936

a

bartlett

41,545

0.8% 23% $250,000 29.7% 83

22

93.3% 512,770 102,042

b

batavia

26,495

1.3%

8% $277,000 23.1% 83

24

95.2% 631,568 219,856

b

bensenville

18,440

0.5% 33% $189,450 61.2% 94

20

79.5% 72,000

60,000

b

91.1% 294,695 128,000

b

20

88.7% 1,105,034 392,042

b

73% 143,119 63,133

b

40%

$171,000

63.7%

73

1.2 million

bloomingdale

22,254

0.8% 20% $245,375 14.2%

21 (North) 87 20 (East)

bolingbrook

74,306

0.5%

82

brookfield

18,944 -0.2% 11% $228,500 42.7% 70

22

burr ridge

10,818

2.2% 20% $533,500 13.5% 173

22

94.9% N/A

carol stream

40,356

1.6% 29% $210,000 27.3% 70

21

90.4% 350,701 119,725

caro

clarendon hills

8,676

6.9% 10% $413,900 N/A 112

22

97.9% 89,000

c

darien

22,256

0.8% 19% $280,000 25% 80

22 95.5% 758,241 144,521

46% $199,900 35.1%

N/A

b

96,000

dari

downers grove

49,732

1.8%

11% $292,250 12.4%

24 (North) 103 22 (South)

elburn

5,748

2.6%

7% $268,000 N/A

113

elgin

112,111

3.7%

34% $175,000 N/A

18 (Elgin) 85 18 (Larkin)

elmhurst

45,957

4.1%

10% $400,500 32.5% 100

forest park

14,123

0.3% 45% $190,500 N/A

89

24

92.5% 148,750 137,616

f

geneva

21,806

1.4%

93

24

97.7% 669,611 174,519

g

glen ellyn

28,201

21 (South) 1.6% 13% $365,000 22.8% 103 24 (West)

95.3% 610,656 167,002

g

glendale heights

34,435

0.7% 47% $164,000 51.5% 70

24

80.6% 306,015 108,970

g

hinsdale

17,628

4.8% 10% $850,000 13.3% 153

27

98.2% 338,806 155,650

hinsda

HOFFMAN ESTATES

52,138

0.5%

13

21

91.8%

h

itasca

8,798

1.7% 16% $263,000 N/A

74

22

91.5% 107,193

Joliet

147,861

1.1%

73

la grange

15,723

1.1% 10% $399,000 18.4% 112

24

95.6% 280,542 146,867

l

La grange park

13,608

0.2% 10% $319,370 N/A

87

24

94.8% 177,789 197,411

l

lemont

16,788

4.4%

4% $364,916 23.7% 132

23

93.7% 157,387

81,865

l

lisle

22,964

-2.3% 22% $260,500 74% 79

22 95.5% 520,494 166,333

l

5% $325,000 14%

36%

33%

$239,000

$142,000

46.6%

42%

96.4% 1,036,494 290,122

down

98.1% 103,099

54,364

e

77.9% 1,495,649 531,893

e

25

95.6% 1,296,435 306,780

e

22

18 (Central)

20 (West)

83.4%

N/A

N/A 83,331

799,562 472,782

695,000 94.5% Inc. Romeoville

itasca

jo

290,000 Inc. Romeoville

l

lockport

25,175

1.2% 6% $180,000 21.7% 81

22

lombard

43,797

0.9% 19% $225,843 35.1% 69

20

94.4% 540,000 180,000

l

montgomery

19,489

6.1% 25% $177,900 42.1% 69

19

85.5% N/A

montgom

naperville

147,100

3.5%

23%

$356,945

42 MAY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

BEST_TOWNS_05_17 FINAL.indd 42

9.8%

25 (Central) 25 ((North) 92 26 (Neuqua)

96.7%

2,841,677

N/A 462,213

Sources: U.S. Census 2015; Midwest Real Estate Data LLC (2016 Report); ISBE 2016 School Report Cards; individual libraries

4/24/17 4:48 PM

nap

Sou dat

rt); ies

Best Places To Live Public Safety

TOWN

Violent Crime/ Property Crime/ Murders 2015 Burglary 2015

Total Crimes per 100 Pop.

Location

Total Crime Index 2015

Avg. Commute Time (mins)

Proximity to O’Hare (mi)

Proximity to Chicago (mi)

Parks

INCOME

Total Park Acreage

Median Household Income (Jul. 2016)

Addison

85/1

726/92

0.44

1,624

26.4 15

23

284 $59,948

aurora

650/9

3,089/471

0.37

7,490

28.2

34

38

2,433 $63,618

bartlett

26/0

191/10

0.1

435

33.7

26

36

597 $109,412

batavia

28/0

349/21

0.29

757

28.7

38

42

350 $112,823

bensenville

18/0

223/31

0.26

482

27.7

7

22

355 $53,700

bloomingdale

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

28.8 20

28

160 $97,746

bolingbrook

136/2

991/79

0.3

2,255

31.8

30

1,087 $95,395

brookfield

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

30.3 18

15

N/A $88,810

burr ridge

2/0

90/12

0.17

184

31.3 21

20

79 $177,127

carol stream

60/0

384/50

0.22

891

29.2 21

34

460 $88,714

clarendon hills

1/0

53/4

0.13

110

31.1 18

22

45 $159,740

darien

11/0

344/30

0.32

711

30.2 23

24

156 $77,180

downers grove

29/0

376/77

0.3

1,416

29.1

20

24

602 $110,293

elburn

N/A

N/A

N/A 32.3

56

49

54.6 $105,561

elgin

261/3

1,488/256

0.31

3,509

28.5

27

42

1,610 $61,301

elmhurst

13/0

486/64

0.22

999

28.4

11

19

462 $123,859

forest park

42/0

505/55

0.77

1,094

geneva

11/0

205/20

0.2

glen ellyn

24/0

275/37

glendale heights

49/0

hinsdale

N/A

31

32.8 17 10

16 $53,311

434

29.3

38

42

700 $125,557

0.21

599

28.6

24

28

216 $129,767

561/53

0.35

1,219

25.9 22

30

180 $62,604

0/0

171/24

0.2

349

31.2

17

21

132 $238,404

hOFFMAN ESTATES

39/0

428/68

0.18

935

29.7 17

32

702 $80,956

itasca

4/0

104/10

0.25

217

28 11 25

43 $98,926

joliet

461/10 3,555/837 0.55

8,086

29.4

32

34

1,650 $60,976

la grange

11/0

136/33

0.19

294

30.4 18

18

75 $144,282

la grange park

3/0

79/5

0.12

164

30.2 17

17

26 $103,054

lemont

5/0

176/21

0.22

366

32.3

29

28

117 $112,238

lisle

17/0

193/32

0.18

421

29.2

23

27

384 $100,291

lockport

10/1

231/34

0.19

484

33.9 36

35

900 $80,480

lombard

48/0

855/77

0.41

1,809

26.8 20

21 441 $70,391

montgomery

23/0

245/35

0.28

537

31.2

39

43

naperville

128/0

1,652/161

0.24

3,563

33.6

28

32

Sources: Illinois Census, July 2016; 2016; 2015 FBI Uniform Crime Report, www.citydata.com; www.usa.com; Illinois Association of Park Districts; individual park districts

BEST_TOWNS_05_17 FINAL.indd 43

N/A

$76,001

2,500 $140,252

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 43

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Best Places To Live

TOWN

Education

Home/Values

Population/Diversity Pop. (2015)

Pop. Change (2010 - 15)

Pop. Non-White

Median Home Price (2016)

% Price Change (2012 - 16)

north aurora

17,456

8.1%

19%

$215,000

22.9%

north riverside

6,665

-0.1% 19% $223,450 N/A

73

22

oak brook

8,091

2.6%

28%

154

25

96.7%

oak park

52,287

0.8%

32% $340,600 24.3% 84

24

96.5% 1.319,540 295,431

oakbrook terrace

2,252

0.9%

38%

$224,000

N/A

75

25

95.6%

N/A

N/A

oswego

33,955

11.9%

14%

$227,500

30.7%

75

22

96.1%

927,536

340,720

plainfield

42,527

23 (Plainfield) 16.7% 18% $221,500 30.4% 74 21 (South)

river forest

11,199

0.2% 15% $471,250 N/A 115

24 96.6% 235,000 94,000

riverside

8,835

-0.5% 18% $405,000 N/A 148

22 96.4% 129,869 77,917

romeoville

39,719

0.3%

44%

20

roselle

22,994

1.1%

16% $228.450 38.5% 71

22

rosemont

4.305

27%

22

St. charles

33,460

24 (East) 1.6% 11% $289,450 7.2% 114 24 (North)

schaumburg

74,693

0.6%

shorewood

16,747

1%

7.3%

30%

$555,000

$159,900

$105,000

$185,500

8.8%

41.8%

N/A

40.2%

Days on Market

Avg. H.S. ACT Scores (2016)

Library

17 (East) 95 19 (West)

63

22

64

22

H.S. Graduation Items Checked Total Holdings Rate Out (2016) and Collections

92.1%

200,000

120,000

93% 129,564 76,364 106,243

97,201

95.4% 657,375 217,163

Included with Included with 86.7%

Lockport total Lockport total

00% 228,428 144,039 94.1%

N/A

N/A

93.7% 586,134 390,830 94%

2,449,750

568,569

12% $230,000 14.7%

18 (Central 70 20 (West)

93.4% 160,000 53,000

21 (Elgin) 85 18 (Larkin)

92.4%

south elgin

22,365

1.7%

19%

streamwood

40,554

1.7%

44% $170,000 53.2% 70

19 85.8% 389,889 233,247

sugar grove

9,512

5.7%

7% $262,500 25% 93

22 96.6% 113,405 54,020

villa park

21,969

0.3%

19% $197,000 48.7% 79

21 90.9% 271,768 104,318

warrenville

13,317

1.1%

18%

$196,000

N/A

60

24

91.5%

228,989

101,462

wayne

2,318

-0.9%

5%

$465,000

N/A

207

24

97.4%

N/A

N/A

West chicago

27,447

0.9% 32% $228,000 67% 110

19

westchester

16,729

0.1% 25% $222,000 41% 81

17 92.5% 96,739 75,763

western springs

13,369

3%

3%

$546,000

28.5%

109

24

98.9%

256,405

83,535

westmont

24,941

1.1%

27%

$228,500

36.8%

77

21

93.4%

304,689

97,107

wheaton

53,715

1.4%

13%

$301,250

10.9%

23 (North) 94

96.2%

1,136,701

302,146

willowbrook

8,613

0.8%

11% $196,500 70.9% 92

21 96.4% N/A

winfield

9,657

6.4%

9%

$275,000

N/A

96

23

96%

93,588

59,420

wood dale

13,917

1.1%

16%

$219,000

N/A

97

20

88.2%

140,775

171,595

woodridge

33,370

1.2%

28%

$250,000

42.9%

78

22

95.9%

631,777

166,051

yorkville

18,451

9.1%

9% $222,625 43.9% 89

$191,000

24.8%

24 (South)

N/A

N/A

73% 230,420 135,403

N/A

21 95.3% 94,213 60,873

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Best Places To Live Public Safety

TOWN

Violent Crime/ Property Crime/ Murders 2015 Burglary 2015

Location

Total Crimes per 100 Pop.

Total Crime Index 2015

Avg. Commute Time (mins)

Proximity to O’Hare (mi)

Proximity to Chicago (mi)

Parks

Income

Total Park Acreage

Median Household Income (Jul. 2016)

north aurora

13/0

221/35

0.27

468

26.5

36

40

N/A

$105,066

north riverside

15/0

411/10

1.28

852

23.2

18

13

N/A

$56,925

oak brook

10/0

499/23

1.26

1,018

26.7

15

19

72

$194,357

oak park

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

32.9

11

10

94

$114,428

oakbrook terrace

3/0

98/11

0.9

202

26.8 16 18 38 $65,833

oswego

26/0

458/33

0.29

969

33.4

41

4

plainfield

39/1

348/44

0.18

776

36.8

40

39

river forest

19/1

260/75

0.5

561

30.4

10

11

28

$181,150

riverside

57/0

83/11

0.32

280

30.1

19

13

155

$129,233

romeoville

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

32.6

33

32

297

$66,955

roseLLE

16/1

152/18

0.15

672

28.1

3

17

14

$78,323

rosEMONT

35/1

301/10

1.56

342

22.5

16

30

N/A

$36,430

st. charles

22/0

407/42

0.26

860

29.9

35

43

schaumburg

55/1

1,820/127

0.5

3,752

28.2

14

29 1,100 $91,128

shorewood

17/2

198/22

0.25

430

31.6 45

44

162 $110,743

south elgin

18/0

264/18

0.25

564

30.7 29

44

361 $100,440

streamwood

50/0

580/50

0.31

1,261

32.1

23

34

354

$72,704

sugar grove

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

33

42

46

90

$125,103

villa park

21/0

399/21

0.38

840

27.2

14

19

125

$67,903

warrenville

13/0

118/12

0.2

262

25.9

28

32

29

$ 97,114

wayne

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

36.7

30

38

56

$185,937

west chicago

22/1

358/67

0.28

763

24.4

25

38

396

$92,318

westchester

14/0

222/39

0.28

473

30.1 14 14 54 $67,912

western springs

1/0

42/10

0.06

86

32.5 17

20

N/A $179,237

westmont

23/0

326/51

0.28

703

28.1

23

173

wheaton

23/0

388/60

0.15

827

26.5 25

29

833 $117,260

willowbrook

13/0

138/15

0.35

302

28.3 21 23 56 $98,168

winfield

3/0

27/4

0.06

60

wood dale

7/0

171/23

0.26

356

27.1

woodridge

31/1

374/40

0.24

817

31.2 26 30 620 $97,959

yorkville

22/0

159/21

0.2

363

34.2

19

991

$111,593

1,423 $122,797

1,074 $84,993

$59,156

30 24 34 68 $117,285 8

50

25

54

136

380

$60,629

$96,858

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TOP TOWNS IN WHICH TO LIVE

Wayne

Hinsdale

to obtain information on current home values and how they’ve changed during the past five years. Just five years ago, most suburbs saw double-digit percentage decreases in value; today’s figures are overwhelmingly positive.

