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One of our most popular features during our first year of publishing was our 25 Community Influencers section, which spanned our October and November 2021 issues. This month, we unveil the first part of our second installment of Community Influencers, recognizing individuals that are making a prominent impact on the Western Springs and La Grange communities. You will notice some of the same faces from last year, as these individuals continue to leave their mark on the region through government service, charitable work and entrepreneurship. But we are also pleased to add a number of new faces to this year’s list, such as Dan and Caitlin Spain of Harding Woods, owners of The Elm—a restaurant that has truly changed the complexion of downtown La Grange and the west suburban restaurant scene at-large in just two years in business. Annie Tandy of Western Springs, owner and founder of Kidlist, graces our cover this month, anchoring the Community Influencers section.
In our monthly Women in Business feature, contributing writer Tracy Boyd met La Grange resident Kerry Farris, owner of Once Again Home Co. During our photoshoot, we had the chance to tour Kerry’s base of operations at her home, and discovered that it is filled with sleek, sustainably-produced towels that you will learn more about in Tracy’s article.
Fire safety is top of mind in La Grange, following the catastrophic fire that ravaged a home in the 200 block of south Ashland Ave. last December. I recently had the chance to watch pioneering life safety consultant Dan Colantuono of La Grange in action as he surveyed a local home in search of prospective hazards. Colantuono recently founded Fireman Dan Life Safety Consulting, and has provided consultations for more than 75 homeowners in Western
Springs, La Grange and surrounding towns.
The annual Wellness House ball is returning to the city for the first time since 2019 later this month. Hinsdale-based Wellness House—with which many of our readers are probably familiar—offers complimentary programs and services to cancer patients and their families. Fundraisers like the ball and annual Walk for Wellness House in the spring enable the non-profit organization to supply its programming free of charge.
Our food writer Robert Damien continued his tour of intriguing west suburban establishments outdoors at York Tavern in Oak Brook. The restaurant, named in honor of the tavern Fullersburg founder Benjamin Fuller constructed on York Road back in the middle of the 19th century, is known across the region for its burgers. The Stanley Cup made several stops at York Tavern—a favorite local eating spot of then-Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville—during the Hawks’ championship runs of the 2010s.
We would like to continue to extend our gratefulness to both new and returning advertisers for their support. 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
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Contributing Writers
Tracy Boyd Sara Heiserman Ann Potter
Fashion & Style
Taylor Schwaab
Kerrie Kennedy
Robert Damien
Gregg Voss
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Cheryl Brown Ian McLeod Carolina Menapace Marcello Rodarte
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cannot imagine a warmer welcome than what she received as the new interim principal at Laidlaw Elementary School in Western Springs. She said the staff, students, parents and community have been very supportive since day one.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity,” Epstein said. “It’s not easy to be the new kid in class, but I feel so connected with everyone already!”
After 17 wonderful years in River Forest District 90, Epstein is excited for this new growth prospect. In District 90, she served as an eighth-grade English teacher for 15 years. Most recently, she served as the district’s summer school principal and as the remote learning coordinator, a leadership role created during the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Being in the classroom was one of the great joys of my life,” Epstein said. “Now I want to share those experiences with other educators to help them grow and learn.”
Epstein was on a hike in Yosemite National Park in July when she learned of the principal opening at Laidlaw. “There was almost no cell service in the park, but somehow, I received three text messages from three separate friends notifying me of the job opportunity,” she said. “It was meant to be. Opportunities of a lifetime come when you least expect them.”
Epstein has been married to her husband Jeremy for 15 years. They reside in Elmhurst with their two children—Mason, 11, and Harper, 8—and their dog Mack, a goldendoodle. The active family enjoys traveling to national parks and Michigan beaches such as Warren Dunes, Petoskey and Charlevoix.
What’s your favorite part about the fall season? We are annual apple-pickers. Our family hasn’t missed a visit to All Seasons Orchard in years. What else do you enjoy with your family? We love to go to the city. We love to venture out of the suburbs and experience culture. And we love dining out. Are you a football fan? Oh, yes! My husband and I are both from Ohio, and we are huge Ohio State Buckeyes fans. Did you attend Ohio State? No, I went to the University of Dayton for my undergraduate degree.
I received my first master’s degree from Concordia University, and just received a second master’s in educational leadership from American College of Education. Do you do anything special for Halloween?
I make chili every year for our neighborhood, and we host a chili party on our driveway while kids are trick-or-treating. Are you going to dress up for Halloween? I haven’t thought about that, but I will. That’s a good growth opportunity for me in a fun way—getting into the school-spirit days! n
Known as the “art coast” of Michigan, Saugatuck has long maintained deep ties with the arts community. Home to the 115acre Ox-Bow School of Art—founded by the School of the Art Institute in 1910—which offers year-round programs in a variety of art disciplines, many artists and creators have chosen to settle in the area, opening galleries, charming inns, film festivals and more.
WHERE TO STAY. Built in 1937, the charming and romantic Wickwood Inn has its own storied history. Once the family home of the mayor of Saugatuck, the Colonial revival house became Saugatuck’s first bed-and-breakfast back in 1981. A decade later, when Silver Palate Cookbook co-author Julee Russo and husband Bill Miller purchased the inn, it became a beloved farm-to-table culinary destination. In 2021, Shea Soucie and Martin Horner, founding partners of Chicago-based luxury design firm Soucie Horner Ltd., purchased the inn, adding their own stylish take, and transforming it into a design lover’s dream of which Martha Stewart herself would approve. No two rooms are alike at the inn—each has its own distinct aesthetic, presented on its website like interior design mood-boards, complete with fabric, carpet and paint swatches.
WHERE TO EAT. Start with breakfast at the Wickwood Inn, featuring fresh-squeezed juices, Uncommon Coffee Roasters houseblend and a seasonal breakfast menu. For lunch, grab a burger or fish-tacos at the roadside Wicks Park Bar & Grill. Save
room for some locally-produced ice cream at Charlie’s ‘Round the Corner or afternoon tea and chocolate-chip cookies straight from the oven at the Wickwood Inn. For dinner, head to the family-owned waterfront Mermaid Bar & Grill for “boat-to-table” cuisine; visit The Trap for Middle Easterninspired bistro dining; or go old-school at Bowdie’s Chop House, a classic steakhouse with a cozy-yet-posh atmosphere.
WHAT TO DO. Even if it’s too cold for swimming, make a point to take a walk along historic Oval Beach. Another way to take in Saugatuck’s natural beauty is a dune ride across its breathtaking sanddunes. Be sure to immerse yourself in the local art scene—from galleries to art shows, live theater to film, workshops to classes. And take a tour of one of Saugatuck’s local wineries, including Fenn Vallery Vineyards & Winery, J. Petter Wine Gallery and Michigan Wine Co.
With the rush of kids’ back-to-school activities in the rear-view and colder weather ahead, fall is the perfect time for a laid-back, romantic getaway for two.No two rooms at the Wickwood Inn are the same.
From the preppy New England-esque town of Harbor Springs, with its turn-of-thecentury summer mansions, to the charming Victorian resort town of Petoskey, Little Traverse Bay, located on the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is known for its clear water, thanks to the springs that feed its harbor.
