GETAWAY TO ANN ARBOR
SPOTLIGHT ON GENEVA
TOP AREA HIGH SCHOOLS
JULY/AUGUST 2017 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING • ICE CREAM DREAMS
Ice Cream Dreams
VOL. 22 • NUMBER
Q&A
Where to go this summer for an ice cold scoop of happiness
JULY/AUGUST 2017 $3.95
www.westsuburbanliving.net
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WITH POPULAR BANJO-TOTING KIDS SINGER JIM GILL
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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Managing Editor | Anne Knudsen Assistant Editor | Sarah Astra Art Director | Rachel Switall Interns | Alyssa Pozen & Rebecca Wood Contributing Writers Laurie Barton, Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Jay Copp, Erin Chan Ding, Lynn Petrak, Diana Santos, Lisa Sloan, Patti F. Smith, Sara Pearsaul Vice, Michele Weldon and Tom Witom Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Convenient Hours: Mon 9am-8pm; Tues 9am-9pm; Wed 8am-8pm; Thurs 6am-10pm; Fri & Sat 6am-5pm
Accounting Jennifer Cozette Circulation Coordinator
518 N. Main Street,Glen Ellyn 630.790.8001 • www.lineasalon.com
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)
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West Suburban Living is a publication of C2 Publishing, Inc. 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 630.834.4995 / 630.834.4996 (fax) wsl@westsuburbanliving.net subscriptions@westsuburbanliving.net www.westsuburbanliving.net No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of C2 Publishing, Inc. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of West Suburban Living or its parent company. West Suburban Living (Vol. 22, No. 7 JULY/AUGUST 2017; ISSN No. 1532-6705) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/December issues (10 times a year) by C2 Publishing, Inc., 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162, 630 834-4995, fax 630 834-4996. Periodicals postage paid at Elmhurst, Illinois and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: 1 year $15; 2 years $24; 3 years $32. Single copy $3.95; back issues, as available, $7. West Suburban Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to West Suburban Living Magazine, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Printed in USA.
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Contents |
July/August
|
2017
Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
West Suburban Living
22
Getaways Ann Arbor
A cool college town — and so much more.
Home&Garden
64
The Inside-Out Kitchen
Landscape designers and outdoor furniture specialists offer hot trends for the gourmet in the garden.
Town Focus
68
64
GENEVA
Old world charm meets chic city vibe — and a river runs through it.
Photo by Kim Byrne of KimberleeB Photography
SPECIAL SECTION
Features 44
56
Higher EDUCATION GUIDE
Beyond the lecture hall — innovative programs and corporate partnerships provide experiential learning opportunities and lead to real-world success. Plus listings of area colleges and universities.
68
Much ado about ice cream Where to go this summer for an ice cold scoop of happiness.
52
Guide to AREa public high schools A statistical comparison of west suburban high schools. See how your local school ranks.
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NOW OPEN IN GENEVA !
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July/August
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Peter frampton
2017
Photo courtesy of La Grange Business Association
West Suburban Living
Photo by John Lill
Departments
11
Keepin’ iT Cool
Photo courtesy of Cornerstone Restaurant Group
by Pam Keller
77
27 Around the Towns
Perspectives
8
18
88
FOREWORD
Recalling many fond memories associated with ice cream
12
BY THE NUMBERS
16
Q&A
20
LAST WORD
The great outdoors may just be nature’s way of promoting spa visits and luxury hotel stays.
Intriguing numerical tidbits
with Jim Gill, Oak Park early childhood educator disguised as a banjo-toting singer-songwriter
LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY
Historic Farnsworth residence in Plano to play a starring role in upcoming Hollywood film
westsuburbanliving.net The go-to site for the Best of the Western Suburbs at your fingertips!
86
Dining
78
REVIEW: Primo in Geneva
New book releases from west suburban writers
80
REVIEW: D^licious Crêpes & Rõti in Bartlett
SCENE & SEEN
77
NEW RESTAURANTS
LOCAL AUTHORS
A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events
Michael Jordan’s Restaurant in Oak Brook, SixtyFour — A Wine Bar in Naperville, and Vintage 53 in St. Charles
Style&Fashion
14
STOPS & SHOPS
New stores and hidden gems
Out&About
27
84
CHEERS
Albariño: Spain’s Galician gem
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The best in music, theatre and other area events
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editor’s Note “As you wake up tomorrow, don’t be dismayed to find
Ice Cream and Sweet Summer Memories
your life turn ordinary soon enough. When you realize
S
that today is kind of similar to yesterday and a bit like tomorrow, ask yourself who is becoming whole again on your watch, what is being healed through your influence, how is God redeeming his creation by way of your life? Your good answers will surely be the mark of significance even in an ordinary life.” - LIsa Brosious Beamer
“Do not lose your enthusiasm. In its Greek etymology, the word enthusiasm means, “God in us.” - Ken Burns
“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.” - Albert Einstein
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much,
ome of my best memories revolve around ice cream. As a kid, I fondly recall summer visits to my grandparents in Memphis, Tennessee, where seemingly every evening my grandmother would dish up a generous serving of vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce. It was your basic chocolate sundae, but it tasted soooo good! In retrospect, perhaps it somehow tasted better because of who was serving it and where I was when I was eating it. Then, of course, there was the Good Humor man who, when I was young, made regular rounds through our neighborhood during the summer. In the back of my head, I can still hear the tingling of the bells of the infamous white truck. At the first sound of those familiar bells, all the neighborhood kids made a mad dash for home to dig out money from their savings or plead for some spare change from their parents. Then it was back to the truck where a big decision awaited — Dreamsicle or Fudgsicle, ice cream sandwich or maybe even a splurge on a chocolate eclair bar. During my first two years of playing Little League baseball, I fondly recall having a coach who clearly understood how to motivate young boys. He operated on an old-school incentive system. When we won, he regularly treated the whole team at the local ice cream shop, Dipper Dan’s. If we lost, it was a quick “we’ll get ‘em next time” talk to the team and that was it. I can’t say for sure there was a connection, but that team ended up winning a lot of ballgames. Years later in high school, the ice cream shop of choice was Baskin-Robbins
and whoever is dishonest with very little will also
31 Flavors, for a mint chocolate chip cone with a girl with whom I hoped to win favor. More recently, as an adult, wanting to pass some positive ice cream memories on to my kids as well, our regular summer trips to southwestern Michigan were never complete without at least one — and often several — trips to Oink’s, the popular pig-themed ice cream establishment in New Buffalo. While we still make trips to Oink’s whenever we are in that area, fortunately there are now all sorts of great ice cream shops much closer to home. I can’t say I have been to every one of the places highlighted in our article, “Much Ado About Ice Cream” on page 44, but I have been to many of them. And this summer — purely in the interest of better serving our readers, of course — I am selflessly planning on checking out as many of the others as I can. We hope your favorite ice cream shop made our list and that perhaps you find a few new ones worth a visit as well. Because whenever ice cream is involved, good memories are sure to follow! Have a great summer and, as always, thanks for being a reader!
be dishonest with much.” - Luke 16:10
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Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net |
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THE
AROUND TOWNS |
STOPS & SHOPS
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LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY
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LOCAL AUTHORS Photos courtesy of Downtown Naperville Alliance and Elmhurst City Centre
Q&A
Summer Street Art
E
asy, breezy summer reading in Naperville is made all the more enjoyable by the installation of 15 beautifully crafted and hand-painted benches, thoughtfully positioned in the downtown shopping district. Reminding shoppers of the joy of reading, the benches are shaped to resemble open books and are styled after popular favorites like Harry Potter, Treasure Island, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Goodnight Moon and The Wizard of Oz. The benches are part of wave of summer street art,
originally inspired by Chicago’s whimsical Cows on Parade, that has taken hold in the western suburbs. Relax into a painted Adirondack chair in St. Charles, smile at happy metal flower structures or abstract stacked cubes in Elmhurst, check out the eye-popping colors of the drink coolers in La Grange, visit the mini dinosaurs at shops in Elgin or tour the decorated bicycles at Pedal Geneva. All are created in partnership with local businesses and, as summer ends, these pop-art pieces will be sold to benefit good causes.
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28,525
Photo by Anne Evans
the
By Numbers
$25 million has left almost nothing untouched in the recently completed restoration of an icon of modern architecture — Unity Temple in Oak Park. One of 87 National Historic Landmarks in Illinois (including 10 in the western suburbs), it is Frank Lloyd Wright’s most notable public commission.
Designing at the pinnacle of his success at just 38 years old, the architect over-ran the original budget of $40,000 by 50 percent. A series of low, dark passages Wright named “cloisters” leads to the inner sanctuary where 25 square skylights of amber-tinted leaded glass flood the spiritual heart of the building with warmth and sunlight. Multiple tiered balconies ensure Within the 135-acre Spring Valley Nature Centre in Schaumburg lies Bison’s Bluff, a fun-filled patch of land where kids get to play the way their grandparents played. This 38,400-sq-ft corner, landscaped with logs, boulders and a meandering 200-ft stream, is an invitation to enjoy the thrill of outdoor play in a natural setting. There are three climbing towers — the tallest soaring almost 21 feet high — a 10-ft rock-climbing bluff and a small waterfall that splashes into a pond and stream lined with 5,000 colorful river rocks. Log crossings, stepping stones, a beaver lodge and a sand play area make for hours of
that no person in the congregation is more than 40 feet from the pulpit. The June reopening of the temple neatly coincided with the 150th anniversary of the architect’s birth.
6,400
square feet of innovation comprise the new IN2 center at the prestigious Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy in Aurora. The $1.9 million facility is dedicated to igniting young minds to reach extraordinary levels of achievement in math and science. The center was made possible by a gift of $1 million from YouTube co-founder and former IMSA student Steve Chen, plus $650,000 from Tellabs Foundation. IN2 is STEM on steroids — an Idea Bar, complete with an Idea Barista, is an expert-run mentoring café; the CoolHub inspires problem solving and collaboration; two Launch Pads are hubs for tech start-ups; and the IMSA-hosted “hackathon” is a brain-storming outreach event. With a student body of 650 in grades 10 to 12, IMSA is a public, tuition-free high school, preparing students to be tomorrow’s innovators and the future stewards of the planet.
unstructured fun. Opened in late March, the playground welcomed 28,525 visitors in its first 10 weeks. The total cost of the development was $2.7 million, of which $64,000 was donated by local friends and support groups. The number of wet, sandy socks abandoned at Bison Bluff each week? 25 (not
Photos courtesy of Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley
surprisingly, an odd number).
“The Settlers” mural at the Glen Ellyn Post Office
11/1,400
As part of the Depression Era New Deal, when a third of the U.S. workforce was unemployed, President
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Federal Art Project commissioned 1,400 murals to embellish newly built post office buildings across the nation. The western suburbs is home to 11 — all installed between 1935 and 1943. For the last 80 years, a giant oil-on-canvas painting,“The Settlers,” by Ohio-born artist Daniel Rhodes, has graced the lobby of the Glen Ellyn post office. For the 144” by 65” work, Rhodes received $630, paid in three installments and representing one percent of the cost of the new building. In 2002, conservationists used 1,000 Q-tips to meticulously clean the work.
Melrose Park’s fresco, also from 1937 and once thought destroyed, was happily rediscovered,
though in dire condition, behind a drop ceiling. Restored, it now hangs in the public library.
Tour the post office murals in Berwyn, Oak Park, Forest Park, Brookfield, Melrose Park (library),
Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Lemont, Downers Grove, Naperville (adjoining bank building) and Geneva.
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Stops&Shops
Photo by Diana Santos
Photo courtesy of Treasure House
Photo courtesy of Cocoon
Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites
Treasure House
Cocoon
bouq box
Find your own treasures while
Need Something new to brighten
Stunning Blooms, DELICATE
helping others at this volunteer-
your home or a special gift for a
Ornamentals and striking gifts
staffed thrift and consignment shop that benefits Metropolitan Family Services DuPage, a human services agency providing counseling, youth mentoring and senior respite care. The store is bright and attractive, with well-staged merchandise such as housewares, linens, antiques, clothing, jewelry, toys, books, like-new small appliances and seasonal home décor. The best seller is the furniture, often purchased for family rooms and vacation homes. Wedding gowns, formal attire and prom dresses are also popular. Most unusual donation sold? Prosthetic eyeballs! Also, an antique wooden leg and false teeth. All sold quickly around Halloween. A civil war sword and a WWI helmet were among other recent donations. Treasure House is located at 497 Pennsylvania Ave. in Glen Ellyn (630 469-6907). For those looking to donate, arrangements can be made for home pick-up or help with items brought by car. — Laurie Barton
friend or relative? You can find it all at Cocoon, 212 S. Third St., Geneva (630 232-8340). Just inside the door are the popular Capri Blue brand candles, while Illume and Finchberry can be found throughout the shop. Hearth and Hammer soy candles, made in Batavia, have unusual scents. Customized cutting boards make welcome gifts, as do pillows with fun, inspiring messages, Sid Dickens tiles and Musee hand-wrapped bath bombs. There’s jewelry, purses and scarves, too. An entire room is devoted to gifts for men, with Pré de Provence soap and lotion, Royal Apothic skin care, Whiskey River Soap Co. candles — the popular Candle for Hipsters is scented with coffee, bacon and craft beer. Whimsical gifts include Freaker Brand socks and bottle covers. Another room is devoted to merchandise for children. Cocoon’s friendly staff will assist in finding special items in the many areas of this warm and inviting store. — Laurie Barton
are the heart and soul of Peter Sadler’s full-service floral shop, Bouq Box in the Burr Ridge Village Center (440 Village Center Dr., 630 560-0955). Sadler and his talented, experienced staff create elegant European floral designs with contemporary flair to complement every occasion. Intriguing “air” plants and hardy succulents are captured in unusual containers for visual interest, while Modern Sprout herb gardens are magical, no-maintenance treasures. Cynthia Dunn flower sack towels and Darren Gygi nature-inspired prints add hints of nostalgia. Being a Londoner, Sadler couldn’t resist including luxurious Michel Design Works bath and body products in the array of Bouq Box’s many indulgences. Look for botanical design classes this fall as well as partnering activities with local restaurants for a fun, imaginative experience. — Diana Santos
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. desitter tile and stone gallery, formerly in La Grange, relocated to the larger Glen Ellyn showroom at 444 Roosevelt Rd. (708 653-5200). The La Grange carpet and flooring showroom at 1 N.
Kensington remains open. Hanna andersson Casual, chic, organic fashions for young children, inspired by Swedish styles. 140 W. Jefferson Ave, Naperville. (331 250-7100)
Glam & Glitz Boutique On-trend women’s fashions, with a sister boutique in Naperville. 232 E Main St., Barrington. (224 848-4320) sinfully delicious cupcakes Bakery and ice
cream shop with 20 flavors of cupcakes. 111 Stephen St., Lemont. (708 737-1094) inspired closets Top-trending brands at contemporary home design and organization showroom.
1S550 Rt. 83, Oakbrook Terrace. (630 560-6582). kendra scott National brand jewelry and accessories retailer. 100 Oakbrook Center, #167, Oak Brook. (866 677-7023)
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Q&A
Jim Gill/ Oak Park early childhood educator disguised as a banjo-toting singer-songwriter Photo by A. French
n Which came first, educator or musician?
Across the western suburbs, Jim Gill IS a rock star with the under-5 set. Toting a banjo and armed with a lively repertoire of silly songs,
JG: It’s funny, none of this was planned. When I was in college — just 20 years old — I was asked to lead play groups for children with special needs. I worked with an agency up in Evanston. It wasn’t meant to be about music at all, but I started doing some singalong activities. I found it was the best way of reaching kids. I worked with Little Friends in Naperville and a wonderful place in Elmhurst, the Center for Speech and Language Disorders. It’s renowned for its work with kids on the autism spectrum. The speech pathologists there would say what I was doing wasn’t therapy, but boy, it sure was good for the kids. People would see how much fun the play group was and say,‘Hey, why don’t you come sing at our library?’ At first, I didn’t think I could do that. I mean, I’m not an entertainer — it’s just a way to get everyone singing and playing together.
dance-alongs, tongue twisters and finger plays, he performs almost daily for toddlers and their
n Are you a trained musician?
families. In small library gatherings and at large
JG: No, I’m self-taught. I took lessons for a brief time with a teacher who wanted me to learn a blue-grass method of picking on the banjo. One day I took off the finger picks and showed him how I worked with kids. I had to strum with one hand — so I could use the other to keep the attention of the kids or show them motions or finger plays. The banjo is great for me because it’s what they call “open tune,” you just strum downwards and get a chord. In my songs, I just strum and I don’t need my left hand to play at all. You know the song, The Wheels on the Bus? Well, I can show all the motions with one hand and strum with the other. I thought it was pretty amazing — I could lead the play
outdoor festivals, Gill mesmerizes tots, who sing, clap, stomp, dance and jump along to a medley of rhyming banjo tunes. Look below the surface though, and it’s soon apparent that Gill is no ordinary kids’ entertainer. Along with each spoonful of silliness, he secretly slips in a large dose of early education. Gill first moved to Chicago to attend the University of Illinois and the Erikson Institute, where his graduate program was in child development. Twenty years ago, he settled in Oak Park, from where he travels the suburbs and the country, encouraging play — and early steps to literacy — among the very youngest of song-and-dance fans. A schedule of appearances, plus information on his award-winning recordings and books is available at www.jimgill.com.
Q&A
RAPID FIRE
group and play the banjo at the same time. But when I showed the teacher, he just threw up his hands and said,“That’s not how you play the banjo!” So I just quit. n When did you start writing?
JG: It was early on — I needed songs! I used some that everyone knows, like Alabama, Mississippi, which I’ve been singing forever. But it didn’t work with the banjo or with finger plays. I’d use recorded music, too, but it didn’t really match with what the kids wanted to hear. They needed better game songs. Then I came up with The Sneezing Song — it’s not really a song, it’s a game. It doesn’t have a great melody, but it really gets the kids playing. They like to join in with “Ahhh, ahhh, ahhh-choo!” That’s the game of it, you know? It was perfect because children with real language difficulties could get it and join in. And the brothers and sisters would like it, too — they’d laugh about the silly rhymes or think up new ones. It worked for everyone, at every level. It was also kind of a waiting game — all the “Ahhh, ahhh, ahhhhhh” would make the special needs kids listen so intently, watching closely for that final “choo!” It wasn’t that I was a great entertainer — it was just a really good game. n Is the music secondary to the games?
JG: Yes! For me, the music is just a great way to get everyone to play together. Here’s the strange thing about my career: I don’t think of myself as “famous” — I don’t have a commercial following and you won’t hear my music on kids’ radio stations or see my videos on TV. But I do have very, very loyal groups of people who spread my music
own food. It was kind of nutty but
It’s been a great place to raise our
it sticks with you. I always want a
kids. I have two daughters, ages 24
place where I can grow things.
and 21. I love how quiet it is here.
Where will readers bump into you?
If not this career, what? I’m a big
Favorite things to do in the ‘burbs?
What’s worth going downtown for?
I have a huge 100-lb dog, Lux.
fan of Ralph Nader, so I might have
I like to take long walks. I also like the
I like that I can hop on a train in
I walk her twice a day near
gone into public advocacy law.
bike paths. I love that I can get from
Oak Park and get to Millennium Park
the Frank Lloyd Wright homes
What do you do to relax? I’m a
Oak Park to St. Charles on a bicycle.
in 25 minutes. It’s kind of my favorite
in the Oak Park historic district.
gardener. We grew up raising our
Best thing about living in Oak Park?
thing to do.
n
J k o c w w — t B g s y t l p d i m I
n
a J w h 4 a o m w p p
n
c J a a i o n t f w
n
J
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around. There are pre-school teachers and therapists who use my music with kids with special needs. Another big group is the parents who learn about me by word of mouth. Another group I never expected is children’s librarians who use my songs for story time. They network with each other all across the country. Then there are children’s book festivals or family literacy events. n How young are the kids you play for?
JG: Anywhere from 1 year old up to kindergartners, or in that sphere. I was just out in a small town in Utah for a family concert, and whole families showed up with kids up through fourth or fifth grade who were completely enjoying it. They knew — and this is the thing to be clear about — that the music wasn’t aimed at them. But it was fun for them to play and get goofy with the little ones. I thought it was sweet that they were hanging out with their younger siblings and really getting into it. The thing is, kids — and parents — aren’t really listening to me. They’re singing along. They’re playing with each other. And that’s the difference. For larger concerts, my little banjo isn’t enough and I bring musicians along. It makes everything sound a lot better and I can put all my attention into the games. n What do you do with kids who
are just too wiggly to sit still? JG: It’s pretty rare I come across someone wigglier than I am. I mean, I’m a pretty high-energy person. A typical concert is 45 minutes, and there’s a lot of jumping up and down and dancing. I usually start right off the bat with songs that get everyone moving. And it’s over when they start getting worn out and can’t jump anymore. I’ll have parents tell my they can’t believe their kids paid attention for a whole 45 minutes. n When creating a new song, are you
consciously thinking of teaching kids? JG: No, it’s really the opposite. I think there’s a difference between child development and education. They certainly go together in early childhood, but teaching numbers or the days of the week or geography is just not my style. I’m more interested in all the things children learn through play, and how, frankly, we as adults help them develop if we get involved in the play. n Can you give an example?
JG: Here’s a good one — finger plays, like
The Itsy Bitsy Spider. I make up a lot of my own. There’s a really wonderful one called One from the Left and One from the Right that gets kids playing with numbers. I’ve been surprised to have teachers tell me little kids are learning so much math from my songs! I was even asked to speak at a conference on STEM for early childhood educators. When I write a new song, I think about finger movements and rhymes. I’m not thinking about giving an early math lesson, but that’s what it ends up being. Think about climbing stairs with a toddler, counting one, two, three as you go. That’s early math, just as in my games. I love it when kids yell out the math as part of a song. I get excited, like,“Hey, look, they’re really listening.” That’s great, but not every child is ready to do that. They’re all playing the same game, but they’re playing it differently. It includes everyone. I look at it as helping them learn, not teaching them. n Do you work differently when recording?
JG: My first records were on vinyl, I’ve been doing this so long! I’ve worked with the same great Chicago jazz musicians for 20 years and we’ve developed a process. I play a new song on the banjo and demonstrate the activity. They laugh, then, on the spot, play music that is a great illustration of the game. n Which songs are crowd favorites?
JG: One favorite is Spin Again, where the kids get to spin themselves until they’re dizzy. I like it because the dads really get into that one. Dads tend to be physical and sensory in their play, so the song is a good opportunity for that. Then there’s Toy Boat — it’s a tongue-twister game, made up of just those two words (try saying “toy boat” ten times fast). One little boy came up to me and said, “Hey, Jim Gill! I’ve got a new one — “toy soaps.” Kids just love playing with the rhymes; they’re so excited about it and that’s what happens when they’re actively playing. n Do you have a preferred venue?
JG: There’s a wonderful family literacy festival in Akron, Ohio. I’ve been going to it for the past 16 years now. It’s so sweet — thousands of people who come with their little ones. They sit together on the grass and clap along. It’s a perfect day for me. Read the extended interview online at www.westsuburbanliving.net WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 17
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TO THE
LOOK WESTERN SKY
By Joni Hirsch Blackman
Glass House to Hit the Big Screen Historic Farnsworth residence in Plano to play a starring role in upcoming Hollywood film
P
eople who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones, but those who live near a famous glass house — soon to be the subject of a star-studded Hollywood film — should look into a visit. That means you, west suburbanite. Plano’s Farnsworth House, built in 1950, has been open for tours since 2003. Later this year, Jeff Bridges and Maggie Gyllenhaal will begin filming at what producer Matt Flanders calls “the special chunk of history in your backyard.” The “dramatic, entertaining” story behind the building of Farnsworth House features two unusual people in the 1940s — a world-famous architect and a single woman doctor. “She was as formidable as he was,” says Flanders. “It’s about the complicated relationship between Mies van der Rohe and his client, Dr. Edith Farnsworth,” adds Flanders. “It’s a story of two people and this glass house that’s the perfect metaphor for the transparency that needs to happen between people for a relationship to work.” With much of the film’s action revolving around the building of the house, it becomes “a character in the film,” says Flanders. Farnsworth’s other dramatic story is told in a video at the visitor center — how the National Trust for Historic Preservation, with Landmarks Illinois, bought the property at auction. A lastminute donor supplemented the extraordinary $7 million raised by preservation organizations to secure the purchase. “This unique place right here in Plano was designed by an internationally known architect whose philosophy has been
emulated all around the world,” says Bonnie McDonald, Landmarks Illinois president. “You can see Mies’ influence in so many cities. Farnsworth brings it to an understandable human scale.” Dr. Farnsworth intentionally sought seclusion when buying nine country
Director Richard Press’s initial visit elicited a feeling that stayed with him — he even built a glass home in upstate New York. Farnsworth, a Chicago nephrologist who worked with children with kidney disease, chose the famous architect to design her retreat and was able to collaborate with
“
This set the bar for what a modern home was going to be — open, transparent, secluded and with a truly significant relationship to its landscape.”
acres (later increased to 62) from the McCormick family in the 1940s. “It’s incredibly significant as a work of van der Rohe,” says McDonald. “This set the bar for what a modern house was going to be — open, transparent, secluded and, what sets Farnsworth apart, with a truly significant relationship to its landscape.” The effect the transparent house on stilts has on visitors is dramatic, says Farnsworth House Executive Director, Maurice Parrish. “Many people have an emotional reaction when they experience the house as Mies designed it — along the Fox River. The overall context really does affect people deeply and stays with them.” That’s how the movie originated.
Farnsworth House is a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Photograph by Mike Schwartz.
him to create a significant work. “The house works with its surrounding landscape . . . you see 360 degrees of openness, yet you still feel protected and able to experience nature. Dr. Farnsworth came up here all times of the year, even in the winter — you can experience the snow and the ice on the river but from a protected viewpoint.” Farnsworth sold the house 20 years later, after the state took two acres to build a road nearby. What cost $74,000 in the late 1940s (the estimate had been $40,000) was sold in 1970 for $250,000 and is now used for private events and tours. A visitor center sits a half mile away. Tours proceed from the center along the river until the house “reveals itself slowly — it’s part of the surprise and wonderment of it all,” says Parrish. “Film is now one of the ways Americans discover new things. The film makers have a wonderful knowledge of and deep appreciation for Farnsworth House — we’re confident they’ll do quality work.” Clearly. n
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Local Authors
By Anne Knudsen
Every Last Lie Haunting psychological thriller from Plainfield novelist
C
lara Solberg’s tranquil life in a suburb west of Chicago shatters when her husband and four-yearold daughter are in a car crash, killing Nick while Maisie is remarkably unharmed. The death is ruled an accident ... until Maisie’s nightmares make Clara question what might have happened. Tormented by grief and barely recovered from the birth of her days-old baby son, Clara is plunged into a desperate hunt for the truth. In addition to postnatal anxiety, a profound lack of sleep and the alternating tantrums and night terrors of her young daughter, Clara must also cope with the escalating trauma of her
mother’s dementia. She quickly becomes unhinged, suspecting everyone from a sinister neighbor to Nick’s closest friend of running the car off the road. But why?
The telling of this twisted tale switches back and forth between parallel narratives from Nick in the days before his death and Clara, as she retraces his steps — and uncovers his secrets. In this thrilling summer read, bestselling novelist Mary Kubica masterfully ratchets up the suspense while simultaneously unraveling the psyche of a woman whose peaceful suburban life has spun out of control. The result is a moving account of grief, as Clara escalates from numbing shock through denial and murderous anger. Kubica deftly portrays a woman at breaking point, who struggles with her own shortcomings as a mother and daughter and must now face an irrevocably altered future. Mary Kubica will autograph copies of Every Last Lie at Plainfield Public Library at 7 p.m. on July 17.
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Ann Arbor in the Summer A cool college town — and so much more Photos courtesy of City of Ann Arbor
By Patti F. Smith
I
t has been said that Ann Arbor, Michigan, is “six square miles surrounded by reality.” Whether that is a reference to the almost 45,000 students who are ensconced in the academic “bubble” provided by the University of Michigan, or to the other-worldly charm of one of the best college towns in America, Ann Arbor is a special place. There’s nothing like driving into town on a bright, hot summer day. Or on a brisk, crisp fall afternoon. Or a warm spring morning. Or even a blustery winter night. On any given street, you are likely to hear music from a street musician or a local vendor. People are happy to be here and are pleasantly friendly. It’s the kind of place where you may well make a new
acquaintance while hanging out in a coffee house. But there is something different about summer in this town. From festivals to live music and dancing to patio dining to craft beer sipping, there are all kinds of things to do in Ann Arbor when the weather turns warm. Fun Times, Ann Arbor For indoor and outdoor enthusiasts, Ann Arbor offers a wonderful variety of fun.
