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OAK BROOK MAGAZINE January/February Issue 2023 $5 US

Allison Rosati Master of Ceremonies: Infant Welfare Society's Mistletoe Medley

Butler School District 53 Thrives 2022 Year in Review New Beginnings: Adoptive Families

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Our efforts come in a variety of forms, from financial investments to support economic growth, to traditional philanthropy and volunteer hours contributed by our team members. We strive to provide community banking as it should be.

LETTER from THE PUBLISHER

Celebrating Our First Year

his January 2023 Oak Brook Magazine marks our 6th issue. It features Allison Rosati on the cover as she hosts the Oak Brook Infant Welfare Fashion Show on the group’s 50th anniversary. Time passes quickly when you are busy, having fun, and satisfying the people you are serving from our readers to our advertisers to everyone in the community.

A Look At Our First Issues We started by publishing Dick Portillo on our first cover. He is the quintessential entrepreneur in Oak Brook, a town filled with more than its fair share of success stories. We coupled his story with a focus on Oak Brook as a dining mecca. For good measure, we added his fellow restauranteur Rich Melman, and his Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group of Oak Brook restaurants.

OAK BROOK MAGAZINE January/February Issue 2023 $5 US

We devoted the second issue to Paul Butler, the father and visionary of Oak Brook. If it wasn’t for him, and the people he was smart enough to surround himself with, we wouldn’t have the special community that has become Oak Brook. Can you think of another town, especially a small one, which has so many attractive amenities? Speaking of attractive amenities, our third issue focused on the fact that our Oakbrook Center, one of the premier shopping centers in America, turned 60 years in 2022. Our fourth issue put the spotlight on the Oak Brook Park District. It turned 60 years old also and atracts a large share of its membership from neighboring communities. We also brought readers up to date on Premier Athletic Management and their soccer program which is making great use of soccer fields and adding revenue to the entire business community. Our fifth issue gave you an inside look at one of the largest non-profit organizations in the world, Lions International. The organization is headquartered in Oak Brook and supports and inspires 1.4 million Lions Club volunteers around the world to help people in need. It is symbolic of the types of organizations that have chosen Oak Brook as their home. We also reported on the 100th anniversary of the Oak Brook Polo Club, and another Butler entity, Friends of Conservation,

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

as it celebrated 40 years of supporting the preservation of wildlife, and land helping the natives of Masai Mara in Kenya prosper. In this same issue, we couldn’t resist another helping of Oakbrook Center, thanks to the efforts of our very active Oak Brook Historical Society. They invited Tim Geiges, Senior Manager of the property, to update everyone on what has been going on recently, and what is in store for the future, as Oakbrook Center diversifies its makeup of stores to make it a prime destination for not only shopping but unique entertainment and leisure activities. His presentation was not only informative, it was optimistic, as he explained how the shopping center has smartly diversified.

Allison Rosati Master of Ceremonies: Infant Welfare Society's Mistletoe Medley

For good measure, we told you about the success of Kelly Cruises and Tours, as entrepreneurs Nancy Kelly and her daughter Susan, have carved out a niche as experts in luxury travel around the world.

More Current Topics Of Note

Butler School District 53 Thrives

This brings us to this current issue. As mentioned, we cover the Oak Brook Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society as they celebrate 50 years of fundraising. The Drake Oak Brook received high honors as one of the fine hotels in the world, and the U.S. Department of Education awarded Brook Forest school with its second National Blue Ribbon Award for overall academic excellence. 2022 Year in Review

New Beginnings: Adoptive Families

We also give you the back story behind the famous fountain at the center of Oakbrook Center. All in all, you would have to say, Oak Brook is a very nice place to live, work, play, and enjoy life. Last, but certainly not least, we also share a remembrance of Michael Butler, the son of Paul Butler, and brother to Jorie Butler Kent, who passed away on November 7 at age 96. Thank you for reading and supporting Oak Brook Magazine. Scott Jonlich Founder & Publisher sjonlich@HinsdaleMag.com

January/February 2023

Contents 53

14 TO-DOS Wander Through Winter

17 INSIDE 60523 The Oakbrook Center Fountain

21 EDUCATION Butler District 53

25 SPECIAL FEATURE Four Families and Their Adoptive Families

30 COVER STORY Oak Brook Infant Welfare Fashion Show Success

30 48

37 OAK BROOK MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW Popular Stories in 2022

48 TRIBUTE Michael Butler

53 SNAPSHOT Independent And Private Schools Thrive

61 SPOTLIGHT Cupid Courts Misericordia

63 CHEF SHOWCASE Chef Beau Blackburn

64 TRAVEL Plant Life Journey

On the Cover: Allison Rosati Photo by Marcello Rodarte

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No person, organization or publication can copy or re-produce the content in this magazine or any part of this publication without a written consent from the publisher. The publisher, authors, contributors and designers reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. Comments are welcome, but they should be on-topic and well-expressed. Copyright ©2022 Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

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TO-DOS

WANDERING THROUGH WINTER BY ABBEY HAYES | IMAGE BY TIMOTHY EBERLY

Although staying home for the winter sounds quite ideal, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during the colder months. We put together a list of winter activities to ensure everyone has something to look forward to this season. Coordinate with friends and family to make some memories this winter. Sledding in Downers Grove

Dgparks.org | 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Grab a sled and head to Downers Grove for a day of family-friendly fun. Sledding is available at Gilbert Park, Ebersold Park, and Concord Park. Please check the safety of the hill before sledding.

Ice Skating in Hinsdale

Villageofhinsdale.org | Weather Permitting Enjoy ice skating at Burns Field in Hinsdale. Please check the signs before skating to determine if the ice rink is open. The warming house is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the weekends.

Hansel and Gretel

Lyric Opera House | Lyricopera.org 1/25/23-2/05/23 Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel is back for a limited time at the historic Lyric Opera House. This production is sung in German and there are projected English titles. Showtimes vary by date.

Ice Fest 2023

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTY SOHL AND THE METROPOLITAN OPERA

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

Downers Grove | Downtowndg.org | 2/3/23-2/5/23 Various ice sculptures will be on display throughout Downtown Downers Grove. Be sure to check out the live ice sculpting demonstration too.

TO-DOS

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OAK BROOK PARK DISTRICT

Great Midwest Train Show

DuPage Event Center & Fairgrounds | Dupagecountyfair.org | 2/5/23 This is a must-see show for anyone that loves trains. Viewers can enjoy hundreds of tables of trains. All ages are welcome.

Nature Date Night: Romantic Night Hike

Fullersburg Woods | Dupageforest.org 2/10/23 & 2/11/23 Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a romantic hike in Fullersburg Woods. This candle-lit hike ends with hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows over a fire. This is an event for ages 18 and older. The hike begins at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. Registration is available online.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WESTMONT PARK DISTRICT

Tackle the Tri

Oak Brook Park District | Obparks.org 2/12/23 This triathlon is different from others as it does not include swimming. Participants will row 2,000 meters, cycle 2.5 miles, and run/walk 1.25 miles. Ages 12 and up can participate.

Winter Beer Festival

Ty Warner ParkVWestmontparks.org 2/18/23 3-7 p.m. Gather friends for an evening of craft beer, food trucks, and fun. Be sure to register online. Designated drivers can purchase a ticket at a discounted rate.