WHERE TO STAY. The familyowned Stafford’s Bay Inn, built in 1886, was a popular vacation retreat at the turn of the century, and remains one today. Just a few miles from downtown Petoskey, this Victorian gingerbread mansion will transport you to a more genteel time. Grab a good book, an iced tea and a wicker chair on the inn’s huge verandah overlooking Little
Traverse Bay, and you’ll feel the stress fade away. This fall, the inn is offering two nights of lodging, complimentary breakfast and $40 in dining dollars, starting at $399 a couple.
WHERE TO EAT. Start your day with a full breakfast at the inn’s Roselawn dining room—and if it’s Sunday, be sure to treat yourself to the inn’s famous Sunday brunch, featuring house-made pastries, fresh waffles, eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy and more. For lunch, head to Julienne Tomatoes, a cozy cafe in Petoskey, for a variety of fresh salads, soups and sandwiches. There are numerous fine-dining options in the area—one of the best is Stafford’s Pier Restaurant in Harbor Springs, offering waterfront dining, historic maritime ambience and a retro menu. Polish Kitchen in Harbor Springs offers authentic
and delicious Polish specialties, and for a truly special experience, have dinner at the Walloon Lake Inn in nearby Charlevoix, the town where Ernest Hemingway spent his summers. Don’t miss The City Park Grill in Petoskey, an old Hemingway haunt featuring a 32-foot solid mahogany bar. And since you’re on vacation, treat yourself to one—or two—local sweet treats, including Howse’s Fudge and Tom’s Mom’s Cookies—featuring flavors like chocolate with dried cherries and oatmeal butterscotch—both in Harbor Springs.
WHAT TO DO. For an outdoor adventure, grab one of the complimentary bikes at Stafford’s Bay Inn, and check out the 26-mile Little Traverse Wheelway, featuring flat terrain and stunning scenery. Or take a 30-minute ferry over to Mackinac Island and enjoy afternoon tea at the aptly-named Grand Hotel. For a day of shopping, visit the Gaslight District in downtown Petoskey, where you’ll find bookstores, galleries, gift shops and jewelry stores. With an on-site café, winery, brewery, hayrides and more, you can easily spend the whole day at Pond Hill Farm in Harbor Springs.
This historic and quaint town, set in the rolling hills along the Mississippi River, is known for its 19th-century brick buildings— including the Italianate Ulysses S. Grant home. Located in Illinois, but just ten minutes from Iowa and ten minutes from Wisconsin, visitors at Horseshoe Mound Preserve can enjoy a panoramic view of all three states.
WHERE TO STAY. The Goldmoor Inn, just minutes from downtown Galena, offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River Valley. Originally a privately-owned estate, it was reimagined as an elegant country inn with gourmet dining and a full-service spa more than 30 years ago. Today, guests can choose from 13 luxury suites located in the castle, one of three country cottages or one of two log cabins situated on a bluff overlooking the river. With an emphasis on romance, rooms feature two-person whirlpool spas, fireplaces and in-room dining options.
WHERE TO EAT. If you stay at the Goldmoor Inn, a gourmet breakfast delivered directly to your room is included in the price, so there’s no need to venture out for breakfast. For lunch, head to Otto’s Place for soups, sandwiches and salads. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, try Durty Gurt’s, which serves up some of the
best burgers in town. Dinner options abound in Galena. Fried Green Tomatoes, housed in a building once owned by Grant’s father, offers an array of Italian specialties. Fritz and Frites is one part German tavern (think Wienerschnitzel, spaetzle and beer), and one part French bistro (steak frites, onion soup gratinee and Bordeaux). For a true finedining experience, be sure to book one dinner at the Goldmoor, and try their signature beef Wellington, or share the 30-ounce Porterhouse steak.
WHAT TO DO. Truly a living museum, about 85 percent of downtown Galena is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Because the homes and buildings are so well-maintained, you will feel like you’re stepping back in time to the 1860s—
or in the case of the limestone-constructed Dowling House, Galena’s oldest home, 1826, to be precise. It’s easy to spend an entire day walking Galena’s Main Street, which boasts a half-mile of independently-owned restaurants, bars and shops that include antique stores, art studios, clothing stores, bookstores, gift-shops and more. But Galena offers more than just shopping and eating. Take a Mississippi Explorer Cruises pontoon at Chestnut Mountain resort for a scenic voyage down the mighty river. Head over to Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery to taste the local sweet whites and dry reds. Or take a kayaking trip along the Galena River through Fever River Outfitters. Afterwards, rejuvenate with a massage (couples or individual) at the Goldmoor Inn’s spa—the perfect end to a romantic weekend. n
Wellness House will hold its first traditional ball in three years at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on Oct. 15.
The Hinsdale-based non-profit organization provides free non-medical programs for individuals impacted by cancer and their families, and relies on fundraisers like the ball and its annual walk in May to continue to offer services on a complimentary basis. Wellness House presents more than 500 in-person, online and hybrid programs each month, ranging from exercise-based, nutritional and informational and educational, to counseling, support groups, stress management and programs geared towards children and families. According to marketing communications manager Deb Kwiatt, all
Wellness House programs are “evidencebased, and help people with cancer reduce side-effects, learn coping and relaxation techniques, exercise safely for increased energy, and feel less isolated.”
“Wellness House exists to support anyone who’s been impacted by cancer,” executive director Lisa Kolavennu said. “The support of this ball helps make sure that we can continue to be here for future cancer patients and families.”
Over the past handful of years, Wellness House has expanded beyond its base of operations on north County Line Road across the Chicago metropolitan area, forging partnerships with medical providers and community organizations to begin offering satellite programs. During the Coronavirus
pandemic, when demand for virtual engagement exploded, Wellness House initiated remote programs, and now operates in 37 states on a virtual basis.
“We were able to reach people in their hospital beds, and give them support and programs to help them through their process,” said Tina Weller, who is co-chairing the “wine cellar” for the Wellness House ball.
In 2021, after being forced to shift to a virtual format the year before, Wellness House brought its ball back in a modified manner, hosting the event on one night at several country clubs across the western suburbs. This year, the organization is returning to a traditional format downtown at
the prestigious Four Seasons.
“We’re thrilled to be all gathering in one space back in Chicago in an elegant ballroom to raise funds to support Wellness House,” Kolavennu said.
The theme for the ball is “all in,” which, according to Kwiatt, “celebrates the convergence of passion, expertise and support that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families.” The event will be a black-tie affair, with attendees having the opportunity to enjoy live big band music and dancing on the newly-renovated Four Seasons ballroom. Guests will be seated at lengthy community-style tables, while participating in a live program, auction and paddle-raise.
The aforementioned wine cellar will feature a variety of fixed-price wines available for purchase that can be savored at the ball or taken home. Weller said those unable to attend can still support Wellness House by purchasing wine to be delivered to their homes, while co-chair Lauren Houder encouraged such individuals to consider donating wine for the cellar, sponsoring the event or purchasing tables for friends, families or other organizations.
Burke Beverage and the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association will function as lead sponsors for the ball, while Napleton Auto Group has signed on as an additional major sponsor. Ball co-chairs anticipate roughly 500 guests, with tickets available for purchase online.
“This event will sell out,” Weller said.
Co-chair Dottie Martin said typically when volunteering for a cause, people can be apprehensive about pledging their support; but with Wellness House, a number of her friends and neighbors have asked her what they can do or give to assist.
“I’ve just been amazed that people have reached out to me about Wellness [House] that have heard through the grapevine that I’m doing [the] Wellness [ball] this year,” Martin said.
Kolavennu said Wellness House hopes to capture the energy of a return to normalcy.
