West Suburban Living June 2018 by West Suburban Living Magazine

 CUTTING GARDENS

 Q&A WITH SINGER/SONGWRITER JOHN PRINE

 SPOTLIGHT ON HINSDALE

JUNE 2018 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING • SUMMER FUN GUIDE

SUMMER VOL.

FUN GUIDE

23 •

Best festivals & fairs, concerts, special events, family fun and much more!

NUMBER 6

Car Crazed

From rare and vintage vehicles to muscle cars and more, classic automobiles are the prime attraction at summertime shows throughout the western suburbs

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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Managing Editor | Anne Knudsen Art Director | Rachel Switall Contributing Writers Laurie Barton, Emily Belden, Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Sara Pearsaul Vice, Lynn Petrak, Lisa Sloan, Candice Wagener and Michele Weldon Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Accounting Jennifer Cozette Circulation Coordinator Ken Cozette Editorial Intern Gabrielle Cone Reader Advisory Board Laurie Barton (Glen Ellyn) Linda Cassidy (Campton Hills) Photos by Graham Webb

Mary Ellen Coombs (Wheaton), Joan Hoff (Elmhurst)

IN EVERY ISSUE

M Grace Grzanek (Batavia), Liz Hunka (Wheaton) Nancy Jensen (Batavia), Holly Jordan (Wheaton) Mary Ellen Kastenholz (Western Springs)

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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. 23, No. 6 JUNE 2018; ISSN No. 1532-6705) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/December issues (10 times a year), by C2 Publishing, Inc., Suite 412, High Point Plaza, 4415 Harrison St., 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.

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Contents |

June

2018

Photo courtesy of Marvin Windows and Doors

West Suburban Living

Getaways A weekend ESCAPE to Oshkosh, the Fox Cities and Green Bay

Come for the air show then stay for the shopping, scenic vistas and summertime fun

Home&Garden

A Fresh Outlook

Love Is in Bloom

The latest trends in replacement windows and entry doors will improve your home’s view, indoors and out

Discover the joys of a garden of flowers meant to be cut and welcomed indoors

Photo courtesy of Wyler Studios

Town Focus

HINSDALE

A quaint historic town that Norman Rockwell might well have imagined

Cover photo of the Geneva Concours d’Elegance by Kimberly Shadduck

 Features 38

CAR CRAZED From rare and vintage vehicles to muscle cars and more, classic automobiles are the prime attraction at summertime shows throughout the western suburbs

Plainfield Cruise Nights

SUMMER FUN GUIDE Best festivals & fairs, concerts, special events, family fun, farmers markets, water parks and much more!

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Departments June

2018

SOUTH PACIFIC

EMERSON CREEK SHOP & TEAROOM

Photo courtesy of Emerson Creek Shop & Tearoom

Photo courtesy of Drury Lane Theatre

West Suburban Living

FOREWORD

From leaky faucet to kitchen makeover

BY THE NUMBERS

Q&A

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

For the 25th year, a flotilla of cardboard crafts sets sail to celebrate summer fun on Lake Ellyn

LAST WORD

The unwritten law of home repair

MURRAY BROs. Caddyshack

Around the Towns

Perspectives

With John Prine, former Maywood mailman turned Grammy Awardwinning singer-songwriter

Dining

REVIEW: Fuller House in Hinsdale

New book releases from west suburban writers

REVIEW: Il Vicolo Trattoria

SCENE & SEEN

LOCAL AUTHORS

in Oak Park

STOPS & SHOPS

Out&About ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

NEW RESTAURANTS

Cadence Kitchen & Co. in Downers Grove and Murray Bros. Caddyshack in Rosemont

Style&Fashion New stores and hidden gems

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

Intriguing numerical tidbits

A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events

Photo courtesy of Murray Bros. Caddyshack

CHEERS

Touriga Nacional: Portugalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature big bold red

The best in music, theatre and other area events

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editor’s Note Lessons Learned from a Leaky Faucet

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” - Robert Brault

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I can’t do interfere with what I can do.” - Edward Everett Hale

“The truth is rarely pure and never simple.”― - Oscar Wilde

“And which of you by being anxious can add a single cubit to his life’s span? If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why are you anxious about other matters.” - Luke: 12:25

he faucet to the kitchen sink of the old house we had recently purchased was leaking. We were relatively new homeowners at the time, so we were still blissfully naive of the implications of the little drip, drip, drip sound the leak was making. No problem, we thought. It’s just a little leaky faucet. Nothing a quick trip to the hardware store couldn’t fix, right? If you are a longtime homeowner, and especially if you have an older house, you know where this story is going because you have undoubtedly been there yourself, probably multiple times. Suffice it to say, when all was said and done, we had replaced the kitchen sink, bought new cabinets and countertops and were well on our way to a complete kitchen renovation which we had neither planned for nor could afford. You see, the sink was the old farmhouse style, with washboards on both sides and its own backsplash from which the faucet extended horizontally outward. Unfortunately, we were told at the hardware store — and by several plumbers we queried thereafter — that faucets for those kinds of sinks were no longer made. That’s when the implications started dawning on us. If we couldn’t get a replacement faucet, then we’d have to get a new sink. And if we were going to get a new sink, we’d also have to get a new cabinet and countertop for the sink to fit into. And, of course, the new cabinet would make the older ones look even worse by comparison, so we’d have to get all new cabinets and countertops. And why not put in a tile floor while we were at it, right? It turned out to be one very expensive leaky faucet! That project — and several others like it — came to mind when editing Michele

Weldon’s column, “The Unwritten Law of Home Repair,” on page 80. What is that unwritten law? That when it comes to home repair, one project inevitably leads to another, and another, and another, ad infinitum. Disconcerting to say the least but as Michele points out, also a bit humorous if viewed in the big picture perspective. This issue also contains a great article on the many classic car shows that go on each summer throughout the western suburbs (see Car Crazed on page 38). The shows draw thousands of people, from casual onlookers to true auto aficionados. Though not a big car guy myself, I understand the attraction. Some of those classic old cars had style that puts the current generation of non-descript, look-alike autos to shame. Finally, be sure to check out our Q&A with Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter John Prine on page 12. The onetime Maywood mailman has made quite a career in the music industry, yet remains as down-to-earth and straight forward as the lyrics to his songs. Since June marks the official arrival of Chicago’s all-too-brief summer, get out and enjoy the great weather while you can. And as always, thanks for being a reader!

Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net 8

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THE

AROUND TOWNS |

STOPS & SHOPS

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

LOCAL AUTHORS Photo courtesy of The Walldogs

Q&A

Walldogs Return

he Walldogs are back! Last seen in the western suburbs in 2009, when they painted 18 magnificent

outdoor murals in downtown Joliet, the next stop for this traveling troupe of master painters

artists are expected to converge upon the town, brushes in hand. By July 1, 16 glorious, retro-inspired murals based on themes like Streator Baseball, Glass Capital of the World, and In the Good Old Summertime

is a few miles southwest in Streator.

will echo the heart and history of Streator.

The event gets underway on

One more mural — a farm scene — will

the evening of June 28, when artists project images onto the walls of downtown buildings. Beyond a core group of highly skilled painters from around the globe, 200 local and regional

be painted by children. In planning since 2014, the event honors Streator’s 150th anniversary — quite a legacy for future generations. — Anne Knudsen WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JUNE 2018 11

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THE

BY NUMBERS

historic sites on a whistle stop tour of Hinsdale are at your

love seats, built for two and prettily decorated with summertime themes, will deck the

sidewalks of La Grange this summer. Hand painted

fingertips, thanks to a new app from

by local artists and sponsored by local businesses,

Hinsdale Historical Society. The app

they will be sold at auction at the West End

guides visitors along four GPS-enabled

Arts Festival on September 8, raising funds

tours of the village, and is complete

to benefit seven local charities that include the La Grange

with audio and archival photos. Look

Pet Parade. This is the 13th year that the town has created

for the Apple and Android compatible

art for public display.

downloads at www.hinsdalehistory.org.

Photo courtesy of Fermilab

It’s baby bison season at Fermilab in Batavia. The first calf was born early on the morning of April 15, with a second making its way into the world by noon. Since then, nine more calves have been born, with three or four more still expected. Fermilab welcomes visitors to view and photograph them daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The 100 percent purebred bison herd was established in 1969 as a symbol of the history of the

11 to 15

Midwestern prairie. The little herd of 15 cows, two bulls and — so far this year — 11 calves roams freely over

Goodbye Carson’s. Malls

1,100 acres of reconstructed tall-grass prairie.

1000 AD

, during the Aztec

10 + 2 in the western suburbs have recently lost or are soon to lose nine Carson’s stores

of water. As it fills with fish-effluent, the water

civilization, is a time when fish and food were

is circulated through a bio-filter into a soil-free

in Aurora, Bloomingdale,

cultivated together in perfect harmony. Hickory

plant bed, where microbes and worms

Dundee, Joliet, Lombard,

Knolls Discovery Center in St. Charles is

convert the harmful by-products into

Naperville, North Riverside,

beneficial fertilizer. The “plant-cleaned”

St. Charles and Schaumburg,

to help feed its resident critters.

water then completes its circuit back

plus the Carson’s Clearance

Aquaponics is a natural

into the tank. There are five different

ecosystem for raising aquatic

plants, including cabbages and

creatures in conjunction with

romaine lettuce.

plants via a circulating system that benefits both. Fish produce waste that

people is in liquidation. Bankrupt

Once the system is fully functioning, of rabbits, guinea pigs, turtles, lizards and

creating excellent fertilizer for plants.

cockroaches with 25 to 50 percent of their

At Hickory Knolls, two map turtles and

chain that employs 20,000 teen retailer Claire’s is also

Hickory Knolls hopes to provide its population

breaks down into nitrates and ammonia,

12 – 15 fish swim in a tank of 100 gallons

Center in Aurora. The 160-year-old department store

closing 92 stores nationwide, but just two locally — in Lombard and Schaumburg.

nutritional needs through aquaponics, eliminating the need to purchase greens.

10,000

fun-filled hours of service over 16 years are

logged to Dave Dumford, a 76-year-old volunteer at Naperville’s DuPage Children’s Museum. Dumford, who retired 28 years ago, lends his engineering and woodworking expertise — and his big, generous heart — to building and repairing exhibits so that children can learn as they play.

Photo courtesy of DuPage Children’s Museum

taking a lesson in ancient agriculture

$327.5 million In a deal set to close within 12 months, Eldorado Resorts is buying the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin from MGM Resorts International for a jackpot of $327.5 million. Ka-ching!

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Q&A

John Prine/ Photos courtesy of Oh Boy Records

The route from Maywood mailman to Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter n Which memories of growing up in Maywood stand out for you? JP: My three brothers and I all went to Proviso East High School. My Dad had gone there too for his last two years of high school. I had a great childhood growing up in Maywood. I knew every corner of the place. Strutzel’s Root Beer Stand was the best! n Did you have other favorite Maywood

For close to half a century, John PRine has ridden the waves of a changing music market with an impressive resilience and an ever-richer songbook. Named by Rolling Stone as one of America’s greatest singer-songwriters, his music is a mix of country, folk and rock-a-billy, underwritten by a beguiling three-chord simplicity. Born and raised in west suburban Maywood by parents from small-town Kentucky, Prine entered the military after high school and was stationed in Germany. His thoughts, though, were with those in Vietnam and he would later become known for anti-war songs like "Sam Stone" and "Flag Decal." Returning

haunts as a teen or young musician? JP: As a teen I would go to Maywood Pool Hall across from the police station. And we would all hang out at the Primrose and the Seville. After high school we would go to the El Morocco Lounge in Stone Park and hang downtown at the folk clubs. “Your flag decal won’t get you Into Heaven anymore, It’s already overcrowded, From your dirty little wars. Well, Jesus don’t like killing, No matter what the reason for, And your flag decal won’t get you Into Heaven anymore.” — John Prine, 1971

n How did you first get involved

in the Chicago music scene? JP: I took lessons at The Old Town School of Folk Music and I played at the Maywood Folk Fest in 1969. Nobody knew who I was. My first paid show was at the Fifth Peg on West Armitage. n Songs like “Paradise” and “Sam

Stone” tell such vivid stories. Have you always been a storyteller? JP: I was a terrible student in high school but could always get an A when the teacher asked us to write a narrative or dialogue. Those assignments always came easy to me. I learned to tell stories on stage when I was tuning my guitar because I was really bad at tuning so I had to kill time. Turned out, the audiences liked my stories! n Where does your sense of humor

come from? JP: I think I got it from my family. My mother came from a really big family back in Kentucky and they would all tell stories about growing up there. We would entertain ourselves listening to all those stories.

delivering the mail to Maywood homes. A clue to Prine’s enduring popularity is his uncanny ability to articulate the thoughts of ordinary people in song. Lyrical storylines intertwine with playful humor and the outcome resonates with honesty and a rare emotional connection. Prine's new album, The Tree of Forgiveness, was released in early summer by his independent label, Oh Boy Records, located in Nashville, the city he now makes home.

Q&A

n When did you first pick up the guitar and write your first song? JP: My oldest brother, Dave, taught me three chords on the guitar when I was about 14. He was teaching himself to play fiddle and needed someone to play rhythm for him. I believe I wrote my first songs in that first year after I learned to play.

RAPID FIRE

n Which usually comes first, the lyrics or the melody? JP: Usually the lyrics and melody arrive together. Sometimes the words come first and will bring the melody with them. n From listening to your early albums

and some bootleg recordings, you played with some of the greatest

Do you have a favorite guitar? The

on the table on stage, and an old

custom Martin D28 they made for me.

quarter, dime, nickle and penny,

What will you always find in your

though nobody knew about that

w m m J v w o N

s i J o L W a S Y

Three words that best describe

Favorite song to play right now?

pockets? Money, a pocket knife,

until recently.

you? Lazy, crazy and sweet

“Summer’s End,” from my new

and a guitar capo and thumb pick.

If you could spend half an hour

Luke’s Beef or Johnnie’s? Johnnie’s

record. Best venue to play? I always

Do you have a good luck charm

on a park bench with a fellow

What song do you play to please

love playing at The Chicago Theatre

for going on stage? Nothing crazy.

musician, who would it be? I’d love

the crowds? “Flag Decal.”

and the Ryman in Nashville.

I like to have photos of my family

to have sat with Hank Williams, Sr.

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Q&A_6_18 FINAL.indd 14

stateside, Prine worked as a mailman in Maywood. Early songs, like “Hello in There,” were written while

C e J j g p H

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n D J o r

but the shows are going really well and I’m enjoying singing new songs for the fans. n Do you prefer the larger venues

or smaller theaters? JP: I like theaters — there are some gorgeous ones around the country now. Older venues that have been completely refurbished. I usually play anywhere from 2,500 to 3,500 seats. n Tell our readers about the new

Chicago musicians. Who did you most enjoy playing with? JP: Steve Goodman. Steve was not just a fellow musician — he was a really good buddy. I used to hang out and play with Bonnie Koloc and Eddie Holstein, too. n You’ve been on stage or recorded

with some of the biggest names in music. Can you share a couple of memorable moments? JP: It was a lot of fun getting to make a video with Tom Petty (“Picture Show”). He was a great guy. Springsteen jumped up on stage with me at a show in Terrytown, New York. That was a lot of fun, too. n Your songs have been recorded by

some of the biggest names in the music industry. Do you have favorite covers? JP: I will always love Bonnie Raitt’s version of “Angel from Montgomery.” Miranda Lambert does a killer version of “That’s the Way the World Goes Round.” She starts out a lot of her shows with that song. George Strait covered “I just Wanna Dance with You”— it’s pretty great, too! “Ya’ know that old trees just grow stronger, And old rivers grow wilder every day, But old people just grow lonesome Waiting for someone to say, Hello in there, ‘Hello.’ ” — John Prine, 1971 n You’re in the middle of a major

national and European summer tour. Do you still enjoy touring? JP: Yeah, I do. I can pretty much set my own schedule now. Touring with this new record means we will be busier than usual

album. What should we expect? JP: I had a great time making this record. I got to record at the old RCA Studio A (in Nashville). My producer, Dave Cobb, gave me the very best record I could imagine at this time. It didn’t feel like work at all. I hope the fans can hear in the music that we had a wonderful time making it. “That’s the way that the world goes round You’re up one day, the next you’re down It’s a half-an-inch of water and you think you’re gonna drown, That’s the way that the world goes round.” — John Prine, 1978 n Which musicians inspired you when you were starting out? JP: Hank Williams, the Carter Family, Bob Dylan, Elvis, the Beatles . . . n How about now?

JP: Jason Isbell, Kacey Musgraves, Sturgill Simpson and Margo Price are all great writers and performers. They’re good friends and I love to get to sing with them. n Do you have advice for young

songwriters just starting out? JP: Stay true to what you have inside you. Don’t write something because you think it’ll be a hit or what you think others might want to hear. And perform in front of an audience every chance you get — even if it’s only a handful of people. n When you’re back in Chicago,

do you ever make it out to Maywood? JP: Yeah, I do often take a drive out there. My old house where I grew up is still there, I think. I’d love to buy that old place but I don’t know who it belongs to now. The neighborhood has definitely changed but parts of it still look the same. n WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JUNE 2018 15

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Stops&Shops

Photo by Laurie Barton

Photos courtesy of Bella Cosa Jewelry

A very special occasion deserves a very special jeweler. Bella Cosa Jewelers, located at 7163 S. Rt. 83 in Willowbrook (630 455-1234), creates exceptional custom jewelry. The shop also carries pieces by popular designers like A. Jaffe, Verragio and Simon G. And it stocks the largest selection of Tacori bridal and fashion jewelry in Chicagoland. A signature item is the Mother’s Heart necklace, inlaid with birthstones and cherished by new moms and great grandmothers alike, all who want to keep their children close to their hearts. Two goldsmiths on staff assure same day, on-site repairs and engraving on glass, crystal, metal and the inside of rings. Creative, attentive staff are at hand to assist with appraisals and sale of vintage jewelry, as well as free cleaning and inspection for loose stones. Bella Cosa supports many charities and community groups, such as Jewelers for Children in Need, the Hinsdale Humane Society and Walk for Wellness. — Laurie Barton



Photo courtesy of Emerson Creek Shop & Tearoom

Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites

Return to simple days, simple ways.

Indulge in a fashion makeover

when you visit Jeans & a Cute Top at 161 S. 1st Street in St. Charles (630 444-0999). With pride in personal service, the staff will help you select the ideal jeans for your body type, add a trendy top and complete the head-to-toe styling with jewelry and accessories. Trending brands like Silver Jeans, Jag, Liverpool Jeans, and Kut from the Kloth are a denim lover’s dream. Jeans from NYDJ fashionably flatter fuller figures. Ruby Ribbon Shapewear helps customers a good fit, and complimentary hemming is available, too. Beyond denims, there are racks upon racks of tops, dresses, tunics, jackets and leggings, not to mention shoes and purses for everyone from teens on up. With additional locations in Wheaton and Downers Grove, Jeans & a Cute Top has the western suburbs covered. Fashion shows and Ladies Nights provide the cheese, wine and discounts you need for a fun shopping spree. — Laurie Barton

Located at 5126 Stephens Rd. in Oswego (630 554-7100), the Emerson Creek Shop & Tearoom beautifully blends old with new. A pathway lined with flowers leads to a 100-year-old farmhouse, open during the summer season from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Inside, the charming shop is bursting with hand-crafted gifts and accessories. A specialty is the namesake pottery, a farmhouseinspired and artisan-created line of cups, plates, jugs, bakeware and vases. There is a floor-to-ceiling wall of pillows, some printed with rustic images and others with messages like “Bless This Nest.”A vintage hutch is filled with candles, while other antique pieces elegantly display jewelry, scarves and purses. Items for home and garden décor harken back to farmhouse living. A tearoom serving gourmet lunches and desserts, a wide, sunny porch with rocking chairs, and a renovated barn for special events, make Emerson Creek a delightful summer destination. — 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 and boutiques, go to westsuburbanliving.net. 5.11 Tactical and outdoor apparel and equipment, plus head gear, backpacks and more. 2936 Finley Rd., Downers Grove. 630 376-6489

items, from furniture, rugs and art to patio and seasonal décor. 2100 S. Randall Rd., Geneva. 630 492-5492

At Home A home décor superstore with than 50,000

The Birth Boutique Personalized services and

resources for pregnancy, birth and infant care, including birthing and lactation consultations, doula care, upscale baby items and photography. 128 Harrison St., Oak Park. 312 590-1311

Board & Brush Creative Studio Opening June 15, a do-it-yourself woodworking, painting and sign-making studio — plus parties with wine, friends and creativity. 5151 Main St., Downers Grove. 815 206-9202

Escape the Room A team-play experience with escapes from a submarine, a nuclear power plant, a puppet theatre and other clue-filled rooms. 60 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 331 999-0887

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5/22/18 3:13 AM

TO THE

LOOK WESTERN SKY

By Joni Hirsch Blackman

Trying to Avoid that Sinking Feeling For the 25th year, a flotilla of cardboard crafts sets sail to celebrate summer fun on Lake Ellyn

cross Glen Ellyn — indeed, throughout the western suburbs — families and friends are toiling away in their garages, building cardboard boats they hope will be sturdy enough to keep them afloat. Some have done this each spring for years and now are helping the next generation design unsinkable crafts. Others are dipping their toes in for the first time. This year marks the 25th year of Glen Ellyn’s Cardboard Boat Regatta, the town’s annual kickoff event for the July Fourth weekend (this year on June 30). A challenge was posed last summer — build even bigger, taller, faster boats than ever before in honor of the event’s big anniversary. Invitations have been sent to every former participant. The race’s festive atmosphere, starting at 9 a.m., will feature even more giveaways, t-shirts and surprises than in past years. But the hold-your-breath moments will begin at noon, with the launching of three to four boats at a time. The key question? Will this cardboard-and-glue entrant stay afloat, or will it sink into Lake Ellyn? “Some groups get in the boat and as soon as the staff says, ‘Let’s go!’ . . . it flips over,” says Mary Defiglia, the park district’s assistant superintendent of special facilities and “default Regatta expert.” “It’s sad. You know they’ve worked so hard — but it does happen. There’s never been a Regatta where one hasn’t flipped at the starting line.” Sinkers most often happen to groups that don’t put as much work into their craft as those who are so dedicated that they collect their 10 to 20 sheets of 6-ft by 10-ft corrugated cardboard as early as January, though most get materials in April or May. Participants cut and glue the cardboard into

the shape of a boat, large and strong enough to carry between one and eight adults who will row, row, row the boats 200 yards. “If you want to make it around the lake, you need to build (the boat) ahead of time. Some build it right then and there that morning, then they go out into

Some first-time paddlers are surprised at how long the 200-yard course seems when navigating a cardboard vehicle. “We offer canoe rentals on Sunday mornings so people can test their rowing skills in something they know will float,” says Defiglia.

“

Some first-time paddlers are surprised at how long the 200-yard course seems when navigating a cardboard vehicle. Others figure the distance their yacht travels is beside the point.” the lake and sink,” says Defiglia with a laugh. “If you glue it right and paint it, it will float a while without sinking.” Seaworthy design is left to the entrants, who pay $50 to compete. Part of the fun is the engineering trial and error. “We don’t tell people how to build the boat, but we offer three free boat-building seminars each year where people can get good tips from people who have built successful boats. We don’t give all the tips away or everyone would have the same type of boat.” No chance of that. Regatta boats have ranged from simple pirate boats to a replica of the Wright Brothers’ plane. There was that “ginormous” Harley Davidson ridden by eight adults, and another boat made to look like a stick of butter. Yes, butter. George Washington crossing the Delaware is a popular staple as well. “We try not to put as much emphasis on the competition because it’s such a family-oriented thing,” says Defiglia. “It’s nothing you can practice for because you can’t build your boat and go out and try it.”

Others figure the distance their yacht travels is beside the point. “Some groups just want to look good — like the guys who dressed in bridal gowns, served wedding cake to spectators and called themselves the ‘always the bridesmaids, never the brides.’ Sometimes it’s all about the fun.” Many entrants are former spectators who, after a few summers of hanging with thousands of others on shore guessing which boat might win the “most spectacular sinking” or the “Lake Ellyn Queen, Pride of the Regatta” awards, are moved to take the plunge themselves. Participants are largely local, but a “fair amount” hail from Lombard, Wheaton, Bolingbrook, Chicago and various schools and businesses in the larger Chicagoland area. Speaking of hail . . . what happens if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate? Defiglia pauses. “We don’t talk much about bad weather,” she says. “In my 15 years we’ve never been rained out. Unless there’s lightning, we’ll go. I mean — the boats are going to get wet anyway!” n

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Local Authors

By Anne Knudsen

The Camper Book An ode to the open road by Chicago journalist Dave Hoekstra

ew experiences exude Americana more than the great summer road trip. And camper vans, trailers and RVs take things a step further — by bringing home along for the ride. Camper culture has sprung up among aging hippies, retro-loving “glampers,” simplicity-seeking millennials and even sports stars and celebrities. Aptly subtitled A Celebration of a Moveable American Dream, this colorful summertime book by award-winning journalist and radio host Dave Hoekstra is a salute to #vanlife, warmly exploring its history, subcultures and future. Hoekstra traveled nationwide in a spruced up van named Bluebird, immersing himself in camper life, meeting other

enthusiasts and drawing out quirky tales from every type of RV-loving nomad. Traveling and talking his way through campsites, RV parks and landmarks, he draws out revealing stories from people of all walks of life, such as those who choose camper living as a way to downsize material goods while upsizing spiritual pursuits. He also crosses paths with hard core RV enthusiasts, such as singer-songwriter John Prine (see Q&A on page 14) and Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon. Storytelling photos by Jon Sall pay loving homage to life on the open road, and an entertaining foreword by actor, musician and fellow RV enthusiast Jeff Daniels rounds out the book.

Dave Hoekstra is the host of WGN Radio’s “Nocturnal Journal with Dave Hoekstra.” A Chicago Sun-Times columnist from 1985 to 2014, he is the author of The Supper Club Book and the co-author of Disco Demolition. Born in Westchester, Hoekstra grew up in Naperville. After many years as a Chicago resident, he stumbled upon the home where he was born, bought it out of foreclosure and again makes his home in Westchester.

