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FEATURE Be Our Guest 7 trends driving the latest in wedding stationery ETC. To-Do List Encore Jay Leno
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CONTENTS
Bryan Foy, MD Cardiothoracic Surgeon
No matter where we are, we never really leave our patient’s side. Dr. Bryan Foy may be getting ready for work, but mentally, he’s already with his patient, helping dispel their fear and worry, and preparing them for surgery later today. It’s that never-off-the-clock attitude that’s led Edward-Elmhurst Health to become a nationally recognized leader in heart care. Take your free HeartAware Assessment at ThisIsPersonalEEH.org
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Michelle Dellinger | Editor mdellinger@napervillemagazine.com Megan Holbrook | Advertising Director mholbrook@chicagomag.com Patty Brand | Account Manager pbrand@napervillemagazine.com Haleigh Brown | Art Director Kathy Aabram | Editorial Coordinator PRODUCTION Tom Kadzielawski | Prepress/Design Manager Julie Szamlewski | Production Specialist MARKETING Brittany Van Swol | Graphic Designer AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Elizabeth Kerndl | Specialist, Audience Development FINANCE Michele De Venuto | Senior Director, Finance Amber Zukowski | Senior Financial Analyst CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Arnett, Julie Duffin, Mark Loehrke, Annemarie Mannion, Cara Sullivan, Christie Whillhite CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Olivia Kohler CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORS Kevin Sterjo, Ievgenii Volyk EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING OFFICES 495 North Commons Drive, Suite 102 Aurora, IL 60504 630.696.4124 napervillemagazine.com
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Naperville magazine (Vol. 16, No. 4, April 2020) is published monthly by Chicago magazine, 160 North Stetson Ave., 4th Floor, Chicago, Illinois 60601, a division of Tribune Publishing. Unless otherwise requested, submitted materials become the property of Naperville. Statements, opinions and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their own and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers. We cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. Naperville magazine assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited materials. Standard class postage paid at Aurora, IL 60504. Subscriptions: $11 for 12 issues. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved. Postmaster: Send address changes to Naperville magazine, 495 North Commons Drive, Suite 102, Aurora, IL 60504. Š 2020 Naperville magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited.
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s I write this, schools and businesses have closed. Events are being canceled. Economies are in free fall. The COVID-19 virus has—relatively overnight—turned our world upside down, causing all of us to question both today’s activities and future plans. As local businesses scramble to respond to the state’s mandate of social distancing, plus bar and restaurant closures, I’m seeing more and more calls on social media to support local businesses. This amazing show of support exemplifies the community spirit all around us. Delivery and carry out options, plus online grocery and retail orders, will help to reduce the impact of this devastating situation for the stores and restaurants we love. We made every effort to update events and classes listed on these pages as we went to press. As always, please confirm the accuracy of details with venues before heading out. The wedding issue in your hands was created to celebrate love. May it always rule the decisions we make, in both our homes and in our communities.
Michelle Dellinger
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THE ART OF NICK CAVE An excerpt from Meaghan Garvey’s feature story “Honey, It’s Everything,” from the April issue of our sister pub, Chicago magazine
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sn’t until after a full tour of his 23,000-square-foot art space, a thorough excavation of three giant boxes of sequined Chinese appliqués, and an introduction to his dog, a mutt named Bam Bam, that I learn it is Nick Cave’s birthday. “He’s not going to tell you, so I will,” says Bob Faust, a fellow artist and Cave’s personal and professional partner, as he pokes his head into our meeting. Cave gracefully brushes off the attention. He is 61 today, though if he told me he was 40-something, I’d believe it, silver beard aside. The guy is ripped, with a compact dancer’s build and presumably the most coveted skin care routine in contemporary art. Velcroed around his right biceps is an armband that reads “Grl Power!” in a superhero comics font, a little gift his older brother gave him earlier this morning. As for his plans for the day, he’ll mostly be in the studio, which is just as well. Parties are nice, but there’s work to be done. “The studio” is putting it modestly: Facility, the multidisciplinary space that Cave and Faust opened last year, occupies a former upholstery shop in a vintage brick building [in] Old Irving Park. The place is like a Wonka Factory for those who get off on “making stuff,” a phrase you’ll hear regularly if you spend enough time in Cave’s presence; yes, there is the lofty world of capital-A art in which Cave is revered, but he identifies just as much as a “maker” and a facilitator of kindred makers.
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INFLUENCERS, EVENTS AND ISSUES ON OUR WEST SUBURBAN RADAR
LOCAL (S)HEROES Naperville’s history museum celebrates the women who have shaped our community By Christie Willhite
W
hen we tell the story of Naperville’s history, we talk about Joseph Naper and the pioneering men who set up a homestead that became our city. But Almeda Naper was by her husband’s side from the very beginning, part of a network of women who have built and shaped our community—but whose stories we may not know. That will change with Naper Settlement’s HERstory campaign, a mission to highlight women’s contributions to Naperville’s history. The campaign commemorates the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. “Traditionally, the contributions of women—whether local, state, or
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national—have been overlooked and we are no different, but we are committed to changing that,” says Macarena Tamayo-Calabrese, Naper Settlement’s president and CEO. “We must change this going forward or we risk that the story of current and upcoming female change-makers will also be lost. The history of women must not be merely thought of as women’s history, but as our history, and it must live alongside the history of our male counterparts.” The campaign will tell the stories of 100 women and girls who have shaped the city throughout its history. Their achievements will be showcased online, in social media, and in artful banners downtown and around the settlement grounds. Their contributions also will be the basis for Women: Waves of
Traditionally, the contributions of women— whether local, state, or national—have been overlooked, and we are no different, but we are committed to changing that.” —Macarena Tamayo-Calabrese tion. She recently donated the Antonia C. Harlan Multicultural Collection to Naper Settlement. Simonovich, a nurse on the faculty of the DePaul University School of Nursing, describes herself in her nomination as a “social justice scientist,” citing her
PHOTO COURTESY NAPER SETTLEMENT
Naper Settlement is committed to telling stories of local women, like these in uniform, through its HERstory campaign.
Change, an exhibition debuting in June at the settlement (see sidebar). To be sure, the exhibit will celebrate Caroline Martin Mitchell, who donated her family’s estate for public use—a donation that gave the city Naper Settlement, Centennial Beach, Knoch Park, and more. And visitors will get to know the stories of conservationist May Watts, an environmental educator who pioneered the idea for the Illinois Prairie Path; of state Rep. Mary Lou Cowlishaw, who championed education; of local journalist Genevieve Towsley, who wove the city together by sharing residents’ stories; and of U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, a nurse who graduated from Neuqua Valley High School and was elected to Congress in 2018. But the HERstory campaign also aims to introduce Naperville to unsung (s)heroes like Antonia Harlan and Shannon Simonovich. Harlan curated a collection of artifacts representing various cultures that she shared in Naperville classrooms, with community organizations, and at cultural fairs, according to her nomina-
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work as an adviser to the Food Security Council of DuPage County. She aims to ensure healthy food is accessible to all. “We’re asking Naperville residents to share their stories, or to nominate someone [else] for recognition,” says Brittany Tepper, Naper Settlement’s marketing director. The settlement opened up nominations in December and received close to 30 nominations in the first few weeks, Tepper says. Nominees include Ruth Dow, who traveled the world to teach nutrition and deliver safe water; Jeannette Collazo, who founded Lurdez Consulting Group and works to employ young minority women in the IT field; and Anne Cottez, a French immigrant who founded Naperfrench to teach private French classes. “While the kind of stories varies, it is inspiring to see the common thread between them all—women who wanted to see a change, and because of this acted and continued to persevere through the challenges that they faced,” Tamayo-Calabrese says. “Whether starting their own business (often in a male-dominated field) or donating their time to help educate and inspire our community, these stories are powerful and show that Naperville women are one of the city’s greatest assets.” Anyone can nominate a Naperville resident to be included in the HERstory campaign. Women, girls, and anyone identifying as female are eligible for inclusion. Nominations—either a 250word essay or a one-minute video—will be accepted through November online at napersettlement.org/HERstory. All types of stories will be considered, and staff are looking for a variety of experiences to represent in the campaign—including stories of inspiration, leadership, and empowerment. “Our education department has really Caroline Martin Mitchell
16 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
latched onto the campaign,” Tepper says. “We are weaving the HERstory theme into many of the regular events on the calendar.” For example, the July Naper Nights concert will feature a tribute to Aretha Franklin, while local author Lindsay Currie, author of the middle-grade novel Scritch Scratch, will do readings during the All Hallows Eve Halloween celebration. While the HERstory campaign is a focus for 2020, continuing to
include women’s stories will be part of Naper Settlement’s mission, especially as it reaches beyond the community’s early days to include more modern history, Tamayo-Calabrese says. “History is how we … build community. But history also serves as the guidepost to help us plan the tomorrows,” she says. “We hope the HERstory campaign will bring the public closer to understanding that we, women, have always been there.”
HERSTORY EVENTS
Most of the following 2020 events and exhibits are included with museum admission to Naper Settlement (523 S. Webster, napersettlement.org): Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy Through May 25; included with museum admission The touring exhibition, produced by the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, explores the nation’s industrial maturation into a global superpower that led the Allies to victory in World War II. Locally produced galleries will showcase how Naperville’s Kroehler Manufacturing Co. shifted from producing furniture to supporting the war effort—including expanding the number of women in its workforce. Home Front 1940s Weekend May 16–17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; included with museum admission The 1940s Home Front Weekend honors the efforts at home that helped to win the war. Meet Rosie the Riveter and a Rockford Peach baseball player, see vehicles and propaganda posters from the era, learn about Victory Gardens and how to jitterbug, and listen to a tribute performance by Andrew and His Sisters. Veterans also are invited to share their stories from the war for the Naper Settlement archive. Women: Waves of Change June 16–December 31 Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment that granted women the right to vote, the Women: Waves of Change exhibition shares the story of women, past and present, who were and are foundational in the formation and development of Naperville and beyond. Naper Nights July 17, 6 to 10 p.m.; tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for ages 4 to 12, free for members and younger children Soul Spectacular performs a tribute to Aretha Franklin and the classic soul era as part of the monthly summer concert series. Cadillac Groove opens with blues, soul, rock, and R&B. HERstory Weekend August 29–30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the Women: Waves of Change exhibition, the weekend features a Women’s Expo, showing the impact women have had in the community. A live theater performance of Votes for Women, written by Zachary Jack, will share a story of the struggle for the vote, as local actors portray the lives of Chicago suffragists in 1913. Students can join in a “stump speech” competition. A cemetery walk will focus on the role Naperville women played in forming the community.