“We’re looking to make this our biggest fundraiser ever,” she said. “It’s an anchor event for our organization, and we’re grateful for the community support.” n
“All In,” the 2022 Wellness House ball, will be held at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on Oct. 15. Tickets are available for purchase online, and the event is expected to sell out. To learn more, visit www.wellnesshouse.org.
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Kerry Farris receives hundreds of samples to her La Grange home, and she can size them up pretty quickly. When a new textile arrives from overseas, she considers every use, noting hand-feel, durability and washability. Farris has worked in merchandising for most of her life, but it wasn’t until a towel made from plastic bottles sat in her kitchen during COVID that the she felt a new burst of inspiration. The pandemic-inspired launch of Once Again Home Co. was built out of a simple solution to a pervasive problem, but for Farris and her keen eye for product, it was a long time coming.
“You kind of rethink everything you’ve done up to that point,” said Farris, a mom of three teenage boys. “For me, there were multiple layers that came together in 2020. I thought, ‘This is crazy.’ People are using so many paper towels for cleaning during this pandemic, and then there was the hording. You couldn’t find paper goods in the stores! I thought, ‘If I don’t do something now, I’m going to regret it.’”
Farris’s fascination with the buying process started as a teen, while working in the juniors department at Marshall Fields. More than the sales-floor, she loved the backroom activity, where trending brands were measured against consumer appetite, all backed by spreadsheets of shopper data. The experience led to a degree in fashion merchandising from Eastern Illinois, and a career took off.
After a stint at the Merchandise Mart supporting a wholesaler in statement sweaters, then a suiting clothier, Farris shifted to home goods at a time when retailers were delivering through attractive catalogues, as well as in store.
“With home goods, you have more time between seasons, and you have the ability to sit back and analyze the business a bit more,”
she said. “It’s a more methodical thinking. You’re digging into the product itself, and thinking how you can improve it to be the best quality.”
At the same time, the always-buzzing Farris had not only met her future husband at Montgomery Ward, but discovered a love of design. Never one to idle, she enrolled in the two-year program at Harrington College of Design in Chicago at a time when CAD drawing was first coming into the profession.
After a short time off, Farris found that speaking the language of product sales was a career itself. In 2017, she launched Creative Departures, a consulting outfit that assists overseas factories with product and business development, linking them to contacts at larger retailers like Kohl’s and Meijer.
“I’ve had experience over all these years with importers,” Farris said. “A lot of times, you have a decent factory, but they don’t know how to go after the U.S. market. It’s a difficult thing for these factories to get the same level of opportunities.”
Farris, dressed in gauzy linen and sitting amongst a soothingly-curated nook in the front of her home, recalled the origin of Once Again Home Co. Her strong relationships overseas allowed her to build trust, articulate a vision and promote an opportunity. What started with a towel sample manufactured from plastic bottles became an opportunity to deliver sustainable cheer into households at the perfect time.
“It’s the idea of reusing things, be it bottles into new products, or actually having a product that you can use over and over again, rather than paper goods,” Farris said. “I wanted to reflect the purpose, that we’re continuing the cycle.”
Descending down to her basement, a halfmoon shape of shelves bubbling over with bright stacks of towels makes a colorful
transition to Farris’s current fulfillment center. Each item is carefully curated by color palate and product. What started as everyday towels now bursts into a variety of colorful prints, the line expansions including oversized towels for the beach or yoga practice and shrunken squares for small hands as lunchbox napkins or dining table adornments. A basket of sponges, wrapped in complimentary textiles and woven with odor-neutralizing charcoal completes the collection of must-have products. They feel decidedly cheerful, and that’s the point. Once Again Home is on a mission to bring joy to the everyday, through colorful prints and thoughtful designs. A graphic artist in St. Louis and a designer in Miami are a few of the minds supporting the brand’s success, all curated through Farris’s years in the home goods trade. She has also relied on the growing popularity of wholesale marketplaces like Faire.com to supplement area trade-shows.
The wholesaler websites have also impacted Once Again Home on a local scale, where Farris has found customers in boutiques like La Grange’s Vintage Charm and Western Springs-based Clever Girl, where her products regularly sell out. Once Again Home is currently working on a line extension for a major mass retailer, and looking at fulfillment centers beyond Farris’ basement to allow for broader assortment and inventory management. Still, Farris is reminded of the purpose of her brand. Her logo is clean, clear and welcoming, and each product boasts the equivalent number of bottles used right on the label.
“I love selling to independent businesses, and seeing customers interact with the product at pop-up shows,” Farris said. “I’m realizing that hearing from customers [directly]—that’s kind of the best part.” n
Transworld Business Advisors of La Grange is a business brokerage company that offers additional services for business valuations, franchising and franchise consultancy. Most business owners that contact Transworld aren’t aware of what a business broker is. This involves helping people sell and buy companies. Often, someone has taken the time, money and effort to build a great business with tremendous equity or goodwill that they are merely going to close, as no one in the family wants to continue it. Just knowing what one’s company is worth is a crucial first step in this process. Transworld offers a broker opinion of value for $2,500, which is the only feebased item on its menu of services. Typically, a business broker does not profit until the company is sold, and its commission is a percentage of the company’s sale price. Currently, the average time to sell a business is between seven and eight months, but some transactions can require more than a year. The sale price is usually based off a multiple of seller discretionary earnings (SDE), or the benefit to the new owner after all business expenses have been paid on an annual basis. Business owners can be frustrated about the value of their business, as they want to be compensated for the blood, sweat and tears that have been put into the company, or for a projection of sales that have not yet occurred. Unfortunately, businesses are valuated at where the company stands financially today. Transworld Business Advisors focuses on helping “main street USA” businesses from the small dry cleaner down the street up to a business worth a $10 million dollar listing price. Transworld’s mergers and acquisition team can also provide services to larger companies, with a massive network of five offices in the Chicagoland area, 250 worldwide and more than 750 business broker agents internationally.
Transworld is here to help you transition out of your current business, or help you find the business ownership opportunity or acquisition target you’ve been searching for. Owner Matt Friscia and business partner Tony Sansone have both stood in business owners’ shoes. After leaving corporate America after 15 years, Matt bought an in-home senior-care franchise, and ran it successfully for five years. He ultimately sold it with Transworld. Tony worked in corporate meetings and events for many years, while having also owned and sold his own catering company. They have both completed the SBA loan process, and have identified local transactional attorneys, lenders, CPAs and commercial real estate agents to serve as resources for their clients. If or when someone might have a unique, proven business concept, Transworld can help a business owner franchise nationally. And although they strongly recommend buying a business that has history established, they can also help entrepreneurs find the right franchise concept if nothing on the market suits a potential buyer. You do not have to be a franchise to work with them, but they certainly have a lot of experience selling franchise businesses. Confidentiality is a huge factor in selling a business, and Transworld is here to help you take the next step in the process of transitioning into or out of a business. Browse their website today to see the many for-sale business offerings they currently have among their active listings at tworld.com/lagrange. Transworld can also be reached at 708-328-8800 or lagrange@tworld.com.
n this issue, we present the first part of our second installment of 25 Community Influencers. While this community is filled with individuals that have attained a high profile across a variety of fields, this section is devoted specifically to recognizing people who have made a strong impact on Western Springs, La Grange, La Grange Park and neighboring municipalities.