Beyond the Pale

House of Belonging

Racing from Chaos

by Clare O’Donohue

by Andrea Thome of Burr Ridge

by Aubrey Parr of Lisle

The MixTape of my Life

of La Grange

In a romance set in the rugged

In a follow up to Running from

by Robert K. Elder of Oak Park

In this spy caper set in Ireland,

landscape of Colorado’s Rocky

Disaster, mystery writer Aubrey

An award-winning journalist

college professors and married

Mountains, city girl and

Parr continues the chase for

and author turns his hand

couple Hollis and Finn Larsson

celebrated chef Laina Ming

the Kansas City kidnapper who

to a lighthearted topic in this

agree to go undercover to

runs away from the culinary

has a predilection for abducting

do-it-yourself book on creating

track down a priceless rare

spotlight — and a failed

young women when they are

a sound track that records the

manuscript in return for an

relationship. She decides to

out jogging — and is getting

important moments in life.

all-expenses-paid trip to the

open a concept restaurant on

better at covering his tracks.

Meant as a conversation starter

old country. Soon, the amateur

the banks of the Roaring Fork

Reporter Violet Moretti, obsessed

among friends and family, the

sleuths find themselves way out

River and crosses paths with

with details of the kidnapper’s

book asks questions that prompt

of their depth, as they dodge

rancher Logan Matthews. With

modus operandi, joins forces

memories of oft-forgotten tunes

and dive across the country,

elements of both mystery and

with Detective Dean Kelly.

that mark life’s turning points.

chasing the manuscript — with

intimacy, this is a classic love story

Together, they race to stop the

Dozens of quirky drawings by

an undisclosed enemy hot

that leads one-time strangers

killer — and find a deepening

Rob Marvin illustrate everything

on their heels.

into a sense of belonging.

friendship along the way.

from favorite bands to first loves.

20 JUNE 2018 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Asylum Lighthouse near Oshkosh

Wiouwash State Trail

Boating on the Fox River

Waterside in Neenah

EAA Airventure

Menominee Park in Oshkosh

A Weekend Getaway to Oshkosh, the Fox Cities and Green Bay Come for the air show then stay for the shopping, scenic vistas and summertime fun . . . and maybe even check out the training camp and stadium of the Bears archrivals

By Candice Wagener

ith summer is on the horizon, many of us start itching to get away. If you’re looking for a quick weekend trip, head due north into Wisconsin. A three-hour drive will take you to Oshkosh, on the western shore of Lake Winnebago. A little further up the road will lead you through the Fox Cities of Neenah, Menasha, Appleton and Kaukauna to Green Bay, the home of the NFL’s Green Bay Packers.

Oshkosh, by Gosh Legend has it the streets of Oshkosh were once paved with one-inch thick pine. It’s fitting, given what an important part the timber and logging industries played

in founding the city and in facilitating construction across the country. Lumber barons, entrepreneurs and merchants were some of the first residents to build homes and settle in the Oshkosh area. Many of those historic homes and buildings are preserved to this day. Quite likely you’re familiar with one of the biggest organized events in Oshkosh — the EAA Airventure, run by the Experimental Aircraft Association. The world’s largest gathering of aviation enthusiasts, attracting 500,000 people from 80 countries, this week long festival takes place July 23 – 29 this year and has a little something for everyone. For seven days from sunrise to well past sunset, the skies

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The Fox River at Appleton

EAA Museum

Fishing at Menominee Park in Oshkosh

Neenah Harbor at Night

Oshkosh Public Museum

Warbirds Area at EAA Airventure

Kayaking into Neenah

Fox City Mall in Grand Chute

Sailing on Lake Winnebago

over Oshkosh are filled with dazzling displays of aerobatics. Nearly 10,000 aircraft will fly into the area, including 3,000 show planes. Daily air shows feature everything from the latest innovations in aviation to historical aircraft and vintage and warbird showcases. There are night time shows on Wednesday and Saturday, too. Rare British aircraft, American Barnstormers and the B-29 Doc will all make appearances. Back down to earth, there are informative programs and hands-on workshops, diverse aircraft spanning all eras of flight, concerts to keep you rockin’ into the night, and much, much more. You can experience various airplanes up close when you stroll through the “aircraft neighborhoods” on-ground display. Add to that a Runway 5K, a veteran’s parade and the chance to welcome home the Old Glory Honor Flight.

Coming to Oshkosh at a different time of year? The EAA Museum is open daily and features an aviation adventure speaker series, virtual cockpit tours and aircraft on display, including a Spirit of St. Louis replica and a 1938 Bugatti Model 100 Racer. If you want an experience that’s a little more grounded, take a tour of the Paine Art Center and Gardens. This historic Tudor Revival-style country estate is surrounded by more than 500 trees and 20 gardens, which are designed as intimate, outdoor rooms showcasing native perennials, wildflowers and shrubs, as well as changing annuals and bulbs throughout the season. The estate itself is a confluence of over three centuries of English styles blended with the natural beauty and resources of Wisconsin. If you’ve got the kids in tow, you will want to check out the Family Discovery

Gallery, which highlights hands-on activities for all ages about art, architecture and gardens. This summer’s special exhibit will display over 60 treasured pieces from renowned glass artist Louis Comfort Tiffany. To get your legs moving a little more, head over to the Menominee Park Zoo and Little Oshkosh Playground. This 109-acre park, which stretches along the shore of Lake Winnebago, just about has it all — a zoo with upwards of 50 animals, a miniature train, amusement rides, a merry-go-round, plus access to Wisconsin’s largest lake within state borders. Go for a swim or rent a paddleboat and, if fishing is your thing, make sure to bring along a rod, as Lake Winnebago is known for walleye, muskie, bass and pike, to name just a few. Come back in winter if ice-fishing for sturgeon is your preference.

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Photo courtesy of TravelWisconsin.com

Photo courtesy of Greater Green Bay CVB

Oshkosh, the Fox Cities and Green Bay

Titletown 40-yard dash

Locally owned shops in downtown Oshkosh offer a nice selection of unique finds. AtomicKatz is the place for funky and vintage styles — from the 1920s to the 1980s — whether you’re looking for clothing, jewelry, furniture or accessories. Crescent Moon Antiques & Salvage is the perfect place if you dig vintage building materials or have a home project you’re looking to finish off with something special. When you’re ready to whet your whistle and grab a few snacks, make sure you stop at one of Oshkosh’s hole-in-the-wall bars. At Roy’s, you can order a Bloody Mary with a corndog or a twice-baked potato. Who doesn’t love a pint-sized brunch? At Pete’s Garage, you’ll get to experience made-from-scratch Old Fashioneds (a Wisconsin must) and get the quarter-pound Gas Cap burger for $2.50. When was the last time you paid so little for something so good? Fox Cities: Following the River North The Fox Cities are made up of the 19 communities along the Fox River as it flows from Lake Winnebago northward into Green Bay. And, they’re just a short drive north from Oshkosh. It’s paper that really boosted the economy in this area of the state. All the riveting questions you can ask about the paper industry will be answered at the Paper Discovery Center in Appleton, including the step-by-step

Green Bay Packers Training Camp

process from tree to paper. After paper, glass. The BergstromMahler Museum of Glass in Neenah offers free admission, a gift shop filled with beautiful glassware and displays of glass in all its various forms. Opened in 1959 to house the largest and most representative collection of glass paperweights in the world, it has expanded to include antique Germanic drinking vessels, Victorian art glass and contemporary studio glass. The museum makes for an intriguing afternoon out for those who love art and enjoy color. The area around the Fox Cities is a great place to hike, with many trails skirting around the shores of Lake Winnebago. At a vast 1,187 acres, High Cliff State Park features limestone cliffs sacred to Native Americans, effigy mounds, a lime kiln and quarry, a campground, plus 16 miles of trails. Late June will see the opening of the new Loop the Lake Trail, a 5K loop which connects Neenah and Menasha and crosses the Fox River twice, as well as the Little Lake Butte des Morts. Discover Fritse and Arrowhead parks, as well as covered bridges offering observation decks. The Parks Commission plans to add temporary art along the trail. Are you curious to see a real windmill in action? Head over to Little Chute and discover an authentic, fully-functioning 1850s windmill from the Netherlands. At over 100-feet tall, the structure was

designed and built in the Netherlands, disassembled, shipped to Little Chute and re-assembled where it stands today. Inside, you’ll find a small museum on Dutch settlement in the region, as well as a historical archive and genealogy workspace. The Fox Cities area prides itself on having “Wisconsin’s Best Shopping.” Indeed, the Fox City Mall in Grand Chute, with more than 180 stores, is a prime destination for any serious shopper and perfect for a weekend spree. From fashion outlets like Coldwater Creek, Chico’s and Hollister Co. to home decor retailer Pottery Barn and sporting goods store Scheels All Sports, there’s something for everyone. Specialty stores like Amaze & Grace, a vintage goods and arts market, won’t disappoint those looking for one-of-a-kind finds. Don’t limit yourself to the mall, though, as downtown shopping offers its own brand of fun. Red Door Mercantile in downtown Neenah, for example, is an urban emporium — a modern day general store bursting with gifts, home décor items, primitive antiques and unusual finds. While you’re there, don’t miss French Flea, where you can browse through vintage goods or sip a cup of coffee; or Art Affair, for handcrafted original art. Similarly, downtown Appleton has an eclectic collection of boutiques and galleries. Grand Chute is home to the

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Photos courtesy of Great Green Bay CVB

Photo courtesy of Greater Green Bay CVB

20,000-sq-ft Fox River Antique Mall and downtown Menasha has Urban Evolutions, a showroom of gifts and home furnishings and accessories lovingly restored or crafted from architectural salvage. Open every from June through October, the downtown Appleton Farm Market sets up on College Avenue. More than 150 vendors sell fresh produce and flowers, exotic meats and cheeses, breads and baked goods, specialty foods Kohler Waters Spa at Lodge Kohler in Green Bay and handcrafted items. Live music keeps you singing while you shop. You’re in dairyland, so why not visit When the weather turns colder, the a fifth-generation owned dairy, where you can treat yourself to some homemade, market moves indoors. Neenah also rBGH-free soft serve right on the farm? has a Saturday morning farmers market At Lamers Dairy, also in Appleton, during summer. For something completely different, you can see milk being bottled, in glass make your way to The Shinery Moonshine nonetheless, and peruse the general Company in Appleton, where you can store for milk cheese, and other Wisconsin try samples of nearly 50 different products. The award-winning chocolate moonshines, plus moonshine-infused milk is something special! products. Moonshine Pickles, anyone? Before you head north to Green Bay,

there’s a little bit of football you won’t want to miss in Appleton. In late June, as the Packers prepare to celebrate the team’s 100th anniversary, a traveling exhibit that tells the story of American pro football will open at the History Museum at the Castle. “Gridiron Glory” showcases rare footballs, Super Bowl trophies and memorabilia belonging to the Canton, Ohio-based Football Hall of Fame.” There will be a “Hometown Tribute” area that focuses on the Packers. A centerpiece is Don Hutson’s jersey. Green Bay: More than a Ball Game We know you’re audibly groaning, Bears fans, but you can have fun in Green Bay and maybe even admire the huge amount of hometown pride that the locals show to their hometown team. In August, the Green Bay Packers open up their training camp to the

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public, which is many people’s only chance to get a seat at Lambeau Field. Plus, the players ride their bikes into practice, which is a site to behold. Dedicated Packer fans and visitors alike can take a selfguided walking tour with either the Oneida Nations Walk of Legends or The Packers Heritage Trail. Head into the atrium at Lambeau Field to visit the Packers Hall of Fame. Green Bay Botanical Garden Just across the road from Lambeau Field is the newly with shuffleboard, horseshoes or bocce. developed Titletown Park. Open Come back in winter, and you’ll see year-round, the space is an enlarged the park transformed into an ice skating version of the ultimate backyard — rink and tubing hill. relaxing green spaces, a book and art In the Titletown area, you’re within carts, and a playground with play areas steps of several good dining options including 46 Below, a bistro serving quick for different ages and designed around bites and comfort food; Hinterland, a NFL Play 60 theme. You can toss a restaurant and brewery that is a a pigskin on the regulation football 20-year fixture with a multitude of field, or get your backyard-game on

Photo courtesy of Amenson Studio

Oshkosh, the Fox Cities and Green Bay menu options; and Taverne in the Sky, which offers panoramic views of Lambeau. Also in Titletown, just across the street from Lambeau Field, is Lodge Kohler, Green Bay’s first luxury hotel, opened a little less than a year ago. Fans of the American Club will find many of the same special touches here, including personalized guest service, full amenities, Kohler bathrooms and the opportunity to visit the elegant Kohler Waters Spa. Another relaxing spot worth a visit is the Green Bay Botanical Garden, which features 47 acres of display gardens and natural areas designed to capture the beauty of Northeast Wisconsin’s four distinct seasons. n A Western Springs native, Candice Wagener is a longtime resident of Madison who enjoys writing about her love for Wisconsin dining, entertainment and travel.

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MUSIC

THEATRE

COMEDY

ART

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

HOME & GARDEN

AND MUCH MORE

Judy Garland Tribute: Rain or Shine

Photo by Amy Boyle

OUT&ABOUT

June 10 Take a walk down memory lane as vocalist Angela Ingersoll sings classic favorites from Garlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concerts and on-screen performances at Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Call 630 896-6666

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Calendar of Events

THEATRE | Once: The Musical | Through Jun 3, Fri, 8 p.m., Sat, 3 & 8 p.m. and Sun, 1 & 5 p.m. Tony Award-winning musical based on the Oscar-winning movie set in Dublin, where a lonely guitar player struggling to connect with the world meets a fellow musician. Cost: $64/36. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Outside Mullingar | Through Jun 3, Fri – Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 3 p.m. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents John Patrick Shanley’s romantic comedy of introverted middle-aged misfits looking for love in rural Ireland. Cost: $20/14. Playhouse Theatre at McAninch Art Center, 426 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2220 | 4,000 Miles | Through Jun 10, Fri – Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 3 p.m. In this Pulitzer Prize finalist play, two outsiders find their way to each other in a complicated world. Cost: $28/22. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. 630 587 8521

South Pacific More timely than ever, this Rodgers & Hammerstein, Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning musical proves that even the backdrop of a tropical paradise cannot shelter its residents from the prejudices of World War II, at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace. Call 630 530-0111

| She Loves Me | Through Jun 16, Fri – Sat 8 p.m. and Sun, 3 p.m. In this 1936 classic musical comedy by Bock and Harnick, romantically involved pen pals meet in real life — without knowing it. Cost: $20. Village Players Theatre Guild, 2S720 S Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-8230

| Glengarry Glen Ross | Jun 8 – 17, Fri − Sat, 7:30 p.m. and Sun, 2 p.m. See the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Awardwinning dramatic comedy by American playwright David Mamet, in which four real estate salesmen take desperate actions to avoid losing their livelihoods. Cost:$17/15. GreenMan Theatre Troupe, First United Methodist Church, 232 S York Rd., Elmhurst. 630 464-2646 | Hairspray | Jun 8 – 24, Fri – Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 3 p.m. A Tony Award-winning musical set in teeny-bop Baltimore, when an unlikely dancer joins a popular TV show, upending social norms. Cost: $30/25. BrightSide Theatre, Meiley Swallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville. 630 447-8497

| South Pacific | Through Jun 17, Wed,1:30 p.m., Thur, 1:30 & 8 p.m., Fri, 8 p.m., Sat, 5 & 8:30 p.m. and Sun, 2 & 6 p.m. No matinée on Thur, Apr 5. More timely than ever, this Rodgers & Hammerstein, Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning musical proves that even the backdrop of a tropical paradise cannot shelter its residents from the prejudices of World War II. Cost:$62/47. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | Company | Through Jun 17, Thur – Sat, 8 p.m. and Sun, 3 p.m. Stephen Sondheim's game-changing musical is a sophisticated and honest look at modern relationships, featuring a brisk, energetic score. Cost: $23/20. Playhouse 111, 111 N Hale St., Wheaton. 630 260-1820 | Dead Man's Cell Phone | Through Jun 17, Fri − Sat, 8 p.m. and Sun, 2 p.m. In this dark comedy, a misplaced cell phone entangles a woman in a dead man's life, leading to questions of mortality, morality and redemption. Cost: $18/15. Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., 8th Floor, Elgin. 847 741-0532

| Shakespeare in Hollywood | Through Jun 10, Thur – Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Additional show on Sat, Jun 9 at 2:30 p.m. and no show on Sun, Jun 10 at 2:30 p.m. In this winner of the 2004 Helen Hayes Award for Best New Play, it's 1934, and Shakespeare's fairies, Oberon and Puck have magically materialized on a Hollywood set. Cost: $22. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380 | Marjorie Prime | Through Jun 16, Fri – Sat, 8 p.m. In this 2015 Pulitzer Prize Finalist, it’s the age of artificial intelligence, and 85-year-old Marjorie — a jumble of disparate, fading memories — has a handsome new companion, a robot programmed to feed the story of her life back to her. Cost: $17/15. The Riverfront Playhouse, 13 S Water St., Aurora. 630 897-9496

| The 25th Annual Putman Country Spelling Bee | Fri, Jun 8, 7:30 p.m. York Alumni, an ensemble of young professional actors and college theatre majors, presents the Tony Award-winning musical comedy. Carl Baker Auditorium, York High School, 355 W St. Charles Rd., Elmhurst. www.ticketpeak.com/yorkdrama

Through June 17

Photo courtesy of Paramount Theatre

Photo courtesy of Drury Lane Theatre

Out&about

June 9 Diana Kralll: Turn Up the Quiet Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist performs orignal music and jazz classics at Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Call 630 896-6666

| Play + a Pint: Russian Transport | Sun, Jun 10, 2 p.m. Professional actors from Oak Park Festival Theatre read aloud this comic family drama turned spy thriller by Ericka Sheffer. Cost: $12. Hamburger Mary’s Show Lounge, 155 S Oak Park Ave. Oak Park. 708 300-9396 | You Can't Take It with You | Jun 14 – Jul 22, Thur – Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 7 p.m. Laugh along with the mayhem in this madcap comedy from the 1930s, all about finding love and embracing life. Cost: $32/15. Oak Park Festival Theatre, Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Avenue Oak Park. 708 300-9396

COMEDY | First Fridays Improv | Fri, Jun 1, 8 p.m. GreenRoom Productions presents an evening of comic antics, live music and a cash bar. Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin Cost: $15/12 847 931-5900 | ISMO | Jun 7 – 10, Thur, 7:30 p.m., Fri, 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat, 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun, 7 p.m. Finnish comedian Ismo Leikola, who was an overnight sensation at LA's Laugh Factory, brings an evening of stand-up. Cost: $22. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Mall K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Fortune Feimster | Jun 9 – 10, Sat, 7 & 9:30 p.m. , Sun, 6 & 8:30 p.m. Female comedian, sketch and improv artist best known for her work on "Chelsea Lately." Cost: $25+ 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club, Parkway Bank Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Michael Palascak | Jun 14 – 16, Thur – Fri, 8 p.m. , Sat, 7:30 & 9:45 p.m. The Los Angeles comedian, popular on Sirius FM Radio and Pandora, performs bits he made famous on late night TV shows, including Letterman, Conan and "Last Comic Standing." Cost: $22 + 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 584-6300 | Filipe Exparza | Jun 15 – 17, Fri, 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat, 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun, 7 p.m. Enjoy a night of relatable, real-life comedy from a winner of "Last Comic Standing." Cost: $22. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Mall K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001

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| Diana Ross | Sat, Jun 2, 8:30 p.m. The queen of Motown performs in concert outdoors. Cost: $110/44. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | This End Up | Sun, Jun 3, 3 p.m. This popular, suburban six-piece band plays a mix of rock and pop music with a dash of country, with songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, Bruno Mars and others. Cost: $20/10. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 584-6300

June 15 Bee Gees Tribute: Stayin’ Alive Billed as the world’s No. 1 Bee Gees tribute artists, the band rocks the hits in an live-in-concert performance at Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Call 630 896-6666

Photo courtesy of Paramount Theatre

MUSIC

| Broadway Rat Pack | Fri, Jun 8, 7:30 p.m. A big band from Las Vegas lets today's audiences experience the heyday of Frank, Sammy and Dean, complete with audience interaction. Cost: $30. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 584-6300 | Blues & Roots on Water Street | Sat, Jun 9, 4:30 − 11 p.m. A one-day, two-stage music festival featuring, Alligator, The Cash Box Kings and other blues musicians. Cost: $25. Water Street Studios, 160 S Water St., Batavia. www.foxvalleymusicfoundation.com | Diana Krall: Turn Up the Quiet | Sat, Jun 9, 8 p.m. Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist famous and the only singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums charts performs original music and jazz classics. Cost: $139/59. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Judy Garland Tribute: Rain or Shine | Sun, Jun 10, 3 p.m. Take a walk down memory lane as vocalist Angela Ingersoll sings classic favorites from Garland's concerts

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and on-screen performances. Cost: $35. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Anita Baker | Sun, Jun 10, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Awardwinning singer-songwriter, best known for her "Rapture" album, brings a repertoire of soulful romantic ballads. Cost: $95/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100

| Music at Mayslake: Elmhurst College Jazz Band | Thur, Jun 14, 7:30 p.m. Doug Beach directs the band in an evening of jazz favorites. Cost: $15. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Guitarra Azul & Classical Blast | Fri, Jun 15, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bring a picnic and enjoy a double-bill outdoor concert. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-5161

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Photo courtesy of The Morton Arboreturm

Out&about

Through Jun 21 TROLL HUNT — ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Danish artist-in-residence Thomas Dambo at work as he constructs six colossal trolls from reclaimed wood, wood. at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle.The Troll Hunt begins on June 22. Call 630 719-2468

| Jackson Browne | Fri, Jun 15, 7:30 p.m. American folk rock artist who has sold more than 18 million albums performs popular classics and new music. Cost: $100/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100

| Rodney Atkins with Josh Miranda | Fri, Jun 29, 8 p.m. American country music artist best known for "Take a Road Back" provides an evening of original music and covers of popular hits. Cost: $35/20. Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 261-0392

| Bee Gees Tribute: Stayin' Alive | Fri, Jun 15, 8 p.m. Billed as the world’s No. 1 Bee Gees tribute artists, the band rocks a live-in-concert show. Cost: $40/30. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

| Wanna One World Tour | Fri, Jun 29, 8 p.m. Be part of the first solo concert of the popular K-pop band, playing it's #1 hit "Boomerang" and other new music, direct from Korea. Cost: $240/60. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

| The Temptations & The Four Tops | Fri, Jun 15, 8 p.m. Legendary Motown performers from two of the biggest bands of the 1960s play R&B classics, new songs and inspired covers of songs by John Mayer, Maxwell, Michael Jackson, and others. Cost: $79/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E Van Buren St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Led Zeppelin 2 & West Side Winders | Fri, Jun 22, 7 p.m. This live experience recreates the sights, sounds, and pure rock & roll euphoria of a prime Led Zeppelin concert, along with a set by an original, American roots-rock power trio . Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008 | B96 Pepsi Summer Bash | Sat, Jun 23, 6:30 p.m. With a line-up yet to be announced, the popular multi-artist annual concert returns to Chicago. Cost: $55/75. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra, | Sat, Jun 23, 7:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Bask outdoors in the sounds of sunny Spain as the symphony takes you to the Iberian peninsula through the music of Spanish, French, and Russian composers of the 19th century. Cost: $30/20. First Division Museum Military Park at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-5161 | Salt Creek Boys | Sun, Jun 24, 2 p.m. Enjoy an eclectic blend of Roots, Rock and Americana. .Graue Mill & Museum, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 920-9720 | Chicago & REO Speedwagon | Sun, Jun 24, 7:30 p.m. Two critically acclaimed rock bands who have sold 140 million records combined come together as part of a North American summer tour. Cost: $425/35. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

| Titans of Rock | Sat, Jun 30, 8 p.m. Billy D. Lindley performs as both Jon Bon Jovi and Steve Perry in a live rock concert. Cost: $35. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 584-6300 | Kool & The Gang and The Commodores | Mon, Jul 4, 7 p.m. Rock the night away with two major bands — jazz/boogie music followed by American funk/soul. Cost: $75/35. Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S Grove Ave., Elgin. 847 468-7000 | 12th Annual Rockin' for the Troops | Sat, Jul 14, 3:30 p.m. Come for a special live music show, featuring five popular acts — The Voices, 7th Heaven, Ayla Brown, Rockie Lynne and army combat veteran Ryan Weaver — to benefit active military, veterans and their families. Cost: $25. The music garden at Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva. 630 232-8811

DANCE | Concert Dance, Inc. | Thur – Fri, Jun 7 – 8, 7:30 p.m. Contemporary American dance troupe performs a diverse program of eight pieces. Cost: $10. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | The Chippendales: About Last Night | Thur – Fri, Jun 14 – 15, 8 p.m. Direct from Las Vegas,the all-male revue show performs striptease and other provocative routines. Cost: $100/50. Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S Grove Ave., Elgin. 847 468-7000

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ART | Annette Perone Leiber: Past and Present Inspirations | Through Jun 15, Wed – Sat, 1 – 4 p.m. Mixed-media artist with works in several national collections presents 50 pieces. Addison Center for the Arts Gallery, 213 N Lombard Rd., Addison. 630 458-4500 | Troll Hunt | Through Jun 21, a.m. Watch Danish artistin-residence Thomas Dambo at work as he constructs six colossal trolls from reclaimed wood. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Women Painting Men | Through Jun 23, Tue – Sat, 1 – 5 p.m. The works of six female painters showing portrayals of men that run from sexual to sympathetic to sentimental. Riverside Arts Center, 32 E Quincy St., Riverside. 708 442-6400 | Prairie Plein Air Show | Through Jun 30, Mon – Fri, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. A community art show, featuring pieces depicting scenes, locations and experiences within Schaumburg city limits. Herb Aigner Gallery, Al Larson Prairie Center, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | Morgan Craig | Through Jul 8, Tue − Fri, 10 a.m. − 9 p.m., Mon & Sat, 10 a.m. − 6 p.m., and Sun noon − 5 p.m. In this exhibit of paintings of architectural structures, the nationally regarded artist examines aspects of culture and identity. Schoenherr Gallery at North Central College, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | 1917: Catalyst for the Modern Era | Through Jul 30, Mon – Fri, 9:30 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat − Sun, noon − 4 p.m. An exhibit shedding light on the catastrophe of WWI and its century-long aftermath, with military artifacts. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 520-4941 | Cameos & Chakras | Through Sept 16, Tue – Sat, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun 1 – 5 p.m. A combined exhibit of Italian shell cameos with Christian themes and ancient Indian Chakra stones related to positive awareness. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1616 | Lockport Summer Art Series | Through Sept 30. View new works from ten artists who interpret Lockport's past and present, installed on historic sites. Various locations, plus The Gaylord Center, 200 W 8th St. and Illinois State Museum, 201 W 10th St., Lockport. 815 838-0549 | ONE: Annual Emerging Artist Exhibit 2018 | Jun 1 – Jul 28, Mon – Thur 11 a.m. − 7 p.m., Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. This is a juried exhibit of contemporary work by emerging artists in the region and across the country and is intended as a career stepping stone. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2321 | Nature Artists Guild of Morton Arboretum Exhibit | Jun 6 – Jul 13, Mon – Fri, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. With works by local and regional artists, immerse yourself in interpretations of the natural world. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Where We Are: Gardens and Prairies | Jun 8 – Jul 6. Mon − Fri, 1 - 5 p.m., Sat, 1 − 4 p.m. View the first of a summer series of exhibits exploring artists' relationships to the flora in urban, suburban or rural landscapes. Oak Park Art League, 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park. 708 386-9853 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JUNE 2018 31

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Photo courtesy of Cantigny Park

Out&about

KIDS | Seussical the Musical | Through Jun 9, Sat, 11:30 a.m. Theatre for Young Audiences brings to life the colorful world of Dr. Seuss, Cost:$17/13. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | Jim Gill's Nationwide Campaign for Play!| Through Jul 21. Singer/songwriter entertains young children with silly songs in Streamwood, Aurora, Glen Ellyn, St. Charles and Brookfield. Visit www.jimgill.com for schedule.