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SCHOOL DAZE April is the month that rising college freshmen make big decisions By Christie Willhite
Y
ou thought the college search process was over once your senior clicked “submit” on the Common App. And it was, for a few blissful weeks—until your teen logged in and started seeing a slew of those acceptance videos. Now how do you help your child decide which school is the right school? Take a breath and take your time, college counselors advise. Most colleges give students until May 1 to make their commitments, and students and their
18 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
families should use this month to really get to know the colleges that said, “Welcome to campus.” “Ideally, students should be able to say, ‘I’d be happy at any of these schools,’ ” says Rhiannon Schade, a college search counselor with New Jersey-based CollegeWise. “But we advise students to sit in that space and take the time in making this final decision.” Even if the dream school says yes, seniors should take a close look at how campus life, academic programs, and financial obligations at each school fit their expectations. Brian LaPorte, college and career counselor at Naperville North High School, advises families to visit the campuses they’re considering. And if they’ve already visited, they should go back, he says. Visit days for accepted students can help seniors envision their daily lives on campus and answer specific questions— from how the dorm cafeteria manages dietary restrictions to how students juggle classes, work, activities, the social scene, and being away from home. Take
advantage of opportunities to talk with students and ask questions, LaPorte says. Visit day programs often include Q&A sessions with students, but don’t be afraid to talk with students in the cafeteria or the union, LaPorte says. Then pay attention to how you react to what you see and hear at each school, he says. “Trust your gut. If you go and something feels off, it could be a sign that something on that campus is going to be impeding you.” Seniors interested in a particular academic field can use the decision time to do a deep dive on the programs they’re considering, Schade says. Find out what faculty members are involved in the program and learn about them— both their accomplishments and how closely they work with students, especially undergraduates. “Often seniors aren’t diving in that far in their initial research,” she says. For most families, finances will factor into college selection. “Students and parents need to have a very candid discussion about money,” LaPorte says. ILLUSTRATION BY KEVIN STERJO
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“It’s not necessarily a comfortable talk, but students do need to know what’s realistic for their family and what their options are.” College acceptances usually are accompanied by an aid package that spells out how much incoming students can expect to receive in merit awards, academic scholarships, and need-based aid. If the family submitted a FAFSA form, they’ll also know how much to expect in federal aid, Schade says. It’s a lot of moving parts to track, and Schade recommends that families keep a spreadsheet that will help compare the amount of financial aid each school offers against the total cost of attending. That total should include not only tuition, fees, room, board, books, and meal plan costs, but also travel and personal expenses. “You have to take into consideration the total cost of attending and get down to the bottom line of what will it actually cost,” she says. “School A may be giving you a larger aid package than School B, but if its total cost is greater, it still may be more expensive to go there.” Then students and their families need to figure out how they’ll pay the rest of the cost, whether that comes through loans to parents, a student loan, a campus job, or some combination. “What is the financially feasible option might not be the dream school,” LaPorte says. While U.S. News & World Report’s famed rankings might help get a handle on college options early in the process, counselors recommend ignoring them when making the final decision. “Unfortunately, those rankings hold a lot of influence over the decision process … but there’s so much more to the college experience than where it appears on a list,” Schade says. Teens may start their search sure they’re headed for the prestige of the Ivy League, only to find they love the energy of a Big 10 campus or the closeknit feel of a small liberal arts school. Ultimately, that sense of connection outweighs any ranking, counselors say. “You want to choose the school that’s comfortable in the sense that it encourages you to take risks and grow,” LaPorte says. “You want the place that makes you say, ‘I love being here. It makes me feel happy and invigorated.’ ”
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By Alison Hammer (Williams Morrow) Alexis and Tommy’s world immediately changes when Tommy receives a terminal cancer diagnosis, and Alexis realizes that everything she’s worked for doesn’t matter without him. Teenage daughter CeCe is also forced to confront her feelings about Tommy’s illness—and what will happen when the one person who’s always been there for her is gone.
By Souvankham Thammavongsa (Little, Brown and Company) This debut collection focuses on characters struggling to find their bearings in unfamiliar territory. A failed boxer discovers what it means to be a champion when he starts painting nails at his sister’s salon. Thammavongsa interrogates what it means to make a living, to work, and to create meaning.
By Alexander Rose (Random House) At the dawn of the 20th century, Germany’s Count von Zeppelin vied with the Wright brothers to build the world’s first successful flying machine. As the Wrights labored to invent the airplane, Zeppelin fathered the airship, sparking a bitter rivalry between the two types of aircraft and their innovators that would last for decades.
By Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller (Atria Books) This seven-step guide teaches how to buy less and give more. At once an actionable plan and an exploration of our addiction to stuff, this program will help you declutter without filling landfills, shop more thoughtfully, and let go of the need to buy new things.
P EO P L E LOVE M I NLOV E S. E M AG A Z I N E S. P AG EO A P LZ E
See the “To Do” Literary events for upcoming book signings in the area.
PEO PL E LOVE MAGA ZI NES. PEO PL E LOVE MAGA ZI NES. PEO PL E LOVE MAGA ZI NES. PEO PL E LOVE MAGA ZI NES.
22 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
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BETTER TOGETHER
WORTH THE WAIT A couple who met as students ties the knot a decade later By Lisa Arnett
D
an Scahill met Laura Kotz through mutual friends at Elgin Community College back in 2009, but it took a bit of detective work on his part for them to make a real connection. While hanging out at his apartment with friends, “she put her phone number on the refrigerator with number magnets and left off the last digit. I called basically all the possible numbers the next day,” says Scahill, 31, who grew up in Villa Park. “I had to have him work for it a little,” says Kotz, 30, who grew up in Bartlett. After dating for a few months, they parted ways to finish their degrees—she
24 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
at Northern Illinois University and he at University at Buffalo—and reconnected in 2014 when Scahill returned to Illinois. “In all honesty, I knew I wanted to marry her the first time I saw her,” he says. Scahill popped the question in 2018, two days before Kotz had planned to host a surprise soiree for him. “We got to announce [our engagement] to all of our family and friends at his 30th birthday party,” Kotz says. “Everyone who was anyone to us was there. The timing couldn’t have been better.” They visited a whopping 28 wedding venues before settling on Hotel Arista in Naperville, where wedding designer
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and catering manager Katie Jones won them over. “The way that she treated us and the way everyone at the hotel treated us, they really went above and beyond,” Kotz says. Their wedding ceremony included a unique ritual: “We wrote each other notes and put them in a box of wine that we will open on our five-year anniversary,” Kotz says. The cocktail hour kicked off with a performance by Mariachi Nuevo Mexicanismo to honor Kotz’s Mexican heritage. “My mom has five sisters, and my parents gifted them a mariachi band for each of their weddings,” Kotz says. The evening’s signature cocktail, the Captain and Cokely, honored their Jack Russell rat terrier Oakley (shown at left), who made an appearance during the reception dressed in a tiny tuxedo. Kotz danced with her father to Billy Joel’s “Just the Way You Are,” which was also her parents’ first dance song at their wedding. “I chose that song because my dad bought my mom a jewelry box with that song and I would play it when I was little all the time. It reminds me of how much he loves her,” Kotz says. Scahill’s mother passed away five years ago, but Kotz’s mother stepped in to dance with him to Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely.”
They now live in Park Ridge, where Kotz works as marketing manager for software company PCMI Corporation and Scahill is a production print sales executive at Xerox. After the wedding, they enjoyed a minimoon at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in downtown Chicago.
WEDDING DETAILS Venue and catering Hotel Arista, Naperville Wedding planner Sarah Kathleen Events, Montgomery Bride’s attire Essence of Australia gown from the Crystal Bride, Geneva Bride’s accessories Vera Wang shoes from davidsbridal.com; Marielle earrings and bracelet from amazon.com Bride’s hair and makeup BM Hair & Makeup Design Bridesmaids’ dresses Sorella Vita gowns from the Crystal Bride, Geneva Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire Men’s Wearhouse, various locations Cake White cake with cookies and cream filling by the Cakery, North Aurora Invitations LullaBelle Design, Elgin Florals The Local Petaler, St. Charles Entertainment Classical guitar and cello by Moeller Music Events; cocktail hour music by Mariachi Nuevo Mexicanismo; reception DJ by Music By Design Rings Jared, Lombard
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EXPERT ADVICE
WEDIQUETTE 101 As the wedding industry shifts gears in light of social distancing, event planner Kristina Taheri shares 10 ways to be a gracious guest in 2020 By Cara Sullivan 1. Wednesday is the new Saturday. As a guest, be game to attend weddings on Friday, Sunday, and even a weekday, as spring celebrations postpone to the summer and fall. Be sensitive to why the celebration is on the weekend shoulder date. If you can not attend, simply send sincerest regrets right away, without long explanation. 2. Send a gift before the wedding. Otherwise, a parent or planner will be responsible for transporting your present—whether it’s a check or an item from the registry— to a secure location during the reception and then home at the end of the evening. 3. Respect the dress code. Carefully consider the formality of the wedding when determining what to wear, and remember that only the bride wears white (that rule extends to bridal functions such as showers, rehearsals, parties, brunches, and bachelorette bashes). 4. Arrive on time. Plan your route and parking options ahead of time to avoid walking down the aisle with the bride. Keep in mind that seating typically opens up as early as 30 minutes prior to the ceremony. 5. Put down your phone. Unless you have been appointed official photographer, don’t take pictures during the ceremony—and resist the urge to post wedding or reception photos on social media unless you have permission. 6. Address dietary restrictions ahead of time. Call or email the host to let them know about food allergies well in advance of the wedding. Most venues can accommodate you if they have notice. 7. Drink responsibly. Open bars are fun and festive, but it’s important to know your limit. The goal is threefold: Have fun, don’t make a fool of yourself, and get home safely at the end of the evening. 8. Dance! Your role as a guest is to make the party, well … a party. If safe, get out there on the dance floor, mingle with the people you know, and introduce yourself to anyone you don’t. 9. Don’t ghost the host. Before you leave, make a point to express your gratitude for being included. Say goodbye to both sets of parents, and make sure to give your best wishes to the newlyweds. 10. Take your favor home. The couple put money and effort in choosing something meaningful as a token of their appreciation for their guests. So travel with that cute luggage tag, plant those garden flower seeds, and eat those chocolates the next day! 26 APRIL NOVEMBER 2020 2019 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTOGRAPH BY OLIVIA KOHLER
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MOVE
PARENT PLAY Let your inner child out with this playground workout from ForwardFit By Bill Waltzek
T
he fun of childhood doesn’t have to stop when you become a parent. This spring take it back to the ultimate kid escape—the playground. But now, instead of sliding down the kiddie slide, you’ll be getting a workout while your kids play. Warm weather only lasts a few months in Illinois, and when it does, I like to take full advantage of it by taking my clients’ (and my own) workouts outdoors. The sun fuels us, and we all get a new physical adventure in the processes. GOAL The workout can be done in 20, 30, or 40 minutes, which is perfect if you are strapped for time. See if you can outlast your kids by completing the most rounds in the time you have. EQUIPMENT This full-body workout requires no equipment—just find a nearby playground and get to work.
100 METER SPRINT
HANGING LEG RAISES
Grasp and hang from high bar with slightly wider than shoulder width overhand grip. Raise legs by flexing hips and knees until hips are completely flexed or knees are well above hips. Return until hips and knees are extended downward. To modify: Bend legs. Do 15 reps.
With torso straight and vertical, and arms bent 90 degrees, run as fast as possible with arms pumping “hip to lip.” To mark off 100 meters at the park, think 10 school buses in length. Do a sprint after each of the five following exercises. INCLINE PUSHUPS
Place hands at edge of platform, slightly wider than (and in line with) shoulders, supporting weight only on toes and hands (body should form a straight line from shoulders to ankles). Brace core by contracting abs and lower chest to platform; pause, then quickly push yourself back to starting position. Do 10 reps.
PULL-UPS
Jump up or stand on a bench and grab monkey bar with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder width. Perform a pull-up by bringing chest to bar; pause, then lower yourself slowly to the start position. To modify: Find a vertical pole and plant feet next to it, with arms extended as hands grab pole at shoulder height. Pull yourself toward the pole, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top; hold for 2 seconds then lower. Do 5 reps. 28 MONTH 2019/ /NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM APRIL 2020
BOX JUMP
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart at a comfortable distance from the box (playground landing or bench). Drop quickly into a quarter squat, then extend your hips, swing your arms, and push your feet through the floor to propel yourself up on the box. Step down and repeat. To modify: Step up on the platform with right leg, then bring left leg up to waist height, then back down to ground. Return to standing position and repeat on other side. Do 10 reps.