Our honorees range from local politicians and public servants who have worked to enhance the region and maintain its desirability through legislation; to non-profit leaders who have added another dimension to the social and charitable fabric of the community; to business owners who have made an impression on the lives of locals through their entrepreneurship. Without the contributions of these enterprising leaders, this community would lack much of what makes it unique.
You will notice some familiar faces from last year’s section, including Western Springs village president Alice Gallagher and La Grange trustee Beth Augustine; but we are also excited to recognize new influencers, such as The Elm co-owners Dan and Caitlin Spain and Lyons Township High School principal Dr. Jennifer Tyrrell. We feel this mixture of repeat and new honorees will keep the list prestigious and an accurate reflection of individuals who are impacting the community, while also allowing a number of new faces to shine each year.
This section spans two months, October and November. If you know a resident you would like to nominate for future consideration, please reach out to editor Mike Ellis or one of our reader advisory committee members, who are listed on our staff page.
Could you briefly summarize the history of your community involvement in and around La Grange? My appreciation and realization of this community as a joint venture between village government, residents, citizen groups and an engaged business community came early to me. My mother ran a small business, and was an active member of many community civic groups. She eventually became a village trustee. I grew up watching her devote a great deal of time and energy to the betterment of this village. She made a positive impact in many ways, and she was greatly fulfilled by those experiences. My inclination to serve La Grange was wholly inspired by her. I moved back to La Grange in 2011. Serving in public office was not ever a goal. I knew I’d get involved in the community in some way—but not for a while. I was working fulltime, crazy hours, and I had a baby. But even though my plate was full, a resident that I admired encouraged me to join the Citizens’ Council of La Grange. It sounded fascinating, and I couldn’t resist joining. Through this non-partisan group, I started to learn how the village worked. The membership is designed to rotate and stay fresh, and I stayed involved for the maximum-allowed six years, serving as chairman from 2015 to 2017.
Why did your La Grange roots motivate you to return home and to become very involved in the community? My deep roots in La Grange were definitely a factor in choosing to move back here from the city to raise my family. I loved growing up here, and already knew it was a beautiful town with great schools, homes and a lively business district—but as important was La Grange’s proximity to Chicago. At the time I moved back, I was working full-time on The Oprah Winfrey Show at Harpo Studios, and I would now have to commute. La Grange gave me abundant options. I could easily get to the Eisenhower and the Stevenson, but in most cases, I zipped in via Ogden Ave. or the 22-minute express train.
Have you been involved as a volunteer locally with any organizations or causes besides the La Grange Business Association (LGBA)? My husband and I are very active in our church at St. Francis Xavier Parish. We regularly offer our assistance in helping to plan and coordinate various social events at the parish, and support the food pantry that serves local residents.
Is there anything new at the LGBA that we should know about since we visited with you last year? Since the beginning of the year, we’re experiencing an unprecedented surge in our membership, in part reflecting the fact that many Americans are starting new businesses at a record rate. Small business owners look to us for networking, collaboration and partnerships, and we’ve focused a lot of our resources in 2022 in helping our members reach a broader customer base. You’ll be seeing several new examples of this throughout the holidays. While the local business climate hasn’t yet returned to pre-pandemic “normal,” the outlook has improved, but inflation, [the] supply chain and staffing shortages continue to have a negative impact on our local small business owners.
Have you observed any impacts of the recent inflation on local or member businesses? Any small business owner knows the struggle of dealing with very tight profit margins, and that has only been exacerbated by our current rate of inflation. Increasing the price of some goods and services is one way that our local businesses can counter inflation; reducing their inventory is another. That’s why you sometimes won’t be able to find a favorite dish on the restaurant menu, or a blouse in a particular size at your favorite store; you might also see modest price increases. Our hope is that patrons can empathize with the various ways that small business owners are looking for ways to cut costs, while still maintaining their high levels of personalized service.
Western Springs Illinois House Minority Leader
What is your forecast for the 2022 elections in Illinois? It’s clear that Illinoisans are not tolerating the extreme views of the Democratic party that have pushed our state’s policies to the brink. The House Republican majority has put forward dozens of candidates who are focused on collaboration and common ground. I can’t predict the future, but this state desperately needs checks and balances in the Illinois House.
What issues are you hearing are most important to voters right now? High taxes, particularly property taxes, need to be reduced during these economic times. We must stop the governor from micromanaging our businesses, small and large, and let competition be the deciding factor in growing our economy. We need to repeal the SAFE-T Act that is putting some of the most dangerous criminals back onto our streets. Parents shouldn’t have to worry about kids playing in their yards. We need to restore public safety, while also supporting our law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to protect us.
The Illinois House of Representatives has a new speaker, Chris Welch. What has been your experience working with him, and how is he different from Mike Madigan? Not much has changed—the “Madigan way” continues on under Speaker Welch. We have seen less Republican bills called now than we did with Speaker Madigan, which is very disheartening after years of corruption. Illinois needs a speaker who is going to work with everyone to collaborate on the best solutions for our state, not try to divide us further, and I am prepared to take on that responsibility.
Could you briefly summarize the history of your community involvement in and around Western Springs? Most of my community involvement revolved around volunteering at our kids’ schools. I first joined the Field Park PTO in 1995, and was its VP in 2002-03 and president in 2003-04. I joined the Western Springs Foundation for Educational Excellence in 2002, and served as the grant committee chair from 200304 and chairman from 2004-05. I served on the Western Springs District 101 school board from 2005 to 2009. I served as trustee on the village board from 2013 to 2017, was elected president in 2017, and again in 2021. Each term is a four-year commitment. Other volunteer activities include serving as an ESL teacher for School on Wheels from 2008 to 2010, and volunteering to assist the Prairie Yoga teacher training program (2015-16). I have taught yoga classes as a volunteer teacher here and there from 2009 to the present. Currently, I volunteer to teach a monthly iPhone class for seniors at Smith Crossing in Orland Park.
What are some of the topics and issues that the Western Springs village board intends to tackle in the year ahead? The village board is currently working on a comprehensive infrastructure improvement plan. This is a massive undertaking, but necessary to develop a systemic solution to the myriad of infrastructure issues associated with aging infrastructure and increasingly violent and unpredictable weather events. The tollway expansion of the I-294 central corridor is another multi-year project that directly impacts the village. As part of the project, the tollway is funding the relocation of the pedestrian bridge from Maple Ave. to 47th Street, which will enhance safe passage for non-vehicular traffic between Spring Rock Park and Veeck Park.
What is your forecast for the 2022 elections in Illinois? It can be difficult to tell, but right now, I’m focused on talking to voters in my district, and learning about the issues that matter to them and how I can best represent them in Springfield. I’ve knocked on hundreds of doors and visited dozens of events to make sure I connect with people from all parts of my district.
What issues are you hearing are most important to voters right now? One of the biggest issues that voters have told me is on their minds is protecting women’s reproductive health rights. People are upset with with the Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, and want to ensure women’s rights are protected here in Illinois. I’m proud that we’ve taken steps in our state to ensure women can make decisions regarding their own reproductive health. Another major issue that I’m hearing about from voters is gun violence prevention. Mass shootings have been an epidemic in our country, and have hit close to home with the recent tragedy in Highland Park. I’m hopeful that we can find some common-sense solutions to stop these tragedies and keep our communities safe.