July welcomes annual art fairs to the downtown area, which merges seamlessly with the adjacent University of Michigan campus. With four events over four days, Ann Arbor Art Fair (July 20-23) is one of the largest art fairs in the country, drawing upwards of 350,000 attendees. There is something for the sophisticated art collector as well as for those just looking for a yard sculpture or souvenir. If you visit on a Thursday, plan for lunch on Liberty Street with Sonic Lunch — a free, outdoor music concert featuring local and national acts. From the end of June through early July, visitors can enjoy Summer Fest, which includes performances of popular, nationally known acts at the Power Center, plus
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Photos courtesy of visitannarbor.org
free outdoor concerts and movies. For active outdoors enthusiasts, the Huron River offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing throughout summer. The Nichols Arboretum, established in 1907 by the University of Michigan, is best known for its Peony Garden which blooms in late May. The nature lover will find unique trees and shrubs all year round and will soon be delightfully lost among the many paths, trails and river views. A hidden gem is the Wave Field, located on the north campus of the University. This earthen sculpture’s appearance changes based on the time of day and the amount of sunlight that shines upon it. If your preference is to stay downtown, consider taking a self-guided tour of Ann Arbor’s famed fairy doors. This series of small doors and tiny treats (maybe left by the fairies themselves?) magically reveal themselves to visitors throughout the lovely downtown area. On a rainy day, plenty of places offer hours of entertainment, from the Hands-On Museum, where children of all ages can learn about everything from optics to echoes — be sure to run up the musical stairs — to the Kelsey Museum of Architecture, where you can examine amulets, mummy’s coffins and pottery. The artistically inclined may want to make time to visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art, one of the premier museums of its kind in the country. Evening entertainment options are plentiful too. The venerated Ark offers
live music almost every night of the week. The live theater scene is thriving with plays at the Yellow Barn theater, the Civic Theater and the theaters on the Michigan campus. Or catch a movie at the historic
Michigan Theater on Liberty Street. On Wednesday evenings, check out the Ann Arbor Civic Band, which plays outdoors at the bandshell at West Park Sometimes plays are performed there as well. Within Easy Reach Less than 15 minutes drive from Ann Arbor, nearby Ypsilanti makes for a great lunch spot and is also home to several museums. The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, housed in the last Hudson dealership, lets visitors enjoy a collection of vintage cars. At the Michigan Firehouse Museum, visitors can peek into firehouse life as it was in 1900. The Ypsilanti Historical Society is located in a 1860s brick mansion and includes local Native American artifacts and items from long-gone businesses, including the Ypsilanti Underwear Factory. Channel your inner Rosie the Riveter
The Evolution of a Socially Conscious University Community On a cold February day in 1824, John Allen and Elisha Rumsey registered a claim with the federal land office in Detroit — a settlement named “Annarbour.” Whether it was named for the men’s wives (both were named Ann) or not, it certainly offered the notion of a settled and civilized place. Three months later, Allen and Rumsey registered the town’s original plat.
Over the next decade, a town began to emerge around the growing
settlement. But it was the arrival of the University of Michigan, which moved to Ann Arbor from Detroit in 1837, that ultimately put the city on the map and most influenced its future. As the university grew, the city expanded accordingly.
A hotbed of social and political activism in the 1960s and 1970s, Ann Arbor
became known as a socially conscious, world-class university town, a reputation which it continues to build upon today.
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Ann Arbor
and check out the Yankee Air Museum, which focuses on the famed Willow Run B-24 Bomber Plant. At the height of production during World War II, it rolled out a bomber an hour around the clock. Guests can see the historic planes or even schedule a flight in one of the aircraft. Dine Fine From Korean banh mi to artisanal cheeses to Hippie Hash to Eastern European specialties, Ann Arbor boasts a broad selection of restaurants. The toughest choice may be deciding on where to go. For continental fare, locally owned Ayse’s Café offers a variety of Turkish dishes, including Yayla (a yogurt-based soup), Ekmek kadayifi (a bread pudding dessert) and, of course, Turkish coffee. Amadeus offers a “taste of Europe” from soup — Ogorkowa (dill pickle soup) and Barszcz (vegan beet soup) — to beverages (beers and wines from all over Eastern
College football fans — and even non-fans — have likely wondered about the Big House. For several Saturdays in the fall, arena attendance doubles the population in the city of Ann Arbor. Alums come back days in advance to camp, tailgate and root for the home team. While it’s exhilarating to watch the game amidst more than 100,000 cheering fans, the stadium is also thrilling in its noiseless moments. You can share in those tranquil times by taking a mid-summer tour of the stadium. For $15 per person (seven person or $100 minimum), fans can tour the field, the game-day locker room, the club and suite level seating and the press box. Maybe you can’t sack the opposing team’s quarterback, but you can see where all the action takes place on beautiful fall afternoons in Ann Arbor.
Photo courtesy of visitannarbor.org
Getaways
Europe) to French and Austrian desserts. Diners seeking Italian or Mexican fare can check out “sibling” restaurants Mani Osteria & Bar (Italian specialties) and Isalita (Mexican Catina), conveniently located next door to each other. Tomukun offers adjoining restaurants focused on Korean dishes. The Noodle Bar features pho, udon, ramen and buns while the Korean BBQ offers tabletop grilling of classic Korean soul food. For fresh, farm-to-table dining look no further than the Grange Kitchen & Bar. Emphasizing sustainable, local and fresh menu items, the Grange features everything from a fried pig’s head appetizer to duck fat fries to Michigan-farmed shrimp. Spencer’s, which has complete lunch and dinner menus, is popular for its cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as its wine offerings. Those seeking casual eateries may find what they are looking for at the legendary Fleetwood diner. Opened in 1971 (and previously named Dagwood), the diner serves up its famous “hippie hash” 24 hours a day, seven days a week. No dining adventure in Ann Arbor would be complete without a trip to one of the eateries that make up Zingerman’s community of businesses. The original deli, located in a historic building on Detroit Street, offers the best of the best in sandwiches, ranging from pastramis to corned beef to turkey to vegetarian options. (President Obama reportedly
had the classic Reuben sandwich when he was in town). The west side boasts Zingermans’s Roadhouse, a multiple award-winning restaurant focusing on classic American fare with its own drive through service. On the south side of town, visitors can choose from hand-pressed coffee from the Coffee Company, fresh cheese from the Creamery, or pastries from the Bakehouse, all Zingerman properties. In the mid-1990s, two brewpubs opened downtown — Arbor Brewing Company and Grizzly Peak Brewing Company. Both continue to thrive on Washington Street — Grizzly Peak is affiliated with the Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery, also on Washington Street — along with many other additions to the ever-expanding craft beer scene. Jolly Pumpkin Café & Brewery specializes in sour beers, Wolverine State Brewing Company features mostly lagers, while Biercamp and Pointless Brewery & Theater focus on small batches of beer made from unusual ingredients. Glasshouse Brewing and Homes Brewery round out the many choices by offering their own specialties. Nearby Ypsilanti, Dexter, Chelsea and Saline all have at least one brewpub. Coffee on Trend Coffeeshops are prevalent in Ann Arbor. From the locally owned Roos Roast, Mighty Good Coffee, Sweetwaters
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Coffee & Tea, Comet Coffee, Literati Coffee and Café Verde, to small chains like Espresso Royale, to Michigan chain Biggby, caffeine seekers will have no trouble finding a latte, macchiato or plain old dark roast. For those seeking familiar places to enjoy a cup of joe, chains like Starbucks are also omnipresent. A Bookish Habit It has been said that there are more books per capita in Ann Arbor than any other city in Michigan — possibly even the Midwest. Used book lovers can lose themselves for hours in Aunt Agatha’s — specializing, as the name implies, in all things mystery — the West Side Bookshop, Dawn Treader or Motte & Bailey’s. Common Language bookstore is one of the last shops in the country specializing in feminist and LGBT books and is located in the historic Braun Court. The locally owned Bookbound, Literati and Nicola’s Books are also not to be missed. Shop and Browse Ann Arbor Since 1946, Sam’s Clothing has dressed students, townies and visitors alike. If you forget a sweater or need something flannel for a cooler than average day, Sam’s has you covered — literally and figuratively. Visitors can stop by Ragstock for vintage styles in new and used clothing or grab a hat or sunglasses for a sunny day. North Fourth Avenue boasts a variety of clothing stores, including Fourth Avenue Birkenstock, Dear Golden (an upscale consignment shop), and Heavenly Metal (apparel, shoes, jewelry and other gifts). Plenty of vintage and resale shops are located outside the downtown area, including the PTO Thrift Shop, the Salvation Army and the Ann Arbor Thrift Shop. Take a Little Piece of Michigan Home Find fair trade goods at Ten Thousand Villages or the Himalayan Bazaar, both located on Main Street. Browse graphic novels, games and comic-related goods WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 25
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Getaways
Ann Arbor
at the Vault of Midnight. Or walk north a bit to the Kerrytown Shops, which are as varied and unique as the people who shop there. Find herbs, spices and a variety of teas at the Ann Arbor Spice Merchants, or peruse foreign and domestic wine at Everyday Wines. Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars offers tastings of its 30 aged balsamic vinegars and 20 extra virgin olive oils. For the knitter, Spun sells the yarn and tools for any project. If you want a handmade gift that you don’t make yourself, check out 16 Hands for artisanal crafts and artwork. Hollander’s sells beautiful decorative paper, cards and gift wrap that you can use to wrap the vintage gift you can find at Found, a gift shop offering a range of new and vintage items. There are just as many options for the shopper with a chef’s palate — from smoked salmon at Durham’s Tracklements or bi bim bap at Kosmo to Monahan’s
Seafood Market, Sparrow Meats and vegan fare at the Lunch Room. You can find a farmers’ market almost every day of the week in the area. If you are in town on Wednesday or Saturday, check out Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market, located right outside the Kerrytown Shops. On Tuesdays, historic Cobblestone Farm hosts its own market at its east-side location. The Westside Farmers’ Market is open on Thursdays in the parking lot of Zingerman’s Roadhouse. Dixboro, a village located east of town, hosts a weekly market on Fridays, while nearby Pittsfield Village’s market runs on Thursdays. n A longtime resident of Ann Arbor, Patti Smith is the author of two books: Images of America: Downtown Ann Arbor and A History of Ann Arbor’s Food Co-op, as well as the forthcoming Forgotten Ann Arbor, which will be published in 2019. She also writes for The Ann Magazine and the Ann Arbor Observer.
Great Fairs and Festivals Throughout the Year Ann Arbor Summer Festival June 6 - July 4 Multi-stage music event with national and regional performers, including Ira Glass (July 1) and The Capitol Steps (July 4). www.a2sf.com Ann Arbor Art Fair July 20-23 Four major art events over four days: Street Art Fair (street painting, street performers, demos and activities); Summer Art Fair (juried fine art event, with 375 booths, demos and special guests); State Street Art Fair (street painting, street performers and games); and South University Art Fair (displays from local and international artists, mainstage performers, beer & wine gardens). www.visitannarbor.org/artfair/ Color Vibe August 23 A 5K race where runners are doused in colored chalk. Registration required. www.thecolorvibe.com/annarbor/ Kerrytown Concert House Edgefest October 18 - 21
Avant-garde jazz and creative new music festival with nationally known performers. www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com Ann Arbor Folk Festival January 26 - 27, 2018 Two nights celebrating folk, roots and ethnic music. www.theark.org Ann Arbor Film Festival March 20 - 25, 2018 Screenings of 180 new films from 40 countries, plus exhibitions, panels and presentations. www.aafilmfest.org FestiFools and FoolMoon April 2018 (dates to be finalized) Public art spectacular, including giant papier maché puppets. FoolMoon is a nighttime celebration with laser shows, interactive installations, music and dance. www.wonderfulfoolproductions.org Taste of Ann Arbor June 2018 (dates to be finalized) Highlight of Restaurant Week, featuring tastings from 40+ restaurants www.annarborrestaurantweek.com
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OUT&ABOUT |
THEATRE
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COMEDY
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ART
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FAMILY ACTIVITIES
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HOME & GARDEN
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AND MUCH MORE Photo by Nela Koenig
MUSIC
John Fogerty July 14 Rock icon and singer/lead guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival, whose songbook includes “Proud Mary” and “Bad Moon Rising,” performs at Aurora’s RiverEdge Park. Call 630 896-6666
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Calendar of Events
Aug. 3 Shawn Mendes Multi-platinum singer-songwriter headlines his first arena world tour, featuring the album “Illuminate” at Allstate Arena in Rosemont. Call 847 635-6601
Photo courtesy of Allstate Arena
Out&about
6, 7 − 9 p.m. Shakespeare at the Center performs this early Shakespearean comedy which follows the King of Navarre and his three companions as they attempt to swear off women. For tickets, visit www.bataviafineartscentre.org. Batavia Fine Arts Centre Courtyard, 1201 Main St., Batavia. 630 937-8930 | Clue The Musical | Fri − Sun, July 28 − Aug 6, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 6 p.m. Based on the popular game and film, this fast-paced musical brings the world’s bestknown suspects to life and invites the audience to help solve the mystery. Cost: $15/10. Vero Voce Theatre, 951 State Ave., St. Charles. 630 965-0825 | One Woman Sex and The City | Sat, Aug 12, 8 − 10 p.m. Written by Kerry Ipeme and TJ Dawe, this tribute to the hit TV series takes audiences through all six seasons in two hours. Cost: $35/30. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380 | Rock of Ages | Wed − Sun, Aug 24 − Oct 15, Wed − Thur 1:30 & 8 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 5 & 8:30 p.m. and Sun 2 & 6 p.m. Built around classic '80s hits by Bon Jovi, Journey, Styx and others, this Tony-nominated musical follows an aspiring rock star and his sweetheart as they fight to save Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. Cost: $52/47. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111
THEATRE | The Odd Couple | Through July 2, Fri − Sun, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. Neil Simon’s comedy, with a movie by the same name, features mismatched characters — a neat-freak and a slob — who decide to room together, with hilarious results. Cost: $18/15. Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., 8th Floor, Elgin. 847 931-6019 | Theatre Hikes at Morton Arboretum | Sat − Sun, July 8 − Oct 29; No shows Sat − Sun, Sept 2 − 3. Stroll along as actors perform classic and contemporary plays. For exact schedule, visit www.mortonarb.org. Registration required. Cost: $20/15. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 725-2066 | Macbeth | Through July 22, Thur − Sun, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Outdoor production of Shakespeare’s politically charged tragedy of bloated ambition. Cost: $30/10. Oak Park Festival Theatre at Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Ave., Oak Park. 708 445-4440 | The Gin Game | Through Aug 13, 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. Winner of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize, this two-act, two-character play features Chicago theatre legends John Reeger and Paula Scrofano as strangers who strike up an acquaintance over a game of gin rummy. Cost: $62/47. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. 630 530-0111 | A Play + A Pint | Wed, July 5, 7 − 9 p.m. Open reading of “Laughing Wild,” a play by Christopher Durang, which explores two perspectives of life in the chaos of New York City. Cost: $12. Connolly’s Public House, 1109 S Blvd., Oak Park. 708 613-5905 | Pippin | Thur − Sun, July 6 − 16, 7 p.m. Award-winning musical extravaganza, set in a circus-like atmosphere tells of a young prince in search of the meaning of life. Cost: $16/12. McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn 630 942-4000 | Ravenscroft | Fri − Sat, July 7 − Aug 12, 8 p.m. A murder mystery/comedy set in a rambling manor house on a snowy evening. Cost: $17/15. The Riverfront Playhouse, 11 & 13 S Water St. Mall, Aurora. 630 897-9496
| The Amish Project | Sat − Sun, July 8 − 30, 4 p.m. A one-woman show starring Lydia Berger Gray about the 2006 school shootings in a Pennsylvanian Amish community. Cost: $30/15. Oak Park Festival Theatre, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park. 708 445-4440 | As You Like It | Wed − Sun, July 12 − Aug 20, 8:15 p.m. Outdoor performance of this Shakespearian pastoral tells the complicated story of Rosalind, who disguises herself as a boy and tries to reunite with her exiled love, Orlando. Cost: $23. First Folio Theatre at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 986-8067 | Mary Poppins | Thur − Sat, July 14 − Aug 5, Thur −Fri 7:30 p.m. and Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m. Classic family musical featuring the magical nanny whose "Spoonful of Sugar" helps the Banks family learn about love and life. Cost: $20/14. Medinah Baptist Church, 900 Foster Ave., Medinah. 630 634-2100 | Fairways | Fri − Sun, July 21 − 30, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Featuring two original cast members, Joe Billquist and Dana Teichart, this musical is about honesty, love and golf. Cost: $28/23. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521 | The Fair Maid of the West | Thur − Sun, July 27 − Sept 2, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m.; Also Wed, Aug 30, 8 p.m. Swashbuckling Reformation-era comedy by Thomas Heywood, adapted for modern audiences and outdoor performance. Cost: $30/10. Oak Park Festival Theatre at Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Ave., Oak Park. 708 445-4440 | Sweeney Todd | Fri − Sat, July 28 − Aug 5, 7:30 p.m. Schaumburg Summer Theatre performs Stephen Sondheim's macabre Broadway musical about a murderous scheme for revenge. Cost: $20/16. Maggie Atcher Theatre, Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600 | Green Day’s American Idiot | Fri − Sun, July 28 − Aug 6, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Rock out to Tony Award-winning electronic-rock musical. Cost: $20/18. SecondSpace Theatre, Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Love’s Labour’s Lost | Fri − Sun, July 28 − Aug
| Shakespeare in the Park | Fri − Sat, Aug 25 – 26, 7 p.m. Outdoor production of Shakespeare’s comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, performed by Wheaton College alumni, students and professional actors. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. 630 690-4880 | The 39 Steps | Thur − Sun, Sept 7 − Oct 8, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Classic murder-mystery based on Alfred Hitchcock's 1935 thriller. Cost: $37/35. McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000
COMEDY | Mr. Showtime | Wed − Sat,July 5 − 8,Wed − Thur 8 p.m.,Fri 8 & 10:30 p.m. and Sat 7 & 9:30 p.m. Nationally syndicated radio host, featured on HBO and Comedy Central. Cost: $22 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Godfrey | Thur − Sun, July 6 − 9, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Chicago-born comedian who has performed in Los Angeles and New York, in the movie “Zoolander” and on NBC's "30 Rock." Cost: $19 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Damon Williams | Wed − Fri, July 12 − 14, Wed − Thur 8 p.m. and Fri 8 & 10:30 p.m. Former Chicago Subway sandwich shop owner, whose stand-up career began at All Jokes Aside comedy club and now spans tours, TV and film. Cost: $22 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club, MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Andrew Santino | Thur − Sun, July 13 − 16, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Best known for ABC’s comedy “Mixology” and currently starring in Yahoo’s digital series “Sin City Saints,” Santino was one of Comedy Central’s 10 Comics to Watch. Cost: $22 + 2 food/bev min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Tone Bell | Wed − Fri, July 19 − 22, Wed − Thur 8 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:30 p.m. and Sat 7 & 9:30 p.m. Starring in NBC’s new comedy, “Truth Be Told” and appearing on talk shows, Tone is a fixture of the national stand-up scene. Cost:
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OUT&ABOUT
Calendar of Events
Photo courtesy of Wheaton Park District
$22 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Tony Rock | Thur − Sun, July 20 − 23, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 9:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Brooklyn-born comedian and star of “Life Support” with Queen Latifah and “Homie Spumoni” with Whoopi Goldberg. Cost: $22 + 2 item food/bev min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Jim McCue | Thur − Sat, July 27 − 29, Thur 8 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:30 p.m. and Sat 7 & 9:30 p.m. “Boston’s King of Crowd Work,” works off-script with audience participation. Cost: $22 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484 | Mo’nique | Fri − Sat, Aug 4 − 5, Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m. and Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. Academy award-winning actress known for her role in “Precious” and outspoken host of her own latenight talk show on BET. Cost: $44 + 2 item food & bev min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Chingo Bling | Fri − Sun, Aug 18 − 20, Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Rapper, actor, comedian and entrepreneur known for lyrical wordplay, satire and an ability to characterize the stereotypes of MexicanAmerican border culture. Cost: $22 + 2 item food & bev min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Michael Blackson | Fri − Sun, Aug 25 − 27, Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m.“The African King of Comedy,” has entertained audiences around the globe for more than a decade. Cost: $27 + 2 item food/bev min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001
July 20 COSLEY ZOO UNCORKED An evening of wine tastings with hors d’oeuvres, a raffle, and giveaways, surrounded by the animals and atmosphere of Cosley Zoo. Call 630 665-5534
MUSIC | Concerts in Your Park | Through July 30, Sundays, 7 p.m. Free live music series travels to select Naperville parks, featuring a variety of bands from the Chicago area. For complete concert schedule and locations, visit www.napervilleparks.org. Various parks throughout Naperville. 630 848-5000
| Wheaton Municipal Band Concert Series | Through Aug 10, Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Also, Sat, Aug 5, 8 p.m. Full symphonic concert band performs marches, show tunes, overtures and more. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Downtown Wheaton. www.wheatonmunicipalband.org | Uniquely Thursdays | Through Aug 17, Thursdays, 6 − 9 p.m. Musical event featuring local bands, a beer and wine tent and vendors from local businesses.
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Burlington Park, 30 E Chicago Ave., Hinsdale. 630 323-3952 | Music at the Gazebo | Through Aug 17, Thursdays, 7 p.m. Bands and musicians perform late into the evening. Spring Rd. & Vallette St., Elmhurst. www.springroad.com | Millennium Carillon Summer Recital Series | Through Aug 22, Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Carillonneurs from across the country and all over the world perform. Picnicking is encouraged. Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower, along Riverwalk’s Rotary Hill, Naperville. 630 848-5000 | Concerts on the Green | Through Aug 25, Fridays, 7 − 8:30 p.m. Free summer evening concert series of some of the area’s best artists. Burr Ridge Village Center, 701 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge. 630 654-8181 | Country in the Park | Through Aug 29, Tuesdays, 7 − 10 p.m. Concert series featuring Nashville’s most popular emerging country artists, plus food & drinks tents. MB Financial Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008 | Downers Grove Summer Concert Series | Through Aug 29, Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Live performance by Shout Out, Wild Daisy, HiFi Superstar and others. Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. 630 960-7500 | Rockin’ in the Park | Through Aug 31, Thursdays, 7 − 10 p.m. Summer concert series with classic cover bands, food & drinks tents and a musical fireworks show. MB Financial Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008 | Afternoon Concerts | Through Sept 4, Sundays, 3 p.m. No concert on June 18 & Aug 13. Free outdoor concerts featuring a wide variety of music and artists. Cantigny Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Sounds of Summer Concert Series | Through Sept 16, Fri − Sat 7 p.m. Concert series featuring local bands and many genres, including Chi-Town Soul, Rob Post Band, The Messengers and Insession. Eaglewood Resort & Spa, 1401 Nordic Rd., Itasca. 630 773-1400 or www.eaglewoodresort.com | Live on the Lawn | Through Sept 27, Wednesdays, 5:30 − 9 p.m. Live music by various bands including Brock & Abrams “The Band,” formerly of the Buckinghams, and food and drinks on the lawn. St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, 2241 Rt. 59, West Chicago. 630 231-3100 | The Four C Notes | Sun, July 2, 3 p.m. Performing the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, this tribute band is headlined by John Michael Coppola, best known for his performance in Chicago Broadway’s “Jersey Boys.” Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | The Beach Boys & The Temptations | Sun, July 2, 6 p.m. Iconic 1950s-style vocal band teams up with American R&B/Soul group. Cost: $80/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Buddy Guy & Booker T. Jones | Thur, July 6, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Buddy Guy performs a night of hits with special guest Booker T. Jones. Cost: $90/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Sheryl Crow | Fri, July 7, 7:30 p.m. Accompanied by Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Crow performs as part of her “Be Myself” tour. Cost: $115/49. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Dennis DeYoung | Fri, July 7, 8 p.m. Founding member of STYX and the lead singer and songwriter of seven of the band's eight Top Ten hits. Cost: $99/59. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 31
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Calendar of Events
Photo courtesy of Batavia MainStreet
OUT&ABOUT July 22
COCKTAILS IN THE PARK Enjoy an evening on the banks of the Fox River with live music, drinks, small plates and more. Appleton Park, Batavia. Call 630 761-3528
English, Nikki Torres and Rhythm Machine Band, as well as the MAC’s New Philharmonic. Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 or www.atthemac.org | Jazz Up Glen Ellyn | Sat, July 15, 11 a.m. Multiple stages spotlight jazz artists alongside session performances at local stores and restaurants. Downtown Glen Ellyn, www.jazzupglenellyn.org | CABCAB | Saturdays, July 15, Aug 5 & Sept 9. Cover band performs hits from The Beatles, Mumford & Sons, Def Leppard, Lynyrd Skynyrd and others. Cost: $40/16. Arranmore Farm & Polo Club, 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com | Steve Miller Band with Peter Frampton | Thur, July 20, 7:30 p.m. Rock legends The Steve Miller Band with special guest Peter Frampton, perform classic hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Cost: $55. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666
| RiverPark Concert Series | Sundays, July 9 − 23, 6 p.m. Variety of performances on the northwest bank of the Fox River. RiverPark, 201 N River Ln., Geneva. 630 232-7494 | John Fogerty | Fri, July 14, 8 p.m. Rock icon and singer/lead guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival performs “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising” and other classic hits. Cost: $55. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666
| One Republic | Fri − Sat, July 14 − 15, 6:30 p.m. American pop rock band with signature songs “Apologize” and “Counting Stars” collaborates with “The X Factor” winner, James Arthur, and hit alternative band, Fitz & The Tantrums. Cost: $125/49. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Lakeside Pavilion Concert Series | Thur − Fri, July 14 − Aug 11, 7:30 p.m. Outdoor music and entertainment in a lake side setting featuring bands such as American
| Kesha and The Creepies | Fri, July 21, 8 p.m. Pop star with eight consecutive Top 10 hits and #1 singles, this vocalist is best known for songs “TiK ToK” and “Your Love Is My Drug.” Cost: $50. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | YESFest | Fri − Sat, July 21 − 22, noon − 9 p.m. Outdoor jamfest hits 5th year, with local and regional musicians, comics, sketch & improv performers and poets. Patio at Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. www.yesfest.weebly.com | Naper Nights Community Concert Series | Fri − Sat, July 21 − 22 & Aug 18 − 19 5 p.m. Music from various artists
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Out&about
Calendar of Events
including American English, Simply Billy and Synchronicity, plus food, drinks and activities. Free for members and children under 4. Cost: $15/10. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010
| Darius Rucker | Sat, Aug 5, 7:30 p.m. Founding member of Hootie & the Blowfish and winner of 2009 New Artist Award from the Country Music Association. Cost: $130/49. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100
| Blondie and Garbage | Sat, July 22, 6:30 p.m. The "Rage and Rapture” tour stops at Ravinia with veteran rockers Blondie and Garbage to play new music and classic hits. Cost: $90/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100
| Jason Derulo | Fri, Aug 11, 8 p.m. This signature pop, R&B and hip-hop singer-songwriter is best known for “Talk Dirty” and “Want to Want Me.” Cost: $40. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666
| Hotel California | Thur, July 27, 7:30 p.m. Classic rock cover band performs “A Salute to the Eagles.” Cost: $59/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000
| Santana | Fri − Sat, Aug 11 − 12, 7:30 p.m. American Latin rock band that got its start at Woodstock in 1969 plays hits from Santana IV. Cost: $135/49. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100
| WDCD Jazz Series | Thursdays, July 27 and Aug 3 & 10, 7:30 p.m. Free performances by Guy King, New Lionel Hampton Big Band and the Orbert Davis Sextet. Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000
| Gary Lewis & The Playboys and The Grass Roots | Sun, Aug 13, 5 p.m. Pop band icons of the 1960s come together to perform their hits. Cost: $78/46. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000
| Steve Augeri | Fri, July 28, 7 − 10 p.m. American rock vocalist, best known as the lead singer of Journey from 1998 through 2006, showcases songs from his new album, “The Singles,” as well as earlier hits. For more information, visit www.rosemont.com. MB Financial Park, 5501 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 349-5008 | Alabama | Fri, July 28, 8 p.m. Fusing country, rock, bluegrass and pop for more than four decades, this group has had multiple #1 hits, seven multi-platinum albums and two Grammy Awards. Cost: $55. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Barry Manilow | Sat, July 29, 7:30 p.m. Music icon who has exceeded 85 million worldwide record sales plays his greatest hits and new releases. Cost: $250/20. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Gordon Lightfoot | Sun, July 30, 8 p.m. Country/folk rock star best known for “Sundown” brings 50 years of songwriting hits in the new “The Legend Lives On” tour. Cost: $74/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Ted Nugent | Sun − Mon, July 30 − 31, 7:30 p.m. Former lead guitarist of 1960s psychedelic rock band Amboy Dukes, Nugent performs two nights of hits from his rock ‘n’ roll career. Cost: $125/75. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | The Fixx | Thur, Aug 3, 7:30 p.m. New wave, Londonbased rock band with three #1 hits and worldwide record sales in the milllions. Cost: $69/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Shawn Mendes | Thur, Aug 3, 7:30 p.m. Multi-platinum singer/songwriter headlines his first arena world tour, featuring the album “Illuminate.” Cost: $68/30. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Three Dog Night | Fri, Aug 4, 7:30 p.m. Veteran pop-rock band, with a career than spans 2,200 live shows and two Super Bowls, performs hits. Cost: $64/34. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | American English | Fri, Aug 4, 8 p.m. Recreating the Beatles’ iconic sound, this Chicago-based cover band rocks the night away with top hits. Cost: $3. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | New World Men | Fri, Aug 4, 8 p.m. Montreal-based tribute band delivers a multi-media show dedicated to Canada’s progressive rock band, Rush. Cost: $49/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000
| Leslie Odom Jr. | Sun, Aug 13, 8:30 p.m. Tony award winner who originated the role of Aaron Burr in “Hamilton," performs from his self-titled jazz album. Cost: $100/20. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Southern Uprising Tour | Thur, Aug 17, 8 p.m. Southern country-rock favorites Travis Tritt, Montgomery Gentry, The Marshall Tucker Band and The Outlaws perform together for one night. Cost: $55. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Stephen Bishop, Kyle Vincent and Elliot Lurie | Fri, Aug 18, 8 p.m. An all-hits 1970s show with pop stars Stephen Bishop, Kyle Vincent of the Bay City Rollers and Elliot Lurie from The Looking Glass. Cost: $79/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | An Evening with Priscilla Presley | Sun, Aug 20, 3 p.m. Former wife of King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, discusses her life with the legendary star. Cost: $125/59. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Get the Led Out | Fri, Aug 25, 8 p.m. Popular Led Zeppelin cover band replicates classic rock songs with a powerful, authentic sound. Cost: $15. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | John Mellencamp | Sat − Sun, Aug 26 − 27, 7:30 p.m. Heartland rocker best known for and '80s hits “Jack and Diane” and “Hurts So Good." Cost: $150/44. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Olivia Newton-John | Sun, Aug 27, 7 p.m. Star of “Grease” and Grammy Award-winning vocalist with favorites from her top-selling albums. Cost: $89/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet. 815 726-6600 | Aretha Franklin | Sun, Sept 3, 8:30 p.m. Iconic American singer, known for all-time hits “Respect” and “A Natural Woman.” Cost: $110/38. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100 | Stevie Nicks | Sat − Sun, Sept 9 − 10, 7:30 p.m. American rock singer and songwriter best known as the lead singer of Fleetwood Mac and for her charttopping solo career. Cost: $200/70. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park. 847 266-5100
DANCE | Settlers Contra Dance | Sat, July 8, 7 p.m. Celebrate the 19th century arrivals of the Culbertsons and the Garfields to Garfield Farm, with traditional reels and square dances. Reservations required. Cost: $10. Garfield Farm Museum,
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3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | Meraki Dance Co. | Sat − Sun, July 29 − 30, Sat 7 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m. Contemporary company performs ballet, jazz, hip hop and Yoga moves. Cost: $20. Madison Street Theatre, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park. 312 282-1750
ART | ONE | Through July 29, Mon − Thur & Sat, Mon − Thur 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. A survey of contemporary artwork by emerging artists in the region and across the country. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2321 | The Human Touch | Through Aug 27, Tue − Sun, Tue −Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. In 42 paintings, sculptures and other art media, this exhibition celebrates diversity and the spectrum of modern human experience. Cost: $9/8. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Summer Art Series | Through Sept 25, Mon − Sun. View works from seven artists, see the sculptures at Legacy 3D and browse historical collectors cards. Gaylord Building, 200 W 8th St. and Illinois State Museum, 201 W 10th St., Lockport. Art will also be on display from dawn until dusk along the I&M Canal and at Lincoln Landing. 815 838-0549 or www.summerartseries.com | Origami in the Garden | Through Oct 22, Mon − Sun, 9 a.m. − 6 p.m. Large-scale metal sculptures based on the traditional Japanese art of origami, displayed around the grounds. Free with Arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Botanical Arts: Summer Blooms | Wednesdays, July 12 − Aug 16, 7 − 9:30 p.m. Learn how to record observations in a sketchbook and develop a finished piece in graphite or watercolor by focusing on the structure of plants at Mayslake. Registration required. Cost: $130. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Leslie Baum | Tue − Thur & Sat, Aug 24 − Sept 29, Tue − Thur 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. In "Here Comes the Rainbow," the artist presents paintingbased installations in a range of surfaces and media. Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-3206
FAMILY & GENERAL | Children’s Lunch Hour Entertainment | Through July 25, Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m. Pack a lunch and enjoy performances geared to the young and young-at-heart at Naperville parks. Frontier Park, 3415 Book Rd.; Riverwalk Grand Pavilion, 500 Jackson Ave., Naperville. 630 848-5000 | Camp Naper: Summer Day Camp | Through Aug 4. A variety of hands-on day camps that range from cooking and treasure hunts to music lessons and drawing classes. For grades 1 − 8. Registration required. Cost varies per camp. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. 630 420-6010 | Wednesday Morning Movie Series | Through Aug 9, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. A weekly series of PG-rated films including “Kung Fu Panda 3,” “The Secret Life of Pets,” “Trolls” and “Sing,” with games and costumed characters on hand at 9 a.m. before the movie. Cost: $1. Classic Cinema Theatres. www.classiccinemas.com WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 35
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Calendar of Events
Photo courtesy of Chicago Zoological Society.