BULGARIAN SPLIT SQUATS
Stand with feet far apart; one foot forward and other foot behind. The rear foot should be elevated and resting on the platform your performed your box jumps. Squat down by flexing knee and hip of front leg. Allow heel of rear foot to rise up while knee of rear leg bends slightly until it almost makes contact with floor. Return to original standing position by extending hip and knee of forward leg. Repeat. Continue with opposite leg. Do 5 reps on each side. ILLUSTRATIONS BY IEVGENII VOLYK
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MINDFUL
CO-PARENTING The smell of fresh rain, tulips and trees budding back to life, the sounds of birds and wildlife waking up from a long winter nap – these are the moments we yearn for as spring holidays approach. But for many families, there is an underlying feeling that their Easter, Passover, or Mother’s Day holidays will not be filled with excitement and celebration, but instead with anxiety and stress as they struggle to co-parent. For many families, the idea of co-parenting and sharing time with your ex is not something to celebrate. Some families are sharing these holidays for the very first time. While others are realizing it’s the last shared holiday
with their child who is about to turn 18 and can soon decide for him or herself where they want to spend it next year. The attorneys at Grunyk Family Law in Naperville understand the difficult nature of co-parenting during the holidays and offer some strategies to these families that are applicable during the rest of the year as well. DEVELOP A THOROUGH PARENTING AGREEMENT Parenting agreements are legal documents that outline your rights and obligations as a parent and they address parenting time for every holiday and school break until the child turns 18. If they are drawn up incorrectly or insufficiently, it can cause a lot of frustration and a significant loss of time and money down the road if they need to be re-written. These agreements are designed to protect your children, you and the other parent. They should be completed by an experienced family law attorney who is capable of offering the “what if” scenarios. It may be difficult to envision these potential situations that would require referring back to the agreement, but preparation is crucial. Grunyk Family Law Partner Leah Setzen goes on to say, “The goal is to take the agreement and put it in a drawer and never look at it again - but it’s there if you need it. It covers everything.” COMMUNICATION Communication is key to all successful relationships. The same is true for co-parenting. From deciding whether to get your middle school child a cell phone for Christmas, to allowing them to spend spring break in Mexico on vacation, open communication can mitigate a lot of confusion and frustration for parents and children alike. Compare calendars and plan ahead. If you feel like you need help communicating effectively, mediation may be an option for you. Mediation is a great problemsolving tool for co-parents. Furthermore, sometimes adjustments need to be made to a parenting agreement
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
and mediation can be utilized for this purpose. Prior to 2016 the State of Illinois used terms like, “custody and visitation” to describe the rights of custodial and noncustodial parents. However, now the term “allocation of parenting time and responsibility” is used in an effort to suggest more flexibility and compassion when addressing co-parents. It is also easier to make minor changes to the parenting agreement when circumstances change in a family. TRADITIONS: HONORING YOUR EX’S CUSTOMS AND MAKING NEW MEMORIES Many families have holiday traditions. Maybe it’s Mother’s Day at Grandma Nancy’s house, or maybe one parent celebrates a different religious holiday like Easter with Mom, and Passover with Dad. Perhaps in a family with parents of the same sex, there is an issue over who gets to celebrate Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. When developing a parenting agreement, consider what’s important to you and the other parent involved. Which traditions can be upheld? Where is there some flexibility? Adversely, if every year you are alternating where your children wake up on Christmas morning, don’t forget that YOU have the power to make ANY day Christmas. A positive attitude is vital when it comes to co-parenting. Your children will love spending time with you on Easter Sunday or the weekend before. It’s you they care about and the focus should be on the memories and the time spent together, not the specific date. The reality is, you’re going to have to share time with your ex, so focus on the time you have with your child and get excited about making new memories.
“Don’t try to control what you can’t. This is your chance to make new traditions.” -Associate Attorney Jessica Larsen
PLAY NICE AND SET A GOOD EXAMPLE Children know when their parents aren’t getting along. If you find co-parenting during the holidays to be difficult because of the other adult, imagine your child’s perspective. If you want to preserve the celebratory spirit of the holidays, you need to keep your kids out of your disagreements. “Your children are learning from you, and you want them to learn about what a healthy relationship looks like,” says Partner Hilary Sefton. You may not like your ex’s new spouse or maybe you disagree over how much money to spend on holiday or birthday gifts, but putting your child’s needs first is critical to co-parenting. Let that be the one thing you can agree on. Maybe you
“
Your kids are always watching you. Be mindful of the things you say in front of them.” - Partner Vicki Kelly
both attend the winter school concert or take a family picture. Simply greeting each other at a sporting event can help smooth a lot of tension and make communication and flexibility easier in the future. These are the things you want your child to remember. Ultimately, you want to enjoy the holidays, and getting along is key to that even if just for the sake of your kids. Just because you are no longer with the other parent, doesn’t mean you can’t have a respectful and considerate rapport. Co-parenting can be difficult to navigate and doing so during the holidays can be especially challenging. In a perfect world, both parents would be able to set their differences aside and come together to make memories as a family. However, when that isn’t possible, the strategies listed above can help to alleviate some of the frustration that comes with sharing these special days with your ex and ensuring that your children experience the quality time with both parents that they deserve. The attorneys at Grunyk Family Law are passionate advocates for all families and they have experience representing individuals of different cultures, religions and sexual orientations. Every family is truly unique and the Grunyk Family Law team tailors their approach to meet the individual needs of every client. They are committed to helping couples and families achieve their goals while maintaining dignity and self-respect.
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HUMANITARIAN Page 34
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KUDOS
PHOTOS BY KIMBERLY DENITCE
Page 38
Waterleaf cofounder and board president Kelly Rozanski with husband Matt NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM/ /MONTH APRIL 2020 2019 33
HUMANITARIAN
GARDEN TO TABLE Cultivating a new generation of healthy eating By Julie Duffin
S
ome of my earliest memories are of my grandmother’s garden in Aurora. She was the one person I knew who grew vegetables in her backyard. Unfortunately, now that I understand the importance of clean eating, my grandmother is no longer around to share her wisdom. Luckily “Aunt V” is. A lifelong Naperville resident, Veronica Porter’s mission is to make sure the art of growing and preparing healthy food is not lost to future generations. Porter grew up helping on her grandparents’ farm back when Naperville was a small town. What is now considered organic farming was simply the way it
34 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
always was done in her family. Her biochemist father and nutritionist mother taught her the importance of healthy eating. In fact, Porter didn’t experience a diet full of preservatives until she went to college. After becoming ill, she got approval to grow her own food instead of taking part in the school’s meal plan. Nutrition, however, was not Porter’s initial career path. After earning a degree in design and engineering, then a master’s in international business and Chinese, she worked on everything from translating the Encyclopaedia Britanica into Chinese, to helping nonprofits promote their businesses.
She remained passionate about healthy eating and served as a board member for Building a Healthier Chicago. One day while volunteering at an urban garden, she offered a child some lettuce to take home for dinner. She was shocked when he refused the freshly grown food because his family got their lettuce from a bag. That light bulb moment inspired her to go back to school and get her culinary license and master’s in nutrition. Today she runs Ask Aunt V and offers classes in organic gardening and cooking for people of all ages. Porter’s classes are held at the Liam Brex kitchen showroom in downtown Naperville (222 S. Main St.). She focuses on teaching proper techniques for creating healthy meals at home. April offerings include Only in Springtime; Keto-riffic; It’s Greek to Me; and Spring Soup, Salad, and Ravioli. Students are encouraged to bring a chef ’s knife, an apron, and small containers to take home leftovers.
PHOTO COURTESY EDWARD-ELMHURST HEALTH
Ask Aunt V offers cooking classes plus gardening programs for veterans.
“I want people to be able to go home and get their families involved in making dinner,” she explains. “Fresh food is half the battle. Once people know what to do, it’s easy to incorporate it into their lifestyles.” In addition to classes, she also hosts team-building events as well as private parties. As if teaching cooking and gardening wasn’t enough, Porter uses what she earns from the classes to fund her work with veterans. Growing up in a military family, Porter is passionate about helping veterans who suffer from brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. “It’s been scientifically proven that gardening is very therapeutic for
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Fresh food is half the battle. Once people know what to do, it’s easy to incorporate it into their lifestyle. —Veronica Porter people who have high capabilities with hidden disabilities or special needs,” she states. Through Veterans Victory Farm, she gives military veterans the opportunity to work in a peaceful environment at their own pace and get paid for doing something meaningful. “We have a couple acres in DuPage and Kendall Counties, but the majority of our farms are on the South and West Sides of Chicago,” she explains. She also partners with a number of houses of worship. “They lend us their land and we take what we grow there and deliver it to soup kitchens and food pantries. That way the homeless get the first and best, instead of what’s left over.” Locally she has gardens at Little Friends and with Connections 203. Porter’s classes change seasonally and sell out quickly. Schedules and online registration can be found at askauntv.com. When retailers reopen, purchase some of Porter’s preserves, topiaries, succulents, and organic heirloom seedlings at Liam Brex in downtown Naperville. This summer she plans to create a vertical garden in the alley behind the showroom and hopes to host high teas and other events.
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NAPERSCENE
1
EVENING OF HOPE A diamond birthday celebration
2
By Julie Duffin
3
Michelle Buhr and Sheryl Finn
W
36 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
4 5
1 Jane Fonner, Lisa Schlueter, and AnneMarie Fonner. 2 John and Ann Dreyer with Michelle and Tim Gerken. 3 Tom and Mary Kay Livorsi. 4 Libby and Pete Makris. 5 Mary Bisaga, board member Jessica Brock, and Meghan Arnold.
PHOTOS BY KIMBERLY DENITCE
aterleaf Women’s Center hosted its 10th annual Evening of Hope on Saturday, February 1, at the Abbington in Glen Ellyn. Over 800 people attended the event, raising more than $260,000 for the Aurora nonprofit. Guests enjoyed a celebratory evening that included dinner and dancing to the Heat Wave Orchestra. Entertainer Joe Castillo mesmerized attendees with his SandStory performance and Pat McCaskey, Chicago Bears’ vice president, served as the guest speaker. “It was a very humbling and emotional evening honoring the families and children who have benefited from Waterleaf throughout the last 10 years,” said Anne-Marie Cronin, Waterleaf ’s executive director. “A record number of people attended our diamond celebration, and it exceeded all our fundraising expectations. Their generosity enables us to educate women and men about the choices they have.” Waterleaf is a nonprofit organization serving those impacted by an unplanned pregnancy. The center’s free and confidential services include pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing, and treatment. More information is available at waterleafwc.org.
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KUDOS
George Hood accepts a Guinness World Record.
INNER STRENGTH
Coalition to host his event at 515 Fitness in Plainfield on February 15. Hood is passionate about both mental health awareness and exercise, especially when it comes to lowering suicide rates. “I’m tired of seeing too many first responders, too many leave behind family and kids, when it really wasn’t necessary,” he says. Hood himself uses planking to work things out in his mind. “I have many conversations with myself. I work through relationship issues. I have arguments with myself doing the plank. When you’re preoccupied, it helps with the training.” When asked what the plank position represents for him, Hood talks about dependability—a concept introduced to him by his cognitive transformation coach, who once wrote him a letter that was signed, “Your friend, the plank.” The pose then took on new meaning for him. “The plank never leaves me— it’s always there to support me,” he says. “It’s like a dog: It gives you unconditional love.” Hood’s coach would debrief him after every long plank that he did. “I could vent to her,” says Hood. “She helped me process that stuff, instead of keeping it bottled up inside of me. I used to go to events pissed off. That wastes energy, so we tried to avoid that.”