What are some examples of legislation that you expect the General Assembly will be considering in 2023? I think it’s critical that we take action to stop the gun violence that is plaguing our communities. I recently signed on as a co-sponsor to legislation to ban assault weapons in Illinois. I’m hoping that we’ll be able to advance this measure, and bring some relief to the gun violence epidemic. I’m also hopeful that we’ll continue to take additional steps to protect reproductive health rights, and fully fund our state’s evidence-based schoolfunding model, which helps provide quality education for our students, while reducing our reliance on property taxes.
As a native of the area, what are some similarities and differences that you notice today? As a little girl, I can remember that La Grange was such a safe place to grow up—I remember every neighbor as an integral part of my life. Everyone knew each other, we cared for one another, we shared each other’s joys and sorrows of life. We valued human life. I remember neighborhood blockparties, activities provided at the La Grange Community Center for youth and children. There was never a time when there was no adult supervision, as I was cared for by other parents, and my parents cared for other children while parents were not at home. To be honest, it reminds [one] of the community you would see in sitcoms such as Leave It to Beaver or The Andy Griffith Show
What interested you in ministry, and how long have you served at the First Baptist Church of La Grange? I was a member of Second Baptist Church for more than 50 years, serving as a choir member, usher, church nurse, missionary, Baptist women’s auxiliary, mothers’ board, organizer and director of the Little Angels children’s choir. Luke xii. 48. says, “For unto whosoever much is given, of him shall be much required.” Knowing that my life has been so richly-blessed, wanting to share the message of hope with others, I accepted my apostolic call into the Gospel ministry of Jesus Christ in November 2000.
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Yes, as a double-minority, female and African-American, I have experienced the prejudices of life, both as a child and as an adult. But the one thing that remains constant in my life is my Christian principles that were taught to me in my home by my parents and grandparents. In the eyesight of God, I am equal to every man, woman, boy or girl ever created. I am just as important as the next person. I was always taught to be the best person I could be—that is all that was required of me. Love others as I wanted to be loved. ... I strive daily to be an empowered woman of God, full of [the] Holy Ghost’s power, living to show Christ to the world.
Since we visited with you last year, you sold Palmer Place, and are now focusing on Stadium Club at the MAX. Why did you decide to go in this direction? The decision to sell Palmer Place was not an easy one for my brother and I to make. As we sat down to discuss our five-year plan, the retirement plan was brought up. My brother (age 61) would like to retire around age 65. I am quite a bit younger, and plan on working longer. As for the business side, it was time to reinvest, as we did [in the] early 2000s, with repairs and updating the aging building and restaurant. That path would have been a significant dollar investment, and with retirement around the corner for one partner, it didn’t make sense. As it turns out, there was quite a bit of interest [in the restaurant]. Fortunately, we found a buyer who was a family in the restaurant business already. Not being ready to retire, the Village of McCook approached me about the restaurant opportunity at the McCook Athletic and Exposition Center (MAX). I have had my Brew Moon event for local charities there for the last ten years, and have built a relationship with the leadership of the village. Renting but not owning the building and unlimited parking were a few of the reasons for taking on the new restaurant. The Stadium Club at the MAX is very different from our previous restaurant, focusing more on a chef-driven menu and live music, while still being very family-friendly.
How did you feel about selling Palmer Place, and what do you expect the future will hold for the restaurant? I have very mixed emotions about selling what was my family’s legacy in the community. My late mother was the vision and the force behind Palmer Place and what it is today. I am proud of what she did for us and our community. She inspired me to work hard and to give back. I think the future of Palmer Place is in good hands with the Tarman family. I am extremely proud they wanted to continue to use our family name. Yes, things will change under new ownership—as they should—but it will still be a La Grange staple.
Have there been any changes or new developments at Smothers Group with Compass since we visited with you last year? We have added expertise in the Chicago metro area to our team with three agents that know that area. We have added a Chicago rental specialist to our team. The most exciting change is that we are moving at the end of this month. We have secured new space closer to the downtown La Grange business district, and are in the process of renovating to make the space [function] for how real estate works now, post-pandemic: lots of open space, more comfortable and inviting—more like a living room. We can’t wait to get in, and we will have a giant party to show people our new digs.
What kind of year has 2022 been in real estate? How have rising mortgage rates impacted the industry? Rising rates have slowed the market, which is a good thing. The days of 40 offers on a property in the first day and buyers waiving most contingencies are over. The reason I’m saying this is good is that it gives everyone a chance to find a home and breathe while they make a good decision for them and their families. It will result in less deals falling through, less complaints about unfair treatment and a more balanced market where everyone can participate and feel confident about their sale or purchase. In general, the year has been good, but chaotic. One of my agents is having her best year ever. But for buyers and sellers, it will be calmer and more comfortable.
Why should women consider getting involved in local business? If a woman is considering becoming an entrepreneur, I think there’s no better way than to start locally. The networking and support groups that we, as women, create can help any entrepreneur through the tough times, help with mentoring and create loyalty to their brand. I have found that many women collaborate with others without fear of competition, and that benefits us all.
As local natives, what are some similarities and differences that you notice in the community today? There have always been a lot of small business owners in La Grange, which is always great to see. We have a strong appreciation for their work-ethic, and it’s inspiring to see people follow through with their dreams. The downtown area, in our opinion, continues to improve. When we grew up, there were only a handful of restaurants, and many were chains. To see it evolve to where it is today and be a part of it is extremely rewarding.
Where did you get the idea to launch The Elm? We both lived in Chicago, and thought there was a need for an upscale casual restaurant with private event rooms and a large rooftop, where people could relax and have a unique dining experience.
The Elm has rapidly become a destination restaurant in the region. Have you been at all surprised at the initial response? To be successful opening our first restaurant during a pandemic is humbling. We have had tremendous support from the community and beyond. We owe a lot of the success to chef Eddie Jobin. How he and the entire team consistently execute on a weekly basis is extremely impressive, especially under the circumstances over the last two years. We thought La Grange was conveniently located in the near western suburbs, and there would be a high demand to have a space that could host any type of event. It’s very fulfilling to see people celebrating their special events with us, and we are hoping to host more business events this fall and winter. To have this much space and abundant parking were keys to us being successful.
Have you made any changes or new developments to Kidlist since we visited with you last year? Kidlist continues to grow, and now serves more than 1.3 million readers per year! In the last year, we have started publishing seasonal content sooner, so families looking further ahead can start making plans and scoping out new places to go. The Kidlist Instagram account has also grown quite a bit. We are loving reels and getting information out to families in creative ways. The Kidlist team is always improving what we offer by adding more details and perspectives on places to go and local events happening across the western suburbs. We are excited to help even more families have fun together.
What advice would you give to a local mom considering starting her own business? Don’t let impostor syndrome set in. When you have a passion for something and realize a talent that you possess, it’s easy to think that it’s not a big deal—it is! You are good at something, and turning that into a business will help other people, while being fulfilling. Second-guessing yourself is not going to allow you to move forward with your idea. Connect with your local business community, and also form a support system with others that do something similar outside of our area. It’s so valuable to talk about what you are doing with like-minded people. Finding others that understand your specific business, as well as getting to know other business owners, is inspiring and priceless. Competition is good, but don’t waste your time constantly comparing yourself to them. It’s difficult to find a healthy balance, but so important for your frame of mind. Having competitors in business makes us strive to do better and think of new ways of doing things, but it can also drag you down into thinking you aren’t doing enough if you aren’t careful. If you need to unfollow, that’s fine. Do your own thing, and if it’s meant to be, it will take off!