Annual art festival featuring a variety of artists, art-inspired activities and food trucks, plus entertainment from Classical Blast, Guitarra Wheaton, Call 630 668-5161 Azul and R-Gang at Cantigny Park in Wheaton.

| Mies’s McCormick House Revealed: New Views | Jun 10 – Aug 26, Tue – Thur & Sat − Sun, 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri, 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. This three-part exhibition provides context and visibility to the newly preserved McCormick House. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle: Seeing Red | Jun 10 – Aug 26, Tue – Thur & Sat − Sun, 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri, 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. The internationally acclaimed artist creates an architectural intervention inside the McCormick House, reflecting the vision of the original developers. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202

Festivals & Fairs See Summer Fun Guide on page 43 of this issue.

FAMILY & GENERAL | Kane Country Flea Market | Jun 2 − 3 & Jun 30 – Jul 1, Sat, noon − 5 p.m. and Sun, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. 1,000 dealers display and sell antiques and memorabilia. Cost: $5. 525 Randall Rd., St. Charles. 630-377-2252 | All Animal Expo | Sat, Jun 2 & Sun Jun 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Vendors bring reptiles, exotic mammals, hedgehogs and non-puppy mill dogs. Cost: $5. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. 630 917-0366

| Super Savvy Senior Expo | Wed, Jun 6, 9 a.m. − noon. Stop by to browse more than 40 local resources in areas such as healthcare, travel, entertainment and daily life, with a chance to win prizes. Eastside Community Center, 14 N. Van Buren St., Batavia. 630 879-5235 | 40th Annual Railroad Collectibles Show | Sun, Jun 10, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Multiple dealers and enthusiasts bring model trains for sale and for show. Cost: $6. 525 Randall Rd., St. Charles. 630-377-2252 | Art @ York Presents The Leisure Seeker | Wed, Jun 13, 1 & 7 p.m. Organist Dave Rhodes plays before a screening of the movie about a runaway couple who go on an unforgettable journey in the faithful old RV. York Theatre, 150 N York Rd., Elmhurst. 630 834-0675 | Wild Bill! An Evening with James Butler Hickok | Thur, Jun 14, 5:30 – 9 p.m. cost: $50. Partake in a themed buffet dinner while watching an a show about a legend of the wild west. The Gaylord Center, 200 W 8th St. and Illinois State Museum, 201 W 10th St., Lockport. 815 838-9400 | Family Night: Touch a Truck & 7th Heaven | Fri Jun 15, 5 – 8:30 p.m. Explore fire, police, military and construction vehicles, then listen to the band, followed by a family movie screening of "Jumanji." Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-5161 | DuPage Comic Con | Sat, Jun 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Many vendors, artists, guests and fans fill the fairgrounds to the max, with Cosplay contests, video game tournaments and family fun. Cost: $8. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. 630-936-9405

| Great Midwest Train Show | Sun, Jun 3, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. A model train show to buy, sell and trade, with operating train displays. Cost: $7/2. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. 630 290-1962

| Elmhurst Architecture Walking Tours | Sun, Jun 24, 2 p.m. Take a one-hour walking tour that explores modern architecture in Elmhurst, including the Henderson House by Frank Lloyd Wright and McCormick House by Mies Van Der Rohe. Registration required. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202

| Movie Mondays at Paramount | Mondays, Jun 4 & Jun 11, 7 p.m. Watch classic, family oriented movies, "Clue," (Jun 4) and "Anne of Green Gables" (Jun 11). Cost: $1. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

| Celebrating the Fourth | Sun, Jun 30, 1 – 8 p.m. Experience the holiday by play baseball using rules from 1887, making crafts and watching model hotair balloon launches. Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Rd., West Chicago. 630 876-5900

| Eldridge Adventure Day | Sat, Jun 10, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Join in a day out outdoor fun and nature discovery, with exotic animals, a fishing derby and carnival games. Eldridge Park, 300 W Butterfield Rd., Elmhurst. 630 993-8193 | Rockin' Jewelry for Kids | Sat, Jun 23, 1:30 p.m. This beginners class invites children ages 8 to 16 to make gemstone jewelry. Cost: $10. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1616 | Bug Bonanza | Sat, Jun 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn how bugs flutter, crawl, creep or fly. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N Washington St., Naperville. 630 637-8000

HISTORY | Snoopy and the Red Baron | Through Jun 17. Tue − Sun 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. From the Charles M. Schulz Museum, the cartoon aviator is showcased in Peanuts comic strips, alongside WWI ephemera. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457 | Death in DuPage | Through Jun 24, Mon − Fri, 9:30 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat − Sun, noon − 4 p.m. View mourning traditions from through the Civil War. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 510-4941

Through Sept 3 Amazing Arachnids Temporary exhibit with interactive components, showing the connections between humans and spiders at Brookfield Zoo. Call 708 688-8000

Photo courtesy of Build 4 Impact

June 16 - 17 Art In Bloom Fine Arts Festival

| Amazing Arachnids | Through Sept 3, Mon – Fri, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sat – Sun, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. A temporary exhibit about spiders, with interactive components. Cost: $5/3. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000

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Photo courtesy of Chicagoland Speedway

Out&about

Calendar of Events

June 28 - July 1 Chicagoland Speedway Stars & Stripes Weekend Capping an extended weekend of racing and family fun, the Chicaogland Speedway in Joliet will host the Xfinity Series Overton 300 on Saturday and then the NASCAR Cup Series Overton 400 on Sunday. Call 815 722- 5500

you watch an old-fashioned baseball game, and explore and Touch-A-Truck vehicles. Cost: $12. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Horse-Drawn Hay Rides | Thur, Jun 21, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Hear about farming on a 30-minute ride through the farmstead and fields. Cost: $5. Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Rd., West Chicago. 630-876-5900 | Sunrise Hayride | Sat, Jun 23, 4:30 – 6 a.m. After coffee and doughnuts in the barn, relax on a tractor-drawn hayride, see the sunrise over Rice Lake, and glimpse the horses in their paddocks as they greet the day. Registration required. Cost: $10. Danada Equestrian Center, 3S507 Naperville Rd., Wheaton. 630-668-6012. | Mayslake Hall Gardens and Grounds Tour | Sat, Jun 30, 9 – 10:30 a.m. Explore the gardens and learn about the carved treasures on the mansion’s facade. Registration required. Cost: $15. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566

| Views from Lisle | Through Nov 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. View a series of exhibits that illustrate the heritage and development of the city, including its past as a railroad center. The Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School St., Lisle. 630 964-3410

HOME & GARDEN | Love by Design House Tour Events | Jun 1, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. To benefit Love Your Neighbor's partnership with Habitat for Humanities and Bridge Communities, join a tour of two homes designed by Mark Allen Inspired. COST: $20. 903 Edgewater Dr., Naperville. 630-664-1478 | Wild Edibles | Sat, Jun 2, 10 a.m − noon. Take a walk with a naturalist and nibble on wild edible plants, then watch a cooking demonstration. Registration required. Cost: $34/29. Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | 3 French Hens Country Market | Sat, Jun 9, 8 a.m. − 2 p.m. Browse a French-style market filled with antiques, hand-crafted items, baked goods, flowers and many more home décor ideas. 123 W. Illinois Ave., Morris. www.3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com

FASHION & BRIDAL | Luxury Bridal Expo and Fashion Show | Sun, Jun 24, 11:30 – 4 p.m. See all the trends from wedding professionals and find vendors for décor, cakes, gowns, DJs, and more. Cost: $25/10. Chicago Marriott Hotel, 50 N Martingale Rd., Schaumburg. 847-428-3320, ext. 225

OUTDOORS | Tractor Drawn Wagon Rides | Wednesdays and Fridays, Jun 1 – 29, 1:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join a covered wagon ride to explore the farm and learn about the buildings. Cost: $5. St. James Farm Forest Preserve , 2S541 Winfield Rd, Warrenville. 630 580-7025 | Breed All About It | Sat, Jun 2, noon – 4 p.m. Learn all about horses and visit with mares and geldings in the barn and in the riding arena. Danada Equestrian Center, 3S507 Naperville Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-6012

FOOD & DRINK | 8th Annual Ottawa Two Rivers Wine & Jazz Fest | Jun 1 − 3, Fri, 5 − 10 p.m., Sat, noon − 10 p.m. and Sun, noon − 5 p.m. Celebrate Chicago jazz while sampling from wineries and breweries from across the state, plus an outdoor market. 101 W Main St., Ottawa. 815 434-2737 | Downtown Naperville Wine Walk | Sun, Jun 3, noon – 5 p.m. Sample wines and foods at shops and restaurants in historic Naperville, with proceeds to benefit Arranmore Arts. Various locations in downtown Naperville. www.arranmorearts.org

Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce

| In Other Words | Through Nov 4, Tue − Sat, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. Engage with history by exploring communications that are written, spoken, printed, recorded or captured in a picture, then try out typewriters, dial-phones and other antiquated equipment. Cost: $3/2. Geneva History Museum, 113 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-4951

| Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race | Sun, Jun 3, 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 to follow. Registration required. Cost: $95/45. Races start from Mount St. Mary Park in St. Charles and VFW Batavia, 645 S River St., Batavia. 630 859-8606 | Hooked on Fishing | Sun, Jun 3, 8 a.m. – noon. At this learn-to-fish event, children are supplied with gear and bait as they learn to cast, catch and release. Oakhurst Forest Preserve, 1680 5th Ave, Aurora, 630-762-2741 | Kayak Des Plaines | Thur, Jun 7, 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Kayak six miles of the Des Plaines River from Maywood Grove to Plank Road Meadow, with equipment and instruction provided. Registration required. Ohio St. & Des Plaines Ave., Maywood. 312 533-5751 | Canyon Tour | Sat, Jun 9 & 23, 10 a.m. Study the geology of Sagawau Canyon as you hike over rough terrain and wade a stream. Registration required. Sagawau Environmental Learning Center,12545 W 111th St., Lemont. 630 257-2045. | Just for Kids Fishing Derby | Sun, Jun 10, 1 a.m. – noon. Anglers 15 and under are invited to learn the basics, drop a line and fish for prizes. Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve, Butterfield Rd. & Winfield Rd., Warrenville.. 630 933-7248

Through Nov 11 Geneva French Market Enjoy farm-fresh produce, fresh flowers, baked goods, jewelry and more. Call 312 575-0286. For a complete list of Farmers Markets in the western suburbs, turn to page 54.

| Hometown Picnic | Sun, Jun 10, 1 – 4 p.m. Picnic, while

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| Uncork Illinois | Sat, Jun 16, 1 – 9 p.m. Sample 150 wines from more than 15 local wineries, as well as locally produced artisanal food and live entertainment at this fifth annual event. Ages 21 and up. Cost: $20/15. Marion St., Oak Park. www.downtownoakpark.net | Father's Day BBQ | Sun, Jun 17, noon. Bring dad for a fun barbecue featuring an interactive DJ, an all-youcan-eat summertime buffet and cash bar service. Reservations required. Cost: $44/34. The Pavilion, Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Sunset Yoga, Wine & Cheese | Thur, Jun 21, 6 – 9:30 p.m. Take a relaxing class with 360Fit, then share cheese and wine. Cost: $40/30. Arranmore Farm & Polo Club, 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com | Wine Down Wednesday Polo | Wed, Jun 27, 5 – 8 p.m. Enjoy an early evening tailgate party and on-thelawn picnic as you watch the game. Cost: $65/40. Arranmore Farm & Polo Club, 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com

SPORTS | Chicago Dogs | Jun 1 - 6, Jun 15 - 17, Jun 19 - 21, Jun 25 – 26 and Jun 29 - 30, 7 p.m. except Sun, 1 p.m. Be part of the inaugural season of Chicago's new league baseball team. Cost: $25/9. Impact Field, Balmoral Ave. & Pearl St., Rosemont. www.chicagodogs.com | Chicago Bandits | Fri − Sat, Jun 1− 2, 7:35 p.m.; Sun, Jun 3, 3:05 p.m.; Sat, Jun 16, 7:35 p.m.; Sun, Jun 17, 3:05 p.m. and Fri − Sat, Jun 29 − 30, 7:35 p.m. Professional women’s softball team defends its championship title against US and Canadian opponents. Cost: $17/7. The Ballpark, 27 Jennie Finch Way, Rosemont. 877 722-6348 | Chicago Sky | Fri, Jun 1, 8 p.m.; Sun, Jun 3, 1 p.m.; Sun, Jun 17, 5 p.m.; Fri, Jun 22, 8 p.m. and Wed. Jun 22, 11 a.m. Chicago's professional women’s basketball team plays other WNBA teams. Cost: $145/17. Wintrust Arena, 200 E Cermak, Chicago. 866 759-9622 | Kane County Cougars | Tue – Thur, Jun 5 – 7, 6:30 p.m.; Tue, Jun 12,6:30 p.m.; Wed, Jun 13, 11 a.m.; Thur – Sat, Jun 14 –16, 6:30 p.m; Sun, Jun 17, 1 p.m.; Thur – Sat, Jun 28 – 30, 6:30 p.m. Minor league baseball, with pre- and post-game entertainment. Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva. 630 232-8811 | Chicago Wildfire | Sat, Jun 9, 7 p.m. and Sun, Jun 17, 1 p.m. The Chicago area's pro team in Ultimate Disc (frisbee) plays in a nationwide league. Cost: $10. Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium at North Central College 455 S Brainard St., Naperville. www.chicago-wildfire.com | Vintage Base Ball | Sat, Jun 9 & Jun 30, 1 – 4 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of America’s pastime as it was played more than 100 years ago. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-5161 | Hitz Boxing & Round 3: Rosemont Rumble | Fri, Jun 8, 6 p.m. Come for a night of professional boxing, as Chicago’s Mike Lee he battles Jose Hernandez for a championship fight. Cost: $100/50. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

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WAITRESS

Photo by Joan Marcus

Out&about

| FIVB Volleyball Nations League | Jun 15 − 17, Fri, 5:30 & 7:30 p.m.; Sat, 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun, noon & 5:30 p.m. Experience world-class volleyball as teams from Poland, Iran and Serbia join the U.S. Men's National team. Cost: $275/150. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | 118th Women's Western Golf Amateur Co-Am | Sun, Jun 24, 1 p.m.; Sat, 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun, noon & 5:30 p.m. Play 18 holes in a tournament that is part of American golf history, then stay for dinner, gifts, prizes and more. Cost: $600 per foursome. Mistwood Golf Club, 1700 W Renwick Rd. , Romeoville. 815 306-4640

Wor th Going Downtown For Memphis Through Jun 16. A contemporary musical loosely based on Memphis disc jockey Dewey Phillips, one of the first white DJs to play black music in the 1950s. Porchlight Theatre, Ruth Page Center for the Arts 1016 N Dearborn St. 773 777-9884

Paul Simon Jun 6, 8 p.m. The iconic singer/songwriter performs as part of his Farewell Tour. Cost: $475/175. United Center, 1901 W Madison St. 312 455-4500

Macbeth Through Jun 24. Directed by Teller (Penn & Teller) and Aaron Posner, Shakespeare’s thriller of ghosts, witches and madness. Cost: $44/24. Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, 800 E Grand Ave. 312 595-5600

An Evening of Ohad Naharin Thurs – Sun, Jun 6 – 10. Israeli contemporary dancer and choreographer performs a re-imagined version of Minus 16. Cost: $110/25. Harris Theatre, 205 E Randolph St. 312 334-7777

Father Comes Home from the Wars (Parts 1, 2 & 3) Through Jun 24. Hero, a Texas slave, must decide whether to join his master in the Confederate army to win his freedom — or remain enslaved at the plantation. Cost: $25/10. Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St. 312 443-3800

Giordano Dance Sat, Jun 9, 7:30 p.m. Led by Nan Giordano, America's original jazz dance company closes its 55th season. Cost: $78/29. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy. 312 341-2300

Guards at the Taj Through Jul 22, In this comedic drama set in 1648 India, two hapless imperial guards test their faith in God, the empire and their friendship. Cost: $82/56. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N Halsted. 312 335-1650 Underwater Beauty Through Dec 31. A new exhibit showing life in our oceans, lakes and rivers. Cost: $39/29 Shedd Aquarium, Museum, Campus, Lake Shore Dr. 312 939-2438 Taylor Swift Fri – Sat, Jun 1 - 2, 7 p.m. America's leading country vocalist and singer-songwriter in concert. Cost: $200. Soldier Field, 1410 S Museum Campus Dr. 312 235-7000 David Byrne Fri – Sun, Jun 1 – 3. Backed by a 12-piece band, legendary songwriter performs his solo and Talking Heads hits. Cost: $250/30. Auditorium

Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy. 312 341-2300

Carol Burnett Tue – Wed, Jun 12 – 13, 8 p.m. The inimitable comedian brings unscripted, spontaneous dialogue filled with reflection and humor. Cost: $90/78. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St. 312 462-6300 The Cher Show Jun 12 – Jul 15. The pre-Broadway tryout of a new musical about the life of the pop icon. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 24 W Randolph St. 855 697-1698 Muti & Yo-Yo Ma Jun 14 – 16, 8 p.m. CSO director Riccardo Muti joins forces with the renowned cellist to play the works of 20th century Russian masters, including Shostakovich. Symphony Hall, 220 S Michigan Ave. 312 294-3000 Craft Brews at the Zoo Fri – Sat, Jun 15 –16, 6 p.m. Sample 120-plus specialty beers, with live entertainment. Cost: $79/20. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N Cannon Dr. 312 742-2000.

David Blaine Live Sat, Jun 16, 8 p.m. The world-class magician brings his deathdefying show back to Chicago. Cost: $126/40. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St. 312 462-6300 A Conversation with President Bill Clinton Thurs, Jun 21, 7:30 p.m. The former President sits down to talk about his new novel, The President is Missing. Cost: $95/55. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy. 312 341-2300 Colin Jost Thurs, Jun 21. 7:30 p.m. Host of Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update” hosts his own stand up comedy tour. Cost: $30. The Vic Theatre, 3145 N Sheffield. 773 472-0449 Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert Thur – Sun, Jun 27 – 30, 7:30 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra plays the John Williams score. Cost: $180/65. Symphony Hall, 220 S Michigan Ave. 312 294-3000 Peter Pan Jun 27– Aug 23. A 75-minute musical for young audiences, based on the story of the boy who wouldn't grow up. Cost: $34/22. Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, 800 E Grand Ave. 312 595-5600 Harry Styles Sat, Jun 30, 8 p.m. Former member of British boy band One Direction performs in concert with Kacey Musgraves. Cost: $1,900/29. United Center, 1901 W Madison St. 312 455-4500 Waitress Jul 3 – 22. This big-hearted musical follows a diner waitress as she grabs an opportunity to escape her small-town life. Cost: $103/45. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 51 W Randolph St. 800 775-2000

| Vintage Baseball Game | Fri, Jun 24, 2 p.m. Bring a picnic and watch an old-fashioned baseball game played by the wildly different rules of 1858. Elmhurst College Mall, 190 S Prospect Ave. 630 833-1457 | Chicagoland Speedway Stars & Stripes Weekend | Sat – Sun, Jun 30 – Jul 1. Chicago Speedway's season continues with a NASCAR stars-in-waiting battle, the Overton 300 on Sat, then the NASCAR Cup Overton 400 on Sun. Cost: $180/30. For schedule, visit www.chicagolandspeedway.com, Chicagoland Speedway, 500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet. 815 722- 5500

Fitness | 37th Annual Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals | Sat, Jun 2, 7:30 a.m. Join 2,500 runners in a 5K, 10K or children's half-mile run. Registration required. Cost: $40/15. Memorial Park, 208 W Union, Wheaton. 630 665-5534 | Run the Ridge 5K & 1K | Sat, Jun 2, 7:30 a.m. Runners, walkers and wheel chair rollers come together to benefit Charlie's Gift Center for Autism and Related Disorders. Registration required. Cost: $45/35. Country Line Square Shopping Center, 150 Burr Ridge Parkway, Burr Ridge. 630 850-4050 | Girls Run the World 5K & Party in the Park | Sat, Jun 2, 8 a.m. Run or walk in support of the empowerment and well-being of female youth. Phillips Park Aquatic Center, 828 Montgomery Rd., Aurora. 630 256-5288 | Pet Walk & 5K Run | Sun, Jun 3, 8 a.m. Hinsdale Humane Society's run and pet walk, with a festival hosted by celebrity emcee Judy Hsu. Registration required. Cost: $40/10. Katherine Legge Memorial Park, between E 57th & 60th Streets, Hinsdale. 630 323-5630 | 44th Annual Social Scramble Golf Classic | Fri, Jun 22, 11:30 a.m. Play 18 holes then enjoy lunch and a pig-roast dinner, with games, raffles and networking. Registration required. Cost: $150. Orchard Valley Golf Course, 2411 W Illinois Ave., Aurora. 630 879-7134

LITERATURE | Ruth Ware | Mon, Jun 4, 7 p.m. Popular British mystery novelist luanches her new book, The Death of Mrs. Westaway. Anderson’s Bookshop, 26 S La Grange Rd., La Grange. 708 582-6353

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| Robert Fieseler | Tues, Jun 5, 7 p.m. Recounting an important moment in the Gay Rights Movement, the award-winning author presents Tinderbox which explores the 1973 fire at the Upstairs Longue in New Orleans, where 32 people died. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville. 630 355-2665 | Alexander Fuller| Wed, Jun 6, 7 p.m. Meet the author and hear about her debut novel, Quiet Until the Thaw, a story of family connection set within the Native American world. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville. 630 355-2665 | Frances McNamara & Victoria Thompson | Thur, Jun 7, 7 p.m. Meet two American mystery writers and view their new books, McNamara's Death at the Selig Studios and Thompson's Murder on Union Square. Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore, 7419 Madison St., Forest Park. 708 771-7243 | Andrea Thome | Fri, Jun 8, 6:30 p.m. The romance writer and Burr Ridge resident launches her new book, House of Belonging. Barbara's Bookstore, 810 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge. 630 920-1500 | Amy Logan | Mon, Jun 11, 5 p.m. Teen and young adult novelist from Joliet launches the latest book in her A Girl with a Cape series, titled The Girl in the Mirror. Prairie Path Book, 302 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 765-7455

LECTURES | Opioid Crisis and DuPage County | Thur, Jun 14, 7 p.m. As part of the League of Women Voters Civic Awareness Series, Mila Tsagalis and Chris R. Hoff from the DuPage County Heroin Task Force discuss the crisis, followed by a Q&A over coffee and dessert. McCormick House Freedom Hall, Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8257

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| An Evening with the Artist: Thomas Dambo | Thur, Jun 14, 7:30 p.m. Hear the Danish creator of the Arboretum’s Troll Hunt exhibition describe his career making art with reclaimed materials. Cost: $20/16. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

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| Lectures at Mayslake: Ballet Russes | Fri, Jun 15, 10 a.m. Explore the journey of this dance company and its founder,Serge Diaghilev,whose work with choreographers Nijinsky and Balanchine, composers Ravel and Stravinsky, and artists Bakst and Picasso changed the art world. For ages 18 and up. Cost: $18. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Architecture of Mies Van Der Rohe | Sat, Jun 16, 1:30 p.m. Scott Mehaffey, Executive Director of Farnsworth House, and John McKinnon, Executive Director of Elmhurst Art Museum, compare and contrast the two structures built one year apart by the architect. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 Information is as accurate as possible, but details sometimes change or events are canceled. Call to verify all information. To list an event, submit two to three months in advance to: Out & About, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or wsl@westsuburbanliving.net.

