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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4/19/17 11:19 AM
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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4/19/17 11:21 AM
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. WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 37
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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
BEST_TOWNS_05_17 FINAL.indd 40
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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 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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B
B
p c h
W f s w a l a w r
H s
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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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W 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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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
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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
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LINEA
HAIR SALON & DAY SPA Gift Certificates Always Make Great Gifts! THE LINEA STAFF MEMBERS OFFER: Facials • Make-up • Eyebrow Waxing • Precision Hair Cuts • Perms • Low Lights • High Lights • Colors • Manicures & Pedicures • Formal Occasion Styles •
Employment Opportunities Available
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. This summer, the line-up will expand to include a series of free outdoor concerts WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 67
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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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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
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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
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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
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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. WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MAY 2017 79
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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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