Suburban Life AUGUST 2014
MAGAZINE
Go Back to
SCHOOL with Susan Paszkowski And other outstanding educators and volunteers! PAGE 8
12 AVERY COONLEY DIFFERENCE An early start for excellence is the
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INSIDE
FAMILY IN FOCUS: BACK TO SCHOOL 8 CLASSROOM HEROES Meet some outstanding educators and volunteers from our local schools, committed to making a difference. 12 LITTLE KIDS, BIG OPPORTUNITIES Creativity is key at The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove. 16 BONBONS AND BUS ROUTES Family columnist Michelle Stien weighs the pros and cons of her newfound free time, and how to choose between a return to work with the “me” time she craves. 17 PACK UP RIGHT Get great tips for back-to- school.
HOME & LIFESTYLE 19 RAISE THE ROOF Take advantage of high ceilings and large windows with tips from the experts at Kristin Petro Interiors. 20 WANDER THROUGH WHEATON Rediscover the charm of this historic downtown. 26 BUILDING BOLINGBROOK Advantages abound in this bustling local suburb. 31 FROM THE BOTTOM, UP Basements offer ample space for creative renovations. Get expert advice from columnist Jen Crockett.
DINING & ENTERTAINING
20
WANDER THROUGH WHEATON
Rediscover the charm of this historic downtown. Photo by Jason Adrian
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32 NOT-SO-BASIC FOOD GROUP Where great food and single adults meet and mingle, something delicious is bound to happen! 34 TICKET TO RIDE Commuter columnist Vicki Martinka Peterson hops off the train for some great alfresco dining options. 35 SUMMERTIME SIPS Wine expert Alixe Lischett of Cabernet and Company offers her favorite wines of the season.
HEALTH & WELLNESS 36 SHOT IN THE DARK In the midst of the great vaccination debate, here are some things you should know about keeping your children safe. 39 COMPLEX COMPLEXION Find out how to keep skin clean and bright, from a skilled dermatologist.
OUT & ABOUT 40 ARTIST SHOWCASE Ina Derly of Naperville shares her liquid mosaic, “Still Melting” 42 CALENDAR Summer festivals, celebrations, cruise nights and concerts fill the close of the summer season in the suburbs.
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Suburban Life’s Inaugural
Join Suburban Life in recognizing outstanding young professionals in Chicago’s western suburbs who have made significant contributions to their profession, company, and community. Ticket includes lunch, networking, and program. Thursday, September 25, 2014 | 11:30 - 1:00 p.m. | Waterleaf Restaurant, Glen Ellyn | $40
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Suburban Life
H
ow did it happen that it finally got warm and sunny, and we already are going back to school? The summer break seemed to fly past me this year, pausing only long enough to serve as a reminder to buy supplies and get school physicals scheduled. Most students in the Chicago area return to the classroom this month, and with that return comes all that school life has to offer – the youngsters are filled with excitement and trepidation, the teens carry an air of coolness as they stroll the hallways, and the teachers respond with a mix of excitability and frenzy, as they push through to get all the classrooms ready and the lessons prepared. This month in Suburban Life Magazine, we meet some of those teachers, at schools both public and private, throughout our communities. We discover what they value most in the school day and how the efforts of outstanding educators are making our children’s lives filled with interest and promise.
But there still are a few weeks remaining of Summer break before the school buses hit the streets, so we tell you all about some great events and happenings, as well. In Wheaton, Cantigny Gardens plays host to the Chicago Sinfonietta, and Bolingbrook makes plans for its annual Jubilee. Make dinner plans at one of three featured restaurants known for their outdoor patios, or check out a club for singles, which embraces food and friendship around the dinner table. There’s still so much to see and do this summer, and this month, in our communities. We hope you’ll join us as we wrap the season up in style, and in print! Thanks for reading–
Sherri Dauskurdas Editor
MAGAZINE
Suburban Life Magazine Published by Shaw Media 1101 W. 31st Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 Phone: 630-368-1100 suburbanlifemagazine@shawmedia.com General Manager Laura Burke lburke@shawmedia.com Advertising Bill Korbel 630-427-6230 bkorbel@shawmedia.com Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com
We heed the advice of child psychologists on how to lesson the stress of the back-to-school season, get the scoop from the CDC on the importance of vaccinations, and what to look out for in the process.
Designer Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com on the
COVER
Susan Paszkowki loves this time of year, gearing up for backto-school. Meet her, and other outstanding educators beginning on page 6. Photos by JASON ADRIAN Salon Services by MARIO TRICOCI ALONS & DAY SPAS in Oak Brook Stylist - Mandy Makeup - Penny
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Suburban Life
Account Executive Kathleen Sergent 630-427-6208 ksergent@shawmedia.com Correspondents Yvonne Benson, Tom Witom, Ryan Terrell Stephanie Kohl, Vicki Martinka Peterson, Melissa Riske, Michelle Stien, Elizabeth Harmon, Hannah Peterson Photographers Ron McKinney, Joe Perez, Jason Adrian, Lynn Logan
Suburban Life Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Suburban Life Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
PIONEERING PROFESSOR Amid upward climb, educator keeps an eye on where she came from By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE
She’s been called a pioneer; after all she’s one of four Latina law school deans in the nation. Yet Jennifer Rosato Perea says she is more comfortable relating her story of hard work and telling students how at one time, she was just like them. The child of working class parents, Rosato Perea was a first-generation college student with a dream of making the world better. She still can recall how nervous she felt as she set off to an Ivy League college and later law school. She didn’t have a lawyer in the family that served as a mentor; rather she was charting a new course. Today she is the dean and a law professor at Northern Illinois University College of Law.
Photo by Ron McKinney
“Students tend to put the dean high upon a pedestal, so I find it helpful to point out the similarities we share and convey that I was once exactly in their shoes,” Rosato Perea said. Law school wasn’t the goal when Rosato Perea entered Cornell University. Initially she wanted to be a teacher or social worker. She was drawn to working with children who had been abused and neglected. Yet it was while working with children that she began to realize one way she could affect more change would be in the field of law. “I thought I could make more of a difference if I were a lawyer rather than a social worker,” she said.
“In retrospect it all makes sense,” she said. “I have been training for the last 20 years to be exactly where I am now. Along the journey, I’ve learned a few things, and grown in ways that have brought me to where I am today-the dean of a public law school.” Christine Saba, special assistant to the dean at Northern Illinois University College of Law, said Rosato Perea is completely energized by the many roles she fills at the school. She is a mentor, counselor, leader, collaborative partner and the face of the law school. “As she tends to the growth and development of NIU Law, it is obvious that she draws on her unique background and experiences,” Saba wrote in her nomination of Rosato Perea as a Woman of Distinction. In her years at the school Rosato Perea has seen the school through growth and development and there is still more to accomplish. Fundraising, building new collaborations and enhancing the school’s reputation are among her top goals. Assistant Dean David Gaebler said Rosato Perea has motivated faculty to work together to build more experiential learning opportunities where students can have handson training in the field of law. “She unified the faculty,” he said. “She has an incredible level of energy. It’s infectious.”
She still had a desire to teach. Rosato Perea found a way to bring together her desires for advocacy, interest in the law and love of teaching and became a law school professor.
Rosato Perea also makes a point to spend time in the classroom, teaching courses and working with new law school professors as well.
“It was a great fit. It combined all my passions and skills,” she said.
“I try not to forget where I came from and the reason I do what I do for the students,” she said.
Her strengths and skills continued to shine as she ascended the education ladder. This fall she begins her sixth year as dean at Northern
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Illinois University College of Law.