Local trainer smashes a world record and the stigma of mental illness
A
lthough the number 13 is generally considered unlucky, Downers Grove resident George Hood likely didn’t give it a moment’s thought before achieving his 13th world record. Because for Hood, “luck” had nothing to do with his accomplishments—instead it had everything to do with mental and physical stamina. Hood, 62, a former marine and special agent turned fitness trainer, is the new Guinness World Record holder for holding an abdominal plank position for a whopping 8 hours, 15 minutes, and 15 seconds. In training for the attempt, Hood reportedly did 674,000 sit-ups and 270,000 pushups—but Hood says the mental work of pushing through the fatigue is just as important. 38 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
“Because I go so long,” says Hood, “there is a cognitive process that I go through to get the appropriate mindset.” All of Hood’s world record attempts have been done to raise money for specific nonprofits, such as the YMCA and the American Heart Association. When his previous planking record set in 2018 was beat, Hood began to look for a location to defend his title and he found the perfect partner—enter 515 Fitness. The Plainfield facility offers private mental health services while doing exercise activities. “As a trainer,” says Hood, “I often run into clients who need therapy as well. I was pretty inspired by that concept, and it works.” Hood partnered with the Braidwood Area Healthy Community
Now that he’s retired, Hood would like to focus on sharing these insights to help others explore their inner resources, which Hood says are very deep and endless. He will soon appear on The Dr. Oz Show and meet with the women’s lacrosse team at Northwestern University. “I want to tap those resources in me and inspire others to tap theirs.”
PHOTOS BY JOSEF HOLIC
By Michelle Dellinger
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CAMP GUIDE 2020
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STEAM-Based Weekly Themes Field Trips & Exciting Adventures Space is Limited – Call Today! Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com Primrose School of Plainfield 23755 W. 135 Street, Plainfield, IL 60544 815.510.6000 PrimrosePlainfield.com Primrose School at Naperville Crossing 2915 Reflection Dr, Naperville, IL 60564 630.778.8825 PrimroseNaperville.com Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2019 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. Ages for Summer Adventure Club program vary by location.
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Choose from 20 unique camps that offer fun, hands-on activities for kids in grades 1-8. From Super Hero Science to Engineering Art, each camp will capture your child’s imagination and create the perfect summer adventure! All camp programming runs from 9 AM to 3 PM Drop off begins at 8 AM
June 1–July 30 Registration Begins February 17 To register, call 630-420-6010
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SHOP Who started the clothing business in your family? My father, Alfonso, who was a custom tailor. I joined him in the business in 1983, and I brought in the retail and ready-made clothing part of it.
Rino Burdi models a blazer, shirt, jeans, alligator belt, and pocket square, all handmade in Italy.
Your father came from Italy? He was born in Bari. He came to the U.S. after he met my mother, Rosa. They are both from Bari. They saw opportunities in this country. She came here to Chicago with her family, and eventually he followed. How did you get involved in the business? I was coming out of high school and just starting in college, but I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I had this vision that I might go into architecture. I’ve always been artistic. My father was always encouraging me and my three brothers to get into the business. I tried it and found out that I really love it. Where did you grow up? Mostly in Westchester. My brothers are Peter, Anthony, and Michael. My new store will be just around the corner from restaurants in Hinsdale that Peter operates. Anthony is the contractor for the space, and Michael sells high-end cars.
The Burdi Clothing brand expands to the suburbs By Annemarie Mannion
F
ounded in 1968 in Chicago, the upscale men’s clothier Burdi Clothing (burdichicago.com) goes against the proverbial grain—but only in the best possible ways. In an all-too-disposable world, Burdi offers finely crafted, high-quality clothing that will look amazing for a lifetime, and could even be passed down to a son.
44 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
The family business began in Chicago’s Gold Coast, but has recently expanded to a second location in Hinsdale, where it will take the space formerly occupied by Hartley’s Cycle and Hobby Shoppe (24 W. Hinsdale Ave.). We talked with designer and owner Rino Burdi about the business and his plans for the new suburban store that is slated to open in May.
What makes Burdi Clothing unique? I’m building something of quality. If you buy a jacket from me and you take it to a tailor, they won’t be able to make a better one. Our customers are very discerning. They know what quality is and what a jacket should fit like. How do you stay current with the trend in men’s fashion toward more casual wear? We put a little different spin on our clothing to make it a little more youthful, a little more modern. We’ll do joggers or a sweatshirt, but we’ll do it
PHOTO COURTESY BURDI CLOTHING
HINSDALE HABERDASHERY
What personal touches do you bring to the business? I’m a designer. I just got off with phone with a customer who I was helping to design his car. When you have a good eye, you just roll with that. I’ve been around tailoring all of my life. I know how to put something together so that it’s harmonious.
in cashmere. I (myself) move with the trends. My jackets now are softer than the structured jackets I used to wear. How do you also appeal to people seeking more affordable clothing? I had a client tell me, “I want to send my son in to the store. Do you have anything more affordable?” That’s why we introduced Inclusivo a year and a half ago. It’s the same high quality, but it’s manufactured a little differently. We use different fabrics to keep the price down. I know it was a hit because we sold out of it. Tell us about your high-end lines. That line that I produce myself is called Exclusivio. I pick out the buttons, the collars, the fabric, stitching, and styles. I compare it to fine dining—I’m [like a restaurateur] going to the little farms to find the best of the best. Why did you choose to locate your new store in Hinsdale? I live in Burr Ridge and my children go to St. Isaac Jogues [a Catholic school in Hinsdale]. A lot of my friends live in Hinsdale and, more importantly, a lot of my clients are from Hinsdale. What’s the interior going to be like? I’d call it industrial chic. We are going to have 23-foot-high exposed-truss ceilings. The renovation has been a massive project. I was told the building is just three years shy of being 100 years old. The building needed so much attention, but I saw that it had good bones and really was something very special. What will be the vibe of the store? We’ll have 4,000 square feet on the first floor with onsite tailoring. It’s going to be built around a lifestyle. We wanted to create a space where people can gather. It’s going to have an espresso bar and couches. It will have a lounge-like feel. People can have an espresso or a cappuccino and visit with us. Why do you think Burdi Clothing is continuing to thrive? When my dad came to this country there was a tailor shop on every corner. I’m standing alone now—and that’s because of quality.
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HOME A floating soffit above the island helps make the 10-foot ceilings look less expansive, and a geometric LED lighting fixture provides a stunning focal point.
The Drurys like the look of an extra-thick countertop and chose high-polished white Geolux quartz for the exterior counters and Madre Perla quartzite for the island.
Glass tambour doors roll up to reveal storage for the Drurys’ small appliances, serveware, and a TV. “We have the cable news on a lot, so it was a plus that we had a TV you could hide,” Gail says.
OUTSIDE IN Empty nesters design their own modern dream home
A
s president of Drury Design, Gail Drury spends her days doing the incredibly personal work of collaborating with homeowners to create functional, beautiful spaces. One of her most recent projects, however, was more personal than ever: a new-build home in Winfield for her and husband Jim. “I wanted to do what I’ve done for my customers for the last 30 years,” Gail says. After finding a wooded lot, they hired builder David Olseng to bring their vision of a modern, nature-inspired home to life. “A lot of elements of the home were inspired by our ski trips out to Park City,” says Jim, vice president of Drury: white oak floors, walnut cabinetry, stacked stone, plus expansive windows that help bring the outside in. 46 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
“We didn’t want a separate dining room,” Gail says of the home’s main living space, “but we did need a table that seated 12 people.” They designed the custom table, which has a polished stainless steel base and a wood top stained to match the doors throughout the home. Two swivel chairs create a seating nook on one end of the dining table. “That’s where I sit and watch the birds,” Gail says. A wooden soffit bisects the space, making the high-ceilinged room feel cozier. “We brought the same stone [used on the exterior] on the inside of the house for some accent areas,” builder David Olseng says.
PHOTOS BY ERIC HAUSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
By Lisa Arnett
Send Joy with Fresh Spring Blooms
The kitchen is laid out so Jim can cook on one side of the island while Gail mixes drinks, preps table settings, or washes dishes on the other side. “We were always on top of each other in the kitchen of our old house,” she says.
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The Drurys’ office features two workspaces and a clean-lined look where everything has a place. “We didn’t want your traditional bookcases, so that’s why I did the thicker shelves, so they’re a little more like furniture,” Gail says. Custom cabinetry with interior roll-outs hide away different kinds of equipment, including shredders, printers, and computer towers.
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Saint George wine with laserengraved message from Vom Fass, $30 Wildlife drinkware set from Filson, $155
Workbench bandanna from Filson, $45
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Records from Purple Dog Records, $4–$20+ 48 APRIL SEPTEMBER 2020 /2019 NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
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NEW LIFE FOR A HISTORIC HOME The community of Downers Grove preserves a stop on the Underground Railroad By Michelle Dellinger
W
hen builder Chris Salman was first interested in a lot in downtown Downers Grove in 2007, he assumed the property would be torn down to make way for a new custom build. But when owners Robert and Marge Smith explained the historical significance of the home, he began to see it wouldn’t be just another teardown. Although the house didn’t look like it was built by pioneers in 1846—it had been previously added on to, covered in siding, and moved to a new location— the Smiths explained that abolitionists Israel and Avis Blodgett had used their residence as a shelter for those fleeing the country to escape slavery. The home was one of the treasures of Downers Grove as an active stopover on the Underground Railroad. In fact, DuPage 50 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
County was a critical passageway due to its proximity to Chicago, the destination for catching boats sailing to Canada, where slavery had been outlawed. “The builder knew that it was significant,” says Charley Smart, president of the Downers Grove Heritage Preservation Corporation, “but it was due for the wrecking ball unless someone figured out what to do with it.” Salman, who grew up in Downers Grove and now runs Stature Custom Homes, began working with a group of residents who were interested in saving the property. “We set up an agency to save it, rather than destroy it,” says Gordon Goodman, secretary/treasurer of the DGHPC. A significant accomplishment of the group was a partnership with the city’s park district, which enabled the
group to move the home to the Downers Grove Museum campus—just 50 feet away from the home’s original 1846 plot. “We had to do a tremendous amount of research to justify the park district’s involvement,” says Goodman. The group was able to collect over 40 different items—many were letters from Blodgett family members—to prove the home’s significance to the Underground Railroad. In fact, Cincinnati’s National Underground Railroad Freedom Center validated their claim and told the group it’s the second-most-documented site— next to Knox College. After a permanent site on park district property was secured, the group began raising funds to move and restore the home to its original state and site. “The move cost $30,000 to $40,000,” says Smart. “In addition, we restored the exterior and brought a lot of things back to its original configuration. In all, we’ve raised something like a quarter of a million dollars to do that.” The funds have been a mixture of corporate, government, and private donors. “It was a wider community coming together to make this happen,” he says. Residents can visit the 1846 Blodgett House on May 2 from 12 to 3 p.m. during the Downers Grove Museum’s Founders Day celebration called Country in the Park. Public tours of the 1846 Blodgett House will also be held the last Saturday of the month in June, July, and August ($5/resident, $8/nonresident; register at dgparks.org). For more information on the history of the home, visit 1846blodgetthouse.org. The Blodgett House being moved
PHOTOS COURTESY DGHPC AND DOWNERS GROVE PARK DISTRICT
An 1871 photo of Avis Blodgett and sons in front of the house
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BR
EXPRESS $9.90 per person
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Minimum Orders: 10 People | Delivery 7 Days a Week from 12 - 6pm | Minimum Lead Time: 48 hrs Only $10 Delivery Fee to All Western Suburbs | No Staff or Rental Equipment Available
Midwest BBQ
Choose 2 Entrees & 2 Sides for Full Guest Count
Entrees
1/4 Char Grilled Burger Red Hot Chicago Dog Honey Stung Crispy Fried Chicken Signature Pulled BBQ Pork 10" Grilled Vegetable Kabobs Grilled Bratwurst Simmered in Beer and Onions Additional Entrees $3.00 Appropriate condiments for all entrees provided as needed.