Schools and education are also deemed critically important, not just for families with kids, but also as an indicator of stability of the community as a whole. We excerpted information from the Illinois State Board of Education annual high school report cards. A comparison of ACT scores and graduation rates provides a general sense of the quality of the schools. We then factored in other considerations. Several area towns, for example, are home to colleges or universities and they provide the surrounding community with access to life-long learning opportunities, as well as cultural and artistic resources.

Public safety is another universally valued attribute. For that information, we accessed data from the most recent FBI and Illinois State Police Universal Crime Reports, comparing

Plainfield

statistical information on the frequency of violent crime, as well as each community’s overall crime index.

There are a number of other characteristics of a community that are considered beneficial as well, albeit to varying degrees — things like great parks, a vibrant downtown area, good libraries and diverse shopping options.

A

fter comparing and weighing the data, we came up with our list of 20 Top Towns. Most, to greater or lesser degrees, share certain characteristics, such as strong home values, excellent schools, easy access to Chicago, O’Hare and Midway airports and major expressways, and attractive downtown areas. Each of the these suburbs earned its place by scoring consistently well across all categories. Interestingly, the list includes both large cosmopolitan suburbs like Naperville and quaint villages like Wayne. This reveals that, when all is said and done, we all seek many of the same things — steady

FIVE-year home value change

fewest VIOLENT CRIMEs/MURDERS

fewest Total crimes

1. Lisle............................................................ 74%

1. Hinsdale .....................................................0/0

1. Winfield........................................................60

2. Willowbrook........................................71%

2. Clarendon Hills........................................1/0

2. Western Springs......................................86

3. West Chicago......................................67%

Western Springs.....................................1/0

3. Clarendon Hills.........................................110

4. Aurora.....................................................64%

4. Burr Ridge.................................................2/0

4. La Grange Park.........................................164

5. Bensenville.............................................61%

5. La Grange Park........................................3/0

5. Burr Ridge .................................................184

6. Streamwood....................................... 53%

Oakbrook Terrace.................................3/0

6. Oakbrook Terrace.................................202

7. Glendale Heights................................ 51%

Winfield.....................................................3/0

7. Itasca.............................................................217

8. Villa Park................................................49%

8. Itasca...........................................................4/0

8. Riverside................................................... 280

9. Hoffman Estates................................ 47%

9. Lemont.......................................................5/0

9. La Grange..................................................294

10. Yorkville ..............................................44%

10. Wood Dale..............................................7/0

10. Willowbrook..........................................302

11. Brookfield ............................................43%

11. Oak Brook ............................................. 10/0

11. Rosemont.................................................342

Montgomery ......................................43%

12. Darien ......................................................11/0

12. Hinsdale....................................................349

Woodridge............................................43%

Geneva.......................................................11/0

13. Wood Dale..............................................356

Romeoville ........................................42%

La Grange..................................................11/0

14. Yorkville....................................................363

15. Westchester ......................................41%

15. Willowbrook.........................................13/0

15. Lemont.....................................................366

No MRED % change median home values available for Clarendon Hills, Elburn, Elgin, Forest Park, Itasca, Joliet, Lombard, North Riverside, Oakbrook Terrace, River Forest, Riverside, Rosemont, Villa Park, Wayne, Winfield or Wood Dale. No FBI Uniform Crime Reports available for Bloomingdale, Brookfield, Elburn, Oak Park, Romeoville, Sugar Grove or Wayne.

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Oak Park

St. Charles

home values, an attractive downtown, diverse shopping, great parks, an exceptional library system and strong schools.

As with all cross-community comparisons, this one has its flaws. It can’t take into consideration the value of good neighbors, or a great block, or any number of special circumstances that may make your town ideally suited to your needs.

If, for example, you prefer more of a small town ambiance and safety is a high priority, Hinsdale is an especially good town in which to live. It has the least amount of crime reported in any area community and, as an added bonus, has sustained high home values — even in comparison to Chicago’s north suburbs — over the past five years. Other smaller, more rural communities like Clarendon Hills and Wayne also have very low crime rates, as do Western Springs, Burr Ridge and La Grange Park.

For those who work in Chicago, proximity to the city and easy access to Metra and/or the CTA might be the most important

Wheaton

consideration. Oak Park, River Forest, Riverside and La Grange are all excellent options. Since all are older towns, they also offer tree-lined streets and historic architecture. And for those looking for racial and cultural diversity, Oak Park is often cited as a community that especially embraces people of all backgrounds.

Living closer to the city means more traffic and congestion, which can be a major negative for those who prefer wide open spaces. These folks will likely be more comfortable further west in Fox River communities like Geneva and St. Charles, or southwest in Oswego, Yorkville, Plainfield or Lockport. All have preserved open space through their extensive park systems.

Ultimately, each and every community in the western suburbs is a top town if it meets the priorities of its residents. Statistics can provide helpful comparisons and insights, but numbers can never capture the essence of a community. Indeed, the most important factors that make a town special — friends, family, neighbors, shared experiences — simply can’t be measured. n

PARKS: TOTAL ACRES

LIBRARY: TOTAL HOLDINGS AND COLLECTIONS

AVERAGE COMMUTE TIME (IN MINUTES)

1. Naperville....................................... 2,500 2. Aurora................................................2,433 3. Joliet................................................... 1,650 4. Elgin......................................................1,610 5. Plainfield........................................... 1,423 6. Bolingbrook....................................1,087 7. St. Charles....................................... 1,074 8. Schaumburg..................................... 1,100 9. Oswego............................................... 991 10. Lockport ........................................ 900 11. Wheaton.............................................833 12. Hoffman Estates............................702 13. Geneva.............................................. 700 14. Woodridge..................................... 620 15 . Downers Grove ......................... 602

1. Schaumburg............................................... 568,565 2. Aurora............................................................545,936 3. Elgin................................................................. 531,893 4. Joliet................................................................472,782 5. Naperville.....................................................462,213 6. Bolingbrook...............................................392,042 7. St. Charles ..................................................390,830 8. Elmhurst.......................................................306,780 9. Wheaton......................................................302, 146 10. Oak Park .....................................................295,431 11. Downers Grove.........................................290,122 12. Lockport/Romeoville (comb.)........290,000 13. Lombard ......................................................235,150 14. Streamwood..............................................233,247 15. Batavia ..........................................................219,856

1. Rosemont...............................................22.5 2. North Riverside....................................23.2 3. West Chicago........................................24.4 4. Glendale Heights................................25.9 Warrenville ...........................................25.9 6. Addison...................................................26.4 7. North Aurora.........................................26.5 Wheaton.................................................26.5 9. Oak Brook...............................................26.7 10. Lombard.................................................26.8 Oakbrook Terrace...............................26.8 12. Wood Dale............................................27.2 Villa Park ................................................27.2 14. Bensenville............................................27.7 15. Itasca ....................................................... 28

No park acreage data available for Brookfield, Elburn,North Aurora, North Riverside, Rosemont or Western Springs; no library data available for Burr Ridge, Hoffman Estates, Montgomery, Oakbrook Terrace, Rosemont, South Elgin, Wayne or Willowbrook

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Beautiful Baths Five shining examples

of stylish and soothing retreats

By Lisa Sloan

B

Photos courtesy of Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio

athroom projects are among the most sought-after home improvements. And it’s no wonder — creating a visually pleasing and highly functional bath with updated amenities not only increases the value of your home, but also pays dividends in terms of your well-being. It’s in the bathroom, after all, where you prepare for and unwind from the stresses of the day.

Today’s top trends in bathroom remodeling include wet rooms, freestanding bathtubs, clean minimalist cabinetry, mixed metals, decorative tiles and unique mirrors and lighting. Here, five contemporary bathrooms highlight the partnerships between designers and homeowners while incorporating some of those trends.

Easy Elegance Homeowners: Dave & Susan Reedy, Glen Ellyn Design: Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio, Glen Ellyn

What They Wanted Susan Reedy of Glen Ellyn was ready for a change in her master bath. It had several issues, including an oversized whirlpool tub, cold floors and an outmoded appearance. “Our goal was to update the look while still keeping the natural light and vaulted ceilings,” says Susan. “We also wanted to upgrade the plumbing and put radiant heat in the floors.”

How They Achieved It “The room was very compartmentalized,” says designer Gail Drury of Drury Design

Kitchen & Bath Studio in Glen Ellyn, who worked with the couple. The small, high-ceilinged space had included a shower stall and enclosed commode as well as vanities on two walls. Removing interior walls and replacing the tub with a freestanding unit positioned in the center of the room, with a glass-encased shower and commode area behind it, freed up space for dual vanities on the opposite wall.

Marble-look porcelain tile on the walls and floor, along with textured thermofoil cabinets topped with waterfall-edge

counters and vessel sinks, give the room a simple, sophisticated look. Storage needs are served with drawers and open shelving as well as a countertop drawer.

Susan finds it difficult to settle on just one thing she enjoys most about the bathroom, but the shower design, which accommodates the vaulted ceiling, and the lighting are near the top of her list.

“The lighting is amazing,” she says, noting the under-cabinet lighting as well as the crystal fixture above the tub. “When left dimly lit, it makes for a very pretty, elegant room.”

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Beautiful Baths

Photos courtesy of LaMantia Design

Light Effect Homeowners: Mark & Mary Henneman, Hinsdale Design: LaMantia Design & Remodeling,

Though the remodel was prompted by a needed repair, it gave the couple the opportunity to improve the space. “I wanted a freestanding tub, a more open shower and updated finishes,” says Mary of her wish list.

Hinsdale

What They Wanted The master bath in Mark and Mary Henneman’s Hinsdale home was “frontloaded with bulky things,” says designer Jackie Prazak of LaMantia Design & Remodeling in Hinsdale. Prazak, who worked with the couple on the project, was referring to a shower stall and linen closet adjacent to the room’s entrance.

How They Achieved It Moving the shower from one end of the room to the other gave the space the illusion of being much bigger. “That totally changed things,” says Mary. “It opened everything up and accentuated the high ceilings.”

The new open-entry shower features a glass surround and glass and stone mosaic accent tile. It’s set apart from the vanity by

a subway-tiled half wall. Dark cabinets and marble-look porcelain tile paired with gray walls give the room a calming feel.

The sought-after soaking tub was situated in the space in front of the windows.

Mary encourages others remodeling to take a chance on a unique element, like the hanging light fixture that adorns the center of the room. “Before we put it up, my husband referred to it as the ‘Death Star,’ but once we saw it in place, it was beautiful,” she says.

The couple loves the revitalized room and so do visitors to their home. “It’s one of those baths where people walk in and say, ‘Wow,’” says Mary.

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Photos courtesy of Reliable Home Improvement

Sea Change Homeowner: Bob Harsch, Winfield Design: Reliable Home Improvement, Naperville

What They Wanted There wasn’t much that Bob Harsch liked about his Winfield master bath. “It was small and terribly designed. It was built in 1995, but looked like it was built in 1965,” he says. He wanted a bright, spa-like retreat that included a large shower and a splash of color.

How They Achieved It With the guidance of designer Sabah Ajami of Reliable Home Improvement in Naperville, Bob gutted the room, borrowing a bit of space from a seldom-used vanity area in the adjacent master bedroom. This

allowed for a roomy, glass-enclosed shower. Swapping the oversized tub deck for a freestanding soaking tub highlighted the existing window and freed up space for a dual vanity.

Because the wall-mounted vanity cabinets don’t extend to the floor, they add to the airy aura of the room, notes Ajami.

Other materials include patterned-glass vessel sinks, satin nickel fixtures and wood-look porcelain tile floors.

A border of glass accent tiles in a sea-green hue lend a bit of Caribbean

flavor, which Bob played up by including vivid island photography that originally hung elsewhere in the home. “It was after the fact, but the colors match and even the frames match the mirror frames,” says Bob, who couldn’t be happier with the update, particularly the new palette and spacious shower. “It turned out nice and I definitely enjoy it,” he says.

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Photos courtesy of McDowell Remodeling

Beautiful Baths

Polished Gem Homeowners: Dick & Karen Wake, St. Charles Design: McDowell Remodeling, St. Charles

What They Wanted With three grown daughters who live out of state and fly in to visit their empty nest, Dick and Karen Wake wanted to turn a hall bath in their St. Charles home into a junior master suite, complete with the style and amenities typically found in a master bath.

How They Achieved It Expanding the bath slightly into the guest room allowed McDowell Remodeling to create a wet room — a shower and freestanding soaking tub

enclosed within the same space, says Sue McDowell. “It was a way of taking a standard bath and making it extra special, which shows that you can do a lot in a smaller space.”

Concrete vanity countertops, brushed nickel fixtures, mirrors with a jagged edge, honed ceramic floor and wall tiles and dusky amethyst-colored glass accent

tiles combine to create a soothing, luxurious atmosphere. A new glass-block window admits natural light while maintaining privacy.

Karen likes the finished product so well that she’s claimed it as her own when it’s not needed for guests. “It’s lovely — such a serene and light-filled room. I find myself gravitating to it.”

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u h K h g E u e o t a o d a

H

e w

Photos courtesy of Imperial Kitchens and Baths, Inc.

Photos courtesy of McDowell Remodeling

Universally Lovely Homeowners: Larry & Fran Rych, Elmhurst Design: Imperial Kitchens and Baths, Brookfield

What They Wanted After attending several courses on universal design in an effort to better serve his clients, Larry Rych, owner of Imperial Kitchens and Baths, decided to put what he learned to use when remodeling the guest bath in his own 100-year-old Elmhurst home. The concept behind universal design involves creating an environment that is accessible for people of all ages and abilities, and Larry wanted to meet those standards while also creating a beautiful space that suited the character of his old house. “I wanted it to be a design-forward room with no stigma attached,” he says.

l How They Achieved It Working within the footprint of the existing room, Larry replaced the bathtub with a shower featuring café-style doors,

a barrier-free entry, a roomy bench and a personal showerhead in addition to overhead body sprays.

A pedestal sink with ladder legs has a vintage look as well as being wheelchair accessible. The mirror above it features gimbals so it can be adjusted downward, if needed. To make up for the lack of under-sink storage, Larry added a built-in linen cabinet that includes storage drawers and open shelving.

Cherry paneling on the walls gives the room a cozy English-library ambience and

the porcelain tile flooring and shower surround has a sandy pattern, accented by multiple sizes and hues of blue glass accent tile. A clerestory window admits natural light, which is augmented by wall sconces and overhead recessed lighting controlled by a dimmer switch for scene effects.