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Photo by Jason Adrian Photography
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BACK TO
SCHOOL
with Susan Paszkowski
By STEPHANIE KOHL
Susan Paszkowski loves the month of August. The Cass Junior High School teacher said one of the things she loves about teaching is that every year is a fresh start, and everyone is motivated, eager and happy to begin the new school year in August. “Sometimes I feel bad for my husband, that he doesn’t get that in his job,” Paszkowski said. With the exception of her first year of teaching when Paszkowski worked at a school in Berwyn, she has spent the remainder of her time with School District 63. She’s been with Cass for 14 years. Although she started her education at University of Illinois at Chicago as a biology major because she loved science, she quickly changed her major to elementary education with a focus on science and math. “One of my brothers used to take me to his lab at DePaul and show me around, as well as do experiments with me,” she said. As a child, Paszkowski loved to play teacher, something she and her fellow teachers talk about all the time. “I’ve just always been around children,” she said. “And I enjoy explaining things to kids and making that connection.” In her first year of student teaching, Paszkowski was assigned to a third grade classroom. It didn’t take her long to realize that wasn’t the age group for her. Her first job as a teacher, she was assigned to sixth grade and fell in love with the age group. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
“It’s a time when they’re becoming more independent and trying new things and I like to guide them,” Paszkowski said. “… If you can find a way to relate to them and spark their interest, it’s just great to connect with them.” In the upcoming school year, in addition to teaching her sixth graders, Paszkowski will also teach eighth grade science, a challenge she has been preparing for all summer. “This is by far going to be one of my biggest challenges,” she said. “… I’m excited, mostly because it’s a challenge for me and that’s when I do my best.” For Paszkowski, keeping her kids engaged is a top priority. All of her classes are lab based, so every day students prep the lab, do the lab, analyze the data and then have a discussion to relate the lab to real life. Paszkowski often uses video clips or music in her lessons, like playing “The Electric Slide” when students study electricity. Ultimately, she focuses on showing the students how science relates to their real life experiences. “You can’t hide from it,” she said. “The science is everywhere.” When students make that connection, Paszkowski said you can see it on their faces. “Sometimes I want to jump up and down because (as a teacher), you always wonder if it is clicking in their brains,” she said. In addition to teaching science, Paszkowski also started a recycling program at her school, earning her a nomination from those in her building for the Illinois State Board of Education’s 2013-14 Those Who Excel awards. She attended
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an awards ceremony in October and accepted her Those Who Excel award for Merit. “I was really humbled by the whole thing,” she said. The recycling program Paszkowski started is part of the Dream Machine Recycle Rally, a national competition sponsored by Pepsico. The program has collected 300,000 items in the 2.5 years the school has been running it. Last year the school placed seventh nationally for the amount of items it recycled. Paszkowski decided to start the program when she heard people talking about how things were not being recycled in the lunchroom. She signed up for lunchroom duty, saw it first hand and decided the students and school could do something about recycling. In addition to recycling items in the lunchroom, students are allowed and encouraged to bring their recyclables from home to recycle at school. Although the Dream Machine Recycle Rally focuses on plastic bottles and aluminum cans, the school recycles everything. “The point is to get (students) in the habit of recycling and teach kids to be the advocates of recycling in their home,” Paszkowski said. Paszkowski’s exploratory science class is responsible for collecting the items for the competition, weighing them and reporting the results for the competition. Schools are eligible to win money for green initiatives at their school and other prizes.
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PASSION
Drives Bensenville Teacher By ELIZABETH HARMON
As a child, Amy Walsh was inspired by an excellent teacher. Today, Walsh has become one. A 2013 finalist for Illinois Teacher of the Year, Walsh was been with Bensenville District 2, since 2010, and was nominated by Leah Gauthier, the district’s Director of Instructional Services. “She’s definitely a go-getter and not afraid to try new things. Amy’s on the forefront of implementing new ideas and committed to helping others,” says Gauthier. Walsh, who has taught at Tioga and Chippewa Schools, felt that the honor extended to all of her Bensenville colleagues. “We all work hard, so I felt like it was representing all the Bensenville teachers. I’ve been a teacher for only seven years, so to have an honor like this early in my career was very exciting,” she says. An Arlington Heights native, Walsh attended Eisenhower Elementary School and found early inspiration in her fifth grade teacher. “Mrs. Warden was in her last year of teaching and she had so much energy and passion. I’d thought before about being a teacher, but seeing that she still had so much love for it was the clincher for me,” Walsh says. Walsh was particular impressed by her teacher’s interest in her students’ lives beyond the
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classroom. “If we had a concert or sporting event, she’d remember to ask us the next day how it went. It made us feel like we were an important part of the classroom community,” says Walsh.
“It’s not always a neat fit, but we try to integrate the subjects as much as possible,” Walsh says.
She studied elementary education at Augustana College in Rock Island, then after graduation in 2006, joined Carol Stream District 93, where she taught second and third grade. In 2010, she took a fourth-grade teaching position with Bensenville District 2.
“The Common Core represents a shift toward developing thinking skills,” Walsh says. “It’s not just about teaching students to find the main idea, but once they find it, what do they do with it? What impact does it have?”
“I found out that I love teaching fourth grade the most. The kids are independent but still need you. The goal is to build their capabilities. I love watching that moment when they realize they can do something themselves. It’s a real shift to independence,” she says. Bensenville fourth graders work in broad thematic units covering the American Revolution, Animals and Recycling, which integrate many subject areas. For example, while learning about the American Revolution, Language Arts lessons would include reading stories about children living in colonial times, and writing about them. Social studies would focus on history. Math and science might touch upon figuring distances soldiers marched to battlefields, or important scientific discoveries of the day.
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The shift toward integrated learning took place four years ago, with the introduction of the new learning standards known as Common Core.
Under the direction of Assistant Superintendent for Learning, Dr. Kay Dugan, Bensenville teachers learned to integrate the new learning standards in the classroom. “The standards are the foundation of what we teach, but it allows a lot of individuality,” Walsh says. Her success and enthusiasm resulted in an invitation to serve as a demonstration teacher, where she not only taught students, but also her peers. “Our demonstration program highlights what teachers in our own district are doing in the classroom. Sometimes teachers go out for professional development, but find it difficult to implement what they’ve learned. We look for teachers right here, that are doing good work and invite others to see them in action,” says Gauthier. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
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Observing teachers are able to watch, then ask questions about how to tailor new ideas to fit their students and teaching styles. “The follow-up is so important, and the demonstrating teachers become a resource that’s right in our district,” says Gauthier. Walsh’s role as a peer teacher expanded further last year, when she became one of two District 2 consulting teachers. Consulting teachers do not have a class of their own, but instead rotate into the classrooms of newly-hired teachers, to demonstrate and mentor. “It was a hard decision because my passion is with working with students but it was the best decision I could have made. I’m taking my passion for the job and passing it along to other teachers, so now I feel like I’m working with all of their students too,” she says. Walsh still lives in Arlington Heights the neighborhood and sees occasionally sees her old fifth-grade teacher out in the community. “We sent the article about me being a finalist to her old district to pass along. I hope she read it and knows how much she inspired me,” Walsh says.
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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 11
Little kids
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BIG
OPPORTUNITIES Creativity abounds within Avery Coonley’s preschool program By STEPHANIE KOHL Tucked away between downtown Downers Grove and the Maple Grove County Forest Preserve, a surprising respite from the bustle of the suburban landscape, sits The Avery Coonley School. Founded in 1906, it is an independent, coeducational day school for academically bright and gifted students ages three-years-old through eighth grade. Patty Crylen serves as director of the Early Childhood Program, offering preschool for three-year-olds that provides a warm caring environment where children are respected and encouraged to become their best; socially, emotionally, physically and academically.
Photo provided
Crylen says the campus serves as a wonderful setting for early childhood learning, with grassy and wooded areas, a reflecting pond, and an opportunity for students to play outside every day. The two-story, former residence of the Head of School, houses the early childhood program, yet still conveys the warmth of a home. This setting instills feelings of
comfort and safety, allowing children to make smooth transition to school. Creativity is an essential piece of learning at The Avery Coonley School, with play being a large part of how students learn. “When you give the children the opportunity to create things on their own, they are much more creative,” Crylen says. She adds that achievement is not measured by the end product, but rather by a process that encourages growth. Children feel safe to explore, create, make mistakes, figure things out, fall down and see that they can get up and try again. “We do a lot of things for which there isn’t necessarily a right or wrong answer. Encouraging inquiry in children allows for exploration,” Crylen says. “Exploration through play is very important for these children because that is how they learn.” The creativity of this program is one of the things that led Nicole Gilhooley to Avery Coonley. She has had three children complete
-Continued on page 14
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“Exploration through play is very important for these young children because that is how they learn.” Patty Crylen, Director of the Early Childhood Program at The Avery Coonley School -Continued from page 13 the early childhood program, and works as the Assistant Director of Admission and Marketing. “(My oldest son) was a little shy and very bright even at two-and a half years old. He was already excited about learning his letters and numbers, loved books and had an incredible memory,” she says. “We wanted a program that could support his development socially and emotionally in an more academic environment than a traditional preschool.” Gilhooley adds that she loves how the teachers model behavior for the children in order to encourage positive peer modeling within the classroom. “Each time I left my children for their day in EC, I knew there was no place better for them to be. They were loved, challenged, cared for and encouraged in so many ways.” Crylen says the key is that the Early Childhood team loves what they do and cares about each of the students. With a seven-to-one student to teacher ratio, teachers also have the time to give students feedback and really listen to them. “Children are just naturally curious.” Crylen
says. She adds that in this age of quick access to information, students need to know how to gather information, evaluate that information, and then process that information so that they can actually use it. Students need to know how to think, solve problems, look at things from different perspectives, be creative and not let fear of failure keep them from achieving their dreams.
potential school before registering.