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Photo by Dave Wilks courtesy of Geneva Concours d’Elegance

GENEVA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

From rare and vintage vehicles to muscle cars and more, classic automobiles are the prime attraction at summertime shows throughout the western suburbs

DOWNTOWN WHEATON VINTAGE RIDES CAR SHOW

Photos by Lynn Cordin, Image 17 Studio

By Jay Copp

t took a war in a distant land to separate Chuck Derer of Downers Grove from the object of his teenage infatuation. As a student at Hinsdale Central in the early 1960s, he knew what made his heart flutter. “I would sit in study hall and watch the cars drive down 55th Street,” he recalls, drolly adding, “It’s a boy thing.” So after he graduated, though still of modest means, Derer pounced on a 1961 yellow Ford convertible with a striking black top. Alas, his parents sold it after he was drafted and sent to Vietnam. 38 JUNE 2018 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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More and more suburbs are now holding car shows, an inexpensive night out for families that bond parents with their children and grandparents with their grandkids. Often the events also offer music and local food favorites. A first car is a rite of passage, and for families today attending a hometown car show is becoming a tradition all its own. Each show has its own vibe, its own ways of doing things, but there is something achingly iconic about all of them. Summer

or Potsie, John Wayne or Jimmy Stewart, or Mickey Mantle or Jackie Robinson, you’d just shrug your shoulders and say, “Oh, yeah, of course.” Vehicular Summers Car shows occur locally nearly every day of the week during the warmer months. Most are sponsored by towns, but drive-in restaurants and other businesses also host regular gatherings of classic cars. Trophies are sometimes

springs to life — the mobs of people in shorts, T-shirts and sandals, the omnipresent cotton candy, hot dogs and Cokes, the radio hits of the 60s and 70s played at the accompanying concerts, the carefree, relaxed, let-it-all-hang-out air of contentment among attendees. The shows tend to be drenched in red, white and blue. The cars are primarily American. They hail from an era of U.S. prosperity, when America was more dominant, less conflicted. People can’t articulate it, but deep down they know they are enacting an American ritual. It’s much more than a narrow slice of America — it’s a knowing, full-blown celebration of Americana. It’s the freedom of the open road, the golden opportunities promised by a gallon of gas, the exalted sense of belonging to a nation that hums like the engine of a Cadillac. If you ever happen to spot someone in line at a car show buying a Coke who looks exactly like Richie Cunningham

awarded to the car judged to be the best, but cash prizes are rare. Owning a classic car is an expensive hobby, not a way to make money. Typically, certain types of cars are featured at shows from one week to the next — from Model Ts and Model As to Pontiac GTOs and Mustangs, from Thunderbirds to Corvettes, and from Chevys to Fords and Chryslers. Generally, cars must be 25 years or older to be considered “classic.” If you’re looking to eyeball a certain car from a certain year and willing to travel to a particular show on a particular date, you’re probably in luck. Google brings the world to one’s fingertips. Car shows put a historical showroom of autos at your footsteps. For some shows, the cars are the main attraction while for others, at least on certain nights, a concert brings in droves. Summer’s here, and the time is right for dancing in the streets. The closing day

Photos courtesy of Wyler Studios

Photo by Dave Wilks courtesy of Geneva Concours d’Elegance

One of the ways he coped with the stresses and boredom of war was to daydream about the Pontiac convertible he’d purchase once he returned to the States. The savvy outreach of the car behemoths in Detroit extended to foxholes halfway around the world. “I was in the jungle looking at new car brochures,” he chuckles. He even had money taken out of his soldier’s pay as a down payment for a car. Today, Derer, 71, has put a lot of

Plainfield Cruise Nights

things in his rear view mirror. But the toll of time has not dimmed his love for the cars of yesterday. This summer, as he has for decades, Derer is showing off his latest classic car at the Summer Nights Classic Car Show in downtown Downers Grove. He is one of 230 or so classic car devotees proudly displaying their much loved autos every Friday before huge crowds. The event became so popular — and participants began showing up too early, clogging up space — that new rules were instituted last year. “The sidewalks are so crowded you can barely walk,” says Linda Kunze of Downers Grove Downtown Management, which coordinates the extravaganza. Not everyone has the time, money or inclination to purchase and maintain a classic car. But a whole lot of folks — men and women alike — enjoy ogling the cars. It’s not nice to stare, unless it’s at a classic car driven to a show precisely to be admired.

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DOWNERS GROVE SUMMER NIGHTS CLASSIC CAR SHOW

of Cruise Night in Lombard on Aug. 25 features American English, the popular Beatles tribute band. The 60s will come alive in conjunction with the car show at the Hillside Summer Nights: American English on July 24, the New Colony Six on Aug. 6 and The Buckinghams on Aug. 28. Held downtown on Friday nights, the robust car show in Wheaton has run for 21 years. Normally accommodating 100 cars, the show is displaying 50 cars this year because of construction. Musical acts featuring songs by the likes of Billy Joel, Elton John and Kenny Rogers provide another reason to amble downtown. Ambling, as well as seeing old friends and soaking in the vibes of a summer night, is reason enough to go to Vintage Rides. “I’m not so much a classic car guy. But this gets people out on a Friday night,” says Jim Matheson, 69, a CPA and bank director who is glad to see packs of grandchildren with grandparents. “This is better than them playing video games.” Yet even a guy who is not a classic car guy gets a little nostalgic when he spies an

older Corvair convertible, which he drove when he was younger. “I run in to one of those once in a while. It’s nice to see,” admits Matheson. Cars are meant to be driven. But classic cars are so stylish that they command one’s attention while parked. Paula Barrington, executive director of the Downtown Wheaton Association, which organizes the show, raves, “Lots of older cars were a piece of sculpture — the way they were trimmed, the polish of the chrome. The steering wheel was a piece of art. The interior was beautifully done — the plush carpeting. There was a lot of attention to detail. “The technology of the new cars is where today’s flash is at,” adds Barrington. “They don’t have the attention to detail of the cars of the 30s, 40s and 50s.” Those much older cars are still displayed, but increasing in numbers are the muscle cars of the 60s and 70s. You see more Chargers, Camaros and Firebirds as men now in their 60s and 70s have retrieved them. “They collect the cars they could not afford when they

were in their teens or early 20s,” says Barrington. “They want to talk about their cars, want to show them off. They love reminiscing with people.” The feelings of attachment to the four-wheeled transportation machines are mutual. “You hear a lot of comments like, ‘My dad had a car like that,’” says Barrington. “In American culture cars play a big role. They’re part of our lifestyle and memories. They occupy part of our imagination. They really do get an emotional response from people.” Barrington drives a Mercedes station wagon. But she once owned a ‘62 Cadillac convertible. “It had big, rounded fenders. It was turquoise, almost Tiffanyblue. When I would drive it down the streets, it would turn heads. I called it my Hollywood car,” she says. “Once in the city I saw the blue lights flashing behind me. ‘Boy, what did I do wrong?’ So I pulled over. The cop said he just wanted to take a good look at my car.” Mere age sometimes can transform a car once dismissed as ordinary to one worthy of attention. “It’s hard to imagine, but the cars we drive today may get the same response from us 30 or 40 years from now. ‘Yeah, I used to drive that minivan when I had kids,’” says Barrington wryly. Garage-Kept — For 42 Years A car featured for years at the Wheaton car show is an elongated, boat-like, midnight-blue 1975 Oldsmobile Delta 88 convertible. Owner Ken Klein stores it inside in a spacious work area of a well-kept office park in Wheaton. Klein bought it new from the dealer, put on 24,000 miles in its first year and, basically, except for shows, parades and special occasions, parks it inside. For Klein, it’s a car too special to use as an ordinary car. One week after Klein took delivery of the car, he met his wife, Alicia. But for their first date he did not pick her up in the Oldsmobile — they traveled separately to the Oak Brook Saddle Club. So the mystique of the car for him is not exactly

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enfolded into his life. There’s just something about older cars that are endearing in a way nothing else is. “I drive my family crazy,” says Klein. “I can tell a ’57 Chevy from a ’56 Chevy. It might be different sheet metal, different tail lights. Today everything looks like everything else. Cars are made so much better. But they all look the same.” His Oldsmobile is a looker, but it’s not pristine. “I haven’t washed it in eight or nine years. I dust it off,” he says. “Some guys (with classic cars) have so much money they don’t know what to do with it. Or they’re gearheads. I don’t fit those categories. I’m just a regular Joe.” For someone who has never been to one, a car show may seem exotic and out-there, drawing people overly fascinated by older vehicles. But classic cars and the shows draw not only rare cars in mint condition owned by singleminded men, but also lots of people like Klein who simply like cars. Classic cars are not a subculture, a strata of society distinctly apart from everyone else, but instead a popular branch of our culture. “Some guys dust even their engines. They turn the bolts in the engine the same way so the slots line up. Their cars are shining — spotless. I’m not that guy,” says Klein, who once sold direct mail advertising and then ran a sign business. “My son’s friends go gaga over the car,” he adds. It’s the kind of car that summons memories as well as admiration. “The comment I get most often (at the show) is, ‘My Uncle Bob used to have a car like that.’” End of the Road? Last Chance Auto Repair in Plainfield helps owners restore their cars. Restoration is not for the faint of heart — or those of limited means. Restoration typically starts at $30,000. The business has had its share of customers who struggle to pay for a complete restoration. They typically come to the business after they’ve hit a wall and can’t find a part or don’t know how to proceed. “We don’t do ground-up restorations. We’re fixing other people’s

issues,” says Corry Leracey of Last Chance. It’s OK to love older cars and dream about having one. But restoration is often problematic. “Unless you absolutely love the car you should by no means undertake restoring the car. Everything about it (restoration]) is an act of love,” says Leracey.

So, no, classic car owners, with some exceptions, are not in it for the money. The shows are not occasions for selling (though it does happen). Commerce is not at the root of the car shows. You can’t really put a dollar amount on what makes a heart tick faster. “They made cars so much stronger and better back

Summer Car Show Calendar Tuesdays

Saturdays

Batavia | Fast Eddie’s Lunchtime Cruise-In |

Lombard | Cruise Nights | June 9 – Aug 25,

11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 500 N. Raddant Rd.

6 - 10 p.m., Downtown Lombard.

Berwyn | Cruise Nights | June 5 & 19,

Morris | Cruise Nights | Second

July 17, Aug. 7 & 21, 6 – 9 p.m. Windsor Ave.

Saturday of month, June 9 – Oct. 13,

and Grove Ave.

6 – 9 p.m., Downtown Morris

Hillside | Cruise Nights | July 24 – Aug. 28,

North Aurora | A&W Restaurant |

begins 5 p.m. (part of Summer Nights).

First Saturday of month through Sept 1,

Hillside Commons, 4950 Washington St.

6– 9 p.m. 113 S. Lincolnway St.

Plainfield | Cruise Nights | June 5 to Aug, 21, 5 – 9 p.m. Downtown Plainfield. West Chicago | Cruise Night at Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli | Through Sept 26,

Sundays Elgin | Double K Cruise Night | Through Sept 30, 5 – 9 p.m. Rookies, 2486 Bushwood Dr.

5 – 9 p.m. North Ave. at Rt. 59. One-time Shows Wednesdays

Glen Ellyn | Vintage Auto Fest of the

Bloomingdale | Daily Herald Cruise Nights |

Glen Ellyn Historical Society | Sat, June 2,

Third Wednesday of month, June 20 – Sept

10 a.m. – 3 p.m., 800 N. Main St.

19, 5-8 p.m. Stratford Square Mall.

Lockport | Tuffy Car Show | Sat, June 16,

Carol Stream | Cruise Night at Augustino’s

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (part of Old Canal Days).

Rock and Roll Deli | Through Sept 27,

Downtown Lockport.

5 – 9 p.m. Schmale Rd. at E. St. Charles Rd.

Naperville | Downtown Naperville

Naperville | Braconi’s Restaurant |

Classic Car Show | Sat, June 16, 9 a.m.

Through Sept 14, 5 – 9 p.m. 796 Royal

– noon. Jackson Ave. at the Riverwalk.

Saint George Dr.

Oak Brook | Father’s Day Classic Car Show | Sun, June 17, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Oakbrook

Thursdays Barrington | Cruise Night | June 7– Aug 30, 6:30 - 9 p.m. Downtown Barrington. Geneva | Classic Car Show | July 5 - Aug 30, 6 – 8 p.m. Kane County Courthouse parking lot, 100 S. Third St.

Center, 22nd St. and Rt. 83 South Barrington | Supercar Saturday | July 7 & Sept 1, 4 – 9 p.m. (more shows to be announced.) The Arboretum, 100 W. Higgins Rd. Aurora | Historic LaSalle Street Auto Show |

Fridays

Sun, Aug. 19, noon onwards. Downtown.

Downers Grove | Summer Nights Classic

Geneva | Concours d’Elegance | Sun,

Car Show | May 25 – Aug 31, 6– 9 p.m.

Aug 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Third St., Geneva.

Downtown Downers Grove.

West Dundee | Cool Car Show |

Wheaton | Vintage Rides | May 18 – Aug 31,

Fri – Sat, Sept 15 – 16, 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

6 – 9 p.m. Downtown Wheaton.

(part of Heritage Fest). South Second St.

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then,” says Leracey. “With older cars people put their souls into the design and engineering.” The great danger, like an oil slick up ahead on the road, is that the cars are not the only ones aging. The generations that worshipped cars are fading. Who will tenderly preserve our aging cars? Where are today’s grease monkeys, crouched under the hood in their father’s driveway? Perhaps old cars one day soon will be relics, parked forlornly at museums, not lovingly in garages. Car shows themselves eventually could become part of the past. The fixation today among young people is not with horse power or what’s under the hood or has shiny curves, big bumpers and mounds of chrome. The world has gone miniature, hand-held and inward. “Kids today are all about the ring tones of their phones or the processing speed of their computers. They tinker with their computers,” observes Klein sadly. The Granddaddy of Them All No, money is not being handed out. But mobs of people crowd the sidewalks of downtown Downers Grove on Friday nights in the summer. The car show is to Downers Grove as Mardi Gras is to New Orleans and the Kentucky Derby is to Louisville. OK, that’s an exaggeration, of course, but the show does consistently draw thousands. It also provides the town with cachet, a trademark event to set it apart and earn accolades. “Car magazines have rated it in their top 10 (car shows),” says Bob Markert, the show’s chairman. “When Forbes listed it (Downers Grove) as one of the top 10 friendliest places to live, they really liked the car show.” Merchants like it, too. “Restaurants absolutely love it,” says Kunze. They do a brisk business selling portions of food such as pizza slices. The kernels are flying at Wells Street Popcorn, which also plops

displaying the ravages of their age. “You don’t see a whole lot of 100-point cars (cars that meet an extensive checklist),” says Derer, who posts videos of classic cars driving on roads on his YouTube channel. “You see some rusted-out beaters.” The Downers Grove show is the granddaddy of local car shows, the first of its kind locally. It was begun by Duane Baker, former owner of the closed Herbert’s Men’s Shop, when he headed the Downtown Retail Council. A realtor-friend had taken a trip to Somerville, New Jersey, and seen its successful cruise night. “We ought to try that here,” he advised Baker. LOCKPORT OLD Canal But town officials nixed the idea. days TUFFY CAR SHOW “They felt cars would break the law, burn rubber, drive erratically,” recalls Baker. Baker proposed that the cars not cruise but instead park in one spot. Fine, said officials, let’s go ahead and hit the gas pedal on this. The first show had seven cars, six of them belonging to the realtor and his pals. On the show’s tenth anniversary, Baker added bands to broaden the show’s appeal, a feature that indeed propelled the event into someone would probably call the police.” a higher gear. Derer shows a rare ’91 two-door Cadillac roadster, made in Italy. For 25 Cars from bygone days are hypnotic, years, until he recently sold it, he displayed stirring up the past. “I think they bring a 1948 yellow Willys Overland Jeepster. back memories of your first date, prom “I can remember when I first saw it. It night or when your child was born. was 1990 at nine in the morning. It was Maybe you had that kind of car when coming down Saratoga turning left you met your wife,” says Baker. The eastbound on Ogden (in Downers show brings the community together like Grove). The sun hit it just right. I said, no other event. “You can enjoy a night ‘There’s absolutely nothing wrong with out near your home. You experience that car.’” So Derer joined a Jeepster club a downtown that’s more of a hometown and eventually located one for sale. than Chicago,” he says. Derer’s Jeepster was eye-catching but A definite bonus of the Downers far from perfect. “It was a 20-footer — it Grove show is that cruising is an looked pretty good from 20 feet,” he says. unofficial part of it. Some car owners That’s part of the democratic, here-comessubtly detour around the original everybody feel of the Downers Grove prohibition of driving the streets. “Cars show. There may be multimillion dollar are always passing by. There is lots of Italian sports cars alongside perfectly showing off, driving around,” says Derer restored cars, and yet Tom and Harry can with a smile. “Some people don’t really also show up with their older cars, defiantly want to park.” n its cotton candy machine and ice cream fridge on the sidewalk. “It’s our busiest night of the week. The lines are usually pretty long,” says aptly named Catherine Smiles of Wells Street Popcorn. The show is a happening, a place to see and be seen. “If you grew up in the city you know people sat on the front stoop watching the world go by. The car show is like that. You pull up a lawn chair and talk to people,” says Derer. “It’s a social gathering. You usually don’t get that in the suburbs. The houses are too far apart. If you had people looking too interested in what’s going on at a house

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NAPERVILLE CONCERTS IN YOUR PARK

Downers Grove Summer Concert Series

Phillips Park Zoo in AURORA

CYCLING IN ST. CHARLES

Best festivals & fairs, concerts, special events, family fun and much more!

Festivals & fairs | Barrington Cruise Nights | Thursdays through Aug 30, 6 – 9 p.m. Weekly car show along with food and ice cream vendors, entertainment and prizes. Harris Bank Parking lot, Cook St. and Station St. in downtown Barrington. 847304-3400.

| Summer Nights Classic Car Show | Fridays through Aug 31, 6 − 9 p.m. Live entertainment and food from local vendors accompany an array of classic cars that line the downtown streets, with pre-1985 models parked on Curtiss St. Along Main St. between Maple and Franklin. Downers Grove. 630 725-0991

| 21st Annual Vintage Rides | Fridays through Aug 31, 6 − 9 p.m. Featuring different makes and models of classic cars each week, this summer car show also offers live entertainment, awards, food from local vendors and more. Downtown Wheaton. 630 260-2000 | Flaming Fridays | Fridays through Sep 21, 5 – 8 p.m. A new show open to classic and special interest cars, with food offers and prizes. Kabob’s, 551 S. Eighth St. (Route 3l) in West Dundee. 847 551-8888. | Double K Cruise Nights | Sundays through Sept 30, 5 – 9 p.m. Take a chance to view cool and antique cars and bikes up close and talk with

their owners. Rookies, 2486 Bushwood Dr., Elgin. 630 393- 6665 | Taste of Wheaton | May 31 – Jun 3, Thur, 3 – 9:30 p.m., Fri ,3 – 11 p.m., Sat, 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sun noon – 6 p.m. Arts and crafts show, carnival rides, children’s games, live entertainment, beer & wine garden, business expo and food vendors. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. 630 690-4880 | Rose Festival | May 31 – Jun 3, Thur 6 – 11 p.m., Fri, 6 p.m. – midnight, Sat, noon – midnight and Sun, noon – 10 p.m. Carnival, entertainment, parade, food and beer garden. Cost: $25/20 for rides. Roselle Metra Station parking lot, Irving Park Rd. and Maple Ave., Roselle. 630 980-2000

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Photo courtesy of Cantigny

SUMMER FUN GUIDE | 35th Annual Island Rendezvous | Sat, Jun 9, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. Historical reenactments from the 18th century, as the fur trade blends with Native American culture, with arts and crafts, storytelling, live music, food vendors and more. Isle á la Câche Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd., Romeoville. 815 727-8700 | Downtown Aurora Magic Festival | Sat, Jun 9, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Bring your wands for a celebration of wizards and magic, with classes, games, music, food vendors and a costume contest. Cost: $15/10. Various locations in downtown Aurora. www.downtownauroramagic.org | Hello Summer | Sat, Jun 9, 11 a.m., noon – 10 p.m. Celebrate music, family and the arts, with live music from Trio Elias and Girl & The Gang, a petting zoo, a caricature artist, face painting, a cruise night and food trucks, followed by fireworks. The Shell, 184 E North Ave., West Chicago. 630 231-9474

Afternoon Concerts at Cantigny Park Through Sept 4 | La Grange Carnival & PET PARADE | Jun 1 – 3, Fri, 5 – 10 p.m., Sat, noon – 10 p.m. and Sun, noon – 9 p.m. Rides, games, music, beer garden and food, plus annual La Grange Pet Parade on Jun 2. Downtown La Grange. 708 582-6510 | ottawa 2 rivers wine fest | Jun 1 − 3, Fri, 5 − 10 p.m., Sat, noon − 10 p.m. and Sun, noon − 5 p.m. Wines from 20 local wineries, craft beer, food vendors, live jazz and an outdoor arts & crafts market. Cost: $30/20. 101 W Main St., Ottawa. 815 434-2737 www.ottawa2riverswinefest.com | First Fridays in Downtown Aurora | Fridays, Jun 1, Jul 6 & Aug 3, 5 – 11 p.m. Join in festivities all over downtown, with live music, art exhibits, food vendors and children’s activities. Various locations in downtown Aurora. 630 674-2099 | 5th Annual GLEN ELLYN VINTAGE AUTO FEST | Sat Jun 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. View a show of vintage automobiles, with talks on auto history, a bake sale and mini-tours to Stacy’s Tavern Museum. Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867 | WELLBATAVIA | Sat, Jun 2, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Farmer’s market, Race to the Market 5K, yoga, fitness offerings and more that focus on healthy lifestyle choices, physical fitness and wellness of the mind, body and soul. Riverwalk, Peg Bond Center and City Hall, downtown Batavia. 815 793-7550 | Fine Line Arts Festival | Sat, Jun 2, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Watch art demonstrations, shop for art, then listen to live music. Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-8443 | 17TH Annual Fine Arts Festival | Sat − Sun, Jun 2 − 3, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. The lawn of the Mill is a perfect backdrop for more than 40 of the area’s most talented artists who will exhibit and sell a variety of art for the home and garden. Graue Mill & Musuem, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 920-9720

| BLUES & ROOTS ON WATER STREET Festival | Sat, Jun 9, 6 p.m. – midnight. Be a part of this oneday, two-stage, five-act, indoor, limited-ticket intimate festival, featuring The Cash Box Kings, Dave Specter and others. Cost: $30/25. 160 S Water St., Batavia. 630 761-9977

| Frontier Park Kite Flying Festival | Sun, Jun 3, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Gigantic kites, hands-on activities, demonstrations, stunts, live music, children’s games, giveaways and food trucks. Frontier Park, 3380 Cedar Glade Dr., Naperville. 630 848-5000

| Lombard Cruise Nights | Saturdays, Jun 9 – Aug 25, 6 – 10 p.m. View hot cars while listening to live music from local bands and enjoying food from local vendors. St. Charles Rd. and Main St. in downtown Lombard. 630 620-5700

| A Day In Our Village | Sun, Jun 3, 11 a.m. Community festival featuring games, 100-plus activity and information booths, food and music. Scoville Park, Lake St. and Oak Park Ave., Oak Park. 708 358-5407

| Morris Cruise Nights | Second Saturday of month, Jun 9 – Oct. 13, 6 – 9 p.m. Get your motor running, grab a bite, then view cool cars close up and chat to their owners. Various locations in downtown Morris.www.morriscruisenight.com

| Berwyn Cruise Nights | Tuedays, Jun 5 & 19, Jul 17, Aug. 7 & 21, 6 – 9 p.m. Take to the streets of the Depot District for a new car show and a variety of nightlife spots to quench your cravings for anything from ice cream to martinis. Windsor Ave and Grove Ave. 708 788-8100

| Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival | Jun 9 – 10, Sat – Sun, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Art show with 130 juried artists, children’s activities, music and food. Burlington Park, 30 E Chicago Ave., Hinsdale. 630 323-3952

| Plainfield Cruise Nights | Jun 5 – Aug, 21, 5 – 9 p.m. Cool cars pair with outdoor music, with food from local vendors. Various locations in downtown Plainfield. 815 436-4431 | Franklin Park Fest | Jun 7 – 10, Thur – Fri, 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m., Sat, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sun, noon – 5 p.m. Carnival, entertainment from 7th Heaven, One of the Boyzz and others, food, beer & wine garden, plus train viewing at Saturday’s Railroad Day. Franklin Ave. and Calwagner St., Franklin Park. 847 671-8236 | Chicago Blues Festival | Jun 8 – 10, Fri – Sun 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Performances headlined by Mavis Staples and including blues musicians Guy King, Mississippi Heat and others. Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St., Chicago. www.cityofchicago.org | Ribfest Chicago | Jun 8 – 10, Fri 5 – 10 p.m. and Sat – Sun, noon – 10 p.m. Rib vendors, family activities and top musical acts. Lincoln Ave. between Irving Park Rd. and Damen Ave., Chicago. 773 804-8700

| ELMHURST SUMMER FLING | Wed, Jun 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Food, drink and entertainment, with proceeds to benefit Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts. Cost: $30/25. 100 South Chophouse, 100 S York Rd., Elmhurst. www.ecpa-elmhurst.org | Woodridge Jubilee | Wed – Sun, Jun 13 – 17. Carnival rides, entertainment, games, fireworks, food vendors, family activities and more. Woodridge Dr. and Center Dr. in downtown Woodridge. 630 353-3300 | PrairieFest | Jun 14 – 17, Thur 5 − 11:30 p.m., Fri 4 p.m. − midnight, Sat 10 a.m. − midnight and Sun 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Business & craft expo, petting zoo, pony rides, carnival, food and more. PrairieFest Park, 91 Plank Rd., Oswego. 630 554-1010 or www.prairiefest.com | Old Canal Days | Jun 14 – 17, Thur, 2 − 11:30 p.m., Fri, 4 p.m. − midnight, Sat, 10 a.m. − midnight and Sun, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Days full of summer fun, with the Tuffy Car Show, a carnival, live entertainment, an arcade, a craft show and games. Downtown Lockport. 815 838-0549 or www.oldcanaldays.com

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| Scottish Festival & Highland Games | Jun 15 – 16, Fri, 1 – 10 p.m. and Sat, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Scottish contests, a cabor toss, bagpiping, a whiskey tasting, Celtic rock music, a British car show, and a Scottish market. Cost: $30/8. Hamilton Lakes, 1 Pierce Pl., Itasca. 708 426-7149 | Blues On The Fox | Jun 15 – 16, Fri ,7 p.m. and Sat, 3 p.m. Blues fest with Elle King, Samantha Fish, Sonny Landreth, Aaron Neville and others. Cost: $30/10. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway, Aurora. 630 896-7676 | Elgin Ribfest | Jun 15 – 17, Fri 5 – 11 p.m., Sat, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sun, noon – 7 p.m. Rib and food vendors, beer, wine, music, car show, family activities and entertainment. Cost: $5. Festival Park, 132 S Grove Ave., Elgin. www.elginribfest.com | 18th Annual Barrington Garden Fair & Marketplace | Jun 15 – 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Benefitting Hands for Hope, visit a flea market, take garden tours, and attend cooking demos and presentations on pollinators, beekeeping and sustainable eating. Various locations in Barrington, with parking/shuttle at Barrington High School, 616 W Main St. Barrington. 847 381-7367 | DOWNTOWN Naperville Classic Car Show | Sat, Jun 16, 9 a.m. – noon. Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk and enjoy the looks of up to 100 classic cars in all makes and models Jackson Ave. at the Riverwalk. 630 544-3372 | Art In Bloom Fine Arts Festival | Sat − Sun, Jun 16 – 17, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Annual art festival featuring a variety of artists, art-inspired activities and food trucks, plus entertainment from Classical Blast, Guitarra Azul and R-Gang. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Viking Midsummer Festival & Swedish Day | Sun, Jun 17, 9 a.m. Scandinavian music and dance, traditional foods, cottage walks, a Viking ship presentation, a Maypole celebration and carnival games. Cost: $5. Good Templar Park, 528 E Side Dr., Geneva. 630 232-4208 | Swedish Days Festival | Tue – Sun, Jun 19 – 24, Midsommar Festival featuring carnival, parade, food, drinks, children’s activities, games live entertainment and more. Downtown Geneva. 630 232-6060 | Rotary GroveFest | Jun 21 – 24, Thur 5:30 – 10 p.m., Fri – Sat noon – 11 p.m. and Sun noon – 10:30 p.m. Carnival, food & business expo, handmade market, craft beer, car show and entertainment. Downtown Downers Grove. 630 729-0351

Free Admission Open Year-Round! Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Close to home!

| Taste Of Joliet | Jun 22 – 24, Fri – Sat, noon – midnight and Sun, noon – 5 p.m. Live music featuring School of Rock, 7th Heaven, Stephen Neal, Kansas and others, as well as a carnival, a kids zone and food. Cost: $60/5. ATI Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium, 3000 W Jefferson St., Joliet. 815 741-7275

Spend an hour or spend the day!

| Monarchs & Milkweed Festival | Sat, Jun 23, noon – 3 p.m. Learn about native pollinators and

1000 Ray Moses Drive www.Aurora-il.org/150/Phillips-Park-Zoo

Surrounded by a beautiful park, a new playground, abundant picnic areas, and a splash pad!