Larry and his wife Fran are pleased with the overall aesthetic of the finished space, as are their guests. “People always comment on how beautiful it is — no one recognizes it as a space suited for someone with a disability,” he says. n

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Photo courtesy of The Growing Place

Classy and Sassy Thrillers, fillers and spillers in bloom

Containers

Photo courtesy of The Growing Place

I

by Sara Pearsaul Vice

t’s May at last, and we can put away our fears of frost — at least after May 15 — and start planting for summer. The big excitement for gardeners every May is the chance to finally get our hands on annual plants, especially flowering varieties, which feature so prominently in containers. Creativity is all the rage these days, with amazing new plant varieties and gorgeous containers just waiting to be filled.

“It used to be you put in a spike, a red geranium and a vinca vine and you were pretty much done,” recalls Joe Heidgen, co-owner of Shady Hill Gardens in Elburn. While Heidgen says that classic combination is still popular, new plant pairings and varieties are taking over from traditional selections.

He likes to use plants that are bred for containers, such as the more controllable versions of sweet potato vine called Sweet Caroline and Illusion, and million bells or calibrachoa that look like mini-petunias and flower like crazy. But even old-fashioned plants can be unique. Shady Hill specializes in growing unusual varieties of geraniums, such as Pandora, a pretty-in-pink version that dates back to the 1800s, as well as scented geraniums and fancy leaf varieties.

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Photo courtesy of Shady Hill Gardens

What Mom Really Wants for Mother’s Day Here’s a little secret: Mother’s Day is not only the biggest day of the year for dining out — it’s also the biggest day for garden centers. If you want the best selection of flowering plants, it’s best to shop before May 14. Here’s a preview of what garden centers will be offering as special Mother’s Day gifts.

Hanging baskets Look up while you wander through the garden center and contemplate your choices of hanging baskets for sun or shade. You’ll see plastic containers as well as cone shapes and wire frames with coco liners. At Lizzie’s Garden in Naperville, some hanging baskets will be monoculture, such as all geraniums or begonias, while their Victorian baskets will feature a mixture of plants such as impatiens with euphorbia.

Potted flowers and pre-planted containers

Photo courtesy of Platt Hill Nursery

At Platt Hill Nursery, Matt Davison says, “We make nice wicker baskets with plants in individual pots, covered with Spanish moss.” They also offer smaller combinations such as a dish garden with a flower and a bit of foliage, and even smaller items “if a child wants to buy it by himself for mommy.”

The Growing Place puts together “romantic” baskets with blooming flowers and herbs, which come with a recipe for using herbs in food preparation.

Pansy bowls are popular at Wasco Nursery for gifts, as are pre-planted containers in general and fairy gardens in particular, which are small-scale gardens in containers with tiny plants and accessories like furniture, fences and, of course, fairies.

Garden center gift certificates Joe Heidgen of Shady Hill may have the best idea of all. “We see mothers here alone, and their gift is a gift certificate. They say, ‘I like to shop by myself without my husband or children to make me hurry.’”

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Principles of Good Design You may recognize a beautiful container design when you see it, but how do you create one? According to Debra Phillips, landscape designer and owner of Scentimental Gardens and SG Geneva, the home’s architecture should dictate the type of containers and plantings you select.

“You want to match the flower colors and the container and the chosen plants,” she says. “All three components should mirror the architecture.”

Phillips, who draws inspiration from her travels as well as her work in home design, often includes elements that are unusual to containers. “One of my favorites is a big massive urn with a vintage horse hitching post driven into the middle.” She also favors simple designs such as oversized olive jars planted only with lavender to stand at the front door, and urns ornamented with a statement piece, such as a statue, obelisk or wire

sphere, along with the plants.

For containers that combine more than one type of plant, Clark Hudmon, manager of the Barn Owl Garden Center in Carol Stream, says, “The rule of thumb is to use a filler, a thriller and a spiller.

Usually the center plant is tall, such as elephant ears or canna, the filler might be a classic petunia to add a little bit of color, and the spiller is usually ivy, such as Swedish ivy. I like to put lettuce or herbs in mine as the thriller. There’s nothing better than to have fresh vegetables or herbs in your garden.” He also suggests strawberries as a spiller, which is particularly popular with children.

“Base your designs on the container,” advises Tom Weaver, horticulturist at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, who teaches classes on container gardening. “If it is an elaborate urn with lots of pattern, go with simple plants. If you have a plain terra cotta pot or a glazed pot with a single

color, go wild with your combination of plants.” The containers at the Chicago Botanic Garden this summer will be planted around the theme of Brazil in the Garden, which Weaver describes as “very tropical, with big, bold foliage.”

Picking the Right Plants Garden centers are overflowing with an abundance of plants and containers of all kinds. But before we rush in, we must consider the basics of growing container gardens. If you are combining different plants in a single container, their growing habits must be compatible with each

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Sassy and Classy Containers amount of sun exposure.

If you have to fill shady spots with containers, you will be happy to see that growers have boosted color in shade plants with fancy, multicolored foliage in coleus and brilliant bloomers like begonias. For shade, Weaver of the Chicago Botanic Garden likes New Guinea impatiens, coleus and acorus ‘Ogon,’ a bright green grass. “I don’t recommend the traditional impatiens because of downy mildew,” he says of the pesky disease that tends to come back year after year and wreak havoc.

Laura Kirin, who manages the

containers will not last through the winter.

You will need to transplant them into the ground in the fall.

How much moisture? Plants have different needs for watering, so be sure to pair plants that require the same amount of moisture. Some plants require watering daily or even twice daily in the heat of summer, while others like succulents must have drier conditions.

The amount of water needed also will depend on the type of container you choose. Matt Davison, general manager of Platt Hill Nursery in Bloomingdale, observes that container choices are

Photo courtesy of Blumen Gardens

Photo courtesy of Botanic Gardens

other and suited to your garden’s growing conditions.

Lizzie Holmberg, co-owner of Lizzie’s Garden in Naperville, advises that you select plants based on their ability to thrive in your garden. “From my standpoint, performance is most important. Studies show that people really get upset if they plant something and it doesn’t work.”

For summer-long performance, she notes, “Heat tolerant plants are really important.

Even a simple geranium basket is just beautiful all season long and into fall.”

For containers, she likes to incorporate interesting new varieties such as Night Sky

Wooden crates make for decorative containers that can blend with the landscape, while oversized baskets can add color to a porch or entryway.

petunias, Crazytunias, Prince Tut dwarf papyrus, EverLast dianthus and Green Ball dianthus.

How much sun? The first consideration in plant selection is the location of the planters and how much sun each will receive each day. We must not fool ourselves that a couple hours of sun is enough to satisfy sun-loving plants.

Experts say that at least six hours is the definition of full sun. If your container will get that much sun, you’ll want to combine plants that require the same

container design department at The Growing Place in Naperville, encourages people to combine perennials with annuals in their containers. “When you pick a perennial, since it only blooms once in the season, it’s best to base your choice on the foliage.” She favors heuchera (coral bells), perennial grasses and groundcovers that can trail over the side of the planter.

“Perennials are good transitional plants.

You can put in a heuchera in the spring and it will still look nice all season.” That said, she cautions that perennials in

expanding every year. “Some of the newer ones coming out are fiberglass or concrete with fiberglass, really unique ceramics, cement pots, and cast iron pots,” he says.

“Metal is starting to get more popular.”

Wooden containers are also making a comeback.

You will want to select containers with drainage holes so that plants don’t get too soggy. Window boxes and wire baskets with coco liners will dry out more quickly than glazed pots. Davison recommends adding SoilMoist to potting soil, which

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Photos courtesy of Scentimental Gardens Photo courtesy of Botanic Gardens

Flowers and plants artfully arranged in containers add summer-long color around the garden.

retains water and releases it when needed.

How much maintenance? Very few home gardeners have the time to fuss with maintenance, so it is important to understand how much tending, watering and fertilizing are required for the plants you pick. You can guarantee a better result when you use the right potting soil mix (never garden soil) and incorporate a slow-release fertilizer.

Help from the professionals Garden center staffers, garden designers and landscape firms offer an array of services for container gardening — from planting containers at your home to special orders for pick-up and even on-the-spot planting at the garden center itself, whether you do it yourself in the potting shed or enlist an expert.

“We have designers here if customers want help with plant combinations,” explains Kim Schroeder, landscape designer and perennial manager at Wasco Nursery in St. Charles. “People also can come here and purchase the pot and plant

material and someone will help put it together.” You are also welcome to bring your own container to most garden centers for help with planting.

At Blumen Gardens in Sycamore, designer Laura O’Loughlin helps shoppers pick out plants and offers advice on tried and true combinations. She also encourages people to experiment. “I may suggest a dwarf conifer for height, rather than a grass or spike, or a few curly willow branches,” she says. “People are afraid to put too many plants in a container, but really you can jam it full. It looks better and they only grow for three or four months.”

If you’d rather not be involved in the design process, garden centers offer all sorts of pre-planted containers and “slip-ins,” which are plant combinations in plastic pots designed to fit into standard container sizes. The Growing Place showcases sample containers next to colorful, painted doors, where you can get inspired with out-of-the-ordinary color combinations and find the plants you need right in front of you.

With all the plants and planters available in May, the hardest thing you may have to do is to decide. 

3RD ANNUAL DESIGN HOUSE A Love Your Neighbor special event

May 4th 4pm-9pm (preview night) $40 May 5th 9am-5pm $25 Explore and purchase the latest design trends for your home.

Located at 129 N. West St. in Wheaton, this 100 year old home features the work of designers from across the western suburbs.

Proceeds benefit Love Your Neighbor, a local nonprofit founded on the principle of sharing God’s unconditional love through the gift of design. For times, ticket information, or to learn how you can nominate someone, visit www.lovebydesign.org 129 N. WEST ST. DOWNTOWN WHEATON WWW.LOVEBYDESIGN.ORG FACEBOOK - LOVEYOURNEIGHBOR

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H A Adult D D

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When the Wild Child Grows Up

by Erin Chan Ding

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r. Timothy Cullinane once had an adult patient who thought he had bipolar disorder. He constantly changed jobs. He abused substances. He engaged in what Cullinane referred to as “impulsive sexual acting out.”

But in reality, he had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, also known as Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD. “Those symptoms were very much essentially stopped by his ADD treatment,” says Cullinane, chairman of the department of psychiatry at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital.

The focus on ADHD in children has boomed in recent decades, but the fact is the disorder is typically a lifelong one, meaning it affects a bevy of American adults.

“If you’re an ADHD adult, you have to have been an ADHD kid, no matter whether or not you were diagnosed as a child,” says Thomas Phelan, author of All About ADHD: A Family Resource for Helping Your Child Succeed with ADHD (see review on page 22), which includes sections on adult ADHD. “It’s not just something that starts when you’re 25 or 30, if it’s true ADD.” Phelan, a PhD clinical psychologist with a practice in Glen Ellyn, says about two-thirds of kids with ADHD don’t outgrow it. If three to five percent of all children in America have ADHD, as Phelan says, then it also affects about 1.5 million to 2.5 million adults.

One of those is Mark Pagano of Keeneyville, who always had a reputation as somewhat of a wild child in school.

“I was constantly getting kicked out of class,” he says. “I just knew I was hyper and bonkers, basically.”

In about second or third grade, Pagano was diagnosed with ADHD based on his hyperactivity and lack of focus. With his

mom’s reservations, he was given Ritalin, a stimulant, to treat it. That went on for a couple of years, one pill at lunchtime every day.

Throughout junior high and high school, Pagano struggled.

It startled him when other kids would walk out of a class with pages full of notes. He would stare at the teacher

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then you have this diagnosis,” says Dr. Abdullah Sallaj, a clinician with ABC DuPage, a group of behavioral health providers with offices in Hinsdale and Oakbrook Terrace, and owner of Abby Psychiatry in Chicago.

Dr. Kyle Bonesteel of NeuroHealth Associates in Oak Brook says adults with attention issues can often have trouble

People with classic ADHD exhibit a mind-body connection that can result in fidgety behavior and a tendency to get bored or distracted easily.

during lectures, trying hard to process what was being said, “But my mind was somewhere else.”

His girlfriend at the time and now his wife, Patti Pagano, says she would do what she could to direct his attention.

“It was just very clear that he couldn’t focus all day in school,” she says, “so I would come over after school and sit with him and say, ‘OK, we have to finish this before we go to do this.’”

Pagano once tried a marketing job in an office. He lasted for 30 minutes in a cubicle before walking out.

Now 35, Pagano still deals with such symptoms of his ADHD as hyperactivity.

But finding patience and understanding in Patti, as well as discovering the perfect career to help him channel his symptoms, changed his life.

Symptoms If you’ve never been diagnosed with ADHD, how do you know if you might suffer from it as an adult? How do you know you don’t have depression? Or you’re just extra-stressed? Or extra-tired?

“It’s a lot more complicated than, say, you have five out of nine symptoms, and

“locking in and paying attention for any length of time.”

Corollary symptoms, he adds, include difficulties with self-starting and motivation.

“They simply can’t engage in enough self-directed behavior,” says Bonesteel, “and they don’t have enough drive, enough oomph, enough consistent motivation.”

Other symptoms adults who have ADHD deal with are interfering factors and intrusive thoughts. “It’s sort of the busy brain syndrome,” he says. “Too many simultaneous thoughts going on inside, too much mental chatter.”

Diagnosis Because ADHD can often be confused with such issues as depression, Sallaj says it’s often diagnosed through excluding other possibilities. With adults, Sallaj often starts out with questions.

“I want to know, how long have you had this job? Has the job changed? Are you having interaction issues with people at work? Do you have a bad boss? Do you have difficult peers? Do you have any difficult clients?” he asks.

“Because those issues can really play into your ability to attend to what’s in

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Adult ADHD

Because of his ADHD, Mark Pagano quickly realized that he was not well suited to working in an office. As an alternative, he pursued a career in heating and air conditioning. The more active work environment has allowed him to channel his energies more effectively — so effectively that Pagano (shown below with his family) now owns his own HVAC company.

front of you,” explains Sallaj, “and not be emotionally distracted by other things that are happening on the side.”

Sallaj says he’ll go on to ask how a person’s relationships are going, or if there are difficult situations going on in someone’s family, like an illness.