OUT&ABOUT
Sept. 10 ZOORUNRUN Chip-timed 5K, 5K Fun Walk and 1-Mile Dash for athletes of all ages at Brookfield Zoo. Call 708 688-8000
| Brookfield Zoo: Summer Nights | Through Aug 12, Fri − Sat, 4 − 9 p.m. Outdoor dining, a beer & wine garden, live music, children’s entertainment and a laser light show. Ticket includes admission to zoo plus one attraction. Cost: $16/11 after 4 p.m. East Mall at the Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Family Concert Series | Through Aug 20, Sundays, noon. Interactive performances featuring Laura Doherty and The Heartbeats and Wendy & DB. Cantigny Park,
1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Summer Nights Classic Car Show | Through Aug 25, Fridays, 6 − 9 p.m. Live music accompanies an array of classic cars that line the downtown streets, with pre-1985 models parked on Curtiss St. Along Main St. between Maple and Franklin. Downers Grove. 630 725-0991 | Vintage Rides | Through Aug 25, Fridays, 6 − 9 p.m. With different makes and models of classic cars each
week, this car show offers live music and food from local vendors. 129 W Front St., Wheaton. 630 260-2000 | Movies in the Park | Through Aug 25, Fridays, 8:30 p.m. Bring a picnic and watch movies under the stars, including “La La Land” and “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Barrington Cruise Nights | Through Aug 31, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Weekly car show along with food and ice cream vendors, entertainment and prizes. Harris Bank Parking lot, Cook St. and Station St. Downtown Barrington. 847 304-3479 or www.barrington-il.gov | Model Railroad Garden | Through Oct 29, Mon − Sun, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. A 7,500-sq.-ft model train garden features trains running on 1,600 feet of track over intricate terrain. Cost: $6/4. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. 847 835-5440 | Prairie Walk | Sat, July 1, 9 a.m. A guided tour of the prairie. Reservations required. Cost: $6/3. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | Summer Sizzlin’ Sidewalk Sales | Thur − Sat, July 6 − 8. Enjoy summer savings from participating local shops. Downtown Naperville. www.downtownnaperville.com | Lakeside Pavilion Movie Series | Thursdays, July 6 − 20, 8 p.m. Free weekly showing of movies beginning with “The Wizard of Oz,” then “Back to the Future” and finishing with “Zootopia.” Lakeside Pavilion at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Oak Brook Polo | Sundays, July 9 & 30, Aug 6 & 20
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and Sept 10. Food trucks and on-site restaurants serve gourmet bites during Polo Club tournaments. Cost: $40/10. Prince of Wales Field, 2606 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 368-5095 or www.oakbrookpoloclub.com | Tour of Lake Ellyn Cycling Race | Sat, July 15, 10 a.m. 8:30 p.m. Intelligentsia Cup bicycle race around the lake. 645 Lenox Rd, Glen Ellyn. www.intelligentsiacup.com | Family Night: Touch-A-Truck | Fri, July 21, 5:30 − 7:30 p.m. Bring the family out to enjoy a variety of food truck vendors, get an up-close look at trucks and military tanks, and watch "Monster Trucks." Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Cirque du Soleil | Tue − Sun, July 21 − Sept 3, Tue − Thur 8 p.m., Fri 4:30 & 8 p.m. and Sun 1:30 & 5 p.m.; No show Tue, Aug 8 & 29 and no 4:30 p.m. shows on Fri, July 21 & Aug 18 – 25. Famed troupe captures the “waking dream of Mexico” through an acrobatic ode to the country’s vibrant culture. Cost: $120/25. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 | Arranmore Polo | Sundays, July 23, Aug 13 & 27, 3 p.m. Invitational polo matches at Arranmore Farm & Polo Club. Cost: $40/10. 34 Rance Rd., Oswego. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com | McCormick Day | Thur, July 27, noon − 5 p.m. Celebrate Colonel Robert R. McCormick’s birthday with fun art-themed programs, crafts and activities. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | Riverside Historic Walking Tours | Sun, July 30 & Aug 27, 2 p.m. View the historic, landmark village of Riverside with this walking tour. For more information, visit www.olmstedsociety.org. Riverside Train Station, 90 Bloomingbank Rd., Riverside. 708 442-7675 | Dog Days at Cantigny | Sat, Aug 5, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Dogs' play area, specialty vendors and performances by animals trained to entertain. For more information, visit www.cantigny.org. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-516 | Antique Tool Show & Sale | Sun, Aug 6, 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. The Midwest Tool Collectors Association and the Early American Industries Association display, trade and sell antique and collectible tools. Cost: $6/3. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | Bike Wheaton Festival | Sat, Aug. 12.,10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Fun family festival with a family bike parade, demonstrations of trick cycling, Wheaton Police Department bike rodeo, bike safety lessons, music with a live DJ, a used bike collection, and more. Memorial Park, 208 W Union St., Wheaton. www.downtownwheaton.com | Perseid Meteor Shower Star Party | Sat, Aug 12, 5 p.m. − midnight. Watch out for shooting stars blazing through the sky, build your own rocket, listen to Constellation Storytime and more. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | French Connection Day | Sun, Aug 13, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. Enjoy a day of wine and French food tasting, children’s art projects, street performers and more. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 688-5161
FESTIVALS & FAIRS | Lisle Eyes to the Skies | Through July 2, Wed − Sun, Wed 5 p.m. and Thur − Sun noon. Carnival, parade, fireworks, food, craft fair, live music and more; Also, Fri – Sun,
5:30 a.m. & 6 p.m., a Balloon Launch. Free for children under 7. Cost: $8. Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short St. Lisle. www.eyestotheskies.org | Naperville Ribfest | Through July 3, Fri − Mon, noon − 10 p.m. Rib vendors, music featuring Toby Keith, The B-52s, A Flock of Seagulls, Shinedown and other artists, plus a carnival. Cost: $20/15. Knoch Park, 724 S West St., Naperville. www.ribfest.net | Northwest Fourth-Fest | Through July 4, Fri − Tue. 40 carnival rides, food & drink tent and live music. For schedule, visit www.searscentre.com. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy, Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | Fourth of July Brat Tent Festivities | Through July 4, Fri − Tue. Parade, food, live music, family entertainment and fireworks. Metra Train Station parking lot, 201 Spring St., Barrington. 847 304-3400 | 4th of July Festival | Mon − Tue, July 3 − 4, Mon 5 − 11 p.m. and Tue 8 a.m. − 10 p.m. Parade, 4th Annual Cerny Series Baseball Games, fireworks, food, games, 5K run and live entertainment. Cerny Park, River Rd. & Forestview Ave., Warrenville. 630 393-9427 | 4th of July Celebration | Tue, July 4, 3 p.m. Performances by the American Legion Band and the Fox Valley Orchestra followed by fireworks. RiverEdge Park, 360 N Broadway St., Aurora. 630 896-6666 | Railroad Days | Thur − Fri, July 6 − 9, 4:30 − 11 p.m., Sat noon − midnight and Sun 2 − 10 p.m. Community festival featuring live music, carnival, food court, arts and crafts, beer garden, parade and fireworks. Pioneer Park, 479 W Forest Ave., West Chicago. 630 293-2200 | Geneva Classic Car Show | Thursdays, July 6 − Aug 31, 6 − 8 p.m. View classic, muscle and sports cars, vote on your favorite make and model and enjoy music of the ‘50s. Kane County Courthouse parking lot, 100 S 3rd St., Geneva. 630 232-6083 | Barrington Brew Fest | Sat, July 8, 3 − 7 p.m. Nearly 50 brewers serving 90 brews, plus food vendors and music. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $80/30. Metra Train Station parking lot, 201 Spring St., Barrington. www.barringtonbrewfest.com | Glendale Heights Fest | Wed − Sun, July 12 − 16, Wed − Thur 6 − 11 p.m., Fri 6 p.m. − midnight, Sat 3 p.m. − midnight and Sun 3 − 11 p.m. Carnival, live entertainment, fireworks and food. Camera Park, 101 E Fullerton, Glendale Heights. 630 260-6000 | Liberty Arts Festival | Thur − Sat,July 13 − 15,9 a.m.− 8:30 p.m. Art walk and handmade market, cocktail tasting, concerts, children’s activities and more. Downtown Morris. 815 941-0245 or www.downtownmorris.com | Taste of Westmont | Thur − Sun, July 13 − 16, Thur 5:30 − 9:30 p.m., Fri 3:30 − 10:30 p.m., Sat noon − 10:30 p.m. and Sun 1 − 8 p.m. Live music, carnival, food, beer & margarita tent and craft show. Cass Ave, between Chicago and Burlington Ave., Downtown Westmont. 630 829-9378 | Itasca Fest | Thur − Sun, July 13 − 16, Thur 6 p.m. − 11 p.m. Fri 6 p.m. − midnight, Sat noon − midnight and Sun noon − 11 p.m. Music, flea market, health fair, carnival, sports tournament and car show. Washington Park, 350 E Irving Park Rd., Itasca. 630 773-0835 | Windmill City Festival | Fri − Sun, July 14 − 16, Fri 4 − 11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. − 11 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. Carnival, 5K, pet parade, music, food and more. The Riverwalk, 100 N Island Ave, Batavia. 630 879-5235 or www.windmillcityfest.org WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 37
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Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Chicago Zoological Society
Photos by Graham Webb
OUT&ABOUT
| Naperville Ale Fest | Sat, July 15, 1 − 5 p.m. 200 beers from craft breweries, live music and local vendors. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $99/15. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. www.napervillealefest.com
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| La Grange Craft Fair | Sat − Sun, July 15 − 16, Sat 9 a.m. − 6 p.m and Sun 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. 200 artisans showcase original paintings, yard art, hand-made clothing and more. Downtown La Grange. www.lgba.com | Kane County Fair | Thur − Sun, July 20 − 23, Thur 3 − 11 p.m., Fri −Sat noon − midnight and Sun noon − 10 p.m. Demolition derby, bull riding, carnival, contests and more. Cost: $20/15. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S Randall Rd., St. Charles. 630 584-6926 | Family Fun Fest | Fri, July 21, 6 − 8:30 p.m. Face painting, inflatables and games. Community Park Bandshell, 1825 Short St., Lisle. 630 964-3410 | Geneva Arts Fair | Sat − Sun, July 22 − 23, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Fine arts show, children’s activities, food and more. 100 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-6060
New Arrivals BABY SEALS AT BROOKFIELD ZOO
Employment Opportunities Available
| DuPage County Fair | Wed − Sun, July 26 − 30, 8 a.m. − 11 p.m. Carnival, talent show, demolition derby, livestock auction and beer tent. Cost: $10/4. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-6636
Convenient Hours: Mon 9am-8pm; Tues 9am-9pm; Wed 8am-8pm; Thurs 6am-10pm; Fri & Sat 6am-5pm
| Sugar Grove Corn Boil | Thur − Sun, July 27 − 30. Carnival, live music and food. Volunteer Park, 61 S Main St., Sugar Grove. 630 449-7999
| Wheaton Wine Walk | Thur, Aug 10, 5 − 8:30 p.m. Stroll, shop and enjoy 12 1-oz tastings, plus get a souvenir wine glass. Cost: $35. www.downtownwheaton.com
518 N. Main Street,Glen Ellyn 630.790.8001 • www.lineasalon.com
| Streamwood Summer Celebration | Fri − Sun, July 28 − 30, Fri 5 − 10:30 p.m., Sat 10:30 a.m. − 10:30 p.m. and Sun noon − 7:30 p.m. Golf tournament, business expo, parade, and carnival. Hoosier Grove Park, 700 W Irving Park Rd., Streamwood. 630 736-3803
| Montgomery Fest | Fri – Sun, Aug 11 − 13, Fri 5 − 10 p.m. and Sat – Sun 10 a.m. − 10 p.m. Carnival, parade, craft and business booths, music, petting zoo, car show, fishing derby and food from local vendors. Montgomery Park, River St. and Mill St., Montgomery. 630 896-8080
| Kendall County Fair | Tue − Sun, Aug 1 − 6, Tue 4 – 6 p.m., Wed 2 – 9 p.m., Thur 8 a.m. − evening, Fri 8:30 a.m. − 11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. − 11 p.m. and Sun 9:30 a.m. − 5 p.m. Western Speed Show, livestock show and carnival. Cost: $8/4. Kendall County Fairgrounds, 10826 Illinois Rt. 71, Yorkville. 630 553-2860 | Summer Daze Festival | Fri − Sat, Aug 4 − 5, Fri 12:30 − 11:30 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. − 11:30 p.m. Music festival, family activities, teen arena and rides. Car show at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Downtown Warrenville. 630 393-7279 | North Aurora Days | Fri − Sun. Aug 4 − 6. Car show, fishing derby, pet parade, 5K, music and more. Throughout North Aurora. 630 897-8228 | La Grange Endless Summerfest | Fri − Sun, Aug 4 − 6, Fri 5 − 10:30 p.m., Sat noon − 10:30 p.m. and Sun noon − 10 p.m. Carnival, bands, human foosball and beer & wine garden. Free for children 12 and under. Cost: $3 admission after 5 p.m. on Fri – Sat. Gordon Park, Ogden Ave and Tilden Ave. La Grange. www.lagrangeendlesssummerfest.com | Taste of Roselle | Fri − Sun, Aug 4 − 6, Fri 6 − 11 p.m., Sat noon − 11 p.m. and Sun noon − 8 p.m. Carnival, craft fair, bingo tent, live music and food. Main St. between Roselle Rd. & Park St., Downtown Roselle. 630 980-2000 | Wheaton Brew Fest | Sat, Aug 5, 1 − 4:30 p.m. Craft beers, music and food from local restaurants. Must be 21 and over. Cost: $45/25. Memorial Park, 208 W Union Ave., Wheaton. 630 510-5064 | Comicopolis | Sun, Aug 6, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. 30 vendors display art, comics, prints and figures. White Oak Library, 121 E 8th St., Lockport. www.cityoflockport.net
First birth in 30 years at the zoo. Call 708 688-8000
| Veggie Fest | Sat – Sun, Aug 12 – 13, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Food, live music, children’s activities and speakers focused on vegetarianism. Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 955-1200 | Elburn Days | Fri − Sun, Aug 18 − 20. Parade, tractor pull, mud volleyball, live music, carnival, food and more. Lions Park, 500 S Filmore St., Elburn. 630 365-6315 | Park Palooza | Sat, Aug 19, 5 − 10 p.m. Fifth annual event featuring live entertainment, games, food trucks, and a beer garden. Berens Park, 493 N Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst. 630 993-8900 | Fall Festival of Fine Art | Sat − Sun, Aug 19 − 20, Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m. − 6 p.m. Juried art festival, live music, art demos and educational booth chats. 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 847 926-4300 | Naperville Wine Festival | Fri − Sat, Aug 25 − 26, 5 − 10 p.m. 300 wines, seminars, cooking demos and live music. Cost: $50/15. Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St., Naperville. www.napervillewinefestival.com or 630 420-6010 | Zoobrew | Fri − Sat, Aug 25 − 26, 5 − 9 p.m. Annual tasting event with 80-plus beers. Ticket includes zoo admission. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $55/35. East Mall at Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Hometown Days Festival | Fri − Sun, Sept 1 − 3. Ultimate Air Dog Show, live entertainment, car show, carnival rides and food. Beecher Community Park, 908 Game Farm Rd., Yorkville. 630 553-4357 | Naperville Jaycees Last Fling | Fri − Mon, Sept 1 − 4, Fri 5 – 11 p.m., Sat − Sun 10 a.m. − 11 p.m. and Mon 10 a.m. − 8 p.m. Mainstage entertainment by multiple
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Photo courtesy of Chicago Zoological Society
musical acts, food, drinks, carnival, parade and more. Downtown Naperville. 630 961-4143 | Carol Stream Summer Carnival | Fri − Mon, Sept 1 − 4, Fri 6 − 11 p.m., Sat 1 − 11 p.m., Sun 1 − 10 p.m. and Mon 1 − 8 p.m. Carnival, games and food. Ferraro Town Center, 960 N Gary Ave., Carol Stream. 630 665-7050 | Kline Creek Farm Country Fair | Sat, Sept 2, 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. A tribute to DuPage County’s agricultural past, with horse-drawn wagon rides and live entertainment. 1N600 County Farm Rd., West Chicago, 630 876-5900. | Lemont Heritage Festival | Sat, Sept 2, 3 − 11 p.m. Live music, children’s activities, food and more. Downtown Lemont. 630 243-2700 | Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival | Sat, Sept 3 - 4, 11 a.m. − 10 p.m. 40th annual event, featuring music on eight stages, ghost stories and barn dance. Island Park, 2 IL-25, Geneva, 630 639-9684. | The Sandwich Fair | Wed − Sun, Sept 6 − 10, 9 a.m. − 9 p.m. Harness racing, carnival rides, exhibits and live music. Free for children 5 and under. Cost: $9/5. 1401 Suydam Rd., Sandwich. 815 786-2159
FARMERS MARKETS | Aurora | Through Oct 21, Saturdays, 8 a.m. − noon. Aurora Transportation Center, 233 N. Broadway; Wednesdays, July 12 − Sept 27, noon − 5 p.m. West Aurora Plaza, 1901 W Galena Blvd. 630 256-3370 | Barrington | Through Oct 19, Thursdays, 2 – 7 p.m. Park Ave. and Cook St. 847 304-3400 or www.barringtonfarmersmarket.com | Batavia | Through Oct 28, Saturdays, 8 a.m. − noon. North River St. between Wilson and State St. 630 761-3528 or www.downtownbatavia.com | Bolingbrook | Through Aug 17, Thursdays, 4 − 9 p.m., Aug 24 − Sept 7, 4 − 8 p.m. The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E Boughton Rd. 630 296-8350 or www. shoppingpromenade.com
Burlington Park at 30 E Chicago Ave. 630 323-3952 | Joliet | Through Sept 29, Fridays, 8 a.m. − 2 p.m. Chicago St. between Van Buren St. and W Jefferson St. 630 774-6067 | La Grange | Through Oct 26, Thursdays, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m. In the parking lost just south of La Grange Village Hall, 53 S La Grange Rd. www.villageoflagrange.com | Lemont Artisan Market | Through Sept 26, Tuesdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Lemont Township Community Center, 16300 Alba St. 630 257-5997 | Lisle French Market | Through Oct 29, Sundays, 8 a.m. − 1 p.m. Prairie Lake Pond on Garfield Ave. 630 271-4100 or www.villageoflisle.com | Lockport | Through Aug 28, Mondays, 4 − 8 p.m. In front of Court House in downtown Lockport. www.cityoflockport.net | Morris 3 French Hens Country Market | Saturdays, July 8, Aug 12, Sept 9 & Oct 14, 8 a.m. − 2 p.m. 123 W. Illinois Ave., Morris. www.3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com | Naperville | Through Oct 14, Saturdays, 7 a.m. − noon. Fifth Avenue Station parking lot, 200 E. Fifth Ave. 630 369-5638 | Oak Park | Through Oct 29, Saturdays, 7 a.m.− 1 p.m. Pilgrim Church parking lot, 460 Lake St. 708 358-5780 or www.oak-park.us | Oswego Country Market | Through Sept 24, Sundays, 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. Main St. 630 554-4433 or www.oswegolandparkdistrict.org | Plainfield | Through Sept 30, Saturdays, 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. 15420 S Rt. 59 & Lockport St. 630 608-7344 | Riverside | Through Oct 11, Wednesdays, 2:30 − 7 p.m. Historic Water Tower, 10 Pine Ave. 708 447-2700 | St. Charles | Through Oct 27, Fridays, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m. Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 4th Ave & Main St. 630 988-0705
| Brookfield | Through Oct 14, Saturdays, 8 a.m. − 1 p.m. Brookfield Village Hall parking lot, 8820 Brookfield Ave. 708 268-8080 or www.brookfieldchamber.net
| St. Charles Primrose Farm | Wednesdays & Saturdays until end of season, Wed 3 − 7 p.m. and Sat 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. 5N726 Crane Rd. 630 513-4370 or www.foxtrotorganicfarm.com
| Downers Grove | Through Oct 15, Saturdays, 7 a.m. − 12:30 p.m. Main Street Train Station South parking lot off Burlington Ave. 630 968-8400
| Schaumburg | Through Oct 28, Fridays, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m. Trickster Gallery, 190 S. Roselle Rd. 847 923-3855 or www.ci.schaumburg.il.us
| East Dundee | Through Oct 18, Sundays, 10 a.m. − 2 p.m. The Depot, 319 N River St. 847 426-2822 ext, 6902
| South Barrington | Through Nov 1, Fri − Sun, Fri noon − 7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. − 6 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. The Arboretum of South Barrington. 630 271-4100 or www.shopthearb.com
| Elgin Harvest Market | Through Oct 5, Thursdays, 9 a.m. − 2 p.m. 200 N Grove Ave. 630 488-1456 or www.downtownelgin.com | Elmhurst | Through Oct 25, Wednesdays, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m. York St. and Vallette St. 630 832-4550 | Geneva French Market | Through Nov 12, Sundays, 9 a.m. − 2 p.m. Metra commuter train parking lot between South St and 4th St. 630 232-6060 or www.genevachamber.com | Glen Ellyn French Market | Through Oct 29, Sundays, 9 a.m. − 1:30 p.m. Downtown Glen Ellyn. 630 469-0907 or www.glenellynchamber.com | Hinsdale | Through Oct 9, Mondays, 7 a.m. − 1 p.m.