La Grange
Principal, Lyons Township High School
In your first year-plus as principal at Lyons Township High School, what has been your experience? The LTHS community is a very special one! I have met some amazing people during my initial year at LT, and could not be more proud to serve the LTHS community. Our students, staff and families have made me feel right at home. In a short time, I have developed an awesome partnership with [superintendent] Dr. [Brian] Waterman, and I truly can’t wait to see what our school community accomplishes as we move forward.
You attend a lot of athletic events. Is this a tradition that dates back to your time at Sandburg? I love to attend athletic events, concerts, performances, shows and even club events and meetings. As a younger administrator, I always looked up to and appreciated principals who were present and visible within a school community. When I first became a principal, one of my main priorities was being present at extracurricular events in support of students and staff, and also in order to connect with families. This continues to be a focus of mine. I love this part of my job, and think it is so important. I consider myself our students’ biggest fan, and love supporting them as they explore their passions. It is really humbling how much it means to our students, staff and families, and I consider myself so lucky to have a front-row seat to so many awesome [activities].
What do you want to impress on students as their principal during their four years at LT? We absolutely want our students to know that we care for them, and want them to thrive in all areas during their LT experience. We want them to feel a sense of belonging at LT, and want their time to be full of connections, relationships and experiences that allow them to explore their passions, and develop as students and people. We want all of our students to leave life-, career- and collegeready; we also want them to have a dynamic, fun, and fulfilling high-school experience!
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Grange, IL 60525
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Leo lives in La Grange Park with his wife and their three children. When he isn’t writing home loans, he spends his free time rehabbing the home they’ve resided in since 2011, coaching his boy’s Little League or LFC football teams, or playing a round or two of golf. Leo’s philanthropy efforts consist of The Legacy Guild, Habitat for Humanity, The Guaranteed Rate Foundation and La Grange Park Little League fundraising.
you ever are considering a home purchase, refinance or update of your existing home, Leo and his team are the best in the business.
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mortgage lending industry’s very best. Bringing two decades of knowledge and experience to Neighborhood Loans, he now serves as a vice president of mortgage lending. He specializes in jumbo, conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, renovation and NON-QM loans in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nevada, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Joining the industry right out of Eastern Illinois University, Vetter was recruited as an account executive, before transitioning into a loan officer position.
actually went to school to become a teacher,
me to join him,” Vetter
brother-in-law
ultimately learned
working for a lender as a processor and
complete immersion.”
achieving his best year yet, Vetter prides himself on maintaining open lines of communication, and customizing each
his ability and accessibility as fundamental
to best fit the client’s financial portfolio.
By Mike Ellis || Photography by Carolina Menapace
Most entrepreneurs and business owners start along a path previously trodden, and put a personal twist on an established concept, from restaurants to retail to an assortment of other industries.
But for Dan Colantuono of La Grange, one of his biggest challenges in launching his life safety consulting business was finding an
insurance provider, given the uniqueness of his concept.
“It took me, when I first started it, a really long time to find insurance,” Colantuono said, adding that his concept lacked a “box” in which providers could place him.
A 24-year veteran of the Franklin Park Fire Department, Colantuono is approaching retirement from the fire service. His wife
asked him what he would do once he retires, and he replied with uncertainty.
At a dinner party with friends, Colantuono experienced a “light-bulb moment” when the smoke detector went off, and he informed them that they needed to replace the detector, which surprised them. He said at any commercial business, “the building department, the fire
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department, the fire marshal or some entity thereof will go and do an inspection on those buildings; but no one does it residentially.”
“The kids are doing fire-drills at school,” Colantuono said. “We do them commercially...but nobody’s really doing this at home.”
This experience prompted Colantuono to begin visiting friends’ houses, and investigating whether their families knew how to exit in the event of a fire emergency— and Fireman Dan Life Safety Consulting was born.
More attention was directed towards fire safety in La Grange after a fire ravaged a home in the 200 block of south Ashland Ave. last December.
According to Colantuono, a propane heater on the front porch caught the wicker on a very windy day, and the porch was suddenly engulfed in flames. The fire rapidly spread indoors, where it traveled up the walls, climbing to the second and third floors and the attic. Firefighters were unable to place ground-ladders on the house, and then-La Grange fire chief Terrence Vavra determined that no firefighters would enter it, because no rescues were required.
Since launching his business in 2021, Colantuono estimates he has consulted for at least 75 houses in La Grange, as well as Western Springs, La Grange Park, Burr Ridge, Hinsdale and Brookfield. Colantuono said he could not style his services “inspections,” because home inspections are already conducted before closing, which would create confusion among homeowners. He has worked with local realtors such as Annie Harrington of @properties, and is able to add his services as an incentive when a buyer purchases a house.
“Fireman Dan is a longtime neighbor and
friend,” said Harrington, who resides in La Grange. “When he told me about his home and life safety inspection, I knew it would be the perfect closing gift for my clients, and something that I wanted for my family and friends. When Dan spent time at our property, he was very thorough, and I learned things about my house I am embarrassed I did not already know—for example, where to turn off the main water and gas source, and whether all my smoke and carbon monoxide detectors were up to date and placed accurately.”
When Hillgrove Avenue visited with Fireman Dan, he was performing a consultation for a homeowner on Ashland Ave. in La Grange.
Colantuono inspects both the exterior and interior of the home in copious detail, focusing specifically on potential life safety issues. He typically commences outside, scouring the exterior for any safety hazards. In garages, Colantuono usually searches for joule storage in a metal cabinet, explaining that if gasoline is sitting out, it can prove hazardous upon spilling. He follows National Fire Protection Association recommendations, which include having a small smoke detector in every bedroom and outside of every sleeping area; a
carbon monoxide detector on every floor; and a fire extinguisher on every floor and outside in the garage. According to Colantuono, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are good for seven to ten years, depending on the manufacturer.
“A lot of the times, that’s what I find lacking is extinguishers and out-of-date detectors,” he said, adding that much of the equipment he observes has exhausted its useful life, and homeowners require reminders to update and replace.
At the conclusion of his consultations, Fireman Dan provides recommendations, before preparing a written report for the homeowners that he submits within several days, which points out both what they are doing well and what they need to improve. He can also return if the owner needs any fire extinguishers or smoke and carbon monoxide detectors removed or installed. Among his fire safety tips, Colantuono implores people to remain close to whatever they are cooking, and be cognizant of unattended smoking materials and burning candles.
Sometimes, Fireman Dan advises homeowners place covers over live outlets to keep kids safe. But his biggest point of emphasis—in addition to possessing functional detectors—is summed up in the aphorism “close before you doze.”
“If I can get people to sleep with their bedroom doors closed and have working detectors—those are the two biggest things that save peoples’ lives,” he said.
With nearly 100 consultations under his belt, Fireman Dan said he has yet to discover anyone else offering precisely the same services that he provides.
An estimated three to six years from retirement from his firefighting duties, Colantuono said his goal is to inspect 200 houses per year, and he would like to see his consulting business progress to the point where he can franchise it.
Harrington said she “could not recommend Fireman Dan more highly.”
“He was amazing with my kids, and had such a knack for getting them on-board with fire safety,” she said. “To this day, they insist on sleeping with their door shut, because that is what Fireman Dan told them is the safest way to sleep. Time with Fireman Dan is worth its weight in gold. By the time he left, we all knew a plan for how to exit the house safely, and actually practiced it.” n
“The kids are doing firedrills at school, We do them commercially...but nobody’s really doing this at home.”
Dan ColantuonoColantuono consults at a La Grange home this summer.