Sides
Juicy Watermelon Wedges Zesty Coleslaw Classic Potato Salad Rotini Pasta Salad Crispy Kettle Chips Brown Sugar Baked Beans Split Buttered Corn Cobs Fresh Fruit Salad Marinated Vegetable Salad Additional Sides $1.25
kids corner Crispy Chicken Tenders & Mini Hot Dogs Served with Buns, Ketchup & Mustard, Crispy Mac & Cheese Fritters, Fresh Fruit Salad, Carrot Sticks with Ranch $8.90 per person
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Buttermilk Chicken Fingers
Grilled Italian Sausage with French Bread
Ranch & Honey Dijon Creamy Mac & Cheese Harvest Garden Salad with Choice of Dressing $10.90 per person
Roasted Peppers and Stewed Tomatoes Sided with Rigatoni Pasta Tomato, Cucumber & Red Onion Salad $8.90 per person
Black Angus Burger Sliders
Chicago Italian Beef with French Bread
American Cheese, Ketchup, Mustard & Pickle Chips Creamy Mac & Cheese (OR) Italian Pasta Salad and Harvest Garden Salad with Choice of Dressing $10.90 per person
Three Cheese Baked Ravioli Pesto Cream (OR) Tomato Blush Cream Buttered Green Beans, Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Choice of Dressing Tomato Olive Oil Focaccia Bread $10.50 per person
6oz Marinated Chicken Brochettes
Creamy Mac & Cheese, Grilled & Chilled Veggie Display Home-Style Cornbread with Butter and Honey $9.90 per person
Served with Giardiniera, Sided with Baked Ziti Romaine Chopped Salad with Italian Dressing $10.50 per person
Oven Roasted Chicken Vesuvio
White Wine & Olive Oil Classic Caesar Salad, Herb Roasted Potatoes, Parmesan Garlic Bread $9.50 per person
tex mex Smokey Pulled BBQ Pork
Split Top Bun, Homemade Coleslaw, Watermelon Wedges, Black Bean & Roasted Corn, Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch Dressing $9.50 per person
Ground Beef Taco Bar
Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Sour Cream, Tomato, Lettuce, Onions, Jalapenos, Tomato Salsa, Fresh Guacamole, Tortilla Chips, Flour Tortillas, Fajita Grilled Veggies & Cilantro-Lime Rice $10.90 per person
All orders include disposable plates, silverware, and napkins. All menus can be delivered hot and ready to eat or packed for use in any quantity and delivered cold. For other menu options, visit us at ChefByRequest.com – We make it fresh!
NAPERVILLE MAGAZINE’S CULINARY GUIDE
DINE TABLE FOR TWO Page 54
RECIPE Page 56
LOCAL FLAVOR
PHOTO BY E. JASON WAMBSGANS/CHICAGO TRIBUNE
Page 58
Chef and principal Gabriel Hernandez at Avanzare in Lombard NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM/ /MONTH APRIL 2020 2019 53
TABLE FOR TWO
LOOK BACK, PUSH FORWARD Avanzare brings new life to a modest space By Mark Loehrke
C
omfort food tends to get an unfairly bad rap in some quarters these days, as if in failing to explicitly reinvent the culinary wheel (even if just for the sake of doing so) a new restaurant that opts instead to craft a menu of well-chosen and finely executed staples is somehow not worthy of the same regard as its more daring brethren. But when it comes to Avanzare (667 W. Roosevelt Rd., 630.317.7076, avanzarerestaurant.com)—where a trio of Chicago restaurant veterans are bringing both Italian classics and the best of 54 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
their combined dining résumés to new life—the only proper response to any hint of been-there-done-that dismissal would be something along the lines of senza senso (Italian for “nonsense”). Partners Ricardo Brizuela, Gabriel Hernandez, and Jose Estrada are in fact pursuing a philosophy of not just fully respecting and embracing tradition, but pushing forward (which is the English meaning of avanzare) as well. “Our goal is to do classic Italian cooking with a few twists and turns, and to make almost everything we use right here onsite,” Brizuela says.
RED (SAUCE) ALERT For proof that Avanzare has a firm grasp on the fundamentals of traditional Italian cuisine, look no further than the appetizer slate, where tender meatballs rest on a bed of soft polenta and are bathed in a tomato sauce that confirms that your coming meal is indeed in good hands. Traditionalists can get their fix for calamari with the fritto misto, which combines the fried squid with scallops, shrimp, and zucchini in a light marinara. Both of these are best enjoyed with a selection from the extensive wine list, where nearly 90 percent of the options hail from Italy. On a cold night, a steaming bowl of the hearty escarole soup is a great option for dipping the housemade focaccia and sourdough breads as well. The breads emerge from the same wood-burning oven that fires up the half-dozen pizzas on the menu, including the gamberi, which layers shrimp and grilled zucchini atop a pesto base alongside chunks of Gorgonzola.
PHOTOS BY E. JASON WAMBSGANS/CHICAGO TRIBUNE
Tagliolini frutti di mare
Pizza Avanzare
Photo by Fox + Ivory
UNDER THE SEA The delicious tomato sauce on those meatballs figures prominently into any number of pastas (all made in house) and entrées, of course, including the very tasty chicken parmesan, and what from an adjoining table appeared to be an amazing lasagna. But like any good Italian eatery, there is plenty to explore beyond the pasta and red sauce at Avanzare, including an array of veal and chops. There’s also a boatload of seafood selections. An easy mark for a good risotto, I was immediately drawn to one of the specials for the night featuring crab and scallops in a rich, creamy broth. As much as this kitchen knows its way around the pasta, this was clearly the highlight of the evening, with perfectly cooked rice and flavorful bites of seafood throughout presenting a strong argument for inclusion on the everyday menu. Perhaps not an everyday thing for most people, on the other hand, is dessert—but this is not the place to take a pass on a comforting option like cannoli (not surprisingly, also made in house) or, in fact, anything that comes accompanied by a healthy scoop of the gelato (in our case, the chocolate cake). In other words, when the waiter comes over with those dessert menus and asks if anybody has room, be sure to push forward. Editor's note: Avanzare will be open from 2 to 8 p.m., offering its dinner menu with 20 percent off orders through Grubhub, carry-out, or by calling 630.317.7076. The restaurant will be delivering in nearby neighborhoods.
CHOOSE A CANTIGNY WEDDING IN 2020! COMPLIMENTARY CEREMONY SITE Receive a free wedding ceremony at the reception location of your choice.
REDUCED FOOD & BEVERAGE MINIMUM Take 40% off sales minimum on Friday and Sunday receptions and 20% off Saturday receptions.
FREE BOOKING CREDIT Enjoy a $1000 booking credit at time of booking to be applied to our total package. Choose one of the three options. Exclusions Apply. Must order from Cantigny wedding guide. Bookings based on availability.
Contact a Cantigny planner today: 630.260.8145 or weddings@cantigny.org.
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RECIPE CRISPY CHICKEN THIGHS WITH SPRING VEGETABLES Yield: 4 servings bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 ¼ pounds) Kosher salt and ground pepper 3 ounces bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 small leeks, white portion only, thinly sliced and rinsed well 1 bunch spring onions or green onions, white and light green portions, thinly sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup dry white wine 1 1/2 cups shelled fava beans, lima beans, or English peas 3 ounces sugar snap peas, halved crosswise 2 ounces snow peas Squeeze of fresh lemon juice Flaky sea salt Fresh tarragon leaves for garnish Fresh dill sprigs for garnish 1
Preheat an oven to 400 degrees. Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt and pepper.
2
In a nonstick fry pan over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp, about 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate.
3
Add chicken, skin side down, to the pan and cook until skin is golden brown and crisp, about 5 minutes. Turn chicken over and cook until browned on the other side, about 5 minutes more. Transfer chicken to baking sheet and roast in oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a thigh, away from the bone, registers 170 degrees, about 10 minutes.
4
Meanwhile, wipe out fry pan and place over medium heat; warm the olive oil. Add leeks, spring onions, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until just wilted, 3 to 5 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high, add butter and wine and cook, stirring occasion-
56 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
ally, until butter has melted and wine has reduced to form a thick sauce, about 1 minute. Add fava beans, sugar snap peas, and snow peas and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat, season to taste with salt and pepper, and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
5
Return bacon to the pan and nestle cooked chicken into vegetables. Season with flaky sea salt, garnish with tarragon and dill, and serve immediately.