Morton Arboretum

Lisle | Mortonarb.org Get some fresh air and enjoy a walk through the trees. The Morton Arboretum offers breathtaking views in the winter. Dogs are welcome at the arboretum on 1/22/23. ■

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INSIDE 60523

A Perfect Flow Oakbrook Center fountain keeps its place year-round

BY CHUCK FIELDMAN PHOTO COURTESY OF OAKBROOK CENTER

here are many things people often tire of seeing after many years.

But the fountain at Oakbrook center, located just outside of Crate and Barrel and adjacent to the mall’s village green area, certainly isn’t one of those. It always seems to be a popular spot for shoppers to stop during their shopping visits at the mall. “The fountain serves as a gather place for the community,” said Tim Geiges, senior general manager of Oakbrook Center. “It provides a relaxing environment and contributes to our overall park-like atmosphere.”

fountain, he said. It’s called a vortex fountain because of the way water swirls inside. Geiges said 4.9 million gallons of water are recycled through the vortex fountain each day. And all of that water is heated, which allows the fountain to operate 365 days a year and provide a synchronized water display.

Don Richardson of Rockford agrees with that sentiment. Richardson said he usually visits Oakbrook Center twice a year to shop. And the fountain is one of his favorite places.

“We change the lighting color during our holiday season to compliment our holiday décor throughout the center,” he said. “Our team does an outstanding job of maintaining the fountain, since it is a centerpiece of Oakbrook Center.”

“There’s just something about it that is very peaceful and relaxing,” he said. “It’s always there, and I always come and look and usually stay for 5 to 10 minutes to look at it and just take it all in. And I like knowing that it will be here when I come back the next time, too.”

The jets inside the fountain that spray the water into the air, up to about 50 feet, are controlled by computer and regulated for height based on readings from a wind sensor, Geiges said. He said coins thrown into the fountain by visitors are collected once or twice a year and given to charities.

Oakbrook Center opened to shoppers in 1962 and always has had a fountain, Geiges said. But there was an upgrade in 2014 to what is called a vortex

“We’re looking for ways to clean the coins before donating,” Geiges said. He said 89,549 feet – or nearly 17 miles

– of rebar were needed to construct the vortex fountain. “That’s enough rebar to stretch all the way from Oakbrook Center to the United Center,” he said. Oak Brook Village President Gopal Lalmalani said having the fountain at Oakbrook Center makes the shopping experience there truly unique. “At the heart of the mall is the most visually appealing vortex-inspired fountain and water jets that are truly one of a kind,” he said. “Along with the exquisite landscape, the fountain that is operational year-round, including during the frigid cold weather, makes the mall the place to be for our visitors and residents.” Cheryl Geyer of Aurora said she has been shopping at Oakbrook center since she was a child and now enjoys bringing her own two children, ages 12 and 8, there. “They always want to go and see the fountain; it’s their favorite part of going to the mall,” she said. “If they get to spend a little time at the fountain and maybe get a snack or treat, they’re quite happy.” ■

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EDUCATION

Academic Excellence Butler District 53 continues to shine BY CHUCK FIELDMAN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF BUTLER DISTRICT 53

ost schools in the country likely never will be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education with a National Blue Ribbon Award for overall academic excellence. But when Brook Forest School in Oak Brook was selected in the fall for the second time, it joined Butler Elementary School District 53’s Butler Junior High as a two-time winner. Brook Forest previously received the

Brook Forest School

award in 2014, and Butler Junior High was recognized in 2015 and 2021. The National Blue Ribbon School accolades make for an impressive note on District 53’s resume, but the two-school Oak Brook elementary district has been known as one of the state’s top performing for a long time. “District 53 has been able to maintain its position as one of the state’s highest performing elementary dis-

tricts because of our talented and dedicated faculty and staff who personalize learning for our students,” District 53 Superintendent Paul O’Malley said. “Coupled with our committed teachers, our students strive to achieve their highest potential each and every day within our buildings, always giving the extra mile for themselves and their peers.” O’Malley said that through smaller class sizes, the district’s teachers and students collaborate on individual learning opportunities, growth goals,

EDUCATION

and a personalized approach to learning. “Additionally, we are very fortunate to have a strong partnership with our parents, who carry on their children’s learning at home,” he said. Alan Hanzlik, who served on the School Board from 2009 to 2017, including a run as President from 2010 to 2017, noted some of the same reasons that he believes have allowed the continued outstanding academic performance in the district. Hanzlik said he believes several factors must work in harmony for a school district to be a consistent high performer. He said those factors are:

Above: Butler Junior High has smart boards in classroom. Left: Students reading at Brook Forest School

• A strong home support structure that values education

automatic. “Ensuring that this level of academic achievement continues maintains a priority for our Board of Education, administrative team, and faculty and staff,” O’Malley said. “District 53 prides itself on creating a culture of excellence in education that encourages creativity and lifelong learning in our students. To that end, we continually evaluate our curriculum across grade levels and subject areas to ensure that the district continuously improves and innovates. When you are a high performing school district, the growth gains start to become incremental as opposed to large leaps.”

• Parental involvement and interest in their children and in various aspects of the school, such as providing feedback, involvement in the PTO, and supporting activities. • An academic menu that is relevant for all levels and skills of the students. • Exceptional teachers and administrators who are supported and appreciated. • Adequate and consistent funding. • A knowledgeable and involved Board that recognizes multiple community mandates such as academic excellence, resource acquisition/ training, safety and effective cost management.

most recently working as superintendent of Norridge Elementary District 80.

“Butler 53 is fortunate to have had these traits over an extended period of time,” Hanzlik said.

“Prior to joining District 53, I had always heard about the high performance of the students, small class sizes, and commitment to academic excellence,” O’Malley said. “Not only was I intrigued by the academic reputation of the district, but I was also very impressed by the family support of students in their academic pursuits.”

O’Malley said he knew of District 53’s outstanding reputation before he came to the district in 2019 from

While outstanding academic performance has continued consistently in District 53, it’s not something that’s

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Another challenge District 53 faces is continuing to live up to the high standards parents have come to expect. “Our parents expect a strong collaboration between home and school and we provide that,” O’Malley said. “We also know that each student can perform at their best through a personalized approach to learning. We partner with our parents to set individual growth plans and academic goals for our students to achieve their personal best.” ■

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SPECIAL FEATURE

New Beginnings Adoption offers a hopeful, new start

“Y

es, adoption makes me special, it means that I am loved,” wrote author Sharlie Zinniger in her 2014 children’s book, Yes, I’m Adopted! For adoptive families and the children placed with them, adoption is a new beginning of the greatest kind. An adopted child brings the promise of a new life, a permanent enrichment to a family. The process can be rigorous, the challenges great- but the bonds created are forever. While the greatest number of children in this country are adopted in infancy, there are scores of older children available for placement. If you’re lucky, a child crosses your path by chance, as was the case of former Downers Grove resident, Colleen Thaiss, along with her husband, Eric, and daughter, Caroline. A mutual friend introduced the family to eight-year-old Madeline through

