West Suburban Living Magazine March 2018

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SPOTLIGHT ON ELGIN

FINDING A GREAT VACATION HOME

MARCH 2018 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING • BEST OF THE WEST

BEST BESt OF THE WEST OUR READERS’ FAVORITES IN MORE THAN 80 CATEGORIES

VOL. 23 •

BESt PLACE tO BUY APPLiANCES

BESt wAtER PARK

BESt MEDitERRANEAN FOOD

NUMBER

MARCH 2018 $3.95

www.westsuburbanliving.net

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Q&A

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with COLLEGE OF DUPAGE PRESiDENt ANN RONDEAU 0

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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Managing Editor | Anne Knudsen Art Director | Rachel Switall Contributing Writers Laurie Barton, Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Jay Copp, Sara Pearsaul Vice, Lynn Petrak, Lisa Sloan, Michele Weldon and Tom Witom Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Accounting Jennifer Cozette Circulation Coordinator Ken Cozette Reader Advisory Board Laurie Barton (Glen Ellyn) Linda Cassidy (Campton Hills) Mary Ellen Coombs (Wheaton), Joan Hoff (Elmhurst) M Grace Grzanek (Batavia), Liz Hunka (Wheaton) Nancy Jensen (Batavia), Holly Jordan (Wheaton) Mary Ellen Kastenholz (Western Springs) Kate Kirkpatrick (Naperville) Molly Livermore (St. Charles) Pamela Peterson (Burr Ridge) Diana Santos (Woodridge), Darla Scheidt (Darien) Jean Stawarz (Oak Brook) Marilyn Straub Garazin (Winfield)

West Suburban Living is a publication of C2 Publishing, Inc. Suite 412, High Point Plaza, 4415 Harrison St, Hillside, IL 60162 630 834-4995 / 630 834-4996 (fax) wsl@westsuburbanliving.net subscriptions@westsuburbanliving.net www.westsuburbanliving.net

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of C2 Publishing, Inc. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of West Suburban Living or its parent company.

West Suburban Living (Vol. 23, No. 3 MARCH 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 |

March

|

2018

Photo courtesy of Waya Vacation Rental Company

West Suburban Living

Home&Garden

46

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Answers to your garden dilemmas

50

54

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

What to consider when renting or buying a vacation property

Health THE BEST SMILE IS A HEALTHY SMILE

Area experts explore cosmetic dentistry options to brighten smiles and soothe pain

50 Photo courtesy of City of Elgin

Town Focus FESTIVAL PARK IN ELGIN

 Features 32

58

ELGIN

By embracing growth and change, this historic Fox River city is fusing the past and present

58

SISTER CITIES How west suburban towns are making connections and sharing cultures with counterparts in sibling communities around the world

36

BEST OF THE WEST When it comes to knowing what’s best in the western suburbs, we go straight to the source — our readers

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DEPARTMENTS March

|

2017

GILBERT GOTTFRIED

THE IRISH SHOP

Photo by Laurie Barton

|

Photo courtesy of Zanies Comedy Club

West Suburban Living

TANGO2

21 8

18

76

FOREWORD

Stricter control of guns is simply a matter of common sense . . . and public safety

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BY THE NUMBERS

14

Q&A

20

LOCAL AUTHORS

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

Cruise ship captain takes a detour . . . and steers right into a new career LAST WORD

A curious urge to step back in time — and dress the part

66

Around the Towns

Perspectives

74

16

with President of College of DuPage, Dr. Ann Rondeau

SCENE & SEEN

A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events

Style&Fashion STOPS & SHOPS

New stores and hidden gems

Out&About

21

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

Intriguing numerical tidbits

New book releases from west suburban writers

Photo courtesy of Tango2

16

Dining

64

REVIEW: FoxFire in Geneva

66

REVIEW: Tango2 in Naperville

63

NEW RESTAURANTS

70

CHEERS

Mission BBQ in Downers Grove and the Reserve Room in Naperville

Noble Rot: A premium wine finessed from hand-picked grapes

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The best in music, theatre and other area events

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EDITOR’S NOTE A Sad History Continues to Repeat Itself “Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.”

- Will Rogers

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

- J.R.R. Tolkien

“Tell me and I forget.

Teach me and I remember.

Involve me and I learn.”

- Benjamin Franklin

“It’s not, what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”

- Henry David Thoreau

“Fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

E

xactly 10 years prior to the day of the recent shooting rampage that left 17 people dead at a high school in Parkland, Florida, a similar attack occurred at Northern Illinois University on Feb. 14, 2008. Five students were killed, four of whom lived in the western suburbs. Do you remember?

Sadly, all too few people do. We tend to have a short memory, especially when it comes to the tragic consequences of our totally unconscionable failure to put common sense limits on access to guns, especially semi-automatic weapons.

A year prior to the NIU shootings, 32 people were killed in a mass shooting at Virginia Tech University. Nine years earlier, 12 students and a teacher were gunned down at Columbine High School in Colorado. Less than six years ago, it was 20 first graders and six staff members killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. In between and since, there have been a myriad of other mass shootings, not just at schools, but in public places across the country.

Putting reasonable restrictions in place on access to automatic weapons is not about politics. It is about common sense. It is about public safety. It is about doing everything we can to avoid another shooting like the one that just occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida — and the one at Northern Illinois University a decade ago.

For regular readers of this column, the above is a significant departure from my normal ramblings, which usually tie in more directly to the content of the magazine.

I made a conscious exception in this case because I feel so strongly that we can simply no longer maintain the status quo in this country when it comes to access to guns. We owe it to the victims and their families to demand constructive changes in our gun laws, and we owe it to our kids to assure their future safety.

On a decidedly lighter note, this issue contains the results of our annual Best of the West reader poll (page 36). After a trial run last year, it is the first time that we fully integrated online voting into our results. As anticipated, the ease of digital voting facilitated more efforts at ballot box stuffing. But it also helped elicit hundreds more votes, which broadened the breadth and depth of our results.

We hope you enjoy perusing the lists of top finishers in more than 80 categories and that you find the information both fun and useful. For those of you who voted, a sincere thank you. And for those who didn’t, you are encouraged to share your local favorites with us next year.

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

- II Corinthians 4:18

Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net

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THE

AROUND TOWNS |

STOPS & SHOPS

|

LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

|

LOCAL AUTHORS Photo courtesy of Elmhurst Brewing Company

Q&A

Brew Local

from left: Frazer Donaldson, Cam Horn and Peter Dolan

N

At Morton Arboretum Real ale enthus until October 22

ewly opened Elmhurst Brewing Company joins a

and waitstaff are from the western suburbs. Even the

growing cadre of west suburban brewers catering

massive brew station — where the creativity hops — is

to beer enthusiasts who prefer to “drink local.” And the home-town spirit goes way beyond the brews — the

built by Crawford Brewing Systems in Rock Island, Illinois.

With 18-ft ceilings, the building has plenty of room

venture is the brainchild of a collaborative team of 40

for the giant 30-keg fermenters and serving tanks

families, all but three local to Elmhurst. In rehabbing

needed to brew on-site. The 15-barrel brewhouse is

a spacious building at 171 N. Addison St., owners

“behind glass,” allowing patrons to watch brewmaster

and 10-year Elmhurst residents Peter Dolan and Frazer

Cam Horn at work. The main floor and mezzanine bars

Donaldson made a conscious effort to hire local

tap directly into freshly brewed kegs, with a dozen IPAs

— contractors, accountants, insurance agents, vendors

and APAs in the pipes.

— Anne Knudsen

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THE

BY NUMBERS

680

Photo courtesy of American Lung Association

GLEN ELLYN FIRE DEPARTMENT TEAM

In the midst of a February snow storm, 800 fitness and fundraising enthusiasts stepped up

to Tackle the Tower — by climbing the 31 floors or 680 stairs up west suburbia’s tallest office building, Oakbrook Terrace Tower.

Some walked, some ran, some raced. Extreme climbers tripled down, challenging the tower three times for a step count of 2,040. Seven firefighter teams came in full gear — hauling a hefty 65 extra pounds up the vertical challenge.

The big winner? The American Lung Association, which organizes Fight for Air Climbs around the country. Each registrant paid a fee of $15 to $70 and committed to bring in at least $100 more in sponsorships. The day raised $150,000 which will help the 1.3 million Illinoisans who suffer from lung disease.

$7.8 million per year There’s money in the arts. That’s the key implication of a new study into the financial feasibility of building a theatre venue in downtown Elmhurst. The survey, commissioned by local not-for-profit Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts and conducted by Johnson Consulting, concludes that

W

4 ould you trust your life to the cold, metal hands of a four-

armed robot? How about if it means you could opt for a minimally invasive surgical procedure instead of going under the knife for a large-incision

the addition of a two-theatre arts center would have an overall impact of $7.8 million in total in-town spending.

Beyond show tickets, theatre-goers would spend an average of $50 in local bars and restaurants. For out-of-towners who stay overnight, that goes up to $203. To further spotlight the numbers, the city would earn $197,000 per year in direct taxes plus $668,000 via sales taxes on food, beverages and hotels. The building of the center would provide 350 construction jobs, as well as 56 long-term positions once the center is operational. And the cost? An estimated $25 million for a free-standing facility housing a 550-seat mainstage theatre and a 130-seat studio, plus ancillary support areas.

hospital stay — with virtually no

A-SUGARING WE GO! It’s maple syrup month in the

reliance on opioids for pain relief?

‘burbs and here are six sweet spots to tap the trees:

Edward-Elmhurst Health recently acquired the da Vinci Xi Surgical System, the latest advance in roboticassisted surgery. While it may be alarming to look at, this marvel of technology has highly flexible wrists that allow for precise, steady movements. Its ability to operate

Kline Creek Farm, West Chicago, March 3 – 4 LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, St. Charles, March 3 – 4 Knoch Knolls Nature Center, Naperville, March 4, 11, 18 and 25 Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, Oak Brook, March 17 Red Oak Nature Center, Batavia, March 17

from virtually any angle means easier

Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley,

access to the most difficult-to-reach

Schaumburg, March 17

parts of the human anatomy.

Trees must reach 40 years of growth before they’re

Edward Hospital in Naperville recently marked its 3,000th roboticassisted procedure using an earlier model, da Vinci Si. The newcomer is expected to handle about 500 procedures annually.

Photo courtesy of DuPage County Forest Preserve

operation? Or how about a shorter

ready to tap and while each one will produce about 40 – 50 gallons of sap, that makes for only one gallon of maple syrup. Still, a healthy tree will produce sap for up to 100 years. At 54 calories per tablespoon, maple syrup is one of the lowest calorie natural sweeteners — and it’s packed with antioxidants, too.

6

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Q&A

Dr. Ann Rondeau/ Photo by John Boehm/Special to College of DuPage

Meet the former Navy admiral now at the helm at College of DuPage

PURSUING A LIFETIME DEDICATED TO SERVICE, Dr. Ann Rondeau moved to Wheaton two years ago to take up her next adventure — serving as the sixth President of College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn. No stranger to challenge, Dr. Rondeau retired from the U.S. Navy in 2012 as a three-star admiral, the second woman to have achieved this rank. She gained extensive leadership experience in military roles, including Pentagon Director/Chief of Staff for the U.S. Navy Staff, Commander of the Navy Personnel Development Command in Virginia, and President of the National Defense University. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, with a masters from Georgetown University, Dr. Rondeau also served as a White House Fellow in the Reagan Administration.

Let’s begin by telling our readers a little about your background.

AR: I grew up in the Hudson Valley of New York State in the small town of Beacon,along the Hudson River and in the foothills of the

Q&A

Appalachians. It was a beautiful area.

My sister and I were very close and knew the love of parents and friends. While growing up, my parents each had health challenges, and financial challenges were always present. But our parents were purposeful and focused toward ensuring that my sister and I were given every advantage they could muster.

I was aware then, and even more acutely over time, that those health and financial challenges made my sister and I more mature and aware early on in our lives.

no financial aid, I could not afford grad school. Nationally, we were in a recession and job prospects for someone entering the workforce at that time were meager.

My sister was pursuing her nursing degree on a full-ride Navy scholarship and suggested I think about the Navy. I did extremely well on the Navy’s aptitude exam and when I met the recruiter, I was impressed with her answer to my question,“Why should I join the Navy?” Her answer: “You will have the opportunity to lead from the very first day you join.” That was good enough for me.

What kind of student were you?

AR: I was a good student and an engaged kid with lots of interests. I enjoyed family, friends, church, the outdoors — hiking, walking, bicycling. This was before Title IX, so there were no girls’/women’s sports or athletic opportunities unless you attended private school. I was also a natural and comfortable leader and was active in church, school and the community as a visible student leader in all kinds of activities, endeavors and projects.

Even as a young kid, I liked being part of a team effort toward purpose. Ironically, I always had a slight stammer, but with that realization I joined the school Forensics Club and volunteered for speaking opportunities. I was encouraged to have a voice and worked on how to present ideas and compel others toward belief and action.

Was it difficult navigating in such a male dominant culture?

AR: Whenever you enter a competitive workplace, especially for any younger cadre, you must learn to work within that environment. Yes, there was competition and some people sought advantage.

However, in the Navy, there is also comradeship and an obligation toward each other’s success. The military “grows their own.” You are always training the person who will relieve you, and the commitment toward mission success engenders an obligation to help others succeed. Did I experience rough spots?

Yes. Was I stronger for understanding my missteps and seeking to perform at the highest level? Yes. I often quip that I had the benefit of more mentors than tormentors.

I worked hard and I had the deep satisfaction of performing at high levels.

The fact that I was able to compete, including being a White House Fellow, is as much about effectively working hard as it is about having mentors and people who were present and serving as support.

What made you choose the military and why specifically the Navy?

AR: I had been successful in college and accepted to graduate school. But with

RAPID FIRE

have pursued? Corporate or labor

working? Family, reading,

lawyer; history or theology scholar;

walking/hiking, white water rafting;

pilot; civil engineer.

good food/dining with excellent

Four words that best describe you.

history of science and mathematics,

You’ve traveled the world — what

conversation. Thoughtful eye-to-eye

Earnest, trustworthy, grateful

political, social development, military,

was the best place to see? Many

conversation is really important.

and a problem-solver.

national, art — I learn from history.

favorite places, but the most exotic

Favorite quote or words of wisdom

Books likely be found on your

If you hadn’t joined the Navy, what

to date has been Antarctica.

to live by? I have always liked “The

night stand. History of all kinds:

career do you think you would

Hobbies or interests when not

truth shall set you free.”

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a A N o b f O a a m g T t a o b g c e f g o l o i I a p

t i A s t i a o s a

y d A B t a t o a t t F b o a

.

How did the Navy shape you as a person and as a leader?

AR: I had a wide-ranging career in the Navy that covered the waterfront: tactics, operations, strategy, analysis, policy, business and working with local, state, federal and foreign government entities.

Of course, at every juncture there was always an opportunity to lead, whether as an operational leader, team leader, mission leader or thought leader. There was great satisfaction in getting things done.

There is nothing — absolutely nothing — that gives me as much joy, mindfulness and gratitude as the privilege of leading others to succeed and win. Being trusted, being given loyalty and good faith, being given the gifts of others’ talents toward common purpose — well, there are few experiences in my life as eye-watering for me as being a part of something greater than yourself. From that, one of my leadership principles is “covenant leadership”— accounting for myself while obligating myself to others. Accountability is liberating; obligation is gratifying. Frankly, I owe much of this philosophy to my faith and it reflects the example set by my parents and my sister.

What is it about College of DuPage that made the job of president interesting to you?

AR: This opportunity and privilege of service is a calling. Frankly, I was meant to be here. The mission is terrific and so important to our region, state, nation and the world. The collective genius of our people is so energizing and our students — our students — give us a deep sense of purpose.

The college had a few challenging years prior to your arrival. What steps did you take to calm the waters?

AR: Trust. Trust. Trust. Being trustworthy.

Being willing to take risks based on trust. Trust is paradoxically tempered and strong as well as fragile. Trust and trustworthiness are the precious metal of team and organizational health and success. Along with that, it helps to have a bit of humor and mirth and the ability to laugh and breathe easily.

From there we learn good things while building energy and capacity toward our promise to each other, the public and our students.

In the wake of yet another school shooting this past month, what are your thoughts about why this kind of violence continues to happen, what can be done to stop incidents like these?

AR: First of all, we should all be mindful of the agony of the families affected by this latest tragedy. There is such heartbreak in our country — too much heartbreak of this kind over too many years. This is a huge question and one that obviously requires the applied expertise of many.

There are no easy answers. However, the tone of our national conversation could benefit from less amplitude and volume and more attitude and focus about collaboratively addressing what makes for a healthy civil society. We, as a nation, have a remarkable history of solving problems once we agree on core objectives and principles. We need to all work together in order for the nation to reach that place.

How did you end up choosing to live in Wheaton? What do you like about it?

AR: I knew about Wheaton from a former aide-de-camp who attended Wheaton College. The city is close to our campus and has excellent options for renting a quality apartment. I live downtown and get to hear every train and witness the vibrancy of American commerce pass by my window over 70 times a day!

I can walk to Maxi dry cleaners, Mariano’s, a host of very good restaurants, clothes shops, Prairie Path Books and my church.

Shops, shoe repair, bakeries, restaurants — all of the people of Wheaton exude warmth and offer a smile.

Have you had opportunities to see much of the neighboring areas?

AR: My apartment is a short drive from south Wheaton and there are a host of services and shops in the Danada area.

I’ve also joined Morton Arboretum in Lisle and have enjoyed its offerings — from educational opportunities to hiking and bicycling. Wheaton’s ambitious plan for redeveloping downtown is an investment in its future and is uplifting as I watch the transformation of the city into an even more attractive place to live and work.

This winter, I also witnessed some of the best snow-clearing techniques I have ever seen — and I have lived in many areas with lots of snow!

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STOPS&SHOPS



Photo by Laurie Barton

Photo by Anne Knudsen

Photo by Laurie Barton

Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites

CLEVER GIRL

TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES

THE IRISH SHOP

BUY SOMETHING SPECIAL, do

THERE’S A LITTLE PIECE OF IRELAND in

something special. Recognized as one of the world’s most ethical companies, Ten Thousand Villages, with a store at 503 Pennsylvania Ave. in Glen Ellyn (630 790-1166), offers hand-crafted items from more than 30 developing countries. Staffed primarily by volunteers, this not-forprofit outlet displays home décor, clothing, toys and jewelry. Skilled artisans receive a fair price for their work, so every purchase helps to sustain citizens globally.

South Asian saris are recycled into colorful pillows, quilts and lamps.

In the village of Bat Trang, workers use the clay in the Red River to make cups and dishes that are hand painted in a distinctive blue design. Pakistani Bunyard rugs are hand knotted and dyed with colors harvested from local spices and plants. It takes several craftsmen over a year to complete one rug.

Jewelry made in Cambodia from bullet casings is a conversation starter, as are items using bicycle chains and wood. — Laurie Barton

the heart of Oak Park, a haven for shoppers nostalgic for the Emerald Isle. This vast, emporium-style store located at 100 W. Oak Park Ave. (708 445-1149) has all the usual St. Paddy’s Day-themed items, from leprechaun hats to “luck of the Irish” T-shirts. But there’s also a grand collection of Waterford crystal, shamrock-patterned Belleek pottery and Celtic stained glass. The Merino wool hand-knits go beyond Aran sweaters to luxurious capes, cowls and wraps.

Christening and First Communion fashions are a specialty, as is jewelry, featuring wedding bands, Celtic pieces and saints’ pendants.

Each year, Anne August, a Belfast native, and her husband Jim, a Chicagoan, visit Ireland on a four-day buying spree that’s as much about finding new items as it is about nurturing artisans and vendors — like the gold and sliver Claddagh rings in the store, it’s all about friendship, love and loyalty.

— Anne Knudsen

BRIGHT, APPLE-GREEN DOORS draw

you inside Clever Girl, where the many generations of retail experience are obvious in the creative displays and variety of merchandise.

Located at 907 Burlington Ave. in Western Springs (708 246-5050), this is a store known for its bright colors — no beige or gray here. One eyecatcher is the pretty blue-and-white array of dishes and pottery.

Stonewall Kitchen jellies and jams tempt with flavors like maple apple onion and wild Maine blueberry.

A best seller is the Tea Forté line of specialty teas and accessories — or pick up a pack of cookies from Lark Fine Foods to complete a gift.

Also popular are fragrant candles from NEST and Kate Spade.

Other gift items include jewelry, soaps, purses and scarves, while a vast assortment of unusual greeting cards assures that yours will not be a duplicate.

Gift wrap is complimentary and shipping is available. Dogs are welcome and are offered special treats.

— 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.

THE GNOME COLONY CO. Spacious boutique with eclectic fashions, jewelry and gifts. 485 N. Main St..

Glen Ellyn. 630 793-5284 THE BOOK SHOP New and used books in a cozy,

community-friendly setting.

15 N. River St., Batavia.

630 447-8780

consignment pieces.

20 W. Jefferson, Naperville.

630 673-2041

with samples available to taste. 55 S. Main Street, Suite 355, Naperville. 630 365-7580

MKT 46 A mix of vintage and contemporary furniture including artisinal items and upscale

CREATIVE CAKES DESIGN STUDIO Custom-created cakes for weddings and other special occasions,

SPARROW COFFEE A communal space with a chic ambiance, barista service and organic, artisinal

ingredients. 120 Water St., Naperville. 630 384-8940 THE JOY BAR A cozy bar with juices and smoothies fueled by locally sourced fruits & veggies. 548 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 504-0669

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TO THE

LOOK WESTERN SKY

By Joni Hirsch Blackman

The Mobile Houdini of Western Springs Cruise ship captain takes a detour . . . and steers right into a new career

C

reative people often dream of exiting their everyday jobs, but Western Springs’ Jason Garvett embraced escape as a career move.

The architecture cruise captain and former acting/directing major wasn’t exactly sure how he’d scratch the old creative itch that had resurfaced. Then he went to an escape room for his birthday.

He ended up in a room with several 15-year-olds.

“I thought it would be the worst birthday ever, trapped with them,” Garvett says with a laugh. “But the puzzle-solving, working with people I didn’t know. The generational thing was great — they figured out the combination for the lock but they didn’t know how to open it — the adults had to show them how locks worked. We all had to put down our phones! It was a fun setting.”

The adrenaline rush reminded Garvett of performing. Escape rooms intrigued him. But he knew from his years as charter manager for Chicago’s First Lady cruises how hard it can be to get lots of people to one place. The answer? Mobile Room Escape.

Incorporated in October 2015 and opened in March 2016, it was one of the country’s first mobile escape rooms.

Garvett first thought “mobile” could mean puzzles set up in customers’ houses — a “pop-up” room. He then realized people might not want strangers rummaging around their homes.

That’s how Garvett ended up in Morris, Illinois, ordering a customizable 32-foot trailer.

“The number of sleepless nights was ridiculous,” he recalls. “I was going from a secure job driving the boats to starting my own venture. It was one of the scariest

times of my life.”

A week before opening, at a trade show in Schaumburg where he hoped to drum up a kids’ birthday party booking, Garvett met a business owner whose arcades and video games traveled in a trailer.

“I was thinking he was going to say I

Clarendon Hills and way beyond — to 14 other states, including Iowa for a post-prom event, and South Carolina for corporate team building.