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Photo courtesy of Morton Arboretum

SUMMER FUN GUIDE | barrington brew fest | Sat, Jul 7, 3 – 7 p.m. Nearly 50 brewers showcasing more than 90 brews, plus food and music. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $80/30. Metra Train Station parking lot, 201 Spring St., Barrington. www.barringtonbrewfest.com | Glendale Heights Fest | Jul 11 – 15, Wed – Thur 6 – 11 p.m., Fri, 6 p.m. – midnight, Sat 3 p.m. – midnight and Sun 3 – 11 p.m. Carnival, live entertainment, fireworks and food. Camera Park, 101 E Fullerton, Glendale Heights. 630 260-6000 | Taste Of Chicago | Jul 11 – 15, Wed – Fri, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sat – Sun, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Outdoor food and music festival with wide variety of vendors, live entertainment from Brandi Carlile, The Flaming Lips, Black Star, Juanes and other major national and regional artists. Grant Park, 337 E Randolph St., Chicago. www.tasteofchicago.us

Family Nights at the ARBoretum Thursdays, Jun 14 – Aug 16 plants at this family-friendly festival, with guided hikes,crafts, live music, food trucks and plant giveaways. LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St, St. Charles 630-444-3190.

fireworks, food, craft fair, live music and more; Also, Fri - Sun, 5:30 a.m. & 6 p.m., Balloon Launch. Cost: $8. Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short St. Lisle. www. eyestotheskies.org

| craft beer festival | Sat, Jun 23, 1 − 5 p.m. Local beers from 40 breweries and live music by Cajun band, Zydeco Voodoo and others. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $70/15. Visitor Center Lawn at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074

| Glen Ellyn Cardboard Boat Regatta | Sat Jun 30, 10 a.m. Race your handmade cardboard boat on Lake Ellyn. Registration required. Lake Ellyn, 645 Lenox Rd., Glen Ellyn. 630 858-2462

| Riverside Folk Festival | Sat, Jun 23, 1 − 5 p.m. Come for a restful summer picnic as live bands perform folk music, headlined by Glass Mountain. Cost: $5. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-5161 | zoobrew | Sat − Sun, Jun 23 − 24, 4 − 8 p.m. Annual tasting event with 80-plus beers and live entertainment. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $55/35. East Mall at Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Naperville Woman’s Club Art Fair | Sat – Sun, Jun 23 – 24, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Original works from 100 local and national artists, silent auction, children’s activities and more. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-9680 | Streator Walldog Festival | Wed – Sun, Jun 27 – Jul 1, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 200 artists descend on downtown Streator to paint 16 murals over five days. Various locations in downtown Streator. www.streatorwalldogs.com | tri cities craft brew festival | Sat, Jun 29, 1 – 5 p.m. More than 80 craft beers and ciders from 40 local and national craft breweries. Must be 21 and over. Cost: $70/15. Lincoln Park, W Main St. & N 5th St., St. Charles. www.tricitybrewfestival.com | Lisle Eyes To The Skies | Jun 27 – Jul 1, Wed & Thur, carnival only; Wed, 5 p.m. onwards and Thur – Sun, noon onwards. Carnival, parade, children’s activities,

| Naperville Ribfest | Jul 4 – 7, noon – 10 p.m. Rib vendors, music featuring Melissa Etheridge, Stray Cats, Pitbull, Steven Tyler and others. Cost: $50/15. Knoch Park, 724 S West St., Naperville. www.ribfest.net | 4th Of July Festival | Jul 3 – 4, Tue, 5 – 11 p.m. and Wed, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Parade, 4th Annual Cerny Series Baseball Games, fireworks, food, games, 5K run and live entertainment. Cerny Park, River Rd. and Forestview Ave., Warrenville. 630 393-9427 | 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION | Wed, Jul 4, 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Music from the American Legion Band and the Fox Valley Orchestra followed by fireworks. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 256-3370 | Geneva Classic Car Show | Thursdays, Jul 5 − Aug 30, 6 − 8 p.m. View classic, muscle and sports cars, vote on your favorite make and model, and enjoy music of the ‘50s, with food and drinks from local vendors and much more. Kane County Courthouse parking lot, 100 S 3rd St., Geneva. 630 232-6060 | Millennium Art Festival | Jul 6 – 8, Fri 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Outdoor festival with more than 110 juried artists, live music and food. Lake St. and Michigan Ave., Chicago. 847 926-4300 | Supercar Saturday | Jul 7 & Sept 1, 4 – 9 p.m. Meet Chicago area car enthusiasts and admire their rides. The Arboretum, 100 W Higgins Rd., South Barrington. www.supercarsaturdays.com

| RAILROAD DAYS | Jul 12 – 5, Thur – Fri, 4:30 – 11 p.m., Sat, noon – midnight and Sun, 2 – 10 p.m. Community festival featuring live music and entertainment, carnival, food court, business vendors, arts and crafts, beer garden and a parade. Pioneer Park, 479 W Forest Ave., West Chicago. 630 293-2200 | Lemont Heritage Festival | Sat, Jul 14, 4 – 11 p.m. Live entertainment, children’s games and activities, food and drinks and more. Downtown Lemont. 630 243-2700 | LIBERTY ARTS FESTIVAL | Thur – Sat, Jul 19 – 21, 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Enjoy an art walk and handmade market, a cocktail tasting, concerts, children’s activities and more. Downtown Morris. 815 941-0245 or www.downtownmorris.com | Taste Of Westmont | Jul 12 – 15, Thur 5:30 – 9:30 p.m., Fri, 3:30 – 10:30 p.m., Sat, noon – 10:30 p.m. and Sun, 1 – 8 p.m. Live entertainment, carnival, beer & margarita tent, craft show, food and more. Cass Ave, between Chicago and Burlington Ave., Downtown Westmont. 630 829-9378 | Itasca Fest | Jul 12 – 15, Thur 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Fri 6 p.m. – midnight, Sat noon – midnight and Sun noon – 11 p.m. Music, flea market, health fair, carnival, sports tournament and car show. Washington Park, 350 E Irving Park Rd., Itasca. 630 773-0835 | Windmill City Festival | Jul 13 – 15, Fri 4 – 11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Carnival, 5K, pet parade, music, food and more. The Riverwalk, 100 N Island Ave., Batavia. 630 879-5235 or www.windmillcityfest.org | naperville ale Fest | Sat, Jul 14, noon − 5 p.m. More than 200 beers from craft breweries around the world, live music and food from local restaurants. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $99/19. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. www.napervillealefest.com | JAZZ UP GLEN ELLYN | Sat, Jul 14, from 11 a.m. onwards. Multiple stages of jazz local and regional artists along with session performances at local stores and restaurants. Downtown Glen Ellyn, www.jazzupglenellyn.org

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ART THAT BEGS YOU TO STEP INSIDE. Find inspiration along the frank lloyd wright trail.

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Photo courtesy of Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

ELMHURST SUMMER FLING June 13 | La Grange Craft Fair | Jul 14 − 15, Sat 9 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 200 artisans showcase arts and crafts items, from original paintings and yard art to hand-made clothing. Downtown La Grange. www.lgba.com | Kane County Fair | Jul 18 – 22, Wed – Thur, 3 – 11 p.m., Fri – Sat, noon – midnight and Sun, noon – 10 p.m. Demolition derby, bull riding, carnival, contests and more. Cost: $20/15. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S Randall Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-6926 | Family Fun Fest | Fri, Jul 20, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Face painting, inflatables, games and activities. Community Park Bandshell, 1825 Short St., Lisle. 630 964-3410 | Summer Nights IN THE COMMONS | Jul 24 – Aug 28, 5 – 10 p.m. Come for a car show and stay for concerts, food vendors, craft beer and a market place. Hillside Commons, 4950 Washington St. 708-449-6450 | Prairie Fest | Thur − Sun, Jul 26 − 30 , Thur-Fri 6-11 p.m., Sat 1-11 p.m., Sun, 1-10 p.m. Music from The Ides of March, The Buckinghams, 7th Heaven and The Neverly Brothers, a carnival and Saturday fireworks. 655 N Wood Dale Road, Wood Dale. www.wooddale.com | YESFest | Fri − Sun, Jul 27 − 30 noon − 9 p.m. Celebrating its sixth year, an outdoor jamfest for local and regional musicians, comics, sketch & improv performers and poets. Patio at Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., and Brewpoint Workshop & Roastery, 617 N York Rd. Elmhurst. www.yesfest.weebly.com

demolition derby, livestock auction, beer tent and more. Cost: $15/7. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-6636 | Sugar Grove Corn Boil | Thur – Sun, Jul 26 – 29. Carnival, live music and food. Volunteer Park, 61 S Main St., Sugar Grove. 630 449-7999 | SUMMER WINE FEST | Fri, Jul 27, 6 – 9 p.m. Wine tastings talks with horticulture experts, live music and more. Ages 21 and up. Cost: $79/20. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St., Chicago. 312 742-2000 | Streamwood Summer Celebration | Jul 27 – 29, Fri, 5 – 10:30 p.m., Sat, 10:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. and Sun, noon – 7:30 p.m. Golf tournament, business expo, parade, live music and carnival. Hoosier Grove Park, 700 W Irving Park Rd., Streamwood. 630 736-3803 | Kendall County Fair | Aug 2 – 5, Tue, 4 – 6 p.m., Wed 2 – 9 p.m., Thur 8 a.m. − 9 p.m., Fri 8:30 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sun 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Carnival, Western Speed Show, livestock show and music. Cost: $8/4. Kendall County Fairgrounds, 10826 Illinois Route 71, Yorkville. 630 553-2860 | Lollapalooza | Thur – Sun, Aug 2 – 5, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Celebrated music festival with acts on multiple stages. Grant Park, Jackson and Columbus Dr., Chicago. www.lollapalooza.com | North Aurora Days | Thur − Sun, Aug 2 − 5. Car show, fishing derby, pet parade, 5K, music and more. Throughout North Aurora. 630 897-8228

| Geneva Arts Fair | Sat – Sun , Jul 28 – 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fine arts show featuring fine artisans, children’s activities, food and more. 100 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-6060

| Summer Daze Festival | Aug 3 − 4, Fri, 12:30 − 11:30 p.m. and Sat, 10 a.m. − 11:30 p.m. Music festival, business expo, family activities, teen arena and rides. Car show begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Downtown Warrenville. 630 393-7279

| DuPage County Fair | Wed – Sun, Jul 25 – 29, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. Live music, carnival, talent show,

| La Grange Endless Summerfest | Aug 3 − 5, Fri, 5 − 10:30 p.m., Sat, noon − 10:30 p.m. and Sun,

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| Taste Of Roselle | Aug 3 − 5, Fri, 6 − 11 p.m., Sat, noon − 11 p.m. and Sun, noon − 8 p.m. Carnival, craft fair, bingo tent, live entertainment and food. Main St. between Roselle Rd. and Park St., Downtown Roselle. 630 980-2000 | Destination asia Festival | Aug 3 − 6, Fri, 6 − 8 p.m., Sat and Sun, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Join an elegant festival with a formal ceremony, Asia-inspired performances, culinary delights, and a Japanese lantern display on Meadow Lake. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Wheaton Brew Fest | Sat, Aug 4, noon − 4:30 p.m. Craft beers, music and food from local restaurants. Must be 21 and over. Cost: $45/25. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. 630 510-5064 | comicopolis | Sat, Aug 4, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. 30 vendors display art, comics, prints and figures. White Oak Library, 121 E 8th St., Lockport. www.cityoflockport.net | Wheaton Wine Walk | Thur, Aug 9, 5 − 8:30 p.m. Sip, stroll and shop through downtown Wheaton. Includes 12 1-oz tastings and souvenir wine glass. Cost: $35. 630 682-0633 | Montgomery Fest | Aug 10 – 12, Fri 5 – 10 p.m. and Sat – Sun, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Carnival, parade, craft and business booths, music, petting zoo, car show, fishing derby and food. Montgomery Park, River St. and Mill St., Montgomery. 630 896-8080 | Bike Wheaton Festival | Sat, Aug 11, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Fun family festival kicking off with a family bike parade, followed by demonstrations of trick

cycling, Wheaton Police Department bike rodeo, safety lessons and music with a live DJ. Memorial Park, 208 W Union St., Wheaton. 630 682-0633 | Elburn Days | Fri − Sun, Aug 17 − 19. Parade, tractor pull, mud volleyball, live music and entertainment, carnival, food and more. Lions Park, 500 S Filmore St., Elburn. 630 365-6315 | Chicago Air & Water Show | Sat − Sun, Aug 18 − 19, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Annual air show with daredevil pilots, civilian and military pilots, parachute teams, jets-in-formation, aerial stunt performers and watercraft stunts. North Avenue Beach, Chicago. www.chicagoairandwatershow.us | park palooza | Sat, Aug 25, 5 − 10 p.m. Fifth annual event featuring music, children’s activities, food trucks, a beer garden and more. Berens Park, 493 N Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst. 630 993-8900 | Fall Festival Of Fine Art | Sep 1 − 2, Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. Juried art festival, live music, children’s activities, art demos and educational booth chats. 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 847 926-4300 | Naperville Wine Festival | Aug 24 – 25, Fri, 5 – 10 p.m., Sat, 3 – 8 p.m. More than 300 wines from around the world, seminars, cooking demos, food from local restaurants and live entertainment. Cost: $50/15. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. www.napervillewinefestival.com or 630 420-6010 | Concours d’Elegance | Sun, Aug 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Classic Car enthusiasts gather to show off antique, classic and modern automobiles. Various locations in downtown Geneva. 630 584-3107 | Chicago Jazz Festival | Thur – Sun, Aug 30 – Sept 2. Jazz music performances outdoors from major national and international artists and bands. Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St., Chicago. www.chicagojazzfestival.us Photo courtesy of Naperville Ribfest

Photo courtesy of Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts

noon − 10 p.m. Carnival, bands, human foosball, local food vendors, beer & wine garden, entertainment and fireworks. Free for children 12 and under. Cost: $3 admission after 5 p.m. on Fri – Sat. Gordon Park, Ogden Ave. and Tilden Ave., La Grange. www.lagrangeendlesssummerfest.com

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Photo courtesy of Eyes to the Skies Festival

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

| Oktoberfest | Oct 5 – 6, Fri, 5 – 10 p.m. and Sat, noon – 10 p.m. German beer and cuisine, live musical entertainment, family activities and more. Cost: $15/10. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster, Naperville. 630 305-4044 | St. Charles Scarecrow Festival | Oct 5 – 7, Fri – Sat, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sun, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Handcrafted scarecrows, craft show, live entertainment, carnival, petting zoo, food and more. Downtown St. Charles. 800 777-4373 | BATFEST | Sat, Oct 27, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Family fun, including mainstage music performances, downtown trick-or-treating, a costume contest, pumpkin carving and spooky storytelling. Downtown Batavia. 630 761-3528

MUSIC Series Lisle Eyes To The Skies June 29 – July 1 | Hometown Days Festival | Fri – Sun, Aug 31 – Sept 2. Live music, a car show, Ultimate Air Dog Show, carnival rides and food. Beecher Community Park, 908 Game Farm Rd., Yorkville. 630 553-4357 | Naperville jaycees Last Fling | Aug 31 – Sep 2, Fri, 5 – 11 p.m., Sat – Sun, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Mon, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Main stage entertainment by multiple musical acts, food, drinks, carnival, parade and more. Downtown Naperville. 630 961-4143 | Kline CreeK Farm Country Fair | Sat – Sun Sept 1 – 2, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Experience a fair from DuPage County’s agricultural past, with horsedrawn wagon rides and live entertainment. Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Rd., West Chicago, 630 876-5900 | The Sandwich Fair | Wed − Sun, Sept 5 − 9, 9 a.m. − 9 p.m. Harness racing, carnival rides, exhibits and live music. Free for children 5 and under. Cost: $9/5. 1401 Suydam Rd., Sandwich. 815 786-2159 | Bartlett Heritage Days | Fri − Sun, Sept 7 – 9. Arts and crafts show, car show, antique/flea market, carnival, live music, beer tent, food vendors and more. Downtown Bartlett. 630 924-4263 or www.bartlettheritagedays.com | Festival Of The Vine | Sept 7 – 9, Fri – Sat 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun, noon – 5 p.m. Wine tasting, craft show, flower market and entertainment. W State St. and N Fourth St., Downtown Geneva. 630 232-6060 | Darien Fest | Sept 7 – 9, Fri, 6 – 10:30 p.m., Sat, 1 – 10:30 p.m. and Sun, noon – 7 p.m. Carnival, Little Miss Darien contest, a car show, live entertainment, business expo, food, beer tent and more. Darien Community Park, 71st and Clarendon Hills Rds., Darien. 630 968-0004 | Forest Park Rib Fest | Sat, Sept 8, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Rib and other food vendors, music, children’s activities and more. Forest Park Picnic Grove, 7824 Madison St., Forest Park. 708 366-2323

| World War II Days | Sept 8 − 9, Sat 9:30 a.m. − 10:30 p.m. and Sun 9:30 a.m. − 5 p.m. Battle reenactments, aircraft fly-overs, demonstrations, music, food, beer garden and more. Dellwood Park, Rte. 171 and Woods Dr., Lockport. 815 838-3621 | Downtown Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival | Sat – Sun, Sept 8 − 9, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Juried art festival, boutiques, live music, children’s activities and more. Main St. and Curtiss St., Downers Grove. 630 725-0991 | West End Art Festival | Sept 8 – 9, Sat, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Juried artists, performance art, music, art activities and culinary demonstrations. Stone Avenue Station, Burlington and Brainard Ave., La Grange. 708 582-6510 | Oaktoberfest | Sept 14 − 15, Fri, 4 − 10 p.m. and Sat, noon – 10 p.m. Microbrews and wines, seasonal food, premier music lineup and a Kids’ Root Beer Garden. Marion St. between Lake St. and North Blvd., Downtown Oak Park. 708 383-4145 | Heritage Fest | Sept 14 – 16, Fri, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sun, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Art and craft show featuring live entertainment, an antique show, Cool Car vintage car show, food, children’s activities and a fireworks display on Friday night. N 3rd St. and Lincoln Ave., West Dundee. 630 387-1151 | Riverwalk Fine Art Fair | Sat – Sun, Sept 15 – 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Outdoor juried art exhibit and sale. Along the Naperville Riverwalk, Downtown Naperville. 630 544-3372 | Lisle Depot Days | Sat – Sun, Sept 15 – 16, noon – 5 p.m. Old-fashioned fun with history-themed events, games, a petting zoo, contests. Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School St., Lisle. 630 271-4100 | Lisle Ale Fest | Sat, Sept 29, 4 – 8 p.m. Craft beers, food and live music. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $75/15. Prairie Walk Pond, Garfield Ave., Lisle. 630 964-0052 or www.lislealefest.com

| ARBOR EVENINGS: MUSIC AND MORE | Wednesdays, Jun 6 –Aug 29, 5:30 p.m., except Jul 4. Enjoy a family night on the lawns with live music from Frank & Dave, Cadillac Groove and others, plus dancing, lawn games, beverages, and tapas. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | CABCAB | Saturdays, Jun 21, Aug 4 & Sept 8. “Cabernet-Cabaret” covers popular hit songs from The Beatles, Mumford & Sons, Def Leppard and others. Cost: $30/26. Arranmore Farm & Polo Club, 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. 630 884-8271 | Carol Stream Summer CoNcerts | Thursdays through Aug 9, 7 − 9 p.m, except Jul 5. Additional concert on Jul 4, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Live concerts and food specialties, with performances by American English, Rosie & The Rivets, Piano Man and others. Ferraro Town Center, 960 N Gary Ave., Carol Stream. 630 665-7050 | concertS in the Park | Wednesdays, Jul 11 − Aug 1, 7 p.m. Entertainment from June’s Got the Cash, Mr. Myers, The StingRays and The Ethan Bell Band, with ice cream from Graham’s and beer from Penrose Brewing. River. RiverPark, 151 N River Ln., Geneva. 630 232-7494 | Concerts in Your Park | Sundays, Jun 10 – Jul 29, 7 p.m. Free live music series that travels to select Naperville parks featuring bands voted in by residents, including Midwest Dueling Pianos, Fletcher Rockwell and Final Say. For schedule and locations, visit www.napervilleparks.org. Various parks throughout Naperville. 630 848-5000 | Concerts on the green | Fridays, Jun 15 – Aug 24, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Free summer evening concert series of some of the area’s best artists. Burr Ridge Village Center, 701 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge. 630 654-2782 | country in the park | Tuesdays, Jun 12 − Aug 14, 7 − 10 p.m. Country concert series featuring some of Nashville’s most popular emerging country artists, plus food and beverage tents. Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008|

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

| Downers Grove Summer Concert Series | Tuesdays through Aug 21, 7 p.m. Enjoy entertainment from musicians such as Rosie and the Rivets, Suburban Cowboys and The Rhythm Rockets. Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. 630 960-7500 | GENEVA COMMONS summer concert series | Jun 22 – Jul 15, Wed, & Fri, 6:30 − 8:30 p.m. and Sun 5 − 7 p.m. Free outdoor concert series featuring Neverly Brothers, Hi Infidelity, Serendipity and Hillbilly Rockstarz. Courtyard at Geneva Commons, 602 Commons Dr., Geneva. 630 262-0044 | lakeside pavilion concert series | Thursdays & Fridays, Jul 12 − Aug 10, 7:30 p.m. Outdoor music and entertainment in a lake side setting featuring acts such as American English, Unraveling the Wilburys and Piano Men, as well as the MAC’s New Philharmonic. Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | LIVE on the lawn | Wednesdays through Aug 29, except Aug. 1, 5:30 − 9 p.m. Jun 27 is re-scheduled for Thur, Jun 28. Live music by various bands including Charles & Company, Rock, Paper, Scissors, Bob Abrams and Lemon Lizards, plus food and drinks on the lawn. St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, 2241 Rt. 59, West Chicago. 630 231-3100 | Millennium Carillon Summer Recital Series | Tuesdays, Jun 5 – Aug 21, 7 p.m. Bring a picnic and listen to carillonneurs from across the country and all over the world. Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, along Riverwalk’s Rotary Hill, Naperville. 630 848-5000 | MUSIC AT THE GAZEBO | Thursdays, Jun 7 – Aug 15, 7 p.m. Enjoy various musical acts under the stars. Elmhurst Gazebo, Spring Rd. & Vallette St., Elmhurst. www.springroad.com

| Sounds of summer concert series | Fridays & Saturdays through Sept 22, 7 p.m. Concert series featuring 33 local bands of many genres, including Chicks with Picks, Insession, Citrus Fountain, the Wind Gypsys, Jeff Ulos Duo and Planet Groove. Eaglewood Resort & Spa, 1401 Nordic Rd., Itasca. 630 773-1400 | Sunday oUTDOOR Concerts AT CANTIGNY | Sundays through Sept 2, 3 p.m. except Jun 17 at 10 a.m. and Aug 19 at 11.a.m. No concert on Aug 12. Free outdoor concerts featuring a wide variety of artists, including The Class of ‘68, The Four Notes, June’s Got the Cash, Odyssey and American English. Cantigny Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Tuesday Summer Movie series | Tuesdays, through Oct 30, 7 p.m. This new series in a classic movie theatre includes “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” “The Sandlot” and “Independence Day,” Cost: $5. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E Van Buren St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | uniquely thursdays | Thursdays, Jun 15 − Aug 24, 6 − 9 p.m. Musical event featuring local bands, a beer and wine tent and vendors from local businesses. Burlington Park, 30 E Chicago Ave., Hinsdale. 630 323-3952 | wdcb jazz series | Thursdays, Jul 26, Aug 3 & 10, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy free outdoor performances by Chicago Jazz Orchestra, Frank Russell & The Chicago Power All-Star Band, and Joe Louis Walker Band. Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Wednesdays at the Plaza | Wednesdays, Jun 20, Jul 18 and Aug 15, 5 – 9 p.m. Listen to live music while dining from food trucks, with such acts as Rebel Soul Revival, Stumpwater and Kevin Andrew Prchal. Millennium Plaza, Stolp Ave., Aurora. 630 674-2099

| Naper Nights Summer Concert Series | Fri − Sat, Jun 15 − 16, Jul 20 − 21 & Aug 17 − 18, 5 p.m. Enjoy music from various artists including Wall of Denial, The Pettybreakers, The Fortunate Sons and Planet Groove, plus food, drinks and activities. Free for members and children under 4. Cost: $15/10. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010

| Wheaton Municipal Band concert series | Thursdays, June 7 – Aug 9, 7:30 p.m.; Also, Sat, Aug 5, 8 p.m. The symphonic band plays a variety of styles and themes from marches and overtures to show tunes. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. www.wheatonmunicipalband.org

| Riverpark SUMMER concert series | Sundays, Jul 8 − 29, 6 p.m. Lee Murdock, Illinois Brass Band, Steel Crazy Steel Band and Miscella’s Sweet Melodies perform in the stone amphitheatre on the northwest bank of the Fox River. RiverPark, 151 N River Ln., Geneva. 630 232-7494