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

the couple who had assumed temporary guardianship of her after her mother passed. The sweet, bright-eyed girl began spending time with them. Ten-year-old Caroline loved having someone to play with. The more they got to know Madeline, the more they wanted her to stay. “2019 was the year we were awarded permanent guardianship of Madeline and the one that forever changed us as a family,” said Eric. “It not only grew us from a three to four-person unit, but in many ways, completed us as a family.” Colleen and Eric both grew up with siblings and treasure their relationships with them. They were so happy that Caroline could have one of those lifelong relationships - born from shared experiences - good and bad, small and large - that can only be lived, shared and remembered with a sibling. “Our extended families have come to know Madeline and love her. She

is a wonderful new cousin, niece, and granddaughter,” said Colleen. “We will always love, support and encourage her.” For her part, when Madeline’s sixthgrade teacher asked her what she is happiest about, she replied with enthusiasm, “I’m always thankful to be a Thaiss! I’m happy to be adopted.” On the heels of National Adoption Awareness Month (November), Contributing Editor, Maureen Callahan, spoke to three local adoptive families. These are their personal stories, as relayed in their own words. KELLY JAMES, MOTHER OF RYAN AND HALEY ENGER – DOWNERS GROVE Adoption had been on my radar since college, so when my former husband, Erik (who died in 2020), and I were unable to have children the biological way, the idea seemed very natural to me. It took Erik a little longer to get comfortable with the idea, but he really wanted to be a dad. We knew we wanted to adopt a newborn, so the most challenging part was finding a woman who was expecting a baby to choose us to be her baby’s parents. That process is a roller coaster. With Ryan, his first mom chose us and seven weeks later, he was born! I didn’t realize how lucky we were the first time. With Haley, it took us more than three years, and five failed matches (where the mom changed her mind and decided to parent).

THE THAISS FAMILY: CAROLINE, COLLEEN, ERIC, MADELINE AND THEIR DOG BAILEY

Parenting is an awesome responsibility but having someone place her baby with you and trust you with her child ups the ante. You are always mindful of that gift, and that responsibility- to be the best parent you can to this child

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SPECIAL FEATURE

to be my kids’ “mama” every day. CATHLEEN HOFMANN, MOTHER OF BRIAN, JOHN, AND DANIEL – HINSDALE I see my adoption story as one of divine intervention. I had just moved to Hinsdale and hadn’t met many people. A neighbor invited me to join a spiritual group at St Isaac Jogues. I told the group that I was having trouble figuring out my life’s purpose as I seemed unable to have more than my first child. A woman approached me after the meeting. She said she knew a father of a child looking to place his baby for adoption. The child would become our second son, John.

KELLY JAMES AND HER ADOPTED CHILDREN, RYAN AND HALEY ENGER

whom you both love. The biggest piece of advice I have for anyone wanting to adopt is to be clear about your level of comfort if you choose an open adoption. Don’t promise anything you can’t embrace. I knew that we wanted to have an open adoption, and Ryan’s first parents (and later, Haley’s first mom) wanted the same. We weren’t sure what that might look like, but initially promised an annual visit, letters, and photos. It’s grown to be much more than that, and my children’s first families are part of our family now, and vice versa. The way our family has grown has been an amazing experience, and one that I did not expect. I always say that being a parent is an adventure. I feel like Erik and I got to have an even bigger adventure by choosing adoption.

mendous loss by choosing adoption. I think you must be willing to recognize and accept that as a parent by adoption, and respect the person, or people, who made your life possible. When Haley was a newborn, someone made a comment about how beautiful she was and that she couldn’t believe that “someone could give her up.” That rubbed me the wrong way. I said, “well, if her first mom (and Ryan’s first mom, too) hadn’t made the decision to choose adoption, I wouldn’t be a parent.” Without Jodi and Chaleigh, I wouldn’t be a mom- and I’m grateful

I didn’t physically create my children, but I see myself in them all the time. They have some of my mannerisms. My kids talk like I do. Sometimes they act like I do. I joke that I can brag about how gorgeous they are because I had nothing to do with their looks! But I’m most proud of the amazing human beings they’re turning out to be, because I feel like I do have something (hopefully a lot!) to do with that. I am always aware, though, that my kids’ first parents experienced a tre26

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THE HOFMANN FAMILY: BRIAN, JOHN, DANNY, CATHY AND STEVE WITH THEIR DOG OLAF

Through a social worker, my husband and I offered to take care of the couple financially until the baby arrived. Everything seemed to be going well until the birth parents suddenly changed their minds and promised the baby to another couple. For ten days, I was devastated. It was the saddest I have ever been. Then they came back and said they would reconsider us if we would agree to an open adoption. We negotiated the terms to include photos and letters every three months for the first year. We also made an

SPECIAL FEATURE

agreement that he had someone on the could reach out at the radar and if it worked age of 18 if John wished. out, it would be the fastWe wanted it to be on est adoption he would his terms. have in his 40 years of For our second adoption practice. And it worked – COLLEEN THAISS ON HER 11-YEAR-OLD ADOPTED DAUGHTER. and third son, Daniel, the out! process was totally differour first son, Cole Joseph. He was a perent. We worked with We were at the hospital Angel Adoption Agency in Cary, IL. I fect newborn. when he was born. We named him was supposed to meet the birth mother Henry Cole, with his middle name as a on the morning of 9/11, which was can- Three days later, the trouble started. tribute to his late brother. His birth celled for obvious reasons. This was to be He became violently ill, so we took him mother was very organized. She had her third child. Once again, we worked back to the hospital. His kidneys began written letters to the doctors and nurses with a social worker to offer the birth shutting down and a myriad of medi- with detailed instructions to bring him mother and her children assistance for cal issues kept him from getting better. to us right away. She had also written the duration of her pregnancy. It all went We finally brought him home at six beautiful letters to Henry about why weeks old. He was on dialysis twelve she wanted my husband and I to be his very smoothly the second time. hours a night. He couldn’t eat and his parents, which we have for him. We are I told my sons their adoption stories from day one. Every adoptive parent handles their adoption story differently when communicating it to their children. I wanted mine to know from the beginning that they didn’t grow in my body, but in my heart. And I wanted them to know how much we appreciated the wonderful- and very difficultdecision, that their birth parents made. We’re very, very grateful to them.

“Madeline continues to blossom, knowing that she is a permanent part of our family”

Adoption has been the greatest gift for us. It is the option to grow a family and create faith and love. As much as you’re giving this child, the child gives back to you. The process can be rigorous. It’s hard when you get turned down. But we’re strong. We got through it and came away with an amazing, life-altering situation! MICHELE VIDA, MOTHER OF COLE AND HENRY VIDA – OAK BROOK My husband Joe and I married later in life. We were unable to have children, so we decided to adopt. We put together a profile book of family values and photos, so someone could see who we were as a couple. We got set up with an adoption lawyer and within one day of submitting everything, we learned of a woman who was interested in adopting her baby to us. We drove to the hospital in Indiana where she was in labor with

COLE JOSEPH, LATE SON OF MICHELE AND JOE VIDA

THE VIDA FAMILY: MICHELE, HENRY AND JOE 2019

milk had to be decanted because he couldn’t have any potassium. We were in and out of Comer Children’s Hospital twice a week for nephrology, oncology, and dialysis. All the while, he was so happy and beautiful. But he slipped away soon after. Obviously devastated, we left town a lot just to create diversions. We had been in touch with our lawyer, as he often called to check in when Cole was sick. We decided to try adopting once more. One day, as I was at the cemetery to check on Cole’s grave, the attorney called again and said he

still in touch with Henry’s birth mother. He hasn’t met her yet, but we are working out the details of getting them together. It’s really a beautiful situation. I honestly don’t know what would have happened if we had not adopted Henry. One child does not replace another, and Henry is very aware of his older brother, Cole, who is part of our journey as a family. We gave him eighteen months of a precious life. Nothing will ever take him from our hearts and minds. And we are just so very thankful for Henry. ■

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COVER STORY

Angel Harvey Family Health Center

A Potent Partnership:

Fundraising & Friendship Oak Brook Infant Welfare Fashion Show Success BY OAK BROOK MAGAZINE STAFF

his year, the Oak Brook Chapter of the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago marks its 50th anniversary. Decade after decade, hundreds of women have gathered at Drury Lane the Tuesday after Thanksgiving for its signature fundraiser fashion show, Mistletoe Medley, showing their support for children and families in need.