“Those can really make things worse with regard to attention,” he says. “I want to know, ‘Was this new?’ Because typically, ADHD does not necessarily get worse

out of the blue.”

If symptoms do suddenly get worse, without any other life circumstances changing, it could indicate more of a mood problem or anxiety issue rather than ADHD, says Sallaj.

People with classic ADHD, he says, exhibit a mind-body connection that can result in fidgety behavior and a tendency to get bored or distracted easily.

“ADHD, for me at least, as a treating physician, is more a diagnosis of exclusion,” he says. “We exclude everything that can cause inattention and then we move to the idea of medication.”

ADHD can sometimes be present in people with other disorders, or comorbidities, says Phelan. Common comorbidities experienced by people with ADHD include depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

Cullinane likened depression to a software issue and ADHD to a hardware problem because it’s more of a brain dysfunction, “as if you had a wiring issue in your computer.”

Often, in adults with ADHD, “It’s usually someone else in their life saying, ‘You have a problem. You need to do something about it,’” says Cullinane.

“It’s a lifelong thing. People (with ADHD) don’t know any different.”

Pagano, too, says he viewed some of the hyperactive and restless behavior associated with his ADHD — such as a compelling desire for movement and action — as typical. It wasn’t until other people didn’t mimic his behavior that he realized he was built differently.

In his book, Phelan says diagnosing ADHD in adults requires evaluating developmental and family history, educational and workplace environments, social functioning, medical and psychiatry history, self-reporting, structured interviews, rating scales, questionnaires, observations of office behavior and interviews with close relatives and friends.

Bonesteel has a different take on ADHD diagnosis.

Think you or someone you love may need help with ADHD? Here are some local resources that may be able to help.

ABC DuPage 501 Ogden Ave, Suite 1, in Hinsdale, 630 986-0599 and 1S376 Summit Ave, Court D, Unit 5B in Oakbrook Terrace, 630 629-6550. www.abcdupage.com Edward-Elmhurst Health Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, 155 E. Brush Hill Road in Elmhurst, 331 221-1000 and Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, 852 South West Street in Naperville, 630 305-5027. www.eehealth.org NeuroHealth Associates Center for Neurofeedback, 2805 Butterfield Road, Suite 100 in Oak Brook, 630 969-3233. www.nhahealth.com

He takes a neuropsychological and neurocognitive approach to testing to see how well a person’s brain can perform on standardized neurological tests. He may also study a brain map to see if brain wave frequency patterns are consistent with those patterns typically present in ADHD. “Understanding brain performance, understanding symptoms and also looking at what the brain is actually doing physiologically, that three-point approach is typically the most scientific and most comprehensive way of looking at things,” maintains Bonesteel.

Treatment The most obvious course of treatment for ADHD is medication. Cullinane says extended-release stimulants, like Adderall, can be “very helpful.”

He also says non-stimulant medications like Strattara, can help; Sallaj adds that Strattara is particularly effective with distractibility issues.

Stimulants that increase the amount of dopamine in the body, Sallaj says, can

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“It’s sort of the busy brain syndrome. Too many simultaneous thoughts going on inside, too much mental chatter.”

help people “stick with something for a longer period of time and attend to things in front of them.”

There has to be a certain amount of caution, however, when using medication.

If you’re overdosed, Sallaj says, medication can cause mood problems or hyperfocusing. It can also increase anxiety and sleep problems.

“Medication has to be more of a wind at your back,” Sallaj says. “It’s not going to make you focus. It’s just going to sort of gently lead you into it.”

Bonesteel practices another treatment for ADHD called neurofeedback that’s essentially a way of training the brain.

He places sensors on the scalp over areas that aren’t producing enough brain-wave activity. That activity is then monitored in real time by a specialized computer connected to a video screen.

On the screen, there’s a movie playing, but the size and clarity of the picture depend on whether the person’s brain is producing a balanced wave pattern.

When the brain-wave pattern becomes more balanced, the screen’s size and clarity also improve.

“It’s a movie that’s under brain control,” Bonesteel says. “The instruction to the person is, ‘Watch the movie, and play it. Let your brain learn how to produce the proper electrical patterns that allow the software to play the movie full screen and clear. So the brain is basically being rewarded for producing the correct electrical pattern.”

There’s also a behavioral and lifestyle component to treatment. It can be as simple, Cullinane says, as having one specific place to always put your keys.

Or if you have trouble with interrupting people, practice counting from one

to three before speaking.

Unlike kids, adults do not have to be confined to sitting in a classroom for much of the day and can choose a career path that could be commensurate with managing symptoms, such as avoiding sedentary jobs.

Pagano learned he could not handle a job requiring him to sit behind a desk or computer for any length of time. One day in his early 20s, he heard a radio commercial about a training program in heating and air conditioning.

“Being in an office just did not work for me,” he says. “I just knew I had to get into a trade and keep moving.”

The career in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, he has found, suits his hyperactive tendencies, which he has channeled into completing work tasks effectively. He says the speed with which he finishes HVAC jobs has often boggled his bosses.

Even at home, his wife, Patti, says he lines up one project after another to keep from being restless, from gutting bathrooms to refinishing floors to building a new chicken coop.

Pagano now runs his own company, Perfect Temp Heating & Air, and instead of the wild child tendencies of his youth, he has a reputation for promptness and efficient service.

His wife Patti, 36, calls the change she’s seen in Mark from teenager to adulthood “pretty amazing.”

“He just has a dedication that’s bigger than anybody I’ve ever seen,” she says.

“It’s just interesting that all his ADHD has been channeled into this and given him an amazing work ethic. He’s definitely still hyper, but he’s hyper in a way that’s doing good for our family.” n WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 61

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Photo by Theresa Cramer Photo by John Norton

Glen Ellyn

Photo by Tim Benson

Small town charm in the heart of DuPage County

Photo courtesy of Glen Ellyn Park District

By Lynn Petrak

F

or a western suburb at the geographic center of DuPage County, Glen Ellyn has a little something for everyone, including its 28,000 or so residents and the many visitors who pass through its nearly seven-square-mile boundaries.

A historic downtown straddling the railroad tracks leading to and from the big city: check. A bustling college that attracts students from all over the area: check.

A community comprised of residents involved in and often volunteering for local nonprofits, civic groups, churches and schools: check. A suburb that attracts entrepreneurs seeking to follow their American business-owning dream: check.

A thriving cultural climate with a plethora of performances: check. Plenty of green spaces, parks and a picturesque lake: check.

Meredith Hannah, economic development coordinator for the Village of Glen Ellyn, agrees that this community has a broad appeal and a spectrum of things to do and see. “Small-town charm, civic pride, friendly people and some of the best schools

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Photos b Photo by Theresa Cramer

Photo by Theresa Cramer

Downtown Shopping Stroll around pedestrian-friendly downtown Glen Ellyn along classically American-named streets like Main Street and Pennsylvania Avenue and you’re bound to come across a banner reading “A downtown to treasure.” There is a veritable treasure trove in this district, whether it’s jewelry sold at Costello Jewelry Company, Larc Jewelers and Riviera Jewelers, the bounty of items sold at the many boutiques and specialty shops, the rich array of restaurants and gourmet stores, or the indulgent services offered by salons and spas.

While there are a few chains like the omnipresent Starbucks, downtown businesses are by and large owned by independent merchants. Some of those independent businesses have been fixtures in the community for decades, including Young’s Appliances, which dates back 85 years; The Bookstore, 50 years; and Sign of the Whale Antiques, in business for 37 years. Other longtime downtown stalwarts with more than 20 years under their belt are Florist on Forest, Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio, and Linea Hair Salon & Day Spa.

The Name Game

Known in the late 1890s as a retreat for some R&R outside busy, growing Chicago, Glen Ellyn has gone by a number of other names during its colorful history, including Babcock’s Grove, Stacy’s Corners, Danby, Newton’s Station and Prospect Park.

Landmarks, stores and restaurants echo those names into the future.

Photo by Brent Edwards

in the state make Glen Ellyn the perfect place to call home,” says Hannah.“Visitors abound at year-round community events where people come for the family fun and stay for the trendy shopping and dining.” She adds that the community’s proximity to Chicago and other points of interest, along with its scenic parks and natural areas, are other draws for those who live in, work in, study in or visit Glen Ellyn.

Those who were raised in Glen Ellyn or currently call it home agree that it is a hometown at the heart of the county and at the heart of many people. “There is almost a mystical force that draws people to — and back to — Glen Ellyn,” says Monica Eorgoff, who was born and raised in town and whose grandfather emigrated from Bulgaria directly to Glen Ellyn in the 1920s. “It was an idyllic place to grow up, and tradition and memories blend with natural beauty to give you a sense of belonging.” Eorgoff’s grandfather was the keeper of an American flag that flew above the old fire station on Pennsylvania Avenue and atop the old Glen Ellyn Bank building, now home to retail shops, services and other businesses.

Photo courtesy of Glen Ellyn Park District

Photo by John Norton

Benson

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Glen Ellyn

Statistical Snapshot Photo by John Norton

Population 2015 pop est – 28,201 g Increase from 2000 – 1.5% g Median age – 40.6 g 19 and under – 28% g 20-24 – 5% g 25-34 – 10% g 35-44 – 13% g 45-54 – 16% g 55-64 – 13% g 65 and over – 15% g Male – 48% g Female – 52% g White – 86% g African-American – 4% g Asian – 8% g Hispanic – 6%

or higher – 61%

income – $91,051

Housing g Total households – 10,443 g Family households – 70% g Avg. household size – 2.6 gM ean price for detached houses – $522,139 units – 7,830

g Renter-occupied units – 2,613

g Gross median rent – $962

Business/Employment gR esidents employed – 98% g Residents unemployed – 2% gA vg. travel time

gH igh school degree or higher – 95%

gM edian household

g Owner-occupied

Education g B achelor’s degree

Income

g Graduate or professional degree – 26%

Over the years, the downtown has attracted an ever-wider range of retailers.

Clothes, accessories and gifts galore make for quality browsing time at a variety of boutiques including Jayne, 1 Happy Girl, Norabella and Enchantments. Other shops cater to the younger set, like M and Em’s children’s boutique and Sweet P doll studio, where children can bring in their dolls for parties, workshops and camps, and shop for doll accessories.

Several shops feature the works of artisans, like Bird on a Wire, a studio that carries custom locally hand-crafted items.

Then there’s Re:new, which showcases works from refugee women who make a variety of pieces in the store’s studio; and Ten Thousand Villages, a fair trade retailer that carries works from 130 artisan groups in more than 30 countries.

Other popular specialty stores include String Theory Yarn Company, which offers a wide array of yarns and classes on knitting and crocheting; and the elegant Papier Girl, which specializes in stationery invitations and gift-related items.

Those looking for resale items and antiques can check out the racks at Kelsey Resale Boutique and Gather and Collect.

More recently, Glen Ellyn has made a name for itself among gourmands, thanks in

to work – 26.3 min Sources: U.S. Census, City-Data.com and usa.com

large part to Marcel’s Culinary Experience, which sells a variety of kitchen items, including foodstuffs, appliances, tools, bakeware, tableware and accessories, and offers a range of demonstrations and classes for all ages and palates. In May, for example, Marcel’s offers an outdoor class for those getting ready for grilling season, showing how to go beyond basic burgers and hot dogs with dishes like grilled avocado and bacon panzanella, or grilled beef bourguignon kabobs with a pinot noir wine sauce.

The epicurean experience extends to Marché, a gourmet wine and cheese shop adjacent to Marcel’s, where guests can savor cheese and charcuterie as well as wines, craft beers and spirits, among other items. Marché also offers cheese and charcuterie boards for parties and special occasions as well as gift boxes, in-store events and a cheese and wine club.

Those on the hunt for specialty foods and beverages can also find something to nosh, nibble and imbibe at spots like Cabernet & Company, The Beer Cellar, Olive ‘N Vinnie’s Oil and Balsamic Bar, Glen Ellyn Sweet Shop and the recently opened Chocolaterie Stam. And for artistic types, or simply those who like to pick up a brush and paint while tipping a glass

of vino with friends, there is Bottle & Bottega, which specializes in wine and art parties.

In the summer months, those hungry for fresh fixings can shop the outdoor French Market in downtown Glen Ellyn, held on Sundays from June 4 through October 29, which offers a variety of locally grown produce, organic meats and baked goods, along with fresh flowers and artisan jewelry and crafts.

Downtown Dining The culinary experience goes beyond gourmet purveyors and extends to the many downtown restaurant choices. There are some venerable favorites like Barone’s of Glen Ellyn, LuLu’s Pizzeria and More, Glen Oak Cafe, Made in Italy Trattoria, Made in Italy Express and Thipi Thai.

Other hotspots include fire + wine, Blackberry Market, A Toda Madre, Main Street Pub, Javi’s Burritos, North Side Bar & Grill, Shannon’s Irish Pub, and the kid-targeted 2Toots Train Whistle Grill near the railroad tracks.

When coming home to Glen Ellyn, revisiting familiar places is part of the charm. “Everyone goes to longtime restaurants like Barone’s and Alfie’s Inn when returning to Glen Ellyn” says Eorgoff. Alfie’s, on Roosevelt Road, isn’t in the downtown area, but is a Glen Ellyn institution known for its hamburgers.

Mirroring the ever-changing shopping Photo courtesy of Glen Ellyn Park District

TOWN FOCUS

scene, newer eateries are also making their mark, like Maize + Mash, which opened in March (see related article on page 70).

And other new dining establishments are on the horizon, including Two Hound Red, a restaurant and microbrewery which has

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Photo courtesy of Glen Ellyn Park District

e

Photo by Ed Ahern

started construction at the location of the former Schmid’s pharmacy. The brewpub will specialize in farm-to-table menu items and will make craft beers on site.

Meantime, those looking for a little entertainment can head to the Glen Art Theatre in downtown Glen Ellyn. A movie house with a history dating back to the golden era of films in the 1920s.

The Glen Art is not only unique in that it’s an independent theatre in an era of chain multiplexes, but in its showing of first-run movies that are more artistic in nature than the average blockbuster.

Another bonus — tickets are only $7, with $5 admission before 5 p.m.

So Much to Do The Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce, Alliance of Downtown Glen Ellyn, the Village of Glen Ellyn and other organizations offer a wide range of events for residents and visitors.