| Sugar Grove | Through Sept 23, Saturdays, 8 a.m. − noon. Village Hall parking lot, 10 Municipal Dr. 630 466-1014 | Villa Park French Market | Through Oct 29, Sundays, 8 a.m. − 1 p.m. Park Blvd., west of Ardmore Ave. 312 575-0286 | Western Springs French Market | Through Oct 29, Sundays, 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. Hillgrove Ave. between Lawn Ave. & Grand Ave. 708 414-3219 or www.wsprings.com | Wheaton French Market | Through Nov 11, Saturdays, 8 a.m. − 2 p.m. Main St & Liberty Dr. 630 260-2000 or www.wheaton.il.us WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 39
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Calendar of Events
Photo courtesy of Cantigny Park
Out&about
| Winfield | Through Aug 30, Wednesdays, 3 − 7 p.m. Winfield Government Center parking lot, 10645 Randolph St. www.winfieldtwp.com | Yorkville | Through Oct 9, First 7 third Saturdays (except Sept 2), 8 a.m. − noon. Town Square Park, 301 N Bridge St. 630 553-4357 or www.yorkville.il.us
KIDS
| Garfield Farm Camps | Tue − Thur, July 11 − 13 & 18 − 20, 9 a.m. − noon. Learn about 1840s farm life through tours, game and feeding farm animals. For ages 8 – 15. Reservations required. Cost: $75 per week. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485 | The Wizard of Oz | Fri − Sun, July 14 − 23, Fri − Sat 7 p.m. and Sun 6 p.m. A young performers’ production of the classic tale of Dorothy, who is swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. Cost: $15/10. Vero Voce Theatre, 951 State Ave., St. Charles. 630 965-0825
| Jim Gill's Nationwide Campaign for Play | Through Thu, Aug 3. Singer/songwriter entertains children with silly songs. Visit www.jimgill.com for locations and schedule.
| AWEsome Transportation Weekend | Sat − Sun, July 15 − 16. Explore favorite modes of transport by land, water or air, create a parachute and more. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N Washington St., Naperville. 630 637-8000
| Science & You | Through Aug 27, Mon − Sun, Mon − Sat 9:30 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Enter a childsized laboratory to explore how scientists impact health and wellness. Cost: $12/11. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. 847 832-6600
| Mad Scientist Camp | Mon − Fri, July 24 − 28, 9 a.m. − noon and 12:30 p.m. − 3:30 p.m. Camp for 4th-6th graders who love reading, science and experiments. Registration required. Cost: $125/session. Anderson’s Bookfair Company, 520 Exchange Ct., Aurora. 630 820-0044
| Dinos & Dragons | Through Sept 17, Mon − Sun, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Outdoor exhibit of 17 large-scale animatronic dinosaurs, plus learning opportunities with live reptiles and lizards in an interactive environment. Cost: $5/3. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. 708 688-8000 | Super Stolie Guacamole | Sun, July 2, noon. A bilingual musical show featuring stories, dancing and art-making. Bandshell at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 668-5161 | The Camp That Shall Not Be Named | Mon − Fri, July 10 − 14, 9 a.m. − 3 p.m. Camp for 5th-8th graders, with
Aug. 13 French Connection Day Enjoy a day of wine and French food tasting, children’s art projects, street performers and more at Cantigny Park. Call 630 688-5161
a sorting hat ceremony, potions class and other Potterinspired activities. Registration required. Cost: $250/ session. Anderson’s Bookfair Company, 520 Exchange Ct., Aurora. www.andersonsbookshop.com
| Once Upon a Mattress | Fri − Sat, July 28 − Aug 5, 7:30 − 10 p.m. Musical that takes a twist on the traditional fairy tale, The Princess and the Pea. Cost: $18/12. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469
HISTORY | By All Accounts: The Story of Elmhurst | Ongoing, Tue − Sun 1 − 5 p.m. and Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. An innovative, interactive exhibit that shows how Elmhurst has changed and grown over the past 165 years. Elmhurst History
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Museum, 120 E Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1457 | Daniel Mitsui: A Modern Medievalist | Through July 30, Mon − Sat, Mon − Fri 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. Religious artist Mitsui presents manuscript illumination prints. Komechak Art Gallery at Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 829-6320 | Inside & Out: Geneva's Faces, Places & Spaces | Through Nov 4, Tue − Sat 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. An exhibition highlighting the people who designed, constructed and lived in Geneva's historic homes and buildings. Free for members. Cost: $3/2. Geneva History Museum, 113 S Third St., Geneva. 630 232-4951 | Establishing Our Roots | Fri, July 14, 10 a.m. View historic photos and research from the conservation movement, including local advocacy for forest preserves in Illinois state parks and the 1915 creation of the Forest Preserve District. For ages 12 and over. Registration required. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Between Two Comets: The Life of Mark Twain | Tue, July 25, 7 p.m. View Terry Lynch’s portrayal of Mark Twain and learn of his writings and his struggles to support a family and gain acceptance by society. Cost: $10/5. Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867 | The Eastland Disaster | Tue, Aug 29, 7 p.m. Susan Decker and Barbara Decker Machholz tell the story of their grandmother and show video interviews of other survivors of the 1915 Chicago River tragedy. Cost: $10/5. Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N Main St., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-1867 | Civil War Encampment | Sat − Sun, Sept 2 − 3, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. Experience this annual tradition where members of the 10th Illinois Regiment and their families depict what life was like on a Union military camp in the 1860s. Graue Mill, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 655-2090
HOME & GARDEN | Butterflies & Blooms | Through Sept 4, Mon − Sun, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Exhibition with more than 500 butterflies including species native to South America, Asia, North America, Africa and Illinois. Cost: $6/4. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. 847 835-5440 | Invasive Plants in the Midwest Landscape | Mon − Sat, July 26 − Sept 15, Mon − Fri 9 a.m. − 3 p.m. and Sat 9 a.m. − 1 p.m. Traveling exhibit by the Chicago-area Reed-Turner Botanical Artists, with works in watercolor, gouache, pencil and pen-and-ink to raise awareness of common plants that threaten local habitats. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Aquascape Construction Water & Garden Showcase | Sat, Aug 19, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m. Tour residential properties and view the gardens and water features while enjoying food and beverages. Various locations in Barrington. www.aquascapeconstruction.com | Heirloom Garden Show | Sun, Aug 27, 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. Admire and purchase rare and specialty fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs sold by Midwestern growers. Cost: $6/3. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., Campton Hills. 630 584-8485
FOOD & DRINK | Wednesdays, Woods & Wine | Through Aug 30, Wednesdays, 5 − 8 p.m. Outdoor music with tastings of special drinks and wines. For ages 21 and over. WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 41
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Calendar of Events
SOMETHING ROTTEN
Photo by Jeremy Daniel
Out&about
Cost: $15/10. Arbor Court at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Craft Beer Tasting | Fri, July 7, 6:30 − 9:30 p.m. Enjoy 50+ different craft beers and ciders from 15 breweries. For ages 21 and over. Cost: $50. Graue Mill Museum, 3800 York Rd., Oak Brook. 630 655-2090 | Cosley Zoo Uncorked | Thur, July 20, 5:30 − 8 p.m. Wine tastings with hors d’oeuvres, a raffle and giveaways, plus the animals and atmosphere of the zoo. Cost: $40. Cosley Zoo, 1356 N Gary Ave., Wheaton. 630 665-5534 | Cocktails in the Park | Sat, July 22, 7 p.m. Music, wine and small plates on the banks of the Fox River. Cost: $30/25. Appleton Park, 100 N Island Ave., Batavia. 630 761-3528
Wor th Going Downtown For Taste of Chicago Wed - Sun, July 5 - 9. Outdoor food festival showcasing the diversity of Chicago's dining options. Free entry. Grant Park on Lakeshore Drive. www.cityofchicago.org Michelle Branch Thur, July 6, 6:30 p.m. A stop on the national “The Hopeless Romantic Tour” with Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter. For ages 17 and over. Cost: $30. Music Hall at House of Blues, 329 N Dearborn St., Chicago. 312 923-2000 Something Rotten Tue – Sun, July 11 – 23. In this 10-time Tony Award-nominated musical comedy, two brothers try to out-write Shakespeare and end up with the world’s first musical. Showtimes and tickets: www.broadwayinchicago.com. Cost: $87/24. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000 Queen + Adam Lambert Thur, July 13, 8 p.m. British rock band and American vocalist collaborate as part of a sold out tour of North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Cost: $185/50. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 Jimmy Buffett Sat, July 15, 7 p.m. American singer-songwriter brings his trademark "islandescapism" to summer in Chicago. Cost: $136/95. Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St., Chicago. James Taylor & Bonnie Raitt Mon, July 17, 7 p.m. Two Grammy Award-winning artists pair up to delve into genres from rock & roll to the blues. Cost: $131/60. Wrigley Field, 1060
W Addison St., Chicago. An American in Paris Tue – Sun, July 25 – Aug 13. Revival of classic Broadway dance musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable city, all yearning for a new beginning. Showtimes: www.broadwayinchicago.com. Cost: $95/24. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000 Lollapalooza Thur - Sun, Aug 3 - 6. Contemporary music fest with eight stages featuring 170+ bands from around the world. Ticket pricing varies. Grant Park, Lake Shore Drive. www.lollapalooza.com Mary J. Blige Sun, July 30, 8 p.m. Nine-time Grammy Award winner and Golden Globe Award nominee performs in the “Strength of a Woman” tour. Cost: $176/61. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 Billy Joel Fri, Aug 11, 8 p.m. Legendary piano man and best-selling recording artist returns to Chicago's storied ballpark as its all-time highest ticket sales performer. Cost: $130/50. Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St., Chicago. Idina Menzel Sat, Aug 12, 8 p.m. Broadway idol and Tony Award winner performs songs from her latest album and her musical theatre favorites. Cost: $130/40. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 Bruno Mars Wed & Fri – Sat, Aug 16 – 19, 8 p.m. Grammy Awardwinning, multi-platinum singer, songwriter and instrumentalist, brings the “24K Magic World
Tour” to Chicago. Tickets: www.unitedcenter.com. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 Coldplay Thur, Aug 17, 7 p.m. A night of rocking out under the stars with iconic British rock band, closing out the “Head Full of Dreams Tour.” Tickets: www.soldierfield.net. Soldier Field, 1410 S Museum Campus Dr., Chicago. 312 235-7000 Chicago Air & Water Show Sat - Sun, Aug 19 - 20, 10 p.m. -3 p.m. Featuring U.S. Navy Blue Angels and U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and boats and planes of all types. Along North Avenue Beach. www.cityofchicago.org Green Day Thur, Aug 24, 7 p.m. American punk rock band best known for “American Idiot” album performs as part of the “Revolution Radio” summer tour. Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St., Chicago. Lady Gaga Fri, Aug 25, 7 p.m. American pop icon and performance artist brings new songs and popular hits. Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St., Chicago. Lionel Richie + Mariah Carey Sat, Aug 26, 7 p.m. Grammy Award winners pair up for "All The Hits" tour. Cost: $500/40. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500 Chicago Jazz Fest Thur - Sun, Aug 31 - Sept 3. Showcase of jazz talent from Chicago and beyond. Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park. Free. www.cityofchicago.org
SPORTS | Kane County Cougars | Mon & Wed − Sun, July 1 − Sept 4; Also, Tue, Aug 1 & 22. Kane County’s Midwest minor league baseball team plays regional opponents. For full schedule, visit www.milb.com. Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva. 630 232-8811 | Chicago Bandits | July 1 – Aug 13. Professional women’s softball team defends its championship title against US and Canadian opponents.For exact schedule visit www.chicagobandits.com. Cost: $19/8. The Ballpark, 27 Jennie Finch Way, Rosemont. 877 722-6348 | Vintage Base Ball Game | Sun, July 9, 11 a.m. − 3 p.m.; Also, Sun, Aug 20, 1 p.m. Eight-team tournament following the rules used in 1858. Parade Field at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. 630 260-8162 | Chicago Sky | Sat, July 8 & Aug 5, 7 p.m.; Wed, July 12, 11:30 a.m.; Fri, July 28 & Aug 18, 7:30 p.m.; Sun, July 30 & Aug 20, 5 p.m.; and, Thu Aug 10, 7 p.m.; Also, Wed, Aug 30, 7 p.m. and Sun, Sept 3, 3 p.m. Professional women’s basketball team plays WNBA teams. Cost: $120/16. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | 49th Annual 16" Softball No Glove Nationals | Thur July 27 through Sunday July 30. One of the top 16" softball tournaments in the Chicago area with food, beer and access to the Chicago 16" Softball Hall of Fame. Sponsored by the Park District of Forest Park. 7501 W Harrison St, Forest Park. For more information, go to www.pdofp.org or www.16inchsoftballhof.com
LITERATURE | Kathy Reichs | Wed, July 12, 7 p.m. Author of 18 New York Times best sellers brings her stand-alone thriller, Two Nights. Cost: $30. Koten Chapel, 329 E School St., Naperville. www.andersonsbookshop.com | Greg Borzo | Sun, July 16, 2 − 4 p.m. Award-winning journalist and the author of The Chicago 'L'' Chicago Cable Cars. Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore, 7419 Madison St., Forest Park. 708 771-7243 | Mary Kubica | Mon, July 17, 7 p.m. Bestselling author and Plainfield resident signs Every Last Lie. Plailnfield Public Library, 15025 S Illinois St., Plainfield. 815 436-6639 Information is as accurate as possible, but times and dates do sometimes change and events are occasionally canceled. Please call to verify all critical information. To have an event included in this guide, send information two to three months in advance to: Out & About, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or wsl@westsuburbanliving.net.
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Ice Cream o d A A bou h c u t M
Nothing says summer like an ice cold scoop of happiness By Jay Copp
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s we celebrate our nation’s founding, even the sunniest optimist has to concede we are a divided nation. We are red or blue, not red, white and blue. So let’s focus on something we can all agree on, a national treasure of summertime — great ice cream. A bowl or cone of delicious ice cream is the perfect antidote to disharmony and unhappiness. As Tim Paul, a manager of the Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor in Forest Park, says, “No one is ever angry in an ice cream shop. Or if you come in angry, you won’t be angry for long.” We’re lucky. This is the golden age of ice cream. Just as we have craft beer, artisan pizzas and independent coffee shops, premium ice cream shops abound. Back in the day, we were thrilled to have 31 flavors at our disposal. But today the wild, bold flavors at shops make those offerings seem so tame and quaint. Ice cream today has real fruit and authentic taste. And a premium ice cream shop is a short drive or even just a long walk away for virtually all west suburbanites.
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Photo courtesy of Graham’s
Three photos to immediate left courtesy of Kilwins
Tasty Treat, Westmont Customers have a hard time deciding what they like best about Tasty Treat — the size of the scoops, the price or the quality? So, in between scoops, they rave about all three. “The quality is excellent. It’s a lot to eat. For $2? Anywhere else, you’d be paying $5,” says Bill Davie of Westmont as he enjoys his Prairie Berry, a mix of blueberry, strawberry and raspberry. He likes his ice cream so much he can’t resist joking, “And it’s completely healthy. No calories.” Tasty Treat has been packing them in for nearly 20 years. The mom-and-pop shop, short on fancy décor but long on down-home atmosphere, serves Wilmettebased Homer’s, a premium ice cream. “Nothing artificial. No fructose,” says Tina Kasson, the folksy Tasty Treat owner with pride. So you can taste the bananas and macadamia nuts in the Banana Mac. The cappuccino ice cream is, well, coffee died and gone to heaven. The Rum Raisin is addictive. “People go crazy over it,” says Kasson. Kasson turned her tavern into an ice
cream shop in 1999 and ever since has relied on word-of-mouth (or taste-of-mouth?) to build her ice cream empire on Cass Avenue. “I never had to do a day of advertising. The high-school kids come and they tell all their friends,” she says. Kasson and her staff treat everyone the same — royally. “So many places look at you as just another customer. They don’t recognize you as a person. When you come in here, we say hello,” she says. Unlike other ice cream shop owners, Kasson has a ready answer when asked how she resists indulging in her product all day: “I ran a tavern, right?” Tasty Treat is located at 19 S. Cass Ave. in Westmont. (630 968-8387).
Tates, La Grange From the vintage photos and knickknacks on the wall to the oversize red lawn chair outside (“I don’t have a sign, so I use the chair to get attention,” says high-energy owner Maria Marciniec), Tates abounds in character and old-fashioned charm and tastes. “We are an old-fashioned parlor. So we carry fudge ripple and butter pecan,
flavors like that.” A large sign in the store rightly proclaims: “There’s Nothing Modern About Us.” But charm can fade. Taste is what counts. And Tates’ premium ice cream has been a longtime favorite of La Grange folks. Marciniec makes the ice cream in the back — 24 batches a day. For each batch, it takes her 20 minutes to mix the flavors in by hand. Chocolate lovers opt for the rich peanut butter chocolate or the triple chocolate. The fruit-inclined order the to-die-for Bordeaux Cherry. Other favorites are ice cream sodas and milk shakes. Remember the scene in the movie “The Founder” where McDonald’s tycoon Ray Kroc cuts costs by eliminating the milk from his milk shakes? That kind of cutting-corners thinking is heresy here. Marciniec knows the simple secret to a great milk shake: “more ice cream.” The customer is king at Tates. Patrons can write a desired flavor on the white board. For sale today is Blueberry Sea Swirl, a concoction suggested by a 4-year-old enchanted by the flavor he saw in a story book.
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True, a whole gallon of premium ice cream can be bought at less cost at a grocery store. So why go out? “It’s a family experience,” says Marciniec, who bought the business in 2010. “You always see someone you know here. It’s a gathering place.” Tates is a cherry on top of normal life. “You win the baseball game. You come to Tates. You lose the baseball game. You come to Tates. You skin your knee. You come to Tates. Ice cream makes you happy,” she says. It also makes you carefree as a child. At Tates, adults often bypass a regular table and instead squeeze their frames into the one tiny table, and families play the 4-Way Countdown game on the tables while relishing their ice cream. Tates is located at 25 S. Ashland Ave. in La Grange (708 352-4848).
Batavia Creamery, Batavia Ice cream-wise, Kirk Janson, 47, was once a wayward youth. And then a wayward adult. As a 9-year-old, he scooped ice cream — 31 flavors — in his parents’ ice cream chain store. Then for 15 years he
scooped 31 flavors in his chain ice cream shop in Naperville. But he realized the selection was limited, and the quality, though good, was not great, at least in his educated estimation. So in 2006 he opened the Creamery in Batavia. It’s ice cream heaven. The variety and quality are off the charts, customers agree. The Creamery offers 44 flavors and rotates in another 150 or so. Janson is like a mad ice cream scientist. Every week he trots out a few new flavors. Some have taken root and have become seasonal. The Firecracker in early July is berry ice cream with pop rocks. Pumpkin Pie arrives in October and Eggnog shows up in December. Otherwise, you can count on favorite flavors fiendishly blended in surprising but delicious ways. Tennessee Toffee combines whiskey caramel sauce and toffee bits. Scouts Honor (the names are consistently inventive) swirls together mint, fudge and cookies. Monkeying Around blends chocolate chip and banana. Batavia Creamery is located at 4 N. Island Ave. in Batavia (630 482-3729).
Oberweis, multiple locations A chain has to hurdle a higher bar to make this list. We want to alert our readers to hidden gems, to tell them about places they may not be aware of. But it would be criminal not to include Oberweis. Its ice cream is super premium — a startling 18 percent butterfat. Premium ice cream has a low overrun of air, giving it a dense texture and a higher fat content. A 14 percent butterfat ratio qualifies as premium. Oberweis ice cream is so rich that a plain vanilla or chocolate cone is a decadent experience. But don’t cheat yourself — go one step beyond decadence and enjoy Chocolate Peanut Butter, Black Berry or Butter Brickle, made with pieces of toffee candy. (Find west suburban locations at www.oberweis.com). Photo courtesy of Kilwins
Photo courtesy of Batavia Creamery
Much Ado About Ice Cream
Kilwins, Geneva, Elmhurst, St. Charles, Wheaton Kilwins was born in Petoskey, MI in the 1940s and its ice cream is so good, so reminiscent of a lazy, sun-soaked vacation day, that it seems to transport you to a simpler time and place. Yet the ice cream is contemporary, not skimping on originality or inventiveness. You won’t regret getting the New Orleans Praline Pecan, the All-American Two Berry Pie or the Traverse City Cherry.
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Photo courtesy of Kilwins
Photo courtesy of Brown Cow
Kilwins is located at 407 S. Third St. in Geneva (630 232-7122); 148 N. York St. in Elmhurst (630 903-6056); 100 N. Hale St. in Wheaton, (630 668-2353) and 132 S. 1st St. in St. Charles (630 549-7943).
Kimmer’s Ice Cream, St. Charles and Wheaton The slogan on the pink wall says it all: “Homemade with Love.” Since opening in St. Charles seven years ago and in Wheaton two years ago, Kimmer’s has become a cult favorite. The ice cream is so authentic, well, that it does not seem real. Consider its strawberry ice cream. It has no dye. “People look at it and say it’s so white it looks like vanilla. But it has real strawberries. When they taste it, it’s like ‘Wow,’” says Isaac Yates, who owns the shops with his wife, Kimmer Elam. Both are in their 20s. Normally, someone who names an ice cream shop after herself would be guilty of chutzpah. But in Elam’s case it’s perfectly reasonable. From an early age, her destiny was ice cream. She worked at a BaskinRobbins and then at a Cold Stone Creamery while studying at the University of Iowa, where she drew up business plans for ice cream shops before attending Ice Cream University in New Jersey. She and Yates were married last year. Kimmer’s ice cream is made in the back of the shop — nice and slow. “Commercial places do it fast and whip more air into their ice cream. It comes out light and flaky. Ours is dense and creamy,” says Yates. The milk, sugar and cream that go into the ice cream are local — from Wisconsin. The shop’s brownies and cookies come from the Moveable Feast in Geneva, and its espresso is from Arcedium Coffee in St. Charles. The shops carry 32 flavors — 17 regular and 15 in rotation. The top seller is the
scrumptious Caramel Sea Salt. Another favorite is Aztec Hot Chocolate, flavored with chili powder, cayenne pepper and cinnamon. It’s a two-for-one taste bud experience — the familiar taste of premium chocolate gives way to a satisfying hot-chocolate aftertaste. The White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie is way, way better than it sounds. Or try the Parent Trap, a mix of vanilla, peanut butter ribbon and Oreos. Kimmer’s waffle cones also are homemade. Its signature cone is the trademarked Sparkle Cone, dipped in white chocolate and sprinkled with “disco dust” (edible glitter). The shop holds birthday parties for children, who can propose their own creation. A sixth-grader suggested one of the flavors now sold to the general public — the Sweet 6-3, a blend of caramel, chocolatecovered pretzels and chocolate chips. Kimmer’s is located at 1 W. Illinois St. in St. Charles (630 762-9480) and 109 E. Front St. in Wheaton (630 765-7704).
Brown Cow, Forest Park
This old-fashioned ice cream parlor is — old. The space held burlesque shows in the 1890s before turning into a movie theater in 1910. You can still see the outline of the projector booth high on a wall. Connie and Matt Brown opened the parlor in 2004, and its appeal — both the ambiance and the ice cream — is timeless. For the uninitiated, “Brown Cow” is a play on words. A brown cow is a root beer float, and the shop’s delicious namesake float is made with homemade root beer. The sundaes here also are superb. The Turtle Temptation is top-notch. But the main draw is the ice cream. The shop carries 28 flavors — homemade, ultra-premium ice cream. “It’s extremely creamy and extremely delicious,” says Sue Hoyer, a teacher in adjacent Oak Park, as she savors a scoop of peanut butter chocolate. Near the entrance, even before you get to the ice cream barrels, is a triple-decker glass display case graced with a wonderful assortment of ice cream sandwiches, ice cream pies and ice cream cakes. Absolutely divert your eyes unless you plan to drive home with a treat for later. Just for fun, bring a gaggle of friends and order the mammoth 21-scoop Trough for $49.99. The parlor sponsors a Trough contest in July. A crew of guys once finished it off in three minutes, seven seconds. The parlor also has a small bakery, with mini-apple pies from an old family recipe. Brown Cow may sell ice cream but its real draw is deeper and grander. Its allure is suggested by the shop’s subdued, brownish light, similar to a tinted old-time photo. “We’re typical Americana,” says Paul, a manager and 11-year employee. Brown Cow is located at 7347 Madison St. in Forest Park (708 366-7970).
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Photo courtesy of Graham’s
Much Ado About Ice Cream
Every Day’s a Sundae,
The new owner of Every Day’s is Jonathan Kaufman, and he’s no fool. The super-popular Sherman specialties are still here, such as Mackinac Island Fudge, Marion County, Moose Tracks and Blue Moon. Kaufman is no rookie when it comes to local retailing — he owns Wells Street Popcorn a block away and in Oak Park. He carries 42 ice cream flavors. He knows the best way to win over customers — let them sample and then sample some more. “Try this and try that. It’s all good,” he says. Every Day’s a Sundae is located 990 Warren Ave. in Downers Grove (630 810-9155).
Graham’s, Geneva The chocolates here are so popular that the ice cream tends to get overlooked. That’s a colossal culinary mistake. Here’s an idea — order a Dark Chocolate Bitter Chip and enjoy it on the attractive
screened porch or outdoor patio and take the box of chocolates to go. Graham’s is located at 302 S. 3rd St. in Geneva (630 232-6655). Photo courtesy of Petersen’s Ice Cream
Photo courtesy of Every Day’s a Sundae
Downers Grove Vacationers in South Haven, MI know to stop at Sherman’s for its flavorful, high-quality ice cream. Downers Grove residents know they can walk, bike or drive to their own downtown to savor Sherman’s. The Urban family ran a blueberry farm in South Haven and provided the essential ingredient for Sherman’s blueberry ice cream before opening the Downers Grove ice cream store in 1992.
Colonial Café, Naperville, St. Charles, four other locations Everything but the kitchen sink? You can get the Kitchen Sink, too, when you come to Colonial Café, a full-service restaurant. The Sink consists of two bananas, two scoops each of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, chocolate, strawberry and pineapple sauces, gads of whipped cream and topped with almonds and the requisite cherry. It’s not meant for a single person — not that people of a certain age don’t try. “Teenagers take it as a challenge,” says Manager Pedro Huesca. Why the name? That’s obvious when it arrives: the dish looks like a kitchen sink. “People ask to buy it. But it’s not for sale,” says Huesca. He’s partial to the peanut butter fudge dish, a decadent indulgence topped with a Reese’s. Also memorable is the Turtle Sundae, served in a 1950s-era tall, thick glass. By the time you’re halfway finished, you’ll be so groggy with sugar you’ll swear your dining partners are beginning to resemble Richie, Potsie and Ralph Malph. Colonial Café is located at 1101 S. Washington St. in Naperville (630 420-7722); and 1625 E. Main St. (630 584-4647) and 522 Randall Rd. in St. Charles (630 443-8338).
Petersen’s Ice Cream, Oak Park Begun in 1919, venerable Petersen’s was once a destination ice cream shop, one of the very few places with premium ice cream. Old-timers grouse that it’s not what it was. But it remains a popular old-fashioned parlor with above-average ice cream and an authentic old-time aura no other shop can possibly match. Petersen’s is located at 1100 Chicago Ave. in Oak Park (708 386-6131). Photo
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Photo courtesy of Frost Gelato
More Summer Treats Gina’s Italian Ice, Berwyn It’s a ramshackle storefront, not the kind of place that would catch your eye and cause you to pull over. But Italian ice aficionados know that Gina’s in Berwyn rivals Mario’s in Little Italy or any other Italian ice shop. Since 1977, Gina has stuck with her original recipes, handmade with fresh fruits bought locally. A small cup of lemon or lime or one of the other 10 flavors is a lot more Italian ice than you think, but treat yourself and order a large anyway.
Gina’s is located at 6737 Roosevelt
Rd. in Berwyn (708 484-0944).
Photo courtesy of Brain Freeze
Andy’s Frozen Custard,
Frost Gelato, Naperville When in Naperville, do as those in Naperville do — die and go to heaven by enjoying the pistachio gelato here. Or the sea salt caramel gelato. Or one of about 20 other tantalizing flavors at this international chain. Except for the milk and sugar, the ingredients are from Italy. Travelers who come back from Rome often do not rave first about the pasta or Vatican or Colosseum but the gelato. Save a few bucks and travel to Naperville for authentic gelato. Frost Gelato is located at 50 S. Main St. in Naperville (630 210-8457).
La Michoacana, Aurora, Downers Grove, Naperville, elsewhere Think outside the cone at this shop. La Michoacana carries dozens of Mexican ice cream treats including paletas (fresh fruit ices). The almond tequila ice cream is also wonderful, as are the Helado de Fresa con Crema (strawberries and cream ice cream) and the Helado de Pinon (pine nut ice cream). Visit once and you’ll most likely make a return visit. La Michoacana is located 6313 Woodward Ave. in Downers Grove and 592 S. Rt. 59 in Naperville.
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Countryside, Bolingbrook, Naperville
The kitschy large cone out front says
it all — old-fashioned custard. It’s thick and rich and a plain white cone is incredibly satisfying. Or opt for the Mint Oreo concrete, bursting with flavor.