The Oak Brook Chapter reports that its 2022 “Hearts of Gold” event, held on November 29, raised over $170,000, bringing the group’s cumulative donations to the Infant Welfare Society to an astounding $5 million in 50 years. For over a decade, Allison Rosati, a well-known media personality and anchor of the NBC 5 Nightly News has served as Master of Ceremonies.

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

She speaks warmly and knowledgeably about the Oak Brook Chapter and Mistletoe Medley. “The most important driving force for me is the sense of community at the event. It struck me the first time I emceed the event. My immediate reaction was: WOW, this is really big.” “My favorite part is the renewal of friendships and familiar faces again and again. It is very powerful to real-

COVER STORY

Allison Rosati, Master of Ceremonies

ize that a lot of money can be raised because so many people believe and care. You can feel it in the room. I see people returning because they want to help make a difference in the lives of people who need help. There is a genuine kindness involved.” Allison added, “If you haven’t attended Mistletoe Medley, plan to do so next year. You won’t be disappointed!” Chapter Co-Presidents Marge Tresley and Linda Layland agree and feel fortunate the benefit has a loyal following in the Oak Brook area and far beyond. Marge says, “From the moment our Event Committee began planning this year’s fundraiser, it was all about our 50th anniversary and the people who enabled

us to reach this remarkable milestone, starting with the name itself, ‘Hearts of Gold’, a well-deserved tribute to our members, donors, and friends.” Linda continues, “This celebratory mindset affected every aspect of Mistletoe Medley, including our invitations and Ad Book, raffles, centerpieces, our Holiday Boutique, and the fashion show. We wanted this event to reflect the occasion’s significance — to be one for the record books — and we think it was.” The group also expanded its fundraising horizons with a “Giving Week” from December 10-17 among Oakbrook Center locations: C. D. Peacock, Kendra Scott, Lilly Pulitzer, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, OAK BROOK MAGAZINE | www.OakBrookMagazine.com

COVER STORY

Pictures front row from L-R, Nancy Nielsen, Heidi Huizenga, Kim Landego, Merry Cheng. Second row from L-R, Linda Giordano, Laura Sterling, Nancy Aman, Mary Bergstrom, Wendy Tu

Left to right: Linda Layland and Marge Tresley, Oak Brook Chapter Co-Presidents, with Liz Berglund, Auxiliary Co-President

and Antico Posto. Chapter members are understandably proud to mark a half-century of fundraising and friendship. They say hosting an event that brings people together to do good, feel good, and make a difference is a wonderful feeling. Auxiliary Co-President Liz Berglund added that the Chapter’s fundraising has enabled the Infant Welfare Society’s Angel Harvey Family Health Center to considerably expand medical, dental, and child development services. Last year, the Center served nearly 13,000 patients with a wide spectrum of services such as the CHAT Program that provides customized care for children with developmental delays, orthodontia, the new AngelBaby program for mothers/newborns 32

Models show off latest fashions

care, and Comer Sano (Eat Healthy). This program helps high-risk children address obesity before it becomes a lifelong issue. ■

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THE FULLER FAMILY DECADES OF SERVICE

SERVING THE HINSDALE AREA SINCE 1946

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Oak Brook Hotel, Convention and Visitors Committee

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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FIRST YEAR OF

OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

t has been a privilege to bring you our first first year of Oak Brook Magazine on an every-other month basis. With this issue we have completed our first year.

We have come to know how special a community this is, starting with the vision of Paul Butler and others, to the notable residents, to amenities that make up the sports core, to the large number of elegant homes in gated communities. We have come to know and appreciate the village government, and the number of fine businesses headquartered here. For shopping, Oakbrook Center is second to none in the quality of stores and variety of entertainment. In addition to the sports core, Oak Brook has a marvelous Park District and the village is known as a mecca for dining. We have come to appreciate Oak Brook and have enjoyed meeting and learning from so many. We look forward to our continued work with the community as we bring more stories to you!

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE Premier Issue 2022 $5 US

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE June/July Issue 2022 $5 US

DICK PORTILLO An American Success Story

RESTAURANT WEEK Oak Brook Dining OAK BROOK Women’s Club

GOPAL LALMALANI Oak Brook President ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT West Suburban Symphony

TRUSTEE MIKE MANZO Takes On Red Light Cameras GREG SUMMERS Village Manager

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE October/November Issue 2022 $5 US

PAUL BUTLER

The Founder of Oak Brook… and much more

Oak Brook Polo 100 Years!

Before Oak Brook there was Fullersburg

Women Who Shaped Oak Brook

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE December Issue 2022 $5 US

OAK BROOK MAGAZINE January/February Issue 2023 $5 US

Brian Sheehan, International Lions President

Oak Brook Park District

CELEBRATES

Sixty

Sharon Knitter & Laure Kosey Lead the Charge

Premiere Athletic Management Entrepreneur Maggie Gerth takes to the soccer fields PROPS Luggage Founder

Mistletoe Medley Hearts of Gold

Lions Roar

Brian Sheehan Leads Lions Club International Volunteers Worldwide

Oakbrook Center Outlook Bright

Polo Club Celebrates 100, Friends of Conservation is 40

Drake Oak Brook Honored

Allison Rosati Master of Ceremonies: Infant Welfare Society's Mistletoe Medley

Butler School District 53 Thrives 2022 Year in Review New Beginnings: Adoptive Families

OAK BROOK MAGAZINE | www.OakBrookMagazine.com

2022 FEA

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ick Portillo has met a lot of famous people during his 80 years. One he never met is Frank Sinatra. Frank’s gone, but one of his most memorable songs is “MY WAY”. Opening lyrics include these words: “My friend, I’ll make it clear I’ll state my case of which I am certain I’ve lived a life that’s full I traveled each and every highway And more, much more I did it, I did it my way Regrets, I’ve had a few But then again, too few to mention I did what I had to do And saw it through without exemption I planned each charted course Each careful step along the byway And more, much, much more I did it, I did it my way Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew When I bit off more than I could chew And through it all, whenever there was doubt I ate it up and spit it out I faced it all and I stood tall And did it, did it my way I’ve loved, laughed and cried I had my fill, my share of losing And now, as tears subside I find that it’s all so amusing And to think I did all that And may I say not in a shy way No, no, not me I did it my way For what is a man, what has he got If not himself, then he has naught Not to say the things that he truly feels And not the words of someone who kneels The record shows I took all the blows And did it my way” Source:LyricFind Songwriters: Claude Francois / Gilles Thibaut / Jacques Revaux / Paul Anka

Original story continues here: › 38

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE Premier Issue 2022 $5 US

DICK PORTILLO An American Success Story

RESTAURANT WEEK Oak Brook Dining OAK BROOK Women’s Club

GOPAL LALMALANI Oak Brook President ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT West Suburban Symphony

TRUSTEE MIKE MANZO Takes On Red Light Cameras GREG SUMMERS Village Manager

2022 FEA

TUR

or a town of less than 10,000 residents, Oak Brook has become very well known for its restaurants, even restaurant chain headquarters. And, we want to celebrate Restaurant Week, April 22-30, with you. How Oak Brook A Dining Mecca

Became

It all started with the vision of Paul Butler who wanted to create an upscale community where people of means could live, work, play, shop, and enjoy the finer things in life…to include dining. It even became a focal point for 47 years as the headquarters of the largest restaurant chain in the world… McDonald’s. This development as a dining center didn’t happen overnight. In fact, it has taken decades. While Paul Butler set an enviable foundation with his vision for Oak Brook as a village, Oak Brook dining could have never happened unless Chicago itself hadn’t become a draw for restaurants and restaurateurs.

