Our patients never stop showing us the resilience and determination of the human spirit. That’s why our team of specialists works closely together to take on the toughest cancers with personalized cancer care and treatment support.
The AdventHealth Cancer Institute Hinsdale is the centerpiece of our care with all services in one easy to navigate place, with a friendly, healing environment. We offer the latest treatment options in radiation oncology, medical oncology and hematology services.
With leading-edge technology in our hands and compassion in our hearts, we’re moving cancer care forward in the western suburbs.
To find a cancer specialist or to schedule a cancer screening, call 855-206-1444 or visit ChicagolandCancerExperts.com
With every new listing, Trish strategizes with her sellers to discover each home’s unique features. This has been one of the things that sets her apart from other agents. As a WESTERN SPRINGS RESIDENT, she knows how to paint a picture for buyers as to what it REALLY means to live in our town.
I’m happy to provide you with a free estimate of your home’s value that can help if you’re planning to list your house for sale or curious if it’s time to drop your mortgage insurance.
Interested in tracking real estate market activity? There are a few ways to go about it. I can customize your set up to what fits your routine best so you can be as knowledgeable as possible about the local market.
Go to lindseypaulus.com and click “recommended vendors”, or text me at 708-926-5034 I’ll send you trusted resources for any project – all collected from clients’ preferred painters, contractors and plumbers, etc.
I can connect you with resources for investing in a home warranty to decrease some of the surprise costs of home ownership
The hidden inventory! You may or may not have heard of it, but it really exists. If you want to see EVERYTHING on the MLS, including this “secret” stash of homes, connect with me and I will send them all to you.
Stay current on local real estate trends and stats. Click on the “neighborhoods” section of lindseypaulus.com for live graphs of average sale price and market time, and average list price to sale price ratio.
Thinking of moving in the next 1-3 years but confused how it will happen? Let’s talk. Knowledge is power! Discussing what needs to be done and developing a plan will reduce your stress
If you’re planning to do some remodeling or painting before you sell, I can advise you on which changes may bring you the most money down the road.
Home maintenance and improvement is a never-ending, often expensive endeavor. I can provide a second opinion on what’s best to prioritize.
If you haven’t appealed your taxes lately, you are probably missing out on some savings I can send you a report to let you know if there’s potential to have them reduced.
(even if you’re not ready to sell but especially if you are) at absolutely no cost to you.
We are proud to be the #1 brokerage firm in Hinsdale, La Grange, La Grange Park and Western Springs.
Is your child working through big feelings? Picky eating? Sensory overload? The team at Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies is no stranger to the varying challenges and disabilities families face when it comes to developmental skills.
Having served children in the western suburbs for nearly 30 years, Hummingbird owner Christina Scalise-Morrissey saw an increasing need for a children’s academy. “At Hummingbird Children’s Academy, our therapist-led lessons and activities are geared towards children's social-emotional development,” said ScaliseMorrissey.
Today, Hummingbird offers the most comprehensive pediatric therapy academy in the area for children of ALL developmental stages. Hummingbird Academy is for kids ages 2-7, with locations in Westmont and Woodridge.
Hummingbird Academy provides children with a small group, therapeutic and educational experience. Children learn critical skills such as relationship building, perseverance and problem solving. Kids love the sensory gyms where they strengthen their play and gross motor skills.
"My son's confidence has grown from an anxious and scared little kid to a kid who tries and tries again, even when it is hard,” said Liz Hoobler of LaGrange Park. “I will never be able to say thank you enough to everyone involved in his care at Hummingbird."
Are you interested in learning more about Hummingbird Academy's summer or school-year programs? RSVP for the Open House on February 15th or visit HummingbirdPediatricTher apies.com
The new year is upon us, and with calendars and itineraries filled with events and activities galore to round out the latter half of 2022, I’m sure many of our readers can scarcely believe it. January is a month synonymous with new year’s resolutions, and perhaps none are more common than rededication to exercise or personal conditioning. For the second straight year, our contributing writer Tracy Boyd sat down with four fitness enthusiasts in Western Springs and La Grange to help you chart out your exercise goals for 2023. You’ll notice Gina Kopczynski of La Grange, who teaches at CorePower Yoga in La Grange and Hinsdale, on our cover. Gina is full of energy and passion for yoga, and will certainly motivate our readers as they embark on fulfilling their resolutions in 2023.
Health is another subject that is always top of mind at the start of the year, so we thought January would be an ideal month to visit with Adam Maycock, CEO of AdventHealth Hinsdale and La Grange, our community hospitals. Contributing writer Ann Potter and I met Adam at his office on the top floor of AdventHealth Hinsdale, and we walked away thoroughly impressed with his poise and demeanor. Adam was extremely gracious and complimentary of the physicians, nurses and support staff that comprise both hospitals. He looks forward to AdventHealth’s new partnership with the University of Chicago, which you can learn more about in digesting Ann’s interview in this issue.
January also marks our annual wedding section, and this year, we shine a spotlight on the mothers of the bride and groom. Our fashion writer Lynn Taylor Schwaab has compiled a wedding fashion spread as well, which you can view on p. 43.
This region is filled with non-profit
organizations, all of which require funding to support their sundry purposes. The Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS) is a fixture in the western suburbs, serving as an animal shelter for Western Springs, La Grange and surrounding communities. After moving into its new Tuthill Family Pet Rescue & Resource Center in the old Robert Crown Center building in 2018, a number of the HHS’s local donors presumed the organization was flourishing financially. So when the humane society launched its SOS (save our shelter) campaign this past fall, many community members were surprised to learn that the shelter was on life-support. I recently had the chance to interview executive director Jacki Rossi and board treasurer JoAnn McGuinness to see how the SOS campaign is progressing. Suffice it to say that the HHS has been thrilled with the outpouring of support it has received from the community thus far.
Last but not least, I would like to continue to extend our gratitude to both new and returning advertisers for their contributions. If you enjoy reading the magazine each month, please consider signing up for a Club Hillgrove membership. For just $99 per year, club membership earns you a digital card granting access to exclusive discounts at local businesses such as Luxxe Honor, Whisper Me Home and TATES Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Shop. These supplementary revenues also support our mission to circulate the magazine across all of Western Springs, La Grange and Harding Woods.
Enjoy this issue,
Mike Ellis Editor & Publisher
In his first few months as the new Park Junior High School principal, Jerome Green invited each of the 685 students to have lunch with him. This was important to Green, since he believes the key to his success is building strong relationships with students and staff.
“Getting to know people is what makes me tick,” Green said. “We have very energetic, very bright students. During our smallgroup lunches, I hope the students see that I can be as goofy as they can be, but I also bring them back to focus on what we need to accomplish together.”
Green applied for an opening in District 102 six years ago. That opportunity didn’t work out, but he didn’t forget superintendent Dr. Kyle Schumacher.
Green’s path to principal has been a winding one. He grew up on the South Side of Chicago, and still lives there. Green graduated from Chicago-Kent College of Law, and worked as an attorney for several years, followed by community development.