“One quality of the children in EC is their joy of learning. They soak up so much knowledge in a short period of time and have so much fun doing it.” Gilhooley says, adding her children were always eager to share projects they had done and discuss what they learned at school.
“From an admission perspective, we encourage families to visit and see what the Early Childhood Program is all about. Tours include an observation of a class in session, a small group discussion with the director of the program and an overview of the admission process,” Gilhooley says.
“Although our very youngest students learn a lot while in our program, our goal is not to fill their heads with facts while quickly covering a subject, but rather to open up their minds and expand their horizons while uncovering many facets of a subject,” says Crylen. “The connection a child makes with a teacher influences his love of learning and his selfconfidence,” Crylen says. “Having a team of certified teachers separates our Early Childhood Program from other schools.” Crylen acknowledged how difficult it can be for a parent to find what is often the first school experience for their child, and advised that parents make sure to visit the classroom of a
The application process includes an online application and a small group screening, where up to nine children play together for about an hour while being observed. It is a combination of free playtime and some assessments, like determining if the child is able to focus for a short period of time and how well he or she is able to follow directions.
The Early Childhood Program offers a morning or afternoon class, in a three- or five-day program. Classes are limited to 21 students, so the ratio always will be seven-to-one. Tours at Avery Coonley are offered on Wednesday mornings. Early screenings are held in December, with at least two more screenings in the spring. Acceptance letters go out in March for the following fall. For more information, visit www.averycoonley.org.
Photos by Joe Perez
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BRING ON THE
Bonbons! I
t recently occurred to my husband that with our son starting kindergarten, we’d save some money on preschool. I reminded him that the money we are saving is actually going toward my bonbon fund. This fall marks the end of an era for this mama when my second child starts going to school all day. It truly is a bittersweet time for me. When I quit my job six years ago to stay home with my daughter, knowing that we would soon be adding another member of the family, I thought for sure I would end up going back to work once both kids were in school. I spent a good amount of time trying to think of what I would do in my “next life” after being a stay-at-home mom. The further I got into my role, the further I pushed those thoughts to the back of my mind. Now, I am acutely aware that time has come. Or has it? The whole time I’ve been home, I’ve kept myself busy with volunteer work, teaching group fitness classes and writing. Many of those things I did while finding ways to shuffle, schlep and bring my kids along with me. Once they started school part-time, I tried to fit as much in while they were in school, but I spent most of my time traveling between preschool and bus stops. I’m going from two and a half hours, three days a week of free time to six and a half hours every day. While that affords me flexibility to work, I’m
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left with a feeling of apprehension. I still want to be home when they get off the bus and be able to take them to their activities. I still want to be able to volunteer in their classes. I still want to be able to teach group fitness classes and volunteer on various committees. Going back to work would eliminate many of those things from the equation. But are those things enough? Can I have my bonbons and eat them too? I’m not sure where my self-imposed deadline of going back to work comes from, but I guess all I need to do is look at the fact that I just referred to it as “self-imposed” and there’s my answer. My identity has been as a stay-at-home mom for the last six years and I got used to the idea that my “job” was caring for my children. But now that the kids will be
Can I have my bonbons and eat them too? at school all day, I fear that people will think I’m just sitting around eating bonbons, taking long naps, getting mani-pedis and going to the mall. Worst of all, I’m worried I might get bored. I don’t know why I doubt myself so much
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since I never have been the type of person to just sit around and do nothing. Why would I start now? So, here’s what I’m going to do. Cut myself some slack. Enjoy not having to entertain the kids all day. I’m going to grocery shop — alone — and save a ton of money by not having to bribe the kids with treats or toys just to get through the shopping trip. Perhaps I will use the money I save to buy more bonbons! I’m going to try to teach more group fitness classes during the day since my window of opportunity will open up and I won’t be bound by preschool pickup and drop-off. After all, I need to burn off all those bonbons. I’m going to go to my committee meetings and not have to lug a bag of tricks with me to occupy the kids for an hour. I’m going to write more. So, when I wave goodbye to the kids this month as the bus pulls away, I’m surely going to be emotional. I’m going to miss my little partner in crime. But then I’m going to march inside the house and enjoy a few bonbons for the symbolism’s sake. I’m going to let go of my own self-imposed guilt knowing that at some point something will come along that
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Tips for a great BACK-TO-SCHOOL TRANSITION Provided by Ted Feinberg, EdD, NCSP, & Katherine C. Cowan National Association of School Psychologists
Getting a new school year off to a good start can influence children’s attitude, confidence, and performance both socially and academically. The transition from August to September can be difficult for both children and parents. Even children who are eager to return to class must adjust to the greater levels of activity, structure, and, for some, pressures associated with school life. The degree of adjustment depends on the child, but parents can help their children (and the rest of the family) manage the increased pace of life by planning ahead, being realistic, and maintaining a positive attitude. Here are a few suggestions to help ease the transition and promote a successful school experience, before the first day even arrives: GOOD PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH. Be sure your child is in good physical and mental health. Schedule doctor and dental checkups early. Discuss any concerns you have over your child’s emotional or psychological development with your pediatrician. Your doctor can help determine if your concerns are normal, age-appropriate issues or require further assessment.
will be a good fit for me to jump back in the workforce. Until then I’m going to keep doing what I’ve been doing and wait with anticipation for the bus to pull up each day — well, most days anyway.
REVIEW ALL OF THE INFORMATION. Review the material sent by the school as soon as it arrives. These packets include important information about your child’s teacher, room number, school supply requirements, sign ups for after-school sports and activities, school calendar dates, bus transportation, health and emergency forms, and volunteer opportunities.
VISIT SCHOOL WITH YOUR CHILD. If your child is young or in a new school, visit the school with your child. Meeting the teacher, locating their classroom, locker, lunchroom, etc., will help ease pre-school anxieties and also allow your child to ask questions about the new environment. Call ahead to make sure the teachers will be available to introduce themselves to your child.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR. Make a note of important dates, especially backto-school nights. This is especially important if you have children in more than one school and need to juggle obligations
MINIMIZE CLOTHES SHOPPING WOES. Buy only the essentials. Summer clothes are usually fine during the early fall, but be sure to have at least one pair of sturdy shoes. Check with your school to confirm dress code guidelines.
MAKE COPIES. Make copies of all your child’s health and emergency information for reference. Health forms are typically good for more than a year and can be used again for camps, extracurricular activities, and the following school year.
DESIGNATE AND CLEAR A PLACE TO DO HOMEWORK. Older children should have the option of studying in their room or a quiet area of the house. Younger children usually need an area set aside in the family room or kitchen to facilitate adult monitoring, supervision, and encouragement.
BUY SCHOOL SUPPLIES EARLY. Try to get the supplies as early as possible and fill the backpacks a week or two before school starts. Older children can help do this, but make sure they use a checklist that you can review.
Write This Down with Michelle Stien
Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 4 and 6. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with other suburban women to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”
m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
TURN OFF THE TV. Encourage your child to play quiet games, do puzzles, flash cards, color, or read as early morning activities instead of watching television. This will help ease your child into the learning process and school routine. If possible, maintain this practice throughout the school year.