A Dining Mecca of over 65 Restaurants

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VISIT OHOAKBROOK.COM FOR A LIST OF PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

According to Phil Vettel, Chicago Tribune dining critic for 31 years, “I had a ring-side seat and watched as Chicago evolved. Top chefs like Rick Bayless came to town, after spending years in Mexico learning how to prepare authentic Mexican fare. Others, like Charlie Trotter, were self-taught. Still, others learned at locations like Gordon’s, who in turn, taught the likes of John Terzcak, Ron Blazek, Michael Smith, Stewart Parsons, and Don Yamauchi.” Of course, one of the most well-

‹ Original story continues here: OAK BROOK MAGAZINE | www.OakBrookMagazine.com

2022 FEA

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nce upon a time, spanning much of the 20th century, a true visionary came on the scene in what is now the Village of Oak Brook. Paul Butler was the Father of Oak Brook—but he accomplished a whole lot more. What follows is a reminder of some of what he did, and how he did it all. Karen Bushy, the last president of Oak Brook to know and spend time with Butler, has contributed many of the observations in this piece. Bushy was a person that Butler trusted during the years when his ideas were being translated into reality, as the dream began to be implemented on the scale he had imagined. Bushy met Butler shortly after moving to Oak Brook in 1973. They became good friends and remained so for the rest of Butler’s life. The Butler Paper Company Before there was a Paul Butler, there was the Butler Paper Company. Butler’s grandfather Julius Wales Butler and great uncle Oliver Morris Butler founded the J.W. Butler Paper Co. in the 1800s in the Chicago area. It grew to become one of the largest family-owned paper companies in the country until Paul Butler sold it in 1960. Nevertheless, Butler Paper was the foundation that enabled Butler to add companies and follow pursuits in a number of eclectic directions.

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE June/July Issue 2022 $5 US

Paul Butler arrives on the scene Tom and Mary Sterling, authors of Hinsdale & the World, relate that Butler was born on June 23, 1892 to Frank and Fannie Butler of Original story continues here: › 40

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

PAUL BUTLER

The Founder of Oak Brook… and much more

Oak Brook Polo 100 Years!

Before Oak Brook there was Fullersburg

Women Who Shaped Oak Brook

2022 FEA

TUR

f your wife’s first name was Merry, and your first name was Richard, and you wanted to open a jewelry store, would you consider naming it Merry Richards Jewelers? Well, that’s exactly what Merry and Richard Cheng did in 1985. It just seemed obvious and natural. According to Richard: “We also got a little encouragement from the Mary Tyler Moore tv show. Mary’s maiden name was Mary Richards.”

Why are they so successful? As it turns out, Merry Richards has turned out to be the perfect name for what they do so well. In fact, the very first thing Merry said when we sat down with the couple was, “Let me tell you. We love the business we’re in because our customers are happy when they come in. They want to celebrate a happy occasion, like a wedding, or an anniversary, or a birthday, or something they want to remember, and they want to do it with jewelry. When they leave, they are even happier, because we have given them good advice on the jewelry they are looking for, we give them beautiful gems in custom settings that they like very much, and we give them a good value for the money. The way I spell my name, Merry, says happy; so It works.” Richard adds, “We get great satisfaction from helping people celebrate. Our customers like our approach. We never push. They tell others. We are very fortunate that they have spread the word.” Simply put, the name, how they care for customers, along with valuable help along the way, and a lot of hard

‹ Original story continues here: OAK BROOK MAGAZINE | www.OakBrookMagazine.com

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OAKBROOK CENTER Shares bright future with Historical Society BY LARRY ATSEFF I PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREG KOZLICK AND OAKBROOK CENTER

im Geiges, Senior General Manager of Oakbrook Center, impressed a very attentive Oak Brook Historical Society crowd with the latest progress at the iconic shopping center. Thanks to the efforts of Historical Society Director of Development, Marci Spingola, the timing of the October 16 presentation at the Village Hall auditorium couldn’t have been better, since the holiday shopping season is right around the corner. Geiges remarked, “For the past ten years, Brookfield Properties has been transforming Oakbrook Center into a true marketplace of the future, bringing together a curated collection of high-profile retailers, including Louis Vuitton,

Burberry, David Yurman, Gucci, and now, a new CHANEL Fragrance & Beauty boutique. A highly successful restaurant row, and new categories like entertainment, and fitness, meet consumers’ daily needs and further enhance the surrounding community.” Opened in 1962 with then-anchor stores Sears and Marshall Field, Oakbrook Center is the secondlargest shopping center in the Chicago metropolitan area, generating over $800 million in retail sales annually. The welllocated shopping destination — with easy access across Chicago’s western suburbs — is also the most visited retail venue in the greater Chicago area, drawing shoppers from nearby hotels, convention centers, and office buildings. Original story continues here: ›

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

2022 FEA

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he Oak Brook Park District is celebrating being 60 years young this year. All 173 acres of it, with beautiful, spacious grounds and an unmatched array of facilities and activities for everyone to enjoy year-round. Complete with an award-winning staff to help you thoroughly enjoy it all. The 60th-anniversary celebration started by dedicating its Summer Concert Series to ‘60s music. The Summer Concert Series alone celebrated 40 years of performances. Haley Colucci, Marketing and Communications Manager, said, “It was such a joy to watch our community celebrate the Park District’s 60th this year at the ‘Celebrating the ‘60s Summer Concert Series.’ We are looking forward to continuing the festivities on Friday, November 4. Be sure to check the Oak Brook Park District’s website for the details.” Friday, November 4 Open House

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE October/November Issue 2022 $5 US

Oak Brook Park District

CELEBRATES

Sixty

Sharon Knitter & Laure Kosey Lead the Charge

Premiere Athletic Management Entrepreneur Maggie Gerth takes to the soccer fields PROPS Luggage Founder

Mistletoe Medley Hearts of Gold

The Park District will have several themed activities starting October 31 and throughout the week. On Friday, November 4, there will be an Open House at the Family Recreation Center, complete with food, beverages, games, raffles, and fitness-related activities that the whole family can enjoy. The day will end with a “Flick and Float” at the Family Aquatic Center. Much To Celebrate There is no question that over its 60 years, the Park District has worked extremely hard on its mission: to provide the best in park and