FAMILY & GENERAL

| ROCK THE BLOCK | Wednesdays through Jul 25, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Outdoor music for all the family in two Elmhurst locations. City Center Fountain Plaza at York Rd., & Schiller St., and North York Plaza at 200 N York Rd., Elmhurst. 630 993-1600 | Rockin’ In The Park | Thursdays through Aug 30, 7 − 10 p.m. This summer concert series features music of classic cover bands, food and beverage tents, as well as a musical fireworks show. Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008

| History Alive! | Thursdays through Sept 30, 1 – 3 p.m. Families can dress up in the uniforms and equipment of soldiers from different time periods, then engage in related games and crafts. First Division Museum, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668 5161. | ACORN EXPRESS TRAM TOURS | Through Sun, Nov 4. Ride through 1,700 acres on a guided hourlong tour through wetlands, prairies and woodlands. Call for times. Cost: $5/4. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | A night at the movies | Jun I & 30, Jul 14, Aug 3 and Sept 22, 8:30 p.m. A series of family-friendly

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Old Canal Days Downtown Lockport, Jun 14 – 17 movies, including “The Parent Trap” and “National Treasure,” screened in various Naperville parks. weather permitting. Check website for schedule. www.napervilleparks.org | Movies In The Park | Fridays, Jun 1 − Aug 17, 8:30 p.m. Bring a picnic for movies under the stars with “My Little Pony,” “Wonder,” “Jumanji” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | camp naper: summer day camp | Jun 4 − Aug 3. A variety of hands-on day camps that range from cooking and treasure hunts to music and drawing lessons. For grades 1 − 8. Registration required. Cost varies per camp. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Wednesday morning movie series | Wednesdays, Jun 6 − Aug 8, 10 a.m. A weekly series of PG-rated films including “The Boss Baby,” “Despicable Me 3” “Ferdinand” and “Paddington 2,” with games and costumed characters on hand at 9 a.m. before the movie. Cost: $1. Classic Cinema Theatres. www.classiccinemas.com

Rockin’ with Leonardo. The Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668 5161 | Children’s Lunch Hour Entertainment | Tuesdays, Jun 12 – Jul 24, 11:30 a.m. Pack a lunch and enjoy performances that are geared to the young and young at heart at either Frontier Park or Naperville Riverwalk. For schedule and locations, visit www.napervilleparks.org. Frontier Park, 3415 Book Rd.; Riverwalk Grand Pavilion, 500 Jackson Ave., Naperville. 630 848-5000 | Wild Wednesdays | Wednesdays, Jun 13 – Sep 8, 1 – 3 p.m. Children ages 2 – 8 with an accompanying adult are invited to stop by the backyard of the Visitors Center for a hands-on, nature exploration and to create a fun project to take home. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668 5161. | Family Nights at the ARBoretum | Thursdays, Jun 14 – Aug 16, 5:30 − 8 p.m. Family entertainment, with performers including Animal Farm, Super Stolie, Miss Jamie’s Farm and others. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

| Wednesdays, Woods & Wine | Wednesdays, Jun 6 − Aug 29, 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

| Viking Ship Tours | Jun 17, 23 &24, Jul 14 & 21 , Aug 168, Sept 15, Oct 20 and Nov 11, 1 – 4 p.m. Take a tour of Geneva’s life-size replica of an 1893 Viking ship. Cost: $5. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. Good Templar Park, 528 E Side Dr., Geneva. 630 753-9412

| OAK BROOK POLO | Sundays, Jun 10 & 24, Jul 15 & 22, Aug 5 & 19 and Sept 9. Some of the best food trucks and on-site restaurants serve gourmet bites as attendees watch the Oak Brook Polo Club tournaments. Cost: $40/10. Prince of Wales Field, 2606 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 368-5095 or www. oakbrookpoloclub.com

| brookfield zoo: summer Nights | Fri − Sat, Jul 6 − Aug 18, 4 − 9 p.m. Enjoy cool summer evenings with dining, a beer & wine garden, live music, children’s games and a laser light show. Ticket includes zoo admission plus one attraction. Cost: $16/11 after 4 p.m. East Mall at the Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000

| FAMILY OUTDOOR Concert Series at Cantigny | Sundays, Jun 10, Jul 1, Aug 19 – Sept 2, noon. Engaging, interactive and fun performances featuring Miss Jamie’s Farm. ScribbleMonster and

| ARRANMORE POLO | Sundays, Jul 8 and Aug 12, 3 p.m. Invitational polo matches at Arranmore Farm & Polo Club. Cost: $50. 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com

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Farmers Markets |

Aurora | Saturdays, Jun 9 – Oct 20, 8 a.m. – noon. Aurora Transportation Center, 233 N Broadway; Wednesdays, Jul 11 – Sept 26, noon – 5 p.m. West Aurora Plaza Shopping Ctrr., 1901 W Galena Blvd. 630 256-3374

Barrington | Thursdays, Jun 14 – Oct 18 p.m., 3 – 7 p.m. Park Ave. and Cook St. 847 304-3400 or www.barringtonfarmersmarket.com

Batavia | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Oct 27, 8 a.m. – noon. N River St. between Wilson and State St. 630 761-3528 or info@downtownbatavia.com

| bolingbrook | Thursdays, Jun 7 – Aug 30, 4 – 9 p.m., Aug 24 – Sept 7, 4 – 8 p.m. The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E Boughton Rd. 630 296-8350 or www.shoppingpromenade.com/events

brookfield | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Oct 13, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Brookfield Village Hall parking lot, 8820 Brookfield Ave. 708 268-8080 or www.brookfieldchamber.net/farmers-market

Morris 3 french Hens country market | Saturdays, May 12, Jun 9, Jul 14, Aug 11, Sept 8 and Oct 13, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. 123 W Illinois Ave., Morris. www.3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com

naperville | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Oct 27, 7 a.m. – noon. Fifth Avenue Station parking lot, 200 E Fifth Ave. 630 369-5638

oak park | Saturdays through Oct 27, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Pilgrim Church parking lot, 460 Lake St. 708 358-5780 or www.oak-park.us

oswego country market | Sundays, Jun 3 – Sept 30, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Main St. 630 554-4433 or www.oswegolandparkdistrict.org

Plainfield | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Sept 29, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 15420 S Route 59. and Lockport St. 630 608-7344

| riverside | Wednesdays, Jun 6 – Oct 10, 2:30 – 7 p.m. Historic Water Tower, 10 Pine Ave. 708 447-2700

Downers Grove | Saturdays through Oct. 20, 7 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Main Street Train Station South parking lot off Burlington Ave. 630 968-8400

| elgin | Fridays, Jun 1 - Oct 5, 3 – 7 p.m. 200 N Grove Ave. 630 488-1456

| elmhurst | Wednesdays, Jun 6 - Oct 31, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. S York St. and Vallette St. 630 832-4550 | GENEVA french market | Sundays, Jun 3 – Nov 11, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Metra commuter train parking lot between South St. & 4th St. 630 232-6060 or www.genevachamber.com | glen ellyn french market | Sundays, Jun 3 – Oct 28, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Downtown Glen Ellyn. 630 469-0907 or www.glenellynchamber.com | hinsdale | Mondays, Jun 4 - Oct 8, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Burlington Park at 30 E Chicago Ave. 630 323-3952 |

La Grange | Thursdays through Oct 25, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. In front of La Grange Village Hall, 53 S La Gramge Rd. 708 582-6510

lemont artisan market | Wednesdays, Jun 13 – Aug 27, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Legion’s Park on Main St. 630 257-5997

lisle french market | Saturdays through Oct 27, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prairie Lake Pond on Garfield Ave.. 630 271-4100 or www.villageoflisle.com

| Lakeside pavilion movie Series | Thursdays, Jul 12 & 19, 8 p.m. Watch movies outdoors, with “Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory” then “The Lion KIng.” Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | brookfield zoo: summer sundays | Sundays, Jul 15 & 22, Aug 5, 12, & 19, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Join in the zoo’s family-friendly programming such as concerts and meet and greets with your favorite characters. East Mall at the Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000

schaumburg | Fridays, Jun 1 through Oct 26, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Trickster Gallery, 190 S Roselle Rd. 847 923-3855 or www.ci.schaumburg.il.us

St. Charles | Fridays, Jun 1 – Oct 26, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 4th Ave. and Main St. 630 988-0705

St. Charles Primrose Farm | Thursdays and Saturdays until Fall, 2 – 6 p.m. on Wed and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sat. 5N726 Crane Rd., 630 513-4370

sugar grove | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Sept 30, 8 a.m. – noon. Village Hall parking lot, 10 Municipal Dr. 630 466-1014

| western springs french market | Sundays through Oct 28, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Hillgrove Ave. between Lawn Ave. and Grand Ave. 708 414-3219 or www.wsprings.com | wheaton french market | Saturdays through Nov 10, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Main St. and Liberty Dr. 630 260-2000 or www.w.il.us

winfield | Wednesdays, Jun 20 – Aug 15, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Winfield Government Center parking lot, 10645 Randolph St. 630 663-7027 or www.winfieldtwp.com

Yorkville | Saturdays, Jun 2 – Aug 25, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Town Square Park, 301 N Bridge St., 630 553-4357 or www.yorkville.il.us

| Tour of Lake Ellyn Cycling Race | Sat, Jul 28, 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Intelligentsia Cup bicycle racing around Lake Ellyn. 645 Lenox Rd, Glen Ellyn. www.glenellyn.org | EquiFest: Festival of the Horse | Jul 25 – 29, Jul 31 – Aug 5 and Aug 8 – 12. A series of three horse jumping and dressage competitions in an enjoyable family atmosphere. Call for daily schedule. Lamplight Equestrian Center, 6N940 Dunham Rd, Wayne. 630 497-1770

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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| Shakespeare In The Park | Fri – Sat, Aug 24 – 25, 7 p.m. Wheaton College Arena Theater & Wheaton Park District present an outdoor production of one of Shakespeare’s comedies, performed by Wheaton College alumni, students and professional actors. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. 630 690-4880

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WATER PARKS | Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad | A 2,527-sq-ft spray park featuring a 155-ft water slide with plunge pool, zero-depth entry pool, interactive play area, drop slides and diving board, misting and jetting mechanisms and sand play area. 1100 W Wood St., Bensenville. 630 766-7015 or www.bensenvillepardistrict.org | Centennial Beach | Holding 6.2 million gallons of water, this local “swimming hole” features a zerodepth entry, sand play area, sand volleyball, water slide, water play features and diving boards. 500 W Jackson Ave., Naperville. www.centennialbeach. org or 630 848-5092 | Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park | An award-winning water park featuring a spray playground with slides, water guns and a giant dumping bucket, a 600-ft lazy river, a zero-depth pool, three body slides, a sand area and more. 8301 S Janes Ave., Woodridge. www.cypresscove.org or 630 353-3350 | Hall Quarry Beach | Award-winning facility featuring a sand bottom swimming area covering 60,000-sq-ft of islands, slides and a diving area. 40 0 S Water St., Batavia. 630 406 - 5275 or www.bataviaparks.org | Itasca Waterpark | This water park features an 8-lane lap pool with zero-depth entry, slides, children’s interactive pool with a 9-ft water spraying palm tree and slides. 100 N Catalpa Ave., Itasca. 630 773-1213 or www.itascaparkdistrict.com | Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center| One of the largest water parks in Northern Illinois, with two 37-ft slides, drop slides, a 550-ft lazy river,

cliff dives and a zero-depth pool with fountains, jet sprays, a dolphin slide and a Beluga Beach for tots. 2025 Miner St., Des Plaines. 847 391-5740 or www.dpparks.org | Oak Brook Family Aquatic Center | Awardwinning indoor aquatic center featuring six 25-yd lap lanes, three slides, a 105-ft water slide, water vortex, zero-depth splash area and a 10-person whirlpool 1450 Forest Gate Rd., Oak Brook. 630 6459581 or www.obparks.org | Otter Cove Aquatic Park | Features a lazy river, lap pool, sand play area, tube and body slides, and a Splash Park with an interactive children’s water play area. 3615 Campton Hills Rd., St. Charles. 630 513-4377 or www.ottercove.org | Paradise Bay Water Park | Award-winning facility featuring slides, diving boards, 8-lane lap pool, water basketball and volleyball, fountains, water sprays and more. 437 E St. Charles Rd., Lombard. 630 627-6127 or www.lombardparks.com | Raging Waves | Illinois’ largest water park, featuring the signature Boomerang ride, a 600-ftlong family raft ride, Kangaroo Falls for children, Cyclone, 2-seater speed tube ride, PJ’s Plummet, Tasmanian Twisters and many more water slides. 40 0 0 N Bridge St., York ville. 630 882- 6575 or www.ragingwaves.com | Sea Lion Aquatic Park |Award-winning aquatic park featuring two 50-ft body flume slides, two drop slides, a snake-walking pad, a lap pool, a vortex pool, a zero-depth pool, two water canons, a splash playground, a sand play area and more. 1825 Short St., Lisle. 630 964-3410 or | TURTLE SPLASH WATER PARK | Outdoor kidfriendly water park featuring three slides, a play waterfall, sandy play area, zero depth entry pool and lap lanes. 129 W National St., West Chicago. 630 293-6320 or www.we-goparks.org | Ty Warner Park Spray Park | A zero-depth spray park with water shooting cannons, dumping bucket, three bucket sneaky soaker, mushroom cap water walls and spray spouts. 800 Blackhawk Dr., Westmont. 630 969-8080

Check us out online westsuburbanliving.net

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Marvin bi-fold doors offer a simple, elegant solution for indoor/outdoor living

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ffer offer ution ing

Photo courtesy of Marvin Windows and Doors

often inspires homeowners to eschew Inside Out of Next Door & Window in Naperville, window treatments. “Black or ebony on Though the trend started on the Burr Ridge and Arlington Heights. the inside is a new trend,” notes Mariotti. West Coast, windows and doors that “It does depend on the type of home, allow indoor and outdoor spaces to blend There are numerous options, however, the architecture and the colors you are seamlessly have been gaining traction and many factors go into color selection. looking for. A professional can help you in the Midwest as well. “That trend has “Some darker exterior colors are trending find the right product for your home.” definitely hit Chicago,” says Dan Searls, a bit now, but on the interior, we see Sometimes the choice of window sales manager for Searls Windows and more variety, with homeowners looking material is driven by what is customary Doors, which has locations in Plainfield to match new their new window to in the neighborhood. Another factor and Chicago. “We might not have as long existing trim casings or going to white is how long the homeowner expects a warm season, but when the season hits, windows and keeping the stained wood to remain in the home — if they plan people really do want to enjoy their trim,” says Dennis Allen, co-owner of to stay longer, they’re likely to invest backyards and patios.” Advanced Windows & Siding in Batavia. more in their replacement windows. Ken Mariotti, co-owner Though most of Woodland Windows & homeowners choose Doors in Roselle, has also the same window observed this trend. “People material for use desire open spaces and more throughout their glass to bring in more of the home, Tara Dawn, outdoors,” he says. “It changes co-owner and the whole feel of your home.” marketing manager Toward that end, large-scale of Opal Enterprises, multi-operational door systems, which has offices which open up to unite interior in Naperville, says and exterior living spaces, have she has seen some become increasingly popular. clients who select Searls and Woodland both sell more expensive wood Marvin Scenic Doors, which windows for the include both bi-fold and sliding public areas of their varieties. While typical patio home and vinyl for doors tend to be 8 to 10 feet bedrooms and baths. high, these doors are 12 feet Whatever the Floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors provide great views, an open feel, and easy patio access. high and can be ordered in a material choice, variety of profiles, and options include most products on the market today are “Others are getting white windows pocket or stacked panels. extremely energy efficient and feature and having all the trim painted white a maintenance free-exterior, with wood In addition to allowing access to match.” products including an aluminum-clad to the backyard, these windows also exterior surface. bring more light and ventilation indoors. Material Issues “There’s a little bit of a ‘wow’ factor Most windows on the market today Style Story to them,” acknowledges Searls. “Everybody are either vinyl, fiberglass or wood. wants something unique and these are Choices are often driven by budget Just as many stick with familiar such a statement piece.” and/or personal preference, with vinyl materials, they often select replacement being the lower-cost option. Fiberglass windows of the same style. Double-hung Color Show tends to fall in the middle of the price windows have a very traditional, Colonial spectrum. It features a variety of color look, while casement windows are a bit While white window frames are still options and is valued for its durability. more contemporary. However, making a top choice for those who prefer their Wood selections range from pine to a different choice can give your home crisp, clean look, some homeowners black walnut, and wood windows are a makeover. “You can switch the style are gravitating toward dark gray, bronze often considered a premium product of your home by switching the style or black. These hues lend a depth and and more of an investment. of windows,” says Mariotti. sophistication to a home’s exterior or interior and can become a focal point “They each have their own pros There are practical advantages to both in any room. In fact, their striking look and cons,” says Justin Bartley, president kinds of windows — you can mix and WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JUNE 2018 57

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Tips from the Pros How to get the most out of your window or door project 1. Don’t repair if you need to replace. If your windows are 25-plus years old and you’re seeing moisture between the glass, it might be time to replace rather than repair. “Before you start bandaging up your windows, consider their age,” advises Mariotti. 2. Know your replacement. There are two kinds of replacement windows — full and partial. Partial replacement involves putting the new window into the old frame. This can save money, but might cost you visibility because you are putting the window and frame into an existing frame. If you’re going the partial replacement route, make sure your old frame is in good shape. 3. Determine your values. “Decide what is most important to you, aside from price,” advises Dawn, noting that, while one person might value a contractor who can get them on the

match the types in different areas of your home. For example, awning or casement windows, which crank open and closed, might be a better choice for above a kitchen sink or another area where you have to reach to operate them. “We find that a lot of people gravitate toward the type of windows they had in their home growing up,” says Allen. “Some folks prefer double hung, while others like casement windows. It’s really personal preference, location on the home and what the owner’s objectives are in terms of efficiency, view and style.” Extra Embellishments When it comes to accessorizing windows, some say grids or grilles are still in fashion, especially those that making cleaning easier, such as those that can be removed or those that are sandwiched between layers of glass. Simulated divided lights are another option. True dividedlight windows feature multiple panes of

schedule quickly, another might be more concerned with warranty. Working this out ahead of time will help you choose the right contractor. 4. Seek quality installation. Do thorough research about a company you are thinking of hiring — ask for and contact references and read reviews. “A good window is only as good as the professional who is putting it in,” points out Mariotti. 5. Get hands-on. Visit a showroom and check out the full-size models. Some contractors even offer virtual design so you can “try on” different doors and windows using images of your home. 6. Ask about warranties. Some warranties are “lifetime” for the original owner only, while others can be transferred to a second owner. “This adds value when selling your home,” says Allen.

glass separated by grids, while simulated divided-light windows feature one pane of glass with grids mounted to the glass on the outside and inside surface of the glass. Traditional Colonial-style grids are facing competition from Prairie and Craftsman styles, with some homeowners even choosing to go without. “We find that grids are a big point of contention,” says Allen. “Some people want to get rid of them when they get new windows and some people love them.” When it comes to shutters, less also is proving to be more. Some homeowners are foregoing them altogether for a more minimalist look. “They aren’t as popular as they used to be,” says Mariotti. “People want a cleaner, less busy exterior.” Grand Entrance Though your home may have dozens of windows, it likely has but one entry door, so replacing it can go a long way toward accenting the style of your home

and boosting curb appeal. “Doors are overlooked, but your front door should stand out on its own — it’s the first thing people notice about your home,” says Mariotti. “Craftsman-style doors are becoming more popular, and we’re seeing more people replacing wooden doors with wood-grained fiberglass doors,” says Allen. “Decorative glass with some privacy element and darker colored stains are trending, and there are some new glaze finishes that have been introduced that offer a rustic elegance.” While styles of door may vary, fiberglass has overtaken wood and steel as the material of choice. “Fiberglass holds up to weather really well, and they have come so far with duplicating the look of wood,” explains Dawn. Dawn also points out that homeowners are looking to add personality to their entry doors. “Decorative glass has been trending as well as decorative elements, like dentils, bump-outs and shelves, which add more dimension,” she says. “People really like those elements that pop, and they are relatively affordable ways to set your door apart.” Color and unique hardware also make a door stand out. “Everybody has different tastes, and there are no rules for the front door — we’re seeing everything from black to bright colors,” says Bartley. Tech Zone Smart technology and automation is gaining ground in the home, and it has come to windows and doors as well, from integrated shade systems and motorized screens and shades to built-in security sensors that allow you to check your doors and windows from your smart phone to see whether they are open or closed, locked or unlocked. Another new option is electric privacy glass, which can be changed from clear to opaque with the flip of a switch. “Engineering and technology,” says Searls, “have created advances that make your home function much differently than even 15 to 20 years ago.” n

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Photo by Tonya Parravano, Andrew’s Garden

Love Is in Bloom Discover the joys of a garden of flowers meant to be cut and welcomed indoors By Sara Pearsaul Vice

Ah, June …

the height of the garden season and wedding season, when all the world seems to blossom. And who doesn’t love flowers? According to a Rutgers University study, a gift of flowers is universally received with a genuine smile. So perhaps we should all spend more time cultivating happiness by cultivating flowers. As love and luck would have it, June is the perfect time to get started with a flower garden.

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Photo courtesy of Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts

and cosmos,” advises Candice Hart, also a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension. “Plant seeds right in the ground. They germinate fast and you can keep cutting all season long.” She favors using raised beds for flowers in her own garden, but says you can just devote a container to cut flowers, if space is an issue. In fact, seeds are the best way to grow annual flowers for cutting because they cost so much less than potted plants. Choosing What to Grow Horticulturist Nina Koziol, who teaches gardening classes at the Morton Arboretum and the Chicago Botanic Garden, says that just about everything in your garden can be cut and brought

indoors to turn into a floral arrangement. She plants for a harvest that lasts all the way from early spring with its bulbs and flowering branches through late summer and fall with perennial flowers such as asters. For flowers intended for indoor arrangements, she shares a list of favorites, including prairie flowers such as liatris and purple coneflowers. “Everybody loves sunflowers and it costs $3 for a big package of seeds,” she adds. To harvest cut flowers for maximum freshness, Koziol recommends taking a bucket of water outside so you can put the cut flowers and foliage into water immediately. In her own home, she usually has a bouquet from her garden at all times, such as sprigs of lavender in a small ceramic vase. “I use a lot of herbs in my arrangements,” she relates. “Dill and fennel blossoms are beautiful.” Hosta leaves and ferns often serve as a base for larger arrangements. If you don’t have your own flowers growing, Koziol suggests buying a bunch of flowers at the farmers market or flower shop and augment the bouquet with foliage from your garden. Flowers, she says, “make it so much more welcoming in the house.” Heidi Ong, who owns Petals Farm

Photos courtesy of Petals Farm

Garden

Growing a Cutting Garden Most suburban gardeners incorporate flowering plants in the landscape, whether annuals, perennials or ornamental shrubs, but not as many devote a special space to growing flowers intended to harvest for floral arrangements to bring indoors. According to area experts, cutting gardens don’t require too much trouble or expense to produce a beautiful crop. Richard Hentschel, horticulture educator for University of Illinois Extension in St. Charles says, “Any soil where you can grow a vegetable will make plants strong and healthy and produce a lot of flowers.” That means a spot that receives full sun (six hours or more) and is well drained with a “good level of organic matter, such as compost or peat moss.” While you could devote an entire garden bed to flowers for cutting, it isn’t absolutely necessary. “You can actually grow flowers right in your vegetable garden. You don’t have to have a special bed,” says Hentschel. He suggests planting a row of flowers to brighten the vegetable garden and staggering the time of planting so that the flowers keep coming. “The easiest thing is to start seeds of annual flowers like zinnias, sunflowers

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with her husband, grows two fields of organic flowers — one on a five-acre farm in downtown Huntley and the other on the 24-acre family farm outside of town. At the Oak Park Farmers Market, suburban gardeners often ask her for tips on how to grow the flowers she sells there. Among the most popular varieties are peonies in spring and hydrangeas in late summer. She likes to combine Limelight and Tardiva hydrangeas in a bouquet. Photos courtes

ers & Gifts y of Phillip’s Flow

Also favored by suburban buyers are sunflowers, larkspur, zinnias, and dahlias, the latter of which come in pompom, decorative and dinner plate varieties. She sells bunches of individual flowers as well as bouquets made on the spot. In case you have wondered just how fresh those flowers at the market might be, Ong says, “We pick them the day before, bunch them up and put them in the cooler at about 4 p.m. We start loading things up at 3 a.m.” She notes that the

Smitten by Flowers You might say that the family passion

and sister-in-law help out, too. Ong sells

for flowers started in Chicago’s Logan

her flowers at farmers markets in Oak

Square neighborhood and has come

Park and in Chicago at the Green City

full circle.