Recipe courtesy Williams Sonoma Test Kitchen
PHOTO COURTESY WILLIAMS SONOMA
6
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LOCAL FLAVOR
HARD SELTZERS, EASY DRINKING
I
f you’ve tried hard seltzers and weren’t impressed, maybe it’s because they weren’t crafted Chicago style. Out-of-towners, after all, don’t always get the City of Big Shoulders. We expect high quality with no nonsense and purity with no pretense. Thanks to two Chicago-area names in brewing—Buffalo Creek and Solemn Oath—we now have our own locally made hard seltzers. And they didn’t just jump into the trend with an ordinary product. They held back, looking at what was good and what was not good. Then they worked on a superior product. That means it’s time to revisit hard seltzers. Just in case you didn’t notice hard seltzers belly up to the bar and buy a round for the millennials (who promptly bought a second round), you should get up to speed. Hard seltzer is just 58 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
what it sounds like—sparkling water with alcohol and light flavorings (hello, White Claw). They’re low-carb, low-calorie, refreshing, and affordable. Last year sales grew 200 percent. As popular as they are, even a city renowned for craft brewing and multinational spirits companies didn’t produce its own hard seltzer. Until now. Up in Long Grove, Buffalo Creek Brewing taproom customers had been asking owner Mike Marr if he would make a hard seltzer. He obliged with, "Hell, yeah." But Marr didn’t want to follow the crowd or make something just because. Instead he decided to make an ultra-clean hard seltzer. By using a reverse osmosis system, Buffalo Creek starts with pure water, free of the minerals and chemicals typically found in tap water. For the alcohol,
they dissolve just enough dextrose to give Champagne yeast a special treat. That yields a drink with five percent alcohol by volume and 100 calories in a 12-ounce pour. After fermentation they infuse boysenberry extract into the mix. Black Hoof is a refreshing hit with the flavor profile of raspberries and blackberries in an ultra-clean, gluten-free hard seltzer. A fresh batch arrives in the taproom every Friday but usually runs out by Sunday afternoon. If you can’t spare time for a Long Grove outing, Solemn Oath Brewery in Naperville introduced Chicago’s first locally made canned hard seltzer. After making a name for itself as a local brewery, SOB branched out into hard seltzer with its City Water brand last fall. They spent the better part of a year perfecting its recipes for
PHOTO COURTESY SOLEMN OATH
Two local brewers enter the seltzer game
City Water from Solemn Oath
City Water, ultimately settling on four standout flavors: Lime Coconut, Mixed Berry, Grapefruit, and Valencia Orange Cranberry. At five percent ABV, City Water weighs in at an appealing 110 calories—in a category that’s hard to get right. Hard seltzer not only has to be crisp and refreshing, but it also has to have a perfect balance of flavor and alcohol. City Water may have hit the mark; reviewers are saying it’s among the very best. City Water should be easy to find, too. You’ll find it at Whole Foods, Binny’s and independent stores. It’s also at select restaurants and, of course, is sold packaged at the Solemn Oath brewery in Naperville (1661 Quincy Ave.). Before reaching for the White Claw, consider raising a glass filled with a locally made hard seltzer. Your inner Chicagoan will be glad you did.—KA
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NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 59
LOCAL FLAVOR pea ragu, browned butter scallops, and vanilla bean panna cotta with cherry compote. marcelsculinaryexperience.com NORTH AMERICAN PIZZA & CULINARY ACADEMY (LISLE) Best of Breakfast Brunch April 4 | 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., $65 Plan and prepare a scrumptious guest-worthy brunch. The menu includes homemade biscuits and gravy, yogurt with mixed fruit and homemade granola, bacon and cheddar scones, and individual vegetable quiches. Your chef instructor will teach the proper techniques to elevate your cooking. pizzaculinaryacademy.com
Now is the time to say goodbye to the heavy, savory, and cozy foods of winter—it’s time to revel in the fresh, light, and invigorating flavors of spring. Why not gain new skills and a new bill of fare by attending a cooking class? Confirm spring class offerings and register early, because your neighbors are updating their skills, too. By Kathy Aabram ASK AUNT V (NAPERVILLE) Spring Soup, Salad and Ravioli April 23 | 6 to 8 p.m., $75 Don your apron and grab a chef ’s knife in preparation for making creamy asparagus soup, spinach ravioli, and artichoke salad in this hands-on class. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available. askauntv.com COLLEGE OF DUPAGE (GLEN ELLYN) Fundamentals of Sauce Making April 19–May 3 | 1 to 4 p.m., $129 Sauces add flavor, color, and taste to many dishes. Learn the basics of sauce pairings from meats to desserts. Participants are guided through demonstration and also work hands-on through varieties of sauce basics. cod.edu 60 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
MARCEL’S CULINARY EXPERIENCE (GLEN ELLYN) Farm to Fork: Fresh and Seasonal April 17 | 6:30 to 9 p.m., $90 A chef and assistant will teach the nuances of a lovely spring dinner. On the menu: caramelized shallot and onion dip with young spring vegetables; early tender greens with charred asparagus, hard cooked eggs, and green goddess dressing; espresso-rubbed pork tenderloin with parsley-tarragon chimichurri, greens, and beans with fried bread; and roasted strawberry trifles with butter crunch. Spring Fresh April 30 | 6:30 to 9 p.m., $85 This experiential class will cover a spring menu of wild mushroom and pancetta stuffed artichokes, farfalle with spring
Meatless Meals: Vegetarian Made Delicious April 15 | 6 to 8:30 p.m., $75 Transform seasonal farm-fresh produce, hearty beans, earthy grains, plus crunchy nuts and seeds into delicious meals packed with protein. This demonstration class will provide you with the knowledge you need to add more vegetables in to your menu. nourished.com SUR LA TABLE (NAPERVILLE) The Easter Table April 9 | 6:30 to 9 p.m., $79 In this hands-on class learn techniques that will help you create a festive Easter table. Learn to make an herb pork tenderloin with fruit chutney that accentuates sweet and savory. Assemble a creamy potato leek gratin and finish with a light and airy olive oil cake infused with lemon. Spring Macarons April 7 & 26 | 9 a.m. to noon, $69 Master the macaron (shown above) in this in-depth class. Learn how to create the perfect batter, pipe the ideal shape, and create delicious fillings. Et voilà— two macaron flavors later you’ll be a pâtisserie pro. surlatable.com
PHOTO COURTESY SUR LA TABLE
SPRING MENU
NOURISHED KITCHEN (HINSDALE) Buddha Bowls: Power Up With Plant Protein April 9 | 6 to 8:30 p.m., $75 Power up with grains and beans, and rethink simple meals with our flavorful vegetarian bowls. Learn how simple it is to make these delicious bowls to fuel you throughout the day—it’s an easy way to incorporate more veggies, beans, grains, and nuts and seeds into your diet.
THE STAY IN SCHOOL PROGRAM OPENED MY EYES TO ANOTHER WORLD… MAKING ME AN EVEN MORE WELL-ROUNDED PERSON. SEPTEMBER M., UNITED WAY PROGRAM PARTICIPANT
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BE OUR GUEST 7 TRENDS DRIVING T H E L AT E S T I N W E D D I N G S TAT I O N E R Y
STORY BY LISA ARNETT P H OTO G R A P H Y BY O L I V I A KO H L E R S T Y L I N G B Y J O A N N A A LOY S I A PAT T E R S O N
This year’s invitation trends make use of the latest in printing technology and showcase time-tested materials in a fresh, new way. We looked to three local experts to share some of-themoment options available at their shops: Lynda Junge, owner of Greenstar Paperie in Downers Grove, (greenstarpaperie.com); Kara Gordon, owner of Magnificent Milestones in Downers Grove and Chicago (magnificentmilestones.com); and Lesley Vesevick, owner of Papier Girl in Glen Ellyn (papiergirl.com). 62 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
O R N AT E S H A P E For a showstopping invitation with all the intricacy of a lace gown, die cutting is the technique to try. “A die-cut pattern can be represented in a belly band or maybe a jacket that covers the entire invitation, or simply as a decorative element on the bottom of a single card,” Vesevick says. This design by William Arthur is a beautiful use of die-cut lace. “It’s very intricate, it’s very feminine, and it has a delicate, formal feel,” she says. “Die cut is not necessarily new, but it’s just so fun,” adds Gordon, who has designed die-cut cards in unique shapes for couples to communicate details that don’t fit on the invitation.
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This invitation features a gatefold made of vellum that’s printed with a design that looks like hand-painted swaths of mauve and green. “The brushstrokes are actually vector images, so they can be doctored up to be whatever coverage and color you want,” Gordon says. “You can overlap them in different ways, whether you just want a couple or if you wanted the entire thing covered.” “I had a bride’s mother in here the other day who said, ‘Oh my God, this takes me back to my scrapbooking days. I can’t believe this is cool again!’ ” Junge says. “People like old materials done in a new way.”
SHEER STYLE A semi-sheer paper that evokes the look of frosted glass, vellum can help add dimension to an invitation suite. “Everything is centering around texture, and vellum is a different way to incorporate another texture and a great way to add in a bunch of color,” Gordon says. 64 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
N U P T I A L N AV I G AT I O N In addition to the wedding venue and hotel, a map graphic might also include points of interest selected by the couple and/or their families, says Gordon. Gordon interviews her clients about their vision for the map illustration and then selects an illustrator accordingly. “If a [couple] likes a watercolor versus like a true illustrated map versus a vintage-looking map, that helps me decide the person I will source it from. I have several different artists I will go to, just depending on the overall look they want,” Gordon says.
Venue illustrations are especially appealing for destination weddings. “It creates a lot of excitement if you’re mailing 100 invitations and you’re asking [your guests] to travel from Chicago to Florida,” Gordon says. “To get it in the wintertime and see this beautiful watercolor with a beach and umbrella, it’s like, ‘I want to be there—I want to be in that map!’ ”
“Once you get this piece done, the client themselves owns it. They have the rights to it,” Gordon says. “I always suggest you include it on the website and to brand everything. You could even have it printed and framed and keep it in your house.”
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BRIDAL BLOSSOMS + PRETTY POCKETS Today’s floral motifs have a hand-drawn or hand-painted look. “They have a very organic feel for sure—not very buttoned-up and not very stiff,” Junge says. This invitation features soft pink blooms and greenery, plus handwritten fonts that serve as a delicate, romantic complement. Monochromatic florals can be eye-catching as well, especially when printed in this year’s in-demand color. “Dusty blue is definitely—I would say the last year and moving into this season—super hot. Everyone is asking for it,” Junge says. “It’s still soft without being blush … for the bride who doesn’t want ‘the pink wedding.’ ” At Greenstar Paperie, Junge and her staff create original designs for clients, so these floral motifs can be printed as is in any color, or they can be modified to suit a cou-
ple’s specific vision. “We create all of the artwork here and then everything goes out to be professionally printed,” Junge says. The concept of a lined envelope isn’t new, but today’s printing processes allow greater customization than in the past, Junge says. “I think it’s just a very unexpected detail that people like.” For this invitation suite, Junge designed what she calls a “bossy floral” for the RSVP card and envelope liner, which provide bold contrast against the simple ivory invitation with metallic foil lettering. At this couple’s February wedding, the tablescapes will look like they were pulled right off the page. “[They’ve] got an ivory tablecloth with navy and the bold burgundies happening for the actual [floral] centerpieces,” Junge says.
This invitation design holds the RSVP card and details card in what Junge calls a clutch. “It’s a pocket on the back that stuff is tucked into, so it’s not the loosey-goosey cards all over the place,” she says. When paired with a dark navy envelope and white ink for the addresses, it all wraps up into a truly dramatic package. “That is some mailbox hotness right there that does not feel like the AT&T bill,” Junge laughs.
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Like denim, this dusty blue is a neutral. “Some people who choose this dusty blue, maybe all their bridesmaids are wearing different shades of blues and roses and nude colors. You really can do anything with that kind of dusty palette,” Vesevick says.
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DOWN TO EARTH Nature-inspired invitations are a fitting choice for outdoor weddings. “Maybe it’s at the Morton Arboretum; maybe it’s a beautiful barn wedding,” Vesevick says. “This [suite] is super elegant. You’ve got your clean white paper, your lettering is very clear and clean, but you’ve got the nature elements and you’re bringing in some organic items with the ribbon and the wax seals.”
Designed by Arzberger Stationers, this invitation suite features a waterscape motif with a blue heron on the envelope liner as well as noninvitation items, such as a tag to attach to your guests’ welcome bags. “People like to have components of their whole theme brought into all of their stationery pieces,” Vesevick says. “It might not even be something that your guests remember specifically, but it’s a feeling of cohesiveness.”
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S U B T L E PAT T E R N Prints and papers with a marbled effect are a trend that gained speed last year and is expected to remain popular this season, Vesevick says. “It’s a kind of a modern look,” she says. “There’s a formal component to it, and also I think featuring the foil [lettering] with it is just very classy.”
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This invitation suite by Bella Figura features ivory and gray marbling on the envelope liner, RSVP postcards, and invitation itself. “It’s a really soft, subtle element,” Vesevick says. “It feels timeless, but it still has trend to it. I don’t feel like you’re going to look at that and say, it’s trendy just because of the marbling.” Though traditional marbling is made by swirling different colored paints on the surface of parchment, this is a modern facsimile created by the magic of digital printing. “It’s a pattern that’s digitally printed on paper. There is no texture to it—when you run your fingers over it, it’s smooth,” Vesevick says. “It’s printed digitally first, and then the foil plates are made to do the text.”
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THE FIRST SURVIVOR OF
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alz.org/illinois
OUT THERE.
Stomp
TO-DO LIST Through April 26 THEATER
LITTLE WOMEN
PHOTOS BY STEVE MCNICHOLAS; COURTESY PARAMOUNT THEATRE
OPENING POSTPONED
Four young women, playing in an attic, bring to life the beloved Louisa May Alcott tale of the March sisters with all of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that arise from helping to blaze new horizons for women in the 19th century. Come savor anew the tale of Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy in this world-premiere adaptation, written by First Folio artistic associate Heather Chrisler. $29–$44. Various times. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. firstfolio.org
Free. Monday through Friday, 1 to 3 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mayslake Peabody Mansion, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. downersgroveartistsguild.com April 2–5 SPECIAL EVENT
WEED LADIES SPRING & SUMMER FLORAL SALE The spring and summer sale features beautiful silk and dried floral arrangements, perfect for the upcoming seasons. Free admission. Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Daniels House at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. napersettlement.org
Through May 3
April 4
EXHIBIT
SPECIAL EVENT
DOWNERS GROVE ART LEAGUE EXHIBIT Enjoy works of art by the talented members of the Downers Grove Art League.
Frank Caliendo
FRANK CALIENDO TO BE RESCHEDULED
Comedian, actor, and impressionist Frank Caliendo has been making
Editor’s note: We understand that, at presstime, restaurants and large gatherings were closed as per the governor’s order. It’s with support for our theater and restaurant community that we share these events, which we are hopeful will get back to their regular schedule as soon as possible.