“One of the things that makes downtown Glen Ellyn so unique is the many events that we execute throughout the year. These events bring in visitors from far and wide,” says Carole White, executive director of the Alliance of Downtown Glen Ellyn. “Whether it is our Ladies Night Out in November, with over 600 women searching out the perfect gift, or our Wedding Walk, where brides look for that unique idea for their special day, Glen Ellyn has a long track record

of delivering memorable events.”

The schedule is particularly packed this time of year. On May 21, the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce hosts a Taste of Glen Ellyn and Village Fair, a four-day event with live entertainment, foods and beverages, carnival rides, a craft festival and business expo.

Another popular event is scheduled for June 15. “Wine & Finds,” held on the Thursday night before Father’s Day, is a wine tasting event where couples and friends celebrate, shop and taste throughout many downtown Glen Ellyn boutiques,” explains White.

The Fourth of July is a big deal in Glen Ellyn, with traditions like the cardboard regatta on Lake Ellyn, a Picnic in the Park, and a parade and fireworks display. Later in July, it’s Jazz Up Glen Ellyn. “It’s a phenomenal event that showcases nine amazing jazz groups over eight hours and draws over 3,500 guests,” says White.

Other highlights include a street party, “Sounds on the Street” on Sept. 1, with tastings from local restaurants and live music, a Ladies Night Out in November, and a Stories with Santa event around the holidays at the Glen Ellyn firehouse.

The Great Glen Ellyn Outdoors Lake Ellyn Park is a favorite spot for events as well as simple relaxation and the chance to reconnect with nature.

“People come from all over to watch the Lake Ellyn cardboard regatta,” says Courtney O’Kray, marketing and communications supervisor for the Glen Ellyn Park District, which oversees Lake Ellyn Park.

“Lake Ellyn is a special place year round,” adds O’Kray, “with people out on kayaks and canoes in the summer and, in one of our newer events, to see the Pumpkin Flotilla Festival in October, in which pumpkins are pulled by kayaks and are all lit up on the water. It’s really beautiful and something different.”

According to Eorgoff, the 10-acre Lake Ellyn and surrounding 25-acre park are part of what set the community apart.

Taste of Glen Ellyn Thursday, May 18th - Sunday, May 21st Celebrate all that Glen Ellyn has to offer during 4 days of great food, music & fun!

Live Entertainment • The Village Carnival A Craft Fair • Business Expo • Y Run 5K Food from Local Restaurants CARNIVAL OPENS Wed, May 17 - Sun, May 21 Discount tickets will be available at the chamber office FOOD FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS Thur, May 18 – Sun, May 21 COMMUNITY STAGE Fri, May 19 - Sun May 21 Community groups showcasing their talents BUSINESS EXPO Fri, May 19 - Sun, May 21 CRAFT FAIR Sat, May 20 - Sun, May 21 Y RUN 5K, SUPER KIDS 1K & FUN RUN Sat, May 20 www.brryallymca.org/Yrun

Thursday, May 18 5:30 - 7:30 pm Wild Daisy 8:00 - 10:00 pm Hillybilly Rockstarz Friday, May 19 5:30 - 7:30 pm LoveHouse 8:00 - 10:30 pm Hi Infidelity Saturday, May 20 12:00 - 5:00 pm School of Rock 5:30 - 7:30 pm Strung Out-Chicago 8:00 - 10:30 pm 7th Heaven Sunday, May 21 12:00 - 3:00 pm School of Rock 3:30 - 5:00 pm Sam Savage 5:30 - 7:00 pm Rick Saucedo

The Chamber is seeking volunteers and sponsors to assist with this exciting event.

Go to www.GlenEllynChamber.com/Taste for more information or call 630.469.0907.

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TOWN FOCUS

Glen Ellyn

LINEA

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Convenient Hours: Mon 9am-8pm; Tues 9am-9pm; Wed 8am-8pm; Thurs 6am-10pm; Fri & Sat 6am-5pm 518 N. Main Street,Glen Ellyn 630.790.8001 • www.lineasalon.com

3RD ANNUAL DESIGN HOUSE A Love Your Neighbor special event

May 4th 4pm-9pm (preview night) $40 May 5th 9am-5pm $25 Explore and purchase the latest design trends for your home.

Located at 129 N. West St. in Wheaton, this 100 year old home features the work of designers from across the western suburbs.

Proceeds benefit Love Your Neighbor, a local nonprofit founded on the principle of sharing God’s unconditional love through the gift of design. For times, ticket information, or to learn how you can nominate someone, visit www.lovebydesign.org 129 N. WEST ST. DOWNTOWN WHEATON WWW.LOVEBYDESIGN.ORG FACEBOOK - LOVEYOURNEIGHBOR

“Lake Ellyn Park is like a scene from Currier and Ives, right in the heart of Glen Ellyn,” she says. “You can just sit on one of the benches and take in the view of the lake, the boathouse, the park and Glenbard West High School on the hill, or you can take a mile-long walk around the lake path.”

Recently, the 1920s-era boathouse on Lake Ellyn was restored, with a new cedar roof, wooden doors and windows in an effort to replicate its original design.

The boathouse, which has its own deck overlooking the lake, can be rented for special occasions.

Lake Ellyn is a multi-use recreation area, with amenities including picnic areas, walking trails, clay tennis courts, a playground and a deck for fishing. The park is the setting for many special events, including the Tour of Lake Ellyn bike race on July 15.

In addition to Lake Ellyn Park, the Glen Ellyn Park District maintains 28 parks and playgrounds in the community.

For indoor activities, the Ackerman Sports and Fitness Center features an indoor turf field, basketball courts, rock climbing, and a fitness center and walking track.

Another green-space gem in Glen Ellyn is Maryknoll Park. The location includes a Splash Park with 12 spray

jets (and a price of just $3 per child and $1 per accompanying adult), a clubhouse for lunch or picnics, an adventure playground with a 75-ft zip line and climbing boulders, and the Holes & Knolls Miniature Golf Course with 36 holes of mini golf and a concessions area.

Those who prefer the traditional game of golf can hit the Village Links, a facility owned by the Village of Glen Ellyn. It offers 27 holes of golf, practice facilities and year-round dining at the Reserve 22 restaurant. “The restaurant’s 134-seat patio boasts the most serene, scenic view in all DuPage County, with two fire pits, a covered outdoor bar and flat screen televisions — quite the popular spot in summer months,” says Hannah. The Village Links is also a Certified Wildlife Sanctuary Golf Course, the first public golf course in the country to earn that distinction in 1991.

Glen Ellyn attracts, celebrates and conserves wildlife in a number of other ways, too, at the Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Operated and maintained by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, this is a native wildlife rehabilitation facility.

It provides treatment to injured and orphaned wild animals — such as chipmunks, cottontails, mink,

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opossums, squirrels and raccoons — and hosts education programs to teach area residents and groups more about native wildlife. In the visitor center, people can get a look at native wildlife and see how the center’s volunteers care for the injured and orphaned animals.

College and Community A community within the community of Glen Ellyn is the College of DuPage.

Located on a 273-acre site, COD draws more than 28,000 students of all ages from throughout the western suburbs and is the largest community college in the state. The sprawling campus has 11 major buildings plus an array of athletics fields.

“At College of DuPage, we continually examine how to best serve the region,” says school President Ann Rondeau.

“Whether we are offering bachelor degree pathways to respected partner institutions like the University of Illinois, cultural events through the McAninch Arts Center, life-long learning opportunities through Continuing Education, or music through Chicago’s only jazz radio station, WDCB, we exist to serve and broaden the lives of our residents.”

The college offers outreach programs and activities for all ages, including a youth academy, high-school programs,

music lessons, tutoring and adult enrichment classes.

“We reside in a district that places exceptional value on the community college mission of offering students affordable, accessible and high quality education,” says Rondeau. “We focus on the term ‘community’ when developing programs, services and cultural offerings to enhance the personal and professional lives of our students and residents. We are a place of innovation and learning that provides opportunities outside the four walls of a classroom.”

A fine example is the McAninch Arts Center (the MAC), home to the Cleve Carney Art Gallery and the 800-seat Belushi Performance Hall, which features several resident professional ensembles, student productions and plays host to world-class touring attractions.

Recently, its resident orchestra, the New Philharmonic, won the Illinois Council of Orchestra’s award for Professional Orchestra of the Year. The Buffalo Theater Ensemble is also based at the MAC. Each week, the MAC hosts an average of five public performances, 10 rehearsals, two rental events, and several arts programs.

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Photo courtesy of Eric Schmidt Photography

Resources Jazz Up Glen Ellyn

Total Holdings: 167,002 Items Checked Out per Year: 670,879 Visitors Per Year: 362,040

Attractions n Glen

Art Theatre: 540 Crescent Blvd., 630 415-1976.

Theatre built in the 1920s featuring both new releases and independent films.

n McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage: 425 Fawell Blvd., 630 942-4000.

Three theaters and Cleve Carney Art Gallery hosting 200+ performances and exhibits annually, plus free outdoor concerts.

Recreation n Ackerman

Sports and Fitness Center: 800 St. Charles Rd., 630 317-0130. Rock climbing wall, indoor walking track, basketball courts, turf field, fitness center, the Bulls/ Sox Academy and more. n Center Ice of DuPage: 1N450 Highland Ave., 630 790-9696. Rink for hockey and figure skating open to the public. n HealthTrack Sports Wellness Center: 875 Roosevelt Rd., 630 469-7858.

Pool, tennis courts, fitness center, children’s activity center, day spa and more. n Lake

n Village

Theatre Guild: Park Blvd. and Butterfield Rd, 630 469-8230. Community theatre with four major annual productions.

Education

n College of DuPage: 425 Fawell Blvd., 630 942-2800.

273-acre community college offering 170 certificate and nine associate degrees.

Museums

n Glen Ellyn Historical Society: 800 N Main St., 630 469-1867. Exhibits and year-round programs to share and preserve Glen Ellyn’s history. n Stacy’s Tavern Museum: 557 Geneva Rd., 630 469-1867.

A historic, restored inn dating back to the late 1840s.

Ellyn Park & Boathouse: 645 Lenox Rd., 630 858-2462.

25-acre park and private party venue.

on a 50-acre preserve. n Chocolate, Cheese & Wine Tasting: Crowne Plaza, 1250 Roosevelt Rd., 630 469-0907. New tasting event in November featuring chocolates, cheeses and wines as well as appetizers from local restaurants. n Glen Ellyn French Market: Downtown Glen Ellyn, 630 469-0907. Early summer to early fall French market featuring baked goods, jewelry, produce and more. n Halloween Festival & Parade: Downtown Glen Ellyn, 630 469-0907.

Averaging 2,500 visitors, this annual event features a parade, trick-or-treating, entertainment and more. n Holiday

n Splash

n Taste of Glen Ellyn: South Main Parking Lot, Downtown Glen Ellyn, 630 469-0907.

Annual early summer event featuring live music, a carnival, craft festival, business expo and more.

n Sunset

Pool: 483 Fairview Ave., 630 858-7665. Aquatic center with a lap pool, diving pool, water playground and two water slides.

n Willowbrook

Wildlife Center: 525 S. Park Blvd., 630 942-6200.

Education and wildlife rehabilitation center located

• Stacy’s Tavern Museum celebrates the history of the former, which served as an inn for those traveling to and from Chicago in the mid-19th century. The Greek Revival-style building is now a museum open to the public for tours from April through mid-December.

• The Glen Ellyn Historical Society hosts programs for all ages — including a recent session on the history of brothels in Glen Ellyn.

• The Illinois Prairie Path cuts through Glen Ellyn. A bike repair station in Prairie Path Park is the only one of its kind along the path. Planned improvements for Prairie

Events

n Maryknoll Park: 845 Pershing Ave., 630 858-2462.

25-acre park featuring a 75-ft cable ride, platform tennis courts, and miniature and disc golf.

Park: 845 Pershing Ave., 630 858-2462. Water tower, spray cannons, zero-depth pad and more.

Other Glen Ellyn Highlights

Photo by Ed Ahern

Glen Ellyn Public Library

at the picturesque lakeside pavilion. For a full schedule, go to www.atthemac.org.

Walk: Downtown Glen Ellyn, 630 469-0907.

Holiday countdown, tree lighting, visits from Santa and more at this annual November event.

n Winter Showcase Fashion Show: Glen Oak Country Club, 21W451 Hill Ave., 630 469-0907. Local shops showcases fashions and accessories at this annual winter event.

Path Park include the addition of an outdoor ping-pong table and chess tables.

• Anima (formerly known as the Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus) has been a cultural fixture in town for more than 50 years. The internationally recognized youth choral group is comprised of six ensembles of children from more than 35 communities.

Upcoming events include a spring concert on May 12 and a performance at the Glen Ellyn Arts in the Park series on August 26. Anima’s artistic director Emily Ellsworth, who has been at the helm for 21 years, is retiring at the end of this season. n

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DINING |

REVIEWS

|

LISTINGS

|

CHEERS WINE COLUMN

|

AND MUCH MORE

Photo courtesy of Seared

RESTAURANT OPENINGS

RECENTLY OPENED

Seared Fine Dining

O

offering an elegant,

establishments in Portland, Oregon,

fresh seafood entrées, diners may choose

contemporary dining

and Chicago, brings a creative flair to

duck with asparagus and coconut curry,

experience centered

traditional American fare with a strong

or short ribs with gremolata mashers, baby

around fresh seafood and

emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

carrots and pan gravy. Many of the dishes

steaks, Seared is the jewel

The prime beef, for instance, is raised in

are accented with edible flowers.

among three new restaurant choices inside

A wide selection of fine wines and

Maple Park and Oswego.

handcrafted cocktails are offered.

the recently renovated Westin Chicago

Small plates options include a beet

Northwest hotel in Itasca (400 Park Blvd.,

salad with chevre, chili lime pepitas, orange,

630 773-4000).

jicama, arugula and frisee, and tenderloin

the ambience is intimate. A separate private

carpaccio and pork belly char sui.

room is available for up to 16 guests.

Peter Menteer, a classically trained chef with 20 years experience in premier

Beyond the prime cut steaks and market

The décor at Seared is modern yet

– Anne Knudsen

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GoOd food

By Lynn Petrak

Maize + Mash Creative American fare in downtown Glen Ellyn

W

hiskey may be a headliner at Maize + Mash — the name is a nod to the use of maize in the mash process for making corn whiskey — but this newly opened American bistro has a spirit that goes beyond the selections on its drink menu.