In Chicago, one room hosted Star Jones’ son’s birthday party.

Many escape rooms discourage

“

That’s the whole point of escape rooms — getting out and having fun doing so.

was copying him, but instead he told me he had worked for Ford for 30 years and designs trailers for various businesses.

‘Next time you design a trailer,’ he said, ‘call me.’”

The journey had a few dead ends.

Selling tickets to sparse crowds in Gurnee Mills’ parking lot was somewhat fruitless.

Garvett wasn’t sure he’d make enough to pay the gas and other bills. He worried he’d be closed within a week.

Fairs worked better. Patrons of fall harvests and various suburban festivals flocked to try out the trailer’s 15-minute experiences. But hour-long, family-friendly private parties in the themed trailer drew the most rave reviews — first, a mad scientist’s laboratory and then a submarine (World War II buff Garvett figured everyone loves a good periscope.)

His own creative puzzle was finally solved. “I get my fix acting, directing, writing. As a father of two, working and running another business, it would be hard to fit in rehearsals,” Garvett says.

The trailers have hosted parties for people aged from five to 80 and older in Naperville, Hinsdale, Elmhurst,

children. Not Garvett.

“Any time you rule out a class of people — age, class, religion, orientation — it’s not a good decision. Unlike a lot of rooms, our game master is with participants the whole time — I hire actors and want them to engage the audience and be part of the scenario,” says Garvett, who still also captains the First Lady cruises.

Mobile Room Escape also builds trailers for other owners — yes, Garvett called the guy from Ford. The two have sent more than a dozen trailers to Miami, Seattle, Nashville, Branson and Atlanta.

“People kept asking about the mobile aspect. I thought, if I’m going to do that, I need an expert. We went to the first Escape Room trade show in the country and sold three. Now we build them.”

Coming soon: a trailer featuring super heroes and four original super villains drawn by a local cartoonist. “We try to appeal to all ages and types of people and keep it interesting for us too,” says Garvett.

“If you’re not interested in what you’re doing, it’s not going to come out well.”

That’s whole point of an escape room — getting out, and having fun doing so.

18 MARCH 2018 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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LOCAL AUTHORS

By Anne Knudsen

Hot Mess Elmhurst food writer dishes up her debut novel

E

With razor-sharp wit and searing insight, Belden serves up a deliciously dishy look behind the kitchen doors of Chicago’s hot foodie culture.

Hot Mess is Belden’s first foray into fiction.

She is a Chicago-area food writer and the author of Eightysixed: A Memoir About Unforgettable Men, Mistakes and Meals, soon to be a digital comedy series, All for the Nope.

She first came

Photo by Tek Chung

very recipe tells a story, and writer Emily Belden, who grew up in west suburban Elmhurst and now lives in Chicago, has more than a passing familiarity with the downtown food scene.

She started out in the hospitality industry, created a popular culinary blog, and is an unapologetic foodie. When she turned her hand to fiction, it was a no-brainer to set her first novel in the food business.

Hot Mess is the story of a young woman thrust into Chicago’s restaurant scene when her recovering addict-turned-celebrity-chef boyfriend relapses — but only after persuading her to sink her life savings into his hip new restaurant. Left with nothing but a massive withdrawal slip and a Randolph Street eatery that absolutely must

to national attention on The Today Show, after local media heard

open in a matter of weeks, Allie Simon — a social media manager for a cotton-swab company — discovers that she can either crumble completely or fight like crazy for the life she wants and the love she deserves.

how she had tiled her entire bedroom floor with 60,000 pennies — all heads-up for

Emily Belden

good luck.

LOVE, HATE & OTHER FILTERS by Samira Ahmed,

WINFIELD

RUNNING FROM DISASTER

TINY AND THE BIG DIG

by James McGuire of Winfield

formerly of Batavia

McGuire, who has worked

by Aubrey Parr of Lisle

of St. Charles

This debut novel for young

with Winfield Historical Society

In this heart-gripping mystery,

New York Times bestselling author

adults is the coming-of-age story

for many years, uses an

a predator is on the loose.

of the picture book Mighty, Mighty

of an Indian-American teen

extensive collection of vintage

Gabriella won’t let fear break

Construction Site turns her pen

struggling to cope with family

photos to showcase life in early

her routine of taking sunrise jogs

to the tiny dog that is doing the

expectations, Islamophobia and

Winfield, dating back to the

with her running group. When

digging. With charming, humorous

cultural divides. Maya’s world

mid 19th century. The focus is

she meets Dylan, a man with a

illustrations by Matt Myers, the

is rocked by a horrifying act of

on founding residents and the

poor track record in relationships,

story delights toddlers and early

domestic terrorism that ignites

places they lived, worked and

not even her sense of self-

readers. Duskey Rinker’s simple

fear and bigotry within the

played. There are pictures of

preservation can stop Gabriella

rhymes are designed to appeal

community she thought of as

longtime staples like Schmidt’s

from falling. In a love story that

to the littlest listeners and introduce

home. The rush of new love and

Meat Market and Higgins Store,

doesn’t play by the rules, Parr

them to a plucky pooch with

the shock of old hatred threaten

as well as stories of places lost

deftly combines contemporary

paws that love to dig and the

to alter the course of her life.

to fire and the ravages of time.

romance with dark suspense.

special boy who believes in him.

by Sherri Duskey Rinker

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

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OUT&ABOUT |

THEATRE

|

COMEDY

|

ART

|

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

|

HOME & GARDEN

|

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Dominican University Performing Arts Center

MUSIC

Megan Hilty March 10 The Broadway singer and actress who played Ivy Lynn on the musical drama series Smash performs with singer and actor Brian Stokes Mitchell at Lund Auditorium at Dominican University in River Forest. Call 708 488-5000

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Calendar of Events

THEATRE

Photo by Brett Beiner

Photo courtesy of “In the Mood”

OUT&ABOUT

| Cheers to You, Kid! | Through Mar 4, Fri − Sat, 7 p.m. and Sun, 6 p.m. Written by local playwright Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff, this spoof is set in the famous Boston bar and brims with mayhem, murder and mystery. Cost: $55 (includes dinner). GreenMan Theatre Troupe, Dinner Theatre at Angelo's Ristorante, 247 N York Rd., Elmhurst.

630 464-2646 | I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change | Through Mar 4, Thur − Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. An intimate musical comedy exploring the taboos and stereotypes of romance and modern relationships. Cost: $15/10. Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville.630 637-7469 | Working | Through Mar 4, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Based on the Studs Terkel book of interviews with American workers, this musical features new songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and favorites by Stephen Schwartz.

Cost: $20/18. SecondSpace Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Time Stands Still | Through Mar 4, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. In a witty, intelligent look at what happens when ordinary life is refracted through the lens of war, a journalist and photographer return from Iraq and examine their relationship and changing identities.

Cost: $37/35. McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Three the Hard Way | Through Mar 18, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. The Midwest premiere of a

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Through Mar 25 JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s biblically inspired Broadway blockbuster of power dreams and destiny at Drury Lane Theatre. Call 630 530-0111

comedy featuring three strong sisters who take steps to reconnect, grieve and reframe their past and future.

Cost: $28/22. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521 | Much Ado About Nothing | Through Mar 18, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. In this mid-career comedy, Shakespeare pits two young lovers Hero and Claudio against two confirmed singles Benedick and Beatrice.

Cost: $16/14. Studio Theatre at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | Through Mar 25, Wed − Sun, 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.

Rice and Lloyd Webber's biblically inspired Broadway blockbuster of power dreams. Cost:$62/47. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111

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| National Theatre Live: Yerma | Sun, Mar 4, 2 p.m.; Also, Thur, Mar 8, 7 p.m. A re-braodcast of London's Young Vic production of a modern version of the Spanish classic

by Federico García Lorca, starring Bille Piper. Cost: $24.

Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The 39 Steps | Mar 9 - 25, Fri - Sat, 8 p.m., Sun, 3 p.m.

A whodunnit farce based on Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film masterpiece, mixed in with a juicy spy novel and a dash of Monty Python. Cost: $30/25. BrightSide Theatre, Meiley Swallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville.

630 447-8497 | Da | Mar 16 – Apr 21, Fri – Sat, 8 p.m. A dark, bittersweet comedy by Irish playwright Hugh Leonard, where a man returns to his childhood home for his father’s funeral, only to be confronted by Da’s ghost. Cost: $17/15. The Riverfront Playhouse, 13 S Water St., Aurora. 630 897-9496 | Joan of Arc | Mar 23 – Apr 1, Fri, 8 p.m., Sat 3 & 8 p.m., and Sun, 3 p.m. This new original musical by Mike & Jerry Sigman draws on trial records to tell the story of the French heroine. Cost: $25/15. Mainstage Theater at The Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles.

224 944-2591 | The Miss Firecracker Competition | Mar 23 – Apr 14, Fri - Sat 8 p.m. and Sun, 3 p.m. In this wacky comedy by noted American playwright Beth Henley, the four principal characters seek to escape their unhappy pasts and find new hope, all amidst the rivalry of a Mississippi beauty contest. Cost: $18. Village Players Theatre Guild, 2S720 S Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-8230 | A Piece of My Heart | Mar 23 – Apr 15, Thur – Sat, 8 p.m. and Sun, 3 p.m. No show Sun, Apr 1. A true drama in which three nurses, a Red Cross volunteer, a USO entertainer, and an Army intelligence officer bare their souls about their experiences in the women’s service in Vietnam. Cost: $18/15. Playhouse 111, 111 N Hale St., Wheaton. 630 260-1820 | The Wolf at the End of the Block | Mar 29 – May 5, Thur – Fri, 7:30 p.m., Sat, 4 & 8 p.m. No 4 p.m. show on Mar 31. A personal, pointed and political thriller by Ike Holter.

Cost: $22. 16th Street Theater, Berwyn Cultural Center, 6420 16th St., Berwyn.

COMEDY | Loni Love | Mar 1 – 3, Thur, 7:30 p.m., Fri, 8 & 9:15 p.m., Sat, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Stand-up from a top female comedian who is a frequent guest on “The Ellen Show.” Cost: $24 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Mall K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Three Redneck Tenors | Sun, Mar 4, 7 p.m. Three classically trained tenor singers featured on NBC's "America's Got Talent" combine music with comedy.

Cost: $38/36. Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | Gilbert Gotfried | Sat, Mar 10, 7 p.m. New York standup legend and “Saturday Night Live” comic who has also appeared in “Problem Child” and “Look Who’s Talking II.” Cost: $30 + 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club,Parkway Bank Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Pat Tomasulo | Sat, Mar 24, 8 p.m. WGN’s Man of the People presents a night of comedy, with opening musical act Rosie & the Rivets. $30/25. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs.

708 246-3380 | David Spade | Mar 28 - 29, Wed, 7 p.m., Thur, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Emmy-nominated actor and five-year cast member of “Saturday Night Live.” Cost: $49 + 2 item min.

Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Mall K120B, Schaumburg.

847 240-2001 | Rob Sherwood | Mar 29 - 31, Thur - Fri, 8 p.m., Sat, 7:30 & 9:45. Las Vegas-based stand-up comic and syndicated radio show host presents likeable comedy that easily relates to families. Cost: $22 + 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 584-6300

MUSIC

Photos by Graham Webb

Photo by Brett Beiner

| Mummenschanz: You & Me | Sat, Mar 3, 7:30 p.m.

This Swiss mask theater company celebrates 40 years of wordless yet poetic theatrical performance, offering insight into the human condition. Cost: $52/44. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000

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| Bill McGlaughlin on Leonard Bernstein | Sat, Mar 3, 7 p.m. Musician, musicologist, storyteller and nationally syndicated radio host presents a live version of his radio show, “Exploring Music,” in an exploration of American music titan, Leonard Bernstein. Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Rd., St Charles. 630 584-7200 | Get the Led Out | Sat, Mar 3, 8 p.m. Led Zeppelin tribute band takes the audience on a ride through the annals of rock & roll and heavy metal. Cost: $65/20. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont.

847 671-5100 | Black Oak Ensemble | Sun, Mar 4, 2:15 p.m. Chicagobased trio of violin, viola and cello plays select classical pieces to celebrate the natural world. Arbor Room of the Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Elmhurst College Jazz Band | Sun, Mar 4, 3 p.m.

Directed by Doug Beach, the nationally celebrated ensemble plays a free concert of jazz favorites. First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1047 Curtiss St., Downers Grove. 630-968-0358 | Orion Ensemble: Old Meets New | Sun, Mar 4, 7 p.m. In its 25th season, the all-female chamber music ensemble, joined by guest viola Stephen Boe, plays pieces from Bruch, Klein, Huydts and Fauré. Cost: $26/13.

First Baptist Church of Geneva, 2300 South St., Geneva. www.orionensemble.org | The Marshall Tucker Band | Fri, Mar 4, 8 p.m. Forty years on, the band plays a mix of classic rock and country, with old favorites and new recordings. Cost: $49/25. Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 261-0392 | One Night of Queen | Sat, Mar 7, 8 p.m. Tribute band

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Calendar of Events

ART GARFUNKEL Countertenor and legendary duo partner to Paul Simon performs from classic albums and his solo career at Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College. Call 847 622-0300. Additional performance on Sat, Mar 10, 8 p.m. at Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville. Call 630 637-7469 Gary Mullen & The Works pays homage to the rock greats. Cost: $65/26. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes | Thur, Mar 8, 7:30 p.m. A rhythm & blues band with a decades-long career performs hits like “I Don’t Want To Go Home,” “Love on the Wrong Side of Town” and their definitive fun-time cover of “We’re Having A Party.” Cost: $59/29.

Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Tríréad | Fri, Mar 9, 7 p.m. Performing to benefit Glen Ellyn Food Pantry, the Irish band features Chicago artists Max Dunne on uilleann piper and bouzouki, guitar and whistle, Ian King on fiddle and classically trained vocalist Nora Byrd. Cost: $20/15. Grace Lutheran Church, 493 Forest Ave., Glen Ellyn. 630-469-1555 | Art Garfunkel | Fri, Mar 9, 7:30 p.m. Countertenor and legendary duo partner to Paul Simon performs from classic albums and his solo career. Cost: $79/59. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300. Additional performance on Sat, Mar 10, 8 p.m. at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Demi Lovato | Fri, Mar 9, 7:30 p.m. Multiple award winning singer-songwriter best known for hits "Stone Cold" and "Confident," is joined on stage by special guest record producer and radio personality DJ Khaled.

Cost: $499/44. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Piano Man Tribute | Fri, Mar 9, 8 p.m. Mike Sigman, with a hand-picked group of versatile musicians, brings the music of Elton John and Billy Joel to life. Cost: $25/15.

Mainstage Theater at The Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 224 944-2591 | Bajaga & Instruktori | Fri, Mar 9, 10 p.m. Influential rock band of the former Yugoslav and Serbian rock scene performing songs from the mid-to-late 1980s. Cost: $50.

Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 261-0392 | Kristin Lems: The Once & Future Woman | Sat, Mar 10, 2 p.m. This composer, songwriter and folk singer performs music to celebrate American women of all kinds in a moving portrait of the lives of those who struggle and survive. Cost: $10/5. Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867

| Brian Stokes Mitchell & Megan Hilty | Sat, Mar 10, 5 p.m. Broadway stars perform musical theatre hits and timeless standards from Gershwin to Ellington. Cost: $67/46. Lund Auditorium at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000 | Live from Laurel Canyon | Sat, Mar 10, 7 p.m.

Celebrate the songs and stories of American folk rock with this tribute to artists who lived in the West Hollywood canyon during the 1960s and 1970s, including Jackson Brown, Carole King, Jim Morrison and Joni Mitchell. Cost: $35/29. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300

music, this concert celebrates women's unique voices, with conductor Mei-Ann Chen and Anima Singers children’s chorus. Cost: $62/49. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Picosa | Sun, Mar 11, 3 p.m. Music from the Chicagobased chamber ensemble known for its signature symphonic sound, followed by a gourmet dessert reception. Cost: $25. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. www.picosamusic.com | Uriah Heep | Sun Mar 11, 5 p.m. London hard rock band formed in 1969, featuring rhythm guitarist Mick Box, keyboardist Phil Lanzon, vocalist Bernie Shaw, drummer Russell Gilbrook and bassist Davey Rimmer. Cost: $79/39.

Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Chicago Symphony Orchestra | Fri, Mar 16, 7:30 p.m.

Riccardo Muti conducts a program of compositions by Haydn and Mozart, featuring solo performance by CSO Concertmaster Robert Chen. Edman Memorial Chapel, 401 E. Franklin, Wheaton. 312 294-3000 | Paddy Homan & The Noble Call | Fri, Mar 16, 8 p.m.

A St. Patrick's evening concert of song, story, dance, banter and the best of Irish traditions, featuring artists from the “auld” country. Cost: $30/20. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Acappellago: The Wonderful World of Color | Sat, Mar 17, 7:30 p.m. A prism of songs featuring a new cycle written by Acappellago’s own Robert Applebaum.

Cost: $17/15 www.acappellago.org or 708 484-3797 Photo courtesy of DuPage Symphony Orchestra

Mar 9

Photo courtesy of Elgin Community College Arts Center

OUT&ABOUT

| Angela Ingersoll: Judy Garland, Come Rain or Shine | Sat, Mar 10, 7:30 p.m. Award-winning singer captures the emotional power of the screen icon with renditions of "Over the Rainbow," "Get Happy" and other Golden Age hits. Cost: $30/28. Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | In the Mood | Sat, Mar 10, 7:30 p.m. This fully staged musical revue celebrates the 1940s swing era with music from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra and others. Cost: $46/36. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 942-4000 | American English | Sat, Mar 10, 8 p.m. Three times voted Best Tribute Band in Chicagoland, the popular group revives the hits of the legendary Fab Four. Cost: $25/15. Mainstage Theater at The Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 224 944-2591 | 16 Candles | Sat, Mar 10, 9 p.m. Popular 1980s cover band brings the best of classic rock back to life. Cost: $10/8. Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 261-0392 | Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra: Water | Sun, Mar 11, 2, 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. Regional youth orchestra performs the music of Berstein, Bach and others. Cost: $25/14.

Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Axiom Brass | Sun, Mar 11, 2:30 p.m. Award-winning quintet performs "Celestial Suite" by local composer, James Stephenson. Cost: $18. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Chicago Sinfonietta: Hear Me Roar | Sun, Mar 11, 3 p.m. Challenging the traditional image of classical

Mar 18 DUPAGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: CELEBRATE NOW & THEN The area’s oldest regional orchestra performs Ottorino Respighiâ’s brilliant musical tribute to ancient and modern Rome, Feste Romane at Wentz Concert Hall. Call 630 637-7469

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Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Hounds of Finn

OUT&ABOUT

| Switchback St. Paddy's Day Concert | Sat, Mar 17, 7:30 p.m. Award-winning duo Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack draw on Celtic and Americana music that reflects their Irish heritage and Midwestern roots. Cost: $26/24. Maggie Atcher Theatre at Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Celebrate Now & Then | Sun, Mar 18, 3 p.m. The region's oldest orchestra performs Respighiâ’s tribute to ancient and modern Rome, Feste Romane. Cost: $38/15. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Frankie Avalon | Sun Mar 18, 3 p.m. Italian-American singer and former teen idol whose career spans three generations music, TV and movies. Cost: $89/49. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Chicago Harmony Sweepstakes Competition | Sat, Mar 24, 7:30 p.m. In its 34th season, watch the a capella contest that inspired NBC's show “The Sing-Off." Cost: $40/30. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. www.chicagoharmonysweepstakes.com | Northern Illinois University Steelband | Mar 23, 7:30 p.m. Internationally acclaimed percussion ensemble brings an evening of steel pan music to music lovers of all ages and tastes. Cost: $18. Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Rd., St Charles. 630 584-7200 | Hounds of Finn | Sat, Mar 24, 7:30 p.m. Celtic-infused, Americana-inspired folk rock group, with guitar, fiddle, and mandolin. Cost: $16. Maple Street Concerts, Maple Street Chapel, 200 S Main St., Lombard. 630 627-0171

Mar 24 HOUNDS OF FINN Celtic-infused, Americana-inspired folk rock group, featuring guitar, fiddle, and mandolin at Maple Street Chapel in Lombard. Call 630 627-0171

| The High Kings | Sat, Mar 24, 8 p.m. Four Irish singers who have charted a new course for the Irish ballad tradition present a night of music that spans rebel songs to reflective, folk-inspired compositions. Cost: $38/19.. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. & Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Buckethead | Sun Mar 25, 5 p.m. American musician and pop culture artist performs a range of progressive

metal, funk, blues, bluegrass and avant-garde music.

Cost: $79/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 962-7000 | Kenny G | Sun Mar 25, 5 p.m. Grammy Award-winning saxophonist and recording artist combines elements of R&B, pop and Latin in his unique interpretation of contemporary jazz. Cost: $89/59. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000

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Photo courtesy of Hounds of Finn

| Velvet Caravan | Sun, Mar 25, 6 p.m. Unorthodox, high-energy, acoustic-based quintet of guitar, violin, stand-up bass, percussion and keyboards plays its own upbeat formula of gypsy jazz. Cost: $35/30. Madden Theatre at North Central College, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Black Stone Cherry with Perry Hutchins | Thur, Mar 29, 8 p.m. Southern rock & roll band introduces a fifth album, “Kentucky.” Cost: $25/12. Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 261-0392 | Buddy Guy | Sat, Mar 31, 8 p.m. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy Award winner, with an opening act by Chicago bluesman Ronnie Baker Brooks.

Cost: $89/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E Van Buren St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | The Sweet with Special Guests House of Lords | Sat, Mar 31, 8 p.m. British glam rock and glitter band, with original band member Steve Priest on bass guitar, brings 1970s mega-hits like “Wig-Wam Bam” and “Ballroom Blitz.” Cost: $49/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo | Tue, Apr 3, 8 p.m. Rock legends share their hits in a stripped down, acoustic performance. Cost: $79/53. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E Van Buren St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Michael Bolton | Wed, Apr 4, 7:30 p.m. The multiple Grammy Award-winning songwriter and power vocalist who has sold more than 75 million albums and singles performs a mix of rock songs and soaring ballads.

Cost: $125/69. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 962-7000

DANCE | Rhythm of the Dance | Fri, Mar 9, 7:30 p.m. A richly costumed show that marries ancient and contemporary Celtic music and dance, with performances by a live band, three tenors and 22 internationally celebrated step dancers. Cost: $43/35. Batavia Fine Arts Center, 1399 W Wilson St., Batavia. 630 937-8930 | Shen Yun | Mar 21 − 25, Wed 7:30 p.m., Thur, 2 p.m., Fri, 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m., and Sun 1 p.m. A classical Chinese dance spectacle, exploring five millennia of traditional culture. Cost: $165/80. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100

ART | The Boomer List: Photographs by Timothy Greenfield Sanders | Through Mar 17, Tue − Fri, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. A traveling exhibition from Newseum/AARP featuring 19 large-format portraits of people from the influential baby boomer generation. Heritage Gallery in Pre-Emption House at Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Michelle Grabner with Tony Tasset, James Welling and Paula Crown | Through Mar 18, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. Led by WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MARCH 2018 27

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acclaimed Chicago artist, writer and curator Grabner, this exhibit features multi-media creations that reflect American domesticity. Cost: $9/8. Mies van der Rohe’s McCormick House at Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Faheem Majeed: Unite | Through Apr 7, Mon-Thur 11 a.m. − 7 p.m., Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Art informed by civic-mindedness, community activism, and institutional racism as this former Chicago South Side builder breathes new life into materials like particle board, scrap metal and discarded billboards. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2321 | Rich Bartow: Things You Know But Cannot Explain | Through Apr 13, Mon, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tues, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Wed – Fri, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. A retrospective of 120 paintings, sculptures and prints by a prominent Native American artist. Schingoethe Art Gallery at Aurora University, 1315 Prairie St., Aurora. 630 844-7843 | 1917: Catalyst for the Modern Era | Through July 30, Mon – Fri, 9:30 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat − Sun, noon − 4 p.m.