“I was very lucky to grow up seeing very bright people doing great things in my community,” he said. “They all had a very sound educational background. I knew I wanted to help create those opportunities for students to be the best they can be.”
In 2000, Green completed an education certification program, and landed his first job as a fifth-grade teacher on Chicago’s South Side.
“I knew I made the right switch!” he said.
Green said he looks forward to a long future at Park.
“We have a very veteran staff here,” he said. “It’s my job to motivate them to continue to grow and change so we can serve our community better.”
What do you do when you’re away from work? I enjoy running along the lake and playing billiards. And for a long time, I was into table tennis—I love it! I also regularly support and help my church in Chicago’s Woodlawn community. Are you a Chicago sports fan? I’m a big Chicago Bears fan. We had a “Bear-down” day at the start of the school-year. Staff and students were encouraged to wear Bears gear, but we did allow other teams—even Packers! I enjoy following the White Sox and Bulls too. What do you like about the Park Junior High neighborhood? When I started last summer, I enjoyed walking the community. I discovered the friendliness of the people. I love watching people work on their houses and live their lives. I am so proud to be part of this community now. n
In the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, Adam Maycock did not shy away from becoming the president and CEO of AdventHealth Hinsdale and La Grange. Instead, he saw it as an opportunity. He credits the strong leadership team, best-inclass medical staff and support personnel for helping him navigate effectively during an uncertain time.
Maycock was familiar with the hospitals. He has been an employee of the AdventHealth hospital system for almost 20 years. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as the chief operating officer of Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals for three years.
As the leader of two community hospitals, Maycock says his relationships with community leaders and local organizations is a big focus. Priorities also include expansion of oncology specialties and maintaining staff during the nationwide hospital personnel shortage.
Maycock is the son of a preacher. He has a strong commitment to the Seventhday Adventist denomination that drives his decisions, and plays an important role in his hospital leadership.
Ann Potter: You started as CEO in July 2020 in the middle of the pandemic. How are things going for you?
Adam Maycock: The industry had been
evolving and changing quite a bit, even before the pandemic, and it’s even more so now. As of Jan. 1, we joined a new partnership with the University of Chicago Medicine. This will give us access to academic medicine here in our suburban community. We have two strong hospitals here, but now we can leverage that with the strength of University of Chicago to take it up another notch.
Potter: What does a day in the life as CEO look like for you?
Maycock: I’ve been leaning into the community side of my role as CEO. We want to have strong relationships with village leadership in La Grange, Hinsdale and surrounding communities. I’m a board member with the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and our two hospital foundations. I want to tell our story in the community, and be the face of our hospitals. We have some of the best results comparatively with any hospital in the suburbs or the city. People want to live in a community with a strong hospital. I want to tell that story, so families, providers and staff want to be a part of this community.
Potter: What was it like taking this position in the middle of a pandemic?
Maycock: It was a unique opportunity to provide continuity and leadership. There is no
Continued from page 23
playbook for how to run a hospital during a pandemic. The thing that made it possible is our dynamic team. There was a fabulous team of staff physicians and a strong executive team that I work with every day. They were focused and committed to the unknown—and I was too.
Potter: What makes you a good fit for these two medical centers?
Maycock: I am committed to our mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ. This is something I take very personally. That statement aligns with my personal mission statement. I love people. I grew up in a pastor’s home. I’ve had people say to me, “I trust you,” and that means a lot to me.
Potter: What is something you’re proud of happening in the hospitals today?
Maycock: I’m proud of our leadership team. Through all the industry changes [and] staffing challenges across the country, our leaders have led with such resilience and purpose. I’m proud of the shift we’re making towards physician and staff wellbeing. Coming out of a pandemic, as an organization, we are making sure people know it’s okay not to be okay. We’re creating a safe space for them to recover. We want the staff to feel whole.
Potter: Is there one program expansion that you are particularly proud of?
Maycock: Our La Grange campus opened the Center for Advanced Joint Replacement in May 2020. It’s had phenomenal success. They replaced more than 2,000 joints in 2022 alone. I don’t want to forget to also share the progress of renovation of our Hinsdale NICU. We have the best women’s and children’s programs around, and over the next year, we will make significant progress in updating our NICU.
Potter: Nationally, staffing is one of the biggest challenges hospitals face today. How are you handling it?
Maycock: We’ve weathered that storm with agency support. We’re still trying to build back our staffing. It’s one of our primary focuses. The cost of doing business has increased dramatically. We’re making
Adam Maycockintentional investments through different benefit packages. As staff shares concerns, we’re trying to pivot and make those adjustments to make this a great place to work.
Potter: How would you describe the doctors and nurses at your hospitals?
Maycock: World-class is the first thing that comes to mind. Our medical staff is full of truly outstanding physicians in their specialties. We are blessed to have two campuses, which allow us to have a broad range of services that most community hospitals don’t have. We have that higher level of care, whether it be neurosciences, oncology or cardiac care. Our nurses are the gold-standard as well. They continue to educate themselves to stay at the forefront of what are new and best practices.
Potter: Tell me about other support staff and why they are so important.
Maycock: We could sit here for hours on this topic. We can’t do it alone. As a faithbased organization, our spiritual care team is there to bridge the gap between the physical and emotional with the spiritual component. We believe as a system, there is an interrelationship between the healing experience of mind, body and spirit. The folks that clean the hospital, deliver the food—we cannot do it without them. Those team members are so important, but tend to not get as much credit as they deserve.
Potter: Where did you grow up?
Maycock: I was born in Tennessee, and
grew up in Alabama. Since my father was a pastor, we moved around a little bit.
Potter: Where did you attend college?
Maycock: I went to Oakwood University. It’s a historically-black Seventh-day Adventist university in Alabama. I earned a marketing degree there and moved to Orlando, Fla. Then, I earned an MBA from Rollins College, Crummer Graduate School of Business.
Potter: Have you always worked in healthcare?
Maycock: Yes; healthcare found me. I had a good opportunity to start my career in market research with AdventHealth, and it just took off from there. This is my 20th year in healthcare.
Potter: How did you make your way to the Chicago area?
Maycock: Six years ago, my wife Khadja and I were living in Orlando, and both wanted something different. Within AdventHealth, I expressed interest in finding a new position outside of Florida. We came to visit this area, and immediately felt connected to it. Being a southern boy, I love the midwestern hospitality: the friendliness of people in grocery stores, interacting in restaurants. We’ve come to really enjoy the community, and [become] a part of it.
Potter: You and Khadja have three daughters, ages 4, 6 and 8. What do you like to do as a family?
Maycock: We love to be outside, go for bike rides and take walks at forest preserves. We enjoy being active.
Potter: What does the future hold for you at AdventHealth?