Andy’s is located at 260 S. Weber
Rd. in Bolingbrook (630 378-9590);
Brain Freeze, Elmhurst Ice cream shops that stick around need to entice — there has to be flavors you can’t get in the grocery freezer or at a humdrum ice cream shop. This cute shop near the train tracks in downtown Elmhurst is known for its Red Bull Brain Freeze, an Italian ice energized with Red Bull. It’s a winner. “It’s kind of a slusher,” explains Kristen Hoel. She and her husband bought the business in 2011. Also recommended is the Pirate’s Booty, caramel ice cream packed with M&M’s and Oreos; and the irresistible Tennessee Toffee, toffee ice cream strewn with toffee pieces and a caramel whiskey ribbon. Scrawled on the chalkboard outside the store is a slogan that succinctly sums up the allure of ice cream — “You Can’t Buy Happiness But You Can Buy Ice Cream.” Brain Freeze is located at 110 W. Park Ave. in Elmhurst (630 478-3909). n
3104 Anna Marie Ln. in Naperville (331 444-7001); and 5745 S. La Grange Rd. in Countryside (708 579-0015).
Dairy Queen, Villa Park
Most DQs seem retro without even
trying. But the one in Villa Park has a special vibe. From the two walk-up windows, close to traffic on St. Charles Road, to the two red tables behind the squat, red-roofed shop, this DQ is like a time machine to a simpler era. The ice cream is a blast from the past, too — cones for only $1.69, hot fudge sundaes, peanut butter parfaits, banana splits and triple chocolate brownies. Indulge in the 1,500-calorie Royal Blizzard Reese’s for a reasonable $5.29. Take home a box of Dilly Bars for $6.39.
Dairy Queen is located at 211 E. St.
Charles Rd. in Villa Park (630 832-2010).
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A Pre-Flight
Back-to-School Checklist 3 Buckle up and go!
Ta ke
3 Eat a healthy breakfast
Fly
t! h g Ri
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C le ar t h e Ru nway
3 Get a good night’s sleep!
3 Set up a homework HQ 3 Plan a weekday routine
3 Supplies, backpack, sports stuff
p rU Gea
3 Haircut, first-day outfit
3 Get your gadgets — phone,
calculator, iPad, combo lock
3 Dental/orthodontics
Pr e- 3 Sports physical Fli gh 3 Booster shots t 3 Eye test F li gh t Pl 3 Pick classes, confirm schedule an
3 Choose clubs & extracurriculars
3 Fill out school paperwork
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Hinsdale township high school central
Naperville Central High School
Guide to
Public High Schools in the Western Suburbs
St. Charles east High school
York community High School
Wheaton Warrenville South High School
Neuqua Valley High School
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has made it fairly easy to access hat Hinsdale Central High a snapshot of area schools that, School is consistently at while still using quantitative data, the top of most evaluative provides a fuller picture of the rankings of west suburban public high school experience. Mere clicks high schools comes as no surprise away at www.illinoisreportcard.com, to residents of this affluent western there is a wealth of school-specific suburb. Known throughout the CHANGES IN TESTING AHEAD information on academic area for excellence in sports and Standardized testing in Illinois is in a performance, including availability a rich selection of extracurricular state of flux. In 2016, American College of — and success rates in — programs, its students also score Testing’s 15-year contract to provide Advance Placement tests and high in academics, particularly in the statewide college-entrance testing early college coursework. all-important college entrance exam, — the ACT — expired. As of Spring In addition to lists of academic with a sterling ACT average of 27. 2017, schools were directed instead programs offered, the report Graduation rates (95 percent) and to administer the SAT, the Scholastic card lists technical and vocational college enrollment stats (87 percent Acceptance Test designed by education courses. Just as useful, enter college within 18 months The College Board. Some school there is information on athletics, of graduation) are also impressive. districts in the western suburbs voiced extracurricular activities, student So does that mean that students concern that the sudden switch was unfair to college-bound students who clubs, and awards the school are best served at Hinsdale Central were used to — and had prepped has won, not just in sports but and the other chart-topping schools for — the ACT format. Joliet District 204 everything from math and music on page 55? Neuqua Valley is and Riverside-Brookfield District 208, to science and speech. Further, a mere point behind Hinsdale among others, made the decision to each school’s snapshot provides in ACT scores, with the other pay $60 per student to keep the ACT insight into family income levels, Naperville high schools and in place for one more year, delaying student-body diversity and York Community High School the transition until 2018. Both tests cover attendance/dropout rates. All in Elmhurst close at its heels. Even similar ground, but while the ACT has these characteristics are easily schools in the middle of the list, a separate science section, the SAT compared among schools within such as Westmont, Downers Grove integrates sciences throughout. Confusing matters further, 2016 a district or across the state. and Schaumburg, all boast ACT also saw the retiring of the controversial Yet the ability to evaluate scores above the state average of 21 and unpopular PARCC testing program, schools based on academic and graduate more than 90 percent at least for the higher grades. Designed programming, athletics, of their students. to replace the Illinois Prairie State college readiness and vocational The answer is yes . . . and no. Achievement Exam, administered preparation does not lead to There’s no denying that hard in 11th grade, the test was intended conclusions that one school is numbers are helpful when to provide educators with “readiness” “better” than another. The data comparing schools across a region. information they could use to improve in the charts on pages 54-55 After all, those figures — and their schools. Parents and teachers alike makes evident another key factor impact on home values — often protested that PARCC reduced instructional time and added an extra — spending. influence the decision by families burden to over-tested students. A glance A quick scan of those chartto move into towns in the suburbs at the PARCC test results in the chart topping schools, particularly in the first place. But it’s important on page 55 shows how out of synch a comparison of test scores, not to rely on single factors, such its results are among other academic spending-per-student and teacher/ as the results of standardized tests, indicators. Next year, PARCC will be admin salaries, raises a simple to take the full measure of a school replaced by an early SAT option for observation — schools in affluent that is so much more than a number; 11th graders. suburbs clearly do better on it’s a micro-environment for student standardized tests. But why? growth and development as well as achievement. The link between socio-economic status and school Fortunately, the Illinois State Board of Education WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 53
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TEACHER & ADMINISTRATOR SALARIES HIGH SCHOOL
Average Teacher Salary
Teacher Retention
5-Year % Change
Average Administrator Salary
lyons Township (LA Grange)
$102,233
hinsdale central
$101,570 -3.7% 93%
$128,351
hinsdale South (darien)
$101,570 -3.7% 91%
$128,351
Fenton (bensenville)
$101,112 -4.4% 93%
$137,714
oak park River Forest
$99,059 -3.7% 95%
$130,778
Glenbard East (Lombard)
$98,856
3.9%
93%
$115,880
Glenbard North (Carol Stream)
$98,856
3.9%
93%
$115,880
glenbard south (glen Ellyn)
$98,856
3.9%
90%
$115,880
glenbard west (Glen Ellyn)
$98,856
3.9%
95%
$115,880
Addison Trail
$95,642 -1.3% 96%
$122,366
Willowbrook (villa Park)
$95,642 -1.3% 93%
$122,366
Riverside-Brookfield Township
$93,389 -7.5% 95%
$120,372
downers grove North
$89,265
$121,468
Downers Grove South
$89,265 -0.4% 94%
1.7%
-0.4%
95%
96%
$138,828
$121,468
schaumburg $87,018 -12.3% 94%
$127,889
westmont $86,320 -0.5% 92%
$110,649
naperville Central
$78,253 -3.1% 91%
$113,018
naperville North
$78,253 -3.1% 89%
$113,018
lemont $77,526 -13.8% 97%
$116,834
batavia $76,693 -4% 90%
$107,079
Wheaton North
$74,282 -3.7% 92%
$117,442
wheaton warrenville south
$74,282 -3.7% 92%
$117,442
york community (Elmhurst)
$73,508 -3% 85%
$106,002
lockport township
$72,964 -3.3% 92%
$113,329
lisle $71,126 -8.5% 96%
$120,638
geneva Community
$69,902 -6.8% 97%
$109,841
proviso East
$68,316
8%
75%
$102,899
proviso Math & Science Academy (forest PARK)
$68,316
8%
86%
$102,899
proviso west
$68,316
8%
84%
$102,899
community (west Chicago)
$67,268 -6% 95%
$105,836
bartlett $66,561 -8% 85%
$102,466
elgin $66,561 -8% 88%
$102,466
larkin (elgin)
$66,561 -8% 88%
$102,466
south Elgin
$66,561 -8% 89%
$102,466
neuqua Valley (Naperville)
$66,425 -8.2% 93%
$124,835
waubonsie valley (aurora)
$66,425 -8.2% 92%
$124,835
west aurora
$66,229 -14.6% 90%
$87,857
st charles east
$63,500 -9.8% 90%
$106,056
st charles North
$63,500 -9.8% 92%
$106,056
Bolingbrook $59,896 -12.8% 88%
$89,198
east aurora
$94,451
$59,619 5.8% 84%
plainfield $56,862
1.3%
91%
$93,713
plainfield north
$56,862
1.3%
88%
$93,713
plainfield south
$56,862
1.3%
90%
$93,713
yorkville $53,988
5.6%
88%
$99,067
oswego east
$53,198 -12.2% 92%
$81,225
oswego $53,198 -12.2% 91%
$81,225
achievement is far from a new phenomenon. Statistically, children from low-income families do not perform as well academically as their middle-class peers. But, again, why? Educators know that affluent parents often promote education. The reason is fairly obvious — a single parent holding down two jobs may simply not have the time to sit down and help with homework or even make sure it is done. Other parents may not have graduated themselves and are not able to pass on study skill sets or an attitude of academic achievement to their children. So, what are the critical components of a great high school? Certainly, firstrate facilities, plentiful resources, strong administrative and college guidance staff and gifted, well-trained teachers are key, but the value of involved parents who prize education shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s worth remembering, too, that good schools don’t operate in a vacuum: the best of them enjoy the full support of the communities in which they are located. There are some exceptionally strong schools in the western suburbs and, as the numbers here attest, even those at the lower end of the charts compare positively with schools in other parts of the state or in the city of Chicago. Most schools, from community colleges on up to the Ivy League, form their own evaluations of the rigor of individual high schools based on their experiences with its graduates. By tracking students after they enroll, college admissions officers get a sense of how well a particular school prepares applicants to deal with academic workloads and otherwise succeed on campus. So, while test scores and the reputation of a high school are important, they are just two of the many considerations that influence a college decision or — looking beyond that — a successful career outcome. n
Source for both charts: Illinois State Board of Education 2016 School Report Cards
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Area public high school rankings HIGH SCHOOL
Total Enrolment
Low Income
(based on 2016 ACT scores & Graduation Rates)
Student to Spending Teacher Ratio per Student*
Average Class Size
Average ACT Score
PARCC Readiness
Graduation Rate
College Enrolment
hinsdale central
2,834 6% 17:1 18,804 20 27
53% 95% 87%
NEUQUA VALLEY (NAPERVILLE)
3,836 5% 20:1 11,053 29 26
60% 97% 76%
NAPERVILLE NORTH
2,825 15% 18:1 14,545 21
25
67%
98%
81%
NAPERVILLE CENTRAL
2,908 11% 18:1 14,545 23
25
70%
97%
79%
YORK COMMUNITY (ELMHURST)
2,682 14% 19:1 13,744 23
25
45%
94%
81%
740 47% 22:1 15,530 25
24
70% 100%
74%
proviso math & Science Academy (Forest PArk) St Charles North
2,067 6% 17:1 13,258 19 24
48% 99% 86%
GENEVA COMMUNITY
1,969 6% 19:1 14,731 17 24
65% 98% 86%
downers grove north
2,213 11% 18:1 16,871 20
24
42%
95%
83%
glenbard west (glen Ellyn)
2,334 21% 20:1 16,150 21
24
33%
95%
84%
batavia
1,989 17% 19:1 13,435 25
24
26%
94%
83%
WHeATON WARRENVILLE SOUTH
2,071 20% 18:1 12,636 26
24
50%
94%
83%
waubonsie Valley (aurora)
2,675 20% 20:1 11,053 26
24
50%
94%
67%
LYONS TOWNSHIP (LA GRANGE)
4,046 16% 18:1 16,735 21
24
43%
93%
84%
oak park river forest
3,309 20% 16:1 21,819 17
24
34%
93%
72%
ST CHARLES EAST
2,535 17% 17:1 13,258 19
24
43%
93%
86%
lemont TOWNSHIP
1,384 10% 17:1 18,590 23
23
59%
96%
88%
plainfield north
2,309 12% 24:1 9,657 24
23
34%
96%
87%
Glenbard South
1,211 22% 20:1 16,150 18
23
31%
95%
87%
wheaton north
2,131 25% 18:1 12,636 24
23
56%
93%
84%
oswego
2,737 21% 19:1 9,284 23
22
25%
98%
75%
oswego East
2,546 20% 19:1 9,284 21
22
30%
98%
79%
RIVERSIDE -BROOKFIELD TOWNSHIP
1,635 16% 21:1 15,280 24
22
37%
95%
80%
524 28% 14:1 18,848 18
22
46%
94%
79%
HINsDALE SOUTH
1,553 30% 17:1 18,804 21
22
46%
93%
83%
bartlett
2,458 35% 21:1 11,404 21
22
26%
92%
77%
downers grove south
2,743 22% 18:1 16,871 20
22
33%
92%
81%
lockport township east
3,670 22% 21:1 13,066 21
22
44%
90%
77%
schaumburg
2,295 32% 16:1 17,615 21
22
33%
90%
76%
448 32% 15:1 18,354 19
21
29%
94%
76%
glenbard North (carol Stream)
2,276 31% 20:1 16,150 18
21
24%
93%
77%
plainfield South
2,665 26% 24:1 9,657 22
21
30%
93%
81%
south Elgin
2,925 32% 21:1 11,404 21
21
27%
93%
73%
lisle
westmont
willowbrook (VillA PARK)
2,002 44% 20:1 19,707 20
21
35%
86%
72%
yorkville
1,738 18% 17:1 10,742 22
21
31%
86%
68%
plainfield
2,078 29% 24:1 9,657 23
20
26%
92%
76%
glenbard East
2,352 39% 20:1 16,150 21
20
22%
90%
74%
fenton
1,478 49% 17:1 18,689 19
20
29%
85%
68%
Bolingbrook
3,624 57% 21:1 12,669 16
20
25%
84%
68%
Community (West Chicago)
2,012 48% 20:1 14,778 23
19
20%
97%
65%
addison trail
2,073 57% 20:1 19,707 20
19
21%
86%
67%
west aurora
3,884 56% 21:1 11,663 22
19
14%
80%
64%
elgin
2,671 73% 21:1 11,404 20
18
6%
79%
65%
larkin (Elgin)
2,146 73% 21:1 11,404 18
18
12%
76%
66%
Proviso West (hillside)
2,060 42% 22:1 15,530 20
17
5%
78%
56%
East Aurora
3,822 56% 22:1 11,335 21
17
13%
64%
50%
Proviso East (Maywood)
1,814 60% 22:1 15,530 18
16
3%
62%
56%
* Spending averages are measured across districts
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Beyond the Lecture Hall Innovative programs and corporate partnerships provide experiential learning opportunities – and lead to real-world success By Lisa Sloan
Classroom Consultancy In addition to out-of-class experiences, more students are taking part in resume-building work within the classroom. At Aurora University, many faculty teaching upper-level courses insert real-world projects into the curriculum, says Arquette. He points to a recent example in which a professor of public policy selected a group of students in her management class to work with a Tennessee-based military history foundation on developing a strategic plan. “The class functioned as a consulting group. They Skyped in with (foundation board members) every week, and the board members flew up to attend the final class. It was a very applied version of the content of the course.” Other examples at Aurora University include a partnership Career fairs at College of DuPage help place students with jobs. with the American Cancer Society College in Naperville, has also observed that led to marketing students planning and promoting an event, and an IRSan uptick in experiential learning. One supported program that had accounting example is a partnership with the Little students assisting low-income families Friends Center for Autism, located a few and seniors with tax preparation. blocks from campus. Students have had internships with the organization in fields North Central College in Naperville as diverse as psychology, exercise science just finished the first year of Cardinal and human resources. Launch, an offering through the ConVerge business accelerator program. “It’s a “We have deepened our relationships non-traditional approach through which with area companies and organizations in our neighborhood,” she says. “We have an outside company with a short-term a diverse array of partnerships, including need can leverage student talent to not-for-profits, small businesses and complete a project,” says John Joseph, large companies.” an assistant professor of marketing. Photos courtesy of College of DuPage
T
he value of a quality education is clearly evident in the job market, but today’s employers are also seeking to hire graduates who have hands-on experience. Some majors, particularly in the education and medical fields, make practical experience a part of the curriculum, and many fields of study require or encourage students to pursue job-shadowing or internships. However, some local colleges and universities are bringing real-world work experience directly to campus via partnerships with corporations, not-for-profit organizations, entrepreneurs, other colleges and even their own academic departments. Toby Arquette, dean of the Dunham School of Business and Public Policy at Aurora University, sees this type of experience as essential. “It’s absolutely necessary in business and public policy,” he says. “You can’t land a decent entry-level job without high-level practical experience or an internship.” Melissa Mouhelis, assistant director of career enrichment at Benedictine University’s Academic and Career Enrichment Center, agrees. “Companies are looking for graduates who are well-rounded, with skill development and learning that occurs outside the classroom.” Haydee Nunez, director of the office of career development at North Central
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Through Cardinal Launch, Joseph, who end up doing will be something that on-campus programs. has more than three decades of professional Toward that end, Benedictine has is going to stimulate the desire to teach marketing experience, oversees student developed the Institute for Business in the future, whether that’s formal, in the classroom or something else, like teams who work on consulting projects for Analytics and Visualization. “It’s an volunteer work,” she says. “There’s also local firms. This year, for example, a start-up interdisciplinary group of faculty and a lot of teaching that happens in the sought help developing a new business students who, upon project assignments, workplace, such as training people prospect list. Another entrepreneur needed help partner corporations with business and explaining things, so the experience assistance with testing the commercial projects,” explains Cali. comes in very handy no matter what.” viability of a business application. “It’s really Corporations that do not have the a win-win-win,” says Joseph. “For the resources, time or personnel to do a At Elmhurst College, those in the company, it’s an affordable solution that project contact the institute, and a health sciences have work experience built gives access to student talent. It provides statement of work is drawn up, detailing into the curriculum, says Diane Salvador, the student with real-world experience and the specifics. Projects may last a semester executive director of Nursing and Health Sciences. “We have contracts with 50 a differentiator on their resume. The school or more, and students can earn credit clinical agencies, including community wins by providing a service to a local hours for their work. Going beyond the health, schools and hospitals, where business and giving students a high-impact purview institute’s name suggests, projects learning opportunity.” upper-division students can work in specialties from pediatrics to Kelly Cunningham, associate geriatrics, mental health and more. professor of business administration We expose them to in-patient care, and head of the MBA program out-patient care, preventative health at Elmhurst College, has started and tertiary care. They get a taste a similar program there. He has of all the different experiences of used his two decades of marketing being a nurse.” and sales experience to foster collaborations between numerous Erica Ashauer, health professions area businesses and Elmhurst students. advisor in Elmhurst College’s One such project involved a local Weigand Center for Professional preschool that was losing business and Excellence, notes that affiliations Teachers pursuing advanced studies at Aurora University work wanted to turn things around. Under with local hospitals and clinical with 200 third-to-eighth grade students at the on-site STEM program, which partners with four school districts. Cunningham’s supervision, a group practicums not only provide of students conducted focus groups, can encompass digital marketing, essential training but often lead to developed a social media plan and promotions, accounting and finance jobs after graduation. “Professionals in completed a segmentation study for in addition to business analytics. these fields are crucial members of the the school. Another project centered on healthcare team and alums from these helping a local coffee shop build a new Beyond Business programs are often hired by the hospital marketing plan. “I supervise the team, Experiential learning opportunities where they were trained.” and they present to the client,” says are not limited to business majors. At Another real-world experience Cunningham. “More and more faculty Benedictine, for example, students in for science students can be had through are getting involved in these independent the sciences have several opportunities summer research programs. Lee Ann studies. It’s part of our mission in the for hands-on work. Biology professor Smith, head of the research program business college to give students these Allison Wilson says a National Science at Benedictine, says its program serves kinds of opportunities.” Foundation grant, geared toward students in the natural and physical Rick Cali, associate dean in the recruiting students to teach middle-school sciences as well as math and computer College of Business at Benedictine STEM classes, provides for informal science, allowing them to earn a stipend University and program director of teaching opportunities with the while working with a faculty mentor in undergraduate business analytics, says Brookfield Zoo, Cosley Zoo, DuPage a laboratory environment. Smith notes it’s important to “fill the gap between the Forest Preserve District and Morton that some past participants have won Arboretum as well as the university’s competitions for presenting their work classroom and marketplace,” both on-site nature museum. “Whatever they at regional and national conferences. through traditional internships and WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 57
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Smith also sees other benefits to the program. “There’s this perception of science as stodgy, very independent — that you’re off in a lab working by yourself. Through the program, students find out that you can’t work solo and be successful. You need to bounce ideas off others, both inside and outside your field, to rethink data.”
Workshops and Networking Colleges offer students the
opportunity to learn in a workshop setting that includes members of the local business community. These feature presentations and keynote speakers delving into subjects such as lead generation, how to leverage behavioral psychology for market penetration, and other timely topics. At Benedictine, the College of Business and the Alumni Development Office partner to host networking events
Going Back to School? Ask an Admissions Advisor By Erin Chan Ding Congratulations! You’re going back to school. But how do you manage the practical aspects of the transition? Angela Nackovic, adult admissions representative at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, where about 45 percent of the roughly 28,000 students are older than 25 years old, offers these tips: How should someone decide what school to go to after a long break away from academics? When working with students, I ask them to look at how a school will best fit into their lives. Do they need to be close to home or work? Can they take classes in a variety of formats? Will they need childcare to go to school? How will they pay for school? If they are working, is their employer flexible with their schedule to attend school? I can relate to many of the adults I work with, as I worked full time while attending graduate school and asked myself many of these same questions.
If a prospective student is a new, first-time college student seeking a degree, they will likely need to take some placement tests. Some of our health programs call for prerequisite coursework and selective admissions, as well.
What are the main reasons you see people going back to school after a long break? People are coming back to school to upgrade their skills, change careers or keep up with the latest technology. They should consider the cost and the time involved. They can’t plan ahead for everything in life, but knowing these things ahead of time may help people adjust to what comes their way and help them to stay on track.
What other advice, practical or philosophical, do you have for students of all ages considering a return to school? Drawing from my own experience as an adult returning to the classroom and working with prospective adult students for nearly 20 years, I ask students to look at their current and previous work history. What have they excelled at or liked about their current/previous work? Are there skills they could acquire to better assist them on the job or make them more attractive to potential employers? I have had students come to me and say, “Well, I already have my master’s degree.” That’s great, but there is always something to learn that will augment and/or enhance that existing degree.
What kind of documents do returning students need? There’s the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if they need financial assistance. They may need copies of their high school and/or college transcripts.
Are there specific skills or subjects people are drawn to for passion rather than a specific vocation? The culinary arts is an area people are drawn to because they love cooking. If people are not seeking a degree or certificate, then they may decide to audit some classes.
with a roundtable discussion format. “We bring in alumni from different businesses and students can rotate and learn about what they do, learn about their field and make connections,” says Mouhelis. At Aurora University, the Professional Sales Institute and Nonprofit Leadership Institute host events in alternating months. While the events are aimed at local organizations and businesses, students are invited to join in as well. This not only fosters connections between students and professionals but also illustrates the importance of lifelong learning for business success. “The 21st century graduate needs to be prepared for a job that does not exist yet,” says Arquette. “They need to be prepared to re-imagine themselves five to 10 years from now.”