An exhibit about WWI and its century-long aftermath, with military artifacts. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 520-4941 | Donna Castellanos: Rescuer of Once Loved Things | Mar 4 – May 6, Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. Elmhurst artist presents a bold, hands-on exhibit where everyday and castoff items are incorporated into paintings, sculpture, wearable art and jewelry. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | National Juried Exhibition for Album Cover Art | Mar 9 − Apr 6, Mon − Fri, 1 - 5 p.m., Sat, 1 − 4 p.m. A mash-up of art and music culture, this exhibit celebrates Columbia Records 70th anniversary of the 1968 release of its first microgroove 33.3 rpm vinyl 12” record. Oak Park Art League, 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park. 708 386-9853 | LeRoy Neiman Golf Collection | Mar 9 − Apr 8, Tue − Fri, 10 a.m. − 9 p.m., Mon & Sat, 10 a.m. − 6 p.m., and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Popular American artist, known for “Pop Art” characterized by vibrant color and dramatic brushwork in images of sporting events. Schoenherr Gallery at North Central College, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 637-7469

School, with floats, bands, dancers, pipers and more.

Downtown Naperville. www.wsirish.org | St. Charles St. Patrick's Day Parade | Sat, Mar 10, 10 a.m. Thousands line Main St. for a parade of jazz musicians, celtic pipe bands, floats and veterans groups.

Downtown St. Charles. www.downtownstcharles.org | Elmhurst 22nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade | Sat, Mar 10, noon. Jazz music, brass bands, marching units,floats and animated characters strut the streets.

Downtown Elmhurst. .www.elmhurstpatsparade.com | Plainfield Hometown Irish Parade | Sun, Mar 11, 1 p.m. Floats, marching bands and fun. Downtown Plainfield Historic District. www.plainfieldirishparade.org | One Magical Evening | Sat, Mar 24, 7 p.m. Elgin native T.J.. Regul, The Quad City Magician, performs magic and comedy with former Las Vegas magician David Casas. Cost: $20. Steel Beam Theatre , 111 W Main St., St. Charles. www.steelbeamtheatre.com or 630 587- 8521

KIDS | Gnome Hunt | Through Mar 31, Sat − Sun, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Explore the Children's Garden by finding all the hidden gnomes. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. www.mortonarb.org or 630 968-0074 | Disney's Beauty & the Beast, Jr. | Mar 2 − 11, Fri − Sat, 7 p.m. and Sat – Sun, 3 p.m.; Also, Wed Mar 7– 8, Wed – Thur, 7 p.m. No 7 p.m. show on Sat, Mar 10. Musical retelling of the classic tale. Cost: $15/10. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380 | 11th Annual Chords for Kids Concert | Sat, Mar 3, 7 p.m. A concert for children with special needs, with classical music as well as popular tunes. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Disney’s High School Musical, Jr. | Mar 10 − 18, Sat, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m., Sun, 6 p.m. A youth production of a kid-friendly story of teen romance and basketball.

Cost: $12/10. BrightSide Theatre, Meiley Swallow Hall, 31 S Ellsworth St., Naperville. 630 447-8497 Photo courtesy of Anderson’s Bookshop

OUT&ABOUT

FAMILY & GENERAL | Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing | Through Mar 18, 7 a.m. − sunset. Rent snowshoes/skis to explore among snow-capped trees. Cost: $17/11. Visitors Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Ill Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Forest Park St. Patrick's Day Parade | Sat, Mar 3, 1 p.m. Bagpipers, Irish dancers, marching bands and a unit from Medinah Shriners. Madison St., Forest Park. www.exploreforestpark.com | Dundee: Thom McNamee St. Patrick's Day Parade | Sat, Mar 10, 10 a.m. Shenanigans at the Grandstand on River St., with a pet parade, circus acts, Irish dancers and a corned beef contest. www.dundeestpats.com | Naperville St. Patrick's Day Parade | Sat, Mar 10, 10 a.m. The parade kicks off from Naperville North High

Mar 9 CHELSEA CLINTON Former First Daughter presents She Persisted Around the World at Anderson’s Bookshop, La Grange. Call 708 582-6353

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| Snoopy and the Red Baron | Mar 23 − Jun 17. Tue − Sun 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. In a traveling exhibit from the Charles M. Schulz Museum, the cartoon aviator is showcased in Peanuts comic strips, alongside objects that illucidate the air battles of WWI. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Thousands line Main St. for a parade of jazz musicians, celtic pipe bands, floats and veterans groups in Downtown St. Charles. Visit www.downtownstcharles.org

| My Heart in a Suitcase | Mon, Mar 20, 10 a.m. The story of a family escaping Nazi Germany. Cost: $6. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600

HISTORY | Freedom: A History of US | Through Mar 11, Tue − Fri, 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. A touring exhibit of rare items related to America’s struggle for freedom, including a printed draft of the U.S. Constitution.

Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. www. elmhursthistory.org or 630 833-1457 | Death in DuPage | Through June 24, Mon − Fri 9:30 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat − Sun noon − 4 p.m. Explore mourning traditions from the settlement period through

| Living History: Mamie Eisenhower | Sat, Mar 24, 3 p.m. Living history actor Ellie Carlson portrays Mamie Eisenhower, America's First Lady from 1953 to 1961.

Registration required. McCormick House at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | How Women Helped Build Chicago | Sun, Mar 25, 3 p.m. McCormick House docent Laurie Russell describes how women helped shape the city. Registration required. Freedom Hall at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162

Photo courtesy of Anderson’s Bookshop

| Guess How Much I Love You/I Love My Little Storybook | Wed, Mar 21, 9:45 & 11:30 a.m. Mermaid Theatre (Nova Scotia) uses story puppets. McAninch Art Center, 426 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2220

| Living History: Amelia Earhart | Sat, Mar 10, 3 p.m.

Living history actor Leslie Goddard portrays the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic. Registration required. McCormick House at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | How Corn Changed Itself and Then Changed Everything Else | Thur, Mar 22, 7 p.m. Cynthia Clampitt introduces corn's evolution from a meagre cereal crop..

DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 510-4941

Mar 10

| Harry The Dirty Dog | Sun, Mar 11, 3 p.m. ArtsPower National Touring Theatre performs the classic picture story. Cost: $12/6. Pfeiffer Hall at North Central College, 310 E Benton Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469

the Victorian Era. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St., Wheaton. 630 510-4941

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YOU GOT OLDER

Photo by Michael Brosilow

OUT&ABOUT

| Debra Miller: Jane Austen Speaks | Sun, Apr 8, 3 p.m.

An actress portrays the 19th century novelist and social commentator. Cost: $18. Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Durham Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-7200

HOME & GARDEN | Vegetable & Seed Starting Day at The Growing Place | Sat, Mar 3, 11 a.m. Expert vegetable gardener provides on growing prolific plants. Cost: $5. The Growing Place, 2000 Montgomery Road, Aurora. 630 355-4000

Wor th Going Downtown For A Midsummer Night's Dream Through Mar 10. A 75-minute abridged version of the Bard's comedy-romance performed at Chicago's bold new theatre venue. Cost: $34. The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, 800 East Grand Ave. 312 595-5600 P!nk Fri & Sat, Mar. 9 & 10, 7:30 p.m. Edgy international pop star, songwriter, dancer and activist performs as part of the Beautiful Trauma World Tour. United Center, 1901 W Madison St. 312 455-4500 You Got Older Through Mar 11.

An irreverent yet touching dark comedy by up-and-coming playwright Clare Barron, directed

by Jonathan Berry. Cost: $89/20.

Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. 312 335-1650 The Wolves Through Mar 11.

From the safety of the suburbs, a girls soccer team navigates life's big questions and wages its own tiny battles. Cost: $35/10.

Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St. 312 443-3800 Cosi Fan Tuti Through Mar 28.

An audience favorite, Mozart's romantic comedy explores risk, love and faithfulness. Cost: $299/17. Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker Dr. 312 332-2244

Sleeping Beauty Mar 3 – 4, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Les Ballets de Monte Carlo performs Marius Petipa’s classic. Cost: $120/41. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50E Congress Pkwy. 312 341-2300 Pretty Woman Mar 13 – Apr 15.

Pre-Broadway world premiere of the musical based on the hit romantic movie. Cost: $282/32.

Oriental Theater, 24 W. Randolph St. 312-782-2004 The Eagles Mar 14, 8 p.m.

Iconic American rock group performs greatest hits and new material. United Center, 1901 W Madison St. 312 455-4500 .

Faust Mar 3 – 21. French tenor Benjamin Bernheim stars in Gounod's masterpiece of a man who sells his soul. Cost: $249/20. Lyric Opera, 20 N Upper Wacker Dr. 312 332-2244.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: Revelations Mar 7 – 11.Celebrated contemporary dance company performs its signature masterpiece, an homage to African-American culture. Cost: $120/41. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy. 800 982-2787

Mary Stuart Through Apr 15.

Friedrich Schiller's classic play about the clash between Elizabeth I of England, and her jailed cousin Mary, Queen of Scots. Cost: $68/48. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E Grand Ave. 312 595-5600

An Enemy of the People Mar 10 – Apr 15. Henrik Ibsen’s master work as directed by Robert Falls concerns the combative struggle of politics and ethics surrounding the contamination of a town’s water supply. Cost: $70/35 Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St. 312 334-7777

Sebastian Maniscalco Mar 2 – 3, 7 & 9:30 p.m. A tour stop by last year's "Just for Laughs" stand-up Comedian of the Year.

Cost: $683/175. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St. 312 462-6300

Just Dance Live: Pilot Tour Thur – Sun, Mar 15 – 18. The #1 music video game comes to life in an immersive, staged production where the audience dances along with game

characters. Cost: $45. Aon Ballroom at Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave. 866 468-3399 2018 Chicago Flower & Garden Show: Flowertales Mar 14 – 18. Attracting 40,000plus visitors, the show welcomes spring with garden displays, presentations and demos. Cost: $19/10. Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave. www.chicagoflower.com The Magic of Adam Trent Mar 16 - 17. Direct from Broadway, the master illusionist performs a two-hour spectacle of magic, music and comedy.

Cost: $193/35. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St. 312 384-1502 On Your Feet! Mar 21 – Jun 3.

A new musical celebrating the rise of Emilio and Gloria Estefan from Cuban roots to international stardom. Cost: $172/52. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St. 312 384-1502.

14th Annual Good Food EXPO Mar 23 – 24, 8:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Shop, eat and network to support sustainable, humane and local food sources, featuring celebrity chefs Rick Bayless and Sarah Grueneberg as well as notable food experts. UIC Forum, 725 W Roosevelt Rd. Chicago Symphony Orchestra Sat, Mar 24, 7 p.m. Riccardo Muti conducts Schubert Mass in E-Flat Major. Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave. 312 294-3000 Justin Timberlake Mar 27 – 28, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Awardwinning international pop star and former member of NSYNC. United Center, 1901 W Madison St. 312 455-4500

| Get Started with Edible Gardening | Sat, Mar 3, 1 - 4 p.m. Learn the basics of growing your own food, including what and where to plant. Cost: $46/39.

Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630-719-2468 | Antique Apple Tree Grafting Seminar | Sun, Mar 4, 1:30 p.m. Make three grafts to take home for planting.

Reservations required. Cost: $30. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | Cantigny Greenhouse Tour | Tue, Mar 6, 11 a.m. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the park’s spring bedding routine. Visitors Center, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Fox Valley Antiques Spring Show & Sale | Sat – Sun, Mar 10 – 11, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Chicago Suburban Antiques Dealers Association hosts 55 dealers from 15 states. Cost: $2. Kane Country Fairgrounds, 525 S Randall Rd., St. Charles. www.csada.com | Home & Garden Show | Sat – Sun, Apr 7 – 8, 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m. , 11 a.m. Experience 40,000 sq. ft. of the latest in home improvement products and services, with free seminars, wine tastings and live cooking shows.

The Players Sports & Events Center, 1740 Quincy Ave., Naperville. 630 953-2500

FASHION & BRIDAL | Spring Style Weekend | Fri − Sun, Mar 2 − 4. Three full days of fashion, food and fun. Various locations in downtown Naperville. www.downtownnaperville.com | Geneva Wedding Walk | Sun, Mar 4, 11 a.m. − 3:30 p.m. A fun-filled day of discovering wedding venues and boutique shops. Cost: $45/30. Herrington Inn & Spa, 15 S River Ln., Geneva. 630 208-7433 | Windy City Wedding Show | Sun, Mar 11, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. A day of planning with convenient one-stop shopping for everything bridal. Cost: $20. Embassy Suites Naperville, 1823 Abriter Court, Naperville. 949 830-2952 | Bridal Show | Sat, Mar 18, 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Everything you need to plan a perfect wedding. Wilder Mansion, 211 S Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 998-8186 | Luxury Bridal Expo and Fashion Show | Sun, Mar 25, 11:30 − 4 p.m. Vendors offer ideas for décor, cakes, gowns, DJs, and more. Cost: $25/10. Abbington Banquets, 3S002 IL Route 53, Glen Ellyn. 847 428-3320, ext. 225

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FOOD & DRINK

guides to accommodate varying paces. Cost: $15/10.

Registration required. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

| La Grange Restaurant Week | Through Mar 8. An opportunity to try many dining experiences, with valuepriced menus at participating venues. Various locations in downtown La Grange. www.lgba.com | Jazz Thaw | Sat, Mar 3. Sip, sizzle and swing away the winter blues at any of a dozen host restaurants, with free live music presented by WDCB 90.9 FM. Multiple locations in downtown Oak Park. www.downtownoakpark.net | Rosemont Restaurant Week | Mon − Sun, Mar 4 − 11.

Prix-fixe, three-course menus from dozens of participating restaurants. www.rosemontrestaurantweek.com | Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner | Thur, Mar 4 − 11., 5:30 p.m. An Irish feast, with live music and cocktails.

St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, 2241 Route 59, West Chicago. 630 231 3100 | Batavia Restaurant Madness Week | Sun − Sat, Mar 25 - 31. An opportunity to try new tastes at special discounts at participating restaurants. Multiple locations in downtown Batavia. 630 761-3528

SPORTS | USA Gymnastics Triple Cup Weekend | Mar 2 − 3, Fri − Sat, 7 p.m. Teams and individual gymnasts from around the world. Cost: $149/89. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy, Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | Monster Jam Triple Threat Series | Mar 2 − 5, Fri 7 p.m., Sat 1 & 7 p.m., Sun, 1 & 6:30 p.m. and Mon, 7 p.m.

World-class drivers compete and perform freestyle tricks. Cost: $75/25. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Windy City Bulls | Wed, Mar 7, Fri, Mar 16, Sat, Mar 17, Tue, Mar 20, Sat, Mar 24, 7 p.m. and Sun Mar 11, 2 p.m. The Bulls' newest D-league team plays various opponents.

Cost: $110/17. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | 8th Annual St. Paddy's Day 5K | Sat, Mar 10, 8 a.m.

Presented by Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise, this with 2,500-participant race follows the route of the St. Patrick's Day parade. Cost: $35/25. Registration required. Jackson Ave. and West St., Naperville. www.stpaddysday5k.org | East Dundee Kilted 5K Run or Walk| Sat, Mar 10, 8:30 a.m. Voted one of the top 50 themed 5Ks by RunnersGoal.com, proceeds benefit F.I.S.H. Foods and Friends of the Fox. Cost: $55/35. Registration required.

296 Williams Pl., East Dundee. www.dundeepats.com | Chicago Wolves | Sun, Mar 11, 3 p.m., Sat, Mar 17, 7 p.m. , Sun Mar 18, 3 p.m. Sun Mar 25, 5 p.m. Wed Mar 28, 7 p.m. and Sat Mar 31, 7 p.m. Chicago's AHL ice hockey team plays against their opponents at the home rink.

Cost: $41/11. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

LITERATURE | Tom Clavin | Thur, Mar 1, 7 p.m. New York Times bestselling author signs copies of his latest mystery novel of the American west, Dodge City. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville 630 355-2665 | Chelsea Clinton | Fri, Mar 9, 7 p.m. Former First Daughter presents She Persisted Around the World, a celebration of 13 women who have used their voices to create change. Anderson's Bookshop La Grange, 26 S La Grange Rd., La Grange. 708 582-6353 | Emily Belden | Thur, Mar 22, 7 p.m. Local Elmhurst/ Chicago writer introduces her first novel, Hot Mess, as reviewed on page 20. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville 630 355-2665

LECTURES | Tea & Talk Art Lecture Series — John Hitchcock: Printmaking & Activism | Sun, Mar 4, 2 p.m. University of Wisconsin professor talks about politically motivated printmaking, popular culture and electronic media.

Komechak Art Gallery, Kindlon Bldg., Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 829-1873 | Preet Bharara: Stay Tuned | Wed, Mar 7, 7 p.m.

U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York from 2009 to 2017, who earned a reputation as “the man who terrifies Wall Street,” converses with Katrina Sifferd.

Cost: $10. Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. www.elmhurst.edu | Georgia O’Keeffe: An American Master | Sun, Mar 11, 4 p.m. Art historian Jeff Mishur discusses O'Keefe's art, from her innovative abstractions of the 1910s and 1920s to her investigations of architecture, landscape and flowers. Cost: $10/8. Century Memorial Chapel at Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Dr. Manu Prakash: Frugal Science | Fri, Mar 16, 8 p.m. Professor of Bioengineering at Stanford University talks about the impact of cost constraints on scientific and engineering developments, particularly in the field of global health. Cost: $7. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. & Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Civic Awareness Series: Gender Issues in Politics | Thur, Mar 22, 7 p.m. Michelle Fadeley, president of the Illinois chapter of the National Organization for Women, leads a Q&A and discussion over coffee.

Registration required. McCormick House at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. 630 260-8162 Information is as accurate as possible, but times and dates may change and events may be canceled. To

| Arboretum Running Tour | Sat, Mar 24, 8 a.m.

Strap on a pair of running shoes for an informative running tour along the 5K route on the East Side, with

have an event included in this guide, send information two months in advance to: Out & About, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or wsl@westsuburbanliving.net.

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Sister Cities How west suburban towns are making connections and sharing cultures with counterparts in sibling communities around the world

by Jay Copp

H

Photos courtesy of Ray Cowley

osting five French cyclists in her home for nearly two weeks last summer gave Julie Nyquist a newfound appreciation of Glen Ellyn and Americans.

The cyclists took part in the Tour of Lake Ellyn, part of a regional racing series. Race officials invited them because they were from Le Bouscat, Sister City to Glen Ellyn. Nyquist, who lives on the racing route, took them for a stroll of Lake Ellyn soon after they arrived.

People walking their dogs stopped to meet them and chat.

Joggers said hello. Nearby cyclists who had heard they had arrived rode over to introduce themselves. “Their mouths were hanging open. They could not believe how friendly people were. This never

Wheaton resident Teri Ash paid a memorable visit to namesake sister city Wheaton Aston in England (top) where she was able to interact with locals (above) over a game of dominoes at the neighborhood pub.

would have happened in France,” says Nyquist.

Teri Ash was on the receiving end of a warm welcome when she visited Wheaton Aston in England, one of Wheaton’s two sister cities. She enjoyed a pint and a game of dominoes in a pub, marveled at a bell ringing lesson in a 12th-century parish church and fielded questions from awed preschoolers as if she were an American celebrity. “The kids were just so charming. Overall, it was just a great experience,” says Ash, chairperson of Wheaton’s Sister City Commission.

A product of the Eisenhower era, Sister Cities may seem quaint today. With jet travel and social media, the world has shrunk into a global village. Other nations are not so exotic or remote any longer. But for the half dozen or so western suburbs with Sister Cities, the cultural exchanges continue to enrich lives and broaden horizons. The mindset of those involved goes well beyond a global village: they think in terms of a global family.

Ike Began It West Chicago’s Sister City relationship came about because of two brothers. Bodo Gsedl of Germany came the United States in the 1980s as an exchange student, which led to his brother, Uwe, visiting, which led to a fateful kiss on a dance floor. The tour guide for an evening out on the town for Bodo and Uwe was Kristina Howard, a friend of a German teacher at West Chicago High School. “She took the initiative and kissed me on the neck,” says Uwe, who married Tina and moved from Germany to West Chicago in 1992.

If two people can bridge cultures, so can two towns,

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the brothers realized, and in 1999 West Chicago city officials signed municipalities promote but generally don’t finance Sister City a Sister City agreement with Taufkirchen, where Bodo lived. exchanges. Youth groups, choral groups and others who travel The fact that West Chicago was a German stronghold since overseas fundraise to pay for travel. Gains are not measured in the 1860s, when so many immigrants settled near the Union Pacific greenbacks. “It’s educational. It’s eye opening. It’s a beautiful railroad tracks that the area was known as “Old Heidelberg,” was thing,” says Naperville Councilwoman Patty Gustin of her city’s duly noted in the original agreement. longstanding partnership with Since then residents of the two Nitra, Slovakia. cities, including youth groups, have regularly crossed the pond and West Chicago/Taufkirchen, learned the ways and wonders of Germany another culture, fulfilling the original With yearly visits, the two cities goal of the Sister City movement. In have one of the most active Sister 1957, President Dwight Eisenhower, City relationships. Last year 21 high who knew a thing or two about the school students and chaperones from ravages of war, officially established West Chicago visited Taufkirchen, Sister Cities International, not as part a 45-minute drive from Munich.

West Chicago has an especially active Sister City program, of the U.S. government but as an In 2013 the high school jazz band including frequent student exchanges. In 2013, for example, the entity in which the current president West Chicago High School jazz band (below) visited Taufkirchen, went there. Twenty-two high school and in 2016, West Chicago hosted 22 students (above in front of serves as honorary chairperson. The the “Bean” in Chicago) from its German Sister City. students from Taufkirchen came here idea was to create bonds between in 2016 and a group of adults visited peoples, building peace and goodwill. in 2014.