Maycock: This opportunity is something I don’t take for granted. Hinsdale Hospital is a legacy Adventist facility—it’s more than 120 years old. And La Grange has a rich history of serving the community for over 60 years. The hospital system was started by the Adventist church, and that is something I take a lot of pride in. There’s a lot of change happening in healthcare, but the industry has a bright future that’s focused on creating good outcomes for people. There are a lot of good things I’ve yet to accomplish and be a part of here. n
World-class is the first thing that comes to mind. Our medical staff is full of truly outstanding physicians in their specialties. ”
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Appearance and reality are often starkly contrasted. Several of the first Roman emperors—then the most powerful men on earth— were terrified of thunderstorms. What we see presented on television or showcased at a formal event is often not as glamorous or picturesque as it appears.
The challenge is often finding a balance between showing strength and betraying weakness.
When the Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS) moved into its new home in the former Robert Crown Center building at the end of Salt Creek Lane in late 2018, the west suburban animal shelter seemed to be
thriving. The more spacious facility allowed the HHS to adopt out substantially more animals than its previous site on Elm Street near downtown Hinsdale, while serving as a significant aesthetic upgrade.
But when the humane society announced its “save our shelter” (SOS) campaign back in October, it immediately became clear that appearances differed from reality.
Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, the HHS was founded in 1953 by six women who sought a community refuge for stray animals. The society was based near the downtown area until it relocated to its current facility, the Tuthill Family Pet Rescue & Resource Center, in 2018.
In addition to supplying animal adoptions and providing medical services to animals, the HHS also offers community programs, such as its humane education program, which is open to kids between 5 and 18 years old, teaching them how to be good pet owners and to treat pets with kindness and empathy.
Despite its name as the “Hinsdale” Humane Society, the organization serves a much wider west suburban area, stretching to Elmhurst to the north, Brookfield to the east and Westmont to the west. Twelve area police departments convey stray animals to the pet rescue and resource center, while
Continued from page 29
other departments are on a wait-list to do so. According to executive director Jacki Rossi, more adopters come to the humane society from Chicago than any other place.
In 2022, the HHS eclipsed its adoption goal of 1,600 animals—predominantly cats and dogs, but also including roughly 70 critter adoptions, comprising rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and the like.
“We cast a wider net with respect to the adoptions that we do,” HHS board treasurer JoAnn McGuinness said. “We need to do the same thing for our donor-base. We have always been reliant on donations, and always will be here.”
At its previous facility, the society could only service about 1,000 adoptions, so with adoptions up more than 50 percent since moving, many may wonder how the organization has fallen on hard times. The short and long answer is the Coronavirus pandemic. During the lockdown in 2020, the society’s then new facility was forced to close to the public.
“So many people were used to just stopping in and looking at our animals, and bringing their kids by, and coming in for events,” McGuinness said.
Spays and neuters were also not regarded as essential services during the pandemic, which, according to an HHS release, led to an estimated 3 million surgeries not occurring. Accordingly, McGuinness said “litters of puppies and kittens show up every day,” which has strained the society’s services and
increased costs.
“HHS has been over-capacity for months, and is relying on foster homes to help with the overflow,” director of marketing Robin Carroll said in the release.
The pandemic response also fueled inflation, which has raised the cost of virtually everything across the United States. Conversely, donations to the humane society—like many non-profit organizations—have been declining.
At the same time, while the new pet rescue and resource center has allowed the HHS to offer more adoptions, its location is less centralized.
“We’re out of sight, out of mind now in Hinsdale,” McGuinness said. “We were in an in-town location before.”
The society also has to contend with a deceiving and fallacious association between its “Hinsdale” title and its fiscal health.
“We’re battling this assumption that [because] we’re the ‘Hinsdale Humane Society,’ people assume that because we’re in a very wealthy Zip code, we must have a lot of money,” McGuinness said. “And we are no different than other non-for-profits or other animal shelters that are in a crisis right now.”
Rossi said even donors were not aware of the troubles plaguing the organization.
“During donor outreach in the last few months, it became so evident that we’ve lost that connection with the community,” she said.
This convergence of factors prompted the HHS to initiate its SOS campaign on Oct. 18.
“We realized that we needed to get that message out, because we needed people to know that we needed the help,” McGuinness said.
The campaign has been quite successful initially, as a bevy of individuals and businesses responded with both monetary and service donations.
“Whatever they can give, they’re wanting to help,” Carroll said of adopters. … “There’s so many deeply-rooted connections for us that are coming up now.”
When Hillgrove Avenue visited the pet rescue and resource center, Davey Tree was providing tree removal services.
Rossi said it’s been “amazing to see the community step up.”
“It has been overwhelmingly positive to watch the community rally behind us, but we’re in a constant battle to keep on getting that message out,” she said.
While response to the “SOS” has been positive to this point, McGuinness said the HHS is not out of the proverbial woods just yet.
“The community has stepped up, but we still have a lot of work to do, and we still have a lot more people to reach,” she said.
It costs the HHS approximately $1,500 per animal to operate the pet rescue and resource center, but adoption fees are only about $300 per animal (higher for dogs, and lower for cats). Accordingly, McGuinness said adoption fees alone will never be able to fund facility costs.
“We need the community to continue to support us here if we’re going to continue to save 1,600 animals a year,” she said.
McGuinness said “no donation is too small,” and encouraged local residents to visit the HHS website to explore upcoming events.
“There are a lot of family-friendly events, from cat cafes to puppy play-parties to goat yoga,” she said.
Rossi invites community members to come and visit the shelter.
“The education piece is critical in the community,” she said. “We welcome anyone to come in anytime.” n
For more information about the Hinsdale Humane Society, visit www. hinsdalehumanesociety.org.
Perhaps the most complimentary thing that can be said about Lyons Township shooting guard Ally Cesarini comes from her club coach Jerald Davis.
He calls her a chameleon.
“She easily fits in, and she can defend and rebound; she can shoot from the perimeter, and she can attack the basket,” said Davis, a Chicago Hoops Express coach. “She blends in and takes the game as it comes to her. I think the best thing is that she is a versatile player.”
Now pair that assessment with that of Cesarini’s high-school coach Meghan Hutchens.
“Ally was an outstanding leader from the get-go, which we knew,” Hutchens said. “It’s been fun to see her grow, and take her athletic
ability and be a leader by example—a vocal leader—on and off the floor for us.”
LT went 28-4 a year ago and 12-0 in the tough West Suburban Silver, en route to an IHSA class 4A sectional final. Cesarini was a team captain, a role she’ll fill once again this season. But that’s just part of the story; the numbers bear out that success.
Cesarini started every game for the Lions, and shot 53.1 percent from two-point range, 28 percent from beyond the three-point arc and 65 percent from the free-throw line. She averaged 8.8 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2.4 steals per game.
Though there were enough highlights to fill an entire reel, what was the one that stood out most for Cesarini?
“I think honestly beating Fremd,” she said
of her team’s 47-39 victory over the Vikings on Dec. 4, 2021 at that school’s prestigious Chicagoland Invitational Showcase. “Nobody expected us to beat them, and that kind of triggered our motivation.”