‹ Original story continues here: OAK BROOK MAGAZINE | www.OakBrookMagazine.com

2022 FEA

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id you know that the headquarters of the largest volunteer service organization in the world is located right in Oak Brook? We are referring to Lions International which was started in 1917. A sidebar lists just a few key milestones, including locating in Oak Brook in 1971. You are about to learn how just 300 employees, in a small, unassuming two-story building at the corner of 22nd Street and York Road in Oak Brook, provide unparalleled support, guidance, and encouragement to an astonishing 1.4 million volunteers in nearly 50,000 clubs around the world. Read that again. Even more important, you are also going to learn how you can become involved locally with this extraordinary group as a local Lion volunteer and/or as a donor to local causes as they push forward into 2023, in our area, with a renewed effort. Why Have Lions Clubs Succeeded So Well, For More Than A Century? For an answer to that key question, we spoke to Sanjeev (s-uh-n-j-ee-v) Ahuja, Executive Administrator of Lions International, who has a great vantage point of the entire enterprise. As he put it, “First and foremost is the positive mindset of Lions, from top to bottom. Lions have a desire/ passion for helping people deal with local and global issues. They provide physical hands-on local support Original story continues here: ›

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

OAK BROOK'S FIRST MAGAZINE December Issue 2022 $5 US

Brian Sheehan, International Lions President

Lions Roar

Brian Sheehan Leads Lions Club International Volunteers Worldwide

Oakbrook Center Outlook Bright

Polo Club Celebrates 100, Friends of Conservation is 40

Drake Oak Brook Honored

THE FULLER FAMILY DECADES OF SERVICE

SERVING THE HINSDALE AREA SINCE 1946

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TRIBUTE

Michael Butler, on one of his string of ponies, during a polo match.

Retrospective of

MICHAEL BUTLER BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BUTLER FAMILY, OAK BROOK POLO CLUB AND OAK BROOK HISTORICAL SOCIETY

ichael Butler, famed producer of the musical “Hair,” passed away peacefully on November 7, 2022, in Los Angeles, CA. He was born on November 26, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, to Paul Butler and Marjorie von Stresenreuter Butler. He grew up on a farm called

Natoma, which would later become part of Oak Brook. As the grandson and son of the founders of Oak Brook Polo Club, he and his sister Jorie Butler Kent managed the club for several years in the ’60s and ‘70s. Butler invited His Majesty King Charles III (then HRH. Prince Charles) to Oak Brook in 1986

www.OakBrookMagazine.com | OAK BROOK MAGAZINE

at which time His Majesty served as captain of the British team. Butler was a champion-caliber polo player who traveled the world to compete in matches. His interest in athletics led him to active participation in many sports beyond polo, including tennis and yachting. With his many connections and

TRIBUTE

Michael Butler enjoying time on his yacht Coradina.

interest in community and world affairs, Butler was involved in local and national politics. He served as an advisor to President Kennedy in the Middle East and was appointed by

Robert F. Kennedy to manage Governor Otto Kerner’s campaign for re-election as Governor of Illinois. He served in several other leadership positions in Illinois government and

civic-minded organizations, and national positions related to the game of polo. In 1967, on business in New York, he

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TRIBUTE November 29th issue of the Tribune which included these remarks: “His son Adam, who had once been a professional polo player and manager of polo clubs, was in the early 1990s selling insurance. He previously told me, ‘I don’t feel Dad let me down. Maybe he didn’t discuss financial details as fully as I might have liked ... but I love and respect my dad. He always treated me like a human being. He was very open with me. In a family with this sort of stature, it would be easy to lose intimacy. We never did. He’s a great man to me’.”

Left to right, son Michael, daughter Jorie, son Frank, and father Paul Butler.

Kogan also remembered restaurateur Arnie Morton remarking about Michael and tennis in 1996: “He’s a pretty good player…We just started playing together about two years ago. We pretty much break even, though I’m a lot older than he is…He’s a sweet guy. He’s just a plain, sweet, nice guy. There’s nothing about him that would give you any hint about how rich he was or the life he lived.” happened to see an off-Broadway version of a new play, “Hair”, produced by Joe Papp and liked its anti-war direction. Butler and Papp joined forces to bring it to Broadway, and after a series of changes in direction of the musical to make it more upbeat, Butler took over production and the show opened on Broadway in April 1968. It was called the “American Tribal-Love Rock Musical”. It ran on Broadway for more than four years and 1750 performances and was nominated for the Tony Award for best musical. He also established a dozen road companies that performed the show throughout North America and overseas while it also played on Broadway. By the 1970s, the show had played in more than 25 countries, in 14 languages, and had been seen by over 25 million people and was made into a film. It is estimated that over a billion people have seen some version of the musical. It is acknowledged that beyond the stage, “Hair” impacted film, music, as well as politics. 50

Kogan further wrote “Into the 1990s and beyond (Butler) spent much of his time as what he called a ‘rainmaker,’ setting up deals among his worldwide network of friends…He was constantly reading scripts and talking deals.” “And always there was ‘Hair.’ He had produced a flashy revival at The Vic theater in 1988 and told me at the time, ‘I am as happy and free as I’ve ever been. I have learned a lot about myself and other people in the last few years. What do I want? I want one of these days to spend some time in the Himalayas. I’ve never been there. I think I might like it.’ Original poster for "Hair" musical

How people who knew Michael Butler, regarded him.

Butler is survived by his son Adam Butler, Adam’s wife Michelle, and his grandson Liam. He is also survived by his sister Jorie Butler Kent, her daughter Reute Butler as well as his half-sister Wendy Dunaway, and her two daughters Missy West and Jorie Waterman. ■

Chicago Tribune columnist Rick Kogan knew Butler for years. He wrote an “Appreciation” of Butler in the

References: Obituary from the Oak Brook Polo Club, and Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune columnist.

Butler’s involvement throughout the years also included work on the Lenny Bruce--inspired “Lenny,” on Broadway and the “You Are What You Eat” film.

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SNAPSHOT

Educational SNAPSHOT Independent and private schools continue to thrive

The western suburbs are lucky to be the home of several exceptionally strong schools. Many have a rich history and are known throughout the communities they serve for academic excellence, a wide selection of extracurricular programs, and an inspiration for learning. Choosing a private or independent school is a complex decision for families and students, with many great options available. Visiting each school is paramount for an informed choice, but insight into each school's unique traits - from their point of view - helps illustrate their message. Thank you to our partners highlighted in this exclusive feature for Hinsdale Magazine Group to provide our readers with relevant information and enable them to discover each school's distinctive characteristics.

SNAPSHOT

Avery Coonley School

he Avery Coonley School (ACS) is a leader in gifted education serving children in preschool through grade eight. For over 100 years, advanced students have thrived at the school, immersed in a mutually talented community led by highly skilled teachers who understand their academic and social-emotional needs. Students at Avery Coonley represent 40+ zip-codes in the Chicagoland area and come from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. This is due to the School’s commitment to diversity and a robust financial aid budget for need-based tuition assistance. Students at ACS enjoy being challenged and learning at a minimum of one entire grade level above their current grade. In tandem with a multifaceted educational approach, the depth of conceptual learning in all areas differentiates ACS from traditional schools. As a collaborative learning environment with a student-led approach to learning, classrooms, lessons, and expectations are structured to meet the best interests of gifted children.