Eisenhower formalized a growing Visiting Germans are escorted network of relationships that had to expected sites such as Millennium sprung up on their own as Americans Park and Michigan Avenue. But they sought to ease the suffering after also enjoy seeing ordinary places and World War II. The first known Sister comparing them to what’s back at Cities were Dunkirk, New York, and home. “They see the police station, Dunkirk, France, in 1946. Europe the fire station, our city museum,” was the common target for American says Becky Hall of West Chicago. goodwill, but in 1955 St. Paul, The same principle holds true Minnesota, paired with struggling Nagasaki, Japan, one of two cities for West Chicagoans visiting Taufkirchen, which, though it does devastated by a U.S. nuclear bomb a decade earlier. have a castle with a moat, is not a tourist town full of cute homes Today Sister Cities International counts more than 2,000 with brown wooden shutters. All the better. West Chicagoans partnerships between more than 500 U.S. cities and towns with mingle with regular Germans in typical homes and settings. partners in 145 nations. When Sister Cities partner, city officials “I’m fascinated by ordinary things,” says Hall, who has visited often cite potential commercial advantages. Once in a blue moon Taufkirchen five times and stayed in people’s homes. That’s what a financial windfall does happen, such as when San Antonio, Texas Sister City visitors get to see — though what’s ordinary here is a bit opened a Toyota manufacturing plant thanks to its relationship different there. The homes in Taufkirchen are cleverly designed with its Japanese Sister City of Kumamoto and when an with a central staircase that leads to living space on each floor. engineering company in Lakeland, Florida, signed a $1.3 billion The star of the kitchen is a device that Hall calls “an Instant Pot deal to design a theme park for its Sister City in China. on steroids” — a $2,000 machine with superstar cooking capabilities.

But business gains typically are modest, if they occur at all, Also memorable is Germans’ commitment to the environment. as is the case with the western suburbs that are Sister Cities. It’s not “They’re extremely devoted to recycling. There’s thermal heat, a lot as if any funds are lost or misspent. Other than some token sums, of composting. They have a recycling center to dream of. They have WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MARCH 2018 33

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Sister Cities

Photo by Lorraine Nieland

containers just the right size for plastic CD covers, glass, rags, how to serve battered wives and abused children. The Naperville corks, everything,” says Hall, a technical writer.

Exchange Club paid his airfare.

The Germans also eat “much better. They don’t use a lot Nitra has reaped other tangible benefits. Its police station of processed food,” she says. was tucked away in a dark basement, giving it the aura of being The best part is staying with a local family. “They treat you secretive and menacing. Nitra officials heeded Naperville officials’ like a relative — with lots of warmth and kindness,” says Hall. advice to relocate the station to a more visible, more accessible “I’ve traveled to Europe before. This is so superior to average venue, says former longtime mayor George Pradel. In 1999, tourist travel. I can’t tell you how different it is. I went to Vienna members of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Naperville raised and saw the big tourist attractions. That’s great, but you don’t funds for construction and then traveled to Nitra to help build get a sense of the people.” a new Lutheran church.

The trips abroad are especially meaningful for young people.

Given that Nitra is considerably materially poorer than “A lot of them have never been out of the country, except maybe Naperville, the impulse has been for the latter to aid the former. for Mexico,” says Hall. “One girl who went on the jazz trip said, The city even once tried to facilitate the opening of a wine business ‘Now I have a friend in Germany. My life will never be the same.’” from Nitra in Naperville. “The tax laws made it prohibitive,” Sister City participants says Pradel. “As far as us discover you travel thousands (our businesses) going there, of miles only to realize surface I’m not sure how that would differences mask common really work.” values. “We’re all doing the Last year, Naperville City same thing — trying to make Council denied funding a nice life for ourselves with for a celebration of the 25th friends and family,” says Hall. anniversary of the Sister City “You realize that people relationship. And the Sister City somewhere else are not that Commission often has unfilled much different than us. They seats. Both facts are indicative In 2016, the Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale visited Glen Ellyn’s Sister City, Le Bouscat, France, of the deep but not broad are no different from us than and performed in a joint concert with Choeur Pizzicati, a local community choir. our neighbors are.” support of the Sister Cities concept. In Naperville, and often elsewhere, relatively few residents Naperville/Nitra, Slovakia know much about their Sister City, and fewer participate. But More than 6,000 years old, Nitra is the fourth-largest city in those who take part attest to its rewards.

Slovakia with 80,000 people. Its majestic castle, cathedral and city Often a great part of the appeal is that participants had hall exude Old World charm. But when Naperville residents visit, international ties well before involvement with the Sister City. they feel at home. There is Naperville Street, Naperville Park, and, The bonds between cities that foster a global family began within quite coincidentally, a riverwalk. families. Some people, thanks to their family circumstances, are Just as Eisenhower envisioned partnerships to forge peace, 25 predisposed to international kinship. Gustin’s family fled Lithuania years ago Naperville became a Sister City with Nitra as it emerged and abandoned its peat moss business, a vital source of fuel, during from the grip of Soviet domination. (Naperville has also been a World War II. Nevertheless, her grandfather managed to hide the Sister City of Patzcuaro, Mexico, since 2010 — that relationship family’s Jewish nanny from the Nazis, a feat acknowledged at the is less active.) Since the agreement, there has been a long history Holocaust Museum in Washington. of mutual visits by city officials and student groups.

Gustin, 58, who grew up on Chicago’s South Side, has a Slovakians were not accustomed to participating in government brother who married an English woman, another brother who or banding together in not-for-profit groups and clubs, says married an Argentinean, a third brother who married a woman Gustin. The Slovakians learn about the mechanisms of selfwho is Hispanic and black, and a sister who married a man from government by spending time in Naperville. Nitra also began to India. Her son married a German, and her grandchildren speak address social problems that until then had been largely ignored. both English and German. “I come from an international A psychologist from Nitra spent four weeks in Naperville learning family,” she says.

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Photos courtesy of Stefan Fridén

The two Wheatons exchange calendars every year. Wheaton Wheaton/Karlskoga, Sweden Aston displays, as Cowley calls them, “Yankee doodles” (American and Wheaton Aston, England banners with messages) at its summer festival, and Wheaton, On Valentine’s Day, Teri Ash was out and about encouraging USA, residents are encouraged to “speak and eat British-style” on those she encountered in Wheaton to say “kyss mig!” That’s Commonwealth Day in March. A few years ago Mayor Mike Gresk Swedish for “kiss me.” Those who complied were rewarded with traveled to England on his own dime and visited churches, the a chocolate kiss. At the Taste of Wheaton in the summer, she’s the village pub and Wheaton Aston’s historic school, in addition to a one waving a Swedish flag and wearing a traditional Swedish hat. side trip to Leicester Cathedral for the reburial of King Richard III. A former German teacher and translator, Ash, 64, is Wheaton’s Yet sometimes the #1 cheerleader for its long and relationship between the two productive relationship with Wheatons — and the one with Karlskoga — they became Karlskoga — sputters. Cowley’s Sister Cities in 1973. The Wheaton Connections Facebook most recent exchange was last group “has yet to take off. I had April when 16 young hockey hoped that social media might players, hosted by Wheaton get more people talking.”

West Hockey Club skated “There is an ebb and flow to over. They played mini-golf at The Wheaton West Hockey Club recently hosted a series of games with a team the relationships,” acknowledges Rotary Park, toured downtown from its Sister City in Kalrskoga, Sweden.

Ash. “It can be frustrating because when we get people here to with commentary from the DuPage Historical Society and interact it can be tough to get people there interested and vice versa.” devoured ice cream at Kimmer’s —“very good ice cream,” recalls Exchanges that do happen can be memorable. On her trip to team coach Stefan Fridén.

England, locals escorted Ash to the church in Little Malvern, where They also played a little hockey. There was no miracle on ice her parents, both in the U.S. Army, were married after World War II. — the fast-skating Swedes won all three games. “Our boys put up “It was neat to be where my family started. The coincidence — Little a good fight,” says Ash. “It’s tough to play against boys who have Malvern is just 60 miles from Wheaton Aston — floored me.” played together for years.”

Adds Fridén, “The thing that got to me the most was the people in Wheaton were extremely welcoming. We were really impressed by our host families. I think it’s very important for young people to see and live in another culture. It’s very enriching.

I got an idea that my daughter’s football (soccer) team will go to Wheaton, but we will see about that.”

Also on the trip was Ylva Elofsson, 54, communications manager for Karlskoga. “Wheaton is a beautiful, genuine, Midwestern small town that really made us feel welcome,” she says. “Sister Cities are a great way to learn from each other and to understand, despite many differences, we are quite similar in many respects.”

In 2004, Ash used her own funds to visit Karlskoga, an attractive lakeside city of 30,500. Officials loaned her a bike, and she gamely pedaled the city and outskirts.

Wheaton partnered with its namesake in England in 1990 after Ken Harris of England reached out to the Illinois town upon noticing his Bible was published there. Legendary Wheaton librarian Sarah Meisels dipped into her own funds and paid for Harris and his wife to visit.

The quiet English hamlet has less than 2,500 people. “Our two cities could not be more different,” says Ray Cowley of England.

Glen Ellyn/Le Bouscat, France In 2016, two years after the two towns became Sister Cities, the Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale sang at a lovely, old church in Le Bouscat, a suburb of Bordeaux. It was the chorale’s last stop on a France-Spain tour.

Music bridged cultures, and various cultures merged together.

The Chorale performed in English with some Latin. A community choir from Le Bouscat then sang in Latin with some French.

The two choirs combined for the final two songs, sent to the French choir in advance. They combined on “Ave Verum Corpus” and “Soon Ah Will be Done,” an African-American spiritual.

The singing didn’t stop after the on-stage performance. In an impromptu sing-off, each group took turns singing snatches of traditional songs. The literal harmony among nations ended with both groups performing the French and American national anthems.

Enjoying its cuisine is a minor but memorable benefit of partnering with a French city. A post-concert reception included fois gras, canapés and petites fours, washed down with Bordeaux wine.

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BE ST OF THE WEST

When it comes to knowing what’s BEST in the western suburbs, we go right to the source — our readers.

Following are your choices for the BEST the western suburbs have to offer in almost 90 categories — a very impressive list, indeed.

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• Atwater’s at The Herrington Inn & Spa Photo courtesy of Elan Photography

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Dining BEST STEAK BEST: Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Oak Brook and Rosemont 2nd: Morton’s The Steakhouse in Naperville, Rosemont and Schaumburg 3rd: FoxFire Restaurant in Geneva Other Favorites: Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse in Downers Grove; Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse in Lombard and Rosemont; Michael Jordan’s in Oak Brook; Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille in Oak Brook; Ruth’s Chris Steak House in South Barrington; Sullivan’s Steakhouse in Naperville; and Wildfire in Oak Brook and Schaumburg

BEST SEAFOOD BEST: Parker’s Restaurant & Bar in Downers Grove 2nd: Chinn’s 34th Street Fishery in Lisle 3rd: Reel Club in Oak Brook Other Favorites: Catch 35 in Naperville; Kona Grill in Oak Brook; Pappadeaux in Westmont; and Seasons 52 in Oak Brook

BEST NEW RESTAURANT BEST: Sixty Four – A Wine Bar in Naperville 2nd: Maize + Mash in Glen Ellyn 3rd: Livia in Elmhurst Other Favorites: Hampton Social in Burr Ridge; Next Whiskey Bar in Lisle; 3 Corners Grill & Tap in Downers Grove; and Wild Onion Tied House in Oak Park

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT BEST: Atwater’s at The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva 2nd: Niche Restaurant in Geneva 3rd: Ivy in Wheaton Other Favorites: Adelle’s Fine American Restaurant in Wheaton; Fiora’s in Geneva; Hemmingway’s Bistro in Oak Park; and Patton House in Geneva

BEST RESTAURANT IF MONEY IS NO OBJECT BEST: Atwater’s at The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva 2nd: The Capital Grille in Lombard and Rosemont 3rd: Niche in Geneva Other Favorites: Gibsons

Bar & Steakhouse in Oak Brook and Rosemont; Méson Sabika in Naperville; Ruth’s Chris Steak House in South Barrington; and Vie in Western Springs

BEST OUTDOOR DINING BEST: Maya Del Sol in Oak Park 2nd: Fiora’s in Geneva 3rd: TIE: Fuller House in Hinsdale; and Ivy in Wheaton Other Favorites: Adelle’s Fine American Restaurant in Wheaton; Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse in Oak Brook; and Meson Sabika in Naperville

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT BEST: Capri in Burr Ridge 2nd: Maggiano’s in Naperville, Oak Brook and Schaumburg 3rd: Villa Verone in Geneva

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Photo courtesy of Egg Harbor Café

BEST OF THE WEST

St. Charles; and Thipi Thai in Glen Ellyn and La Grange

Wine Bar in Naperville

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD BEST: Naf Naf Grill in Aurora, Naperville, Oakbrook Terrace and Rosemont 2nd: Jerusalem Café in Lombard and Oak Park 3rd: TIE: Grape Leaves in Oak Park; and Pinched Mediterranean Grill in Lombard

BEST IRISH PUB P

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Other Favorites: Clara’s in Woodridge; Gaetano’s in Batavia and Forest Park; Gia Mia in Geneva and Wheaton; Gatto’s in Downers Grove; Il Vicolo Trattoria in Oak Park; Francesca’s in multiple locations; and Tuscany in Oak Brook

BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT BEST: Mon Ami Gabi in Oak Brook 2nd: Suzette’s Creperie in Wheaton 3rd: Lea French Street Food in Oak Park Other Favorites: Hemingway’s Bistro in Oak Park; Tallgrass in Lockport; and Vie in Western Springs

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

• Egg Harbor Café 3rd: Chef Soon Contemporary Sushi in Woodridge Other Favorites: Hokkai in Glen Ellyn; Kona Grill in Oak Brook; Kyoto in Downers Grove; Nabuki in Hinsdale; Mr. Samurai Steak & Sushi in St. Charles; and Sushi Ukai in La Grange

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT BEST: Wild Ginger Sushi & Asian Cuisine in Hinsdale 2nd: Gen Hoe in Geneva 3rd: TIE: Bangkok Restaurant in Geneva; and Double Dragon Chinese & Japanese Cuisine in Lombard Other Favorites: Big Bowl in Schaumburg; P.F. Chang’s in Lombard; Shakou in

BEST: Ballydoyle Irish Pub in Aurora and Downers Grove 2nd: McNally’s Irish Pub in St. Charles 3rd: Claddagh Irish Pub in Geneva Other Favorites: Muldoon’s in Wheaton; O’Sullivan’s Public House in Forest Park; and Quigley’s Irish Pub in Naperville

BEST WINE BAR BEST: Cooper’s Hawk Winery in Burr Ridge, Naperville, Oak Park, South Barrington and St. Charles 2nd: D.O.C. Wine Bar in Lombard 3rd: Geneva Wine Cellars and Tasting Room in Geneva Other Favorites: Cellar Door in Downers Grove; Preservation in Geneva; and Sixty Four – A

BEST: Uncle Julio’s Mexican in Lombard, Naperville and Schaumburg 2nd: Bien Trucha in Geneva 3rd: Maya del Sol in Oak Park Other Favorites: Barbakoa in Downers Grove; New Rebozo in Oak Park; Mia’s Cantina in Downers Grove; and Yerbabuena Mexican Cuisine in Lisle

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH BEST: Allgauer’s at the Hilton Lisle/Naperville 2nd: Drury Lane in Oak Brook 3rd: Red Oak Room at Cantigny Other Favorites: Egg Harbor Café in multiple locations

BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST

Best Middle Eastern Food • Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill

BEST: Bien Trucha in Geneva 2nd: A Toda Madre in Glen Ellyn 3rd: Maya del Sol in Oak Park Other Favorites: Altiro Latin Fusion in Geneva and Oak Park; Mia’s Cantina in Downers Grove; New Rebozo in Oak Park; Pepe’s in multiple locations; Uncle Julio’s Mexican in Lombard, Naperville and Schaumburg; and Yerbabuena Mexican Cuisine in Lisle

BEST: Alter Brewing Company in Downers Grove 2nd: Two Brothers Tap House in Warrenville 3rd: Penrose Brewing Company in Geneva Other Favorites: Emmett’s Brewing Company in Downers Grove; Granite City Food & Brewery in Naperville; Kinslahger Brewing Company in Oak Park; and Stockholm’s in Geneva

BEST MARGARITAS

Photo courtesy of Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill

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BEST MICROBREWERY/ BREWPUB

BEST: Egg Harbor Café in multiple locations 2nd: Blueberry Hill Breakfast Café in multiple locations 3rd: Geneva Diner in Geneva Other Favorites: Blackberry Market in Glen Ellyn; Buttermilk in Geneva; Delia’s Kitchen in Oak Park; Honey-Jam Café in Bolingbrook and Downers Grove; Jam ‘n Jelly Cafe in Darien, Lemont and Woodridge; and Juicy-O in Downers Grove, Naperville and Willowbrook

BEST SUSHI

BEST BARBECUE

BEST: Sen Sushi Bar in Oak Park 2nd: Sushi House in multiple locations

BEST: Q BBQ in La Grange, Naperville and Oak Park 2nd: Steamboat BBQ in Wheaton

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Photo courtesy of Bien Trucha

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B 3rd: Uncle Bub’s BBQ in Westmont Other Favorites: Nobel House in Geneva; The Patio in Aurora, Bolingbrook, Darien and Lombard; and Real Urban Barbecue in Oak Brook

BEST PIZZA BEST: Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in multiple locations 2nd: Aurelio’s Pizza in multiple locations 3rd: Giordano’s Pizzeria in multiple locations Other Favorites: Angelo’s Pizza in Downers Grove; Brick’s Wood Fired Pizza in multiple locations; Charlie Fox’s Pizzeria & Eatery in St. Charles; Di Nico’s Pizza in Berwyn and La Grange; LaBarra in Lombard and RIverside;Papa’s Pizza Place in Bolingbrook and Woodridge; and Rosati’s Pizza in multiple locations

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BEST BURGER BEST: The Burger Local in Geneva 2nd: Fuller House in Hinsdale 3rd: Alfie’s Inn in Glen Ellyn Other Favorites: Country House in Clarendon Hills, Geneva and Lisle; DMK Burger Bar in Lombard and Oak Brook; Five Guys in multiple locations; Stockholm’s in Geneva; and The Burger Social in Wheaton

BEST HOT DOG BEST: Portillo’s in multiple locations 2nd: Happy Dog in West Chicago 3rd: Gene & Jude’s in River Grove Other Favorites: Big Guy’s Sausage Stand in Berwyn; Dips & Dogs in Hinsdale; Doggie Diner in Bolingbrook, Plainfield and Woodridge; Flip’s in Glen Ellyn; and Maxwell’s Hotdogs in West Dundee

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• Bien Trucha BEST PLACE FOR VEGETARIAN AND/OR HEALTHY FARE BEST: Munch in Oak Park 2nd: Seasons 52 in Oak Brook and Schaumburg 3rd: Grape Leaves Restaurant in Oak Park

BEST ICE CREAM OR DESSERT BEST: Oberweis in multiple locations 2nd: Graham’s Fine Chocolate & Ice Cream in Geneva and Wheaton 3rd: Kimmer’s Ice Cream in St. Charles and Wheaton Other Favorites: Andy’s Frozen Custard in Bolingbrook; The Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor in Forest Park; Colonial Cafe in multiple locations; and Every Day’s a Sundae in Downers Grove

BEST DONUTS

BEST: Dunkin’ Donuts

in multiple locations 2nd: Stan’s Donuts in Oak Brook 3rd: Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery in Downers Grove Other Favorites: Firecakes Donuts in Oak Park; and Kirschbaum’s Bakery in Western Springs

BEST DELI/ SANDWICH SHOP BEST: Jason’s Deli in Naperville, Oak Brook and Schaumburg 2nd: Josef’s Elegante Meats & Deli in Geneva 3rd: TIE: Berto’s Deli & Pasta Shop in Downers Grove and Frankie’s Deli in Lombard Other Favorites: Angelo’s Foods in Downers Grove; Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli in Carol Stream and West Chicago; Deane’s Market & Deli in Geneva; Jimmy John’s in multiple locations; and Schmaltz Deli in Naperville

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BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT BEST: 2Toots Train Whistle Grill in Bartlett, Glen Ellyn and Naperville 2nd: Red Robin in multiple locations 3rd: The Junction Diner in Forest Park Other Favorites: Chuck E. Cheese’s in multiple locations; and Gatto’s In Downers Grove

BEST FISH FRY

Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery BEST COFFEEHOUSE BEST: Graham’s 318 Coffee House in Geneva 2nd: Café La Fortuna in Hinsdale and Willowbrook 3rd: Arcedium Coffeehouse in St. Charles Other Favorites: Addis Cafe in Oak Park; Brewed Awakening Café in Westmont; Buzz Cafe in Oak Park; Counter Coffee in Forest Park; My Half of the Sky in Wheaton; and River City Roasters in Wheaton

BEST TEA ROOM/ TEA HOUSE

BEST: Little Owl in Geneva 2nd: Village Tavern & Grill in Carol Stream 3rd: Towne Tap in Warrenville Other Favorites: Ashbury’s at Boughton Ridge in Bolingbrook; and Wheatstack in Lisle

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR OR PUB BEST: Fuller House in Hinsdale 2nd: Bar Louie in multiple locations 3rd: TIE: Poor Phil’s Bar & Grill in Oak Park and Stockholm’s in Geneva Other Favorites: Hamburger Mary’s in Oak Park; Hillgrove Tap in Western Springs; Nobel House in Geneva; and York Tavern in Oak Brook

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BEST: Pinecone Cottage in Downers Grove 2nd: The Little Traveler in Geneva 3rd: Culinary Teas in Downers Grove Other Favorites: All Chocolate Kitchen in Geneva; Drake Hotel in Oak Brook; Emerson Creek Pottery & Tearoom in Oswego; and Townhouse Books Café in St. Charles

BEST CHEAP EATS BEST: Nando’s Peri Peri in Naperville, Oak Brook and Oak Park 2nd: Culver’s in multiple locations 3rd: TIE: McAlister’s Deli in Bloomingdale, Elgin, Geneva and Naperville; and Portillo’s in multiple locations

Activities & Entertainment

Other Favorites: FitzGerald’s in Berwyn; Morton Arboretum in Lisle; RiverEdge Park in Aurora; and Wire in Berwyn

FAVORITE TV SHOW

BEST FARMER’S MARKET

BEST: This Is Us 2nd: Stranger Things 3rd: The Crown Other Favorites: Schitt’s Creek, Shameless, Blue Bloods, The Big Bang Theory, The Walking Dead, Chicago Fire, Game of Thrones and Will & Grace

BEST: Wheaton French Market 2nd: Oak Park Farmer’s Market 3rd: TIE: Downers Grove Farmers Market; and Geneva French Market Other Favorites: Batavia, Hinsdale and Naperville

BEST AREA MUSEUM

BEST FESTIVAL OR FAIR

BEST: Cantigny Park in Wheaton 2nd: DuPage Children’s Museum in Naperville 3rd: Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park

BEST: Swedish Days in Geneva 2nd: Ribfest in Naperville 3rd: Rotary Grove Fest in Downers Grove Other Favorites: Eyes to the Skies in Lisle; Festival of the Vine in Geneva; and Scarecrow Fest in St. Charles

BEST MOVIE THEATER BEST: Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove 2nd: AMC Yorktown in Lombard 3rd: Lake Theatre in Oak Park Other Favorites: Cinemark at Seven Bridges in Woodridge; The Glen in Glen Ellyn; Hollywood Palms in Naperville; iPic in Bolingbrook; Ogden 6 in Naperville; Marcus Theatres in Addison; Regal Cantera Stadium 17 in Warrenville; and Studio Movie Grill in Wheaton

BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC BEST: Arcada Theatre in St. Charles 2nd: EvenFlow in Geneva 3rd: TIE: McAninch Arts Center in Glen Ellyn; and the Paramount Theatre in Aurora