Cesarini has picked up where she left off last year, both as a player and a leader. She is a member of LT’s athlete leadership program, and while she’s working on honing her skills as a rebounder and a defender, she’s adding more scoring to her repertoire.
In addition to playing for Davis and Chicago Hoops Express, she said the key to her off-season improvement was simple: focus.
“In winter, it’s hard to find a gym to go to consistently, so I would definitely go [to parks a lot] and shoot around when I could,”
Cesarini said. “Most of the time, I had a lot of tournaments for travel ball, and I kind of focused on that. Normally, [in] travel, I don’t necessarily think about winning the games—I think about getting better. For high school, though, that’s where I focus in.”
All that culminated in the next big chapter in her life: her commitment to Lewis University at the start of this school-year. Lewis is led by former Mother McAuley coach Keisha Newell, and there will be a familiar face for Cesarini on next year’s team: former Lyons star Lily Courier, a junior at Lewis this season. Cesarini played with Courier when she was a freshman and the latter was a senior.
What stood out about Lewis, a Division II school in Romeoville?
“I’d say the coaches,” Cesarini said. “The coaching staff is a really big factor, and I got a chance to play with the team. I felt very comfortable; I felt great being out there. Also, I liked that it was close to home, and my family and friends can come watch me play.”
Cesarini received considerable help in the recruiting process from Hutchens and assistant coach Missy Mitidiero. Together, they assembled an e-mail campaign targeting about 50 collegiate Division I and II schools. They included highlight videos, and according to Hutchens, “we got a lot of great responses.”
Lewis is the perfect fit for Cesarini, she said, for the simple fact that she is going to be able to be impactful immediately.
“She could really pinpoint things she likes in each of the schools, but Lewis and Keisha’s personality really stood out to her,” Hutchens said. “Maybe it was having Lily there as well, but I think it was more her ability to fit in right away.”
Davis agreed.
“She is long-limbed and very, very athletic, and I think that D2 puts her in a favorable situation, because the athletes are a little smaller, but not less skilled,” he said. “Ally is kind of a reactionary player. She uses her athleticism well. It’s hard to imagine a situation she wouldn’t be able to compete in.”
But first, there is the matter of Cesarini’s final LT season, where younger girls will be watching her.
“I think it’s important for them to know their potential and their limits,” she said in encouraging young athletes. “Knowing where you are at in your game is very important. It’s just being honest with yourself.” n
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As we embrace the post-holidays reset, Hillgrove Avenue celebrates a new chapter of fitness. Our second annual fitness profiles reveal that no matter what you do, whether you’re a lifelong fitness-junkie or a late adopter, a teacher-turned-instructor or a mom-turned-athlete, it’s how you move. We discovered that everyone is inspired by others as much as by self-care, and 90’s hip-hop reigns supreme as a playlist winner.
Tracy Boyd: You were certified as a yoga instructor on your 40th birthday. What class drew you to CorePower, as a client, then teacher?
Gina Kopczynski: Yoga sculpt—it’s a great way to start with yoga. It’s like the gateway drug to yoga, especially if people have a feeling that yoga is boring. You’ll find students who want to try it, because it’s weights, cardio, squats. All of a sudden, they come back and say, “I really enjoyed that yoga portion, and I want to try more of that.” That’s what happened with me!
Tracy: Yoga Sculpt is very beat-driven. How does music play a role in your teaching?
Gina: It’s choreographed to the beat, which makes it so energizing. When everyone is in-sync to the music, it’s really motivating. Everyone is doing it on their own level, but they’re doing it together. Music is everything to me, and I love spending time putting together my playlists.
Tracy: What songs are favorites on your playlist?
Gina: I have to say, music today just isn’t like it was in early 2000s and the ‘90s. Even when you go to a football game, they play Pitbull songs to pump everyone up. I try to find one of those songs, but a remix to make it a little surprising and current. I also love to pepper in a good collaboration, like the new version of “Tiny Dancer.”
Tracy: What motivates you as an instructor?
Gina: I love the community behind group fitness. I’m a connector, and I love to motivate people to do their best. It’s amazing the notes I’ll get, about how yoga helped someone get through a divorce or a death in their family. Yoga touches people in so many ways, and helps people get through tough times. Not many people can say that they get to touch people like that, so that’s pretty special.
Tracy: How do you continue to challenge yourself?
Gina: Yoga is a practice; you’re never meant to master it. Those mantras—the ideas and things that you work on while you’re on the mat—carry with you in life. I wish I had some of them when I was younger. Maybe today you’ll do it, and tomorrow you won’t. It’s taking the ego and putting it aside. Keep trying and falling, because you always learn lessons on the way down—in yoga and in life.
A passionate music-lover, Kepley runs the Lyons Township High School drum-line, and teaches private music lessons out of her home. But it’s the movement behind music that truly drives her practice. She’s fallen in love with the precision of barre, and continues to prioritize thoughtful alignment as the key to deeper fitness.
Tracy: You joined The Dailey Method in La Grange in 2016, and trained to be a teacher within a year. What drew you to that studio?
Angela Kepley: I was always active and got into dance after I moved to the area, but a number of people had recommended Dailey Method to me. Even within a month of the barre classes there, I felt my body change with the focus on core fitness, strength, alignment and safety. I love that people of all ages can do this method, and it’s very systematic. Even though there’s variations in every class, the structure is the same. You’re never going to leave class missing a muscle group.
Tracy: There’s an interesting connection between the two disciplines you teach when it comes to posture.
Angela: As a percussionist, I train students to have proper alignment. You’re not going to get good sound and you’re not going to be able to play advanced techniques if you don’t set your body up to play properly in the first place. There can be a lot of repetitive-motion injuries, and with drums, it’s a lot of back problems if you’ve played for years with rounded spines. The fundamental principles behind Dailey Method are alignment first, then engagement, then movement. If you’re moving without alignment, it’s not safe; and if you’re moving without engagement, it’s not effective.
Tracy: What kind of music is on your playlist?
Angela: Being a musician, I think I approach class a little differently. My playlists, though, are very eclectic. Barre is a little more focused and driven by consistent tempos matched to the exercises. The cycle class at Dailey Method is a bit more fun to plan a playlist for, where I find a good song, and plan to use it to climb or sprint. I love throwbacks and ‘90s hip-hop. Sometimes, though, I put in songs that no one else would think of, like “System of a Down” or an old Primus song I haven’t heard in years. Andy Grammar has a lot of great positive messages too.
Tracy: What is the power behind group fitness that attracts you most?
Angela: It’s the community and how we inspire each other, whether it’s physical or mentally being in that space, and being surrounded by like-minded people who don’t care what size and shape you are, but are all after the common goal of health: growth. It’s what we can do to build each other up.
As a Western Springs resident and mom of three, Eavenson has a good reason to be sporting sneakers on most days. Whether she’s on one of her long, meditative runs around the neighborhood or cheering on the Field Park running club at lunch, her passion is hitting the pavement. She’s encouraged the community to embrace running, and to look good doing it.
Tracy: How did running become your passion?