RE-ESTABLISH THE BEDTIME AND MEALTIME ROUTINES. Plan to re-establish the bedtime and mealtime routines (especially breakfast) at least one week before school starts. Prepare your child for this change by talking with your child about the benefits of school routines in terms of not becoming over tired or overwhelmed by school work and activities. FAMILY IN FOCUS
SELECT A SPOT TO KEEP BACKPACKS AND LUNCH BOXES. Designate a spot for your children to place their school belongings as well as a place to put important notices and information sent home for you to see. Explain that emptying their backpack each evening is part of their responsibility, even for young children. FREEZE A FEW EASY DINNERS. It will be much easier on you if you have dinner prepared so that meal preparation will not add to household tensions during the first week of school. SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 17
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18 | AUGUST 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE
FAMILY IN FOCUS
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any of us love the spaciousness of rooms with high ceilings, but it can be difficult to know what to do with all of that soaring space. Two-story great rooms are wonderful, but how do you decorate them? Adding architectural interest with molding and trim or painting the ceiling in darker tones are excellent ways to draw your eye upward. Adding wood beams or coffers to the ceiling can help make an expansive room feel cozy. When decorating tall walls, remember that art does not have to be placed only at eye level. Consider using the entire wall as a canvas for your collections. When placing artwork, keep the more detailed images closer to eye level and position the larger, more graphic images higher, for easiest viewing. Consider artwork or wall decor that is large in scale, or create groups of artwork to help fill empty wall spaces.
m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
Tall windows allow for wonderful views and natural light, but can also provide a dilemma when it comes to window treatments. To take full advantage of great views, consider leaving the windows bare. Decorative panels falling from the ceiling to the floor can frame a nice view and create drama. For privacy or light control, consider automated window treatments. Shades can be controlled with a remote control, and can be hard-wired, battery-operated or even solar-powered. Some automated window treatments even can be controlled with your smartphone! While rooms with tall ceilings, walls and windows can be a challenge to decorate, they also add a unique style to your home and can provide a wonderful canvas for expressing your style.
HOME & LIFESTYLE
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 19
Walking through
Wheaton F
ounded on solid, Christian ground, the citizens of Wheaton were eager to build and share their city.
Since 1859, Wheaton College, formerly the Illinois Institute, was dubbed an historic landmark and considered a community fixture for more than 150 years. However, this accredited and wellknown campus needed a bigger draw to parallel its success. With the founder’s strategic move to bring in the railroad and the “Wheaton Depot” station, the city was able to rise up around it, creating what is now a bustling business district. Storefronts reflecting the past and the present preserve the quaint qualities of small town living, attracting tourists from the surrounding suburbs and beyond. Take, for example, the Wheaton Theater. Opened in May of 1925, this theater was home to Vaudeville acts, silent films, and live dramas. When it closed its doors in 2006, the community cried out to renovate the theater to its former glory, but the plans were later rejected due to lack of funds and the iconic theater remained
20 | AUGUST 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE
vacant and untouched. Eight years later, that renovation is finally coming to fruition. “With the help of the city, a committee was formed and put in charge of fundraising so that the theater could be built to accommodate live music, stage dramas, small concerts, as well as reemerge as a working theater for screening films. It will be a multi-use space with a new face lift,” says Paula Barrington, Director of the Downtown Wheaton Association. The exact date of renovation and construction has not been disclosed. Surrounding the historic venue, Wheaton’s city streets are lined with stores tailored to everyone, from consignment shops to unique boutiques. Places with creative names like Two Shopaholics, Jeans & a Cute Top, Frocks and Frills, or Rumpleshirtskin illicit smiles and ‘must see’ mentalities from tourists. Stacey Jansen, owner of a unique boutique, Bella Roba, says, “we couldn’t be happier with the outcome of our first year of business in Wheaton. We have developed so many great relationships with people here--customers and other business
HOME & LIFESTYLE
owners alike.” This store’s european elegance seen in it’s inventory and decor is not sold anywhere else in the area. “I’m happy to say there will be many new businesses opening up in the next few months. P.S. Flowers, which is a home décor and silk flower shop, as well as NEXT yoga studio, and Moore Toys & Gadgets, are only some of what is to come. At least six other businesses and restaurants are moving in and the city has received five more bids for next year,” says Barrington. “It’s very exciting news.” After a nice day of shopping, popular restaurants like Muldoon’s or Ivy are perfect destinations if you are in need of a great meal or refreshing drink with co-workers and friends. If in search of a healthy dining experience, try The Cellar Bistro. Winner of the 2014 Diner’s Choice award, and located in the downtown historic district, this small business provides a light alternative menu to that of its neighbors. It’s antioxidant and preservative-free delicacies leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. Should you prefer a worldly dining experience, m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
A welcoming downtown, filled with history and happenings By HANNAH PETERSON
Photos by Jason Adrian Photography
located on West Front Street is Suzette’s Creperie. What began at a small crepe cart in the streets of Chicago, is now a double storefront restaurant and patisserie serving the finest Parisian cuisine. Awarded 2014’s Business of the Year by the Downtown Wheaton Business Association, this French bistro’s ‘joie de vivre’ is a must experience for all family and friends. On a hot summer day, a nice cool treat or sweet nosh may be a perfect excuse for an outing downtown. Kilwin’s, Wheaton’s newest chocolatier, boasts a prime location along West Front Street, kiddie corner to the train station. A scoop of gelato is the perfect treat to enjoy while you sit back and cool off by the historic fountain. One of the biggest weekend draws for business is the French Market, offered from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. every Saturday morning. Modeled after Parisian street fairs, the blending of both local and traveling vendors combine to make the largest market community of its kind in the region. “Vendors selling jewelry, hand made crafts, art, flowers, as well as freshly grown produce fill the parking lot with hundreds of people looking to
m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
buy, and experience this event,” says Barrington. This market has garnered so much attention from the community over the years that the city is in talks to construct a permanent structure allowing this market to last longer and remain protected from every kind of weather. According to Barrington, “The city is planning to adopt a new street plan in the next 10-15 years which is going to slightly change the face of downtown Wheaton. Within this proposed plan are the details regarding the permanent structure for the market. During the off season, the structure would then act as extra parking for the community.” Summertime in Wheaton also provides many activities for locals and its tourists. Whether you go to concerts in Memorial Park, festivals, local community plays, or wine tastings, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. “The Wheaton Park District offers so many unique facilities, like Arrowhead Golf Club, The DuPage County Historical Museum, and two aquatic facilities,” says Margie Wilhelmi, Director of Marketing for the Wheaton Park District. HOME & LIFESTYLE
“There’s also Cosley Zoo, a six-acre nationallyrecognized zoo featuring domestic farm animals and native Illinois wildlife. Plus, found within the 54 beautiful parks throughout Wheaton, are a zip line at North Side Park and a climbing wall at our Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, for those who prefer to enjoy the outdoors for free,” Wilhelmi adds. Downtown Wheaton is what some would call an “urban suburban experience,” offering the charm and quaintness of a small town while home to more than 60,000 residents. “If you live downtown, your apartment door opens to a bustling street, reminiscent of city life,” says Barrington. “For the residents that surround the city center, it’s a quick walk down the street for a short fix of Wheaton. There are so many different lifestyles. ‘But for the tourists, this is just a great community to spend a leisurely day whether you are shopping, eating, or people watching,” she adds.
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 21
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One of this season’s grandest will be the August 9 performance at Cantigny Park of the Chicago Sinfonietta. In what park officials have dubbed the “biggest symphonic event in the history of Cantigny” the park welcomes the Chicago Sinfonietta for its first-ever outdoor appearance in the western suburbs. The Sinfonietta’s reputation is for being among the nation’s most fearless, creative programmers of symphonic experiences. The Chicago Tribune’s John von Rhein dubbed CS “the city’s hippest orchestra.” Cantigny patrons are in for a treat under the stars as Maestra Mei-Ann Chen and the Sinfonietta preview their 2014-15 season at this special performance.
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“The Chicago Sinfonietta is truly excited and honored to be the first professional orchestra to perform at Cantigny Park,” says Jim Hirsch, executive director. “This beautiful setting will provide the perfect complement for the repertoire we have selected and will surely make for a fun and memorable evening of music.”
Sinfonietta tickets are $22 in advance or $24 the day of performance. Cantigny members and Sinfonietta subscribers pay $20 in advance or $22 at the door. The general public and Cantigny members can purchase tickets online at Cantigny.org or call 630.260.8162. Sinfonietta subscribers should visit ChicagoSinfonietta.org. Tickets also are available at the park in the Cantigny Shop. Parking is complimentary for all ticket holders.
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Seating for the 8 p.m. concert is on the lawn outside the First Division Museum. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and maybe a picnic dinner and enjoy this Ravinia-style symphony concert.
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Save the date for the 2nd annual
Wheaton’s Wine & Cultural Arts Festival featuring over 70 fine wines, food, live music and fine art For ticket information and festival details go to
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HOME & LIFESTYLE
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 23
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BUILDING BOLINGBROOK Young city takes shape, place, amid suburban strongholds
By TOM WITOM
E
ver since its incorporation as a village in 1965, Bolingbrook has taken to heart its motto – “A place to grow” – as it changed the landscape from cornfields and dirt roads to a thriving metropolis where an estimated 75,000 now call home. Many more arrive each day to work, shop, worship or use its dining, entertainment, healthcare and recreational facilities. A key driver behind Bolingbrook’s dynamic growth has been Roger C. Claar, who has had 35 years’ involvement in local government, including the past 28 as mayor. Claar shepherded the arrival in 2006 of Promenade Mall with such major tenants as Macy’s, Costco and Bass Pro, and supported Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital, the first such facility to be built in Illinois in 25 years.