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Avery Coonley’s 11-acre campus in Downers Grove offers state-of-the-art technology and flexible spaces for individual and collaborative work. An expansive art studio, computer lab, and Makerspace, along with 9,000 square feet of outdoor play area, including a pond, inspire learning. The new Student Service Center, opened in early January, allows Avery Coonley’s 325 students to interact with staff specialists in a space designed specifically for them. Students enjoy activities and clubs, including fine arts, chess, strategic gaming, and debate. Avery Coonley has a very strong, engaged parent community as well, who are the key to the welcoming atmosphere. The Home & School Association organizes many activities throughout the year, and Parent Ambassadors volunteer to give campus tours. The School’s environment harnesses the energy of students’ curiosity and interests allowing them to be themselves while exploring and developing their talents. Upon graduation, ACS students are motivated citizens of the world, creative thinkers, and independent, lifelong learners ready to meet their full potential in high school and beyond. ■

SNAPSHOT

Montini Catholic High School

ounded in 1966, Montini Catholic is a family-centered, college preparatory comprehensive high school rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus as emulated by founder, St. John Baptist DeLaSalle. Their LaSallian tradition recognizes the sacredness of all persons and educates students of diverse abilities, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds while emphasizing the importance of service and responsibility to Church, family, and community Academically, their college preparatory experience prepares students for success in college and beyond. With an emphasis on small class size, courses are offered within three learning levels: Advanced Placement, Honors and College Prep. Four dual credit courses are also offered. A Signa Fidei program is offered for 20 students each year who enter Montini below grade level. Students are not placed in academic tracks and benefit from an individualized “Four Year Plan for Success” which helps them explore career interests and set goals. Over the last five years alone, graduating classes have averaged over $18,000,000 in college academic scholarship offers per year.

Bronco athletes take the same qualities for success in the classroom and apply them to the field! Bronco athletes develop crucial life qualities including leadership, dedication and confidence! Montini offers 13 men’s and 12 women’s athletic teams and have celebrated a total of 30 IHSA State Championships. Extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations play a significant role in the overall development and education of a Montini student. 95% of the student body are involved in at least one extracurricular activity. Montini boasts one of the top Math and Robotics Teams in the state of Illinois. They also have the unique ability to live their faith through numerous retreats and service opportunities including two Habitat for Humanity trips and an International Service Trip. The Montini Catholic family inspires its students to appreciate their differences and thrive as one community. ■

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SNAPSHOT

Notre Dame School

alking through the double doors into Notre Dame Catholic School’s welcoming central space, one immediately feels the

warm and supportive environment that has been a hallmark of the Clarendon Hills community for almost seventy years. The school first opened its doors in 1956 to 331 students, with a majority of the teaching

staff being Sisters of Christian Charity, who lived on site. Today, Notre Dame welcomes students and teachers not just from Clarendon Hills, but from all over the Chicago area. Families are drawn to Notre Dame’s lifelong family community as part of a larger parish setting. Small class sizes with individualized attention and weekly school mass foster service and leadership, embodying what Notre Dame stands for: a culture of prayer and kindness. Within a safe and nurturing learning environment, students are encouraged to utilize high-order thinking skills, establish a disciplined work ethic and develop spiritual, intellectual, and emotional characteristics. Notre Dame proudly offers a variety of extracurricular activities and academic enrichment opportunities for students, such as school musical productions, Scholastic Bowls, STEM Club, and Altar Servers. Full-day kindergarten options are available for families as well as before and after-school care. The Parent Teacher Guild is integral to the school, offering parents fellowship and volunteer opportunities inside and outside the classroom. The children’s formation is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, with a school of dedicated staff partnering with parents to set students on a path of success—A path following God, caring for others, and believing in oneself. Graduates carry this philosophy instilled in them at Notre Dame to find success at their first-choice high schools and throughout life. ■

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SNAPSHOT

St. Isaac Jogues School

t. Isaac Jogues Catholic School, a member of the Joliet Diocese, has been nurturing students' minds and souls since 1932. St. Isaac's is endorsed by the Illinois State Board of Education and prepares students academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally for their future in the 21st century. The curriculum incorporates core values of faith within the classroom, weekly mass as a school community, and working with families to balance a rigorous curriculum with a nurturing environment based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. The strength of St. Isaac's is the partnership between home and school. Parent involvement is encouraged with their children's education, and parents take the lead with St. Isaac's service program. "We Invite, We Include, We Inspire, We Ignite," connects students and their families to the St. Isaac community. The co-curricular activities support the challenging academic program. The Fine Arts program offers choir from kindergarten through eighth grade and an annual musical. Intramural and interscholastic competition is offered for boys and girls in basketball, cross country, track and field, as well as girls' volleyball, football, and cheerleading. St. Isaac's has a no-cut policy for all athletic teams. Enrichment, Student Council, Academic Bowl, DARE, Chess Club, Lego competitions, Science Fair, and Math Team are additional offerings. In 2018, the Exceptional Learner Center (ELC) was opened. The center's vision was to support the learning of students performing above and below grade level, allowing each child to reach their individual potential. A graduate will leave St. Isaac's with the essential verbal and written communication skills, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity to reach their full potential as citizens who can meet the challenges of a changing society. Graduates encourage acceptance, tolerance, and understanding of all cultures as global citizens and practicing Catholics within a culturally diverse world. ■

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SNAPSHOT

Timothy Christian School

imothy Christian Schools is committed to an excellence-driven program of academics that is fostered by the eternally relevant morals, virtues, and values found in the Bible. As a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, it offers enrollment for students from preschool to twelfth grade at its 24-acre campus in South Elmhurst. Timothy Christian emphasizes the powerful combination of the Christian home, the local church, and the Christian school. Every student is at the intersection of Biblical Truth and academic rigor. Each student has a God-given talent—the teachers at Timothy Christian aid students in identifying and nurturing those gifts. Teachers go beyond to ignite academic growth through differentiated instruction and workshop model classrooms.

Timothy Christian offers Advanced Placement™, Honors, and dual-enrollment opportunities for students that need to be challenged. Young students are placed in small groups to provide just-right instruction, which could include intervention, additional practice, enrichment, or extension. In high school, time is built right into the day for small group and one-on-one instruction. Founded in 1911, Timothy Christian represents more than 70 communities with an enrollment of 1,250 campus-wide. Over the last decade, Timothy Christian has invested nearly $60MM into capital improvements without debt and continues to be dedicated to offering the lowest tuition fees for a private school with similar programming in the western suburbs. Various clubs, athletics, and performing arts are offered to encourage every student to get involved. Timothy Christian offers over 40 extracurricular and co-curricular activities. Many compete at a state and national level; the Mock Trial team won State and competed in Nationals last year. Timothy Christian is committed to rigorous academics with a Christ-centered community. The ultimate goal is that graduates leave with the conviction to live out the purpose that God has for their lives and do it all for His glory. ■

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SPOTLIGHT

Serving a Great Cause

Brittany Jelinek, Kerstin Clark, Diane Shwitz, Sheryl Kern, Emily Coolidge at the 2021 event

Cupid Courts Misericordia brings together paddle players to rally for a cause

ne Friday every February, the paddle community of the western suburbs put aside their competitive nature and enjoy a day of fun paddle tennis play for a good cause. For the past 12 years, a group of women passionate about the game of paddle tennis and lead by Gretchen McCarty and Katy Lee, have hosted Cupid Courts Misericordia, a day of friendly paddle play to raise money for Misericordia Home. This event has grown in popularity and raises over $75,000 a year. Participants include almost 150 women from Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, LaGrange, Western Springs, Oak Brook and Burr Ridge. Paddle tennis pros from the area donate lessons, equipment and time to this event each year along with over 50

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1921, Misericordia currently supports over 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities from diverse racial, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. This most vulnerable population lives in an environment of respect and beauty where they are challenged to be their best, thanks to the loving care of Misericordia staff and volunteers.