Katie Galvan Eavenson: My running routine gives me something I can count on. No matter how crazy my day gets, if I can get a few miles in, I know I had a few minutes of calm and focus for myself that day. What I’ve gotten out of it has changed through different stages of my life, but it’s been a constant through the stress of college, different jobs, pregnancies, motherhood, a pandemic, moments of grief and just the regular chaos of family life.
Tracy: You’re an outdoors runner, which must be challenging at times living in the Midwest.
Katie: I very rarely go to the gym to run. I really love running in the sun, but I try even in the cold to push myself. On long runs, I’d tell myself, “You’ve been out here this long; you can keep going.” In college, it’s not like they had great fitness gear. I’d just layer on my sweatshirts!
Tracy: Speaking of gear, you’re a rep for directto-consumer brand ZYIA Active.
Katie: I started three or four years ago. I had the worst running clothes when I started, so I like the incentive of the discounts for new clothes. After I had my kids, the gear got me more excited about going out for runs again, and I’d always get compliments on the clothing. My goal for the people that shop with me is to help them find those pieces that will be some of their favorites—that make them excited to get out and be active, or relax after a long day. I always love hearing that something I helped someone pick out makes them feel great.
Tracy: You were the chair of Field Park Elementary School’s fit family 5K eight years strong, and raised more than $6,000 this year for the Field Park PTO. Tell us about the event, and how it’s made fitness fun for all ages.
Katie: If you make being active a regular, positive part of your kids’ lives when they’re young, they’ll carry that habit and the benefits from it with them as they grow up. My kids go to Field Park Elementary, where I met another mom who was really into fitness, and we were both supporting a running club for the kids at the school. She had an idea about starting a family fun-run event. I’ve been part of it since the beginning, and the past three years, I chaired the event. It’s open to all ages, with medals for all agegroups. I’m not chairing it next year, but it’s near to my heart. I’ll always be a part of it!
Smith knows a thing or two about fitness discipline. The Western Springs resident grew up admiring his father, a bodybuilder who achieved recognition as Mr. Illinois in 1991. A motivational voice and a numbers guy, Smith moved from client to founding teacher at Shred415 Hinsdale, continuing to inspire early morning “shredders” to be the best versions of themselves.
Tracy: You were exposed to training from an early age. How did you push yourself in fitness?
Jim: I always knew that I liked being in shape, all things outside, running and jumping. Exercise was always my happy place, just a part of my daily routine. Fast-forward to living in the city, and my now wife found Shred415 when they first opened in Lincoln Park. There was this amazing instructor, with this positive attitude and a workout like I’ve never had before. It was this atmosphere where everyone in the world was asleep, and I’m up and kicking butt at 5 a.m. It was a feeling like no other.
Tracy: How do you introduce a workout like Shred415 to a new client? What sets it apart most for you?
Jim: In the education world, we call it differentiation. It’s where everyone is working to their own abilities. One of my favorite mantras to shout out when teaching class is, “It’s you versus you.” When you look in the mirror, that’s who you’re competing with, and while you may be motivated by other people, your personal goals should be where you are today and what you strive to do tomorrow. That’s what’s been iconic about Shred to me: to be the best version of yourself without judgment.
Tracy: What music is on your playlist?
Jim: I love that moment when that bass drops, and as soon as it drops, that’s when you cue the big push, the big hill, the burpees—that’s when it’s the best. I’m a metal guy, but I have to play for the group. Eminem is the perfect choice.
Tracy: How do you find balance in your workout?
Jim: I think we’re all getting a bit better at finding balance in our lives. I find yoga to be the most emotionally-cleansing workout, where you just slow your life down and focus on your breathing. I love that it’s about being present in the moment. You get hurt, because you aren’t listening to your body, and it needs time to recharge. So maybe today it’s not another HIIT workout, but yoga.
BY CHERYL BROWNTracy: As a client turned teacher, what’s your advice to get the most from your class?
I think it’s important that you take that hour and enjoy it. It’s good for your soul, so get a little primal with it. Some people take exercise too seriously. It’s supposed to be different every day, and remember, you’re only at your best once in your life.
Francesca gown with sheer-tailored bodice and embellished with handstitched French lace pieces and hand-woven sash, prices upon consultation at Cara Maria Farella in Chicago (caramariafarella.com)
The holiday season tends to be the engagement season too. So brides-to-be, don’t waste time. Start shopping now for your wedding looks.
By Lynn Taylor SchwaabLikely Cher long-sleeved mini dress in white, $328 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
House of CB Tullulah puff-sleeved midi dress in white, $209 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
Cinq À Sept Emerie halter satin midi dress in ivory, $595 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
Cinq À Sept Tamra off-the-shoulder long-sleeved dress in ivory, $495 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
Collins
$4,125
(www.golijune.com)
Why
for just your
day? Brides should stand out at all of their wedding weekend events by wearing white or ivory.Peonie Shortie dress in taffeta with V-neck and Organza double-puffed sleeves, $750 at Goli June Bridal in Chicago (www.golijune.com) silk and duchess satin blazer & Kilda silk and wool blend high-waisted pants, at Goli June Bridal in Chicago
The bridal gown trends this year go from one extreme to the other: feminine with lace or chic and sophisticated. Choose the trend that fits your personality best.
Oleg Cassini removable train mermaid wedding dress in ivory, $1,499 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Sanger fit-and-flare gown in stretch crepe with plunge neck and open back, $2,950 at Goli June Bridal in Chicago (www.golijune.com)
Ava Italian satin gown with sweetheart neckline, A-line skirt and hand-woven crystal and pearl fabric bodice, prices upon consultation at Cara Maria Farella in Chicago (caramariafarella.com)
Roe gown with scoop-neck bodice, low V-back, floral appliques and shoe-string straps, $4,500 at Goli June Bridal in Chicago (www.golijune.com)
Galina Signature sheer corset bodice sheath wedding dress in ivy stone, $1,299 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
DB Studio Charmeuse crossover halter ruched wedding gown in ivory, $329.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
For the mother of the bride or groom, full-length gowns are in with two distinctive styles. Off-the-shoulder or sequin and sheer.
Pisarro Nights Illusion beaded mesh column gown in black, $248 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
Oleg
Oleg Cassini draped lace floor-length dress with marching shawl in petal, $179.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Oleg Cassini velvet off-the-shoulder sheath dress with ruffle in deep blue, $219.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Galina Signature
Charmeuse cowl bridesmaid dress with swag sleeves in Martini Olive, $179.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Amsale Nakai square-neck satin mermaid gown in gunmetal, $290 at Nordstrom in Oak Brook
Galina Signature
Charmeuse tie-neck halter bridesmaid dress in sand, $179.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Celebrate DB
Studio ruched jersey spaghetti-strap bridesmaid dress in juniper, $109.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
Galina Signature Charmeuse strapless A-line bridesmaid dress in cinnamon, $179.95 at David’s Bridal in Lombard
For bridesmaids, the trend continues this year, with attendants wearing different style dresses, but in the same color.