26 | AUGUST 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE
Everything that’s needed for a growing, successful community is planned or in place, the 68-year-old leader said in a phone interview.
not-for-profit fundraising events. Its banquet facility offers a ballroom that can accommodate 800 guests.
“We have resolved healthcare needs with our hospital and our retail needs with the Promenade as well as other power centers. Our recreational programs include an award-winning park district and golf club. And we were successful saving the public, non-commercial Clow Airport from turning into a subdivision,” Claar says.
Ron Oestreich, executive director of the park district, says Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park draws more than 200,000 visitors annually, primarily local residents. It has a 250,000-gallon zero depth pool, spray playground for younger children and five water slides. Plans for 2015 call for replacing the existing spray playground with one that’s “bigger and with more features.”
The 18-hole Bolingbrook Golf Club, village owned and managed by Kemper Sports, debuted in 2002 as a daily-fee facility created as an amenity for local residents. General manager Randy Farber says the highly rated club, which was conceived as part of a storm water management project, hosts more than 60 golf tournaments a year, including Bo Jackson Charity Golf Outing; Tom Dreesen Celebrity Invitational and numerous
HOME & LIFESTYLE
Mayor Claar says he is especially proud that during each of the last six years Bolingbrook has ranked as the only community other than Naperville in Money Magazine’s list of top 100 U.S. places in which to live. Besides having a strong retailing core, Bolingbrook is where many prominent
m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
uEVENTS OF NOTE Bolingbrook engages its citizenry by sponsoring many activities throughout the year. Among three upcoming events put on by the village and its park district (with support from Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital) are : • Weekly farmers’ market on interior streets at The Promenade on Thursdays from 4-9 p.m. through Sept. 18 Photos by Jason Adrian Photography
• A summer concert series at The Promenade on Thursdays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 14
manufacturers have established a presence, says Michael Carpanzano, executive director of the Bolingbrook Chamber of Commerce. The village is corporate headquarters for Ulta Corp., a salon and consumer beauty products supplier; ATI Physical Therapy Corp.; and G & W Electric, a global supplier of electric power equipment. MacNeil Automotive Products Ltd., manufacturer of the widely known WeatherTech car covers and floor mats, also is based here. Carpanzano also notes that Art Van Furniture, which recently opened a retail store in Woodridge, in 2013 chose Bolingbrook as the site for its Illinois distribution hub. Still, Bolingbrook did not escape unscathed from the latest recession. “Like most communities, we suffered with closings – for example, two Circuit Cities outlets shut down. Filling those slots has
m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
• A Wednesday night concert series at the Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center.
Additionally, Bolingbrook Jubilee, set for August 15-17 behind Town Center, features a carnival, craft show and classic car show.
been a challenge,” Claar said. Looking ahead, the mayor said some 2,000 acres of potential residential land remain. The challenge will be to make sure its development conforms to the standards already set. Population, he estimates, “will probably top out at 85,000 to 87,000.” In discussing what he’ll leave behind, Claar says he is most proud he has all the city’s utilities in place. “We have Lake Michigan water, a storm water system brought up to speed, minimal flooding problems during heavy rains; a sewage system designed to accommodate all the anticipated growth; and a road and transportation plan that’s up to speed – all the infrastructure needs that villages typically struggle with over the years we have done.”
HOME & LIFESTYLE
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 27
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Housing market mostly steady
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IN BOLINGBROOK By RYAN TERRELL
H
ome sales in Bolingbrook are steady with a slight uptick this May compared to 2013, according to data from the Mainstreet Organization of Realtors.
In May 2013, a total of 76 homes sold at a median sales price of $196,250 while 80 homes sold this past May. Median price hit $187, 500– down 4.5 percent over last year, the realtor organization says.
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“Inventory is down and with the low interest rates, people are taking advantage,” says Lukasik, with RE/MAX Professionals of Bolingbrook. “Rental prices are also increasing, and with the low rates it’s cheaper to purchase than it is to rent right now.”
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Another positive factor, he says, is what he called “boomerang buyers.” “They’re buyers who have gone through foreclosures and short sales when the crash hit, and now they’re able to purchase again,” Lukasik says.
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Still, as Bolingbrook realtor Ed Lukasik Jr. says, the market has come a long way since the crash of 2008-09. Lukasik says the buyer’s market is “fantastic” right now, while sellers are in need of a higher volume of buyers that would “drive multiple offers.”
Across the western suburbs, sales also declined in May compared to the same month in 2013 – by 4. 2 percent, according to the data – but median sale prices rose 3.5 percent from $241,500 to $250,000. Lukasik says he is “very positive” in regard to the real estate outlook through the summer and beyond. “As long as interest rates stay low,” he says. “One concern is the unemployment numbers. You can’t have a true recovery until you have an improved job climate. That’s going to be one of the driving factors in the next year or two.” m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
Fun Summer Events The Nut Job FREE! Aug. 15, dusk,
Redmond Park
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Aug. 2, 8am, Pines Park
1 bag per person, while supplies last.
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For more fun events & information call or visit the Deer Grove Leisure Center or
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MAY 2013: 71 home sales at a median price of $335,000
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Sept. 6, 10am-4pm & Sept. 7, 11am-3pm
Fine arts, books & crafts Musical performances Balloon artists & face painting Fun for the whole family
MAY 2014: 55 home sales (-22.5 percent) at a median price of $349,900 (+4.5 percent)
NAPERVILLE MAY 2013: 169 home sales at a median price of $406,000 MAY 2014: 159 home sales (-5.9 percent) at a median price of $385,000 (-5.2 percent)
LISLE MAY 2013: 27 home sales at a median price of $350,000
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MAY 2014: 26 home sales (-3.7 percent) at a median price of $310,000 (-11.4 percent)
WOODRIDGE MAY 2013: 30 home sales at a median price of $241,000 MAY 2014: 22 home sales (-26.7 percent) at a median price of $252,500 (+4.8 percent)
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5135 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515 | 630-963-8800 HOME & LIFESTYLE
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 29
P ro f e s s i o n a l P R O F I L E Valerie Janke, CFP®, Financial Advisor It’s a precarious economic time for a lot of people. The economy is rebounding, certainly, but it’s not yet much of a comfort to everyday families and small business owners. Worries like mounting medical bills, impending college costs and a loss in value of the family home all weigh on the mind and keep us up at night. If you are facing an illness, the passing of a spouse, or even a divorce, the challenges can seem overwhelming. Enter Valerie Janke, financial advisor with Waddell & Reed in Naperville. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, Valerie helps people who are facing life’s trials. She offers comprehensive financial planning, risk management, asset allocation strategies and a compassionate spirit to her clients, helping to get them on a path to financial success. A veteran of the financial industry from sales to supervision, Valerie has been working with clients since the late 1990’s, continually helping them face the financial demands of each stage of their lives with confidence and vision. A life-long learner herself, Valerie stays up-to-date on industry changes, new financial products, tax ramifications and investment options. She offers clients an upfront assessment of their own monetary picture, and helps them come to realistic, achievable goals for their financial future. Visit her online at www.valeriejanke.wrfa.com to learn more about her, and discover a host of helpful articles, financial calculators and e-seminars to assist you in better understanding your own financial picture. adno=S0241391
Valerie Janke, CFP®, Financial Advisor 1100 E. Warrenville, Suite 100 • Naperville, Illinois 60563 (630) 245-1156 • vjanke@wradvisors.com Waddell & Reed, Inc. Member SIPC (11/13)
Photos provided
HOME and Hearth
with Jen Crockett
A
re you looking to add space to your home to increase its value, appeal and functionality? A basement remodel adds endless possibilities to increase living space to your home. It’s the perfect solution for homeowners who need more living space but feel a room addition is not an option for them. From family rooms, workout centers and additional bedrooms, families are putting the basement to the test. A once dingy and dark storage area, your basement can be designed to become the go to space for your family
to have movie night, get in a quick workout, or a new play space for the kids to hang out and enjoy. Many homeowners choose to add bars, fireplaces and saunas to increase the enjoyment of this new living space. There are many products on the market today that make this once underutilized space a dream makeover. There are a few things to keep in mind when you decide to finish or remodel your basement. First you want to make sure it is dry. If not make sure to take necessary steps to fix cracks
in the foundation or any problem areas you may have. Secondly, have in mind the kind of space you want to create and make sure it is feasible. There may be some things you would like to add, but space may not give you the option. It’s key to make sure the footprint of your basement can accommodate your design plans. Whether you are in need of more bedrooms or just some additional living space, look below to your basement and create the ultimate space of your dreams!