Market, Wicker Park and, quite naturally,

Flower farmer Heidi Ong is the

Logan Square.“We like a family member

daughter of parents who grew up

to be at any of the markets,” she explains.

in Logan Square and later moved to the

“Customers want to know the farmer.”

country, buying a farm in Huntley, where

Flowers are also available by order

she grew up. When Heidi went away

through Petals Farm.

to college, her mother developed

“I just love being out in the field,” she

an interest in flower gardening, took

says of her life as a flower farmer. As for

horticulture classes at College of

her product,“Flowers just seem to bring

DuPage and started growing flowers.

some sort of peace of mind.”

business, selling to local farmers markets. Heidi caught the love for both flowers and farmers markets, as she helped her mother, but pursued a career in state government. After her daughter was born, and, as she puts it,“9/11

Photos courtesy of Petals Farm

Her hobby soon turned into a small

happened,” her thoughts turned to finding a new career path. She and her husband decided to try to grow her mother’s startup into a bigger business that would support their family. Ong says, “We wanted to live a simple, happy life.” They bought their five-acre, in-town farm in Huntley and started there. As the business grew, they expanded their flower fields to her family’s original 24-acre farm. Sadly, her mother passed With locations in Elmhurst, Lombard, Hinsdale, Westmont and La Grange Park, Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts can help you match floral displays with the ideal container.

away three years ago, but her father is a partner in the business and her brother

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Designing with Flowers If you are inspired to try your own hand at flower arranging, Hart says the easiest way to start is with a hand-tied bouquet that you create outdoors while picking flowers and foliage from your garden. “Gather a bouquet in your hands, cut the stems and drop it in a vase, as opposed to creating something in a vase,” she advises. For more elaborate arrangements to use in your home, area florists make designs to order. At Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts in Hinsdale, store manager Allison Kapa observes that their clients’ design preferences depend on where they live. “In the Hinsdale area, they appreciate the lower style of arrangements . . . in cylinder vases or boxes,” she says. “Other areas want tall and airy styles.” The trend in flowers for home arrangements mirrors that of interior design, says Kapa. “The color trend is leaning more neutral — peaches, blues, greys, whites, and yellows — for the interior of homes, as well as all white or all whites and greens.” To keep floral arrangements fresh, Kapa recommends preparing your vase or container in advance with floral preservative packets and water. Then cut off any foliage that will be below the water line and give flower stems a fresh cut before placing them in the container. Change the water every few days to keep bacteria growth down and flowers looking fresh. Among her personal favorite flowers are hydrangeas and roses, along with snapdragons and larkspur “to give height to the arrangement.” At Andrew’s Garden in Wheaton, owner Andrew Parravano, who was trained in landscape design, finds his inspiration for floral design in the garden itself, especially the style of English cottage gardens. “The flower beds

Photos by Tonya Parravano, Andrew’s Garden

freshness of locally grown flowers means they should last a long time in a vase.

Andrew’s Garden in Wheaton offers flower-arranging workshops as well as advice to customers on combining store-bought flowers with garden cuttings.

themselves are very structured, but within that structure, it’s very loose. Flowers form their own boundary,” he explains. In floral arrangements, Parravano uses multiple layers, based on “how the colors and textures play off each other.” He sees a trend away from the traditional florist flowers like carnations and hybrid tea roses of the last 30 to 40 years to more “garden variety” flowers like coneflowers, black eyed susans and lilacs. Parravano personally selects all of the flowers, which are displayed in abundance

throughout the store, European style, rather than in the coolers found in most American shops. Parravano offers regular floral arranging workshops for novices, including one coming up on June 21 called Summer in Your Own Vase, where you can bring your own container and fill it with flowers under his tutelage. Private floral design parties are offered for small groups as well so you can share your love of flowers with friends. n

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Photo courtesy of Village of Hinsdale

Photo courtesy of Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce

HINSDALE A quaint, historic town that Norman Rockwell might well have imagined By Lynn Petrak

t’s been described in a glossy village booklet as a “unique combination of New England charm and wholesome Midwestern sensibility.” After spending time in Hinsdale, one can see how such a metaphorical mash-up applies to this western suburb of about 17,500 residents, 20 miles due west of Chicago. Hinsdale’s quaint downtown is lined with red brick storefronts and 19th century structures that really do look like something out of small-town Massachusetts, complete with a quaint shop named Yankee Peddler. At the same time, Hinsdale includes heartland kind of places like a neighborhood hardware store, a breakfast diner and a dog park where regulars are greeted by name and visitors are received with hearty, sincere offers of advice or assistance.

As for the wholesome part, you can see that on a warm summer afternoon, with kids romping around picnic tables outside a mom-and-pop stand that sells hot dogs and ice cream cones, or perhaps at a Little League ball game at one of many parks. It’s also on display at the village’s annual Fourth of July parade, which is about as Americana as can be. “Many people refer to Hinsdale as being very much like a Norman Rockwell painting,” says Heather Bereckis, superintendent of the parks and recreation department of the Village of Hinsdale. Distinctly Hinsdale While there are venerable businesses in downtown Hinsdale, “for rent” or “for sale” signs on storefronts don’t last long.

“Marcus Lemonis, an entrepreneur and star of CNBC’s hit reality series, “The Profit,”will be opening a new retail store in downtown Hinsdale this summer,” reports Anna Martch, economic development and communications specialist for the Village of Hinsdale. Still, there is something distinct about a town that has the motto Distinctly Hinsdale. Given its aesthetic appeal and the fact that its residents have some of the state’s highest median incomes and home values, it’s no surprise that this is a popular community in which to live and visit. A number of high-profile Chicago movers and shakers live largely under the radar here, from Chicago professional athletes and coaches, to television and radio news and entertainment professionals, to

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p a c a f T H o D o w t i

W D t r d s M l H s t S b f a b a b a

Photos courtesy of Village of Hinsdale

Photo courtesy of Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce Photo courtesy of Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce

presidents and CEOs of major companies and organizations. You might spot a local celebrity eating a down-home breakfast at an in-town restaurant or lending their fame to local fundraisers at places like The Community House, Wellness House, Hinsdale Racquet Club or maybe one of the local schools. Located on the eastern edge of DuPage County, Hinsdale offers a lot of things to do and see for visitors as well as residents. You’re not getting away to New England, exactly, but you are in for some charm and fun. Where Charm and History Intersect: Downtown Hinsdale If downtown Hinsdale looks like a throwback, or at least like a small town rich in history, it really is. Much of the downtown — mostly the portion on the south side of the railroad tracks along Metra’s Burlington Northern Santa Fe line — is listed as a National Register Historic District. Little things, like old-fashioned streetlights and awnings, underscore the historic feel of this part of the village. So, too, does a charming courtyard area between two blocks, where you can find a family-owned pizza spot (Giuliano’s Pizza), a consignment store, (The Courtyard, benefiting Wellness House of Hinsdale), and some amazing coffee drinks from baristas who know their way around an espresso machine (Café La Fortuna). There are stores and restaurants with

a bit of history to them as well. Fuller’s Home & Hardware, with a name that traces back to early settler Benjamin Fuller, has served the community for several years and is housed in a building that was home to another longtime hardware store, Soukup’s Hardware. Page’s Restaurant has been serving up tasty breakfast and lunch since 1981, and is known for its reliable traditional menu items as well as its crave-worthy house-made doughnuts. The red, white and blue pole in front of Nick’s Silver Shears Barber Shop is a village staple and, sure enough, the owner and barbers can listen as well as they can spin tales about goings-on in this western suburb. Another hub — and spoke, for that matter — of the community is Hartley’s Cycle Shoppe, which opened in 1958 and serves customers ranging from competitive bikers to kids getting their first two-wheelers to those who are looking for a tune-up. While there may be a lot of digital communication these days, you can’t beat paper for some things, which is why SassN-Class is still going strong after 30 years of purveying invitations and stationery. Another local retail institution is King Keyser Sporting Goods, which has long specialized in gear for skiing, though shoppers can find goods here for a variety of sports or even leisurely pursuits. With Hinsdale’s reputation as an upscale community, one expects and finds

boutique shopping and places for pampering. Boutiques include Alixandra Blue, J. McLaughlin, Hinsdale Furriers, Sweet William, My Sister Kate, and Stockholm Objects, to name a few. Those looking for distinctive gifts can find them at spots like the aforementioned Yankee Pedder, as well as ArtQuest Gallery, Phillips Flowers & Gifts, Jane’s Blue Iris, Hinsdale Flower Shop, and, for those who like a little or a lot of bling, Razny Jewelers. Consignment shops, including Kelsey Resale Boutique, carry good deals on higher end items. You don’t have to walk far to find places that offer personal improvement of one kind or another. Check out Reflexion Spa, Ten Friends Blow Dry & Style House, the Salon by David and William, and Zazu Salon & Day Spa. For makeup and skincare products, try Blue Mercury or Merle Norman Cosmetics & Day Spa. If it isn’t always easy to find parking in downtown Hinsdale, it’s a cinch to find some good food. “Hinsdale’s restaurant scene has grown in popularity for lunch and dinner, with a variety of choices,” says Eva Field, interim executive director of the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce. For traditional American fare, try Fuller House (see page 72), a family-friendly eatery and pub located in an old hardware store, or Harry and Eddie’s, newly opened in a former historic movie theater.

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HINSDALE MEMORIAL BUILDING

Photo by Ed Ahern

Resources

Those who want quicker fare or food to go can find it at pizza spot Altamura, hot dog and burger joint Franks on 1st, or bakery/café Einstein Bros. Bagels. Save room for the tasty (and beautiful) sweets at Toni Patisserie and Café.

Be Square: Gateway Square and Grant Square Hinsdale isn’t the biggest suburb — at about 4.6 square miles — so there aren’t malls or shopping strips like there are in other towns. That said, downtown Hinsdale isn’t where all the action is — you can also shop and dine at places in Gateway Square, near the north edge of town, and Grant Square. “Grant Square and Gateway Square shopping districts are or are almost at full capacity,” says Field, “and both have a great selection of retail and service businesses recreation, meeting rooms, Hinsdale Public Library Events that also offer a wide variety.” a theatre and services. n Total holdings: 155,650 n Farmers Market – Burlington The anchor of Grant Square is Kramer Park, 30 E. Chicago Ave., n Items checked out n Immanuel Hall – 302 S. 630 323-3952. Farm-fresh Foods, a Hinsdale supermarket since per year: 338,806 Grant St., 630 789-2600. The produce and products sold in an 1953. It’s one of those neighborhood former Immanuel Evangelical n Visitors per year: outdoor marketplace Mondays, and Reformed Church has a Approx. 250,000 grocery stores where you can find pantry Jun 4 – Oct 8, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Carpenter Gothic style exterior staples as well as unique items from and is listed on the National Museums n Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival Register of Historic Places. entrepreneurial food brands (including n Hinsdale History Museum – Burlington Park, 30 E. Chicago It is available for public use. 15 S. Clay St., 630 789-2600. An Ave., 630 323-3952. Annual art Door County apple and cherry desserts) 1874 Victorian period home show with over 125 juried artists, Recreation and a deli stocked with homemade foods, exhibiting hundreds of objects this year slated for Jun 9 –10. n Burns Field – Madison and that portray the lifestyle of from made-to-order sandwiches to hearty Hickory streets. A community Hinsdale’s early residents n Uniquely Thursdays potato casseroles and baked barbecue ribs. park with tennis courts, paddle Burlington Park, 30 E. Chicago tennis, soccer, a playground n R. Harold Zook Home Grant Square includes independent Ave., Hinsdale. 630 323-3952 and ice skating in winter. & Studio – 5941 S. County Line Musical event featuring local stores like Char Crews, Inc. for china, Rd., 630 789-2600. An English bands, a beer & wine tent and n Hinsdale Community crystal, silver and gifts, Caffray Jewellers Cotswold-style, once home to local vendors, held Thursdays, Swimming Pool – Hinsdale the famed Hinsdale architect, Jun 15 − Aug 24, 6 − 9 p.m. for jewelry and gifts, and J.C. Licht for Ave., 630 789-7098. A 50-meter showcasing his distinctive style. pool with diving boards, a drop paint, window treatments, wallpaper and n Pet Walk & 5K Run slide, a zero-depth wading Community Katherine Legge Memorial home décor, as well as a convenient in-town pool, water features and a n Robert Crown Center Park, 5901 S. County Line Rd., sand play area. Walgreens. YiaYia’s Pancake House & 630 323-0251. Hinsdale Humane for Health Education Society’s run and pet walk, with 451 W. Eighth St., 630 323-7500. Restaurant serves up comfort food for n Katherine Legge Nonprofit organization offering a festival on June 3, 8 p.m. breakfast, while Burhop’s Seafood, a Memorial Park – 5901 S. community recreation, a theatre, County Line Rd., 630 789-7095. meeting rooms and social n Christmas Walk – Burlington longtime fixture, is known for its fresh The site of the historic Katherine Park, 30 E. Chicago Ave., services to people of all ages. seafood and prepared seafood items, like Legge Memorial Lodge, this 52 630 323-3952. A December acres of woodlands offers paths, lobster rolls, seafood salads and soups. event with yuletide fun, including n The Community House a playground, tennis courts, a visit from Santa and the lighting 451 W. 8th St., 630 323-7500. Gateway Square also has a mix of retail football and soccer fields. of the Christmas tree. A community center offering and food service, both new and longtime spots. Egg Harbor Café has been in this Il Poggiolo Ristorante, located in a and Wild Ginger. spot for nearly three decades, as has former stationery and school/office supply Chef Paul Virant, who owns Vie Calico Corners for fabric and home décor store serves up authentic, white-tablecloth in Western Springs, runs Vistro in and Prime ‘N Tender Meats. Other Italian fare, while sushi lovers nosh on downtown Hinsdale, which also uses dining choices include Hua Ting their favorite dishes at Nabuki, and fans Midwestern and locally sourced Restaurant for Asian food and Fox’s Pub of Chinese food flock to Jade Dragon ingredients in a family-friendly setting. for pizza. 66 JUNE 2018 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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O a t f a f J m B f o e t i c m c t o e “ h

Photo by Ed Ahern

Out and About: 4th of July Parade and Other Events Fitting for a town that’s been likened to a colonial-era village, Hinsdale is known for its 4th of July festivities, including an iconic parade that draws spectators from Hinsdale and nearby suburbs. “Our July 4 Parade and Festival is definitely the most popular and traditional event,” says Bereckis, adding that it’s a homecoming for many people as well. “Generations of families have been raised here and they enjoy participating in these long standing, traditional events together.” A highlight of the 4th of July parade is the arrival of the village fire truck carrying the parade grand marshal. Past marshals have included Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville, who hoisted the Stanley Cup from the truck in front of a roaring crowd. Summer is high season for outdoor events, and Hinsdale has a lot of them. “We also have a long-running tradition of holding Lunch on the Lawn once a month.

We do this in conjunction with the library and offer entertainment in Burlington Park during the lunch hour,” says Bereckis. Uniquely Thursday events featuring live music, food vendors and sponsor giveaways are held in Burlington Park from June through August, as is the annual Fine Arts Festival over the weekend of June 9 – 10. Hinsdale events are sponsored and hosted by various organizations, including the village, the Chamber

of Commerce and AMITA Health, which presents Unique Thursdays. “The Chamber hosts eight different events throughout the year that are coordinated to bring visitors to town,” says Field, citing happenings like the weekly Farmers Market on Mondays and sidewalk sales in July. Other anticipated events focus on food, including a beer and wine food pairing event on June 22 put on by the village with Blue Nose Brewery and Uncle Bub’s Catering. A Taco Tuesday event will be held on June 12 from 5 – 7 p.m., with free tacos provided by Azteca Catering Co., a guacamole demonstration and margaritas for the over-21 crowd. The Green Scene: Katherine Legge Memorial Park As a near western suburb, Hinsdale doesn’t have swaths of open farmland or interconnecting networks of trails as some farther-out communities do, but at least 132 acres here are devoted to park space

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Hinsdale

Photo courtesy of Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce

Statistical Snapshot Population 2016 population: 17,631 g Increase from 2010: 2.6% g Median age: 41 g 18 and under: 36% g 20 – 24: 4% g 25 – 34: 3% g 35 – 44: 13% g 45 – 54: 18% g 55 – 64: 13% g 65 and over: 13% g Male: 48.4% g Female: 51.6% g White: 88%* g African-American: 1%* g Asian: 9%* g Hispanic: 4%*

Income g Median household income: $163,558

g Graduate or professional degree: 39%

Housing g Total households: 5,571 g Family households: 85% g Avg. household size: 3 g Mean price for detached houses: $909,418

g Owner-occupied units: 4,665

g Renter-occupied units: 735 g Gross median rent: $1,785

Business/Employment Education gH igh school degree or higher: 98%

g B achelor’s degree or higher: 79%

and the lawns and parkways are decidedly well manicured. Katherine Legge Memorial Park (KLM Park for short) is a crown jewel of green space. It is popular for weddings

g Residents employed: 97% g Residents unemployed: 3% g Avg. travel time to work: 31 min * Population percentages are based on self-reporting, where individuals may report more than one ethnicity. Sources: 2015 U.S. Census, City-Data.com and usa.com

and special events, both on the grounds and in the grand circa-1927 Lodge. In fact, there’s a lot more than meets the eye at this space, says Bereckis. “There is a beautiful art sculpture bench near the

north pavilion, the historic Legge family gravesites sit behind the KLM Lodge, there’s an 18-hole disc golf course, and a nature-based playground sits on the south side near the traditional playground.” The park also has lacrosse fields, a sledding hill and platform tennis courts that stay open much of the year, even in freezing temperatures. Visitors bring their pets to the on-site dog park for canine socializing and exercise. Meanwhile, it might look like a charming cottage to passersby not familiar with the work of the designer, but the R. Harold Zook home and studio, relocated to the grounds of KLM Park from its original site on Oak Street, honors the famous architect who worked and lived in Hinsdale. Katherine Legge Memorial Park is the biggest, but not the only, park in town. Hinsdale has 19 parks under its purview that include open space as well as areas for sports like baseball, soccer and tennis.

DR. GIRGIS

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Photo by Ed Ahern

“Pickleball is actually the fastest growing sport in America, and we will soon have dedicated courts at Brook Park,” says Bereckis. For those who want to connect with nature, she suggests Ehret Park, which has a butterfly garden with a gazebo and trail connecting to Stough Park. Brush Hill is another green space, spanning four acres. Heart, Hub and Helping Hand: The Community House There is a house, set in a Hinsdale neighborhood, that is not like others in the area. Not because it isn’t grand or stunning, but because of its mission. For more than 70 years, The Community House in Hinsdale has provided social and recreation programs for people in Hinsdale and other nearby towns. It’s a gathering spot for private events as well as a host of fundraisers for organizations near and dear to local residents and community leaders.

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Related Disorders, which offers support services and therapy for young people with autism and related disorders. As part of its effort to raise awareness, the organization runs events like an annual Walk the Walk for Autism in the spring.

The Community House, as its name suggests, is at the heart of this town in other ways. Local theater companies like the in-house Community House Players and Stage Door Fine Arts put on plays and musicals in the facility’s theater. The center offers all kinds of programs for adults and children. It is also home base for social services including The Counseling Center and Charlie’s Gift Center for Autism and

Past, Present: Hinsdale Historical Society Sure, you can walk around downtown Hinsdale, an area on the National Register of Historic Places, but you can get a few more intriguing history lessons with a walking tour of its historic homes. There’s an app for that, too. The Hinsdale Historical Society, with the Village of Hinsdale’s Historic Preservation Commission, recently launched an app (see page 12) that serves as a virtual guide to local architecture. To roll out the app with a splash, or at least with a scoop, the Historical Society is throwing a launch party/ice cream social on June 3 at Dips and Dogs in downtown Hinsdale — which

5/22/18 12:17 PM

TOWN FOCUS

Check us out online

westsuburbanliving.net

Hinsdale

at first looks like a cute hot dog stand but is actually historically significant, in that it is located in a Zook-designed structure. If you’d like a real brick and mortar tour, you can visit the Hinsdale History Museum, open to the public on weekends and by appointment. In addition, you can learn more about local architecture, from masters like Zook and others, at the Anderson Architecture Center in Immanuel Hall, which is also home to the Historical Society’s architectural archives.

a new 16,000-sq-ft facility, nearly triple the size of its current location. “Besides the physical growth, this move allows us to grow our outreach and programming, thus saving even more pets’ lives,” says Van Winkle. “We will have the space to provide medical treatment right on site. We will be expanding our humane education programs, we can offer many more obedience classes, our Pet Therapy program will grow and, of course, we will vastly increase our number of adoptions.”

Get Well: Health Systems in Hinsdale Hinsdale has one of the area’s oldest hospitals, founded as Hinsdale Sanitarium more than a century ago by a married couple who were Seventh Day Adventists and physicians and who wanted to open a facility in the then-outskirts of Chicago. Today, that site is known as AMITA Health Hinsdale, offering a spectrum of health care services and programs. AMITA also runs a Cancer Institute and Outpatient Center near Ogden Avenue. That part of town is home to the EdwardElmhurst Health Center and Immediate Care, along with several private health care providers across many specialties. While they provide health care, such organizations are also active locally, through sponsorships and a presence at various activities. “Healthcare facilities have been an asset for the community on many levels. They are engaged and involved with chamber opportunities by sponsoring events and getting to know the Hinsdale community,” says Field.

Other Distinctly Hinsdale Highlights • The Hinsdale Community Pool is a public facility run by the Parks and Recreation Department, with a swimming pool, wading pool, diving pool with drop slides and diving boards, and a bathhouse. • It may look landlocked, but there is actually a 34-acre lake in Hinsdale, complete with its own Yacht Club. The Golfview Hills community of some 300 homes is built around Johnson’s Slough, a fish-stocked lake that is dotted with sailboats, kayaks and pontoon boats. • Hinsdale Central High School ranks as one of the top high schools in the state. The Red Devil sports teams are highly competitive, and the football team’s games under the lights are a fall tradition. • A new Hinsdale Middle School is currently under construction, set to open in 2019. “The new middle school will also include a two tier parking deck to add additional parking to customers in downtown Hinsdale,” says Martch. • If you grew up in the western suburbs, chances are you went to the Robert Crowne Center for health education programs. While the field trip tradition is going away with the recent sale of the building, the Center continues its outreach program with experts visiting local schools to share information and education. • The Hinsdale Public Library first opened in 1983. Set on a hill in the stately Hinsdale Memorial Building, the library offers a full slate of programs and events in addition to print and digital resources for all ages. n

Pet Cause: Hinsdale Humane Society To be sure, there are a lot of good causes and not-for-profit organizations in Hinsdale. One of the most beloved is the Hinsdale Humane Society, a 65-year institution. “Our reach is far and wide and we pride ourselves on being a regional humane society, which maximizes the help we can provide by being an important part of many different communities,” says executive director Tom Van Winkle. This fall, the Hinsdale Humane Society — and its animal guests — will move into

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DINING |

REVIEWS

LISTINGS

CHEERS WINE COLUMN

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Cadence Kitchen

RESTAURANT OPENINGS

RECENTLY OPENED

Cadence Kitchen & Co.

ood beats and great

with upscale food. Since music, from

with a seven-ingredient house salad — or

eats is how chef-owner

classics to blues to modern, is part of the

the candied bacon version.

Todd Davies describes

experience, the acoustics are top notch,

Cadence Kitchen, newly

helped by walls artfully covered with

ribeye with short rib poutine, gorgonzola

opened at 5101 Mochel

wood salvaged from seven barns, soft

and overnight tomatoes. Also popular

oriental rugs and stay-a-while couches.

are the honey-mustard salmon, the wild

Dr. in Downers Grove (630 442-7631). Davies and co-owner Tim Canning,

The food at Cadence is party to the

Entrées include Steak Fattie, a 12-oz

mushroom risotto, and the seasonally prepared octopus.

who shares the chef’s hat, dreamed for 25

popular farm-to-table movement, with

years of creating this unique space. Once

locally sourced ingredients on a seasonally

the site of Lemon Tree Grocer, the building

rotated menu. Small plates, like the beer

and more on the flower-decked patio, a

has been redesigned into a gathering

braised mussels or the roasted Brussels

perfect spot to choose from a medley of

place that combines upbeat ambiance

sprouts with duck confit, are nicely paired

house-crafted desserts.

Cadence has inside seating for 175

– Anne Knudsen

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5/20/18 9:47 PM

GoOd food

By Lynn Petrak

Fuller House A bustling neighborhood eatery in downtown Hinsdale

here’s a lot of history to Fuller House, even if the restaurant opened just a few years ago. The name is a tip of the cap to early settler Benjamin Fuller, whose descendants maintain ties to the Hinsdale community. The two-story eatery is housed inside what was once a veritable retail institution, Soukup’s Hardware. Later, the front part of the building became Fuller’s Home & Hardware. Pieces of the past serve as part of the décor, including reclaimed wood walls, vintage barrels, heavy beams and thick ropes dangling between floors connected by a dramatic spiral staircase. But walk by Fuller House on a summer night and you’ll see that this place is very much in the here and now. A glance inside the large front window shows people packed around the expansive bar, catching up with friends and neighbors. Guests spill outside, gathered at tables set along the front sidewalk or in the charming beer garden, complete with picnic-style tables set under trees strung with old-time light bulbs. Inside, an inventive menu is regularly tweaked. A welcome addition is Nashville hot chicken sliders, three mini sandwiches with just the right amount of heat. Indeed, starters and sharable dishes are

popular here, especially the cast-iron baked spinach and artichoke dip, the cauliflower bites, and a seriously big woodfired pretzel twist accompanied by a trio of dipping sauces. The large pizza oven behind the bar bakes a standout arugula prosciutto pizza, which has a hint of lemon that puts it over Wood-fired pretzel twist with a trio of dipping sauces the top in flavor. One of the newer pizzas is a fire-roasted elote corn A small choice of entrées includes an pizza infused with cilantro and lime. ancho-rubbed New York strip steak, a soba Burgers are on point, too, including chicken bowl and a salmon and quinoa dish. choices like the Day Into Night burger, Much of the menu is devoted to foods which comes with a sunny-side-up fried egg, that evoke comfort — and true to the artisan bacon, stout-infused onions, cheddar restaurant name, a fuller flavor — but this and garlic mayonnaise on a fluffy briôche is also a great spot for salads. Lots of color roll; and the Red Devil, named for the and good-for-you ingredients arrive in bowls Hinsdale Central High School sports teams teeming with fixings, including an alwaysand packing some heat with jalapenos, reliable chopped salad, a grain and kale cheddar-jack cheese and habanero mayo. salad, and a salad with grilled salmon. Burgers and other sandwiches, such If you’re up for dessert, the banana as the tasty brisket grilled cheese and jerk bourbon pudding, served in a glass jar chicken, come with a choice of house-made layered with vanilla pudding, banana slices, chips or hand-cut fries. The truffle-parmesan crushed vanilla wafers and bourbon fries and fries paired with the restaurant’s caramel sauce and topped with fresh vanilla signature “animal sauce” may cost a buck or bean whipped cream, provides spoonfuls two extra, but are well worth the indulgence. of pure delight. n

QUICK FACTS

Fuller House

35 E. First St., Hinsdale 630 568-5466 www.fullerhouse.com

Recommended Dishes

Cost

Hours

Extras

Wood-fired pizzas;

Appetizers: $9 – $12

M - Thur: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Sidewalk/courtyard

Nashville hot chicken

Entrées: $16 – $21

F – Sat : 11 a.m. – midnight

dining; extensive bar

sliders; salads

Pizzas: $12 – $15

Sun: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

and cocktail menu

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DIning NW DUPAGE & UPPER FOX VALLEY

South Barrington NE DUPAGE & NW COOK

Schaumburg Bartlett

Itasca

Bloomingdale

South Elgin

Glen St. Charles Ellyn West Chicago

Geneva

90 294

Elmhurst

Oak Park 290

CENTRAL DUPAGE

Batavia North Aurora

Lisle

Willowbrook

Bolingbrook

SW DUPAGE & LOWER FOX VALLEY Plainfield

La Grange

Oak Brook Hinsdale

355

Naperville Oswego

190

290

Wheaton

Aurora

Photo courtesy of Murray Bros. Caddyshack

West Dundee

n n n n Recently Opened

Romeoville

Burr Ridge Lemont

294

SE DUPAGE & SW COOK

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

Murray Bros. Caddyshack Comfort food in a golf and movie-themed sports bar atmosphere in Rosemont

he recent opening of

and dinner, with a seating

Brussels Sprouts and Fig &

Murray Bros. Caddyshack

capacity of 240. Entrées are

Prosciutto Flat Bread. Among

priced from $10 to $29.

sandwiches are the Chicago

at 9546 Balmoral Ave. in

New twists on old American favorites served by seasoned professionals in a stylish ambiance. Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 14. 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 5-10, F-Sat 4:30-9:30, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Recommended n Allgauer’s: 3003 Corporate West Dr, Lisle; in Hilton Lisle/Naperville. 630 245-7650. American fare with a modern twist, featuring locally sourced, dry-aged steaks, chops and seafood. Capacity: 196 at 44 tables. Yrs in bus: 35. Chef’s Choice: Potatocrusted halibut. Entrée prices: $25- $44; lunch menu $9-$18. Extras: Bar, banquets, breakfast, lunch and seafood buffets. M–F 6:30 am–10 pm. Sat–Sun 7 am–10 pm. Reservations: Recommended. n ANYWAYS RESTAURANT & PUB: 5 E Roosevelt Rd,

Oakbrook Terrace. 630 932-9323. Classic neighborhood pub with American cuisine. Capacity: 200 at 45 tables. Yrs in bus: 22. Chef’s Choice: Izzy’s jambalaya pasta and Certified Angus burgers. Entrée prices: $7-$15. Extras: Bar, carry-out, banquets, outdoor dining, kids’ menu. M-Th 11:30 am-1 am, F-Sat 11:30 am-2 am, Sun noon-1 am. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 304 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, 630 351-8870. n ARROWHEAD RESTAURANT & BAR: 26W151

Butterfield Rd, Wheaton. 630 510-5070. American fare and premium spirits with panoramic golf course views. Capacity: 120 inside, 60 on patio. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Barrel Cut Ribeye. Entrée prices: $16-$40. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private rooms, carry-out, weekly and daily specials, 15 HDTVs. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11 am-midnight, Sun 10-9.