One of the most emotional and cherished events in any mother’s life is when her daughter or son ties the knot. Hillgrove Avenue checked in with two local moms—one a mother of the bride, the other a mother of the groom—to hear their stories and get a few pointers.
By Kate CunninghamMother of the Bride: Colleen Koerner
Date of Wedding: Sept. 16, 2022
Location of Wedding: St. Michael’s Church in Old Town & Rockwell on the River, Chicago
Theme of Wedding: Industrial-Romantic chic
What makes this wedding special to you as the mother of the bride? The wedding was so special to me, because our daughter was so happy! It truly was a dream day. She married her person, the love of her life. And as a parent, there is nothing better than to see that pure joy.
Bride’s gown: Mark Ingram Atelier from Ultimate Bride bridal salon; custom veil by Veiled By ChaCha in Glen Ellyn
Mother of the bride dress: I had my gown custom-made by a very talented friend. The style was inspired by an emerald-green Dior gown worn by Yara Shahidi at the Emmys in 2021. I fell in love the moment I saw it, and knew it was exactly what I wanted for my mother of the bride dress. My version of the dress was an emerald green, tea-length gown that had almost a late-‘50s, early ‘60s vibe to it, and it was everything I had envisioned and more.
Mother of the bride planning duties: While I know that every planning process looks different for everyone, I was so excited and happy to be part of most of the planning, along with my son-in-law’s mother and my daughter and her now husband. They had a vision for their day, and did a lot of research when it came to choosing vendors to make
that happen. They really involved us in the decisions and ideas, and trusted our opinions to make it a team effort. As the mother of the bride, I was so excited to be with my daughter when she found “the dress”—it is such a special memory that we will share forever. She wanted me to be there for other special duties too, such as picking out the invitations, going to the tasting and choosing florals. It was all so much fun!
Mother of the bride day-of duties: We were very lucky to have a day-of coordinator with us on the day of the wedding. It allowed all of us to truly be in the moment, and enjoy every bit of the day.
In what ways did you coordinate with the mother of the groom and his family? Throughout the whole planning process, our daughter and her husband included all of us in the decision-making. It truly was a team effort, and it was so much fun to do it that way—lucky us!
What part of the wedding were you most excited about? Honestly, I was excited about every bit of it. It’s so hard to pick just one part. The mass was beautiful—walking into Rockwell and seeing our vision come to life was amazing, and the reception was so much fun that we didn’t want the night to end.
What part of this wedding was the most emotional for you? The most emotional part for me was when the doors in the back of the church opened, and my daughter and my husband started their walk down the long aisle at St. Michael’s. It truly took my breath away!
What part of the planning process was the most stressful? The last few weeks before the wedding can get a little crazy with everything coming together. Finalizing vendor details, working out the day-of schedule details and keeping track of all of the little things to remember can be overwhelming. Emotions can be all over the board (for everyone involved), but it is all so worth every second of the stress.
Best advice for future mothers of the bride: Have fun! Enjoy every minute of every part of it. The time goes so quickly, and it’s over before you know it. So I repeat, have fun!
Mother of the Groom: Susan Corte
Wedding date: Sept. 10, 2022
Location: The Abbey Resort, Lake Geneva, Wisc.
Theme of the wedding: Dare I say “vows and spotted cows?” The wedding was actually very elegant. My son Scott has a great sense of humor, and wanted to infuse fun into the tone of the wedding. As many know, New Glarus beer is only available in Wisconsin, and one of their most popular beers is Spotted Cow. And yes, Spotted Cow beer was served at the reception and the rehearsal dinner!
Why the wedding was special as the mother of the groom: Scott is our fourth of five children and a twin. It is and was wonderful to see the fun and funny side of him, as well as the serious, sensitive side of him through the entire process of engagement-planning to the wedding ceremony and reception. I loved witnessing the love and respect he has for his fiancé Samantha; I loved seeing the appreciation and consideration he shows, quite naturally, to all people. His dad and I are quite proud of all of our children. They all have special qualities, and I’ve often felt consideration for others is one of Scott’s gifts. It was with pride that we saw him show this quality during the planning process, as well as during the wedding ceremony and reception. I know Samantha sees this as a special quality and gift he has.
Bride’s gown: It was gorgeous—simply Samantha in every sense: white, off-theshoulder, white-petaled applique and flowy— so appropriate for a harbor side, outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour. She looked divine! It was so nice of her to show me her bridal gown before the wedding.
Mother of the groom dress: We all know all eyes are on the bride; however, I feel the mother of the bride, the mother of the groom and all guests want to look their best and most comfortable. The dresses are truly a reflection of their personality. I wore a royal navy, halter-style, flowy, cinched-waist dress. Loved it—not one alteration was needed. I actually bought it at Banana Republic. I felt so good in it. Maybe it was the atmosphere, the happiness and elation that made me felt like I was walking on air.
Mother of the groom planning duties:
From the time they were engaged, I offered that I would help with anything they wanted. I listened to what they wanted and what Samantha’s mom wanted too. I gave suggestions, and just tried to be as helpful as possible. My husband Bob collated, stamped, addressed all of the “save the dates” at our house—what a fun evening of “work” that culminated in pizza, beer and my son-in-law Vince singing “Grow Old With You” on his ukulele. It was also the same song he sang to our daughter Diana some 10 years previous
at their wedding reception. In addition, it was the official start to the serious wedding prep. We helped with guest-lists, hotel arrangements, rehearsal dinner and festivities planning, day-after brunch, and designed and decorated wedding lanterns. I think one of the best contributions was baking “Heavenly Evelyn” cookies with my 92-year-old mother Evelyn, for whom the cookies are named. For each wedding, my mother has baked cookies to be served at the reception. All summer, we baked and froze cookies, bagged and labelled them, and served them as wedding favors. It was truly a labor of love to bake about 400 cookies—and we kept up the tradition.
Day-of duties: By then, everything was done. We dropped off the cookies for favors, and gave the lanterns to the wedding planner. My most important duty was to stay calm and be ready—on time—for photos.
Most exciting part of the wedding: I think it was the planning process, the creativity, planning with our family for hours, days, phone calls at all hours of the day, when we had another idea for the shower, rehearsal or wedding. Being together with family and Samantha’s family, and planning and then seeing the culmination of our work, creativity and ideas was so much of the excitement. While the day is so special, the time before is just as much so.
Most emotional aspect: The twins are our babies. Seeing my son find a girl of his dreams, someone who loves him, seeing him love her, admire her and respect her, is really what parents want for their child. Samantha and her family are so dear to us; we are so blessed to have them in our lives.
Best advice for future mothers of the groom: Listen, be available, help where you can, whenever you can. Offer some suggestions and advice, but respect what the bride and groom desire for themselves. It is their day.— You will enjoy it so much knowing you have contributed in any way that made it more special and less stressful for them. Remember to look—really look—at what is going on that day, so you will have fond memories. Dance, dance, dance—and wear comfortable shoes.