uCrockett Construction Inc., is a full service contractor specializing in both residential home improvement and light commercial new construction and remodeling. Whether it’s the perfect addition to an existing home, or adding warehouse space to your growing business, Crockett Construction Inc. has the expertise, processes, and professional management approach to turn your plans into reality, on time, and on budget. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
HOME & LIFESTYLE
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 31
‘So long’ to the
table for one Dating and dining converge at dining clubs By YVONNE BENSON
D
ining and dating seem like a perfect match for generating new relationships and good times. Many people are either “single-lookingto-mingle” or know someone who needs a social kick in the pants to get them into a meaningful and gratifying relationship. If you enjoy a good meal, and would like to engage your foodie side with new friends, a singles’dining club might be right for you. SingleSync is an organization that hosts weekly dinner parties and dinner dances called Gourmet Connections. Jim Senhauser (who goes by “Senny”) is the president and host for events. “Hosting dining events is a great way to ‘break the ice’ in what sometimes can feel like an awkward situation for singles and the newlysingle (through divorce or the death of a spouse) as they get back into the adult dating world,” Senny says. “It is a comfortable approach to meeting and getting to know other singles over time who are in the same situation as you on a ‘friends-first’ basis. It is more natural than contrived party games, timed ‘mini-dates’ or fix-ups.” And while the group atmosphere can spell relief for many who may feel the pressure of the
one-to-one blind date, Senny says that many first-timers remain nervous. “One thing that I have found is that many singles are apprehensive the first time that they come to one of our parties. Their biggest fear is that nobody will talk to them. Often they bring a friend for support,” he explains. “What they don’t realize is that everybody has been in the same situation they are now. As a result, everybody is very friendly and outgoing and conversation flows freely. For any of our parties, over 90 percent of the people attending arrive by themselves.” Senny went on to say the Gourmet Connections offers a “relational approach to meeting and dating.” “Participants can expect to meet a lot of nice single people, who are friendly, outgoing and most of whom are interested in dating and developing relationships,” he says. “Ours is a not a transactional approach like the Internet. At every party, about a third of the participants are regular attendees for the area in which the party is being held, about a third are occasional attendees, and the other third are new attendees, Senny explains.
“This is our twelfth year in business, and we have generated numerous of marriages, relationships and lasting friendships,” Senny says. “My lawyer was one of the participants who met his wife at one of our events.” Participants can choose to have a SingleSync membership or pay for each event separately. “We have several levels of membership, with the most popular being free.” Senny explains, “Most events run between $30 and $40, including a full meal. Some are as little at $3-$15.” Furthermore, the parties are all over the Chicago area, making it easy for anyone to join. Twothirds of the parties are in Chicago’s suburbs and one-third in the city. “We host events as far north as Palatine and Highland Park and as far south as around I-55. We go from the city to as far west as Route 59 in
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Naperville and South Barrington,” he says. “People come from all areas to our events. We have some who come from Milwaukee, Crystal Lake, Gurnee, Tinley Park and Frankfurt to our more central parties.” When asked for a good candidate for a Gourmet Connection, Senny says guests should be between 30 and 65 years old and “somebody who is open to meeting new singles of the opposite gender, the possibility of dating and developing relationships of all types.” Most importantly, he notes, “they should like to eat, talk, possibly drink and dance, and most of all, to be open to having a great time.”
You can see listed events at www.SingleSync.com or www. GourmetConnections.com. adno=0282649
DINING & ENTERTAINING
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 33
CAGO CHI t. Halsted S Ave. Western Cicero LaVergne Berwyn ve. Harlem A Riverside op) d (Zoo St Hollywoo ld Brookfie Park Congress e Rd. La Grang ge ./La Gran Stone Ave Springs Western s Highland Hinsdale dale West Hins Hills Claredon t Westmon Ave. Fairview Main St./ Grove Downers Belmont Lisle e Napervill Route 59 ORA AUR
Vicki Martinka Petersen enjoys taking long train rides through the western suburbs to her job as a media relations specialist for a health care association in Chicago. She believes Chicago isn’t the only fun destination along the train line and is sharing what the suburban train stops have to offer.
Ticket to Ride
By VICKI MARTINKA PETERSEN
Al fresco fun! After the endless days of snowfall and artic chill we embraced last winter I plan to savor every second outdoors that I can before summer season begins to wind down, including dining al fresco. Whether you’re looking for a date night venue or a night out with the girls, good food and drinks on a warm summer night await when you get off the train. FIRST STOP – The Cellar Door in Downers Grove (south of tracks, 5150 Main St., www. hinsdalecellars.com). This bistro/ wine shop features a brick patio outside the main entrance, the perfect place to people watch or to check out the classic cars that line downtown Downers Grove on Friday nights through the end of the month. The menu ranges from small plates to pizza. I’ve enjoyed many gourmet cheese and charcuterie flights with a glass of wine here. Bocadillo (open-faced sandwiches with serrano ham, manchego cheese and tomato and garlic essence on toasted crostini), bruschetta and smoke salmon crostini offer small bites that you can share with the table. Or if you’re looking for more of a meal, the menu boasts a variety of paninis, sandwiches and lettuce wraps. SECOND STOP – Yerbabuena in Lisle (north of tracks, 4732 Main St., www.yerbabuenacuisine. com). A white picket fence surrounds the patio in front of this Mexican restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner in downtown Lisle. Many of the menu selections are recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. On a recent visit I tried the tacos al pastor pineapple
suizo – marinated pork topped with pineapple, grilled onions, cilantro, fresh onions, lime, melted cheese and tomato chipotle salsa. My husband enjoyed the tacos pollo asado naranja chipotle – grilled chicken topped with orange chipotle salsa, pico de gallo and avocado. The libations on tap include tequila tasting with three selections, buckets of beers and seven types of margaritas. LAST STOP – The Wise Boxer Pour House in Naperville (south of tracks, 16 W. Jefferson Ave., www.thewiseboxerpourhouse. com). After a short walk from the train, you only have to climb another 46 steps to the third floor patio at this pub and grill in downtown Naperville. Strands of white lights intertwine on the trellis above the seating area. There is also an enclosed seating area and bar that spills into the patio when the wall of doors is open. Wise Boxer offers a wide variety of food from burgers and flatbreads to pasta and seafood dishes. When pursuing the menu, the boxed items are house recommended dishes, like the Wise Man’s CBLT – Parmesan encrusted Texas toast with cheddar, Swiss and American cheese, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce and tomato. Wise Boxer also offers a large craft beer selection, bourbons, whiskey, scotch, wine and mixology cocktails. When crisp autumn air finally does arrive, there are plenty of TVs on all three floors to catch the game.
C
ABERNET.. company
Summer Time Wines Believe it or not, wine consumption generally goes down during the hot summer months in Chicago. Sure, there are many parties and get-togethers and you would think that this would equate to increased wine consumption. But au contraire mes amis. If you really think about it, it’s a lot of beer (hopefully, good ones) and mixed drinks like gin & tonics during the summer months. But we’re out to change that. There are all sorts of great summer wines---Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Beaujolais, Rosé just to name a few--but there are also great wine “mixed drinks.” Here are a few to consider:
THE OBVIOUS ONE: WINE SPRITZER CABERNET AND COMPANY
with Alixe Lischett
Alixe Lischett is owner of Cabernet and Company in Glen Ellyn. She offers her 20 years of expertise in the wine industry to the DuPage County community.
Back in the 1970s (for those of us old enough to remember) the wine spritzer was huge! It’s simple. Fill a wine glass about ⅓ full with wine. Add ice. Top it off with club soda or seltzer. Finish with a lemon twist. It’s light, airy and very refreshing. Goes down very quickly on a hot day, but no worries…spritzers have the added benefit of half the calories and half the alcohol of a full glass of wine. (A twist on the regular wine spritzer is to make it with White Port instead of red or white wine. The port is a bit higher in alcohol and nuttier in flavor. Really nice aperitif.)