Dog, plus various burgers.

gives diners an opportunity

food we serve in a family-

The kitchen also serves up

to enjoy comfort food in a

friendly environment,” says

Crab-Crusted Blackened

first-class sports bar atmosphere.

co-founder Andy Murray.

Redfish and Baby Back Ribs.

As teens, many of the six

The first Murray Bros.

The well-stocked,

Murray brothers worked as

Caddyshack debuted in 2001

full-service bar dispenses

caddies, inspiring Brian Doyle

in St. Augustine, Fla., home of

signature cocktails. Some

Murray to write the classic

the World Golf Hall of Fame.

30 LCDs capture televised

The menu offers a variety

golf comedy, “Caddyshack,” starring Bill Murray.

n ADELLE’S: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.

“Our guests like the comfort

Rosemont (847 443-3673),

The restaurant serves lunch

sporting events. The venue

of starters, such as Crispy

can also accommodate

Potato Golf Balls, Buffalo

private parties.

n ATWATER’S: 15 S River Ln, Geneva; in Herrington

Inn & Spa. 630 208-8920. Eclectic American cuisine with a seasonal menu in a European-style atrium 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. n BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO: 2752

Showplace Dr, Naperville. 630 428-8500. Classic and contemporary Italian dining in a casual setting. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 10. Chef’s Choice: Black fettuccine with lobster & wild mushrooms. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Exhibition kitchen, bar, private parties. M-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat11:30-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 20560 N Rand Rd, Deer Park, 847 438-1850. n CATCH 35: 35 S Washington St, Naperville. 630 717-3500. A deep and interesting variety of seafood and premium steaks in an uptown atmosphere. Capacity: 192 (including bar seating: 247. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: Chilean sea bass. Entrée prices: $16-$50. Extras: Bar, private parties, outdoor dining, valet parking T-Sat. Lunch M-Sat 11:30-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.

– T.R. Witom

2. Chef’s Choice: Carciofi fritti alla Romona (fried artichokes) and homemade taglierini pasta. Extras: Chef’s counter dining, patio, handcrafted cocktails, private dining, valet parking. Reservations: Yes. n CITYGATE GRILLE: 2020 Calamos Ct, Naperville. 630 718-1010. Fine dining, contemporary American fare in a steakhouse atmosphere. Capacity: 220. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: 20-oz bone-in rib eye in Bordelaise sauce. Entrée prices: $18-$50, Avg: $25. Extras: Live entertainment, 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 DELL RHEA’S CHICKEN BASKET: 645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried chicken in a 1940s-style Route 66 roadhouse featuring video gaming. Capacity: 225 at 40 tables. Yrs in bus: 72. Chef’s Choice: 50/50 burger and breakfast burger. Entrée prices: $10-$20, Avg: $13. Extras: Carry-out, bar, catering, over 50 craft style beers. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10

n CHE FIGATA: 2155 City Gate Ln., Naperville

n EMILIO’S TAPAS BAR: 4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside. 708 547-7177. Spanish tapas in an authentic countryside atmosphere. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 29. Chef’s Choice: Paella and datiles con bacon. Entrée prices: $6-$23. Extras: Bar, patio, carry-out, Tapeo bites menu 4:30-6:30 M-Fri, live entertainment Fridays, catering. M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.

630 579-3210. Expected to open in early May. Authentic Italian restaurant and marketplace characterized by fresh, homemade dishes in an open space with views into the working kitchen. Capacity: 200 (inside); 50 (outside). Mths in bus:

n FOXFIRE: 17 W State St, Geneva. 630 232-1369. Casual steakhouse with downtown atmosphere. Capacity: 175. Yrs in bus: 14. Chef’s Choice: Bordone New York Strip. Entrée prices: $18-$46, lunch

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GOOD FOOD

By Emily Belden

Il Vicolo Trattoria Italian cuisine and a cozy ambiance in Oak Park

l Vicolo translates from Italian to English as “the alley.” And with this restaurant’s prime downtown Oak Park location set directly adjacent to a charming street-like walkway and outdoor space — adorned with bistro tables and strings of overhead lights — it’s easy to see how appropriate the nomenclature is. The comprehensive menu is enough to transport diners straight to Napoli. From an array of antipasti selections, thin crust pizzas and homemade pastas, to Neapolitan influenced meat and seafood entrées and an assortment of sweet finishes, the menu has classic Italian cuisine covered. As servers descend on the table to bring warm bread and olive oil, be sure to look over the wine list and settle in. A glass of Italian wine — Chianti or Sangiovese — will bring out a true European ambiance. On a nice night, splurge on a bottle, priced at a very reasonable $15 – $25, and linger over your sipping selections al fresco. The Grigliata Mista di Pesce is an antipasti that showcases Il Vicolo’s command of fresh seafood. It features grilled calamari, shrimp and octopus over mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette. If you are only going to opt for one

appetizer, try the Calamari Fritti, which has a light, tempura-style breading and is tender, not chewy. Neapolitan-style pizzas, ranging from traditional Margherita to Prosciutto e Arugula, feature a light crust and paper-thin pie. Diners can substitute for fresh buffola Antipasto plate mozzarella for $6 and experience a true taste of Italy. with strawberries, apples and walnuts — and While the pizza selections a side of homemade meatballs. certainly offer a slice of authenticity, the The dessert menu includes photos, handmade pastas are not to be overlooked. making it nearly impossible to resist ordering “People come back for our 8 Finger Cavatelli,” one of the many signature sweets. Chocolate said our delightful server. This dish boasts lovers, the lava cake is calling your name. pillowy-soft homemade ricotta cavatelli It’s a warm soufflé which takes about noodles, complete with tasty but mild five minutes to prepare. Served with a scoop sausage, crunchy green peas and a rich, of creamy vanilla gelato, it’s well worth the tangy tomato cream sauce. The portion wait. Or, for something more traditional size is just right, even allowing for a bit and crunchy, opt for the cannoli. The of leftovers to be enjoyed the next day. filling is some of the best around and it’s Entrée options also include a variety not assembled until ordered, keeping the of steak, veal, fish and chicken dishes. The shell extra crispy. Pollo Vesuvio is a classic chicken breast On weekends, Il Vocolo features live with white wine sauce, served with peas entertainment. Reservations are accepted and roasted potatoes. For fewer carbs, grab and parking is available on the street as well a summer-ready Il Vicolo Salad — topped as in a nearby public garage. 

QUICK FACTS

Il Vicolo Trattoria

116 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park 708 386-5801 www.ilvicolotrattoria.com

RECOMMENDED DISHES

COST

HOURS

EXTRAS

Tortino De Melanzane

Appetizers: $12 – $17

M - Sat: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Outdoor patio seating;

Penne Prosciutto

Pasta: $15 – $20

Sun: 4 – 10 p.m.

full bar; reservations

e Piselli; Tiramisu

Entrées: $19 – $37

recommended.

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DINING $9+. Extras: Bar (open later), outdoor dining, daily specials, carry-out, bar menu, wine list. M-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes, recommended.  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: 2. Chef’s Choice: Buffalo shrimp. Entrée prices: $11-$20. Extras: TVs, sidewalk seating, full bar, carry-out, beer garden. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 11-10.  GIA MIA: 106 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 480-2480.

Old-world Neapolitan pizza in a rustic restaurant. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Handcrafted meatballs. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Bar, TVs, carry-out, large wine menu, local sourcing, brick oven. M-T 11-9, W-Sat 11-10. Reservations: No, but call-ahead seating available. Additional location at 13 N Third St. Geneva, 630 405-5544.  HARRY CARAY’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE:

70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; inside the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3400. Classic Italian steakhouse in a sports-themed atmosphere. Capacity: 550. Yrs in bus: 10. 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.  HOLY MACKEREL!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3444. Fresh spin on fish house classics in a vintage décor. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 10. 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.  MICHAEL JORDAN’S RESTAURANT: 1225

W 22nd St, Oak Brook. 312 455-8626. Refined American restaurant and bar featuring premium quality, seasonal ingredients prepared in an active, open-view kitchen. Mths in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Chilean Sea Bass in Maque Choux sauce. Entrée prices: $11-$30. Extras: Full bar, TVs, Wi-Fi, catering, carry-out, valet, outdoor seating. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.

Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs

 PARKER’S RESTAURANT & BAR: 1000 31st St,

Downers Grove. 630 960-5700. Casually elegant restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Cedar-planked halibut and charcoalgrilled center cut pork chop. Entrée prices: $14-$65, Avg: $32. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private dining, live jazz music in lounge Tu-Sat. M-Th 11:30-10, F 11:30-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-8:30. Reservations: Recommended.  PATIO RESTAURANT: 7440 S Kingery Hwy

(Rt 83), Darien. 630 920-0211. Casual American fare, specializing in BBQ ribs. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 25. Chef’s Choice: BBQ ribs. Entrée prices: $7-$22. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering, drive-up window. 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.  PLANK BAR & KITCHEN: 120 Water St, Naperville.

630 778-9676. Upscale bar serving tastes of local food in a rustic modern atmosphere. Capacity: 75 plus 12 at bar. Yrs in bus:1. Chef’s Choice: Fish tacos and flatbread. Entrée prices: $12-$25. Extras: Room service, covered parking, valet parking. Breakfast M-F 6:30-10:30, Sat-Sun 7:30-11:30; Dinner M-Sun 4:30-11. Reservations: Yes.  PRONTO’S: 2260 Bloomingdale Rd, Glendale Heights. 630 980-7383. Pizza and Italian fare.

483 Spring Road www.robertosristorante.com

•

Elmhurst

630.279.8486

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cheers

DIning

By Buzz Brandt

Yrs in bus: 12. Entrée prices: $5-$18. Extras: Pastry chef, bar, carry-out, delivery, TVs, live music. M-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 2-9. Reservations: Accepted.

Touriga Nacional

n Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria: 483 Spring

Rd, Elmhurst. 630 279-8486. Italian cuisine served in a romantic, neighborhood atmosphere. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 55. Chef’s Choice: Fish entrées. Entrée prices: $14-$44. Extras: Carry-out, bar, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly. M-Th 11-11, F 11am-midnight, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-10. Reservations: Yes.

Portugal’s signature big bold red

f the more than 250 grape varietals native to Portugal, Touriga Nacional is by far the stand-out star. The backbone of some of the world’s finest vintage Ports, the grape has been increasingly used as the base for first-rate standalone table wines. The best examples derive from the northern wine regions of Dão and the Douro Valley. Douro is the most abundant producer of Touriga, where the rocky schist soils, low rainfall and searing summer heat stress the vines to produce dense, bold and intensely concentrated wines. In the Dão region, thought to be the varietal’s birthplace, the soils are composed of sand and granite and the altitude tempers the summer temperatures, resulting in lighter-styled wines that are higher in acidity and more floral and mineral-driven. In both regions, this is a difficult and demanding grape to grow. While the vines produce thick-skinned blue-black berries that are deep in color and prodigiously flavorful and aromatic, the clusters and grapes are quite small — even tiny — resulting in exceptionally low yields. Because the vines are

quite vigorous in producing foliage, they require extensive pruning for maximum sunlight and air exposure to the fruit. Vintners commonly blend Touriga Nacional with indigenous Portuguese varietals like Touriga Franca or Tinto Roriz (Tempranillo), but it is available in stand-alone bottlings as well. These wines are dry, full-bodied and complex, with a bouquet of violets plus blue and black fruits and hints of spices and cocoa. The palate shows off flavors of black cherries, blackberries, blueberries, black currants, plums and black pepper that merge with nuances

of mint, dark chocolate, wildflowers and sometimes minerality. Aging in oak barrels can contribute notes of vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg. Because of their firm tannins, abundant acidity and elevated alcohol levels (as high as 15 percent) these wines are excellent candidates for long-term cellaring. Touriga Nacional is just beginning to emerge on the international stage. The biggest plantings are in Australia and New Zealand, while smaller quantities can be found in Spain, South America, South Africa, California, Washington State, Virginia and Texas. n

Expert wine recommendations •SIMON LAMBERT The Chicago Wine Co. 845 N. Central Ave., Wood Dale. (630 594-2972) 2015 Kumeu River Chardonnay (New Zealand) $52. This complex wine starts with a nose of lemon, grapefruit, peach and hazelnuts with hints of minerals and lime, chased by a palate of citrus and ripe stone fruits and balanced by bracing acidity. 2013 Elvio Cogno Barolo Cascina Nuovo (Italy) $48.

In this 100 percent Nebbiolo, a nose of black cherries, strawberries and wildflowers greets a palate of cherries, raspberries, spices, pepper and tobacco. Firm tannins lead to a long, lingering finish. •Tank Zayed Leo’s Wines and Spirits 3018 Hobson Rd., Woodridge (630 963-2044) 2015 Tooth and Nail The Possessor Cabernet Sauvignon (Calif.) $31. This Cabernet/Merlot

blend treats the nose with scents of black cherries, currants and hints of oak and herbs, while flavors of blackberries, plums and raspberries abound. 2014 MooBuzz Pinot Noir (Calif.) $17. A smoothdrinking,light Pinot boasting an abundance of plums, raspberries, strawberries and cherries, with notes of earth, mocha and spice. Low tannins and a velvety finish.

n Santo Cielo: 123 Water St, Naperville. 630 323-0700. Elevated Mexican cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients. Chef’s Choice: Charred Spanish octopus. Entrée prices: $7-$24. Extras: Full bar, open-view kitchen. Mon-Thur 11-10, F-Sat 11-11. Reservations: Accepted. Affiliated with Bien Trucha in Geneva and Quiubo in Naperville. n SEARED FINE DINING: 400 Park Blvd, Itasca;

inside the Western Hotel Chicago Northwest. 630 773-4000. Elegant and elevated fine dining centered around fresh seafood and steaks in a recently renovated space. Capacity: 67. Yrs in bus: 1. Entrée prices: $35-$49. Extras: Private room, full bar. M-Sat 5-11 n SIXTYFOUR: A WINE BAR: 123 Water St, Naperville. 630 780-6464. Wine bar serving hand-crafted small plates and featuring 64 wines by the glass as well as 64 local and regional craft beers. Capacity: 130. Chef’s Choice: Grilled Hanger Steak. Entrée prices: $12-$15. Extras: Private events, beer & wine, outdoor seating, expert sommeliers, TVs, Wi-Fi. Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11. n Sushi House: 830 E Ogden Ave, Westmont.

630 920-8948. Sushi, sashimi and Japanese fare. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 22. Chef’s Choice: Cracker roll. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Carry-out, catering, delivery, private parties. M-F 11:30-10, Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 950 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, 630 968-0088; 1107 Lake St,Oak Park, 708 660-8899; and 281 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630 221-8986. n Sushi UKAI: 120 W Calendar Ct, La Grange.

708 354-8899. Modern interpretation of classic Japanese dishes and sushi. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Fresh sushi rolls. Entrée prices: $14-$27. M-Sat 11-10, Sun, Noon-9:30. Reservations: No. n Suzette’s: 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: 17. 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. T-Th 7 am - 9 pm, F-Sat 7 am - 10 pm, Sun 8 am - 2 pm. Reservations: Recommended. n VINTAGE 53: 162 S First St, St. Charles.

630 549-0423. Small plates, flatbreads and charcuterie plus 100 wines served in a rustic-industrial ambiance. Capacity: 65, 10 on patio. Mths in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: BBQ pork belly. Entrée prices: $15-$20. Extras: Live music, private events, outdoor seating, free Wi-Fi, happy hour. T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-midnight. n YORK TAVERN: 3702 York Rd, Oak Brook. 630 323-5090. The oldest, continuously operating restaurant in DuPage County, serving burgers and American fare in a casual pub atmosphere. 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.

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Charitable Events of Note

Photos by John Reilly Photography

SCENE&SEEN

Lauren Trimarco of Naperville, and Renee Penno and Julann Ferguson, both of Wheaton

Bob and Melinda Rosebraugh of Wheaton

Jeanne and Bill Hardy of Hinsdale Caitlyn Ryan, John Ryan, Stacie Ryan, Sarah Ryan and Joey Ryan, all of Villa Park

CATHOLIC CHARITIES RECENTLY HOSTED its 27th Annual Blossoms of Hope

Nicole Carvelli of Wheaton and Sherry Carvelli of Oak Brook Connie Rowe of Elmhurst and Sandy Kohler of Oak Brook

Brunch at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. Over 900 guests enjoyed brunch, a silent auction and a day of celebrating hope. The event raised $110,000 for Catholic Charitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) program, which provides support to families devastated by the loss

Photos by Miss Motley Photography

of a loved one to suicide.

FAMILY SHELTER SERVICE RECENTLY held its annual fundraising gala, Free to Fly, at the Drake Oak Brook, raising over $280,000 to help DuPage victims of domestic violence. The money raised from this fundraiser enables Family Shelter Service to live up to its pledge to provide better, faster and more equal access to services for the adults and children in the community who are living in fear due to domestic violence.

Bob and Nancy Stewart of Wheaton

Beth and Pete Bensen of Downers Grove RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF CHICAGOLAND AND NORTHWEST INDIANA held its Annual Gala on May 5. The Kentucky Derby-themed

Photos courtesy of Manav Seva Mandir

Photos by Alison Thompson Photography

Illinois State Representative David S. Olsen and Family Shelter Service Advancement Director Lauren DeSimone

event at The Geraghty in Chicago attracted more than 750 attendees decked out in their Derby best. A record of more than $1 million was raised to help families with critically ill children stay together.

Emily Ory of Naperville, and Suzy Cerra and Joe LoPresto, both of Warrenville

Jim and Debbi Krillenberger of Hinsdale

Charlie and Heidi Stone of West Chicago

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Photos courtesy of DuPagePads

Photos by John Reilly Photography

Amy Barnshaw of Winfield, Lori Chatten of Maple Park, Dawn Schoening of St. Charles, Leah Kulczewski of Wheaton and Jeannine Adams of Winfield

Dave Swiston of West Chicago, Dan Dukats of Darien, Andy Swiston of Glen Ellyn, Mike Black of Villa Park and Stephanie DiLillo of Hoffman Estates

TWENTY-NINE TEAMS AND OVER 150 ATTENDEES recently gathered at the Fox Bowl in Wheaton for DuPagePads’ annual bowling competition. Teams competed for the top three fundraiser trophies and the top three team bowling scores. The event raised over $35,000, the most in its 16-year history, for programs and services to help people move from “a pad on the floor to a key in the door.” DuPagePads is the largest provider of services for the homeless in DuPage County. Its solution to ending homelessness is to provide housing, coupled with support services and employment

NEARLY 500 GUESTS GATHERED amidst the silhouettes of city skyscrapers for the 32nd Annual Alexian Brothers Ball de Fleur at Lincoln Park Zoo on May 5. With the theme Safari Under the Stars, the evening raised $800,000 to help transform the bodies, minds and spirits of community members recovering from substance abuse and behavioral

Vicki and Matt Wakely, AMITA Sr. VP and Chief Communications Officer, of Lombard

Photos by Dave Pflederer courtesy of the Alexian Brothers Foundation

health disorders.

Chad Pedigo, director of Community Engagement, Bridge Communities and Judy Hsu, ABC 7 News anchor, of Hinsdale

Photos by Colleen Abrahamovich of Stolen Moment Photography

to restore hope and transform lives.

Margie Tarpey of Naperville and Georgene Wilson of Wheaton BRIDGE COMMUNITIES RECENTLY HOSTED ITS 8TH ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON, Celebrating Women, Transforming Lives, at Danada House in Wheaton, to honor women and philanthropy in DuPage County. More than 300 people attended the event

Mike and Mary Alice Benoit of Bartlett

and raised more than $90,000, with the proceeds to be used for the Bridge Communities Transitional Housing Program, designed the help connect

Photos courtesy of Manav Seva Mandir

homeless families to a better future.

MANAV SEVA MANDIR in Bensenville recently held its 25th Annual Silver Jubilee Fundraiser. Manav Seva Mandir is a not-for-profit organization focused on serving the religious and cultural needs of the Hindu Community in Bensenville and the surrounding suburbs. An estimated 500 guests attended the fundraiser, and $150,000 was raised to be used for building maintenance and upgrades.

Front row: Dr. Panna Barai, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Dr. Shirish Shah and Bensenville Chief of Police Frank Kosman. Back row: Chairman of Mana Seva Mandir Pradip Patel, Bensenville Village President Frank DeSimone and Lisa DeSimone. WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JUNE 2018 79

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Last Word

By Michele Weldon

The Unwritten Law of Home Repair One project will inevitably lead to another, then another, and it’s never enough

t’s never just one and done. I know this intuitively, so it is silly for me to be consistently surprised. No matter what the project is in your home, under your home or outside your home, the laws of renovation and repair state that you will almost always have to fix something completely unrelated as a result. This is the truth for a number of reasons. The first is that the nearby, adjoining, adjacent or opposite parts of the house will look shabby by comparison as a result of the focused update. The second is that fixing one thing shows that many other unrelated things are broken. All you have to do is look under the floorboards, the eaves, the gutters or the deck and you will find myriad horrors. The third is that whoever is doing the repairs says it will be easy, quick and worth the extra money. Since we are doing this, why not that? And you fall for it. Completely. It is summertime across the western suburbs and the fixing up is easy. Or at least it’s warm enough to fix the outside without fear of a snowstorm. What I have discovered — and at this moment a ladder is pressed up against my window with someone attached to it — is that whoever you hire for whatever you need will find 10 additional atrocities that need your urgent fiscal attention. This from a homeowner who only wanted the cornice over the front door replaced. The project has morphed into an external transformation of my home befitting a before-and-after on HGTV’s “Flip or Flop.” None of this had I budgeted for, yet all of which really did need to be addressed

“It’s summertime across the western suburbs and the fixing up is easy.” immediately to avoid bigger problems down the road, according to my contractor. Please understand, I am the kind of homeowner that, when informed by the chimney sweep that the remnants of an animal stuck in the flue could be removed for an extra sum, paused for a long while. When I later told him that I had decided to wait on carting off the carcass until a later date, he said, “Did I not tell you there is a dead animal stuck in your chimney?” I snapped out of it in time to sign a bigger check. A keeping-up-with-the-Joneses type is not who I am. I am not in a race to perfection with folks who present as flawless. They are the ones one who add a snappy outdoor kitchen because their neighbor installed a fridge off the deck. I am not at all competitive in that way, primarily because I pull myself out of the running on purpose. I would love — maybe — to have the fanciest house on the block. I just have neither the time nor the money to make that dream real. Yes, a fire pit, cushy outdoor sofas and a gazebo would be fantastic summer additions. But for now I must find my bliss on the patio set I bought on sale at Home Depot, festooned with the outdoor pillows in bright colors for distraction. Alas, I confess I am all about denying what needs to be fixed if I cannot fix it. This denial and delay process has been a key fixture in my life as a homeowner.

A neighbor pointed out to me recently a few loose shingles on my slate roof. I did my best to appear astonished. I knew all about it, of course, but I also got an estimate and decided my next book needs to be a best seller so I can fix it. The furnace was turning itself on sporadically all winter — it got down to 60 degrees many days before I finally bit the bullet and called the heating and cooling company. “Thirty one years is a pretty good long time for a furnace to last,” the repairman told me. I was hoping for 32. I understand taking pride in a domicile that is in tip-top shape and that sense of calm when you can pull in the driveway with confidence that the garage will not tumble down around you. (I speak from experience here.) There is no covering up of holes or leaks or cracks. No dim lights out of fear of exposing just how broken it all might be. But I also know that once you get started you really can’t stop — it’s like holding a 2-lb bag of peanut M&M’s in your hands. Everything eventually does fall apart and needs to be replaced — hopefully not all at that same time or in the same pay period. But alas, it just might be. For better or worse, when it comes to your house, it’s best to take a breath and with wallet in hand, simply acknowledge that one thing will inevitably lead to another. And then 100 things more. n

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