Patti Cella, Katie Hartigan, Sarah Estep, Emily Collins, Colleen Murphy, Colleen Quinn at the 2021 event

business and families who sponsor and donate raffle items. Misericordia’s rich history of care is a credit to the kindness of thousands of generous supporters. Founded in

This year, organizers are anticipating over 150 women will support and participate in this all-lever paddle tennis mixer on Friday, February 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Lunch will be served following play and raffle prizes. A men’s evening event began in 2021 and will be expanded this year to three local area clubs. Visit cupidscourt2023.givesmart.com/ for more information. ■

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CHEF SHOWCASE

DISHING IT OUT Inside Chef Beau’s Klean Kitchen BY ABBEY HAYES

hef Beau’s Klean Kitchen offers a weekly meal service unlike any other. The emphasis isn’t solely on convenience, it’s also about how the food makes you feel. Chef Beau prepares meals with, allergy-friendly ingredients. Meals are also prepared without wheat (gluten) and American cow’s milk (lactose). Chef Beau’s mother inspired him to become a Chef; however, he truly found his calling after changing his diet and seeing the positive impact.

Chef Beau realized that what you eat doesn’t only impact a person’s health and outlook but also their energy. Before starting Chef Beau’s Klean Kitchen, Beau was cooking for multiple clients on the North Shore with autoimmune diseases. He knew he needed to find a commercial kitchen because he had a niche business that people needed. After some back and forth over the years, Chef Beau started out as a private chef in 2010 and later built Chef Beau’s Klean Kitchen in 2019. If you’re looking for a way to transform mealtime and your overall wellness, be sure to check out Chef Beau’s Klean Kitchen. ■

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TRAVEL

Healthy NEW YEAR! BY VALERIE HARDY PHOTOS BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

AT THE SEPTEMBER RETREAT, JILL KEB, CAROLYN NORDSTROM, NICKIE GUINN, ANGELA LABERTEW, VICTORIA PLONSKI, CARLY HERRING, SHEILA HERRING, AND KATHY TAYLOR GATHER TOGETHER OVERLOOKING LAKE MICHIGAN AFTER A WALKING MEDITATION.

hen the clock strikes midnight and a new year begins, many commit to shedding unhealthy habits and beginning anew with a(nother) firm fitness plan or decision to diet. Whether a gluten-free, dairy-free, lowcarb, keto-friendly, or high-protein meal plan, these diets du jour rarely see the next month let alone next year. Jill Keb, a former Hinsdale resident who is a certified food educator, explains that achieving lasting change requires cultivating a lifestyle that is healthy for both mind and body. To support others seeking such a lifestyle, she co-founded Plant Life Journey with her longtime colleague Kathy Taylor of Palatine. Although Keb relocated to Michigan, the two work more closely now than ever. Keb’s spacious South Haven home is just steps from the shores of

Lake Michigan, and it provides the perfect backdrop for the Plant Life Journey Retreats the pair run. These 6-day immersive whole food plant-based (WFPB) cooking and wellness retreats offer something for everyone. “We keep exploring what works for different people and meet them where they’re at,” Keb said.

to their lives,” he said. Many people join the retreat in hopes of improving the quality and longevity of their lives. At the September retreat, three guests shared how medical conditions first led them to the WFPB lifestyle. Participants from across the nation attend the retreats with health or weight loss goals or a simple desire to reset their

WFPB involves eating minimally processed foods, omitting animal-sourced products, and avoiding oils. The benefits of such a diet are manifold, said Dr. Ashwani Garg, the consulting physician for Plant Life Journey. “It never ceases to amaze me what is possible [via a plant-based diet],” he said. Dr. Garg recently treated two middle-aged patients who “were able to get off all their medications after about six months of effort...they are adding life to their years, and years

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VEGETABLES ARE FRONT AND CENTER IN THE RETREAT'S COOKING CLASS ON HOW TO MAKE SPRING ROLLS WITH AN ASIAN PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE

TRAVEL

bodies or reconnect with themselves. Whatever the impetus, guests are likely to find what they seek at the retreat.

If a guest wants to come and sleep all day because that’s what they need, that’s ok.”

A typical daily itinerary starts with morning yoga or a group walk to the South Haven Lighthouse. A communal breakfast follows. From there, guests engage in a hands-on cooking class in Keb’s “awesome kitchen, with great participation by all,” said Marybeth Sullivan of Park Ridge, a nurse who attended the retreat with her husband in June. Guests work from a large selection of “tried and true recipes,” Keb said, to prepare nutritious and delicious dishes for subsequent meals. Participants then relax on the deck overlooking the river or walk by the beach while lunch is prepared.

– JILL KEB

grated throughout the retreat, including a brief session before the evening meal. During dinner, participants discuss their learning and favorite WFPB recipes and resources. They then walk to the beach to savor (and maybe take a selfie with) the breathtaking sunset over Lake Michigan.

in the spring and fall, allowing access to South Haven’s stunning sites without the crowds or premium prices of peak travel times. Limited onsite lodging is available, or retreat guests may stay at an offsite rental or nearby bed and breakfast. Capacity for each session is 10 attendees, so the retreats are intimate. “The group becomes pretty tight, pretty quick,” Keb said.

Guests return to Keb’s kitchen once more to prep – and, of course, sample – a healthy dessert, like the “awesome chocolate pie we make,” Taylor said.

Jim Sullivan, part of the June retreat, said, “All of us retreaters became fast friends...and still keep in touch and trade recipes and laughs.”

Dr. Garg debunks the myth that dessert and healthy diet do not mesh: “Whether someone is plant-based or not, desserts always satisfy the palate…and are something one can enjoy AND get their healthy fats and fiber from, too.”

He attributed his group’s ease in bonding to the retreat leaders. He said any potential for “initial awkwardness was quickly banished by [their] kindness and humor.”

After lunch, guests have two to four hours of free time and limitless ways to use it. Some choose outdoor physical activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking, while others opt to shop, peruse art at a local gallery, explore the Michigan Maritime Museum, sunbathe, or read. Some take to the road and visit neighboring Saugatuck to take a Dune Ride or climb Mount Baldhead.

There is certainly no shortage of food or activities at the retreat, but, Keb explained, “Everything is optional. If a guest wants to come and sleep all day because that’s what they need, that’s ok.”

Health and nutrition education is inte-

Retreats typically run Sunday-Friday

One-off activities – vision boards, rock painting, walking meditation in the forest, and a “field trip” to Country Life Natural Foods – round out the retreat.

This blend of kindness and humor assuages guests’ apprehensions. For example, Taylor said, “Have no fear! [Participants] can still have the vacation experience. We don’t eat just salad.” Nor is perfection the goal for retreat guests, Keb said. The focus is on progress. Carly Herring of Indianapolis and her mom, Sheila, attended the retreat in September as returning clients. Herring said, “I’m surprised I’m still eating like this [WFPB], but it’s easier than I thought. If I eat chips and salsa on the weekend though, I try not to be too hard on myself.” While the Herrings attended the 6-day retreat twice, there is also a 4-day “Reset” Retreat option for past guests “looking for a booster,” said Taylor, or for individuals already following a WFPB lifestyle.

RETREAT LEADERS JILL KEB AND KATHY TAYLOR BAKE HEALTHY “COOKIES” FOR THE GUESTS.

Pricing varies by length of retreat, dates, and accommodations. For more information about Plant Life Journey’s retreat offerings as well as free access to a selection of healthy recipes, visit plantlifejourney.com. ■

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