Addresses in event listings are located in Naperville unless otherwise noted. Please verify event details with sponsor organizations; events are subject to change after the press deadline. Email your event for consideration, 45 days in advance, to info@napervillemagazine.com, subject line: calendar. NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 73
Straight No Chaser
zoo, play games, make a craft, meet the Easter Bunny and live animals too! Children ages 2 to 10 can dash for some eggs before the evening is done. All guests in attendance must have a prepurchased ticket. $6-$15. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. cosleyzoo.org April 4 FAMILY
April 4–October 31 FITNESS
WEDNESDAY WALKING CLUB When it comes to outdoor activity, there is no better way than an active stroll around Naper Settlement’s 13-acre museum campus. After being greeted by a staff member, choose your route through the museum grounds, with an option to include the Riverwalk. After your walk, log your minutes (not miles), and enjoy a healthy treat and camaraderie with fellow walkers. There are incentive prizes at the end of the season. No registration is required. Wednesdays, from 8 to 9 a.m. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. napervillesettlement.org April 4 FAMILY
BUSY BUNNY Hop on over to Cosley Zoo for this fun-filled after-hours event. Tour the 74 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
SPRING TROUT SEASON OPENER Try your luck on Silver, Pickerel, or Grove Lakes at Blackwell, Pratt’s Wayne Woods, and Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserves. Anglers 16 and older must carry a valid Illinois fishing license with inland trout stamps. All ages. Free. No registration. Multiple locations. dupageforest.org
Sunday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 Randall Rd., St. Charles. kanecountyfleamarket.com April 4–5 EXHIBIT
NATURAL ARTISTS’ GUILD Enjoy more than 150 works of art celebrating nature and see demonstrations by the artists. All proceeds support Nature Artists’ Guild and Arboretum programs. Free with arboretum admission. $15/adult; $13/senior; $10/child (ages 2–17). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, Lisle. mortonarb.org April 5 MUSIC
STRAIGHT NO CHASER TO BE RESCHEDULED
April 4–5 SPECIAL EVENT
KANE COUNTY FLEA MARKET From refurbished furniture and vinyl records to sports collectibles and handmade trinkets, the Kane County Flea Market has it all. Up to 1,000 dealers display and sell antiques and collectibles indoors and out the first weekend of every month. A country breakfast is served on Sundays. Admission is $5; children 12 and younger are complimentary. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.;
The group that put a cappella on the map presents its ultimate bar song playlist. $55–$95. 1 and 6 p.m. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. paramountaurora.com April 5 LECTURE
CHICAGO’S FINEST HOUR: LOCAL MANUFACTURING DURING WWII For much of the 20th century, the Chicago area was a manufacturing mecca due to its central geographic
PHOTOS COURTESY PARAMOUNT THEATRE, SIMON AND SCHUSTER
people laugh his entire life. He is well known for his impressions of famous personalities including Donald Trump, Morgan Freeman, Al Pacino, Robin Williams, Robert De Niro, Barack Obama, and many others. Caliendo’s live shows are also clean and family friendly. $52–$62. 8 p.m. Paramount Theatre, 22 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. paramountaurora.com
location and ready access to rail and water transportation. Author Austin Weber traces the origins of manufacturing in Chicago and explores the city’s proud history of making steel and shaping metal. Reservations are recommended, but not required; call 630.420.6010. 4 to 5 p.m. Members/ Naperville residents are free; nonmembers: $10/adult, $9/youth (ages 4 to 12) or student. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. napersettlement.org April 6
April 7 LITERARY
JAMES RALLISON
Colton Underwood
TO BE RESCHEDULED
YouTube phenomenon James Rallison presents his new book, Odd 1s Out: The First Sequel!, the follow-up to the New York Times best-selling The Odd 1s Out. This is a presentation, Q&A, and book-signing event. Each ticket includes a presigned copy of the new book and admits one person and access to the signing line. $23. 7 p.m. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln. andersonsbookshop.com
LITERARY
COLTON UNDERWOOD From former football player and star of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette comes a fascinating and eye-opening behind-the-scenes look at his drama-filled season on the hit reality show. Colton Underwood shares his memoir, The First Time: Finding Myself and Looking for Love on Reality TV. Each fan in line must purchase a ticket (which includes a copy of the book) to join the line. $35. 7 p.m. Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W. Jefferson Ave. andersonsbookshop.com
April 7 LECTURE
THE LAZY ENVIRONMENTALIST Josh Dorfman is a sustainability entrepreneur, innovator, and leader who first conceived the term “The Lazy Environmentalist” in a blog post in 2005. Dorfman developed the brand into an award-winning reality TV show on the Sundance Channel, a daily radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio, and a book series. His mission is to help ordinary Americans to easily and conveniently embrace sustainable
living. Free. noon to 1:30 p.m. Judy Stevenson Hall, Wentz Science Center at North Central College, 131 S. Loomis St. northcentralcollege.edu April 9 LECTURE
AUTISM: HELPING DIFFERENT KINDS OF MINDS SOLVE PROBLEMS Animal science professor Temple Grandin is a pioneer in improving
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the welfare of farm animals and an advocate for autism awareness and understanding. Grandin has spoken to parents and teachers throughout the U.S. about her remarkable life and growing up with autism. She is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior. The lecture will also be livestreamed to a sensory-friendly venue. $10–$20/ person. 7 p.m. Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel at Elmhurst College, 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. elmhurst.edu April 10–12 THEATER
STOMP
TO BE RESCHEDULED
Back by popular demand, Stomp will take over Paramount Theatre for a three-night smackdown. Feel the power and energy as these talented artists use matchboxes, brooms, garbage cans, lighters and more to create pulse-pounding beats, all while blending dance and performance to form one electrifying rhythm. $40–$50. Various times. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. paramountaurora.com April 11 FAMILY
EASTER BUNNY PHOTOS Hop on by and snap a photo with the Easter Bunny, who will be strolling around the Main Street Promenade (in the atrium area between Hugo’s Frog Bar & Sur La Table). Bring your camera/phone and snap a pic of your child with the bunny, who will also be passing out allergy-friendly treats (with parent approval). Free. 1 to 4 p.m. 55 S. Main St. downtownnaperville.com
April 13–June 27 SPECIAL EVENT
FOREST THERAPY WALK Experience the healing and wellness-promoting effects of Shinrin-Yoku, the practice of bathing the senses in the atmosphere of the forest. Awaken your senses and reconnect with nature during these mindful walks with a certified Forest Therapy guide. No two walks are the same; visit different locations at the Morton Arboretum and enjoy a variety of awareness-raising exercises. The three-hour walk will provide gentle invitations to open the senses and cultivate presence, with more time to deepen the healing interactions between people and the natural world. Conclude with a tea ceremony, with tea made from edible plants foraged along the trail. Check the website for dates. $29/member; $34/nonmember. 9 a.m. to noon. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, Lisle. mortonarb.org April 15 CHARITABLE
NAPERVILLE CHEF SHOWDOWN Chef Austin Fausett from Che Figata and executive chef Eddie Sweeney from Catch 35 will compete in Loaves and Fishes’ Naperville Chef Showdown, a fun evening of culinary challenges and honored guest judges. Dishes will be voted upon by a panel of select judges, including Naperville mayor Steve Chirico. Ticket includes appetizers and
drinks from My Chef Catering. Proceeds benefit Loaves and Fishes. $100. 6 p.m. Loaves and Fishes, 1871 High Grove Ln. loaves-fishes.org April 17–May 24 FAMILY
SCAVENGER HUNT Shake off the winter blues and come out to play this spring with a scavenger hunt at select Elmhurst parks. Visit the museum gift shop to pick up a location/ answer sheet, then make your way to three of the five Elmhurst parks listed and look for the lawn sign to answer the questions. When finished, return your answer sheet to Elmhurst History Museum, see the exhibit, and collect a prize. Free. 1 to 5 p.m. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. elmhursthistory.org April 18 FITNESS
THE FOODIE 5K Previously a timed and certified 5K course through Cantigny, this event is now a virtual race. Participants are encouraged to continue fundraising to support Northern Illinois Food Bank. Take a selfie while walking your neighborhood, rocking your treadmill, or spinning on your bike, and post using the hashtag #Foodie5K. Registrants can pick up T-shirts and finisher medals at the West Suburban Center (273 Dearborn Ct., Geneva). $15–$45. solvehungertoday.org Forest Therapy Walk
April 12–18 WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD Children ages 8 and under can enjoy several free special sports, music, and nature events in Wheaton. Venues include the DuPage County Historical Museum, Lincoln Marsh, Tooey Park, and Safety City, and Wheaton Park District Community Center. Free. Registration is required. Various times. Wheaton. wheatonparkdistrict.com 76 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO COURTESY MORTON ARBORETUM
FAMILY
ACCESS
IS EVERYTHING
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THEATER
THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF COMEDY (ABRIDGED) They’ve skewered history, the Bible, and the world’s most celebrated playwright. Now, Reduced Shakespeare Company tackles the subject it was born to reduce. From the high-brow to the low, The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) covers comedy through the ages, from Aristophanes and Shakespeare and Moliere (Is Moliere funny? Why not?) to vaudeville and Charlie Chaplin to Stephen Colbert and Samantha Bee. The show contains some strong language and sexual innuendo. $18–$35. 8 p.m. Fermilab Ramsey Auditorium, Pine St., Batavia. events.fnal.gov April 18
Charles. This course is designed for athletes from beginners to the experienced. It’s spectator friendly, offering easy to get to viewing points throughout the course. $95. 7 a.m. Downtown St. Charles, Cedar St. and 3rd, St. Charles. slyfoxhalf.com April 18 FAMILY
PARTY FOR THE PLANET During this fun-filled family event, guests will learn some of the steps to take that will make a difference for animals across the globe, participate in green-themed craft activities, help zoo employees plant flowers and a tree, and visit with representatives at the Eco Expo. Free with admission. $21.95/adult, $15.95/child (ages 3–11). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St. Brookfield. czs.org
FITNESS
SLY FOX The sixth annual race includes options for a half marathon, a 10K, or a 5K. The route is a mix of flat to rolling terrain that will bring athletes through the beautiful shaded residential streets and the countryside of St.