Merit Badges Benedictine’s new Center for Experiential Learning offers students the opportunity to earn badges — recognition that they have completed networking events, educational workshops, software training and other skill-building activities. The badges can be included on resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Such certifications give students a competitive advantage when applying for jobs. “A company will hire someone who understands the software they use or another similar software because they won’t need as much training. They are more likely to learn faster and adapt to the situation more quickly,” explains Cali. Whether it’s through workshops, internships, classroom collaborations or other hands-on efforts, students who engage in experiential learning are positioning themselves for future success. “What we are hearing from employers,” says Nunez, “is that they are looking for graduates that are well rounded, active on campus and have experience, preferably in the field they are going into.” n
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HIGHER EDUCATION GUIDE Argosy University Founded in 1961 1000 N. Plaza Dr., Suite 324, Schaumburg, 847 969-4900, www.argosy.edu Size of Campus: Office building # of Students: 259 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 4 Bachelor’s programs in business, liberal arts, justice and psychology Continuing Education: 2 post-graduate certificate programs Graduate Programs: 9 Master’s degree programs in business, counseling and psychology; Doctoral program (PsyD) in clinical psychology Undergraduate Tuition: $570/credit hour Graduate Tuition: $775/credit hour Other Locations: 27 locations in 13 states, including Chicago campus; online programs Augustana College Founded in 1860 639 38th St., Rock Island, 309 794-7000, www.augustana.edu # of Students: 2,500 Size of Campus: 115 acres Academic Calendar: Three terms Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor’s degree and certificate programs across 90 majors in liberal arts and business; 11 pre-professional programs Undergraduate Tuition: $40,908 full-time; $1,775/ credit part-time Aurora University Founded in 1893 347 S. Gladstone, Aurora, 630 844-5533, www.aurora.edu Size of Campus: 40 acres # of Students: 3,580 undergraduate; 1,843 graduate (all locations) Academic Calendar: Semesters with May and summer sessions Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor’s degrees with 40 majors in liberal arts, education, business, nursing and social work Continuing Education: 7 adult degree completion programs in Illinois and Wisconsin, plus online programs; 400 courses developed through professional partnerships Graduate Programs: 16 Master’s degree programs, doctoral programs in education and social work, and a wide variety of endorsement and certificate programs Undergraduate Tuition: $34,890 full-time Graduate Tuition: $450-$800/semester hour Other Locations: Woodstock and Williams Bay (Wis.); online programs Benedictine University Founded in 1887 5700 College Rd., Lisle, 630 829-6000, www.ben.edu Size of Campus: 108 acres # of Students: 5,893 (all locations) Academic Calendar: Undergraduate on semesters; Graduate on quarters and semesters Undergraduate Programs: 56 majors in business, science, computer science, engineering and liberal arts, including 9 adult-only undergraduate programs Graduate Programs: 16 Master’s programs, 34 certification programs and 4 Doctoral programs in business, nursing, education and public health Undergraduate Tuition: $33,900 full-time Graduate Tuition: $600 – $1,080/credit hour Other Locations: Springfield, Bellwood and Mesa (Ariz.); class sites in China and Vietnam; online programs
Chamberlain College of Nursing Founded in 1889 1221 N Swift Rd., Addison, 630 953-3660, www.chamberlain.edu/addison Size of Campus: Each campus about 39,600 sq. ft # of Students: Approx. 25,000 (nationwide) Academic Calendar: Three terms Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program Continuing Education: RN to BSN option for registered nurses; graduate certificates Graduate Programs: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DPN) and Master of Public Health Undergraduate Tuition: $675/credit hour Graduate Tuition: $650 – $750/credit hour Other Locations: 20 nationwide, including Chicago and Tinley Park; online programs College of DuPage Founded in 1967 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, 630 942-3000, www.cod.edu Size of Campus: 273 acres, 11 major buildings # of Students: Approx. 28,000 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 9 Associate’s degree progams in arts, science and education; Certificate programs in 170 areas of study, including occupational-vocational programs Continuing Education: Non-credit program for youth, adults and older adults Tuition: $135/credit in-district, $322/credit out-of-district, $392/credit out-of-state Other Locations: Addison, Carol Stream, Naperville and Westmont Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864 7400 Augusta St., River Forest, 708 771-8300, www.cuchicago.edu Size of Campus: 40 acres # of Students: 5,603 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 70+ Bachelor’s and Associate’s majors in College of Arts & Science, College of Business and College of Education Continuing Education: Accelerated degree completion and certificate programs Graduate Programs: 40+ Master’s programs in education, human services, technology and business; post-Master’s certificates; Doctoral programs in business administration Undergraduate Tuition: $30,656 Graduate Tuition: Varies by program Other Locations: National and international partnership programs; online programs DeVry University Founded in 1931 3005 Highland Pkwy. Downers Grove; 1221 N. Swift Rd., Addison; 2250 Point Blvd., Elgin; 2056 Westings Ave, Naperville. 630 515-3000, www.devry.edu Size of Campus: Office buildings # of Students: 45,000 + at 55 locations nationwide Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration, Technical Management and Management, with 35 specializations Master’s Degrees: 8 programs in business and management at regional locations and online Undergraduate Tuition: $487 – $609/credit hour Graduate Tuition: $766/credit hour Other Locations: 55 locations nationwide, including Tinley Park; online programs
Dominican University Founded in 1901 7900 W Division St., River Forest, 708 366-2490, www.dom.edu Size of Campus: 30 acres # of Students: 3,522 Undergraduate Degrees: 50+ programs in broad range of liberal arts and sciences, including 7 pre-professional programs Graduate Programs: 25+ in Brennan School of Business, School of Education, Graduate School of Library and Information Science, Graduate School of Social Work and School of Continuing and Professional Studies Undergraduate Tuition: $31,200 full-time Graduate Tuition: $400 – $950/credit hour Elgin Community College Founded in 1949 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin 847 697-1000, www.elgin.edu, Size of campus: 217 acres # of Students: 16,114 credit students Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 140+ Associate’s degrees and certificates in arts, liberal studies, engineering science and science; vocational/ technical programs in business, health professions and other careers Continuing Education: Industry-recognized certification programs partnered with local businesses, including courses in computer applications, health professions and education Tuition: $129/credit in-district, $434.49 out-of-district resident. Senior waivers of in-district tuition available. Other Locations: Burlington, Hanover Park and Streamwood Elmhurst College Founded in 1871 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, 630 617-3500, www.elmhurst.edu Size of Campus: 48 acres # of Students: 3,350 Academic Calendar: Semesters plus January and summer terms Undergraduate Programs: 60+ majors; 15 pre-professional programs; various certificate programs; accelerated undergraduate degree completion programs in Business Administration, Information Technology and Applied Psychology Continuing Education: Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy, a four-year college experience program (non-degree) for adults ages 18-24 with developmental disabilities Graduate Programs: 10 Master’s degrees, 4 online Master’s programs; various certificate programs Undergraduate Tuition: $36,070 full-time, $1,026/ credit hour part-time, $595/credit hour for adult degree-completion; $450 – $595/credit hour for undergraduate certificate Graduate Tuition: $450 – $845/credit hour Continuing Education Tuition: ELSA: $31,826 full-time; $835/credit hour part-time Harper College Founded in 1965 1200 W Algonquin Rd., Palatine, 847 925-6707 www.goforward.harpercollege.edu Size of Campus: 200 acres # of Students: 25,466 Academic Calendar: Semesters plus summer session Undergraduate Programs: 8 Associate’s degrees in arts, science, applied science and engineering; 100+ certificate programs; 40+ vocational programs; 100+ transfer partnerships,
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Continuing Education: Adult degree completion programs partnered with Benedictine University, Northern Illinois University and Eastern Illinois University Undergraduate Tuition: $119/credit hour in state, $451/credit hour out-of-state Illinois Institute of Technology (RICE CAMPUS) Founded in 1940 201 E Loop Rd., Wheaton, 630 682-6000, www.iit.edu Size of Campus: 19 acres # of Students: 400 (approx. 6,100 all campuses) Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 13 majors within Bachelor programs in Information Technology and Management and Industrial Technology and Management Continuing Education: 11 professional certificates in information technology, industrial technology and cyber security; online course Graduate Programs: 2 Master’s programs Undergraduate Tuition: $44,150 full-time Graduate Tuition: $1,470/credit hour (non-business); $1,725/credit hour (business) Other Locations: Chicago (main campus), Bedford Park and online programs. (School was founded as Illinois Tech in Chicago) Joliet Junior College Founded in 1901 1215 Houbolt Rd., Joliet, 815 729-9020 www.jjc.edu Size of Campus: 3,000 sq. ft # of Students: 15,383 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 4 Associate’s degrees in arts, science and special education; certificate programs in agriculture, natural sciences, social sciences and technical/vocational studies Undergraduate Tuition: $125/credit hour, $319/credit hour out of district, $342/credit hour out-of-state Judson University Founded in 1913 1151 N State St., Elgin (moved in 1963) 847 628-2500, www.judsonu.edu Size of Campus: 90 acres # of Students: 1,290 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 7 Bachelor’s degrees with 60 majors in arts, liberal arts, education, science and theology; 10 pre-professional programs; accelerated learning programs Graduate Programs: 7 Master’s degrees in arts, architecture, business, education and ministry; Doctoral degree in education/literacy Undergraduate Tuition: $28,408 full-time; $520/credit hour (Bachelor’s); $430/credit hour (Associate’s) Graduate Tuition: Varies Other Locations: Rockford (School for Business and Professional Studies only); online programs Lewis University Founded in 1932 One University Pkwy., Romeoville 800 897-9000, www.lewisu.edu Size of Campus: 410 acres # of Students: 6,500 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 80+ majors; 11 pre-professional programs Continuing Education: Adult degree-completion programs, plus various adult accelerated programs
Elmhurst College
Graduate Programs: 30+ Undergraduate Tuition: $31,100 full-time Graduate Tuition: $575 – $795/ credit hour Other Locations: Chicago, Oak Brook, Tinley Park, Albuquerque (NM); online programs Midwestern University Founded in 1900 555 31st St., Downers Grove, 630 515-6171, www.midwestern.edu Size of Campus: 105 acres # of Students: 2,954 Undergraduate Majors: None Graduate Programs: 11 in health sciences Colleges: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Chicago College of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine-Illinois, Chicago College of Optometry Tuition: Varies Other Locations: Glendale, AZ National Louis University Founded in 1886 850 Warrenville Rd, Lisle; 620 Tollgate Rd, Elgin. 888 658-8632, www.nl.edu # of Students: 7,857 (all campuses) Undergraduate Programs: 15 Bachelor’s programs within National College of Education and College of Professional Studies and Advancement; 7 online degrees Graduate Programs: 29 Master’s programs, 4 Educational Specialist programs (Ed.S), 6 Doctoral programs, Undergraduate Tuition: $18,000 full-time; $430/ credit hour part-time Graduate Tuition: $685 – $774/credit hour Other Locations: Chicago (main campus), Skokie, Wheeling and Tampa (Fla.); online programs National University of Health Sciences Founded in 1906 200 E Roosevelt Rd., Lombard, 630 629-2000, www.nuhs.edu Size of Campus: 38 acres # of Students: 679 Academic Calendar: Trimesters Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science; Certificate in Massage Therapy Continuing Education: Weekend courses in chiropractic, naturopathic, acupuncture, message therapy and physical therapy Graduate Programs: Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Master of Science in Acupuncture, Master of Science in Oriental Medicine
Photo courtesy of Elmhurst College
HIGHER EDUCATION GUIDE Tuition: Varies Other Locations: Seminole, FL
North Central College Founded in 1861 30 N. Brainard St., Naperville, 630-637-5800, www.northcentralcollege.edu Size of Campus: 68.5 acres # of Students: 3,000 Academic Calendar: Trimesters (10-week terms), plus a summer session and a D-Term (a three-week session in December) Undergraduate Programs: 70 majors in liberal arts, science and business; 11 pre-professional programs Graduate Programs: 9 programs in education, liberal studies and business Undergraduate Tuition: $37,569 full-time Graduate Tuition: $766 – $854/credit hour Northern Illinois University Founded in 1895 1120 E Diehl Rd., Naperville, 630 577-9101, www.niu.edu # of Students: 14,079 undergraduate and 4,936 graduate/law (all locations) Undergraduate Campus: Bachelor of General Studies in Liberal Arts and Sciences; various courses from College of Visual & Performing Arts Graduate Programs: 9 Master’s programs in business and education; 3 Doctoral programs in education Undergraduate Tuition: $9,465 Graduate Tuition: $496/credit hour Other Locations: DeKalb (main campus), Chicago, Hoffman Estates, Rockford and Oregon; online programs Northern Seminary Founded in 1913 660 E Butterfield Rd., Lombard, but moving to Lisle in fall, 630 620-2180, www.seminary.edu Size of Campus: 28 acres # of Students: 300 – 350 Graduate Programs: Master’s programs in Urban Leadership, Divinity, Christian Ministry, Theology and Mission, Worship, and New Testament; Doctor of Ministry with cohorts in Missional Leadership Continuing Education: Graduate Certificate and Ministry Certificate in five areas of study; New Kind of Teacher Certificate Graduate Tuition: $420 – $514/credit hour Other Locations: Chicago and Lawndale Robert Morris University Founded in 1913 905 Meridian Lake Dr., Aurora; 1717 N Randall Rd., Elgin; 1000 E Woodfield Rd., Schaumburg 800 762-5960, www.robertmorris.edu Academic Calendar: 10-week quarters Undergraduate Programs: Associate’s and Bachelors degrees in 20 fields of study at Chicago campus; business administration and management programs at suburban locations Continuing Education: Yes Graduate Programs: Masters in Business Administration, Information Systems, Management, and Science (Human Performance) Undergraduate Tuition: $35,600 full time Graduate Tuition: $712/credit hour Other Locations: Chicago (main campus), Arlington Heights, Lake County, Orland Park, Peoria, Springfield
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Roosevelt University Founded in 1945 1400 N Roosevelt Rd., Schaumburg, 847 619-7300 www.roosevelt.edu Size of Campus: 27 acres (in Schaumburg) # of Students: 5,352 Academic Calendar: Semesters; summer session Undergraduate Programs: 17 majors in College of Arts & Sciences, College of Pharmacy, College of Education and College of Business Continued Education: 7 adult degree-completion programs Graduate Programs: 10 Masters programs is business, science and pharmacy; a post-baccalaureate certificate in paralegal studies; and a Doctoral program in pharmacy Other Locations: Chicago (main campus) Undergraduate Tuition: $28,963/academic year, $781/credit hour Graduate Tuition: $835 – $1,073/credit hour Other Locations: Chicago (main campus); online programs TRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Founded in 1959 6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights, 800 874-6463 www.trnty.edu # of Students: 1406 Undergraduate Programs: 70+ programs of study in liberal arts, education, business and theology; 8 pre-professional programs Continuing Education: 5 accelerated adult degree completion programs Graduate Programs: Masters degrees in Special Education and Counseling Psychology (LBS) Undergraduate Tuition: $27,675 full-time Graduate Tuition: Varies
Triton College Founded in 1964 2000 5th Ave, River Grove, 708 456-0300, www.triton.edu Size of Campus: 100 acres # of Students: Approx.12,000 Academic Calendar: Semesters Pre-Associate/Associate’s Degrees: More than 120 Continuing Education: More than 30 subject areas, more than 100 certificate programs and adult education courses Tuition (Fall 2016): $113/credit in-district; $296 out-of-district University of St. Francis Founded in 1920 500 Wilcox St., Joliet, 800 735-7500, www.stfrancis.edu Size of Campus: 34 acres # of Students: 3,902 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 49 majors; 41 minors in liberal arts, sciences, law, nursing and theology Continuing Education: Degree-completion programs in business, healthcare and nursing Graduate Programs: 19 Master’s programs in nursing, education, business and social work; 2 Doctoral programs in nursing and education Undergraduate Tuition: $30,840 full-time Graduate Tuition: $599 – $798/credit hour Other Locations: Albuquerque, NM; online programs Waubonsee Community College Founded in 1966 Rt. 47 at Waubonsee Dr., Sugar Grove (main
campus); 18 S River St. and 2060 Ogden Ave., Aurora. 630 466-7900, www.waubonsee.edu Size of Campus: 243 acres # of Students: Approx. 14,850 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: Associates degrees and transfer track credits in 100+ courses in business and career technologies, humanities, health professions, sciences and social sciences Continuing Education: Non-credit courses in Community Education and Workforce Development departments Tuition: $126/credit hour in-state, $330/credit hour out-of-state Other Locations: Plano; online programs Wheaton College Founded in 1860 501 College Ave., Wheaton, 630 752-5000, www.wheaton.edu Size of Campus: 80 acres # of Students: Approx. 2,850 Academic Calendar: Semesters Undergraduate Programs: 36 Bachelors degrees in arts, sciences and theology; 8 certificate programs including pre-law Continuing Education: Certificate in TESOL Graduate Programs: 13 Master’s programs in theology, psychology, counseling, intercultural studies, teaching and TESOL; Doctoral programs in Biblical and Theological Studies and Psychology Undergraduate Tuition: $34,050 full-time Graduate Tuition: $620 – $825/credit hour for Master’s; $1,040/credit hour for PsyD in Clinical Psychology
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Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
Photo courtesy of King’s Landscaping Co.
Landscape designers and outdoor furniture specialists offer hot trends for the gourmet in the garden. By Sara Pearsaul Vice
The Inside-Out Kitchen F
or the longest time, cooking out meant building a wood campfire or firing up the charcoal grill for hot dogs and s’mores. Now, outdoor cooking has become a gourmet event and just about any feature or function of an indoor kitchen can be installed outdoors. Landscape designers are creating backyard entertainment centers to rival those of resorts, while do-it-yourselfers can find high-tech grills, pizza oven kits, appliances and all the accessories needed for entertaining outside in haute cuisine style.
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Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet Photo courtesy of Grant & Power Landscaping
door Gourmet
Trends in Outdoor Kitchen Design When it comes to landscape design, outdoor kitchens are in high demand. “The trend is to become a full-service outdoor living space,” says Gene Grant, owner of Grant and Power Landscaping in West Chicago, of the landscape projects his company designs. “It used to be that everyone wanted an L-shaped kitchen and bar,” says his colleague Brian O’Malley, senior landscape designer. “Now we separate the two and extend it out, with countertop or bar-top table areas and kitchen islands that you can put chairs around.” He also notes that people are no longer relying on a rectangular table for dining, but prefer to have spaces for couches and lounge chairs. “A lot of eating is done at a coffee table or bar,” O’Malley explains. The business is seeing increased demand for weatherproof refrigerators, coolers and even sinks, which must be plumbed back into the house for the water supply. Virtually all outdoor kitchens include electric and gas lines with shut-offs, so home chefs can use small appliances like blenders with ease. (Margaritas, anyone?) According to Mark Speers, landscape architect for King’s Landscaping in Lemont, good outdoor kitchen design has a “balance between the number of appliances you have, the space you have to work with and the countertop surface needed. You don’t want to pack too many appliances into a small space.” For starters, he says, “The must-haves are the grill as #1 and storage as #2,” in the form of pull-out or access drawers to hold utensils, spices, kitchen linens, and other cooking needs. If space is an issue, Speers suggests scaling back on the size of the appliances or consolidating by using cabinets with multiple functions, such as a combination trash bin and storage unit. Like other elements in landscape design, outdoor kitchens are customizable. “They can be as simple or as elaborate as homeowners want,”
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Photos courtesy of King’s Landscaping Co.
The Inside-Out Kitchen
says Speers. He recommends including lighting in the outdoor kitchen to extend hours of use. To make outdoor kitchens feel more like indoor rooms, landscape designers incorporate pergolas and other overhead structures that provide a sense of enclosure, as well as plantings that surround the space, acting as low walls. “We use different size plantings, a mix of taller and shorter plants, to give it a more intimate feeling,” says O’Malley. He suggests planting a vegetable garden near an indoor or outdoor kitchen for ready access while cooking. Large flowerbeds are better placed farther away to avoid attracting bees to the party. Furniture and Accessories Designed for the Weather Although some landscape designers offer outdoor furniture, they say that most homeowners prefer to pick out their own dining and patio furniture at local retail stores. Family-owned Wannemaker’s Home and Garden in Downers Grove carries outdoor furniture in cast aluminum, wrought iron, wicker, teak and composite material made to look like lumber. “The most popular trend is composite furniture from Berlin Gardens,” says Joe Wannemaker. The composite material is
made from recycled bottles in Aurora, which is then shipped to Berlin, Ohio, where it is assembled by the Amish community. “It comes in fun colors, it’s heavy and it doesn’t blow over,” says Wannemaker. “It’s an investment but it lasts forever.” For homeowners picking out dining furniture, he advises bringing in the dimensions of the seating area to ensure that you get the sizing right before placing a special order. At Wannemaker’s, customers will find several furniture collections set up on the floor, ready for them to try out the seats or take measurements. Wannemaker’s and stores like The Great Escape and Crate & Barrel offer both outdoor furniture and a wide range of weatherproof accessories, such as unbreakable dishware and wine glasses, placemats and colorful cushions. As for decorating, Wannemaker recommends getting a small flowerpot for the table and hanging baskets of flowers to tie in with the color scheme. The Latest in Grills and Pizza Ovens If you haven’t shopped for grills or pizza ovens recently, you haven’t seen how the latest technology has boosted the function of what Carmen Parisi, president of Chicago Brick Oven, calls “the oldest form of cooking in the world.”
His company’s wood-fired pizza ovens come in various sizes and configurations, including a pre-assembled countertop model, ovens made to fit custom brick installations, a hybrid that can burn both gas and wood, and a relatively new tailgater set-up that sports fans and traveling chefs can take on the road. The pizza ovens reach temperatures above 1,000 degrees and can cook pizzas at 750 degrees in just a couple of minutes. “We call this the karaoke of cooking,” Parisi says of pizza parties, where toppings are set out to meet a variety of food preferences. “It entices guests to participate by making their own pizzas.” The local hero of grills, Weber-Stephens, headquartered in Palatine, introduced a fancy gizmo this year called the iGrill 3, a Bluetooth-enabled thermometer device that delivers alerts to your smartphone so you’ll know when that steak is done to perfection. The iGrill3 works with Weber’s Genesis II grill line and also has a mobile app that sends alarms and offers instructions on grilling along with recipes. Best known for its charcoal grills, Weber now offers hybrid gas/charcoal models and even electric grills that can be used indoors and out. Wannemaker notes that Weber grills are his best-selling line but they are getting competition from the Traeger wood cooker that burns wood pellets, with high-tech features like an auger-fed burner, electronic ignition and digital thermostat control. “You don’t have to flip anything,” he explains of the Texasstyle cooker popularized in barbecue competitions. “You can do a quick burn or seven to eight hours as a slow cooker.” Check It Out If you want to see high-end outdoor kitchen appliances at work, visit Pirch in Oakbrook Center. King’s Landscaping sets up several outdoor kitchen layouts in the store, and you’ll find big names in outdoor appliances such as Viking, Wolf, Sub-Zero, DCS and Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet.
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Chicago-headquartered Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet also has its own showroom in the West Loop, which you can visit by appointment to try out its sleek, heavy-duty appliances. Designed for the outdoors, the company’s cabinetry features hidden rain gutters to keep out the elements. Chicago Brick Oven opens the doors of its Melrose Park manufacturing facility by appointment to view its ovens, which are sold directly to consumers, through distributors Belgard and Unilock, and by landscape architects as part of an overall landscape design and installation. If you’d like to see how outdoor kitchen structures such as pizza ovens can be built from concrete block, take in the Unilock Idea Center in Aurora. When it comes to outdoor kitchens, inspiration and innovation are right in your own backyard. n
Prep time: 15 minutes Grilling time: 6 to 8 minutes Serves 6
the pesto with salt and pepper and set aside.
Pesto • 11/2 cups loosely packed baby arugula • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped toasted walnuts • 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest • 1 garlic clove • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 6 New York strip steaks, each 8 to 10 ounces and about 1 inch thick, trimmed of excess fat • Extra-virgin olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2. Lightly brush the steaks on both sides with oil and then season on both sides with salt and pepper. Let the steaks stand at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before grilling.
1. In a food processor, combine the arugula, basil, walnuts, lemon zest, and garlic and pulse until coarsely chopped. With the machine running, gradually add the oil and process until well blended. Season
Photo courtesy of Weber-Stephen Products LLC
New York Strip Steaks with Basil-Arugula Pesto by Weber
3. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over high heat (450° to 550°F). 4. Brush the cooking grates clean. Grill the steaks over direct high heat, with the lid closed, until cooked to your desired doneness, 6 to 8 minutes for medium rare, turning once. Remove the steaks from the grill and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes. 5. Top each steak with a generous dollop of the pesto and serve warm. Recipe from Weber’s Greatest HitsTM written by Jamie Purviance.
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Photo courtesy of City of Geneva Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Geneva
Old world charm meets chic city vibe – and a river runs through it By Lynn Petrak
I
Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce
n a town as pretty as a picture postcard, it’s the smiles and laughter you notice first. It’s no stretch to say that people in Geneva always seem to be having a good time, whether they’re walking along the Third Street shopping corridor, sitting in groups at alfresco dining tables along State Street, kayaking on the Fox River, picnicking at Island Park, or cheering from the bleachers at a Kane County Cougars game. Scenically located by the riverside, Geneva seems to be a hub of happiness, a fact that isn’t lost on those who live in or visit this suburb of nearly 22,000 residents, just over 40 miles west of Chicago, which also serves as the county seat for Kane County. “One of the most enjoyable things is to spend a weekend here as a tourist — leave the car at home and walk or bike downtown,” says longtime Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns. “When you walk the streets you’ve called home for a half a century, as I have, you discover new experiences.” Indeed, Geneva’s many amenities and distinctive attractions have long made it a popular daytrip or weekend destination. “Since the day I moved here in 1974 to today,” says Burns “what still strikes me as impressive and authentic is that
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Photo courtesy of City of Geneva Photo courtesy of City of Geneva
Photo courtesy of Geneva Park District Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Geneva continues to beckon those near and far to experience the entire community, whether it’s our neighborhoods, our natural settings, or our dining, shopping and entertainment opportunities.”
A Charming Yet Energized Downtown District Happy faces mill the streets in Geneva’s historic downtown, including the bustling Rt. 38/State Street and the quaint and quieter Third Street. On any given day this area is busy, but summer really brings out the crowds. (It helps that there is ample downtown parking.) The downtown has benefited from a new vitality in recent years, according to Sherie McGowan, owner of Cocoon, a two-level shop on Third Street specializing in distinctive home décor and gifts (see Shops & Stops on page 14). “I feel we’ve gotten more vibrant lately, with all of the new restaurants and the types of shops that are coming in. It’s a little hipper, and it’s so fun,” says McGowan, adding that there are a lot of young people with families moving into Geneva and they are discovering downtown. That spirit is underscored by Jean Gaines, executive director of the Geneva
Photo courtesy of Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce. “We are healthy and vibrant. These days, you need to provide an experience for people, and I think that is what Geneva does well,” she explains. Enhancing the sense of fun and exploration, the Chamber of Commerce and city leaders have worked to make the downtown area as user-friendly as possible. Back in 2000, they created the Pedal Geneva project, aimed at encouraging people to bike around town. This year, Pedal Geneva is back, with 40 painted and decorated bicycles scattered through the downtown district. “They are beautiful art pieces that give a bit of whimsy when you come to town,” Gaines says. As they walk — or bike, push a stroller, roller blade or, for that matter, drive — up and down the streets of downtown Geneva, people pass all kinds of businesses, from iconic stores to hip new spots, and from high-end to homespun. According to the Chamber of Commerce, there are more than 100 specialty shops, most of them independently owned and operated, many by Geneva residents. Third Street retail icons include The Little Traveler, based in a historic
home that’s been converted into 36 “rooms” and an in-house café; Cocoon, which has been in town for 21 years; Circa, offering a fun mix of antiques and collectibles; Artemisia, featuring art and interior decor; and the Berry House, which houses several smaller merchants that sell everything from antiques and artwork to religious items. State Street is home to many longtime merchants as well, including State Street Jewelers, the Strawflower Shop, Proud Fox Gallery and Scentimental Gardens. Nearby thoroughfares feature additional distinctive retailers like 610 Home and bb interiors, both known for their furniture and home décor; and Gallery 28, which features a mix of fine and functional art. In addition to venerable businesses that are attractions in their own right, Geneva has drawn a number of newer retailers to town in recent years, such as Jori & June, Flair on Third, and Haven Interiors, which just opened last month. There are a plethora of restaurants in downtown Geneva as well, from hometown pubs to upscale, five-star restaurants, with a wide range of dining and take-out spots in between. During the summer, many restaurants on Third Street set up outdoor tables, which add to the
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Geneva
Statistical Snapshot Population g 2 015 pop est: 21,806 g I ncrease from 2000: 11% gM edian age: 44 g 1 9 and under: 28% g 2 0-24: 5% g 2 5-34: 9% g 3 5-44: 13% g 4 5-54: 18% g 55-64: 15% g 6 5 and over: 12% gM ale: 50.2% g F emale: 49.8% gW hite: 94% gA frican-American: 1% gA sian: 2% gH ispanic: 5%
Income gM edian household income: $97,459
Photo by Ed Ahern
lively vibe of this area of town. Diners have their choice of inventive cuisine at places like All Chocolate Kitchen’s Primo (see review on page 78), Fiora’s, Bien Trucha, Niche and Atwater’s, located inside the historic Herrington Inn & Spa. Other popular restaurants include Patten House, Chianti, Stockholm’s, Nobel House, Little Owl and the newer Gia Mia, Barrel + Rye and The Burger Local. Breakfast and lunch are big here, too, at places like Nosh, Deane’s Market and Deli, Egg Harbor, A Moveable Feast and Buttermilk. Those with a hankering for sweets can certainly find something that hits the spot in downtown Geneva. Indeed, even desserts are elevated here, thanks to gourmet places like All Chocolate Kitchen, Graham’s Fine Chocolates and Ice Cream, The Latest Crave and The Sugar Path. With its Metra link to Chicago, “Geneva is really a working downtown, with a drugstore and library,” says Gaines. The imposing Kane County Courthhouse building is also smack dab in the middle of town on Third Street.
gG raduate or professional degree: 22%
Housing g Total households: 7,906 g Family households: 75% g Avg. household size: 2.7 gM ean price for detached houses: $266,947
gO wner-occupied units: 6,416
gR enter-occupied units: 1,490
gG ross median rent: $1,167
Business/Employment
Education gH igh school degree or higher: 98%
g B achelor’s degree or higher: 54%
Let the Festivities Begin While almost every town in the western suburbs hosts a festival of some kind, Geneva’s events take things up a notch, both in what they offer and how they are run, say longtime community leaders and residents.
gR esidents employed: 97% gR esidents unemployed: 3% gA vg. travel time to work: 26 min Sources: 2015 U.S. Census, City-Data.com and usa.com
Gaines points to the involvement from the business community, city leadership, residents and others who make community events happen. “When I see how many people come together to put on something like Swedish Days, it makes me so proud,” she says of the annual
Share some
Summer Sweetness
With the love of your life
230 West State Street Geneva, Illinois 630.232.2085 www.statestreetjewelers.com 70 JULY/AUGUST 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING
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six-day event in late June. Coming up this month, a calendar highlight is the Geneva Arts Fair on July 22 and 23, held along the 100 block of south Third Street. More than 140 artists will showcase their original works across a variety of media at this juried outdoor event. Another favorite among locals and visitors alike is the Festival of the Vine, slated for September 8 to 10 at State and Fourth streets. As its name suggests, this event is a harvest-time celebration that centers on wine and food, with wine tastings, artisan fare, entertainment and other goings-on, such as an arts and crafts show, flower market, and a live demonstration stage. The festival line-up in Geneva offers something for everyone. “Each of our festivals has a certain flavor,” says Gaines. “Swedish Days, for example, is family oriented, the Geneva Arts show is a very fine art show that attracts an older audience, and the Festival of the Vine draws couples and groups. During the holidays, we are back to a family event with the Christmas Walk in December.” Beyond the Chamber’s offerings, there’s a French market on Sundays through mid-November in the parking lot of the Metra station. It’s a spot to buy fresh flowers, farm produce and baked goods, along with some craft and gift items. Thursday evenings bring people to the Courthouse parking lot at Fourth and James streets for classic car shows. Then there’s the Geneva Concourse d’Elegance on August 17, which features a collection of antique, classic and modern cars from enthusiasts all over the country. Arts lovers, meantime, can enjoy concerts at RiverPark Amphitheater on select Sundays in summer, Shakespeare in the Park at Island Park on July 15, and the Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival on September 3 and 4 at Island Park. There are new events to meet other interests as well. “Art Affair, Geneva’s newest event, offers an evening of live music, live painting, hors d’oeuvres and a fine silent auction,” says Jamie Heflin, business development specialist in the WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 71
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TOWN FOCUS
610 Home
The 4200 square foot warehouse is the perfect backdrop for an eclectic mix of new and vintage furnishings and accessories. We offer design to the savvy and sophisticated shopper.