If you would like to take the “fear” out of real estate and would like service like this — contact me today!
"This was a tough process in a difficult market. We were able to sell our home first and then buy, trusting the process would work out. Sheila found a home that didn’t show up on our feed either private or public and we got it. She truly found a diamond in the rough.”
JOSH + ANNA P. | BUYERS + SELLERS“Sheila — thank you so, so much for all your guidance! This entire process has been surreal for us and we were genuinely amazed at how quickly you grasped our style and needs. We cannot say enough about how painless and fun you made the house hunting, home buying, and closing process. We will definitely share your info with anyone and everyone who’s looking for a home (or trying to seek one)! Thank you again.”
JOHN + MELANIE E. | BUYERS“My husband and I recently sold our house in Garfield Ridge. When we found out that we would be moving, we knew exactly who to call — Sheila! She helped us buy and sell our first house, buy and sell our second house, and we wish she could help us buy our new house out of state! Sheila is more then a REALTOR® — she is like family! The process of selling this house was so hard on me and she was always there for me physically and emotionally! I don’t know how I would have done it without her! When we eventually move back to Chicago we will definitely call Sheila to help us find a new house!”
LAUREN C. | SELLER
Will and Ben Swicionis aren’t identical twins, and they don’t play on the same side of the ball for the Lyons Township boys soccer team.
But that’s about where the differences end for the seniors. They’re both effective at their craft in trade, which is what matters most to LT coach Paul Labbato—that, and the fact that they’re established program leaders.
“They are very different,” Labbato said. “Ben is a lefty—everything you’d want in a center-mid position in that creative attacking mode. Will is a classic center-back or holding center—strong in the air, tough physically, great timing on tackles—a totally
different player.”
Like a lot of kids, the brothers started playing soccer in recreation programs around the age of 5, but in Berwyn. The family, including dad Jim and older brother Jack, moved to La Grange Park in 2017.
Soccer wasn’t their only sport, though. They played basketball and baseball as youths as well, which helped hone the competitiveness they show on the soccer field today.
That competitive fire also surfaced in playing with Jack, a top-shelf Lyons soccer player who now plays at St. Norbert in Wisconsin.
“In the backyard, we had this goal, and usually it, would be me and Will versus
Jack—and Jack was good,” Ben said. “Even if it was two [versus] one, we’d lose. He’d never let us win. ... When we play now, Jack never takes it easy on me.”
Labbato said the twins had the benefit of watching and training with their older brother through the first half of high school, which is paying dividends now.
“Not only physically, Jack was a boy that trained individually very hard on his own,” he said. “Those brothers tagged along on his training. As Jack was preparing for junior and senior year and first year of college, Ben and Will had the advantage of training with him, [and he] was very focused.”
The one thing you didn’t see as kids, or
now, for that matter, was a lot of brotherly bickering that you might observe elsewhere, according to their dad.
“They competed against each other, but they [were] never the kind of kids where I would have to break up a fight,” said Jim, who himself played college soccer at the University of St. Francis in Aurora, and was an all-state player for Morton in 1988.
The best way to describe the twins, Jim said, is, “One will run through a wall, and the other will find a way around the wall. Will is your prototypical hard-nosed player, and Ben is a creative player.”
Will said he enjoys getting in the air and out-jumping an opponent in an effort to get a 50-50 ball. Soccer is mostly played on the ground, of course, and it’s very gratifying for him to “just give 100 percent on those types of things, because not everybody does.”
Ben, conversely, is a good distributor.
“I would say a distributor is someone who gets the ball, and I’m going to set up someone to score,” he said. “In a different view, like football, the quarterback tries to pass to a receiver to get him to run into the end-zone.— It’s like that.”
That’s soccer, though, and there’s more to the twins than just sports. For example, they both offer raving reviews of the area.
“People are more out and about in the La Grange area,” Will said. “There’s a nice downtown area with lots of shops and restaurants. I feel like I see a lot more people with smiles on their faces and enjoying their town.”
“You drive down the streets and you see people walking their dogs and riding their bikes,” Ben said. “It has a community feel to it.”
The Lions are currently pushing towards the IHSA playoffs, which means a whole new world after high school will soon open up.
Don’t get the idea, though, that they’ll forget where they came from. In fact, they both have advice for young kids who would aspire to be them someday.
“Always give 100 percent,” Will said. “You never know what day is going to be your day. Always work hard, and never give up. If you don’t make varsity as a junior, you can make it as a senior.”
“You’ve got to keep going,” Ben said. “If you have a bad game, you have to push through that. That even happens to the pros.”
York Tavern is a charming, yet understated mid-19th-century establishment that is popular, busy and endowed with a classic pub-based menu that offers quintessential pub fare.
When I arrived for my tasting at 1:30 p.m. on a Tuesday, the sky a clear blue and sun shining generously, I was very curious as to the history of this Oak Brook institution. I
had done some reading about what it had been over the years—namely, DuPage County’s oldest continuously-operating eating and drinking establishment—quite an impressive resume!
What I saw was a quaint, red building with a patio replete with patrons basking in the pleasant ambience and savoring the myriad dishes the waitstaff dutifully and smilingly brought them. People were
coming and going, either having wholly enjoyed their lunches or being excited about eating the same.
I was greeted first by a smiling, affable server named Caroline, who immediately sat me outside where the robust sunlight would serve our photographer well. It was a spectacular afternoon, besides, and lunching al fresco would only serve to enhance the hearty, delicious feast I was anticipating.
Go to York Tavern as soon as possible, and don’t expect to be anything but highly impressed with their offerings, whether salads, sandwiches, desserts or cocktails.
When owner Rosalia Egbert introduced herself, I inquired as to what I should sample. She made a few suggestions, piquing my culinary interest. Caroline took our orders, and the first dish on the menu to sample—calamari—soon arrived.
The aroma it gave off was enticing me to the point that I needed to still my tongue. I couldn’t wait to sample this seafood. I forewent the fried version, and instead, ordered the grilled calamari. This proved mighty cerebral, as well as satisfying, for I promptly squeezed the lemon, seized a slightly charred ring with my fork and placed the fresh, slightly sweet morsel into my mouth. My excitement grew as I tasted more of the soft—not rubbery—tender calamari rings and—yes—tentacles, and my palate was enraptured. Frankly, I’m usually not one to order calamari in a restaurant— too often, the fried variety is greasy, and the grilled, tough and chewy. This was a pleasant, indeed welcome surprise. I ate just enough to completely satiate my longunsated craving for excellent calamari, free of grease, too much breading, toughness and inedibility. Thank you, York Tavern! I am indebted to you.
The steaming, aroma-exuding bowl of chili con carne that arrived next was enticing, to say the least. I am a bona fide lover and adorer of stewed ground meat, red kidney beans, onions, tomatoes and just the right amount of chili-imparted
heat—this fit the bill! The consistency was spot-on—just the right amount of viscosity, and not at all soupy.
The flavor was delightful; I could easily have devoured another bowl—but York Tavern’s signature double cheeseburger made an appearance at the table, as did the pizza that I was hankering to taste. I would move on, but not regretfully, as once I brought the colossus of a burger to my mouth and bit down on it, I realized that this is some excellent food. I ordered the burger medium, which it was, and liked that it was topped with lettuce, tomatoes and a nice, perfectly-thick slice of onion, which is imperative if I’m to enjoy a burger. The accompanying mountain of fries enhanced the burger experience, as they should, and I sadly needed to refrain from consuming them all.