Thanks to an ambiance combining rustic reclaimed wood floors and paneling, a classic tin ceiling and contemporary silver light fixtures, the setting is as inviting as the menu and a signal that some unique culinary fusions can be found here.

Yes, corn whiskey is on the drinks menu at Maize+Mash, opened by the same team as the popular Barrel + Rye in Geneva. And mashed potatoes with gravy is a popular side dish.

Beyond these seemingly rustic basics, cuisine and creativity are elevated. The shared plates and appetizers include a bone marrow dish served with red onion marmalade, grilled bread, arugula and preserved lemon salad. Other on-trend offerings include cauliflower tots, duck poutine, tuna poke, and a house board splayed with chef-procured meats, cheeses and accoutrements. There’s also a bit of tableside entertainment to the shared

plates — servers toss chips with truffle oil, parmesan and soft egg in a paper bag to the “oohs and “aahs” of patrons.

The Southern Chicken The Tuna Poke sandwich has a surprisingly light crunch, given that the chicken breast is dusted with a house-made five-spice seasoning before being lightly fried and served with cheese, house-cured bacon, a perfectly fried egg and a drizzle of honey on a rustic bun.

There is an array of burgers, too, including veggie and chicken varieties.

Salads are dressed for success as well, including a Bistro Cobb that doesn’t skimp on the grilled beef tenderloin, and also features mixed greens, bacon, avocado, corn, toasted pumpkin seeds, roasted red pepper, blue cheese and a just-right dose of vinaigrette.

The southern-meets-west-suburban charm extends to desserts, which are made in house with rich, pure ingredients and the same kind of love Grandma might stir in. Come early if you want to try the popular fruit cobbler.

The sumptuous brownie is big enough to

share and is served atop zigzags of caramel crème with a big dollop of fresh made whipped cream and cookie crumbles.

Open past midnight on weekends, Maize + Mash boasts an inventive, extensive drink menu. Whiskeys are prominent, and again, there is a mix of the rustic and the upscale. Offerings range from moonshine to a cucumber cooler and from locally crafted beers to a “bubbles and bramble” drink made with gin, Chambord, blackberries and lemon, among other fixings. A variety of specialty cocktails are offered priced in the $10 range.

Servers are friendly and enthusiastic,

whether explaining how the short rib is smoked in house or providing to-go boxes before being asked.

As with the process of making whiskey, Maize + Mash has done well with the process of turning essentially all-American ingredients into a definite spirit of fun. n

QUICK FACTS

Maize + Mash

430 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn 630 547-2540 www.maizeplusmash.com

Recommended Dishes

Cost

Hours

Extras

Maize + Mash and

Shared plates: $9 to $16

Sun - Mon: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday brunch

Berkshire burgers;

Entrées: $10 to $17

Tue - Thur: 11 a.m. - midnight

and 70 whiskeys

Bistro Cobb salad

Cocktails: $10

Fri - Sat 11 a.m. - 1 a.m.

and bourbons,

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DIning Photo by Ed Ahern

n n n n Recently Opened

Listings Following is a sampling of some of the best dining destinations in the western suburbs, including reader favorites, advertisers and a cross-section of just plain good places to grab a bite. Bon appétit! n Central DuPage n Nw DuPage & Upper Fox Valley n Sw DuPage & lower fox valley n Se Dupage & SW Cook n Ne DuPage & nw cook

n Adelle’s: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.

New twists on old American favorites served by seasoned professionals in a stylish ambiance.

Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: White fish. Entrée prices: $18-$34.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, wine room, carry-out, live jazz Th at 7 pm, live music on select other nights, lounge, fireplaces. T-Th 4:30-8:30, F-Sat 4:30-9:30, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Recommended. n Allgauer’s: 3003 Corporate West Dr, Lisle;

in the Hilton Lisle/Naperville. 630 245-7650. Classic American fare with an eclectic twist in a contemporary environment. Specializes in locally sourced, dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and chops.

Capacity:196 at 44 tables. Yrs in bus: 35. Chef’s Choice: Potato-crusted halibut. Entrée prices: $25- $44; lunch menu $9-$18. Extras: Bar, banquets, family friendly, Sunday brunch, breakfast buffet Mon-Sun, lunch buffet M-F, seafood buffet on Friday.

Breakfast M-F 6:30-11 am, Sat 7-11 am, Sun 7-9:30 am; Lunch M-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Sun 4-10, F seafood & prime rib buffet 5:30-8:30, Sun brunch 10:30-2:30.

Reservations: Recommended. n Altiro Latin Fusion: 308 Anderson Blvd,

Geneva. 630 232-7717. A tapas restaurant combining innovative flavors from Spanish and Latin cuisine. Capacity: 50 + 40 outside. Yrs In bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Altiro tilapia tacos. Entrée prices: $8-$12. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, patio.

Lunch T-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Th 4-9, F-Sat 4-10; Brunch Sun 10-2. Reservations: Recommended. Affiliated with Al Chulo, 1400 S Neltnor Blvd., West Chicago, 630 520-0615. n Anyway’s Chicago Restaurant & Pub 5 E Roosevelt Rd, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 932-9323.

Classic neighborhood restaurant and pub serving American cuisine. Capacity: 200 at 45 tables.

Yrs in bus: 20. Chef’s Choice: Izzy’s jambalaya pasta and Certified Angus burgers. Entrée prices: $7-$15. Extras: Bar, carry-out, banquets, outdoor dining, kids’ menu, daily specials. M-Th 11:30 am1 am, F-Sat 11:30 am-2 am, Sun noon-1 am.

Reservations: Yes, for 10 or more. Additional location at 304 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, 630 351-8870. n Atwater’s: 15 S River Ln, Geneva; in The

Herrington Inn & Spa. 630 208-8920. Eclectic American cuisine with a rotating, seasonal menu in a European style atrium setting overlooking the Fox River.

Capacity: 40. Yrs in bus: 23. Entrée prices: $24-$45.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, catering, private dining in gazebo, event space. Breakfast M-F 7 am-11 am, Sat-Sun 8 am-11 am; Lunch M-Sun 11-2; Dinner Sun-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10; Brunch Sun 11-2.

Reservations: Recommended.

Cottage Hill Station Family friendly eatery and sports bar in historic Elmhurst building

T

he recent opening

businesses. The restaurant’s

toppings, but a standout

of Cottage Hill Station

moniker, Miller says, pays

is The Latino, prepared with

at 122 S. York St., Elmhurst

homage to the original name

queso, chorizo, guacamole

(630 279-3130) marked a

of the area before it formally

and chipotle mayonnaise.

new chapter for the 1843

became Elmhurst in 1870.

Miller says the hands-down

building, says Zach Miller,

favorite dish is “our fish tacos,”

general manager of the

Executive Chef Rick Campillo

starring blackened mahi,

“family friendly restaurant and

include traditional or boneless

cilantro, pico de gallo and

sports bar.” Over the years the

chicken wings and Gardiniere

sour cream.

historic structure, which once

Hummus served as a dipping

served as a stagecoach stop,

sauce for accompanying

dispenses specialty cocktails

inn and community gathering

vegetables. Eight-ounce

and beer on tap, bottled

spot, has housed many

burgers come with various

or canned.

Popular appetizers by

n Autre Monde Café: 6727 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn.

708 775-8122. Mediterranean-infused fare served in an urban setting. Capacity: 85, 75 patio seating.

Yrs in bus: 5. Entrée prices: $13-$24, smaller plates $6-$15. Chef’s Choice: Pastas made fresh daily and flatbreads. Extras: Outdoor patio, private parties, catering, wine list, Sun brunch 10-2. T-Th 5-10, F-Sat 5-11, Sun 5-9. Reservations: Yes. n Barrel + Rye: 477 S Third St, Geneva.

630 402-0647. American bistro featuring craft beers, venison burgers and small shareable plates.

Capacity: 32, 25 at bar. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Southern deep fried chicken. Entrée prices: $9-$16.

Extras: TVs, full bar, free Wi-Fi, carry-out, selection of whiskey, scotch and bourbon, patio. Sun-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-2 am. Reservations: No. n Basils Greek Dining: 4000 Fox Valley Center

The well-stocked bar

– T.R. Witom

and contemporary authentic Italian dining in a casual, friendly setting. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 9.

Chef’s Choice: Black fettuccine with lobster & wild mushrooms. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Exhibition kitchen, bar, wine list, children’s menu, gluten-free menu, carry-out, catering, private parties, family friendly. M-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11-9.

Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 20560 N Rand Rd, Deer Park, 847 438-1850. n The burger Local: 577 S 3rd St, Geneva.

630 232-2806. Locally sourced beef burgers made in a rustic environment. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 1.

Chef’s Choice: Double Diner or Hawaii burger.

Entrée prices: $11-$15. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. Sun-T 11-9, W-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11 (bar open later). Reservations: No.

Dr, Aurora. 630 692-1300. Award-winning Greek/ Mediterranean restaurant with a modern flair.

Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Oven roasted lamb shank. Entrée prices: $21-$49. Extras: Bar, banquets, outdoor dining, catering, carry-out, craft beer on tap. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9.

Reservations: Yes.

n Capri Ristorante: 324 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Burr Ridge. 630 455-4003. Authentic Italian fare served in a warm, elegant setting. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Homemade rigatoni with vodka sauce, with soup or salad. Entrée prices: $15-$40.

Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, outdoor dining, private parties. M 11:30-2 & 4-10, T-F 11:30-10, Sat 4-11, Sun 2-9. Reservations: Recommended.

n Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2752 Showplace Dr, Naperville. 630 428-8500. Classic

n Carlucci: 1801 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove.

630 512-0990. Rustic Italian restaurant serving Tuscan

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By Tom Witom

Photos courtesy of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

GoOd food

Reel Club Longtime Oak Brook restaurant’s fresh take on seafood

F

or a variety of reasons, many restaurants find themselves treading water just to get through their first year or two.

So when a fine dining establishment finds itself going strong after nearly a decade, the dining public takes note. One such venue is Reel Club in Oakbrook Center, a Lettuce Entertain You property.

A recent dinner there quickly confirmed that Reel Club continues to operate on more than an even keel.

The wait staff is on the ball and Executive chef James Woodfork’s simple yet sophisticated menu focuses largely on fresh fish and seafood and made-to-order sushi rolls. The kitchen also appeases landlubbers by offering a handful of steak and chicken dishes.

Still-warm cheddar cheese popovers were brought to the table. But be forewarned — these tasty morsels, a house specialty, can be addictive.

Our meal started with a shared order of grilled calamari. The perfectly cooked squid went well with a balsamic glaze, a mild giardiniera and arugula.

Other available appetizers included Maryland shore lump crab cake, Gulf shrimp cocktail, seared sesame Ahi tuna

and Alaskan King Crab cocktail, among others.

Soup fans will want to consider a cup or bowl of New England clam chowder or seafood gumbo.

Rainbow trout, grilled to perfection, got a flavor Bacon-wrapped shrimp with mashed potatoes boost from a lemon vinaigrette and candied pecan garnish. caramel pie to chocolate mousse cake — However, a side of roasted green beans are all made in-house. The traditional could have lingered for a few more New York cheesecake met expectations minutes in the skillet. for something sweet but not cloying.

Meanwhile, a fellow diner relished Reel Club’s beverage menu covers his entree: Block Island sea scallops a lot of ground, too. The eclectic mix — eight beauties in all — gently roasted includes both artisan beers and welland served with an asparagus risotto established brands, signature cocktails with shaved parmesan. and wines sold by the glass or bottle.

Cocktails are blended from premium Greek-style preparation is another house-infused liquors, fresh fruits option offered by Reel Club. The kitchen and herbs. will grill or broil such fish as Chilean Sea Bass or Lake Superior Whitefish with The restaurant, done up in mellow olive oil, lemon and herbs served over earth tones, has a contemporary feel long-grain basmati rice. that’s warm and inviting. Guests sit at cozy booths or strategically placed tables Still other specialties include seafood and chairs. salad, grilled Mahi tacos, ginger-glazed Atlantic salmon and a Greek-style A special hats-off to the attentive staff mixed grill. for its top-notch service.

A selection of familiar desserts Food is served daily at lunch, dinner, — from lemon meringue pie to salted Sunday brunch and happy hour n

QUICK FACTS

Reel Club

272 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook 630 368-9400 www.reel-club.com

Recommended Dishes

Cost

Hours

Extras

Grilled calamari,

Starters: $7 to $17

Mon - Thur: 11:15 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Valet parking ($4)

rainbow trout and

Fish: $28 to $56

Fri - Sat: 11:15 a.m. - 10: 30 p.m.

Wi-Fi

roasted sea scallops

Sandwiches: $13 - $21

Sun 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Catering

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DIning cuisine. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Linguini bobonato. Entrée prices: $12-$33. Extras: Carry-out, private dining, outdoor dining, bar open later, live entertainment. Lunch M-F 11:30-3:30; Dinner M-Th 3:30-9:30, F 3:30-10:30, Sat 4:30-10:30, Sun 4:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Catch 35: 35 S Washington St, Naperville.

630 717-3500. A deep and interesting variety of flavorful seafood and premium steaks in an uptown atmosphere. Capacity: 192. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Chilean sea bass. Entrée prices: $16-$50.

Extras: Bar, private parties, family friendly, outdoor dining, valet parking T-Sat. Lunch M-Sat 11:30-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Cine Modern Taqueria: 29 E First St, Hinsdale.

630 590-5655. Contemporary Mexican restaurant serving quality Latin fare. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Mole Negro. Entrée prices: $16$30. Extras: Outdoor dining, carry-out, delivery, daily specials, full bar, live entertainment on Th, free kids’ tacos on Sun. Lunch T-Sat 11:30-2:30; Dinner Sun-M 5-9, T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11. Reservations: Yes. n CityGate Grille: 2020 Calamos Ct, Naperville.

630 718-1010. Fine dining serving contemporary American fare in a steakhouse atmosphere.

Capacity: 220. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Seared Diver Scallops and Steak Risotto. Entrée prices: $18-$39, Avg: $25. Extras: Live music F-Sat, private parties, catering, kids’ menu. M-Th 11:30-9, F 11:30-10, Sat 5-10 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes. n Clara’s: 6550 S Rt 53, Woodridge. 630 968-8899.