Fun Run in Color
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April 18 FITNESS
FUN RUN IN COLOR Runners show up in their brightest white shirts, shorts, and shoes and then are showered along the route with vibrant color made from safe,
Party for the Planet
food-grade, biodegradable cornstarch. By the time they cross the finish line, they’ll be a brilliant color palette of warm and cool hues. With wave starts, four color stations, and a final color toss at the after-party, everyone’s guaranteed to go home wearing colors they’ve never worn before. This untimed event emphasizes fun over competition; it’s open to both avid and first-time runners as well as families and children of all ages. $35–$40. 8:30 a.m. Northside Park, 1300 N. West St., Wheaton. wheatonparkdistrict.com
PHOTO BY LANA KOZOL AND COURTESY CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
April 18
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April 19 MUSIC
SWING, SWING SWING Travel back to the age of zoot suits and the Lindy hop, as the singers take on the irresistible rhythms and sentimental ballads of the 1930s and ’40s. Hear great songs by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and more, in exciting new arrangements made just for Chicago a cappella. $20–$43. 3 p.m. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave. chicagoacapella.org April 19 FITNESS
THE CHAMPION OF TREES 10K Find your inner tree champion at this 10th annual 10K race, as you run on a springtime morning surrounded by trees from around the world. Runners will find a challenging course with rolling terrain as they follow the arboretum’s road on the east side. $47–$62. 8 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. mortonarb.org April 19 MUSIC
The Champion of Trees 10K
Naperville Woman’s Half Marathon & 5k
April 19 FITNESS
NAPERVILLE WOMEN’S HALF MARATHON & 5K The fifth annual Naperville Women’s Half Marathon and 5K from North Central College is open to all runners and walkers. The event course will take athletes through downtown and some of the finest neighborhoods of Naperville. $40–$100. 7 a.m. North Central College, BenedettiWehrli Stadium, 455 S. Brainard St. napervillewomenshalf.events April 23 SPECIAL EVENT
SUSTAINABLE GARDENS SERIES: DESIGNING WITH RECLAIMED MATERIALS Look at “junk” with new eyes while adding sustainability, personality, and focal points to your garden using repurposed materials. Instead of heading to the landfill, old bricks, salvaged wood, and other unwanted materials can find new life as design elements in your 80 APRIL 2020 / NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM
garden. Use them to create containers, borders, water features, and more. $29/ member; $34/nonmember. 9 a.m. to noon. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. mortonarb.org April 24 SPECIAL EVENTS
FROGWATCH Become a FrogWatch USA volunteer— all you need is an interest in frogs and toads, a willingness to participate in a training session, and a commitment to monitor a wetland site for three minutes multiple evenings throughout the breeding season (February to August). Attend the training sessions to learn more. $7/person, $20/household. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. cosleyzoo.org April 24 MUSIC
CHRIS GREENE QUARTET Enjoy an evening of music and art with WDCB and the sounds of the Chris Green Quartet. Saxophonist
PHOTOS COURTESY MORTON ARBORETUM; EDWARD-ELMHURST HEALTH; GUY BELL; OZZIE RAMSAY
SMOOTH ROCKIN’ JAZZ TRIO Cantigny Park welcomes a musical trio playing a mix of rockin’ jazz music. Beverages, including beer and wine, and light food fare will be available for purchase at Bertie’s Bistro. This event has limited indoor seating; dancing on the dance floor is encouraged! Free with $5 parking. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Le Jardin Restaurant, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. cantigny.org
and composer Chris Greene has collaborated with some of the nation’s most creative and versatile musicians. This intimate concert will take place in Water Street Studios’ award-winning gallery. Seating is limited to 70. A cash bar with beer by Solemn Oath Brewery and wine selections from the Wine Exchange will be available. $12. 6:30 p.m. Water Street Studios, 10 S. Water St. Batavia. waterstreetstudios.org April 24–25
reality of what’s possible isn’t too far off. There are specific, involuntary facial expressions that, once you see them, will tell you what the interviewer thought of your answer. There are physical movements and word choices that have statistically proven to influence others to make 70 percent more favorable decisions about you. Learn more in this dynamic presentation sponsored by workNet Dupage. Free. 8:30 a.m. workNet Dupage Career Center, 2525 Cabot Dr., Lisle. worknetdupage.org
David Baldacci
SPECIAL EVENT
CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE This is a garage-saler’s dream! Over 100 participants open their garages for this citywide Geneva treasure hunt. Stop by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 8 S. Third Street on April 22 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to pick up maps and instructions. Sales run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. genevachamber.com April 24
April 24 LITERARY
DAVID BALDACCI The American novelist presents Walk The Wire, his newest thriller in the Memory Man series. This is a presentation, Q&A, and book-signing event; each ticket includes a copy of the new book and admits one or two people. $35–$46. 7 p.m. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln. andersonsbookshop.com
SPECIAL EVENT
JEDI MIND TRICKS FOR JOB SEEKERS Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could wave your hand in front of an employer and say, “You will release the other candidates from consideration and hire me for this position”? The
April 25
year, over 80 crafters will showcase the newest trends in the handmade marketplace, from clothing and accessories to home decor, apothecary, and specialty items. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. O’Neill Middle School, 635 59th St., Downers Grove. dgjwc.org
SPECIAL EVENT
HANDMADE MARKET For over 25 years, the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club has sponsored the Handmade Market, featuring Chicago-area crafters and artisans. This
April 25 SPECIAL EVENT
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION Enjoy a variety of activities including a farmers’ market, paper shredding,
Chris Greene Quartet
NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 81
green vendors, used book giveaway, bicycle tune-ups, children’s activities, and more! Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Free. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva. genevaparks.org
gifts from many of the Midwest’s best woodcarvers. Free with $5 parking fee. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. cantigny.org April 26 MUSIC
April 25 CHARITABLE
RAINFORESTS OF THE WHIRL One of the highlights of the spring social calendar, Whirl is Brookfield Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser— attended by over 700 corporate and civic leaders—with proceeds supporting the Chicago Zoological Society’s award-winning conservation, education, and animal welfare programs. 6:30 p.m. $700. Sheraton Grand Chicago, 301 E. Water St., Chicago. czs.org April 25–26 SPECIAL EVENT
WOODCARVING SHOW This fine art exhibit features one-of-akind, handcrafted collectible woodcarvings, turnings, wood-burning art, ornaments, and special occasion
BEETHOVEN’S 250TH Fox Valley Orchestra, under the direction of Stephen Squires, celebrates Beethoven by playing his Symphony No. 8, op 93, F major, and Mass op. 86, C major. $11–$20. 3 p.m. Crimi Auditorium at Aurora University, 1347 Prairie St., Aurora. foxvalleyorchestra.org April 26 MUSIC
VOICES OF HOPE Naperville Men’s Glee Club hosts its 32nd annual 2020 Spring Showcase by bringing together high energy collegiate a cappella groups, the Thundertones and Amplify from Wheaton College and the College of DuPage Chamber Singers. Fun for the whole family! $11–$17. 3 p.m. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave. napervillemensgleeclub.org
April 28 LITERARY
COURTNEY CARVER In Project 333, Courtney Carver— minimalist expert and author of Soulful Simplicity—takes a new approach to living simply, starting with your wardrobe. Project 333 promises that not only can you survive with just 33 items in your closet for three months, but you’ll thrive just like the thousands of women who have taken on the challenge and never looked back. Let the decluttering begin! Each ticket includes a copy of the new book and admits one person and access to the signing line. $26. 7:30 p.m. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln. andersonsbookshop.com April 30–June 14 THEATER
KINKY BOOTS Charlie Price is a reluctant shoemaker. Lola is a fierce drag queen. These two could not be any more different, but when they find common ground in shoes, they see a whole new world of possibilities open up to them that will turn their small town upside down, and just might save Charlie’s failing shoe factory. $36–$74. Various times. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. paramountaurora.com April 30–May 31 NAPERVILLE: A DRAMEDY ABOUT SECOND CHANCES It’s Naperville, 2012. Anne is working on a new project, T.C. is captaining the first shift as a new manager, and Candice and son Howard, back from Seattle, arrive at her favorite coffee spot: a Caribou. What follows is a day full of eccentricity, cups of coffee, and affecting conversation, creating a turning point that shows how a community can add to your life. $40–$42. Various times. Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. atthemac.org April 30–June 13 THEATER
Woodcarving Show
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SHREK THE MUSICAL An unlikely hero, Shrek is determined to reclaim his precious swamp from exiled fairytale misfits with the help of his wisecracking sidekick, Donkey. Together, they find themselves on a life-changing journey to rescue a princess who is locked away in an isolated
PHOTOS COURTESY CANTIGNY PARK, CHRIST CHURCH OAK BROOK
THEATER
The Passion: A Modern Musical Drama
a Taco Showdown: Several trucks will be feature tacos on their menu, and guests decide the winner. DuPage Children’s Museum will provide hands-on activities for the kids at this family-friendly event. $5–$10. Noon to 7 p.m. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. eventbrite.com May 3 MUSIC
DUPAGE CHORALE Presenting their spring repertoire, featuring the music of Gounod, A. Ramirez, G. Walker, S. Kirchner, and others, DuPage Chorale is a large community chorus based at the College of DuPage under the direction of Lee Kesselman since 1981. Adult singers of all voice types and ages are welcome. $15/student; $17/adult. 7:30 p.m. Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. atthemac.org May 3 THEATER
THE PASSION: A MODERN MUSICAL DRAMA NEW DATE
Since its premiere in 2004, The Passion has become a Palm Sunday tradition. The Passion powerfully tells the story of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection through song. This 50-minute modern musical drama is presented by the 100-voice Chancel Choir, a 40-piece professional orchestra and professional soloists, conducted by Noelle Combs, and featuring tenor William Combs of Lyric Opera of Chicago in the role of Jesus. This family-friendly event includes a multimedia presentation. 9 and 10:45 a.m. Christ Church Oak Brook, 501 Oak Brook Rd., Oak Brook. christchurch.us castle guarded by a fire-breathing, lovesick dragon. $25. Various times. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace. drurylanetheatre.com May 1
greatest works. A world premiere by Mead composer-in-residence Missy Mazzoli opens the program. $55–$90. 7:30 p.m. Wheaton College, Edman Memorial Chapel, 401 E. Franklin, Wheaton. cso.org
MUSIC
CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA IN WHEATON Riccardo Muti conducts two of Beethoven’s immortal symphonies; the graceful Fourth, described by composer Robert Schumann as “a slender Greek maiden between two Norse giants,” and the mighty, driving Seventh, which many, including Beethoven himself, considered one of his
May 2 SPECIAL EVENT
NAPERVILLE FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL The second annual food truck festival features over 30 of the area’s best food trucks, live DJ entertainment, beer garden, and a vendor village featuring local businesses. To celebrate the Cinco de Mayo weekend there will be
May 3 FITNESS
WALK FOR WELLNESS HOUSE Cancer survivors, families, friends and volunteers will gather in support of people living with cancer at this annual fundraiser. Participants may choose between a 3K walk or a 5K run. Proceeds benefit Wellness House, a place offering cancer patients programs in exercise and nutrition, stress management, support groups and counseling, information, and education and child/ family programs. $30–$40. 7 a.m. Wellness House, 131 North County Line Rd., Hinsdale. wellnesshouse.org NAPERVILLEMAGAZINE.COM / APRIL 2020 83
ENCORE
JAY LENO The veteran comedian gets out of the garage and back onstage in Aurora Interview by Mark Loehrke STANDUP IN HIS BLOOD I’ve always loved standup, but I never really thought that it would be my job. As it turned out, I was a standup comedian who was lucky enough to get a talk show and lucky that it lasted for 22 years. To me, standup is the purest form of comedy—you really find out if something is funny. A lot of times you do jokes on TV and they don’t really land, but people laugh anyway because there are signs and applause meters and all that kind of stuff. But when people buy a ticket for a standup performance, they only laugh if they think it’s funny because they’re paying for it.
CAR GUY I love doing this show (Jay Leno’s Garage)— just being around anything that rolls, explodes, or makes noise. Kids have phones now and can go places virtually. But I grew up in a rural area about 20 miles south of the New Hampshire border, and back then you needed to get physically from point A to point B. I remember uptown was seven miles away—if you rode your bike, it took the whole day to get there and by the time you did everybody was gone. So you couldn’t wait until you got your driver’s license because that was like the greatest day of your life. Jay Leno’s April 17 performance at Paramount Theatre will be rescheduled; see paramountaurora.com for more details.
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PHOTO COURTESY GUTTMAN
THE CONTINUITY OF COMEDY I don’t think comedy has changed a whole lot. Music changes and fashion changes, but jokes don’t change much—what’s funny is funny. If there’s any difference today, it’s probably in terms of the audience’s attention span. When you watch [Bob] Newhart on The Tonight Show from the ’70s, he might do a nine-minute monologue with a full minute setup. Nowadays, you have to hit it right out of the box. You have to come out and get a laugh from the first second, or else people just move on or change the channel.
let the VOTING BEGIN Your opinion matters! Our 2020 Best of Naperville readers’ choice poll will begin on January 1, and voting will continue through June 1, 2020. S LI
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Visit napervillemagazine.com/best-of to nominate your favorite local businesses in 50 categories.*
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