Geneva
city’s economic development office. The November 10 event will raise funds to support Geneva Cultural Arts Commission events held throughout the year, including the RiverPark Summer Concert Series, Shakespeare in the Park, Steeple Walk and the Geneva Film Festival. The festivals in Geneva are not standalone events — merchants and restaurateurs are often integrated in some way, too. “Festival of the Vine is one of our favorites,” says McGowan, explaining that business owners benefit from staying open late and taking advantage of crowds drawn to town. For a full list of events throughout the year, including the annual Wedding Walk in the spring, visit the events page on the city website at www.geneva.il.us.
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Geneva History Museum has a frontand-center location on a popular stretch of Third Street, helping visitors engage with the history of the area. “Before, we were out in Wheeler Park and not many people knew we were there,” says Terry Emma, executive director of the Geneva History Museum and a third generation resident of Geneva. “Now, being in the heart of downtown, I’d say about 80 percent of our visitors are tourists from out of town who are walking and enjoying Geneva. Seeing us makes them curious about the history of the town.” The museum boasts a variety of displays including a feature gallery that’s rotated twice a year, as well as a permanent main gallery with the popular Geneva’s Story exhibition. Through the end of August, the museum has a special hands-on children’s exhibit, Building Geneva, which showcases architectural concepts to kids ages 3 to 8. The feature gallery, running through early November, is called Geneva’s Faces, Places and Spaces. There is an on-site gift shop at the museum, too. “Some of our most popular items are Geneva sweatshirts and t-shirts. We also sell wine glasses, Moscow mule mugs and pottery. It’s a souvenir shop as well as a place for people to pick up gifts
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for those moving into or out of town,” explains Emma. Like other attractions, the museum is especially busy in the summer. Taking advantage of the warm weather, the museum offers tours of historic sites by trolley or bike and on foot. Geneva on Wheels is a half-hour bike tour, with occasional stops for show-and-tell at points of interest. Groups meet at Mill Race Cyclery, where bikes are available to rent. Reflecting residents’ pride in their town, the Geneva History Museum flourishes in large part because of its volunteer base. “We are a very small staff and we have a great corps of volunteers,” says Emma. “We started volunteer appreciation months this year, and so far, we’ve had 75 volunteers account for more than 3,000 hours.”
A Windmill, a Viking Ship and a Prairie Home Soaring 68 feet high, Fabyan Windmill, inside the Fabyan Forest Preserve, is a vintage Dutch-style windmill built in the 1850s by a German craftsman. It’s been called the best example of an authentic Dutch windmill in this country. Visitors can check out how it operates by taking a tour on weekends from May through mid-October, between 1 and 4 p.m. Another unique attraction is the Viking Ship Exhibit, a large circa 1893 replica of a Viking sea vessel called the Gokstad, displayed at Good Templar Park in Geneva. Tours are available between 1 and 4 p.m. on July 8 and 15, August 19, September 16, October 21 and November 11 and 12. Elsewhere in town, step back in time at a prairie homestead built in 1843. The Durant-Peterson House is run by the Forest Preserve and is sponsored by the Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley. Live demonstrations and re-enactments of prairie life are held on Sunday afternoons in the summer.
Peck Farm Park and Other Green Spaces The Geneva Park District offers more than 3,000 programs a year for all
SG Geneva & Scentimental Gardens 428 W. State St. Geneva 630.232.1303
House • Shop • Interiors • Landscapes
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Photo by Kim Byrne of KimberleeB Photography
TOWN FOCUS
Geneva
ages, maintains 50 parks and 69 miles of scenic trails, and runs recreation centers including the Sunset Racquetball & Fitness Center and Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center. The park district also oversees Peck Farm Park, “a definite gem of Geneva and the Tri-City area,” maintains Traci Wicks, director of marketing and public relations for the park district. The 385-acre park includes trails for hiking and biking, a 19-acre lake and unique features such as a sensory garden and a butterfly house open during the summer months. It’s a spot for both doing and learning, adds Wicks. “Peck Farm Park is a leader in providing environmental education, offering a wide variety of events such as camps, field trips, and family and adult programs to increase awareness of conservation and the importance of protecting our green space.” The Peck House, on the grounds of the park, is also open to the public and includes a history gallery with interactive
exhibits and an observation tower. Between parks run by the Geneva Park District and the Kane County Forest Preserve, there is a lot of natural green space to enjoy in Geneva. The Fox River Trail, stretching 43 miles from Algonquin to Aurora, cuts through Geneva along the Fox River and is regularly used by bikers, runners and walkers. Other popular trails winding through town include the Great Western Trail and Illinois Prairie Path. Garden lovers can also find a beautiful respite at the Japanese tea garden on the grounds of the Fabyan Villa Museum in the Fabyan West Forest Preserve. Installed in 1910 on the estate of Colonel George Fabyan and his wife Nelle, the garden is open on Wednesday and Sunday
afternoons through mid-October and on Thursday afternoons until August.
Cougars’ Stadium If Geneva is an all-American kind of town, it completes that image with its own baseball field. The minor league Kane County Cougars baseball team plays at Northwestern Medicine Field, a venue that has a capacity of nearly 11,000. Beyond the game of baseball, Cougars games are entertaining for other reasons. There are three party decks or picnic events and a “Leinenkugel’s Leinie Lodge” in right field. Kids can take part in a variety of pre-game activities and run the bases after the game. Special events are part of the fun at the ballpark. In July, the Kane County Cougars are holding a Professional Wrestling Night at the field, with appearances by WWE wrestler “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. For a game schedule and list of special activities, visit www.kccougars.com.
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Geneva Commons While downtown Geneva gets a lot of focus for its picturesque location and historical charm, there are other busy commercial areas in town which add to the community’s amenities. A large section of Randall Road along the western edge of Geneva is a prime example. “Randall Road is a dynamic route. It’s all of three miles long and serves not just residents but people from throughout the area, including our friends in areas to our west,” says Mayor Burns. “The success of Randall Road supports the success of downtown Geneva — they don’t compete with one another, but complement each other.” To illustrate his point, Burns notes that Geneva Commons generates about $100 million in sales a year, while downtown Geneva generates about $98 million. While some national “big box” stores have taken a hit from online sales and closed in recent years, Burns says that new stores are already going into vacant spots along the Randall Road corridor. The Geneva Commons Shopping Center, along Randall Road at Bricher Road, includes dozens of shops with a national brand presence, such as American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, Claire’s, DSW, Gap and many others. In addition to shopping, Geneva Commons has become a destination for entertainment, hosting a concert series in June as well as sidewalk sales and other special mini-events.
Thank You for Voting Fiora’s the Best Restaurant in 2017! “Ofte n com pare Ta in Ne vern on th d to the e w Yor k City Green in its prime .”
“ I was already looking forward to going back when it came time to leave.” – Kane County Mystery Diner, January 26, 2011
Fiora’s wants to thank all of our valued guests for voting us BEST RESTAURANT 4 times! Our award-winning outdoor patio in the heart of beautiful Historic Geneva is now open and will be featuring live music throughout the summer. We invite you to enjoy fine wine, dining and entertainment at its best.
Other Highlights in Geneva • If you’re into craft brews, check out Fox River Distilling Company, Penrose Brewing Company or Windmill Ginger Brew. The breweries offer tours to the public, in addition to selling products on-site. • Geneva’s population has grown over the past two decades, and new developments are expected to bring others to town or provide options for people looking to downsize or get into home ownership. A new 40-unit townhome development, Riverbank of Geneva, is being planned for nearly six acres surrounding the Riverbank
Contemporary American Cuisine u Fine Wines & Classic Cocktails Desserts Homemade Daily u Great Prices Located in a Landmark Building in the Heart of Beautiful Historic Downtown Geneva Open for Lunch and Dinner u Events/Parties u Outdoor Seating
630.262.1317 Call for reservations 317 S. Third Street • Geneva, IL • www.fioras.com WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | JULY/AUGUST 2017 75
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TOWN FOCUS
Geneva
Photo courtesy of Geneva Park District
Resources
PECK FARM PARK
Geneva Public Library District
Total Holdings: 174,519 Items Checked Out Per Year: 669,611 Visitors per Year: 269,290
Attractions
n Island Park: 2 E State St., 630 232-4542. Local park featuring gardens, bike trails, a picnic shelter and a playground. It is also home to the summer music series, Concerts in the Park.
Coming in september
20th Annual
DINING GUIDE
n Northwestern Medicine Field: 34W002 Cherry Ln., 630 232-8811. Home field to the Kane County Cougars minor league baseball team. Other amenities include a KidZone with a slide and bounce house. n Playhouse
38: 321 Stevens St., Suite P, 630 232-4501. Local community theatre featuring both adult and children’s productions.
n Windy
Acres Farm: 37W446 Fabyan Pkwy., 630 232-6429. Local, family owned farm, featuring a fall festival, holiday pies, Christmas trees, fresh vegetables and more.
Museums n Fabyan
Villa Museum & Japanese Garden: 2001 S. Batavia Ave., 630 377-6424. Historic home of businessman George Fabyan containing a private collection of Asian artifacts, natural history specimens, original furniture and more. The property
also features a tranquil Japanese garden. n Geneva History Museum: 113 S. Third St., 630 232-4951. Museum dedicated to collecting and preserving the local history, while educating the community through regular exhibitions and sponsored events.
Recreation n Eagle
Brook Country Club: 2288 Fargo Blvd., 630 208-4653. 40,000 square-foot clubhouse with member dining services, golf course, fitness center and more. n Geneva
Golf Club: 831 South St., 630 232-0624. Familyoriented club with a golf course, swimming pool, three tennis courts and more.
n Mill Creek Golf Club: 39W525 Herrington Dr., 630 208-7272. Local club including amenities such as golf courses, lessons, a clubhouse with locker rooms, dining and more. n Peck Farm Park: 4038 Kaneville Rd., 630 262-8244. Historic farm and 385-acre nature retreat featuring a butterfly house, an amphitheater and bike trails. n SPRC Center: 3507 Kaneville Rd., 630 232-4501. Fitness center featuring two gyms, a 3-lane running/walking track, and a range of weight training and cardiovascular equipment. n Stone Creek Mini Golf Course: 101 North St., 630 232-4542. 18-hole course
Laboratories property. • The Fox Valley Ice Arena includes two ice rinks and a fitness center, along with an on-premises restaurant and pub.
featuring a windmill, water wheel, creek, wishing well and more. n Sunset Pool: 710 Western Ave., 630 232-4542. Aquatic playground featuring climbing walls, water cannons, heated water, a tube slide, lap lanes, drop slides and more.
Events
n Swedish Days: Downtown Geneva, 630 232-6060. An annual summer festival with family friendly activities such as live music, a carnival, food, shopping, Kids’ Day fun, the Grand Parade, Sweden Väst and Geneva’s Got Talent. n Geneva Classic Car Show: Fourth and James St., www.genevachamber.com. Summer car show event featuring food, live music and more. n RiverPark Summer Concert Series: RiverPark, N. River Ln. & Peyton St., 630 938-4530. Summer performances on Sunday evenings, featuring jazz and classical ensembles. n Festival of the Vine: Downtown Geneva, 630 232-6060. Harvest themed fest featuring wine, food and a Fine Arts & Crafts show, held at the end of summer in September. n Christmas Walk: Downtown Geneva, 630 232-6060. Tree-lighting, visits from Santa, carriage rides and more at this annual holiday event.
The facility is home to the Chicago Steel junior hockey team. The arena is open to the public for skating, as well as for watching hockey games during the season. n
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DINING |
REVIEWS
|
LISTINGS
|
CHEERS WINE COLUMN
|
AND MUCH MORE Photo courtesy of Cornerstone Restaurant Group
RESTAURANT OPENINGS
OPENING SOON
Michael Jordan’s Restaurant
T
he spirit of excellence that surrounded
a prime Delmonico ribeye, reportedly one
Jordan’s. Designed by one of Chicago’s
Michael Jordan’s career in basketball
of MJ’s personal favorites. A 23-ingredient
premier architectural firms, the dining room
now inspires the dining experience
chopped salad tossed table-side is just one
sports basketball court flooring. A mural in the
at this refined American restaurant
element that links the high-energy dining room
star’s image is composed of 30,000 dots that
and bar. Executive Chef Craig
with an active, open-view kitchen.
represent points scored over MJ’s career.
Cooper emphasizes premium quality and
A small but tasty selection of desserts
A large bar, perfect for viewing sporting
seasonal ingredients in an elevated menu
includes a seasonal berry cheesecake and
events, a summer patio, and multiple private
that stars Chilean Sea Bass in a sweet Naque
a Nutella crème brûlée.
dining options make the venue a celebration
Choux sauce, a humorously plated pork chop sandwich with the bone still attached, and
The vibrant, fun-loving atmosphere has a lot to do with the appeal of Michael
destination in the heart of Oak Brook (1225 W. 22nd St. , 312 455-8626).
– Anne Knudsen
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By Lynn Patrak
Photos courtesy of Primo
GoOd food
Primo Savoir “fare” with Parisian flair in downtown Geneva
W
alking into Primo in bustling downtown Geneva, there is a distinct Willy Wonka vibe, evocative of the Roald Dahl book-turned-movie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. For one thing, there is a floor-toceiling chocolate “fountain,” comprised of colorful wheels, gears and pulleys and interspersed with sugar-art rock candy. Then, and delightfully, there is the aroma of fine chocolate, wafting under the frosted door leading to All Chocolate Kitchen, a dessert café adjacent to the restaurant. Both are run by Alain Roby, a Paris-trained master chef. When developing the concept and menu for Primo nearly two years ago, Chef Roby went back to his roots, creating dishes based on gourmet specialties prepared with the best local ingredients. He also chose to strictly target the adult crowd — Primo is for those 21 and older only. On a balmy summer night, a perfect starter is the Mozzarella di Buffala and Heirloom Tomato salad, with slices of soft cheese laid over seedless slices of tomatoes so ripe that they seem to have been plucked from the garden moments before the meal. Even midsummer, the Creamy
Corn and Poblano soup is rich and rewarding, served with a house-made soft corn breadstick presented on a small plate that looks like a modern art canvas, with swirls of spice-infused olive oil and a sprig of rosemary. Short ribs with spiced green lentils Another delectable option is French Provençal flavors are a reminder the Bresaola and Grana Padana salad of Chef Roby’s background in classic — greens married with lean cured beef European techniques. filet and nutty cheese shavings. As one might expect, Chef Roby Palate meets palette on artfully infuses chocolate into several desserts. arranged boards of charcuterie and A standout is the trio of crème brûlée, artisanal cheeses. Choose Prosciutto including a Grand Cru Chocolate Cup, di Parma, Varzi Salami and Citrus and as well as classic and seasonal versions. Lemongrass Salami or opt for French pâté Chocolate lovers may not be able to and, apt for the setting, Chocolate Salami. pass up the flight of chocolate truffles, Soft fromages like Gres Champenois, the devil’s food cake served with more Papilllon Parail Brie and Jacquin Crottin than a dollop of whipped cream, or the goat cheese pair with piquant choices chocolate flourless cake with a refreshing like Sarvecchio, St. Agur Blue Cheese raspberry coulis. or the intriguing coffee-rubbed cheddar. Like the beguiling Willy Wonka, A variety of entrées underscores Chef Chef Roby is omnipresent in this intimate Roby’s artistic flair and acclaimed culinary venue that seats just 25. His quotes skills. Homespun dishes include Grandma sprinkle the menu and on a busy Saturday Louise’s Eggplant Confit, Three Cheeses night, guests will likely catch glimpses of Crostini, Seared Lamb Shank with White him checking in with staff while creating Beans and Short Ribs with Spiced Green culinary magic in the kitchen. n Lentils. In these and other dishes, sublime
QUICK FACTS
Primo
29 S. Third St., Geneva 630 232-2280 www.allchocolatekitchenprimo.com
Recommended Dishes
Cost
Hours
Extras
Mozzarella di Buffala &
Appetizers: $6 - $14
Wed & Thur: 5 – 9 p.m.
Reservations: Yes
Heirloom Tomato salad,
Entrées: $15 - $25
Fri & Sat: 5 - 10 p.m.
Must be 21 or older
Trio of crème brulee
Desserts: $7 - $12
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DIning Photo by Angela Engebretson
n n n n Recently Opened
Listings Following is a sampling of some of the best dining destinations in the western suburbs, including reader favorites, advertisers and a cross-section of just plain good places to grab a bite. Bon appétit! n Central DuPage n Nw DuPage & Upper Fox Valley n Sw DuPage & lower fox valley n Se Dupage & SW Cook n Ne DuPage & nw cook
n Adelle’s: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.
New twists on old American favorites served by seasoned professionals in a stylish ambiance. Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: White fish. Entrée prices: $18-$34. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, wine room, carry-out, live jazz Th at 7 pm, live music on select other nights, lounge, fireplaces. T-Th 4:30-8:30, F-Sat 4:30-9:30, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Recommended. n Allgauer’s: 3003 Corporate West Dr, Lisle;
in the Hilton Lisle/Naperville. 630 245-7650. Classic American fare with an eclectic twist in a contemporary environment. Specializes in locally sourced, dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and chops. Capacity:196 at 44 tables. Yrs in bus: 35. Chef’s Choice: Potato-crusted halibut. Entrée prices: $25- $44; lunch menu $9-$18. Extras: Bar, banquets, family friendly, Sunday brunch, breakfast buffet Mon-Sun, lunch buffet M-F, seafood buffet on Friday. Breakfast M-F 6:30-11 am, Sat 7-11 am, Sun 7-9:30 am; Lunch M-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Sun 4-10, F seafood & prime rib buffet 5:30-8:30, Sun brunch 10:30-2:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Altiro Latin Fusion: 308 Anderson Blvd,
Geneva. 630 232-7717. A tapas restaurant with innovative flavors from Spanish and Latin cuisine. Capacity: 50 plus 40 outside. Yrs In bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Altiro tilapia tacos. Entrée prices: $8-$12. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, patio. Lunch T-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Th 4-9, F-Sat 4-10; Brunch Sun 10-2. Reservations: Recommended. Affiliated with Al Chulo, 1400 S Neltnor Blvd., West Chicago, 630 520-0615. n Anyway’s Chicago Restaurant & Pub 5 E Roosevelt Rd, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 932-9323. Classic neighborhood restaurant and pub serving American cuisine. Capacity: 200 at 45 tables. Yrs in bus: 20. Chef’s Choice: Izzy’s jambalaya pasta and Certified Angus burgers. Entrée prices: $7-$15. Extras: Bar, carry-out, banquets, outdoor dining, kids’ menu, daily specials. M-Th 11:30 am1 am, F-Sat 11:30 am-2 am, Sun noon-1 am. Reservations: Yes, for 10 or more. Additional location at 304 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, 630 351-8870. n Atwater’s: 15 S River Ln, Geneva; in The
Herrington Inn & Spa. 630 208-8920. Eclectic American cuisine with a rotating, seasonal menu in a European style atrium setting overlooking the Fox River. Capacity: 40. Yrs in bus: 23. Entrée prices: $24-$45. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, catering, private dining in gazebo, event space. Breakfast M-F 7 am-11 am, Sat-Sun 8 am-11 am; Lunch M-Sun 11-2; Dinner Sun-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10; Brunch Sun 11-2. Reservations: Recommended.
SixtyFour - A Wine Bar
W
Light, imaginative fare in Naperville’s new Water Street District hen the “soft” opening
evening, drawn from the bar’s
pecans. A scallops entrée is
of a new restaurant
cellars of 1,000 and served
finessed with Nicoise olives and
draws upwards of 600 diners,
from automated WineStations.
a parsley buerre blanc, while
that’s a sign something special
Expert sommeliers are on hand
the Berkshire pork belly uses a
has come to town.
for recommendations.
thai chili glaze to marry flavors
Casual-chic ambiance and
Light fare and uncommon
of Brussels sprouts and ginger.
fresh, bold cuisine are the forté
ingredients guide Chef
of SixtyFour - A Wine Bar, the
McLaughlin’s menu, starting
panini are similarly elevated,
eagerly awaited newcomer
with cheese and charcuterie
while the dessert menu
to Naperville’s upscale dining
platters that feature German
offers sorbets, tarts and
scene. An elegantly imagined
Cambozola and wild boar or
crème brûlée.
menu by Executive Chef
duck salami. There’s a salad
Patrick McLaughlin is designed
with heirloom beets, goat
SixtyFour’s capacity of 90
for pairings with 64 wines per
cheese foam and candied
to 130.
n Autre Monde Café: 6727 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn.
708 775-8122. Mediterranean-infused fare served in an urban setting. Capacity: 85, 75 patio seating. Yrs in bus: 5. Entrée prices: $13-$24, smaller plates $6-$15. Chef’s Choice: Pastas made fresh daily and flatbreads. Extras: Outdoor patio, private parties, catering, wine list, Sun brunch 10-2. T-Th 5-10, F-Sat 5-11, Sun 5-9. Reservations: Yes. n Barrel + Rye: 477 S Third St, Geneva.
630 402-0647. American bistro featuring craft beers, venison burgers and small shareable plates. Capacity: 32, 25 at bar. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Southern deep fried chicken. Entrée prices: $9-$16. Extras: TVs, full bar, free Wi-Fi, carry-out, selection of whiskey, scotch and bourbon, patio. Sun-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-2 am. Reservations: No. n Basils Greek Dining: 4000 Fox Valley Center
Burgers, flatbreads and
A riverside patio expands – Anne Knudsen
and contemporary authentic Italian dining in a casual, friendly setting. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Black fettuccine with lobster & wild mushrooms. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Exhibition kitchen, bar, wine list, children’s menu, gluten-free menu, carry-out, catering, private parties, family friendly. M-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 20560 N Rand Rd, Deer Park, 847 438-1850. n The burger Local: 577 S 3rd St, Geneva.
630 232-2806. Locally sourced beef burgers made in a rustic environment. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Double Diner or Hawaii burger. Entrée prices: $11-$15. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. Sun-T 11-9, W-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11 (bar open later). Reservations: No.
Dr, Aurora. 630 692-1300. Award-winning Greek/ Mediterranean restaurant with a modern flair. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Oven roasted lamb shank. Entrée prices: $21-$49. Extras: Bar, banquets, outdoor dining, catering, carry-out, craft beer on tap. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes.
n Capri Ristorante: 324 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Burr Ridge. 630 455-4003. Authentic Italian fare served in a warm, elegant setting. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Homemade rigatoni with vodka sauce, with soup or salad. Entrée prices: $15-$40. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, outdoor dining, private parties. M 11:30-2 & 4-10, T-F 11:30-10, Sat 4-11, Sun 2-9. Reservations: Recommended.
n Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2752 Showplace Dr, Naperville. 630 428-8500. Classic
n Carlucci: 1801 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove. 630 512-0990. Rustic Italian restaurant serving Tuscan
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GoOd food
By Tom Witom
D^licious Crêpes & Rõti A fusion of Indian and French street fare in Bartlett
D
^licious Crêpes & Rõti has merited the loyalty of local diners ever since this curious blend of Mediterranean and Indian cuisine debuted in late 2014. Diners admire the fusion menu, which brings together popular street foods of France and India. Creative bistro dishes run the gamut from tandoori burritos and kathi rolls (Indian flatbread) to sweet and savory crêpes. The venue occupies an unassuming spot in a strip mall a hop and a skip from the Metra stop in downtown Bartlett. Seating capacity is limited to about 25 indoors while a seasonal patio adds room for another 14 customers. One can order any dish on the menu regardless of the time of day. And the experience won’t break the bank. The most expensive entrée goes for $12.75, with most priced in the $10 range. Dishes are made in-house using spices shipped from India. A recent meal starred lamb karahi, a substantial northern Indian flatbread stuffed with lamb, garbanzo beans, red onions and tamarind chutney, served with homemade raita — a yogurt sauce. Equally flavorful was a
companion’s humus-topped Mediterranean crêpe, one of 10 signature crepes. Her dish was filled with roasted chicken breast, crumbled feta, tomato and red onion. Other savory crêpe fillings include ham and Rumali rõti burrito bowl with homemade raita cheese, shrimp scampi, spinach and artichoke, and sriracha duck banana, mango or strawberries. confit. High marks to the hard-to-resist Or, for what the menu describes as blueberry lemon curd dessert crêpe. “a decadent espresso float,” order the On request, D^licious Crepes D^licious Affogatto, a tasty treat & Roti will convert a dish to vegetarian involving a scoop of gelato topped or gluten-free. with a shot of hot espresso. Portions were large enough to share Seven breakfast crêpes give diners or box up for a second meal at home. plenty of choices. Steak and eggs, for Alcohol isn’t on offer, but you won’t example, brings together scrambled miss it. The beverage service includes eggs, seared steak, mozzarella and aioli. sweetened, flavored iced coffee (beans Another tempting version matches up imported from Paris) and chai (herbal the eggs with Parisian ham, goat cheese, tea) that’s especially refreshing this honey, walnuts, portobello mushrooms time of year. and baby spinach. Still other beverage options include D^licious takes a minimalist fruit juices and soft drinks. Check out the approach to decor, papering its walls cafe’s lassi, a traditional homemade Indian with travel posters and the like. Instead, yogurt smoothie: sweet, mango or salted the focus stays where it counts the most masala ginger. — on the quality of the food it serves Dessert fans also will want to consider and the courteous and knowledgeable a gelato smoothie prepared with avocado, wait staff. n
QUICK FACTS
D^licious Crêpes & Rõti
225 S. Main St., Bartlett 630 855-3246 www.dliciouscrepesandroti.com
Recommended Dishes
Cost
Hours
Extras
Mediterranean crêpe;
Breakfast: $7.25 - $9.25
Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Gluten free options,
lamb karahi; blueberry
Lunch: $9.25 - $12.75
Sun: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
outdoor patio,
lemon curd crêpe
Desserts: $6 - $10.25
street parking
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DIning cuisine. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Linguini bobonato. Entrée prices: $12-$33. Extras: Carry-out, private dining, outdoor dining, bar open later, live entertainment. Lunch M-F 11:30-3:30; Dinner M-Th 3:30-9:30, F 3:30-10:30, Sat 4:30-10:30, Sun 4:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Catch 35: 35 S Washington St, Naperville. 630 717-3500. A deep and interesting variety of flavorful seafood and premium steaks in an uptown atmosphere. Capacity: 192. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Chilean sea bass. Entrée prices: $16-$50. Extras: Bar, private parties, family friendly, outdoor dining, valet parking T-Sat. Lunch M-Sat 11:30-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Cine Modern Taqueria: 29 E First St, Hinsdale.
630 590-5655. Contemporary Mexican restaurant serving quality Latin fare. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Mole Negro. Entrée prices: $16$30. Extras: Outdoor dining, carry-out, delivery, daily specials, full bar, live entertainment on Th, free kids’ tacos on Sun. Lunch T-Sat 11:30-2:30; Dinner Sun-M 5-9, T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11. Reservations: Yes. n CityGate Grille: 2020 Calamos Ct, Naperville.