Pizza—who doesn’t thoroughly enjoy a thin disc of baked dough, slathered with just the right amount of herbaceous tomato sauce, and topped with abundant, gooey, rich-aged mozzarella? This is not Neapolitan-style pizza—it’s not meant to
be; this is pub pizza, and as I seized a piece, I knew this was going to be good. I bit into it, and was delighted with the subtle crunch of the crust, the slightly, but naturally, sweet tomato sauce and all that glorious cheese. They definitely do not skimp on the cheese, which is a good thing.
I dispatched of several squares of the pizza pie; then Caroline inquired as to what dessert I craved to top off this most satisfying repast. I was torn between the tiramisu and chocolate cake, which, I was warned, were ample in size. I opted for the chocolate cake, and the wedge was massive! It was moist and, thankfully, not cloyingly sweet—a many-layered “piece” of cake that could easily satisfy four diners with the sweetest of teeth. I barely made a dent, as it was a monster-sized wedge of chocolate layer cake that topped off a satisfying feast at York Tavern.
Go to York Tavern as soon as possible, and don’t expect to be anything but highly impressed with their offerings, whether salads, sandwiches, desserts or cocktails.
Cheers! n
Thousands of area residents turned out for the annual La Grange Pet Parade across the streets of La Grange on June 4.
An annual community tradition for 75 years presented by Pet Parade Charities, the pet parade returned to its customary date of the Saturday following Memorial Day for the first time since 2019.
Among the honorary grand marshals was Dolores Hebert Jones, who walked in the first pet parade back in 1947.
The parade featured a host of familiar acts, including the Lyons Township marching band and color guard, the Park Junior High School marching band, LFC football and cheerleading, St. Francis Xavier (SFX) and St. Cletus Schools and the Medinah Shriners.
The Pigs and lead singer Michelle Anderson of local Sister Project blog and podcast fame performed aboard a float sponsored by The Elm.
Kablestart, a band consisting of three La Grange boys, played a series of tunes as they rode aboard a float surrounded by “groupies.”
A number of local businesses participated, such as Christopher Spartz Basketball, Princess Party by MC and real estate agents from @properties Western Springs, Coldwell Banker La Grange and Baird & Warner La Grange.
For more information about the La Grange Pet Parade and Pet Parade Charities, visit www.lagrangepetparade.org.
Hundreds of local residents gathered at Ridgewood Park for the fifth annual Ravinia in Ridgewood festival on July 9.
Presented by the Ridgewood Civic Association, the all-day festival welcomed attendees of all ages to enjoy music and activities in the park.
Kids were entertained by popular local magician Frankie Ace and the Brookfield Academy for Mini-Musicians.
Four different local bands supplied musical entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening. Mike & Joe headlined the entertainment lineup at night, while Evil Burrito, Toxic Crayon and Crows of Furey also performed.
Event sponsors set up tables and tents, interacting with current and prospective customers.
Sponsors included Petty & Dragstrem Orthodontics, Archie Vetter Lender, Clarity Physical Therapy & Wellness Center, West End Vision and the Village of Western Springs.
Dozens of local residents attended the La Grange Area Historical Society’s ice cream social at the Vial House in La Grange on July 24.
The ice cream social celebrated the 50th anniversary of the historical society.
Guests enjoyed treats courtesy of La Grange’s signature ice cream destination— TATES Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Shop.
Village trustee Beth Augustine was among the historical society volunteers who scooped ice cream for attendees.
Children had the opportunity to play games and engage in crafts in the yard outside the Vial House.
Inside, guests were welcome to explore
the historical society’s summer exhibit, “technological treasures,” consisting of a bevy of antiquated telephones, typewriters and other examples of technological advances that the society gathered from area residents.
Historical society president Katherine Padgett said given the turnout it amassed for this ice cream social, the society is contemplating converting it into an annual event.
For more information about the La Grange Area Historical Society, visit www. lagrangehistory.org.
Of all the months, October is my favorite.
It’s that time of year when “Lincoln Park after dark” is the nail color of the season, everything is pumpkin, soups are what’s for dinner, and spooky vibes are a plenty.
One of my first memories of becoming enamored with the spooky season was when I was just 6 years old.
Around Halloween, our mom would take us for strolls at the Hinsdale Pet Cemetery right off of 63rd Street in Willowbrook. It was small, tucked away and of course, a touch spooky.
I absolutely loved going to this quaint furbaby graveyard—in fact, I’d beg her to take me. These spooky strolls were a watershed moment for me. From here on after, I would always be attracted to cemeteries—and the older, the better.
Fast-forward to around the age of 13, when I turned myself into a little witch thanks to the show Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
Do you remember Blue Feather in downtown La Grange? Yep, thanks to that shop, I was able to get all of the material needed to cast spells in my bedroom like a proper teenage witch.
Where did I get the spells, you may be wondering?—well, at the local bookstore, of course. Back in the day, there was a Walden
Books in Garden Market of Western Springs, and believe it or not, there was an entire shelf committed to spell-books.
It seemed that the suburbs were the perfect place for a curious little witch like myself. Who knew?
As I got older, my love for wandering cemeteries and perusing spell books never really faded.
These macabre tendencies seem to be a bit more mainstream these days as well.
In fact, if you head to your local Target’s book section, you’ll likely find tarot cards, as well as one of my favorite books: The Green Witch, Your Guide to Natural Magic. You should pick up a copy.
Thanks to TikTok, or should I say WitchTok, this spooky way of life is a bit more of the norm. Popular podcasts like “The Comfy Cozy Witch” are a lovely auditory escape into the world of a mom who also happens to be a witch. Tune into an episode; you’ll love it!
This teenage witch will turn 40 this month, with a new baby in tow. Luna will grow up taking strolls in cemeteries just like I did, and later this month, we’ll head to the East Coast for a fall extravaganza. You better believe we’re hitting up Salem.
If you ask me, we all have a little inner witch in us.
And now, you may not be casting spells, but I can bet my bottom dollar you’ll be crafting cocktails, and I have just the one for you. It happens to be a Sister Project favorite—it’s basically fall in a champagne flute.
Perhaps this season, buy a deck of tarot cards, light up your fire-pit, shake up some cocktails, and host your favorite friends over for a spooky soiree.
‘Tis the season to be witchy.
Stay cozy—and stay spooky.
Lauren
• 1 oz. of apple brandy (Laird’s 80-proof brandy is a great option)
• 1 oz. of cinnamon simple syrup (details below)
• 1 oz. of freshly-squeezed lemon- or lime-juice
• Prosecco
1. 24 hours in advance: Make your cinnamon simple syrup. Mix 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of hot water until sugar is dissolved. Pour simple syrup into a mason jar, add 6 cinnamon sticks, and place in the refrigerator for at least a full day.
2. In the meantime, be sure to have your Prosecco chilling.
3. Create your cocktail. Pour brandy, lemon and cinnamon simple syrup into your shaker.
4. Add ice almost to the top of your shaker, cover and shake.
5. From the shaker, pour your ingredients into your glass of choice.
6. Carefully open your bottle of Prosecco, and top off your cocktail with a vigorous pour of Prosecco.
7. Place a cinnamon stick in your cocktail, and enjoy!
Michelle Anderson and Lauren Massarella operate The Sister Project blog and host a podcast, “Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project.” Anderson and Massarella author a monthly column for Hillgrove Avenue Magazine.