• Oberweis Photo courtesy of Oberweis

Photo courtesy of Ingram’s Busy Bee Bakery

Best Bakery

BEST MOVIE IN PAST YEAR BEST: Ladybird 2nd: TIE: Star Wars: The Last Jedi; and Wonder 3rd: Baby Driver Other Favorites: The Big Sick; The Darkest Hour; and Wonder Woman

BEST BOOK YOU’VE READ LATELY BEST: A Gentleman in Moscow 2nd: Little Fires Everywhere 3rd: Homegoing

BEST CRAFT OR ART SHOW BEST: Geneva Arts Fair 2nd: TIE: Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival; and the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair in Naperville 3rd: West End Arts Festival in La Grange Other Favorites: Art in the

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Park in Elmhurst; Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival; Festival of the Vine Art Fair in Geneva; Scarecrow Fest Art Fair in St. Charles; and the Swedish Days Art Fair in Geneva

BEST WEEKEND GETAWAY BEST: Galena 2nd: Lake Geneva, WI 3rd: Saugatuck, Michigan Other Favorites: Door County, WI; southwest Michigan; and Traverse City, MI

BEST HISTORIC LANDMARK/ATTRACTION BEST: Cantigny Park in Wheaton 2nd: Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio in Oak Park 3rd: Graue Mill and Museum in Oak Brook Other Favorites: Fabyan Villa and Windmill in Geneva; and Unity Temple in Oak Park

BEST PARK/ FOREST PRESERVE BEST: Morton Arboretum in Lisle 2nd: Graue Mill in Oak Brook 3rd: Cantigny Park in Wheaton Other Favorites: Danada Park in Wheaton; Fullersburg Woods in Oak Brook; Island Park in Geneva; Thatcher Woods in River Forest; and Wheeler Park in Geneva

BEST LIVE THEATRE BEST: Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace 2nd: Paramount Theatre in Aurora 3rd: McAninch Arts Center in Glen Ellyn Other Favorites: 16th Street Theatre in Berwyn; and Oak Park Festival Theatre

BEST PLACE FOR LIVE COMEDY BEST: Second City in Chicago

2nd: Zanies Comedy Club in Rosemont and St. Charles 3rd: Smoke Break Comedy in West Chicago

Shopping BEST DOWNTOWN FOR SHOPPING

BEST: Naperville 2nd: Geneva 3rd: Oak Park Other Favorites: Downers Grove, La Grange and Wheaton

MOST UNIQUE GIFT SHOP BEST: The Little Traveler in Geneva 2nd: Cocoon in Geneva 3rd: The Collective + Makery in Lisle Other Favorites: CarefulPeach Boutique in Oak Park; and Style Studio in Downers Grove

BEST MALL/SHOPPING CENTER BEST: Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook 2nd: Yorktown Shopping Center in Lombard 3rd: Geneva Commons Other Favorites: Danada Square in Wheaton; Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg; and The Promenade Bolingbrook

BEST BARGAIN SHOPPING/ OUTLET STORE BEST: T.J. Maxx in multiple locations 2nd: HomeGoods in multiple locations 3rd: Marshalls in multiple locations Other Favorites: Chicago Premium Outlets; Last Chance in Lombard; and Tuesday Morning in Downers Grove, Naperville, Western Springs and Wheaton

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Copyright: Illinois Prairie Path Archives, North Central College

BEST OF THE WEST

B BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE OR BOUTIQUE BEST: Von Maur in Lombard and St.Charles 2nd: J.Jill in Bolingbrook, Burr Ridge, Naperville, Oak Brook and South Barrington 3rd: Nordstrom in Oak Brook and Schaumburg Other Favorites: Express in multiple locations; Jayne in Forest Park, Glen Ellyn,

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• The Prairie Path

La Grange and Oak Park; Jeans and a Cute Top Shop in Downers Grove, St. Charles and Wheaton; Jorie & June in Geneva; and Lively Athletics in Oak Park

Jewelers in Wheaton; Gem in Oak Park; K. Hollis in Batavia; Larc Jewelers in Glen Ellyn and Wheaton; Linnea Jewelers in La Grange; and Oak Park Jewelers

Forest Park; Miroballi Shoes in Wheaton; and Von Maur in Lombard and St. Charles

BEST JEWELRY STORE

BEST PLACE TO BUY MEN’S CLOTHING

BEST: Kohl’s in multiple locations 2nd: The Children’s Place in Lombard, North Riverside and River Forest 3rd: Carter’s in multiple locations Other Favorites: Charlie & Grace Children’s Consignment Boutique in Downers Grove; Sugarcup Trading in Oak Park; and Von Maur in Lombard and St. Charles

BEST: State Street Jewelers in Geneva 2nd: Razny in Addison and Hinsdale Other Favorites: Altobello

Photo by Andrew Collings courtesy of NPR

Favorite Radio Personality • Peter Sagal, NPR

BEST: Nordstrom in Oak Brook and Schaumburg 2nd: Von Maur in Lombard and St. Charles 3rd: Kohl’s in multiple locations Other Favorites: Carson’s in multiple locations; and Louis’ for Men in Downers Grove

BEST PLACE FOR SHOES BEST: DSW in multiple locations 2nd: Nordstrom in Oak Brook and Schaumburg 3rd: Nora’s Shoe Shop in Oak Park Other Favorites: Aldo Shoes in Oak Brook and Lombard; Madison Street Shoes in

BEST PLACE TO BUY CHILDREN’S CLOTHES

BEST KITCHEN AND HOUSEWARES STORE BEST: Sur La Table in Naperville, Oak Brook and South Barrington 2nd: Crate & Barrel in multiple locations

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BEST PLACE TO BUY ANTIQUES BEST: Vintage Market in North Aurora 2nd: Jackson Square in La Grange 3rd: TIE: Geneva Antique Market and Studio 8 in Forest Park Other Favorites: Affordable Antiques in Naperville; and the Kane County Flea Market in St. Charles

BEST RESALE/ CONSIGNMENT STORE BEST: Divine Consign in Oak Park 2nd: Kelsey Resale Boutique in Hinsdale and La Grange 3rd: Charlie & Grace’s in Downers Grove Other Favorites: Good Cents Children in Geneva; Goodwill in multiple locations; Plato’s Closet in multiple locations; Treasure House in Glen Ellyn; and Trends in Oak Park

BEST PLACE TO BUY APPLIANCES BEST: Abt in Glenview

2nd: Sears in multiple locations 3rd: Best Buy in multiple locations

Best Place to Buy Appliances • Abt Photo courtesy of Abt

3rd: Bed Bath & Beyond in multiple locations Other Favorites: HomeGoods in multiple locations; T.J. Maxx in multiple locations and Williams Sonoma in Geneva, Naperville and Oak Brook

BEST DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES FOR THE HOME BEST: HomeGoods, multiple locations 2nd: Crate & Barrel in Geneva, Oak Brook and Schaumburg 3rd: T. J. Maxx, multiple locations Other Favorites: Cocoon in Geneva

BEST ART GALLERY BEST: Elmhurst Art Museum 2nd: Ogden Art Studio in Downers Grove 3rd: Gallery 28 in Geneva Other Favorites: Cleve Carney Art Gallery in Glen Ellyn; and Water Street Studios in Batavia

BEST PET STORE/BOUTIQUE

Geneva and South Elgin

BEST: Happy Dog Barkery in Downers Grove 2nd: Petsmart in multiple locations 3rd: Scratch n Sniff in Oak Park Other Favorites: Classy Canine Creations in Wheaton; Le Doggie Divine Pet Salon in Geneva; Two Bostons in Burr Ridge, Naperville and Wheaton; and Woof Beach in Batavia,

BEST GROCERY, FOOD MARKET OR GOURMET SHOP

Photo courtesy of The Collective LHE + Makery

Copyright: Illinois Prairie Path Archives, North Central College

BEST OF THE WEST

BEST: Mariano’s in multiple locations 2nd: TIE: Blue Goose in St. Charles; and Standard Market in Naperville and Westmont 3rd: Trader Joe’s in multiple locations Other Favorites: Fresh Thyme Farmers Market in Downers Grove and Oak Park; Pete’s Fresh Market in Oak Park and Oakbrook Terrace; and Whole Foods in multiple locations

BEST NURSERY/ GARDEN CENTER BEST: Wannemaker’s in Downers Grove 2nd: The Growing Place in Aurora and Naperville 3rd: TIE: Planter’s Palette in Winfield; and Wasco Nursery & Garden Center in St. Charles Other Favorites: Heinz Brothers in St. Charles; Home Depot in multiple locations; Wheaton Landscape’

BEST AREA BAKERY B

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• The Collective LHE + Makery

BEST: Ingram’s Busy Bee

Bakery in Downers Grove 2nd: Kirschbaum’s Bakery in Western Springs 3rd: Kirsten’s Danish Bakery in Burr Ridge Other Favorites: Cocoa Bean Fine Desserts in Geneva; Harner’s Bakery in North Aurora; Spilt Milk in Oak Park; Sugar Fixé Patisserie in Oak Park; and Toni Patisserie & Café in Hinsdale

BEST NEW STORE BEST: The Collective LHE+ Makery in Lisle 2nd: 16 Suitcases in Oak Park 3rd: Last Chance in Lombard

Services BEST HAIR SALON BEST: Frank Gironda Salon & Spa in Glen Ellyn, Naperville and Wheaton 2nd: Rocco & Rocco Salon & Day Spa in Downers Grove 3rd: Zazu Salon & Day Spa in Hinsdale, Naperville and Wheaton Other Favorites: Colour Line Hair Studio in Geneva; Elan Hair, Body & Sole in River Forest; James Anthony Salon

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Photo by Steven Koch courtesy of Elmhurst Art Museum

BEST OF THE WEST 2nd: Ridgeland Common Ice Arena in Oak Park 3rd: Fox Valley Ice Arena in Batavia Other Favorites: Four Seasons Ice Rink in Naperville; and Prince Pond in Downers Grove

BEST AREA WATER PARK BEST: Raging Waves in Yorkville 2nd: Centennial Beach in Naperville 3rd: Paradise Bay Water Park in Lombard Other Favorites: Sea Lions Aquatic Park in Lisle; and Cypress Cove in Woodridge

BEST JOGGING OR RUNNING PATH

in Oak Park; Lola by Gina in Geneva; Mario Tricoci in Aurora, Bloomingdale, Lombard, Oakbrook, Naperville and Schaumburg; Salon 212 in Oak Park; Symmetry Hair Salon in La Grange Park

BEST FITNESS CENTER/ HEALTH CLUB BEST: Life Time Fitness in multiple locations 2nd: TIE: LA Fitness in multiple locations; and XSport Fitness in multiple locations 3rd: TIE: Planet Fitness in multiple locations; and Wheaton Sport Center Other Favorites: Blast! Fitness in Downers Grove and Lombard; Charter Fitness in multiple locations; and Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC) in Oak Park

BEST LOCAL HOTEL BEST: The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva 2nd: Hotel Baker in St. Charles 3rd: Hotel Arista in Naperville Other Favorites: The Carleton in Oak Park; The Drake in Oak Brook; Hotel Indigo in Naperville; and the

A G

• Elmhurst Art Museum

Westin in Lombard

BEST WEDDING VENUE BEST: Danada House in Wheaton 2nd: Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton 3rd: The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva Other Favorites: Drury Lane in Oak Brook; Morton Arboretum in Lisle; Riverside Receptions in Geneva; and the Westin in Lombard

BEST AREA CHARITY BEST: Feed My Starving Children in Aurora and Schaumburg 2nd: Loaves & Fishes Community Services in Naperville 3rd: TIE: Pillars Community Services in Berwyn, La Grange Park and Western Springs; and Teen Parent Connection in Glen Ellyn Other Favorites: Hephzibah in Oak Park; Housing Forward in Maywood; Mayslake Ministries in Downers Grove; Mutual Ground in Aurora; and the Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva

Sports BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE BEST: Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton 2nd: Oak Brook Golf Club 3rd: Prairie Landing Golf Club in West Chicago Other Favorites: Cantigny Golf in Wheaton; Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont; Downers Grove Golf Club; Seven Bridges Golf Club in Woodridge; St. Andrews Golf & Country Club in West Chicago; Village Links of Glen Ellyn; and Zigfield Troy Golf in Woodridge

FAVORITE SPORTS BAR OR PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS BEST: Fuller House in Hinsdale 2nd: Buffalo Wild Wings, multiple locations 3rd: Nobel House in Geneva Other Favorites: Another

Favorite TV Show Photo by Ron Batzdorff courtesy of NBC

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BEST: Prairie Path 2nd: Morton Arboretum in Lisle 3rd: Fox River Trail Other Favorites: Fullersburg Woods in Oak Brook; Herrick Lake in Wheaton; and Salt Creek Trail

BEST AREA BOWLING ALLEY BEST: Fox Bowl in Wheaton Tivoli Bowl 2nd: Pinstripes in Oak Brook and South Barrington 3rd: Tivoli Bowl in Downers Grove Other Favorites: Bowling Green in West Chicago; and Funway in Batavia

BEST AREA ICE RINK BEST: Seven Bridges in Woodridge

This Is Us

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BEST OF THE WEST A

w

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• Raging Waves

Photo by Ron Batzdorff courtesy of NBC

Photo courtesy of Raging Waves

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Round in Downers Grove; Bulldog Ale House in Aurora, Bolingbrook, Carol Stream, North Aurora, Rolling Meadows and Roselle; Old Towne Pub & Eatery in Geneva; and Miller’s Ale House in Aurora, Lombard North Riverside and Schaumburg

FAVORITE CHICAGO AREA SPORTS TEAM

3rd: TIE: Kris Bryant of the Chicago Cubs; and Mitch Trubisky of the Chicago Bears

Chicago Area BEST AREA CELEBRITY

BEST: Cubs 2nd: Blackhawks 3rd: White Sox Other Favorites: Bears and Bulls

BEST: Actress Jenny McCarthy 2nd: Former professional baseball and football star Bo Jackson 3rd: Actor Jim Belushi

FAVORITE CHICAGO ATHLETE/PERSONALITY

FAVORITE BROADCAST NEWS PERSONALITY

BEST: Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs 2nd: Former Chicago Bears Coach Mike Ditka

BEST: Robin Baumgarten, WGN 2nd: Tom Skilling, WGN 3rd: Alan Krashesky, ABC7

FAVORITE RADIO PERSONALITY BEST: Peter Sagal,“Wait, Wait .. .

Don’t Tell Me,” NPR, WBEZ 91.5-FM 2nd: Dick Biondi, 94.7 WLS-FM 3rd: Drew Walker, US 99, 99.5-FM Other Favorites: Steve Dahl, 890 WLS-AM

BEST ANNUAL CHICAGO PUBLIC EVENT OR FESTIVAL BEST: Lollapalooza 2nd: Taste of Chicago 3rd: Christkindlmarket Other Favorites: Air & Water Show; Chicago Auto Show; and the Chicago Jazz Festival

BEST DOWNTOWN THEATRE BEST: Chicago Theatre 2nd: Cadillac Palace Theatre 3rd: TIE: The Goodman

Theatre; and Steppenwolf Theatre Other Favorites: Chicago Shakespeare Theatre; CIBC Theatre; and Oriental Theatre

BEST LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN BEST: TIE: Millennium Park; and Northerly Island 2nd: House of Blues 3rd: TIE: Chicago Theatre; and Grant Park

TOWN YOU’D WANT TO LIVE IN (OTHER THAN YOUR OWN) BEST: Geneva 2nd: Naperville 3rd: Glen Ellyn Other Favorites: Batavia, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, La Grange; Oak Park; and Wheaton

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Photos courtesy of King’s Landscaping Co.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Expert Answers to Your Garden Dilemmas

By Sara Pearsaul Vice

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o matter how long you’ve taken care of your garden, there’s always something more to discover and an unexpected problem or two to solve. To get the inside scoop, we asked experts from the area’s leading horticultural institutions to shed light on the questions they hear all the time from home gardeners.

What’s bugging my plant?

Ever wonder what that tiny insect is, what it’s doing to your plant, and what you should do about it? Wonder no more. You can get help diagnosing your pest problems any time of year from the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, and University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners in St. Charles.

According to Sharon Yiesla, plant knowledge specialist in the Plant Clinic at the Morton Arboretum, two of the most popular questions about infestations relate to the emerald ash borer and the viburnum leaf beetle. Homeowners

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How do I know if this is a good plant to buy?

When the greenhouses are teeming with new plants, how can you tell whether the plant you pick out is healthy?

Liz Omura, Idea Garden curator at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, advises you to turn over the pot and take a look at the root system. “The roots should be nice and bright and white,” she says. If a plant

Photo courtesy of Chicago Flower & Garden Show

Why should I incorporate native plants?

Native plant expert Janie Grillo, who is presenting on the topic at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show on March 18, hears that question a lot. “They offer a lot of beauty, they are good for the

Photo courtesy of Morton Arboretum

Photo courtesy of Cantigny Park

What is this mystery plant?

“What is this thing growing in my yard?” you might ask. The horticulturists at the Chicago Botanic Garden have yet to be stumped by a question about plant identification. “Weeds are very, very popular,” says Dori Flerlage, horticultural specialist, of the questions that the Plant Information Service hears once the growing season starts. “We are a free service for anyone across the country and around the world,” she says. Last year, the Botanic Garden answered more than 35,000 questions from gardeners as far away as Australia and Greece. For the best results, send a digital photo of the entire plant with an idea of the size of the plant.

“It’s like detective work. It may take us some time,” Flerlage adds.

The staff and Master Gardener volunteers also answer requests to diagnose a problem with a plant and general questions on good gardening practices and plant selection. If you want to check out a particular plant in the Garden, the Plant Information Service

be afraid to turn over a plant to look at its root system for fear of damaging it, Omura suggests it’s good form to ask permission first. You might also snag a bargain on plants that the staff doesn’t plan to use in the gardens.

can look up the location of the plant on its database or you can do it yourself with its Garden Guide app.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

Photos courtesy of King’s Landscaping Co.

are asking if they should continue to pay for treatments to fight the emerald ash borer in their trees. “It’s still here,” says Yiesla. “Some of these injectable products have been very effective. To stop now is a risk.” She suggests that homeowners consider whether it is more cost effective to let a tree decline or to keep treating it every year.

The viburnum leaf beetle is relatively new to Illinois but it is causing a lot of damage. “It can really exfoliate a plant,” says Yiesla. “One year of infestation won’t kill the plant but two to three years could.” She recommends that you check viburnum shrubs in winter and early spring for signs of the beetle eggs, which look like little footballs on the tips of twigs. Then cut off four to six inches of the infested twigs and dispose of them before the beetle reaches full development. The Morton Arboretum website has a full page devoted to the problem, including lists of viburnum species that are either susceptible or resistant to the beetles.

Garden enthusiasts shop and consult with experts at garden shows and centers around the region.

is root-bound, you’ll have to be prepared to cut away some of the roots or pick a different plant. Another telltale sign is lack of new growth in the plant itself.

“You’re always going to see dead leaves but you should also see new buds,” she says. If the main part of the plant is sparse and the soil is wet, you may be looking at a plant that has been over-watered. “Most people over-water,” according to Omura. “The plant tends to look the same, with a lot of yellow leaves, whether you over- or under-water it.”

Cantigny hosts its annual Greenhouse Open House on May 6, where you can see the plants being grown for the park’s soon-to-be renovated gardens and ask the staff your questions. While you shouldn’t

environment and your garden, and they are very reliable. They have evolved in our soils and in our climate,” she says.

Grillo should know, having worked with native plants for the Natural Garden and now with Midwest Groundcovers in St. Charles. She likes to mix native plants with ornamentals in her own yard, but cautions that you should do your research to avoid native plants that might take over the yard. In her seminar, she will cover 12 of her favorite native plants, which she prefers for their ability to help pollinators, birds and other wildlife find a lovely habitat in suburbia.

The Chicago Flower and Garden Show, which runs from March 14 through 18, is a great resource in itself,

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Photo courtesy of Naperville Garden Club

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

with two dozen display gardens to view, daily presentations by gardening experts, designers and chefs, potting and floral arranging classes, activities for children, and a giant home and garden marketplace. Details are available at www.chicagoflower.com

St. Charles. He explains that you should never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at any one time. “When the lawn is longer, the grass shades the ground, conserves moisture, and keeps weed seeds from germinating,” he says.

“If the grass is four inches tall and you mow to two inches, it takes a few days to recover and weeds are not stunted.”

The sharp blade is “purely aesthetics.

The lawn will look much better.”

To water or not is another question.

Hentschel suggests making that decision up front, as it impacts how often you will

How can I keep my lawn looking its best?

Mow often and mow high with a sharp mower blade,” advises Richard Hentschel, horticulture educator for University of Illinois Extension in

Inspiration and Help for Home Gardeners It’s easy to find answers to your questions directly from the experts. To get a problem diagnosed, you can call, e-mail a photo, or visit the plant specialists in person and bring in a sample of an insect or a cutting of a plant in distress. See each center’s website for a wealth of information, as well as hours of operation and restrictions on bringing in certain diseased plants and pests.

Morton Arboretum Plant Clinic Website: www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-and-plant-advice/plant-clinic Phone: 630 719-2424 E-mail: plantclinic@mortonarb.org Visit: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Help Desk Website: web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/ Kane County

DuPage County

Phone: 630 584-6166

Phone: 630 955-1123

E-mail: uiemg-kane@illinois.edu

E-mail: uiemg-dupage@illinois.edu

Visit: 535 South Randall Rd., St. Charles

Visit: 1100 Warrenville Rd., Suite 170, Naperville

Chicago Botanic Garden Plant Information Service Website: www.chicagobotanic.org/plantinfoservice Phone: 847 835-0972 E-mail: plantinfo@chicagobotanic.org Visit: 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe Special Garden Events Chicago Flower and Garden Show: Navy Pier, Chicago, March 14 – 18 Cantigny Park: Greenhouse Open House, May 6; Grand Opening of the New Leaf Gardens, mid-July (date to be announced) Morton Arboretum: Edible Gardening Workshop Series, March 13 and 24, April 7 and 14; Arbor Day Weekend Celebration, April 27 – 29 Chicago Botanic Garden: Orchid Show through March 25; Get Growing Weekend, May 18 – 20 University of Illinois Extension: Four Seasons Gardening Home Winter Webinar Series, March 13, 15, 27, and 29. Register for free live sessions at go.illinois.edu/4seasons_webinars or watch later on YouTube. Check back for webinars on the next three seasons.

need to mow and fertilize. For Kentucky bluegrass, which is a type of grass often used here, the optimal blade height is two and a half to three inches. When the heat of summer turns the grass to brown, let it be. The dormancy is natural and the green will return in the fall.

What if I don’t have a green thumb?

Don’t tell that to Nancy Carroll, a member of the Naperville Garden Club and two other garden clubs. “Everybody can do something,” she says, when it comes to gardening. “Find the plants that will work for you.”

Carroll helped a busy young family across the street plant flowers near their mailbox, choosing blue and black salvia, which thrive in full sun and don’t need a lot of watering. She suggests parents let their children pick out a few annual plants when shopping at a garden center so they will get acquainted with the joys of gardening. “Then you can tell them, ‘Let’s go water your flowers,’” she says.

Carroll encourages fledgling gardeners to check out books at the library, attend seminars at garden centers, ask a Master Gardener, join a garden club, or just learn from experience.