By Tracy Boyd || Photography by Cheryl Brown
There is a green dress that makes Danielle Osborne smile. It adds a burst of joy and a touch of glamour from one scene to another, each time dancing with a different partner.
Osborne jokes that over two months, four women donned the fashionable piece like the sisterhood of the traveling dress. When it’s not making memories, the dress hangs in her La Grange-based second-hand boutique, Closest Closet, where her community impact is well beyond coincidence.
A Burr Ridge resident who attended high school in La Grange, Osborne finds herself back at home as a special education program coordinator at Lyons Township. A mother and a mentor, she strikes a bubbly balance of busy and attentive as she drops in on the resale pop-up turned more permanent storefront. With a background in communications and journalism and a minor in English from the University of Iowa, Osborne has a curious spirit that not only took her abroad, but drew her to create meaningful change.
“I came from a family of educators, so I was interested in exploring (teaching abroad) before settling into a career in advertising,” she said of post-graduate time in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “I loved every minute. I found myself to be adept at narrowing down the needs of the students, and removing barriers to their learning. That time gave me a wider perspective, as I saw how my access to education was a privilege.”
Inspired by the call to educate others in need, Osborne balanced night classes upon her return to advertising. She then moved to Thailand to teach English in 2005, spending ten years helping families to develop professional skills relevant to their agricultural society. Immersed in the daily life around Bangkok, she confronted an unusual form of waste: American clothes strewn across the landscape, from the streets to the beaches. It continued to haunt her.
“Traveling throughout southeast Asia, I was confronted with the devastating effects of fast fashion as a global pollutant,” Osborne said of the remnants of crates deposited and left at port cities without proper distribution systems in place. “I came home and went down a rabbit-hole of statistics, spent hours talking to Goodwill employees and read
article after article about how fast fashion impacts not only the environment, but the ability of the locals to create a marketplace with local goods.”
Osborne again returned to the states with a new perspective, focused on a more sustainable lifestyle and choosing repurposed goods over new purchases herself. Standing in Closest Closet, alongside her former highschool classmate and business partner Steve Tazic, Osborne dons chic sneakers and an
Osborne and Tazic see a potential franchise model in the future. With a digital closet, members have access to a treasure trove of fashion, plus the bonus of a browsing system tailored to a shopper’s size and taste. Osborne herself has curated matches, and e-mailed a member when her “favorite closet” has new inventory, aligning members’ tastes and shopping patterns to keep the credits flowing.
Second-hand fashion, like furnishings, is having a moment. Post-pandemic customers are reevaluating their wardrobes and more importantly, their spending. An appetite for expression on a budget appears to be driving the marketplace, Osborne said.
Fashion is so fluid right now.
It used to be that you had to wear particular styles for school, for work. You don’t have the same parameters anymore.”
“Fashion is so fluid right now,” she said. “It used to be that you had to wear particular styles for school, for work. You don’t have the same parameters anymore. People are willing to experiment with something that’s maybe a little funkier than they would have chosen before, and it’s nice [to] not feel like they’re investing $70 on a skirt they aren’t sure they can pull off.”
RBG sweatshirt. She’s a lifelong educator, and has found a new mission.
Closest Closet started as an idea to create a welcoming space in which one person’s unwanted items become someone else’s treasured finds. The magic of a membership at Closest Closet—available in monthly or annual increments—lies in the cashless shopping experience. Goods are assigned a color-coded value, and may be purchased using credits acquired by dropping off goods—the higher the value of the item, the more credits received. Osborne gleefully recalled her girlfriend’s lightbulb moment, after picked up a hobo bag retailing more than $300 for the equivalent of four items she no longer needed from her own closet.
“You can see it in a new member’s face when they do the first transaction using credits,” she said. “They will take something and start to pull out their wallet, and then it will dawn on them, ‘I don’t have to pay for this.’ It’s literally shopping in a closet.”
Closest Closet’s newly-relaunched website is extending the reach of second-hand, sustainable fashion to other states, where
Closest Closet represents much more than making second-hand shopping fun. For Osborne, it’s about giving back to those that deserve the basic right to seek, shop and find essentials. In addition to shopping vouchers, the team supports Pilllars Commuity Health and BEDS Plus by proactively supplying basics like black pants. As a supporter of the transition program at LT, Osborne has created a safe place for special needs teens to browse and enjoy the magic of that perfect find. The business even pulls clothes with rips, tears and stains to send to a Hillside-based textile recycler. From repurposed hangers to recycled shopping bags, every ounce of the business is focused on impact.
“If I could wave my second-hand wand, I would envision a large space where community members could bring any material goods they aren’t using, so they can be available to someone who needs that particular something,” Osborne said, envisioning a place for children’s toys, clothes and other goods as Closest Closet grows in its vision. “Some of us have too much, and some of us have hardly anything at all. My long-term goal would be that my kids and my grandkids have a thriving healthy planet, and value experiences more than things.” n
Jim Stork, CFP ®, CFA, Principal Western Springs, IL
Jim Stork has spent his entire career analyzing investment opportunities for both institutional and retail investors. He began his investment management career in 1984 with Duff & Phelps. Jim was a senior vice president when he left Duff in 2000 to establish Pinnacle Financial Group.
The most gratifying aspect of working with individuals and couples is helping clients overcome their financial challenges to meet their financial dreams. Whether helping them recover from the emotional and financial shock of losing a spouse, or simply providing clients with the confidence that they are financially ready for retirement, our advice provides peace of mind during some of the most stressful times in anyone’s life.
Jim has been quoted by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, and has appeared on the Nightly Business Report and CNN.
A graduate of the University of Notre Dame (BBA) and the University of Chicago (MBA), Jim has received the certified financial planner (CFP®) and chartered financial analyst (CFA) designations, and is a member of the CFA Institute, the CFA Society of Chicago, the Financial Planning Association (FPA) and the FPA-Illinois.
Jim can be reached at jim@mypinnaclefinancial.com.
Security – Trust – Peace of Mind – Pinnacle. Find out what makes us different!
Ryan Williamson, AIF ®, Principal & Founder
22 W. Calendar Court, 2nd Floor La Grange, IL 60525
Since 2000, Ryan has been providing financial guidance driven by the uniqueness of each of his clients. He has found his true passion in helping them create personalized, long-term financial strategies built around what is distinctly important to them. As priorities and circumstances evolve and change, so must the strategies Ryan uses to keep his clients on the path towards their financial goals. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, Ryan adheres to the Code of Ethics adopted by the CFP® Board to ensure that his practice is run ethically, competently and with full integrity.
Ryan’s experience is in investment research used in developing asset management strategies employed at Horizon Wealth. By focusing equally on fundamental, technical and behavioral analysis, Ryan approaches the investment process in an unbiased, well-rounded manner. Due to his strong belief in this method, Ryan obtained the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) distinction to reinforce this standard of care.