Fresh homemade pastas and sauces, fresh seafood, handmade wood stone pizzas, veal and beef dishes.

Capacity: 275. Yrs in bus: 29. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp Ersilia. Entrée prices: $8-$35, Avg: $12. Extras: Bar, patio, catering, carry-out, family friendly. T-Th 4-9,

F-Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9. Reservations: Yes. n COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT: 510

Village Center Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 887-0123. Upscale, yet casual dining featuring award-winning wines from Cooper’s Hawk’s own winery. Capacity: 300.

Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi Carbonara.

Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Outdoor patio, bar, wine club, tasting room, retail boutique, private parties, full wine list, live music Th-Sat. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Recommended.

Additional locations at 100 W Higgins Rd, South Barrington, 847 836- 9463; and 1740 Freedom Dr, Naperville, 630 245-8000. n Country House: 2095 S Kirk Rd, Geneva.

630 208-8181. Steaks, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, salads and pasta in a casual and rustic setting.

Capacity: 240 at 30 tables inside, 70 outside. Yrs in bus: 40. Chef’s Choice: Country Cheeseburger.

Entrée prices: $9-$20, Avg: $12. Extras: Carry-out, bar, kids’ menu, outdoor dining, catering and banquets.

Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11; bar open until 1 am daily.

Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 241 55th St, Clarendon Hills, 630 325-1444; and 6460 College Rd, Lisle, 630 983-0545.

chicken in a 1940s-style Route 66 roadhouse featuring video gaming. Capacity: 225 at 40 tables. Yrs in bus: 70. Chef’s Choice: 50/50 burger and breakfast burger. Entrée prices: $10-$20, Avg: $13. Extras: Carry-out, bar, catering, over 50 beers. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes. n Devon Seafood + steak: 17W400 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 516-0180. Sleek, upscale venue serving fresh seafood and steak. Capacity: 237. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Maple Plank Salmon Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Entrée prices: $21-$58, lunch $11-$25. Extras: Private banquet room, vegetarian and gluten-free menus, wine list, happy hour M-F, full bar (open later), half-priced wine bottles on Mondays. M 11-9 T-F 11-10, Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.

n Davanti Enoteca: 800 W Hillgrove Ave, Western

n Ditka’s: Rt 83 & 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace.

630 572-2200. Fine dining steakhouse also offering fresh seafood, burgers and sandwiches in a hospitable and vibrant atmosphere. Capacity: 350.

Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Da Pork Chop and Pot Roast Nachos. Entrée prices: $10-$50. Extras: Awardwinning wine list, full bar, private rooms, breakfast on Sat & Sun 9-2, complimentary valet parking, gluten-free options. M-F 11-10, Sat 9-10, Sun 9-9.

Reservations: Yes. Additional location in Chicago.

Springs. 708 783-1060. Simple Italian fare served in a rustic wine bar setting. Capacity: 130 plus 30 on a seasonal patio. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Focaccia di Recco, Burratta Salad and Davante Burger. Entrée prices: $11-$24. Extras: Brunch Sat 11-2 and Sun 10-2, full bar, daily specials, Bloody Mary bar, M-F rotating sandwich menu. M-T 11:30-9, W-Th 11:30-9:30, F 11:30-10, Sat 11-10, Sun 10-9 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes.

n D.O.C. Wine Bar: 326 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 627-6666. Light, contemporary fare featuring more than 300 wines. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Butcher’s block. Entrée prices: $9-$35. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, lounge, wine flights, retail shop, private dining, daily specials.

M-Th 11:30-10, F-Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-9:30.

Reservations: Yes.

n Dell Rhea Chicken Basket: 645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried

n Eddie Merlot’s: 28254 Diehl Rd, Warrenville.

630 393-1900. Upscale contemporary steakhouse

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DIning

Photo courtesy of Barrel House Social

n n n n Recently Opened

Barrel House Social Modern gastro pub with smoke-centric dishes in downtown La Grange

L

ocated at the heart

unexpected twist to familiar

made with house-cured

of pedestrian-friendly

plates, such as the bourbon-

and smoked pastrami is the

La Grange, Barrel House

glazed salmon appetizer or

star of a sandwich menu

Social at 100 W. Burlington

the shareable cheesy bacon

that also includes vegetarian

(708 469-7529) offers whiskey-

dip — ­ a creamy, spicy blend

and vegan options.

and-smoke infused dishes

of house-made bacon jam

Barrel House serves just one

in a warm, rustic setting

and cream cheese, plus Fresno

dessert — a butter-whiskey

with barrel wood and brick

peppers for a sweet kick.

s’mores parfait. A robust drinks

accents. Executive chef Sean

menu includes cocktails, craft

Sanders, who earned his

Boar Shepherd’s Burger, topped

beers and 50 whiskeys, along

apron at various downtown

with mashed potatoes and

with a whiskey-based Social

Chicago eateries, brings an

peas. A deli-style sandwich

Punch.

A popular entrée is the Wild

with a lighter ambiance also known for its wine.

Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Prime aged steaks and wagyu. Entree prices: $23-$51.

Extras: Extensive wine list, outdoor dining, lounge with drink specials. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9.

Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 201 Bridewell Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 468-2098. n Empire Burgers & Brews: 48 W Chicago Ave,

Naperville. 630 355-9000. Craft beers and burgers in an urban atmosphere. Extras: Carry-out, full bar, whiskey selection, live music, outdoor seating, happy hour. M-Th 11-1 am, F-Sat 11-2 am, Sun 11-midnight. Reservations: Accepted. n The Finery & Blacksmith Bar: 305 W Main St, St. Charles 630 940-2380. Contemporary fare with an ode to the American table in a bistro-like atmosphere. Capacity: Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Country Pheasant and Flat Iron Steak. Extras: Artisan cocktails, craft beers, Happy Hour, family friendly, carry-out, Sunday brunch. T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 11-3 and 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Emilio’s Tapas Bar: 4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside.

708 547-7177. Spanish tapas in an authentic countryside atmosphere. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 28. Chef’s Choice: Paella and Datiles con Bacon.

Entrée prices: $6-$16 per person. Extras: flowered

–Anne Knudsen

patio, online reservations, carry-out, bar, family friendly, “Tapeo” $1.95 bites menu 4:30-6:30 M-Fri, GrubHub and Yelp Eat 24, live entertainment Fridays, full bar, catering. M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Fire + Wine: 433 N Main St, Glen Ellyn.

630 793-9955. Rustic and inviting restaurant with modern Italian flair, serving small-plate fare, authentic Neapolitan artesian pizzas and classic pastas in a family friendly atmosphere. Capacity: 135. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Hanger Steak and Grilled Romaine Salad. Entrée prices: $7-$19.

Extras: Bar, carry-out, wine list, craft beer, family friendly, kids’ menu, private event hosting, specials.

T-Th 4-11, F 4-midnight, Sat 3-midnight Sun 3-10.

Reservations: Call-ahead seating. n Fogo De CHAo: 1824 Abriter Ct, Naperville.

630 955-0022. Brazilian steakhouse known for its churrasco style of cooking various meats over an open fire in a warm, contemporary atmosphere.

Capacity: 200. Mths in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Cordeiro and Picanha. Entrée prices: Avg: $32/$49. Extras: Full bar, family friendly, valet, seasonal patio, Sunday brunch. Lunch: Sun-F 11-2; Dinner: M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 5460 Park Pl, Rosemont, 847 678-7200.

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n Fuller House: 35 E First St, Hinsdale. 630 537-1653.

Craft beer and bar food in an industrial, rustic setting. Capacity: 140. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Buffalo shrimp or brisket grilled cheese. Entrée prices: $11-$20. Extras: Updated sound system, TVs, sidewalk seating, full bar, carry-out, beer garden in The Backyard. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 11-10. Reservations: Yes, for 6 or more. n Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse: 5464 N River

Rd, Rosemont. 847 928-9900. Classic American steakhouse offering USDA Prime Steaks, fresh seafood and huge portions in a 1920s art-deco style setting. Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: WR’s Chicago Cut. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Carry-out, catering, free valet parking, private parties, piano bar (open until 2 am), entertainment.

M-Sun 11-2. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 2105 S Spring Rd, Oak Brook, 630 954-0000. n Gia Mia: 106 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 480-2480.

Old-world authentic Neapolitan pizza in a rustic restaurant. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 1.5. Chef’s Choice: Hand-crafted meatballs. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Newly renovated space, full bar, TVs, carry-out, large wine selection, fresh ingredients from local sources, mobile brick-oven. M 4-9, T-Th 11-2 and 4-10, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: No, but call-ahead seating available. Additional location at 13 N Third St. Geneva, 630 405-5544. n Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel.

630 953-3400. Classic Italian steakhouse in a sportsthemed atmosphere. Capacity: 550. Yrs in bus: 9.

Chef’s Choice: Prime steaks, chops and Italian Specialties. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Outdoor dining, bar, sports memorabilia, carry-out, private events. Lunch M-Sun 11-5 (bar only); Dinner M-Sat 5-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 10233 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, 847 699-1200. n Heaven On Seven: 224 S Main St, Naperville.

630 717-0777. Louisiana-style restaurant featuring Cajun and Creole entrées. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp voodoo over rice.

Entrée prices: $9-$20. Extras: Cooking classes, bar, catering. M-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sat 10-11 pm, Sun 10-9, Sat-Sun brunch 10-3. Reservations: Yes. n Hillgrove Tap: 800 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 290-0055. Traditional bar fare with a creative twist served up in a family friendly neighborhood sports bar. Capacity: 115, plus 50 on a seasonal patio. Years in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Nacho Bites or Bourbon Glazed Pork Chop. Entrée prices: $12-$19. Extras: TVs, 24 craft beers on tap, selection of bourbons and whiskeys, carry-out, full bar, outdoor seating. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun 11-10 pm. Reservations: Yes. n Holy Mackerel!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3444. Fresh interpretations on fish house classics in a vintage décor. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Kasu marinated sea bass. Entrée prices: $9-$46. Extras: Private parties, bar, carry-out. Breakfast M-Sat 6-11, Sun 6 am-noon; Lunch M-Sat 11-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-9.

Reservations: Yes. n Ivy Restaurant: 120 N Hale St, Wheaton.

630 665-2489. Casually elegant dining featuring steaks, chops and seafood. Capacity: 170, plus 90 on the patio. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Black pepper shrimp. Entrée prices: Avg: $19. Extras: Banquets, outdoor dining, carry-out. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. n Kama Bistro: 9 S La Grange Rd, La Grange.

708 352-3300. Fresh and modern Indian fare with unique tastes served in an upscale and cozy setting. Capacity: 55 plus 20 on patio. Yrs in bus: 5. Chef’s Choice: Lamb Chop Masala. Entrée

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cheers

DIning

By Buzz Brandt

prices: $10-$34. Extras: Catering, gluten-free & vegan options, carry-out, delivery, patio.

M 4-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11:30-9. Reservations: Yes.

The Acid Test

n MÉcÉnat Bistro: 821 W Burlington Ave, Western

Springs. 708 246-8668. American eclectic fare.

Capacity: 110. Yrs in bus: 5.5. Chef’s Choice: Pan seared whitefish. Entrée prices: $12-$30. Extras: Outdoor dining, full bar, live entertainment F & Sat nights, private dining, retail wine shop. T-Th 4-11, F-Sat 4-midnight, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Yes.

A quest for enhanced flavor and palate-cleansing freshness

A

cidity is a fundamental — and appealingly desirable — characteristic of good wine, enhancing flavor compounds with a tart, mouth-puckering, palate-cleansing freshness that makes wine lovers salivate for more. In many red wines acidity is at low levels, while in most whites the opposite is true. But in all complex varietals acidity is vital to structure, balance, age-worthiness and the integration of sweetness, tannins and alcohol.

When a wine has too much acid it can taste harsh and sour, but when acidity is too low the mouth feel is flat and “flabby.”

Three primary natural or “fixed” acids are prevalent in wine grapes: tartaric and malic (which make up 90 percent of acids found in wine), and citric. On its own, tartaric acid (found primarily in grapes) is sour and a bit harsh, while malic acid lends the flavors of crisp Granny Smith apples, and citric acid provides the tastes of lemons and limes. Present to a lesser degree are the “volatile” acids (acetic, butyric, lactic and succinic) which are products of fermentation and interactions with yeast and bacteria. When the harsher malic acid is

converted into lactic acid (malolactic fermentation), the result is the creamy, buttery unctuousness of, for example, Napa Chardonnays (although many red wines are softened by minimal malolactic fermentation).

One volatile acid has a dark side, however: acetic acid — normally at minuscule levels — can transmute a wine into vinegar.

On the vine, young grape berries are highly acidic, a factor that mellows and sweetens over time.

In this regard, climate plays a key role. In regions of higher altitude and cooler climates or shorter growing seasons, grapes

will be more acidic while warmer areas produce grapes with more sugar and therefore less acid.

Some wines associated with higher levels of acidity are New Zealand and Sancerre Sauvignon Blancs; Vouvrays (Chenin Blanc); Chablis; Mosel Rieslings; some Pinot Noirs; and Chiantis.

Since acid cuts through richness, it’s best to pair these wines with fatty or sweet dishes to complement and round out the flavors in the mouth. Foods high in acids such as vinegar or lemon juice should be matched with highly acidic wines. n

n Melting Pot: 255 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg.

847 843-8970. Traditional and European fondue in a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Capacity: 131 at 31 tables. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Fondue.

Entrée prices: $32-$45. Extras: Bar, extensive wine list, ladies night. M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4-11, Sun noon-9.

Reservations: Recommended. Additional locations at 1205 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove, 630 737-0810; and 4931 S Rt 59, Naperville, 630 717-8301. n Morton’s: 1751 Freedom Dr, Naperville.

630 577-1372. Steaks and seafood in an upscale American steakhouse featuring an a la carte menu. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Porterhouse steak. Entrée prices: $40-$60. Extras: Bar, valet parking every day but M, lounge, private dining, patio. M-Th 5:30-10, F 5:30-11, Sat 5-11, Sun 5-10 (bar opens at 4). Additional locations at 9525 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, 847 678-5155; and 1470 McConnor Pkwy, Schaumburg, 847 413-8771. n Maya Del Sol: 144 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park.

708 358-9800. Casual, yet upscale New World Latin dining. Capacity: 175, 130 outdoors. Yrs in bus: 8.