Carroll first joined a garden club when her children were small and has learned a lot from her fellow club members, who, she says, are nothing like the stereotype. “It’s made up of a lot of different kinds of people.”

After trying your hand at growing a beautiful container or flowerbed, you might just find yourself joining the club.

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Photo by Scott Bader, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals

Photo courtesy of Keefe Vacation Rentals

Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals

HOME Away from Home

by Lisa Sloan

What to Consider When Renting or Buying a Vacation Property

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ome may be sweet, but a second home can be even sweeter — it offers a respite from everyday life in a favorite setting and, unlike a hotel, it provides a more personal space in which to unwind. Whether you’re thinking of purchasing or renting a cabin in the woods or a lakefront condo, there is a property for you in one of the popular Midwestern getaways favored by folks in the western suburbs.

All About Location Both the location of your getaway in terms of distance from your primary home and in terms of the setting are important considerations. Many people visit a resort community one or more times, forging an emotional connection with the place, which guides their decision making. If you’re looking to buy a vacation home, you’ll want to make sure that the travel time to and from your retreat is comfortable enough that it won’t hinder frequent visits.

Also, take some time to think about what sort of environment you most enjoy while vacationing. Do you like to be in the middle of the action? Perhaps you want a place in the heart of a bustling town where you can walk to shopping and entertainment. Do you crave solitude and natural beauty? A secluded cabin in a wooded setting with plenty of hiking trails might do the trick.

Does your family adore water sports, such as boating, water skiing, kayaking or fishing? Then property on or near a lake might be high on your wish list.

Some decisions might be dictated by your budget, but you should be able to find a workable solution. In Door County, as in many popular tourist destinations, lakefront property comes at a premium, notes Scott Bader of the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group in Fish Creek, Wisconsin, who says buying a home on the water may cost two to three times as much as an equivalent home on several acres without water frontage. “Everybody wants to be on the shore, but not everyone wants to spend that money,” he

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Summer Rentals Some might prefer to test the waters by renting rather than jumping into a second-home purchase. For the best selection of summer rental homes, especially if you are looking for a larger place, most in the rental business recommend starting your search early, just after the holidays or in the early spring.

However, if you’re getting a late start, don’t despair — many rental companies are continually adding to their portfolio.

Teresa Woods, owner of Visit Up North, in Traverse City, Michigan, which manages 160-170 properties in the area, says, “The sooner you look, the more choices you might have, but it’s never too late to check — there’s usually always something available.”

The considerations about location apply to renting as well. Woods advises prospective renters to communicate their wants and needs to the rental company in order to find the best fit. “If it’s important to you, mention it,” she says. “If you want a home without stairs, if you prefer a sandy beach to a rocky beach, if you have allergies and need a home with air conditioning — anything that’s a must-have — share it with the agent.”

The other important factor is size of your family or group. You’ll want to select a home that not only accommodates you in terms of sleeping quarters but also in terms of gathering spaces. Make sure you are choosing a home with a family room or kitchen to fit the whole group.

“Renting a large home is often the most affordable and comfortable option for families,” says Colin Sanderson, sales

You’ll want to select a home that not only accommodates you in terms of sleeping quarters, but also in terms of gathering space. and marketing director for Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Illinois.

Sometimes, renting several homes located near one another might be the best choice, especially if you’re traveling with other families or hosting a reunion.

Vacation rental companies will work with you to find the best fit — but most of them have strict capacity limits, so trying to shoehorn extra friends and family

Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals

Photo courtesy of Waya Vacation Rental Company

Photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism

Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals Photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism

Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals

says. A more affordable option might be a home just minutes from a public beach or water access.

members in at the last minute won’t work.

To find a home to rent, look for a rental company with a solid track record and positive customer reviews. Jason Milovich, owner of Bluefish Vacation Rentals in Union Pier, Michigan, has a wide array of properties, from one- to 11-bedroom homes spanning a mix of price points. He advises renters to pay close attention to the terms of the rental agreement. For example, most companies will provide linens and towels, and some might include a “starter package” of paper towels and toilet paper, but not all do.

“Read the (agreement) details and call or e-mail if you have questions. If you don’t get a fairly quick response, that might be a red flag — what will happen if something goes wrong during your stay?” he says.

Keefe Vacation Rentals in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, offers more than 60 high-quality properties in southeastern Wisconsin, ranging from one-bedroom condos to seven-bedroom homes.

Director Garner McClayton says using a locally based rental company offers several advantages. A local company knows the area and can tell you about restaurants, attractions and events and is also more accessible in the event of an emergency.

“We have a 24-hour emergency line in case anything goes wrong,” says McClayton. “Life is not perfect, and

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neither are vacations. We are here to try to make it as easy as possible for our customers to enjoy themselves.”

Expenses of Ownership You’ve rented a home in your favorite resort town for several years and you want to make things more permanent. Before you buy, in addition to looking at the mortgage, taxes and other expenses that accompany buying a second home, take time to weigh the day-to-day costs of home ownership in terms of both time and money.

Cutting grass, maintaining the home inside and out, updating furnishings, etc. — these chores and expenses from everyday life will follow you on vacation if you own a second home. If you wish to avoid some of these, you might consider a condo, townhome or other managed property where you pay homeowner’s association or other fees to handle maintenance and upkeep.

Making an Investment There are typically three types of vacation-home buyers — those who buy solely for their own enjoyment, those who buy to enjoy the home but hope to recoup some of their costs with rental income, and those who buy and rent purely as an investment. Sometimes people buy more than one home in the same area for different reasons.

If you are hoping to offset some of the expense with rental income, there are several factors to think about.

Before buying, make sure that the

condo or homeowner’s association in the community where your vacation home is located permits rentals.

“These days, most of the condos being built (in Door County) have restrictions on rentals, so if you are buying with the intent to rent to cover some of your costs, you need to be aware of that,” says Bader.

There are, however, many home and condo developments that make it easy to rent. For example, if you purchase a condo or a home at Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena, you have the option to take part in the rental program, says Sanderson.

There are currently 200 rental homes available at the 6,800-acre property in Galena Territory — everything from a one-bedroom condo to a six-bedroom home upwards of 10,000 square feet.

Ron Morales, owner of Waya Rentals Vacation Company in New Buffalo, Michigan, currently manages 35-40 upscale rental homes in the Harbor Country area. A large number of his renters end up investing in homes of their own. “I always tell people to buy something that feels comfortable for their family — and then consider the rental piece,” says Morales, though he notes that larger homes with specific amenities tend to book more quickly. “Places with pools and more than three bedrooms go first,” he says, “And those on land or in private settings are among the most successful.”

Weather also influences rental prospects. McClayton notes that, especially for clients in areas with a short season,

Photo courtesy of Bluefish Vacation Rentals

Photo courtesy of Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Photo courtesy of Keefe Vacation Rentals

HOME Away from Home

rental income will likely provide a nice supplemental income but won’t cover all the costs of home ownership.

Managing Your Property If you’ve decided buying and renting out a home is the route for you, think about how involved you want to be — managing a rental can be quite a bit of work. Do you want to field calls in the middle of the night if the water heater goes out? Be responsible for marketing your property to potential renters? Create and execute your own rental contract?

If not, it may make more sense to sign on with a company that rents homes in your area. “Some homeowners want to be more hands on, but we are here to cater to their needs and take care of all the details,” says Milovich.

A rental management company will charge a commission, such as a percentage of the rental cost, to take care of all aspects of renting your home.

It simplifies the process for owners and can also result in greater earnings, as the company is often able to secure more bookings than an owner who goes it on their own. The rental company can also help navigate state and local legislation regarding rentals, which has recently become more extensive in response to the burgeoning online rental marketplace.

If you do decide to pursue renting out your home, you can still enjoy it whenever you want — just designate certain dates to be blocked off for your personal use and get ready for a great vacation!

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The Best Smile Is a Hea e l i lthy Sm Area Experts Explore Cosmetic Dentistry Options to Brighten Smiles and Soothe Pain

By Sara Pearsaul Vice

C

osmetic dentistry may elicit images of perfect celebrity smiles, but local dentists have something else in mind: healthy teeth and gums. When considering cosmetic dentistry procedures, the place to start is with an examination of your oral health by a dentist. Then you can explore myriad new techniques and treatments that can make your smile one of your best features.

“We start by making sure the patient has healthy gums and no cavities,” says Kimet Abdullai, D.D.S., with Dental Care of Oakbrook. “Everything starts with a good exam

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e

Photos courtesy of Grove Dental

and a conversation.” She suggests sharing your goals for the appearance of your teeth, so that the dentist can address your main concerns. “I tell people, ‘Beware of the Internet if you’re going to invest in expensive cosmetic dentistry. Do your homework. Not everyone is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry, because you need to address the underlying issues.’” She gives an example: “You may want veneers but just need straightening.” She finds that “most patients are asking for a better smile.”

“Think of cosmetic dentistry as a set of stairs,” says Michael Bond, D.D.S., of Naperville, explaining that each step represents a higher level of complexity, intervention and expense, depending on the need at hand. The first step for an improved appearance would be tooth whitening, which he calls “one of the most effective methods and best for cost.” Next would be cosmetic shaping, bonding or covering with veneers, followed by a full crown, which is made of porcelain and covers the entire tooth, and culminating with surgical implants for missing or weakened teeth.

Looking Good According to a 2015 survey of dentists by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), “Eighty-six percent of patients elect cosmetic treatments to improve physical attractiveness and self-esteem.” The same study reports that the most popular cosmetic procedures are whitening, bonding and veneers, which together totaled 84 percent of the responses. Of course, many cosmetic procedures are used to improve function as well as form, such as replacing teeth that have been damaged or lost due to an accident or decay.

Whitening Whitening is the most popular cosmetic procedure, with options ranging from inexpensive over-the-counter kits you

General Dentist at Grove Dental Michael W. Bennett, DDS, and his team consult with patient, Terry J. of Lombard, then prep him for treatment to give him a healthy smile.

can use at home to professional at-home kits customized by the dentist or in-office whitening using laser light that can produce immediate results.

Bond cautions against using the inexpensive products that you can buy in stores, which come with prefabricated trays to hold the bleaching agents. “One size fits all usually fits nobody really well,” he says.

The in-home whitening treatment that dentists provide comes with customized whitening materials and made-for-yourmouth trays, which “keep the bleach away from the tissue” and prevent gum sensitivity. He believes that professional home whitening is more effective than quick in-office whitening treatments, although the one-hour office procedure is best for people who have a special occasion

coming up, such as a wedding, as well as for those who don’t have the time to devote to days or weeks of whitening treatments.

Although whitening has been “found to be entirely safe to the tooth structure,” says Kevin Moss, D.M.D., a partner with Grove Dental Associates in Downers Grove, he advises against it for patients younger than 16. “Their teeth are still developing.”

Whitening also may not be suitable for people with crowns or veneers, which are matched to the color of existing teeth and will not change color with whitening.

Bonding and veneers Bonding and veneers can be used to fix chipped or mis-shapen teeth and gaps and to improve overall appearance. “Veneers are very conservative,” Moss says. He

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Smile! describes them as thin, porcelain facings for one or more teeth, fabricated in a custom shade to match the other teeth, which do not require extensive alterations to the tooth. A veneer “usually fits in front and covers the tip of the tooth. We can give patients a smile makeover and do it quickly.”

Straightening Straightening is an option for young and old. While teenagers may want to rock a brightly colored set of braces, most adults prefer their teeth be straightened in a way that isn’t noticeable. The Invisalign straightening system may be the answer.

Straightening is accomplished with a series of custom-made, clear aligners that fit over the teeth and are changed every two weeks. The aligners can be removed to eat or brush, but must be worn at least 22 hours each day, Moss explains.

For people with tooth loss, Singh and other dentists offer implants.

Although dentures have come a long way in appearance, they tend to be an uncomfortable substitute for teeth. Now, implants are considered the best long-term option, dentists say, although they cost considerably more than dentures.

“The lifespan of a crown is about five to seven years, while an implant lasts 25 to 40 years,” says Rajan Sharma, D.D.S., an endodontist and president of Eon Clinics, with multiple locations including Westmont and Hoffman States. He explains that costs for an individual crown can add up over time, especially if a root canal is required. Unlike crowns, implants do not decay. Implants have a titanium base that is anchored into the bone, which helps to prevent the bone loss that is caused by

the permanent tooth is affixed. In others, the permanent teeth can be bonded the same day. “Literature supports both options,” Singh explains.

For those with dentures, Vesna Sutter, D.D.S., of Sunrise Dental Care in Geneva, notes that mini-implants may help stabilize dentures. The procedure involves placing three or four small, narrow implants and adding a housing to the denture so that it snaps onto the implants. “You can still remove it,” she says. “It minimizes floating so patients can really chew.”

Photo courtesy of Periodontal Implant Associates

Ouch, That Bill Really Hurts!

Of course, smile beautification comes at a considerable cost. Professional whitening costs an average of $357, according to the AACD study, while area dentists report that implants can amount to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the number of teeth Bye-Bye Teeth, Hello replaced.

Dentures or Implants “There are a lot of different steps Like all health issues, prevention you can take to get the smile you is the key to oral health. Yes, you love and meet your budget,” Sutter really should floss. The good news observes. “You can ease into it.” from the Centers for Disease Control She recommends going in for a and Prevention is that fewer people consultation with an annual budget are losing all their teeth. But when in mind. Depending on the situation, tooth decay goes untreated, tooth cosmetic procedures may be done in loss is bound to follow, as teeth phases over a period of several years. loosen and bones deteriorate.

Dental insurance usually doesn’t “The first thing that goes is the cover strictly cosmetic procedures, gums,” says Amarik Singh, D.D.S., and any coverage is limited. Sutter Amarik Singh, D.D.S. of Periodontal Implant Associates in Oakbrook with Periodontal Implant Associates relates that dental insurance Terrace discusses restorative options with one of his patients. in Oakbrook Terrace. “If you treat benefits haven’t changed for years, missing teeth. “The implants are like your gum disease early enough, you can help generally topping out at $1,500 a year. natural teeth,” he notes. He advises that people avoid losing their teeth.” He Restorative dentistry such as crowns may patients maintain their implants by having employs new, less invasive techniques to be covered in part, and dental offices can them checked by the dentist every year or address gum disease, including pinhole gum help you navigate coverage. Check to see so to assess bone and tissue health. rejuvenation. As the name implies, gum if the dental practice you choose covers An implant can be done on one or recession is treated through a pinhole the initial consultation on cosmetic more individual teeth or an entire row opening in dentistry free of charge. of teeth. Sharma, Singh and other dentists the gums, without the need for grafting Many practices also offer access to lines offer All-on-4® implants, which can tissue from elsewhere. Another high-tech of credit to pay for expensive procedures treatment is laser surgery for infected such as implants over a period of years. provide a full set of upper and/or lower gums. “It gives the ability to treat people Cosmetic dentistry “is not just for your teeth replacements, using only four in a much more comfortable way, as it health,” Sutter says. “It really changes implants to anchor the entire arch. In cleans infection and promotes healing people’s lives when you’re confident and some situations, the implant must heal at the same time,” he says. you can smile. ” into the bone for several months before 56 MARCH 2018 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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ELGIN

By Lynn Petrak

F

or a town once known for producing fine watches and clocks, there is a definite focus on time in Elgin.

The community, located in both west Cook and Kane counties in the far northwest suburbs along the Fox River, honors important periods and moments in its history, yet continually ticks forward to start different traditions and welcome new residents, businesses and visitors.

Arguably, there’s no better example of this than the Tower Building in downtown Elgin. The iconic Art Deco-style structure was built as a bank in 1929, just before the Great Depression, and was the site of offices for some sporadic years before being bought by a foundation that sought to maintain and restore it. Capstone Development purchased the 15-story building a couple of years ago and has

turned the space into 44 one-bedroom and two-bedroom luxury apartments that opened in January.

As part of the improvement, the large exterior clock — which includes Art Deco features and stained glass — was fixed and restored, once again working in real time with the community around it.

Mayor David Kaptain says that project is emblematic of Elgin, fusing its past and present in a collaborative way.

“It’s been a long time coming, and it was quite an undertaking. The building really is now a lighthouse for our city and downtown,” he says, noting that the clock restoration was done by experts with help from an Elgin resident.

“I met someone eight or nine years ago who wanted to save the clock and started collecting parts from around

the country, because he knew there would be a time when those parts may not be available,” says Kaptain. “When they got ready to restore the clock, they asked him and used some of those parts.

It’s a local man, and he felt it was important to do it.”

Like the city’s signature building, there are other ways in which Elgin is continually refreshed while maintaining its legacy and innate charm. First and foremost is the town’s diverse and growing population of more than 112,000 residents, and accordingly, the subsequent burgeoning variety of cultural, shopping and dining opportunities. “It’s what America is all about, and we want to be a welcoming community,” says Kaptain, of Elgin’s diversity. “It’s really about sharing — we share food, we learn about one another’s

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Photo courtesy of City of Elgin

By embracing growth and change, this historic Fox River city is fusing the past and present

culture, and it becomes an integral part of the community and part of what and who we are.”

That sentiment is echoed by Dianha Ortega-Ehreth, an Elginite who was drawn to the area because of its strong schools, rich culture and welcoming attitude, not to mention a charming century-old house that she and her family fell in love with when they found it.

“Elgin is very culture-rich. There are people here from all over the world,” says Ortega-Ehreth, who is president of the Elgin Hispanic Network. “It’s fun filling my calendar with activities and events that lift up the gifts and contributions from different groups of people.”

Elgin’s diversity extends to its geography and range of things to do and see. “In the downtown area, there are different types of entertainment that include the opera, symphonies and plays and different dining options that make us a city in the suburbs,” says Kaptain, who, born and raised in this city, has experienced its evolution firsthand.

“Yet we are still part of the rural part of the state, because if you drive a just a few miles outside Elgin, you’re in the country.”

Jennifer Fukala, executive director of the Elgin Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA), agrees that there is a best-of-both-worlds thing going on in Elgin. “It’s more of an urban suburb, and people love the city feel of it, particularly millennials and young business people looking for a place. And Elgin is growing — if you look at the trends in the state of Illinois, you see that the overall state

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population is shrinking, but Elgin is growing. So we have a lot of opportunities here, and it’s a good mix of legacy people who have been invested here for generations with a great vibrancy of new blood.”

Tony Lucenko, director of the Elgin Development Group, says that things are in place for ongoing growth. “Elgin is a very dynamic community. It’s very diverse, and it has strong business sectors,” he says, adding that the city boasts a mix of more than 5,600 businesses, from international corporations to start-up and proverbial mom-and-pop operations.

Time for Entertainment and the Arts Some western suburbs are known for their dining and shopping, akin to “restaurant rows” and shopping meccas.

While there are plenty of places to eat, drink and buy things in the Elgin area, the heart of the city really beats with entertainment and culture.

“There’s art everywhere in Elgin, and it’s very cool,” declares Ortega-Ehreth.

If the restored Tower Building is an icon that represents the bridge of past and future in downtown Elgin, the Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino in downtown Elgin is a more recent visual hallmark.

Opened in 2005, the casino has scores of table games and slot machines, along with several entertainment venues and four restaurants.

Arts are part of the casino’s offerings, too, including an upcoming performance of the comedy “Dixie’s Tupperware Party” on March 9 and 10 and the Howl

Experience dueling piano show on March 17. An outdoor concert series put on by the Grand Victoria Casino attract crowds during the summer.

The Hemmens Cultural Center is an arts fixture in Elgin, located along the scenic riverwalk. The 1,200-seat theater offers performances by several featured companies, including the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, GreenRoom Improv, Children’s Theatre of Elgin and Elgin Summer Theatre. The venue also hosts the annual Elgin Short Film Festival, usually held in September and featuring short pieces from filmmakers around the country.

Nearby Elgin Community College (EEC) offers a plethora of arts and entertainment programs throughout the year at the school’s Arts Center, including performances by the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Elgin Master Chorale and Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl, a-resident ensemble specializing in Mexican folkloric dance and music.

The ECC campus includes two theaters that stage performances by the college’s band, choir and musical theater ensembles as well as other invited performers, which have in the past included stars like Roseanne Cash and John Hiatt. As an added bonus, the ECC offers pre-show dinners, prepared by students in the college’s culinary arts and hospitality program.

Several performing organizations thrive in this western suburb. Elgin Theatre Company, which won a BroadwayWorld Chicago award for the “The Odd Couple” in 2017, will put

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Elgin

Photo by Jennifer Fukala

Resources HISTORIC ELGIN HOUSE TOUR

Gail Borden Public Library Total holdings: 531,893 Items checked out per year: 1,495,649 Visitors per year: More than 1 million

Attractions

Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Dr., 847 622-0300.

A 662-seat theatre hosting nationally known performers and community events.

Elgin Fringe Festival September celebration of dance, music and theatre. www.elginfringefestival.com Elgin Harvest Market 200 N. Grove Ave., 847 488-1456.

Seasonal and weekly outdoor farmers market on Thursdays from June through October.

Elgin International Festival August festival with ethnic cuisine, entertainment and activities. www.elginifest.org

Elgin Art Showcase 164 Division St., 847 931-6019.

Gallery and performance space for local artists and performers.

Elgin Ribfest Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave. June event with rib vendors, beer, wine and music. www.elginribfest.com

Festival Park 132 S. Grove Ave., 847 931-6100.

Entertainment venue and park featuring a splash fountain, bike trail and fishing area.

Museums

Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum 533 Saint Charles St., 847 697-6242. Prized artifacts from Elgin Fire Department.

Grand Victoria Casino 250 S. Grove Ave., 847 468-7000.

Dockside riverboat casino for gaming, dining and entertainment.

Elgin History Museum 360 Park St., 847 742-4248.

Permanent and changing exhibits housed in an 1856 landmark building.

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, 847 931-5900. Home to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and a venue for concerts, theatre, film festivals and other events.

Elgin Public Museum 225 Grand Blvd., 847 741-6655.

Natural history and anthropology museum located in Lords Park.

State Street Market Shops 701 N. State St., 847 695-3066.

10,000 sq. ft. mall with antique and specialty shops.

Events

Art & Soul on the Fox Outdoor juried art and artisan fair held each August.

Fox River Trolley Museum 365 S. La Fox St. 847 697-4676.

Railroad museum with rides and events open June to October.

Recreation

Bowes Creek Country Club 1250 Bowes Creek Blvd., 847 214-5880. 18-hole public course and driving range, plus cross-country ski trails.

The Centre of Elgin 100 Symphony Way, 847 531-7000. Recreational facility with basketball and racquetball courts, indoor track, pool and climbing wall.

Elgin Sports Complex 709 Sports Way, 847 931-6644.

Lighted soccer and softball fields, sand volleyball courts and a BMX track.

Fox River Trail 630 232-5980. 40-mile trail for biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and jogging.

The Highlands of Elgin 875 Sports Way, 847 931-5950.

An 18-hole par 72 golf course with indoor golf simulator.

Lords Park 325 Hiawatha Dr., 847 531-7000.

108 wooded acres with historic pavilion, petting zoo, aquatic center, basketball and tennis courts and baseball fields.

Wing Park Golf Course 1000 Wing St., 847 931-5952.

A classic nine-hole municipal golf course dating to 1900s.

Education

Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Dr., 847 697-1000.

Comprehensive community college on 209-acre campus.