ANOTHER OBVIOUS ONE: SANGRIA
Sangria originated in Spain. Typically, it was a blend of local wine (red, white or rosé), a sweetener like sugar or lemon-lime soda, chopped fruit (whatever’s in season, but usually apples and peaches), and brandy. There’s no right or wrong about how you make sangria. It’s just what you like. Search the Internet to find lots of sangria recipes. Like it lighter? Use less brandy. Like it sweeter? Add some honey or sugar. Like it less sweet? Use club soda or seltzer instead of a sweet soda. Like it fruitier? Add some orange juice.
MORE ELEGANT: BELLINI
The Bellini harkens back to mid-20th century, a creation of Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice. Legend has it that its pinkish color reminded Cipriani of a painting by Giovanni Bellini, and he ran with the name. Made from fresh peaches it was only available in late summer. The recipe
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DINING & ENTERTAINING
has been tweaked to allow the use of peach nectar when fresh peaches aren’t available. Traditionally it’s made from a puree of white peaches mixed with Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine from the region.)
MY PERSONAL FAVORITE: SGROPPINO
Like the Bellini, this drink originated in Italy. Again, there are many variations of this drink online, but the basics are Prosecco (or any sparkling wine), vodka and lemon sorbet. To make four cocktails, the approximate quantities are: 4 oz. Prosecco, 1 oz. vodka, and 16 oz. lemon sorbet. Mix them together by hand or whip them in a blender. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a twist of lemon. Other fun options: • WINE IN A CAN BY UNION WINE COMPANY IN OREGON. Perfect for on-the-boat or by-thepool, this Can O’ Wine comes in two varietals: Underwood Pinot Gris or Pinot Noir. Each 12.5 oz. can is equivalent to ½ bottle of wine. • TESS (by Peju Province Winery in Napa) is a blend of slightly off-dry red and white wine in the same bottle. Chill it slightly and it’s perfect for sipping on the patio. • INNOCENT BYSTANDER PINK MOSCATO from Australia is sweet, citrusy and slightly effervescent. Sealed with a beer cap. It’s just fun. Chill it. Pour it over ice. Add some fruit. Any and all of that. It’s delicious. Whatever you choose, remember summer isn’t just about beer and mixed drinks. There are an awful lot of good wine options out there.
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 35
10 things to know about childhood immunizations
From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1. WHY YOUR CHILD SHOULD BE VACCINATED Immunizations protect children from dangerous childhood diseases. Any of these diseases can cause serious complications and can even kill. 2. DISEASES THAT CHILDHOOD VACCINES PREVENT • Diphtheria • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib disease - a major cause of bacterial meningitis) • Hepatitis A • Hepatitis B • Human Papillomavirus (HPV - a major ause of cervical and other cancers) • Influenza • Measles • Meningococcal • Mumps • Pertussis (Whooping Cough) • Pneumococcal (causes bacterial meningitis and blood infections) • Polio • Rotavirus • Rubella (German Measles) • Tetanus (Lockjaw) • Varicella (Chickenpox)
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3. NUMBER OF DOSES YOUR CHILD NEEDS The following vaccinations are recommended by age two and can be given over five visits to a doctor or clinic: • 4 doses of diphtheria, tetanus & pertussis vaccine (DTaP) • 3-4 doses of Hib vaccine (depending on the brand used) • 4 doses of pneumococcal vaccine • 3 doses of polio vaccine • 2 doses of hepatitis A vaccine • 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine • 1 dose of measles, mumps & rubella vaccine (MMR) • 2-3 doses of rotavirus vaccine (depending on the brand used) • 1 dose of varicella vaccine • 1 or 2 annual doses of influenza vaccine (number of doses depends on influenza vaccine history) 4. LIKE ANY MEDICINE, VACCINES CAN CAUSE MINOR SIDE EFFECTS. Side effects can occur with any medicine, including vaccines. Depending on the vaccine, these can include: slight fever, rash, or soreness at the site of injection. Slight discomfort is normal and should not be a cause for alarm. Your health care provider can give you additional information. HEALTH & WELLNESS
5. IT’S EXTREMELY RARE, BUT VACCINES CAN CAUSE SERIOUS REACTIONS – WEIGH THE RISKS! Serious reactions to vaccines are extremely rare. The risk of serious complications from a disease that could have been prevented by vaccination is far greater than the risk of a serious reaction to a vaccine. 6. WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD HAS A SERIOUS REACTION If you think your child is experiencing a persistent or severe reaction, call your doctor or get the child to a doctor right away. Write down what happened and the date and time it happened. Ask your doctor, nurse or health department to file a VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System) report or go to VAERS web site to file this form yourself electronically. 7. WHY YOU SHOULD NOT WAIT TO VACCINATE Children under 5 are especially susceptible to disease because their immune systems have not built up the necessary defenses to fight infection. By immunizing on time (by age 2), you can protect your child from disease and also protect others at school or daycare.
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An Early Screening and Anti-Aging Clinic 412 W. 63RD ST. SUITE #105 • DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60516 (630) 442-7475 • www.integrativehealthcareoptions.com 8. TRACK YOUR SHOTS VIA A HEALTH RECORD A vaccination health record helps you and your health care provider keep your child’s vaccinations on schedule. If you move or change providers, having an accurate record might prevent your child from having to repeat vaccinations he or she has already had. A shot record should be started when your child receives his/her first vaccination and updated with each vaccination visit. 9. SOME CHILDREN ARE ELIGIBLE FOR FREE VACCINATIONS A federal program called Vaccines for Children provides free vaccines to eligible children, including those without health insurance coverage, those enrolled in Medicaid, American Indians and Alaskan Natives and those whose health insurance does not cover vaccines. 10. MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE General immunization questions can be answered by The CDC Contact Center at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) English and Español Contact CDC-INFO Questions about vaccines and vaccinepreventable diseases frequently asked by people calling the TTY Service Hotline at 1-888-232-6348 (TTY hotline)
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Learn how to eat for better health and ďŹ tness! Sign up today for our 13 week nutritional program. Taught by a health coach, our In.Form classes include health education, a personalized program, and social support. Classes start in September. Call for more details.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
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PROBIOTICS may be the next big thing in acne treatment
In recent years, probiotics have become synonymous with helping maintain good digestive health. Now, emerging research is finding that the benefits of probiotics may extend beyond the digestive tract to the skin. In fact, according to experts at the American Academy of Dermatology, skin prone to acne or rosacea has shown improvement with daily probiotic use, giving dermatologists reason to consider supplementing traditional acne therapy with a dose of this beneficial bacteria. THE SCIENCE BEHIND PROBIOTICS EFFECT ON THE SKIN Most bacterial cells that live inside and on the body are harmless, and studies show that, in fact, they can be extremely beneficial to the body’s normal functioning. Whitney P. Bowe, MD, FAAD, notes that while the science of how probiotics can work to interfere with the development of acne and rosacea is very complex, researchers are studying how this type of healthy bacteria applied topically to the skin or taken orally can benefit these skin conditions. TOPICALLY APPLIED PROBIOTICS Currently, some manufacturers have started using probiotics in their products based on this early research – including probiotic masks, creams or cleansers. There are different ways that topical probiotics can benefit the skin: PROTECTIVE SHIELD Probiotics applied topically sit on the skin’s surface and act as a protective shield, and interfere with the ability of bad bugs (or bacteria and parasites) to provoke an immune reaction. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e
ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES Sometimes the substances produced by probiotics have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can create holes in bad bacteria and kill them, Bowe says. Similar to the way antibiotics work in the treatment of acne and rosacea, probiotics can help fight harmful bugs from triggering inflammation. CALMING EFFECT When certain types of probiotics are placed in contact with skin cells, they calm the parts of the cells that may want to react to the presence of bad bacteria that they see as a threat. These healthy signals produced by the probiotics stop the skin cells from sending “attack” messages to the immune system that result in flares of acne or rosacea. Bowe also reports that some of her patients are experimenting with probiotics by applying homemade Greek yogurt masks to their skin to control breakouts or flares. There is currently no research or studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of this home remedy. ORAL PROBIOTICS Oral probiotics – sold as daily supplements containing Lactobacilli and/or Bifidobacterium, or in yogurts containing live cultures – could influence skin conditions such as acne and rosacea by affecting what is known as the “gut-brain-skin axis.” According to Bowe, stress, often in combination with processed comfort foods that lack fiber, can slow digestion. This, in turn, changes the type and number of bacteria that live in the gut to unhealthy bacteria. HEALTH & WELLNESS
Eventually, the gut lining becomes leaky and toxins are released into the bloodstream causing inflammation throughout the body. People who are predisposed to acne or rosacea can experience flares as a result of this shift in gut bacteria and subsequent inflammation. To counteract flares of acne or rosacea associated with the “gut-brain-skin axis,” Bowe advises patients to find ways to help manage or cope with stress, fix their diet or introduce healthy bacteria to the gut in the form of probiotics. The probiotics will line the gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier that prevents inflammation that can trigger acne or rosacea. “While more studies are needed to identify the most beneficial aspects of probiotics and determine whether topical or oral probotics yield the best results, I think we can expect to see some cutting-edge probiotic products for acne and rosacea in the near future,” Bowe says. “Until then, I would recommend that patients with acne or rosacea see their dermatologist to talk about adding foods with live active cultures, such as yogurt, to their diets or taking an oral probiotic supplement daily.”
SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2014 | 39
artist
showcase INNA DERIY | Naperville “STILL MELTING” LIQUID MOSAIC
At first glance they look like stained glass, even some sort of mosaic. But in fact they’re something rather different. Inna Deriy moved to the USA from the South Western part of Russian Serbia in 2004. Having been born into a family of geologists, where nature’s minerals were her greatest inspiration, it was no surprise that her love of both art and nature combined.
Moving away from traditional painting techniques, she developed a new technique of her own-- painting with pigmented polymers. The transparent liquid polymers are combined with natural pigments like cobalt, copper, silver, indigo, or fine powders and cures when it is spread to desired shapes. The polymers are spread along a surface using simple tools like sticks, needles, and even spatulas. After 20-30 hours, and any additional layer changes, the polymers solidify resembling these lovely,
To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to SuburbanLifeMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”
RUSH HOUR René Magritte. Time Transxed (La Duree poignardee) (detail), 1938. The Art Institute of Chicago, Joseph Winterbotham Collection. © Charly Herscovici – ADAGP – ARS, 2014.
THE MYSTERY OF THE ORDINARY JUNE 24 - OCTOBER 13 2014
warm, earthy collages. This image depicted is called Melting tree This technique is revolutionary in the field of art. It’s ability to adhere to all kinds of surfaces from glass to brick, it’s ability to withstand water, heat, even UV rays, not to mention it’s flexibility, make it a technique with a vast range of possibilities.
#unthink
National Sponsor:
Visit www.liquidmosaic.com to contact Inna or see more of her collection.
Funding is generously provided by Helen and Sam Zell and the Auxiliary Board of the Art Institute, the Lead Affiliate Sponsor. Additional support is provided by Sylvia Neil and Daniel Fischel and the Prince Charitable Trusts. Annual support for exhibitions is provided by the Exhibitions Trust: Goldman Sachs, Kenneth and Anne Griffin, Thomas and Margot Pritzker, the Earl and Brenda Shapiro Foundation, and the Woman’s Board of the Art Institute. This exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.
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OUT & ABOUT
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AUGUST EVENTS In The Suburbs AUGUST 1 THOUGH AUGUST 2 - SUMMER DAZE Friday and Saturday at Warrenville City Hall 28W701 Stafford Place , Warrenville Summer Daze is Warrenville’s summer music festival and car show. The event boasts children’s rides, a craft show and bazaar, bands and local talent, karaoke, and delicious food and drink from local establishments. Most notably, however, the event features unique cars, motorcycles, and boats. AUGUST 2 - DOG DAYS AT CANTIGNY PARK Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton For one day only, dog lovers can enjoy a fun day at the park with their “best friends.” Bring your dog out and enjoy a special dog play area, vendors from the dog world and some specially trained pooches to entertain. All dogs must have current vaccination tags and be social with others. There will be agility demonstrations, Windy City K9 Disc Club featuring their World Champion High Flying Disc Dogs, 70+ vendor booths, dog rescue organizations, The Bark Park (pet play area), and more. AUGUST 2 - WHEATON BREW FEST Saturday at Memorial Park 208 West Union Avenue Wheaton Wheaton Brew Fest features a wide variety of local and national beers and great entertainment with the opportunity to sample each beer and determine a favorite! AUGUST 2 - PIRATE DAY Saturday: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Flow Rider at the GH2O Aquatic Center 240 Civic Center Plaza Glendale Heights Eye patches at the door for everyone (as long as the supplies last)! Get your tattoos and walk the plank at the Aquatic Center for this revived event! Make your own ship at the pool and see if it floats. Go on a treasure hunt for great prizes and float around on your pirate vessel. AUGUST 5 - OAKBROOK TERRACE PARK DISTRICT MOVIES IN THE PARK Tuesday at Heritage Park 1S325 Ardmore Avenue Villa Park Oakbrook Terrace Park District invites all families and area residents to enjoy an evening at Heritage Park watching free movies on the 13x17 foot big screen. Despicable Me 2 (rated PG) will be shown beginning at 8:45 p.m. Concessions will be available. Be sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. In case of inclement weather, the movie will be shown indoors at the Mario Parent Theater. No pre-registration is necessary, just show up for an evening of fun! AUGUST 8 THOUGH AUGUST 9 - DRIVE-IN NIGHTS AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM Friday and Saturday at The Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle Relax and watch a nostalgic family movie under the stars during the Arboretum’s first-ever drive-in movie series, complete with favorite theater-style concessions available for purchase. August will feature two musical favorites. Showing on Friday, August 8, “Newsies” tells the story of a turn-of-the century newspaper boy strike. On Saturday, August 9, audiences will be treated to the Gene Kelly classic about Hollywood’s transition from silent films to #talkies# with “Singin’ in the Rain.” Available in limited quantities, tickets are on sale now. $30 AUGUST 10 - FAMILY KITE FESTIVAL Sunday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Berens Park 493 Oaklawn Avenue Elmhurst The skies will be alive with kites as Elmhurst welcomes some of the midwest’s best professional kite flyers.
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The day will consist of stunt, trick, and show kite demonstrations, a family fun fly, candy drop and free kite building for children. Bring your kites to fly during open fly times! Chicago Kite will be on site for all your kite needs. AUGUST 9 THROUGH AUGUST 10 - ZOO BREW Saturday at Brookfield Zoo 1st Avenue and 31st Street Brookfield Enjoy bears and beers, lions and lagers, aardvarks and ales# all at Brookfield Zoo#s third annual Zoo Brew! Zoo Brew is a one-of-a-kind, 21 and over, unique beer-tasting event featuring over 60 beers. Enjoy live music, bid on silent auction items including branded beer tenders, specialty brews and more! Ticket prices include free admission to the zoo (all day), and admission to Zoo Brew. Zoo Brew attendees will also receive two ounce samples from over 60+ craft beers, a commemorative beer tasting glass, and more. AUGUST 12, 2014 - SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK Tuesday: 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Addison Village Green Gazebo 1 Friendship Plaza Addison Join the Addison Center for the Arts for our summer concert series! Relax while Revelation Brass Band plays classical and other tunes at the Addison Village Green in the Gazebo. AUGUST 16 - ZOO DAY Saturday: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Flow Rider at the GH2O Aquatic Center 240 Civic Center Plaza Glendale Heights The Aquatic Center will be transformed into a Zoo and our lifeguards will become the zookeepers. Bring your inflatable animals and join us for games and tons of fun.
AUGUST 20 - CONCERTS ON THE COMMONS: THE NEW INVADERS Wednesday: 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Warrenville Public Library District 28W751 Stafford Place Warrenville A magical musical journey back to a groovy time. Music from the era of the British Invasion, including a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Beatles coming to America. Free outdoor concerts will be held every Wednesday evening in June, July and August. Picnics are welcome, but alcohol is not permitted. The concerts are sponsored in part by the City of Warrenville Hotel Motel Tax Fund. AUGUST 23 – PARKPALOOZA Saturday: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Berens Park 493 Oaklawn Avenue Elmhurst Enjoy a free concert in the park, along with fun kids’ activities, food, beer garden. AUGUST 27 - CONCERTS ON THE COMMONS: BBI Wednesday 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Warrenville Public Library District 28W751 Stafford Place Warrenville From Motown to Rock and Roll, Blues to Classic Rock, this band brings their wide-ranging repertoire back to Warrenville to help us say farewell to summer. Picnics are welcome, but alcohol is not permitted. The concerts are sponsored in part by the City of Warrenville Hotel Motel Tax Fund.
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Bolingbrook Farmer’s Market
Everyy Thursday from 4-9pm Ever @ the Bolingbrook Promenade Near the Village Green Through Thursday, Sept 18
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OUT & ABOUT
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Trusted Service Old World Quality
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