Ryan has believed in giving back to his community since the day he began his practice. From 2009 to 2012, he was the President of the La Grange Business Association, and he currently serves as President on the Board of The Legacy Guild. Ryan is also the author of the book Drafting Your Financial Quarterback: What You Need to Know When Hiring a Financial Planner. Ryan lives in La Grange with his wife Jami and their two children Aidan and Alayna.
Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Horizon Wealth Management, LLC, a registered investment advisor and a separate entity from LPL Financial.
More than 100 members of the La Grange Area Neighbors & Newcomers (LGNN) attended the club’s annual kickoff party at The Elm on Aug. 31.
Ladies socialized in the dining room and at the adjacent bar on the second floor of the restaurant.
The party marked the commencement of LGNN’s 2022-23 season at downtown La Grange’s signature gathering-place.
It was also the first club event for Nichole Veihman and Kelly Walker of La Grange as
president and vice president, respectively.
Veihman and Walker succeeded Sarah Lorenzi of La Grange Park and Jennifer McElroy of La Grange, who served as president and vice president the past two years.
LGNN is the largest women’s social organization in the La Grange area.
For more information about the La Grange Area Neighbors & Newcomers, visit www.lgnewcomers.com.
Hundreds of guests attended the inaugural Home 2 Home (H2H) Project Homecoming gala at The Drake Oak Brook on Sept. 23.
Relocated from La Grange Country Club to The Drake Oak Brook just weeks before the event, turnout at the gala was still strong, as attendees and sponsors collaborated to raise funds for the local non-profit organization.
Lauren Petty of WMAQ Ch. 5, a Western Springs resident, functioned as emcee for the evening.
All proceeds from the gala support the H2H Project, which transforms apartments for financially-challenged individuals through gently-used household items and furniture throughout the Chicagoland area.
Founded by Janelle Towne of Western Springs in 2017, H2H has conducted more than 140 apartment move-ins and worked with approximately 1,400 volunteers since its inception.
For more information about The Home 2 Home Project, visit www.h2hproject.org.
Ronald McDonald House Charities
More than 200 ladies from Western Springs donned their witches’ garb and biked the streets of Forest Hills during the second annual Western Springs Witches Ride on Oct. 29.
Rebranded the Western Springs ride this year, participation swelled from roughly 100 in 2021 to approximately 225 in 2022.
Ladies gathered outside the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs at Lawn Ave.
and 53rd Street, preparing to set off on a roughly four-mile bicycle ride.
Dozens of kids aligned the streets along the route, eagerly anticipating witches tossing them candy.
After completing their work in Forest Hills, ladies crossed over 47th Street on Central Ave., heading for Burlington Ave. and a post-party at Salerno’s in the downtown business district.
For the second straight year, the ride was organized by Jillian Altenau, Suzanne Reicher and Casey Sparks.
The event raised more than $12,000 to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.
For more information about Ronald McDonald House Charities, visit www. rmhc.org.
PHOTOS BY MIKE ELLIS
Jen Borkowski and Erin McNaughton
Casey Sparks, Jillian Altenau and Suzanne Reicher
Lindsay Dudley and Clarie Will
Mallory Gallant, Lindsay Dulla, Kristine Martin and Gina Fitzpatrick
Kate Dieckmann, Dorothy Schmude, Laura Glosniak, Lisa Easley, Lindsay Brown, Deena Salemi and Kate Ryan
Roughly 200 members of the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club (HJWC) attended the club’s annual benefit reveal night at The Elm on Oct. 11.
Ladies donned floral attire in anticipation of learning the theme and location of the HJWC’s annual benefit—the non-profit organization’s signature event and largest fundraiser.
After concluding their monthly club meeting, attendees strolled into the easternmost room on The Elm’s lower level, where they were introduced to a fantastical foretaste of the “Wonderland” benefit slated for next spring.
“Wonderland” will be held at Untitled Supper Club in the River North neighborhood on April 22 from 7 to 11 p.m.
The 2023 benefit team includes club members Alyssa Doorhy, Ashley Keely, Amanda Mancini, Jennie Patricoski, Nadia Shamsi, Molly Sikora and Chelsea Urban.
Proceeds from the benefit fund a variety of grant applications that the HJWC fulfills to charities across the Chicago metropolitan area.
For more information about the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club, visit www.hjwc.us.
Greetings, reader. Here we are again.
Alas, you have flipped through the entire Hillgrove Avenue Magazine, and made it all the way to the end. I feel grateful to share these last few minutes with you. What do you say you make yourself a hot tea or coffee and get cozy with me?
Last month, we launched our “Ask The Sister Project” series, and I am so excited to answer my first question!
Today’s question came from Kristen, all the way from Portland, Oregon.
She asks, “What natural suggestions do you have for adults managing ADHD during the workday?”
Oh, let me count the ways, Kristen!
Adult ADHD and how to manage it is one of my favorite subjects. I was diagnosed at 40, and have been educating myself on the subject and implementing tools to improve efficiency and productivity on the job ever since.
The hyperactivity component of ADHD is often misunderstood, especially in adult women. It feels like there are too many tabs open in our brains, and our brains are lacking the ability to focus on one tab at a time.
Our beautiful ADHD brains thrive on structure, deadlines and brain breaks, and as many of us know, executive function is not a strength that comes naturally. Rather, it is a skill that must be honed.
These are my tips and tools to help maintain clarity and a sense of calm throughout the workday. Without them, I am left feeling scattered and walking in circles.
The Focus Keeper timer is my go-to app which uses the Pomodoro timer method. There are four long segments of work-time with a small break in between each, and then a longer break after the four sessions are completed. I save all my texts, calls and mindless scrolling for break-time. This is
such an effective tool, whether you have ADHD or not.
Lauren and I like to practice what we call “mom hygge” during those longer breaks. It’s a good way to ensure some much-deserved downtime during busy workdays. Mom hygge is little sips or bursts of momentary joy that offer you feelings of warm and cozy contentment.
The work-life balance struggle is real, which is why mom hygge is so effective. It might be five minutes and look like a cup of tea and a few pages of your favorite book or magazine, or a little walk around the block with Rover. The point is, short breaks are better than none, and your overactive, slightly-impulsive brain will thank you later.
Another way to stay on track is to take advantage of the focus options your phone provides. The DND (do not disturb) option allows you to double down on your work without any interruptions. Interruptions almost always guarantee errors. All you need to do is swipe down and choose your purpose for focus. Full disclosure: this tool annoys family and friends, because they feel like they are being ignored when the phone goes right to voicemail. Guess what?—they are!
The most important thing to remember is that a solid foundation for a productive workday, whether you have ADHD or not, is to start with the basics which are good sleep, mindfulness and daily physical activity.
For more on the importance of sleep and the benefits of good sleep hygiene, check out our recent podcast episode: “218 | Sleep Health and Hygiene with Sleep Specialist Kelly Murray.”
Cozy Conversations can be streamed on Apple and Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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E-mail us at contact@thesisterprojectblog. com, and ask us anything about relationships, entrepreneurship, the cozy life or whatever burning question you might have.
Stay cozy, Michelle