Judson University 1151 N. State St., 847 628-2500.

Evangelical Christian liberal arts college.

Providence Baptist College 345 W. River Rd., 847 931-7222.

Independent, fundamental Baptist institution.

on The Cell Phone this June. Chamber Music on the Fox is a classical music series that serves Elgin and surrounding areas, with performances at various venues in the city.

Those who appreciate the visual arts can visit galleries and museums in Elgin that spotlight various artists’ works. About a decade ago, the City of Elgin founded the Elgin Art Showcase which, as its name suggests, showcases artists from the area in a studio in downtown Elgin. Side Street Studio Arts opened in 2013, as a way to spotlight those in the local arts scene.

Artists also create works in a collaborative space at the Elgin Artspace Lofts, which encompasses 50 units of affordable work/ residential space for artists and their families.

That mixed-use space was the result of a partnership between the Elgin Arts Commission and the City of Elgin.

Time to Learn Historically, rivers have been focal points of the communities around them and that’s true in Elgin, both in the past and present. Just as the Hemmens Center flanks one part of the Fox River, the Gail Borden Public Library is set over another part of the waterway. While the view is beautiful from the inside windows, this library is also known for what’s inside, in book and digital form as well as in public programs.

Opened in 2003, the nearly 140,000-sq-ft main library is the third largest library building in the state and has received many accolades for its services and offerings, including the 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Services.

In addition to its collections, the Borden library offers a host of public programs. Topics run the gamut from fun new hobbies — jewelry making, anyone?

— to a screening of a documentary on the Vietnam War to conversational French.

There are programs that serve toddlers and small children, Spanish-speaking visitors, tweens, teens, adults and seniors and all kinds of interests, passions and pursuits.

For a community that preserves and promotes its history, Elgin is home to several museums, including the Elgin History Museum, the Elgin Public

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Time to Party!

Open Elgin is just one of many public events sprinkled through the year.

Like many communities, Elgin marks the seasons and holidays with festivities, whether it’s a summer running race (the Fox Trot in May), Halloween traditions (Nightmare on Chicago Street in October) or holiday events (Winter Wonderland in early December).

Many other events take place in Elgin, such as the annual Elgin Civil War Experience, held in early June. History and U.S. Civil War buffs gather in town for re-enactments, encampments and activities like a vintage baseball game, a fashion show and a cavalry competition.

“It takes place on a property that used to be a state hospital. People from around

Photo by Jason Pawlowski

Museum and Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum. Each museum offers special exhibits and collections, along with pertinent programs and activities.

Back to the topic of timepieces that put Elgin on the map, the Elgin History Museum offers an Elgin Watch Reserve, providing information on watches and clocks made in the city between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries. Another piece of Elgin’s manufacturing past is the subject of a special program offered in March on women’s compacts — under the Elgin American brand name — that were made in this community in the 1940s.

The Elgin Public Museum is a veritable treasure trove of information and artifacts on the natural history of the area, including fossils from Mazon Creek southwest of what is now Elgin. Those fossils date to the Carboniferous Period.

As its name denotes, the Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum honors firefighting history in the city. The building houses Elgin Fire Department’s artifacts including helmets, badges, uniforms, hose carts and early fire trucks. On April 21, the museum will take part in the city’s “Open Elgin” event, an open house of 35 public buildings in the city. Open Elgin is an initiative of the Elgin Area Chamber and the Enhancing Elgin committee of the Elgin Development Group.

the country visit and camp out, complete with horses and cavalries,” says Fukala.

She points to other major events, including a fun Cinco de Mayo coming up in May. “We also have a big party for the Fourth of July,” she says, adding that the parade and fireworks show is one of the biggest in the area.

Fitting for a town steeped in arts and culture, Elgin draws crowds at the annual Art & Soul on the Fox, a fine arts event held in August in the Riverside Drive Promenade and put together by the City of Elgin and Elgin’s Art for All Art League.

Time to Eat, Drink and Shop Whether they’re looking for a pre-show dinner or post-performance drink or just want to savor a unique dining experience, visitors to and residents of Elgin can choose from a variety of eateries that reflect the diversity of the community.

Al’s Café & Creamery is distinctive because it’s located inside a Victorian-style building. Opened more than 30 years ago, Al’s specializes in American cuisine with globally-inspired flavors. Ortega-Ehreth has a suggestion for those who visit this spot: “Swing by Al’s restaurant for a chocolate Coke — they’re my favorite.”

Another longtime eatery popular with locals is Mel’s Pizza, which opened in 1974.

Walnut Speak Easy was established in

1965 and celebrates the Prohibition era in this country in its theme. The Elgin Public House is a staple, too, offering a wide-ranging menu in addition to special events like a Marvel vs. DC Comics Trivia Night and an upcoming Easter Brunch.

A newer restaurant in town, Alexander’s Café, features American-style dishes, including a comfort-food meatloaf and a Friday night fish fry. Dog’s Paw Brewing is another newer attraction, with in-house brews and gourmet sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs.

The city’s longstanding ties to the Laotian community are evident at the White Pearl Restaurant that serves up authentic Lao sausages and sticky rice, among other dishes. As the population of Hispanic residents has grown in Elgin, so too has the number of authentic Mexican restaurants, such as El Paraiso and Sammy’s Mexican Grill, among others.

A hidden gem — and one also recommended

by Ortega-Ehreth — is the elotes counter at the Elgin Fresh Market that serves up some of the best street corn around.

Flavors from other parts of the world can be sampled at Toom Toom Thai and Café Roma, among other local dining establishments.

Many restaurants and bars in downtown Elgin have character because of the surroundings. “That’s one of the

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Elgin

Population 2015 pop est - 112,105 g Increase from 2000: 17% g Median age: 33 g 19 and under: 31% g 20-24: 7% g 25-34: 16% g 35-44: 14% g 45-54: 13% g 55-64: 10% g 65 and over: 9% g Male: 50% g Female: 50% g White: 66%* g African-American: 7%* g Asian: 6%* g Hispanic: 44%*

Income g Median household income: $59,832

Photo by Tom Lee

Statistical Snapshot ELGIN HISTORY MUSEUM

Housing g Total households: 34,755 g Family households: 72% g Avg. household size: 3.1 g Mean price for detached houses: $179,400

g Owner-occupied units: 23,610

g Renter-occupied units: 11,145

g Gross median rent: $971

Business/Employment Education g High school degree or higher: 79% g Bachelor’s degree or higher: 24% g Graduate or professional degree: 8%

great things about dining in Elgin — the atmosphere of the spaces,” says Fukala, who shares an example. “Martini Room is beautiful and it has the original tin ceiling, like many other buildings here.”

As a large city, Elgin has a variety of stores and shops. Of course, in a town that was once defined by and supported by timepieces, there is a clock business, Elgin Clock Repair that first opened in 1981.

Several stores cater to particular interests and needs. Elgin Knit Works, located in historic buildings, offers unique yarns and knitting classes. Those looking for a celebratory quinceaneras outfit can find it at Dulce’s Boutique. Soulful Sparrow is a charming boutique that carries jewelry, gifts, apparel and home décor pieces, including items that have been repurposed or handmade by local artisans.

Time to Explore the Outdoors While it’s often said that Elgin has an urban feel to it, the city is known for its green side, too.

“We have two of the finest city parks in the Fox Valley — Lords Park and Festival Park,” says Mayor Kaptain. “We also have three natural areas that are part of the city and unique to northern Illinois — Bluff Springs, Trout Park and Sleepy Hallow Ravine. They are all open to the

g Residents employed: 64% g Residents unemployed: 6%

g Avg. travel time to work: 29 minutes * 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

public, and they often have guided tours and open houses.”

To his point, Elgin’s nearly 70 parks are a source of pride. Lords Park even includes a farm zoo — which began in 1895 -— with pigs, cows, goats, sheep, llama and a miniature donkey. Elgin Public Museum is also on the grounds of Lords Park.

On the southeast side of the city, Bluff Springs nature area spans 100 acres with hiking trails and wetlands. Trout Park is a nature preserve that includes a collection of white cedar trees and a fishing spot popular among locals.

Some of the dozens of parks in Elgin are used to host special events. Festival Park, for instance, lives up to its lively name with several entertainment events a year, including summer concerts. The site also includes a playground and spray park that is a popular spot in warmer months.

The plethora of trails and paths in Elgin, many of which link parks and nature areas, make this area a destination for riders through the area. “The bike path that runs through Festival Park is the epicenter of the Illinois bike system,” says Fukala, adding, “We have a lot of businesses who cater to cyclists.” Among them, she says, is Arabica Café near the bike path.

The 40-mile Fox River Trail that stretches through many western and

northwestern suburbs is another hub in Elgin. The trail is used by local residents as well as visitors, who can ride or drive in or bring their bikes on a Metra train, which stops not far from the trail. Those looking for a nice stroll can also take to the Riverside Drive Promenade along the Fox River.

While you still can, you might want to swing out to Elgin in March to catch a glimpse of bald eagles that nest there in the cold months. “About four years ago, we started seeing bald eagles wintering here, and that population has grown significantly,” says Fukala.

Time to Play Beyond hiking, running and riding on the network of trails and paths that wind through Elgin, visitors and residents can take part in a number of other outdoor and indoor activities.

There are at least five golf courses in this suburb, including Wing Park Golf Course, Highlands of Elgin, Rolling Knoll Golf Course, Bowes Creek Country Club and Elgin Country Club.

For indoor recreation, the Centre of Elgin lives up to its name. It’s located in the center of town, not far from the river and other popular attractions.

Run by Elgin Parks and Recreation, the 185,000-sq-ft facility includes an expansive health and fitness center, a large pool, dance rooms, a climbing wall, a three- court fieldhouse, racquetball courts and an indoor track.

Time for School Residents and leaders emphasize the quality and scope of education in this suburb. “I think the best way that Elgin is preparing for the future is by investing in its leadership in education,” says Ortega-Ehreth, noting that Elgin has the second largest school district in Illinois.

Elgin is home to the aforementioned Elgin Community College and Judson University, a private liberal arts college.

Elgin Academy, is the oldest, non-sectarian (i.e., run by religious sects) college preparatory school in the Midwest.

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DINING |

REVIEWS

|

LISTINGS

|

CHEERS WINE COLUMN

|

AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Mission BBQ

RESTAURANT OPENINGS

NOW OPEN

Mission BBQ

S

erving a hefty side of patriotism

of local heroes and military veterans deck

or green beans and bacon. Fresh-made

with every plate of authentic

the walls, while the kitchen marshals fresh,

coleslaw and hand-cut fries round out

American barbecue is the

homemade and hand-crafted ingredients

a menu where most plates are under $9.

unabashed mission of the

into dishes like Texas smoked brisket, pulled

recently opened Mission BBQ

pork or chicken sandwiches, and racks

isn’t the only outward show of the restaurant’s

at 1570 Butterfield Rd. in Downers Grove

of baby back ribs — all of which can be

mission. Dedicated to supporting U.S. troops,

(630 824-3606). The first Illinois location

doused with any of 10 sweet, spicy or smoky

Mission BBQ also raises funds for local

of a growing national chain, the casual

barbecue sauces.

firefighters, police, veterans, first responders

restaurant seats 98, with outdoor space for 35.

Flags, military paraphernalia and photos

Also offered are generous sides of Maggie’s Mac and Cheese, baked beans with brisket

A lunchtime salute to the Stars and Stripes

and other local heroes.

— Anne Knudsen

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DINING West Dundee NW DUPAGE & UPPER FOX VALLEY

South Barrington NE DUPAGE & NW COOK

Schaumburg Bartlett

Itasca

Bloomingdale

South Elgin

Glen St. Charles Ellyn West Chicago

Geneva

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

90 294

Wheaton

88

Aurora

190

290

55

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!

CENTRAL DUPAGE NW DUPAGE & UPPER FOX VALLEY SW DUPAGE & LOWER FOX VALLEY SE DUPAGE & SW COOK NE DUPAGE & NW COOK ADELLE’S: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.

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

Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 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 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.

AMERIKA’S: 734 Lake St, Oak Park. 708 613-4254.

Nuevo Latino cuisine with a contemporary American flair in an intimate, romantic setting.

Capacity: 44. Mths in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Chili-Braised Duck. Extras: Sharable plates; full bar.

M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 5-11:30, Sun 4-9:30.

Reservations: Yes. ANYWAYS CHICAGO 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.

ARROWHEAD RESTAURANT & BAR: 26W151 Butterfield Rd, Wheaton. 630 510-5070. American fare and premium spirits with panoramic golf course WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | MARCH 2018 65

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Photos courtesy of Tango2

GOOD FOOD

By Lynn Petrak

Tango2 Argentinian steaks and tapas perform a perfect two-step in downtown Naperville

I

t may take two to tango, but you don’t need a partner to savor the dining experience at Tango2 Argentinian Steaks and Tapas. On a busy weekend night, or even a weekday lunch, parties of all sizes flock to this Argentina-inspired eatery.

Once settled into one of the sleek black chairs or, if you’re in a mood, a cushioned banquette along the wall, you can’t help but tap your toes to the tango music that fills the air. The music, along with colorful walls and framed pictures of dancing couples, lends the charisma of Buenos Aires to a historic storefront along Jackson Street in the heart of downtown Naperville. (It’s the same location as the original Tango, run by the same owners from 2003 to 2015.)

The food takes the lead at Tango2, with the décor following in step. The restaurant touts itself as Home of the World’s Longest Steak — a grilled skirt steak that literally hangs off the end of the plate and is delectable when drizzled with an accompanying chimichurri-like sauce.

In tune with the romance of the tango, some menu items are meant to be shared, The chef special, Parrillada Argentina,

served on a traditional Argentinian hot plate, has grilled skirt steak, beef filet, pork chops, chicken breast and salchicha sausage.

Indeed, proteins are a star on this menu, which Grilled whole chicken includes entrées like bone-in a tasty and colorful accompaniment. rib-eye, grilled pork chops, pan-seared Hot and cold tapas are a specialty, Lake Superior whitefish and Lamb Chops with steak or chicken skewers, salchicha Oreganato — a portion of grilled rack sausage, grilled calamari, and lollipop of lamb topped with house-made lemon lamb chops. A unique choice is the oregano sauce. Sauces are standouts with roasted bone marrow with beef cheek virtually every meat dish, from the white marmalade or the basil crostini and wine garlic sauce that enrobes the Pollo bacon-wrapped sweet plantains dipped Parrilla grilled chicken to the garlic cream in spicy apricot sauce. A tapas staple — sauce drizzled atop filet medallions. fresh goat cheese baked in tomato sauce There is a host of pasta choices and — is good for sharing, as is the Argentinian salads on the lunch and dinner menus.

The refreshing Tango Salad is a bed of potato salad studded with garlic and hard-cooked eggs and a trio of empanadas baby field greens tossed with red apples, served with creamy aioli. gorgonzola cheese, walnuts, carrots and Highlights of the dessert menu are a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. an authentic flan (caramel custard, done Tango2 scores with its side dishes, just right) and a fresh banana sautéed particularly the fried plantains — with with cinnamon sugar and caramel rum just enough golden-brown crisp on the sauce, sprinkled with chopped nuts and outside and sweet, soft banana-like flavor served with a scoop vanilla ice cream. on the inside — and the garlicky spinach,

QUICK FACTS

Tango2

5 Jackson Ave., Naperville 331 888-2646 www.mytango2.com

RECOMMENDED DISHES

COST

HOURS

EXTRAS

Parrillada Argentina

Appetizers: $6 - $12

Mon - Thur: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Buy 2, get 1 free

entrée for two;

Entrées: $14 - $38

Fri - Sat: 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

tapas on Tuesdays;

Tango Salad

Desserts: $6 - $9

Sun: 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Specialty cocktails

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DINING 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, wine list, beer list, private rooms, carry-out, weekly and daily specials, 15 HDTVs. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11 am-midnight, Sun 10-9.

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.

BARREL + RYE: 477 S Third St, Suite 184, Geneva.

630 402-0647. American bistro featuring a wide range of whiskey and craft cocktails, salads, burgers and shareable plates. Capacity: 50, 20 at bar. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Southern fried chicken sandwich. Entrée prices: $10-$17. Extras: TVs, full bar, carry-out, selection of scotch and bourbon, patio. Sun-M 11-11, Tu-Th 11am-12 pm, F-Sat 11 am-1 am.

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.

CAPRI RISTORANTE: 324 Burr Ridge Pkwy., Burr Ridge. 630 455-4003. Authentic Italian fare served in a warm and elegant setting. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Homemade rigatoni with vodka sauce, with soup or salad. Entrée prices: $15-$40. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, outdoor dining, private parties. M 11:30-2 & 4-11, T-F 11:30-11, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-9. Reservations: recommended.

CARLUCCI: 1801 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove.

630 512-0990. Rustic Italian restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 14. Chef’s Choice: Linguini bobonato. Entrée prices: $12-$33.

Extras: Carry-out, private dining, outdoor dining, bar open later, live music. Lunch M-F 11:30-3; Dinner M-Th 3:30-9:30, F 3:30-10:30, Sat 4:30-10:30, Sun 4:30-9. Reservations: Recommended.

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. CINE MODERN TAQUERIA: 29 E First St, Hinsdale.

630 590-5655. Contemporary Mexican restaurant serving quality Latin fare. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Chicken Alambre. Entrée prices: $16-$30. Extras: Outdoor dining, carry-out, delivery, daily specials, full bar, live entertainment on Th, free kids’ tacos on Sun. Lunch T-Sat 11:30-2:30; Dinner Sun 5-9, T-Th 4-9, F-Sat 4-10. Reservations: Yes. 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. DELL RHEA’S CHICKEN BASKET: 645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried

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DINING

Photo courtesy of SixtyFour — A Wine Bar

Recently Opened

Reserve Room Upscale dining plus sixteen reserve wines each day in downtown Naperville

L

ocated next door to

with such specialties as

locally. Choice ingredients

SixtyFour — A Wine Bar,

French onion soup gratinée

elevate other menu items,

Reserve Room shares the

and pasta dishes like grilled

like the truffles flavoring the

same owners, Loren and

salmon with ricotta gnocchi

arancini carnaroli rice or the

Amy Beadle — as well as the

and shaved fennel or

mango habanero spicing up

culinary expertise of Executive

pappardelle with arugula-

the smoked duck potstickers.

Chef Patrick McLaughlin.

basil pesto. Patés, flatbreads

The elegant, upscale dining

and sauces are made in

32, this intimate space is also

space is a quiet, relaxing

house and specialty dishes,

available for private events

alternative to its bright and

such as the grilled Maple

seating up to 48 guests.

bustling neighbor.

Leaf Farms duckling breast

The contemporary menu has European influences,

With nightly dining for just

Reserve room is located

with pomegranate reduction

at 123 Water St. in Naperville

and pistachios, are sourced

(331 472-4767). – Anne Knudsen

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 D.O.C. WINE BAR: 326 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 627-6666. Light, contemporary fare plus 300 wines. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9.

Chef’s Choice: Butcher’s block. Entrée prices: $9-$35. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, lounge, wine flights, retail shop, private dining, daily specials.

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

EDDIE MERLOT’S: 28254 Diehl Rd, Warrenville.

630 393-1900. Upscale contemporary steakhouse with a lighter ambiance and known for its wine.

Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 5. Chef’s Choice: Prime aged steaks and wagyu. Entree prices: $23-$51.

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

Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 201 Bridewell Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 468-2098 EDEN ON THE RIVER: 1 Illinois St, St. Charles.

630 945-3332. Upscale dining in a riverside location with authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare. Capacity: 104 (inside); 100 (outside). Mths in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Baked Mediterranean Fish.

Entrée prices: $17-$25. Extras: Outdoor dining, live music, kids and gluten-free menus. T-Th 4-11, F-Sat 4-11:45.; Sun 4-9. Reservations: Recommended.

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.

Entree 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. FIRE + WINE: 433 N Main St, Glen Ellyn.

630 793-9955. Rustic and inviting restaurant with modern Italian flair, serving small-plate fare, authentic Neapolitan artisan pizzas and classic pastas in a family-friendly atmosphere. Capacity: 135. Yrs in bus: 5. Chef’s Choice: Hanger Steak and Grilled Romaine Salad. Entrée prices: $9-$19. Extras: Bar, carry-out, wine list, craft beer, kids’ menu, private event hosting, specials. T-Th 4-10, F 4-11, Sat 3-11 and Sun 3-9 (bar closes 1 hour later).

FOGO DE CHÃO: 1824 Abriter Ct, Naperville.

630 955-0022. Brazilian steakhouse known for churrasco style of cooking meats over an open fire in a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Capacity: 200. Mths in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Cordeiro and Picanha. Entrée prices: Avg: $32/$49. Extras: Full bar, valet, seasonal patio, Sat and Sun brunch. Lunch: Sun-F 11-2; Dinner: M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 2-10:30, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 5460 Park Pl, Rosemont, 847 678-7200.

FOXFIRE STEAKS, CHOPS & SEAFOOD: 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 $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 on weekends.

FRONT STREET COCINA: 112 N Hale St, Wheaton.

630 668-2837. Mexican cuisine in a festive atmosphere.

Capacity: 125. Yrs in bus: 26. Chef’s Choice: Fajitas.

Entrée prices: $8-$12. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, family friendly, full bar, daily specials. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-11. Reservations: No. Affiliated with Front Street Cantina restaurants above.

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 or brisket grilled cheese. Entrée prices: $11-$20. Extras: TVs, sidewalk seating, full bar, carry-out, beer garden in The Backyard. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 11-10.

GAETANO’S: 7636 W Madison St, Forest Park.

708 366-4010. Rustic Italian dining in an intimate, contemporary atmosphere. Capacity: 90. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Chef’s four-course tasting menu.

Entrée prices: $16-$36. Extras: Cooking classes, private parties, wine dinners. M-Th 5-9:30, F-Sat 4:30-10:30. Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 15 E Main St, Batavia, 630 406-3009.

GENEVA ALE HOUSE: 319 W State St, Geneva.

630 262-3877. Upscale pub fare with regionally produced specialty brews and limited-availability beers. Capacity: 80. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: The Ale House Burger. Entrée prices: $13-$18. Extras: Beer dinners, burger of the month, carry-out. M-Sun 11 am-2 am. Reservations: Call ahead seatings.

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.

GIBSONS STEAKHOUSE: 5464 N River Rd, Rosemont.

847 928-9900. Classic American steakhouse in 1920s art-deco style. Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 17. Chef’s Choice: WR’s Chicago Cut. Entrée prices: $12-$52.

Extras: Piano bar (open until 2 am), live music. M-Sun 11-2. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 2105 S Spring Rd, Oak Brook, 630 954-0000.

HAMPTON SOCIAL: 705 Village Center Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 219-0009. East coast ambiance, with fresh seafood menu, plus burgers. Mths in bus: 3.

Chef’s Choice: Alaskan Sea Trout. Entrée prices: $16-$30. Extras: Cocktail menu, weekend brunch, live music. M-T 11-10, w-Th 11-11, Fri 11 am-midnight, Sun 10-10. Reservations: Yes. HARDWARE: 2000 W Orchard Rd, North Aurora.

630 299-3977. A sustainable gastro pub & brewery complete with a greenhouse and organic hop farm. Capacity: 220 Yrs in bus: 1 Chef’s Choice: Charcuterie. Entree prices: 14-40. Extras: Private parties, carry-out, 400 whiskeys, local craft beers, extensive wine list. T-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun noon-9. Reservations: Recommended.