Chef’s Choice: Carne asada. Entrée prices: $14$36. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, live entertainment, gluten and dairy free options, catering, carry-out, private dining. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9, Sun brunch 9-2. Reservations: Yes. n Nobel House: 305 W State St, Geneva.

630 402-0452. American comfort food and handcrafted cocktails served up at this gastropub. Capacity: 70.

Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Big Texas Burger. Entrée prices: $10-$24. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, free Wi-Fi, TVs, catering, brunch Sat & Sun, kids’ menu. M-T 11-10, W-Th 11-11, F 11-2 am, Sat-Sun 10-2 am. Reservations: No. n Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille: 5 Oakbrook

Expert wine recommendations • Bruce Jaroski Malloy’s Finest 1175 E. Ogden Ave., Naperville 2015 Murdoch James Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) $19. Dry, crisp and clean with an array of gooseberry and citrus that blends into a juicy palate of lime, apple and orange. A racy acidity and a lovely mineral finish.

2012 Pago Casa Gran Falcata (Spain)$18. Blend of Monastrell, Syrah and Garnacha

with earthy aromas mingled with flavors of plums, raspberries and black cherries along with hints of licorice, minerals and mint.

• Victoria Peterson Peterson Spirits and Fine Wines 88 W. Gartner Rd., Naperville 2015 Left Coast Cellars White Pinot Noir (Oregon) $20. White Pinot with scents of cherries, peaches, pears, nectarines and honey and

flavors of apples, citrus, peaches, melons and apricots. Tart acidity and a mineral finish.

2014 Shannon Ridge Buck Shack Cabernet Sauvignon (Calif.) $20. Textured red and black berry and cherry fruits underscored by opulent notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, white pepper and oak.

The tannins are well integrated and the finish is long.

Center, Oak Brook. 630 571-1808. Classic steakhouse with premium steaks and fare with tableside preparation.

Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: 14–oz New York Strip steak. Entrée prices: $26-$59. Extras: Private dining rooms, island bar, seasonal patio, live music M-Sat, carry-out. M-Th & Sat 4-10, F 11-10,Sun 4-9 (bar open later). Reservations: Yes. n Plank Bar & Kitchen: 120 Water St, Naperville.

630 778-9676. Upscale bar serving tastes of local food in a rustic modern atmosphere. Capacity: 50, 12 at bar. Chef’s Choice: Beer braised short rib or Mezcal brined pork tacos. Entrée prices: $12-$28.

Extras: Covered and valet parking. Breakfast M-F 6:30-10:30, Sat-Sun 7:30-11:30; Dinner M-Sun 4:30-10 (bar until 11). Reservations: Yes. n Parkers’ Restaurant & BAr: 1000 31st St,

Downers Grove. 630 960-5700. Casually elegant restaurant serving a contemporary American menu. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 15. Chef’s Choice: Cedar-planked halibut and charcoal-grilled center cut pork chop. Entrée prices: $14-$65, Avg: $32.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private dining, live music in lounge W-Sat. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-8:30.

Reservations: Recommended. n Patten House Restaurant & Bar 124 S Second St, Geneva. 630 492-5040. A newly renovated historic landmark featuring a distinctive

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menu with a Cajun flair. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: BBQ Pork Sandwich and Honey Sriracha Glazed Brussel Sprouts. Entrée prices: $18-$30. Extras: Full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 10-10. Reservations: Yes.  PATIO RESTAURANT: 7440 S Kingery Hwy (Rt 83),

Darien. 630 920-0211. Casual dining featuring American food and specializing in BBQ ribs. Capacity: 300.

Yrs in bus: 27. Chef’s Choice: BBQ ribs. Entrée prices: $7-$22. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, drive-up. M-Th 10:30-10, F-Sat 10:30-11 pm, Sun 10:30-9:30. Reservations: No. Additional locations at 4400 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora. 630 820-8800; 151 S Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, 630 226-9696; and 2780 S Highland Ave, Lombard, 630 627-2600.  ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA: 483 Spring

Rd, Elmhurst. 630 279-8486. Italian cuisine served in a romantic, neighborhood setting accented by white tablecloths. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 54.

Chef’s Choice: Fish entrées. Entrée prices: $14-$44.

Extras: Carry-out, bar, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, banquets. M-Th 11-11, F 11-midnight, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-10. Reservations: Yes. .  SEASONS 52: 3 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook.

630 571-4752. Fresh grill and wine bar focusing on low-calorie entrées and farmers’ market-influenced fare. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Caramelized sea scallops. Entrée prices: $16-$25.

Extras: Extensive wine list, live music, private dining.

M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes, recommended. Additional location at 1770 E Higgins Rd, Schaumburg. 847 517-5252.  SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE: 244 S Main St, Naperville.

630 305-0230. Steak, chops and seafood in a 1940s Chicago-style décor. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 18.

Chef’s Choice: Seafood and steak. Entrée prices: $30-$60. Extras: Bar, live entertainment, valet parking.

Lunch M-F 11:30-4:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4:30-11, Sun 4:30-10. Reservations: Recommended.  SUSHI HOUSE: 830 E Ogden Ave, Westmont.

630 920-8948. Sushi, sashimi and other Japanese fare. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Cracker Roll. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Carryout, catering, delivery, private parties, kids’ menu, sushi bar, beer & wine. M-F 11:30-10, Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 950 Warren St, Downers Grove, 630 968-0088; 1107 Lake St, Oak Park, 708 660-8899; and 281 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630 221-8986.  SUZETTE’S: CREPERIE: 211 W Front St, Wheaton.

630 462-0898. Crêperie, pâtisserie, boulangerie, French country bistro and wine bar in a casual setting. Capacity: 88. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Beef bourguignon crêpe and Suzette’s benedict.

Entrée prices: $13-$40. Extras: Wine bar, bakery, carry-out, full bar, outdoor dining, private parties, boutique weddings, occasional live music. Pâtisserie open at 7 am, M-Sat, Sun brunch 11-2, afternoon tea T-Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm. Breakfast T-Sat 7-11 am, Sun 8-11 am; Lunch T-Sat 11-4; Dinner T-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended.  VIE: 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-2082.

Seasonal, contemporary American à la carte menu with European influences in an elegant atmosphere.

Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi.

Entrée prices: $26-$46. Extras: Bar, new lounge space, gluten-free and vegetarian options, monthly Sunday suppers. M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10. Reservations: Yes.  YORK TAVERN: 3702 York Rd, Oak Brook.

630 323-5090. The oldest, continuously operating restaurant in DuPage County, restored and updated in 2006, serving burgers and American fare.

Capacity: 60. Yrs in bus: 172. Chef’s Choice: Burgers.

Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Carry-out, bar. M-F 11-1 am, Sat 11-2 am, Sun noon-10. Reservations: No.

Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs 483 Spring Road www.robertosristorante.com

•

Elmhurst

630.279.8486

Mon - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm • Fri 11 am - midnight • Sat 4 pm - midnight • Sun 2 - 10 pm

COMING IN SEPTEMBER

DINING GUIDE Don’t miss our annual review of more than

500 area restaurants!

For subscription information or to advertise in the Dining Guide, call 630 834-4994 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 77

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Charitable Events of Note

APPROXIMATELY 200 GIRLS AND WOMEN attended Robert Crown Center for Health Education’s recent 5th Annual Happy to Be Me! Luncheon, the aim of which was to raise awareness regarding the tendency among young girls to experience diminishing self-esteem as they enter adolescence.

Attendees enjoyed presentations, boutique shopping opportunities, a raffle and more at the event, which raised $14,000 for the Robert Crown Center’s “Education for All” fund. The goal of the fund is to provide health education programs to schools and communities that cannot afford to pay for them.

Photos courtesy of Wheaton Park District

SCENE&SEEN

Photos courtesy of the Robert Crown Center for Health Education

Marty Keller of Wheaton deals blackjack

O E “ T s a

OVER $13,000 WAS RAISED for the DuPage County Historical Museum Foundation at its Casino Royale event in early March. The 180 guests witnessed the museum transformed into a James Bond-esque casino, featuring poker, blackjack and more. A silent auction, prizes and a raffle were also available to the guests at the event. The money that was raised will go towards providing financial support to the museum, which includes keeping admission, educational programs and events free to the public.

Kerry O’Brien of Wheaton places her bid at the craps table.

Scott and Susan Shorney of Wheaton

Robert Crown Center Board Member Sasha Bigda of St. Charles with daughter Aricin Jilly Casey and daughters Bella and Haley of Hinsdale

Maya Zander and Jessica and Allison Parks, students at Madison Elementary School in Hinsdale

ON MARCH 6, THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION hosted an intimate kick-off reception for the 30th Annual Rita Hayworth Gala at Francesca’s on Taylor in Little Italy.

Over 50 attendees learned about the organization’s upcoming gala to be held May 13 at the Chicago Hilton to raise funds for research to help find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease.

Photo courtesy of Bill Richert

Tom Pyrdek of Wheaton comments on a blackjack hand.

Carolyn McDonald of West Chicago and Alison Jurek of Oak Park

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Photos courtesy of Rich Howe Photography

Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley 39th Annual Benefit Gala Committee Members (from left), Lisa McDougal, Lisa Hallen, Cairy Brown and Jo Davis, all of Glen Ellyn; Mary Morrow of Carol Stream; Penelope Prior of Willow Springs; and (center) Mary Jo Day of Roselle

Gala Ambassadors Charlie Lettenberger and his sister, Ahalya Lettenberger of Glen Ellyn

On April 8, more than 400 people attended Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley’s 39th Annual benefit “Our Kind of Gala” at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago.

The Chicago-themed event raised more than $425,000 to support therapy services and programs for infants, children and adults with disabilities.

2017 Carol & Jack Sanicki Crystal Heart Award Recipients Carmen and Ray Boroughf of Roselle with Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley Board Chairman John Jostrand of Chicago and President & CEO Theresa Forthofer of Plainfield

Comprised of booths featuring information about countries around the world, the 2017 DuPage & Kane County 4-H International Night events held recently in St. Charles and Wheaton were attended by over 400 people. The different 4-H clubs spent months studying their countries to present geographical, economic and cultural aspects of each nation. The DuPage County event raised more than $2,000 for the DuPage County 4-H Foundation, a not-for-profit group which provides 4-H Youth Development scholarships.

It also supports community programs provided by the University of Illinois Extension in DuPage County.

4-H’ers (front from left) Hope Dela Rosa, Malcolm Smeltzer, Autumn Heberg, Meredith Smeltzer, Sam Dela Rosa, (back from left) Daniel Smeltzer, Jason Smeltzer and Inaara Hussain show some of the fun features of the 4-H Clovers Club booth about North Korea and South Korea. The club’s members are from various towns, including Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Glendale Heights and Montgomery.

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4/20/17 5:14 PM

Last Word

By Michele Weldon

When Names Escape Us How is it that our minds often inexplicably go blank, even when meeting longtime friends?

I

was recently invited to a reunion for a newspaper — now defunct — where I worked in the 1980s. I loved my job and made good friends, many of whom I am still close with and see often. But it was a big place with hundreds of employees, and I did not work directly with everyone there or know them all well.

The problem is if I go to the reunion, I know I will not be able to remember anyone’s name. And if there are no name tags, I am doomed. Because, well, it’s just that simple, I can’t remember names.

Never mind that it was more than 30 years ago when I worked at the newspaper, my name-recall problem persists even with people I met just last week. I remember their faces, yes, maybe even their job titles.

But not their names. For some inexplicable reason, the names get erased.

Call me selfish, call me self-absorbed, call me simply inept and impolite. But I don’t do it on purpose. What was your name again?

With the weather warming up, my neighbors will be out and about on my block and beyond. I will run into them as I am walking to the local track or hanging out on the front lawn gardening — which is a euphemism for tending to the black holes on my grass. They will wave and call me by name and — even if they have lived across the street for 20 years — I will draw a blank.

My mind will start racing, jumping synapses, desperate for a moniker to cling to. Is it Julie? Colette? Maria? Oh, what is her husband’s name? Joe? David? No, that’s her son. Mostly I just wing it. It gets a little awkward when the other person keeps calling me by name, maybe as a test

“Call me selfish, call me self absorbed, call me simply inept and impolite. But I don’t do it on purpose. What was your name again?” to see if I will respond in kind. Most of the time, I just say, “hon.”

I have tried the classic mnemonic device for remembering names: pick a characteristic, link it to the name.

Moustache man reminds me of my Uncle Jim — his name is Jim. Woman who plays lacrosse, the sport my niece Katie coaches — her name is Katie. You get my drift.

The problem is that the brief encounter is often over before I can maneuver my way through this trick. I can be driving home from the event three hours later and burst out, “Alyssa!” to no one. The opportunity for redemption is long past. I swear I will remember the name before the next run-in, but that rarely happens.

I used to think my difficulty with name recollection was because I meet a lot of people in my work. As a university professor for 18 years, I taught more than 200 students a year. That’s 3,600 names to remember. As a journalist, I interview lots of people. As someone who leads workshops, gives seminars and keynotes, I meet hundreds of people once. And I forget their names as soon as I shake their hands.

It is not deliberate, it is not haughty, it is not because I think I am special. I don’t know why it is, but I recently forgot the name of someone I worked with years ago and her name was Michele.

One of my solutions is to immediately own up to my inability to name names.

“I’m Michele, I know we have met, but I can’t recall your name.” That seems to go well until someone responds with, “We have known each other since kindergarten.”

Another tactic is to introduce the person whose name I forgot to someone whose name I remember. “I would like you to meet Caryn,” I say to the forgotten one. Usually the person responds with a self-introduction. And no one is the wiser.

Maybe.

I notice not everyone is namechallenged. Maybe they are smarter than I am or have a brain with pipelines that are not mucked up with distractions.

Even my sons are better than me at names. Of course, I attribute that to my having decades more of name accumulation.

For instance, Colin will say, “I ran into Mary Jones, do you know her?” My response is, “Does she say she knows me?” I can usually figure out who she is by deconstructing the answer, even if the name offers no clue.

No, I am not proud of my forgetfulness about names. And I try not to cringe when people forget mine — that would be hypocritical. These days I often stammer for other informational tidbits, too, like the titles of books, movies, songs, you name it. Because I can’t.

I have decided that being able to search online for a name is why Google exists.

And now I have Siri on my phone. At least I think that’s her name. Or is it Sarah? n

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