630 718-1010. Fine dining, ontemporary American fare. Capacity: 220. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Seared Diver Scallops and Steak Risotto. Entrée prices: $18-$39, Avg: $25. Extras: Live music F-Sat, private parties, catering, kids’ menu. M-Th 11:30-9, F 11:30-10, Sat 5-10 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes. n Clara’s: 6550 S Rt 53, Woodridge. 630 968-8899. Fresh homemade pastas and sauces, fresh seafood, handmade wood stone pizzas, veal and beef dishes. Capacity: 275. Yrs in bus: 29. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp Ersilia. Entrée prices: $8-$35, Avg: $12. Extras: Bar, patio, catering, carry-out, family friendly. T-Th 4-9, F-Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9. Reservations: Yes.
n COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT: 510
Village Center Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 887-0123. Upscale, yet casual dining featuring award-winning wines from Cooper’s Hawk’s own winery. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi Carbonara. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Outdoor patio, bar, wine club, tasting room, retail boutique, private parties, full wine list, live music Th-Sat. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Recommended. Additional locations at 100 W Higgins Rd, South Barrington, 847 836- 9463; and 1740 Freedom Dr, Naperville, 630 245-8000. n Country House: 2095 S Kirk Rd, Geneva. 630 208-8181. Steaks, burgers, seafood and pasta in a casual, rustic setting. Capacity: 240 (30 tables inside, 70 outside). Yrs in bus: 40. Chef’s Choice: Country Cheeseburger. Entrée prices: $9-$20, Avg: $12. Extras: Carry-out, bar, kids’ menu, outdoor dining, catering and banquets. Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11; bar open until 1 am daily. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 241 55th St, Clarendon Hills, 630 325-1444; and 6460 College Rd, Lisle, 630 983-0545. n Davanti Enoteca: 800 W Hillgrove Ave, Western
Springs. 708 783-1060. Simple Italian fare served in a rustic wine bar setting. Capacity: 130 plus 30 on a seasonal patio. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Focaccia di Recco, Burratta Salad and Davante Burger. Entrée prices: $11-$24. Extras: Brunch Sat 11-2 and Sun 10-2, full bar, daily specials, Bloody Mary bar, M-F rotating sandwich menu. M-T 11:30-9, W-Th 11:30-9:30, F 11:30-10, Sat 11-10, Sun 10-9 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes. n Dell Rhea Chicken Basket: 645 Joliet Rd,
Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried chicken in a 1940s-style Route 66 roadhouse featuring video gaming. Capacity: 225 at 40 tables. Yrs in bus: 70. Chef’s Choice: 50/50 burger and breakfast
burger. Entrée prices: $10-$20, Avg: $13. Extras: Carry-out, bar, catering, over 50 beers. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes. n Devon Seafood + steak: 17W400 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 516-0180. Sleek, upscale venue serving fresh seafood and steak. Capacity: 237. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Maple Plank Salmon Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Entrée prices: $21-$58, lunch $11-$25. Extras: Private banquet room, vegetarian and gluten-free menus, wine list, happy hour M-F, full bar (open later), half-priced wine bottles on Mondays. M 11-9 T-F 11-10, Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.
n Ditka’s: Rt 83 & 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 572-2200. Fine dining steakhouse also offering fresh seafood, burgers and sandwiches in a hospitable and vibrant atmosphere. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Da Pork Chop and Pot Roast Nachos. Entrée prices: $10-$50. Extras: Awardwinning wine list, full bar, private rooms, breakfast on Sat & Sun 9-2, complimentary valet parking, gluten-free options. M-F 11-10, Sat 9-10, Sun 9-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location in Chicago. n D.O.C. Wine Bar: 326 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 627-6666. Light, contemporary fare and 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 noonmidnight, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. n Eddie Merlot’s: 28254 Diehl Rd, Warrenville.
630 393-1900. Upscale contemporary steakhouse with a lighter ambiance also known for its wine. Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Prime aged steaks and wagyu. Entree prices: $23-$51. Extras: Extensive wine list, outdoor dining, lounge
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DIning
Photo courtesy of Vintage 53
n n n n Recently Opened
Vintage 53 Rustic-industrial ambiance and a well-stocked wine cellar in St. Charles
W
occupancy by another 10.
ine connoisseurs are
menu featuring 10 flat
discovering Vintage 53
breads, small plates (such
at 162 S. First St., St. Charles
as barbecue pork belly,
has reclaimed wood and brick,
(630 549-0423), and early
Moroccan cauliflower and
concrete floors and vintage-
returns are positive, says owner
rabbit sausage) and assorted
style Edison bulb lighting.
Mario Grado.
cheeses and charcuterie. The
Vintage 53 hosts private
average per-person food tab
functions during off hours and
100 carefully chosen wines,
runs from $15 to $20.
on days when the venue is
including many sold by the
Vintage 53 — housed in
closed. It is open Tue – Thur
glass,” Grado says. There’s
new construction that is part
from 3 to 11 p.m.; Fri – Sat
also a selection of craft beers.
of the village’s First Street
from 3 p.m. to midnight and
Head Chef Alton Morris
redevelopment project —
Sun noon to 8 p.m.
oversees a creative food
seats 65; a patio increases
“Our cellar stocks close to
with drink specials. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 201 Bridewell Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 468-2098. n Empire Burgers & Brews: 48 W Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 355-9000. Craft beers and burgers in an urban atmosphere. Extras: Carry-out, full bar, whiskey selection, live music, outdoor seating, happy hour. M-Th 11-1 am, F-Sat 11-2 am, Sun 11-midnight. Reservations: Accepted. n The Finery & Blacksmith Bar: 305 W Main St, St. Charles 630 940-2380. Contemporary American fare in a bistro-like atmosphere. Capacity: Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Country Pheasant and Flat Iron Steak. Extras: Artisan cocktails, craft beers, Happy Hour, family friendly, carry-out, Sunday brunch. T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 11-3 and 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Emilio’s Tapas Bar: 4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside. 708 547-7177. Spanish tapas in an authentic countryside atmosphere. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 28. Chef’s Choice: Paella and Datiles con Bacon. Entrée prices: $6-$16 per person. Extras: flowered patio, online reservations, carry-out, bar, family friendly, “Tapeo” $1.95 bites menu 4:30-6:30 M-Fri, GrubHub and Yelp Eat 24, live entertainment Fridays, full bar, catering. M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes.
The rustic-industrial interior
– T.R. Witom
n Fire + Wine: 433 N Main St, Glen Ellyn.
630 793-9955. Rustic and inviting restaurant with modern Italian flair, serving small-plate fare, authentic Neapolitan artesian pizzas and classic pastas in a family friendly atmosphere. Capacity: 135. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Hanger Steak and Grilled Romaine Salad. Entrée prices: $7-$19. Extras: Bar, carry-out, wine list, craft beer, family friendly, kids’ menu, private event hosting, specials. T-Th 4-11, F 4-midnight, Sat 3-midnight Sun 3-10. Reservations: Call-ahead seating. n Fogo De CHAo: 1824 Abriter Ct, Naperville.
630 955-0022. Brazilian steakhouse known for its churrasco style of cooking various meats over an open fire in a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Capacity: 200. Mths in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Cordeiro and Picanha. Entrée prices: Avg: $32/$49. Extras: Full bar, family friendly, valet, seasonal patio, Sunday brunch. Lunch: Sun-F 11-2; Dinner: M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 5460 Park Pl, Rosemont, 847 678-7200. n Fuller House: 35 E First St, Hinsdale. 630 537-1653.
Craft beer and bar food in an industrial, rustic setting. Capacity: 140. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Buffalo shrimp or brisket grilled cheese. Entrée prices: $11-$20. Extras: Updated sound system, TVs,
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sidewalk seating, full bar, carry-out, beer garden in The Backyard. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 11-10. Reservations: Yes, for 6 or more. n Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse: 5464 N River
Rd, Rosemont. 847 928-9900. Classic American steakhouse offering USDA Prime Steaks, fresh seafood and huge portions in a 1920s art-deco style setting. Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: WR’s Chicago Cut. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Carry-out, catering, free valet parking, private parties, piano bar (open until 2 am), entertainment. M-Sun 11-2. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 2105 S Spring Rd, Oak Brook, 630 954-0000. n Gia Mia: 106 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 480-2480.
Old-world authentic Neapolitan pizza in a rustic restaurant. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 1.5. Chef’s Choice: Hand-crafted meatballs. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Newly renovated space, full bar, TVs, carry-out, large wine selection, fresh ingredients from local sources, mobile brick-oven. M 4-9, T-Th 11-2 and 4-10, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: No, but call-ahead seating available. Additional location at 13 N Third St. Geneva, 630 405-5544. n Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3400. Classic Italian steakhouse in a sportsthemed atmosphere. Capacity: 550. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Prime steaks, chops and Italian Specialties. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Outdoor dining, bar, sports memorabilia, carry-out, private events. Lunch M-Sun 11-5 (bar only); Dinner M-Sat 5-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 10233 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, 847 699-1200. n Heaven On Seven: 224 S Main St, Naperville.
630 717-0777. Louisiana-style restaurant featuring Cajun and Creole entrées. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp voodoo over rice. Entrée prices: $9-$20. Extras: Cooking classes, bar, catering. M-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sat 10-11 pm, Sun 10-9, Sat-Sun brunch 10-3. Reservations: Yes. n Hillgrove Tap: 800 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 290-0055. Bar fare with a creative twist served up in a family friendly neighborhood sports bar. Capacity: 115, plus 50 on a seasonal patio. Years in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Nacho Bites or Bourbon Glazed Pork Chop. Entrée prices: $12$19. Extras: TVs, 24 craft beers on tap, selection of bourbons and whiskeys, carry-out, full bar, outdoor seating. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun 11-10 pm. Reservations: Yes. n Holy Mackerel!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3444. Fresh take on fish house classics in a vintage décor. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Kasu marinated sea bass. Entrée prices: $9-$46. Extras: Private parties, bar, carry-out. Breakfast M-Sat 6-11, Sun 6 am-noon; Lunch M-Sat 11-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-9. Reservations: Yes. n Ivy Restaurant: 120 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 665-2489. Casually elegant dining featuring steaks, chops and seafood. Capacity: 170, plus 90 on the patio. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Black pepper shrimp. Entrée prices: Avg: $19. Extras: Banquets, outdoor dining, carry-out. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. n Kama Bistro: 9 S La Grange Rd, La Grange. 708 352-3300. Fresh and modern Indian fare with unique tastes served in an upscale and cozy setting. Capacity: 55 plus 20 on patio. Yrs in bus: 5. Chef’s Choice: Lamb Chop Masala. Entrée prices: $10-$34. Extras: Catering, gluten-free & vegan options, carry-out, delivery, patio. M 4-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11:30-9. Reservations: Yes. n Melting Pot: 255 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg. 847 843-8970. Traditional European fondue in a
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cheers
DIning
By Buzz Brandt
relaxed,romantic atmosphere. Capacity: 131 at 31 tables. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Fondue. Entrée prices: $32-$45. Extras: Bar, extensive wine list, ladies night. M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4-11, Sun noon-9. Reservations: Recommended. Additional locations at 1205 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove, 630 737-0810; and 4931 S Rt 59, Naperville, 630 717-8301.
Albariño
n Morton’s: 1751 Freedom Dr, Naperville.
Spain’s Galician gem
L
ight-bodied, tangy and lush with the flavors of stone fruits and citrus, the once little-known Albariño is quickly rising as a star on the international wine stage. A native of Galicia on the windswept northwest coast of the Iberian peninsula, the grape thrives in both Spain and Portugal. The predominance of the crop is grown on Spanish soil, particularly in the region of Rías Baixas, where it is recognized as Spain’s premiere white wine. Albariño is a small, thick-skinned, green grape that fares well in the region’s cool, damp and blustery maritime climate, although yields are low and the abundant rainfall make them prey to rot and mildew. To counter this, wine growers train the vines on 7-ft-high canopies called parras in order to take advantage of the drying winds. But the cool damp weather has a plus side, imparting a lean, dry, highly acidic crispness to the finished wines. Proximity to the sea manifests a pleasant salinity, although grapes grown inland in more sheltered micro-climates will often emphasize softer, richer overtones with more pronounced fruit and higher alcohol levels.
Albariño wines are sophisticated and elegant, exhibiting tantalizing scents of honeysuckle, orange blossom, almonds, lime zest, green apples, tropical melons, peaches and apricots, with a vibrant, succulent palate to match. Clean, zesty acidity is their signature characteristic, making the wines irresistibly food-friendly. Often a stony minerality is present as well due to the granite-andchalk soils. Most producers ferment Albariño in stainless steel tanks, but recently some are experimenting with oak barrel-aging and malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity and add fullness.
The grape is known as Alvarinho across the border in northern Portugal, where it is used to provide structure for the wines named after the Vinho Verde region. These are often infused with carbon dioxide to induce an effervescent, sparkling sensation in the mouth, but they are just as fresh, fruity and acidicly tangy as their Spanish neighbors. Alvarinho is also often blended with Portuguese varietals like Avesso, Arinto and Loureiro. Albariño has also been grown successfully in California, Oregon, Washington State, Australia and New Zealand. n
Expert wine recommendations • luis carreno Whole Foods 89 Danada Square East, Wheaton (630 588-1500) 2016 Bieler Family “Daisy” Pinot Grigio Blend (Wash. State) $17. Pinot Grigio dominates this field blend. Lush flavors of apples, peaches, pears, citrus and spring flowers are braced by racy acidity and a wonderful depth. 2016 El Terrano Albariño (Spain) $16. Zippy acidity greets the tongue with this Albariño
from the slopes of the Miño River. Clean and tangy, with juicy flavors of citrus and stone fruits buttressed by a saline minerality. • allixE lischette Cabernet and Company 434 N Main St., Glen Ellyn (630 469-2644) 2016 Ostatu Rosado Rioja (Spain) $16. Rosé from the chalky clay soils of Rioja. Aromas of ripe red berries and cherries lure the taste buds into a matching palate of
tangerines, herbs, spices and minerality. Acidity is mouth-watering and the finish is lively and packed with red fruits. 2011 CVNE Viña Real Crianza (Spain) $16. Cherry-red blend of Tempranillo and 10 percent Garnacha shows off a ripe nose of cherries, currants, plums, blackberries, and strawberries, with a hint of oak. Full-bodied, with balanced tannins and a spicy finish.
630 577-1372. Steaks and seafood in an upscale American steakhouse featuring an a la carte menu. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Porterhouse steak. Entrée prices: $40-$60. Extras: Bar, valet parking every day but M, lounge, private dining, patio. M-Th 5:30-10, F 5:30-11, Sat 5-11, Sun 5-10 (bar opens at 4). Additional locations at 9525 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, 847 678-5155; and 1470 McConnor Pkwy, Schaumburg, 847 413-8771.
n
R a w C E f S
n n Maya Del Sol: 144 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park.
708 358-9800. Casual, upscale Latin dining. Capacity: 175, 130 outdoors. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Carne asada. Entrée prices: $14-$36. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, live music, gluten and dairy free options, catering, carry-out, private dining. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9, Sun brunch 9-2. Reservations: Yes.
4 c s i C P M
n Nobel House: 305 W State St, Geneva.
n
630 402-0452. American comfort food and handcrafted cocktails served up at this gastropub. Capacity: 70. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Big Texas Burger. Entrée prices: $10-$24. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, free Wi-Fi, TVs, catering, brunch Sat & Sun, children’s menu. M-T 11-10, W-Th 11-11, F 11-2 am, Sat-Sun 10-2 am. Reservations: No.
6 l f C E M r H
n Palmer Place: 56 S La Grange Rd, La Grange.
708 482-7127. Casual American fare featuring 35 kinds of hamburgers. Capacity: 400+ (260 outside). Yrs in bus: 39. Chef’s Choice: Sirloin steak sandwich. Entrée prices: $9-$24. Extras: Bar with over 300 beers, kid’s menu, outdoor dining. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun noon-11. Reservations: No.
n
6 C C $ L 4
n Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille: 5 Oakbrook
n
Center, Oak Brook. 630 571-1808. Classic steakhouse with premium steaks and fare with tableside preparation. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: 14–oz New York Strip steak. Entrée prices: $26-$59. Extras: Private dining rooms, island bar, seasonal patio, live music M-Sat, carry-out. M-Th & Sat 4-10, F 11-10, Sun 4-9 (bar open later). Reservations: Yes.
6 f C o s S l 6 a
n Plank Bar & Kitchen: 120 Water St, Naperville.
630 778-9676. Upscale bar serving tastes of local food in a rustic modern atmosphere. Capacity: 50, 12 at bar. Chef’s Choice: Beer braised short rib or Mezcal brined pork tacos. Entrée prices: $12-$28. Extras: Covered and valet parking. Breakfast M-F 6:30-10:30, Sat-Sun 7:30-11:30; Dinner M-Sun 4:30-10 (bar until 11). Reservations: Yes. n Parkers’ Restaurant & BAr: 1000 31st St,
Downers Grove. 630 960-5700. Casually elegant, with a contemporary American menu. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 15. Chef’s Choice: Cedar-planked halibut and charcoal-grilled center cut pork chop. Entrée prices: $14-$65, Avg: $32. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private dining, live music in lounge W-Sat. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-8:30. Reservations: Recommended. n Patten House Restaurant & Bar 124 S Second St, Geneva. 630 492-5040. A newly renovated historic landmark featuring a distinctive menu with a Cajun flair. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: BBQ Pork Sandwich and Honey Sriracha Glazed Brussel Sprouts. Entrée prices: $18-$30. Extras: Full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 10-10. Reservations: Yes. n Patio Restaurant: 7440 S Kingery Hwy (Rt 83), Darien. 630 920-0211. Casual American dining
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specializing in BBQ ribs. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 27. Chef’s Choice: BBQ ribs. Entrée prices: $7-$22. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering, drive-up. M-Th 10:30-10, F-Sat 10:30-11 pm, Sun 10:30-9:30. Reservations: No. Additional locations at 4400 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora. 630 820-8800; 151 S Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, 630 226-9696; and 2780 S Highland Ave, Lombard, 630 627-2600. ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA: 483 Spring
Rd, Elmhurst. 630 279-8486. Italian cuisine served in a romantic, neighborhood setting accented by white tablecloths. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 54. Chef’s Choice: Fish entrées. Entrée prices: $14-$44. Extras: Carry-out, bar, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, banquets. M-Th 11-11, F 11-midnight, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-10. Reservations: Yes. SEARED FINE DINING: Westin Chicago Northwest,
400 Park Blvd., Itasca. 630 773-4000. Up-market contemporary fine dining, designed around fresh seafood and steaks, served in a modern yet intimate setting. Capacity: 70. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Short ribs. Entrée prices: $30-$50. Extras: Private dining room for up to 16; valet parking. M-Sat 5-11. Closed on Sunday. Reservations: Yes. SEASONS 52: 3 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook.
630 571-4752. Fresh grill and wine bar focusing on low-calorie entrées and farmers’ market-influenced fare. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Caramelized sea scallops. Entrée prices: $16-$25. Extras: Extensive wine list, live music, private dining. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes, recommended. Additional location at 1770 E Higgins Rd, Schaumburg. 847 517-5252. SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE: 244 S Main St, Naperville. 630 305-0230. Steak, chops and seafood in a 1940s Chicago-style décor. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 18. Chef’s Choice: Seafood and steak. Entrée prices: $30-$60. Extras: Bar, live entertainment, valet parking. Lunch M-F 11:30-4:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4:30-11, Sun 4:30-10. Reservations: Recommended. SUSHI HOUSE: 830 E Ogden Ave, Westmont.
630 920-8948. Sushi, sashimi and other Japanese fare. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Cracker Roll. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Carryout, catering, delivery, private parties, kids’ menu, sushi bar, beer & wine. M-F 11:30-10, Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 950 Warren St, Downers Grove, 630 968-0088; 1107 Lake St, Oak Park, 708 660-8899; and 281 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630 221-8986. SUZETTE’S: CREPERIE: 211 W Front St, Wheaton. 630 462-0898. Crêperie, pâtisserie, boulangerie, French country bistro and wine bar in a casual setting. Capacity: 88. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Beef bourguignon crêpe and Suzette’s benedict. Entrée prices: $13-$40. Extras: Wine bar, bakery, carry-out, full bar, outdoor dining, private parties, boutique weddings, occasional live music. Pâtisserie open at 7 am, M-Sat, Sun brunch 11-2, afternoon tea T-Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm. Breakfast T-Sat 7-11 am, Sun 8-11 am; Lunch T-Sat 11-4; Dinner T-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended.
Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs
VIE: 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-2082.
Seasonal, contemporary American à la carte menu with European influences in an elegant atmosphere. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi. Entrée prices: $26-$46. Extras: Bar, new lounge space, gluten-free and vegetarian options, monthly Sunday suppers. M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10. Reservations: Yes. YORK TAVERN: 3702 York Rd, Oak Brook. 630 323-5090. The oldest, continuously operating restaurant in DuPage County, restored and updated in 2006, serving burgers and American fare. Capacity: 60. Yrs in bus: 172. Chef’s Choice: Burgers. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Carry-out, bar. M-F 11-1 am, Sat 11-2 am, Sun noon-10. Reservations: No.
483 Spring Road www.robertosristorante.com
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Elmhurst
630.279.8486
Mon - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm • Fri 11 am - midnight • Sat 4 pm - midnight • Sun 2 - 10 pm
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THE WOMEN’S BOARD AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY recently hosted the 36th annual Whirl at Brookfield Zoo with more than 620 guests in attendance. The fundraiser, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Women’s Board, raised more than $1.2 million. Proceeds will support the Chicago Zoological Society’s conservation
Gala Chairs David and Betsy Goltermann of Glen Ellyn
Joseph Ahern of Barrington, Whirl Emcee and ABC 7 News Anchor Judy Hsu of Hinsdale, and Kathleen Amatangelo of Barrington
John Templeton and Women’s Board Member Elisa Templeton of Oak Brook
Sandy and Wally Becky of Wheaton
Photo courtesy of Bill Richert & Shannon Burke
Photo courtesy of Kelly Tone
Michael and Romana Malinowski of Hinsdale
Chicago Zoological Society President and CEO Dr. Stuart D. Strahl, Women’s Board President Sasha Gerritson, 2017 Whirl Co-Chair Stephanie Bryan Kangas of Glen Ellyn, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees John Grube of Hinsdale
and education programs.
Photo courtesy of John Reilly Photography
Frederick and Pris Meyers of Hinsdale and Ann Grube and Chicago Zoological Society Chairman of the Board of Jim of Trustees John Grube of Hinsdale with Columbus Sc hu Zoo animal care staff (at far left lz and far right)
Photo courtesy of John Reilly Photography
co
sy
Photo courtesy of John Reilly Photography
o ot Ph ur te
animals at Brookfield Zoo, as well as the
Elizabeth Dziedzic, Susan Draddy and Seema Kathuria, all of Hinsdale
Shon Lowe of Carol Stream, Theresa Montgomery of Bartlett and Stephanie Ortiz of Bartlett 2017 Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala Committee MORE THAN $1.1 MILLION WAS RAISED for Alzheimer’s research, care and support programs as the Alzheimer’s Association recently marked the 30th anniversary of the Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala at the Chicago Hilton. Attended by more than 800 guests, this year’s theme, “The Big Picture,” was a reflection of the progress made over the course of the three decades since the event was founded, as well as a look forward to the work still left to be done to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease.
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Photos courtesy of UCCA
Charitable Events of Note Photo courtesy of Kelly Tone
SCENE&SEEN
RAISED for the United Community Concerns
Photos courtesy of Edward-Elmhurst Health
Photos courtesy of UCCA
Photo courtesy of Kelly Tone
NEARLY $16,000 WAS
Meghan Moreno, executive director of the Edward Foundation
Association at its Taste of the Town: Food for Life event held recently at the Wilder Mansion in Elmhurst. Over 240 guests attended, with money that was raised at the event being used to purchase and provide food for Elmhurst Community School District 205 children and families experiencing
Linda Stoltz, Tom and Betty Bosworth, and Margaret and Rev. Rich Wolf, all of Elmhurst
at its gala event, “Music and the Mind,” held recently attended the event, the purpose of which was to draw attention and resources to mental health awareness and treatment.
Photos courtesy of Greg Inda
Gina Sharp, president & CEO of Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, with Naperville Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis
CYC CEO Scott Merrow of Burr Ridge, Event Chair Dixie Adams Erwin of Hinsdale, Scholarship Winner Maleek Willis, Honorable Kimberly M. Foxx, Board Chair Daniel Feeney and Kate Tillotson
Members of the Metea Valley High School Concert Band: James Sefton, Nikita Varfhney, Arjun Funbarajan and Kristen Carlson Photo courtesy of Pat Jacobs Images
Photo courtesy of Bill Richert & Shannon Burke
LINDEN OAKS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH raised $60,000 at the Hilton Lisle/Naperville. More than 300 people
Roger Simon of Evanston, Laura Book of Lombard and Sue Holler of Elmhurst
Photo courtesy of John Reilly Photography
Don Williams, Cindy Peterson and Alyssa Williams, all of Elmhurst
difficult times.
MORE THAN 350 GUESTS attended the Chicago Youth Centers recent Believe in Kids Dinner: Above & Beyond, sponsored by Wintrust at The Standard Club. The fundraiser brought in $470,000 for Chicago’s largest private youth organization. Ninety percent of every dollar donated to the Believe in Kids Dinner goes to direct services that empower youth to achieve upward mobility and succeed in whatever they do.
Rebecca and Tom Vander Veen of Elmhurst
Board Chair Daniel Feeney and Honorary Chair Ed Wehmer Lurie NICU nurses Janette Bell of Frankfurt and Colleen Whalen of Western Springs with their daughters Sophia and Quinn THE JACKSON CHANCE FOUNDATION, a Chicago nonprofit that provides a critical benefit for babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital by removing the burden of parking fees for families, recently hosted its fourth annual Thanks a Whole Brunch event at Chuck’s: A Kerry Simon Kitchen. The event honored caretakers (nurses, doctors, therapists) who have helped critically ill babies. About 50 people gathered to reunite NICU alums with their caregivers.
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Last Word
By Michele Weldon
Vacations for the Indoorsy Type The great outdoors may just be nature’s way of promoting spa visits and luxury hotel stays
M
y friend Robyn recently described her weekend getaway of kayaking with a group of friends from the western suburbs. They are members of an organized group who regularly sign up for days of hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, canoeing and everything else you see in the commercials for getaways in Michigan, Colorado and California that involve backpacks, gear and whatever else they sell at REI in Oak Brook. I go there for the sunglasses. Robyn explained she was in upper Michigan and it was raining. The water temperature was — well, let’s just say it was below normal tolerance for cold. Everything was fine until her trip companion capsized her kayak and was scrambling in the water to survive. Robyn grabbed her by the life vest and pulled her onto her kayak. Then they all celebrated by having spiked smoothies by the fire back at camp. Robyn conveyed this horrifying story smiling. It sounds awful. Not the savingher-friend’s-life part of the narrative, but the freezing water, the rain, the kayak, the tent, the hiking, the camp fire. No thank you. I know many people who love this sort of experience, but I prefer warm beds and beautiful views from balconies. And wine in glasses delivered by waiters. I will sit through all your gorgeous photos taken from the sides of mountains or the tops of peaks and glaciers, but I will not want to be in those selfies or group photos where you are huddled together for warmth in the dark and the cold after eating from cans. Maybe it is because I read Lord of The Flies as a kid and watched Deliverance in my formative years. Some nature trips do not end well.
“In 2016, 662 million vacation days were left unused, four million days more than 2015. Mine are in there.”
Every July and August I listen to friends and family talk about their dream getaways. And I have come to believe the types of desirable vacations are split into two groups. Some want to be outdoors, visiting national parks and getting away from it all — sleeping outside, protecting themselves from bears, watching the stars. Others, like me, want to limit the outdoors. They travel to other countries to explore different cultures, visit restaurants and cathedrals, and stay in hotels with warm showers and bathrobes with embroidered crests. While I love beautiful outdoor views, breathing in the fresh air, and visiting the beach, mountains, forests and canyons, I then want to be able to drive back to a comfortable hotel and use a restroom that is not portable. It is not that I am spoiled or elitist, it’s just that as a woman of the 21st century, I want to salute the progress we have made in the past 100 years and not revert back to the habits of pioneers who lived way before then and had no other choice. And by “before then,” I mean before there were 800-count cotton sheets, lavender-scented down pillows and room service. This is not about money, either. You can likely spend more on a camping trip than on a week in an urban Airbnb. I once bought shorts at an outlet for outdoor recreation equipment that cost twice what I would spend at a department store. They did have a lot of pockets. And they dried super fast — good to know just in case I might spill a Diet Coke.
I like adventure and I like exercise. I can swim with the fishes, climb hills, roller skate, hike and bike and take in the vistas. But those are side trips that are just a slice of the vacation, not the whole thing. The five-mile hike would be a precursor to the lunch buffet and wine-tasting at the ranch or spa. Right before the hot-stone massage. I work hard and I like to relax on my vacations. Putting in effort to survive — and possibly meeting my demise in a capsized kayak — does not seem like a getaway to me. My work life is deadline-driven and I am charged with producing tangible content in specific time frames that I can’t fudge or fake. This makes me stressed. According to new research from Project: Time Off, only 44 percent of working women use their time off, and 74 percent of women say they are stressed at work, while only 67 percent of men say the same. Americans who work took an average of 16.8 days of vacation in 2016. I must say that somebody is taking way more time off than I am, since I took one week away from work last year. In 2016, 662 million vacation days were left unused, four million days more than 2015. Mine are in there. I will take a week off this summer and I will enjoy myself. I will not do anything that remotely resembles what my friend Robyn calls fun. I will sleep late, roll over on sweetsmelling ironed sheets and call room service before I hike to the spa downstairs for a mud treatment. And it will be bliss. n
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