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.

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r

HEMMINGWAY’S BISTRO: 211 N Oak Park Ave, Oak Park. 708 524-0806. Upscale French dishes in a Parisian bistro atmosphere. Capacity: 80. Yrs in bus: 14. Chef’s Choice: Herb-crusted whitefish. Entrée prices: $21-$35. Extras: Banquets, bar, valet parking on weekends, W & Sun jazz and martini night, Sun champagne brunch 11-3 with live jazz. M-Th 7 am-10 pm, F-Sat 7 am-11 pm, Sun 7 am-9:30 pm.

Reservations: Recommended.

HILLGROVE TAP: 800 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 290-0055. Traditional bar fare with a creative twist in a family friendly sports bar.

Capacity: 115, plus 50 on a patio. Yrs in bus: 1.

Chef’s Choice: Nacho Bites or Bourbon glazed pork chop. Entrée prices: $12-$19. Extras: TVs, 24 craft beers on tap, selection of bourbons and whiskeys, carry-out, happy hour, catering. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun 11-10 pm. Reservations: Accepted.

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. INDIAN HARVEST: 796 Royal St. George Dr, Naperville. 630 579-9500. Casual and upscale dining featuring vibrant Indian cuisine. Capacity: 160.

Yrs in bus: 19. Chef’s Choice: Tandoori lamb chops.

Entrée prices: $10-$23. Extras: Carry-out, catering, bar, buffet, private parties, outdoor dining, delivery.

Lunch M-F 11:30-2:15, Sat-Sun noon-2:45; Dinner Sun-Th 5-9:45, F-Sat 5-10:15. Reservations: Yes. IVY RESTAURANT: 120 N Hale St, Wheaton.

630 665-2489. Casually elegant dining featuring steaks, chops and seafood. Capacity: 170, plus 90 on the patio. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Black pepper shrimp. Entrée prices: Avg: $19.

Extras: Banquets, outdoor dining, carry-out.

M-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. LIVIA: 207 S Third St, Geneva. 630 402-6444.

Organically driven Italian cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Yrs in bus: 1. Entrée prices: $11-$27. Extras: Bar, children’s menu, outdoor dining, carry-out M-Th Noon-11- 10, F 11-11, Sat 10-11, Sun 10-9. Second location at 116 E Schiller St, Elmhurst, 630 402-6195. Reservations: OpenTable.

Additional location at 116 Schiller St., Elmhurst.

630 402-6195.

LIVIA ITALIAN EATERY 116 Schiller St, Elmhurst.

630 402-6195. Southern Italian cuisine in a lively, modern atmosphere. Capacity: 145. Mths: 2. Chef’s Choice: East Coast Oysters. Entrée prices: $16-$36.

Extras: Full bar, seasonal outdoor tables, private dining. M-T 11-9, W-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9.

Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 207 3rd St, Geneva. 630 402-6444.

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: 8. 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. MORTON’S: 1751 Freedom Dr, Naperville.

630 577-1372. An upscale American steakhouse featuring an à la carte menu. Capacity: 175. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Porterhouse steak and veal chop. Entrée prices: $40-$60. Extras: Bar, free valet parking T-Sat, lounge, private dining, patio. M-Th 5:30-10, F 5:30-11, Sat 5-11, Sun 5-10. Reservations: Recommended. Additional locations at 9525 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, 847 678-5155; and 1470 McConnor Pkwy, Schaumburg, 847 413-8771.

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CHEERS

DINING

By Buzz Brandt

NOBEL HOUSE: 305 W State St, Geneva. 630 402-0452.

American comfort food, handcrafted cocktails and in-house smoked meats served up at this gastro pub. Capacity: 70. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Smoked brisket sandwich. Entrée prices: $10-$15.

Extras: Carry-out, full bar, Wi-Fi, TVs, catering, brunch Sat & Sun, kids’ menu, 30 taps. M-T 11-10, W-Th 11-11, F 11-2 am, Sat-Sun 10-2 am. Reservations: No.

Noble Rot Premium wines finessed from hand-picked grapes

B

otrytis cinerea — a member of the same family of fungi that afflicts strawberries, bread, cheese and even human feet — is a mold dreaded by winegrowers.

Called “gray rot” or “bunch rot,” it can spread like a virus through vineyards, destroying entire harvests at a rapid pace. During prolonged damp weather conditions, the fungal spores germinate filaments that invade the skins or broken stems of immature grapes, darkening the berries to a brownish-purple color.

The blight then sucks out their water content and shrivels them, leaving them coated with a brownish-gray powdery mold until they completely desiccate and drop from their stems.

Sauternes from Bordeaux is one such wine (the most notable example being the exquisite Château d’Yquem), produced from predominantly Semillon grapes often blended with a portion of Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle.

Others are Barsac (from Bordeaux, with the same grapes as Sauternes); Loire Valley Moelleux (Chenin Blanc); German Beerenauslese and

Trockenbeerenauslese (Riesling and Guwürztraminer); and Hungarian Tokaji Aszú (Furmint and Hárslevelü).

These golden-hued wines are sensuously rich and complex, with nectar-like aromas and flavors of honey, apricots, peaches, pears, tropical fruits, orange marmalade, caramel, nuts, ginger, mushrooms and even beeswax. Because of their significant acid content, sometimes more elevated alcohol levels, and high

residual sugar these wines can age for decades.

Noble Rot wines are expensive — and for good reasons. The fungus can be unpredictable and sporadic throughout the vineyard and can appear at different stages in the growing cycle. Berries have to be selected and picked by hand, often in several successive outings, and juice yields are extremely low — it can take one vine to produce just one glass of wine.

EXPERT WINE RECOMMENDATIONS • MARIO GRADO Vintage 53 162 S. First St., St. Charles (630 549-0423) 2014 Cooper and Thief “Bourbon Barrel Aged” Red Blend (Calif.) $50.

A rich, textured and jammy Merlot-based blend showcasing deep ripe aromas and flavors of blackberries, black raspberries and vanilla intermingled with accents of black pepper, spice, and bourbon and oak from aging in former bourbon barrels.

Tannins are soft and approachable and the finish is long.

2015 Silk and Spice Sogrape Vinhos (Portugal) $34.

Chock full of black fruits, this ruby blend shows off a nose of vanilla, mocha and spices, then a silky plum-based palate with hints of pepper and spice. Very balanced with soft tannins and a persistent finish.

•CYNDI SCHOFIELD-ALLAS Tannins 112 N. York St., Elmhurst, (630 834-4800) 2015 Bellingham The Bernard Series Chenin Blanc Old Vine Coastal Region (South Africa) $28.

Scents of apple, peach, citrus, tropical fruits and honeysuckle greet the nose, with a palate backed by hints of buttered oak and honeyed spice, all balanced by racy acidity and a round, creamy mouthfeel.

2014 Marrenon Ventoux Grenache Orca Vieilles Vignes (France) $27. Bold flavors of cherries, plums, blackberries and currants merge with notes of coffee and tobacco in this powerful Rhône red.

This is a balanced medium body, with supple tannins and good acidity.

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.

PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE & GRILLE: 5 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 630 571-1808. Classic steakhouse with premium steaks and fare prepared tableside.

Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: 14–oz New York Strip steak and Perry’s Famous Pork Chops.

Entrée prices: $26-$59. Extras: island bar, patio, live music M-Sat, carry-out. M-Th 4-10, F 11-10, Sat 4-11 Sun 4-9 (bar open later). Reservations: Yes. 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.

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.

PUEBLA MODERN MEXICAN: 51 S First St, St. Charles. 630 945-3408. Contemporary Mexican featuring quality fare in a trendy atmosphere.

Capacity: 155. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Tacos.

Entrée prices: $15-$24. Extras: Private parties, catering, bar with 50 types of tequila, half-priced margaritas on M, Taco Tuesdays. M-Th 11:30-9, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11:30-8. Reservations: Yes. PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL: 1100 American Ln, Schaumburg. 224 836-9080. Specialty burgers and sandwiches served in an industrial/Victorian style space. Capacity: 108 main diner, 100 bar, 75 patio.

Yrs in bus: 10. Chef’s Choice: The American Burger.

Entrée prices: $8-$21. Extras: Carry-out, brunch, karaoke, bar, happy hour, outdoor seating, TVs, ping pong, bowling, shuffleboard, darts, vintage arcade games, live DJ. M-Th 11-11, F 11 am-2 am, Sat 9 am-2 am, Sun 9 am-11pm. Reservations: Accepted.

REEL CLUB: 272 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook.

630 368-9400. Fresh fish and sushi in contemporary ambiance. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Sea bass & sushi. Entrée prices: $20-$35.

Extras: Lounge, private dining, outdoor dining, carry-out. M-Th 11:15-10, F-Sat 11:15-10:30, Sun 10-9, Sun brunch 10-2. Reservations: Yes.

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RESERVE ROOM: 123 Water St, Naperville.

331 472-4767. Intimate, upscale dining with contemporary American fare. Capacity: 44.

Mths in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Grilled Maple Leaf Farms Duckling Breast. Extras: Private events, 16 wines by the glass daily, outdoor seating, expert sommeliers. T-S 5-10. Reservations: Recommended.

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. ROKA AKOR: 166 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, 630 634-7652. Diners sit around a robata grill in a convivial form of “fireside cooking” featuring prime steak as well as sushi and nigiri. Mths in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Omakase personal tasting menu. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, three private dining rooms.

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. Mths in bus: 10. Entrée prices: $35-$49. Extras: Private room, full bar. M-Sat 5-11 SEASONS 52: 3 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook.

630 571-4752. Fresh grill and wine bar focusing on low-calorie entrées and farmers’ marketinfluenced fare. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 5.

Chef’s Choice: Caramelized sea scallops. Entrée prices: $16-$25. Extras: Extensive wine list, live music, private dining. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 10-9. Reservations: Yes, recommended. Additional location at 1770 E Higgins Rd, Schaumburg.

847 517-5252.

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.

STEAK + VINE: 37 S La Grange Rd, La Grange.

708 579-0520. Neighborhood steakhouse with USDA prime meat in an urban space. Capacity: 109. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Prime rib-eye. Entrée prices: Avg: $25. Extras: Bar, over 80 wines, 46 beers and ciders, craft cocktails, 102 whiskeys and bourbons.

M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. SUGARTOAD: Hotel Arista, 2139 CityGate Ln, Naperville. 630 778-8623. American cuisine with a French touch in a modern décor. Capacity: 80.

Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Scallops. Entrée prices: $18-$35 (dinner). Extras: Bar, catering, on-site garden, carry-out, weekend brunch 7-2. M-Sat 6:30 am-10 pm, Sun 6:30 am-9 pm. Reservations: Yes.

Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs 483 Spring Road www.robertosristorante.com

•

Elmhurst

630.279.8486

Mon - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm • Fri 11 am - midnight • Sat 4 pm - midnight • Sun 2 - 10 pm

SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE: 244 S Main St, Naperville.

630 305-0230. Steak, chops and seafood in a Chicagostyle décor. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 18. Chef’s Choice: Seafood and steak. Entrée prices: $30-$60. Extras: Bar, live entertainment, valet parking. M-Sat 4:30-11, Sun 3-9. Reservations: Recommended.

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.

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Sister Cities Continued from page 35

member from Naperville. “The people of Le Bouscat were full of joy,” he says.

“They seemed genuinely happy we had traveled all that way from their Sister City.”

While Sister Cities are not about competition, Nieland does not hesitate when asked the inevitable question. “Oh, we were better,” he says of the two choirs.

The two towns paired up after a Le Bouscat resident visited the Chicago area and was struck by how similar Glen Ellyn was to her town — small, prosperous and with people proud of and actively engaged in their community.

Representatives of Le Bouscat have toured village entities, businesses, the College of DuPage and Glenbard West High School.

The annual Glen Ellyn Market Francais features French delicacies, mimes and even French bulldogs. Last year a Sister City mural, handpainted by Glen Ellyn residents, was unveiled at the fair.

In 2015, using personal funds, then-Village President Alex Demos traveled to Le Bouscat with his wife.

Current President Diane McGinley hosted a welcoming party for five French cyclists last summer and made sure they sampled local favorites like Giordano’s pizza and Portillos. The portions astounded them, as did nearly everything else about the suburbs. “They were just amazed at how big everything was — the cars, the houses, the grocery stores,” says Nyquist.

In turn, the French made an impression on Nyquist’s 8-year-old son.

“He asked me if the French guys can come back again this summer,” she says.

Bolingbrook/Sialkot, Pakistan Last summer, Bolingbrook partnered with Sialkot, a thriving city of half a million. The bond makes sense. Pakistanis are the second fastest-growing Asian immigrant group (behind Bangladeshis) in the United States, and Sialkot exported

$2 billion worth of goods in 2015.

Bolingbrook also has a sizeable Pakistani population. The Association of Pakistani Americans of Bolingbrook has been hosting Pakistan Independence Day events for a quarter century — the community is reportedly the only U.S. town that holds an annual ceremony of hoisting the Pakistani flag.

The relationship will allow Bolingbrook to foster educational, health, agricultural and information technology opportunities for Sialkot residents. Sialkot will support educational, healthcare, business and civic groups of Bolingbrook. It’s too early to tell how the relationship will evolve.

Sometimes Sister City connections thrive for a while but peter out. Western Springs was a Sister City with Rugeley, England, in the 1950s. British flags once hung prominently on light poles downtown. But after a series of events commemorating the 40th anniversary in 1997 the relationship faded.

Sometimes Sister Cities are the stuff of rumor and legend. Oak Park is believed to be a Sister City of Pamplona, Spain, the site of the famous Running of the Bulls that native son Hemingway wrote about. “That comes up from time to time. But as far as I know it’s never been the case,” says Dave Powers, a spokesperson for Oak Park.

Despite challenges such as occasional lukewarm interest; lack of funding; and now the ubiquity of digital technology, which thrusts the world at one’s fingertips; Sister Cities continue to unite people in different nations and dissolve differences in ways that smartphones and laptops can’t. “Meeting real people in real time provides a truer sense of another culture,” says Ash. Adds Hall, “You don’t make memories through social media. But you do over dinner, on a trip to see a castle or on a walking tour through a town.”

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DINING 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. 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.

TALLGRASS: 1006 S State, Lockport. 815 838-5566.

Modern French cuisine in an intimate Victorian building. Capacity: 32. Yrs in bus: 37. Chef’s Choice: Lobster lasagna. Entrée prices: $59, $69 & $79 for 3, 4 & 5 course dinners. Extras: Bar, private parties.

W-Sun 6 pm-10. Reservations: Required.

UNCLE JULIO’S HACIENDA: 2360 Fountain Square Dr, Lombard. 630 705-9260. Tex-Mex food in a family friendly and festive atmosphere. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Fajitas. Entrée prices: $10-$27. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering. Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11. .

UNION HOUSE: 0S050 Winfield Rd, Winfield.

630 456-4188. American Farm-to-table kitchen with seasonal cuisine. Capacity: 65 plus 20 on patio. Yrs in bus: 3.5. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp & grits.

Entrée prices: $5-$30. Extras: Full bar with 40 beers, outdoor patio, occasional live music, carry-out, catering, free Wi-Fi. Lunch T-F 11-2; Dinner T-Th 5-10, F-Sat 4-11.

VICTORY MEAT AND SEAFOOD: 116 N York Rd, Elmhurst, 630 359-5599. Light, airy space with a wide-ranging menu of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and cocktails. Capacity: 32. Mths in bus: 2.

Chef’s Choice: Crispy Herb Brick Chicken. Entrée prices: $19-$35. Extras: Oyster bar, full bar, wine list.

Reservations: Recommended.

VIE: 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-2082.

Seasonal, contemporary American à la carte menu with European influences in an elegant atmosphere. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi. Entrée prices: $26-$46. Extras: Bar, gluten-free and vegetarian options, private parties.

M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10. Reservations: Yes. VILLA VERONE: 416 Hamilton St, Geneva.

630 232-2201. Casual, upscale dining serving Italian favorites. Capacity: 200. Yrs in bus: 19. Entrée prices: $13-$25. Chef’s Choice: Pasta. Extras: Carry-out, live entertainment, outdoor dining, bar and club (open later). M-Th 11:30-9, F 11:30-10, Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9.

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: 6. 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.

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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Photos courtesy of Five Lake Arts

SCENE&SEEN

Charitable Events of Note

The 2018 Pillars Ball Committee was led by co-chairs Julie Serrano (second from left) and Rose Ashby (third from left), both of La Grange.

FNBC Bank & Trust in La Grange was a gold sponsor of the 2018 Pillars Ball.

Staff members from the senior leadership team at Pillars Community Health

ON JANUARY 20, PILLARS COMMUNITY HEALTH hosted the 2018 Pillars Ball at the Oak Brook Hills Hilton Resort. The event marked the organization’s first fundraiser as a merged organization (Community Nurse Health Center and Pillars merged to form Pillars Community Health). $250,000 was raised to support the institution

Photos by Dusty Holoubek, My Marketing Tech

that integrates medical and dental care with mental health and social services.

Pillars Community Health is led by Board Chair Zada Clarke of Western Springs (left) and President and CEO Angela Curran, of La Grange.

Pat and Louise Hillegass of Hinsdale

NEARLY 150 PEOPLE PARTICIPATED ON JANUARY 24 for the DuPage Foundation’s Next

Luke and Tamara Ortegel and Lauren Inzerra of Naperville

Generation Initiative’s (NGI) Inaugural Charity Trivia Night at Empire Burgers & Brew in downtown Naperville. Over $3000 was raised to help NGI increase the size and impact of its grant making from the Next Generation Initiative Fund to area not-for-profits. The funds will strengthen NGI’s ability to champion philanthropy throughout the community and provide DuPage residents with opportunities to connect with one another, learn and give back to important causes.

Jessica Segal, Megan Lynch, Bill Todtz, Dean Bacon, Jared Bogan and Nathan Ronchetti; Team North Central College, Naperville

Matt Timmerberg of Naperville and Laura Ernst of the DuPage Foundation in Downers Grove

Beth Sitrick and Mike Sitrick, vice president for advancement at the DuPage Foundation in Lombard

Katelyn Moon of The Driskill Foundation and Devon Moon of Sebold Capital Management, both in Naperville

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Photos courtesy of Catholic Charities

MORE THAN 900 CULINARY ENTHUSIASTS gathered at the 2018 Grand Chefs Experience on February 2nd at the Field Museum in Chicago where they raised over $350,000 to support the CF Foundation in its mission to find

Photos courtesy of Soda Fountain Photography

a cure for cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease affecting 30,000 Americans.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES RECENTLY HOSTED THE 17TH ANNUAL D’VINE AFFAIR at the Union League Club of Chicago. More than 475 guests attended, and over $120,000 was raised for Catholic Charities self-sufficiency programs.

John and Renee Pollock of Aurora

Pat and Whitney West of Naperville, and Ann and Charlie Koerner of Oswego

James Downing and Erin O’Neill of Oak Park Mike and Cheryl Waters of La Grange

KATIE KEMPKE, A CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT in Elmhurst Clinic’s pediatrics practice, recently donated 100 chemo bags to Elmhurst Hospital’s Nancy W. Knowles Cancer Center.

The bags include items to help patients during cancer therapy. With support from family and

Photo courtesy of Edward-Elmhurst Health

friends, Kempke made the donation through the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Julie and Mike Lerch of Downers Grove

Kelly and Steve Pairolero of St. Charles and Corey Wise of Elmhurst Terrell and Danielle Shell of Joliet

(From left) Susan Tyburski, executive director, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation, Lisa Stucky-Marshall, oncology clinical nurse specialist, Nancy W. Knowles Cancer Center, Colleen Davies (Kempke’s mother) and Katie Kempke

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LAST WORD

By Michele Weldon

Right Place, Wrong Time?

A curious urge to step back in time — and dress the part

I

think I may have been born in the wrong era, about 180 years too late.

But then again, maybe not. I love the clothes from way back when, and the elaborate pomp and circumstance, though I acknowledge that little else was convenient.

Of course, I would never be able to tolerate a life pre-microwave, pre-Spanx or even pre-Lyft. I could not bear a moment of an existence before Google could provide the answer to any dispute over who did what, when throughout history. That ingenious search engine is the single greatest tool for salvation in every relationship. You can be right immediately.

Or wrong. One click and it’s over. Ta-daa.

A generation before the turn of the 20th century, the clothes were indisputably magnificent. That is, if you were part of the upper, upper crust or just plain blue-blood royalty. I know this because every week when I watch Victoria on PBS-TV, I swoon.

The colors, the sumptuous swaying of the gowns and the trim on the coats — all supremely elaborate, delicate reminders of the painstaking effort spent on creating them. This was all on display in mid-19th century elite England, when letters were calligraphed and dinner required dozens of servants, just for the desserts.

I dream of what could have been if I had been there in Buckingham Palace alongside Queen Victoria and her dreamy Prince Albert. Not as her servant, of course.

Maybe as her sister or cousin, with some small country to place under my wing or in my gold-encrusted handbag.

Every inch of the hand-crafted lace, every yard of carefully spun silk, makes me long for a different time. The hats,

“Women’s outfits of those eras were never practical or accessible and we have nothing comparable today that even matches that excess.

That is why they are so appealing.”

the shawls, the tiaras! Oh, the silk draperies and the bed linens, the carpets and furniture in jewel tones of rubies and sapphires, turquoise and emeralds — all of it so luxurious and unattainable.

I am not myopic about history. I do know that most of England went hungry and lived in poor health and squalor, all while palace inhabitants went about their galas. Mine is just an empty wish, of course, so it is without real consequence.

For the record, I would not mind living just 100 years ago if only I could wear the wardrobe of Miss Phryne Fisher, an Australian detective in another PBS show I cannot resist, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries. She wears handmade coats embellished with embroidery and jeweled stitching over lean trousers and silk dresses, all while solving crimes.

My desire to live in a better dressed era is derived from my belief that the clothes of today are simply recycled fragments of wardrobes I owned in the 70s, 80s or 90s.

And I do not want to go back.

I recently spotted my niece in a Facebook post wearing jeans I believe I wore in 1973. High waisted and flared, they could well have been the ones I wore in a photo in my high school yearbook. I wonder if I have saved a pair somewhere.

Oh, right, they would be the wrong size.

A fashion magazine I perused in a doctor’s office reveals that shoulder pads are back in style. And it was only a decade ago that I removed all the pads from my suit jackets and coats. Back then, they were part of the armor we wore in the workplace, believing 42-inch shoulders would make everything go well.

I don’t even want to talk about the jumpsuits rearing their ugly zippers and snaps. It seems that everything on sale now boasts a look I already donned when I was much younger, and frankly, way better looking.

Perhaps the reason I want to go so far back in time is that I’ve never worn clothes like that — ever. Yes, I am just fine with pretending I am English royalty or even an Australian sleuth, because both are absurd fantasies. Women’s outfits of those eras were never practical or accessible and we have nothing comparable available today that even matches that excess. That is why they are so appealing.

I can waste a few moments a week appreciating wardrobe dreams that will never be realized. Then I can grab an item from my closet that looks eerily similar to something I wore a long time ago. I just have to remind myself that I am different today, more evolved, with new sensibilities — in just the right place for now.

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