Suburban Life MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2017
PEOPLE WITH
PASSION
Knitting devotee spins hobby into business page 12
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Radiologist goes wild for zoo animals page 7
History buff finds calling on 1800s farm
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Editor’s Note
We the people. It’s a strong lead to one of the most affective pieces of writing in American history. It speaks of common interest, shared purpose and the power of union. Essentially it speaks of community. From the Suburban Life newsroom, we report on community every day – our school events, our city council meetings, our local businesses – and this past month, we celebrated community, and the people who make ours special. The Everyday Heroes Breakfast, held on Oct. 26, honored those people who embody the spirit of our hometowns. These are the people who work to better them, keep them safe, make them more enjoyable. They are our neighbors and our friends. Their extra efforts keep us humble and make us proud of where we live. So we salute them: Larry Forssberg, Joe Kish, Tom Nybo, Kristen Funk, Anne Aalbue, Marilyn Himmel, Steve Nero, Kathleen Franzwa and Amanda Grant. We offer them our congratulations of course. But mostly, we offer our heartfelt appreciation. This month in Suburban Life Magazine, we continue the celebration that our colleagues began in October, dedicating this issue to the
people in our communities. We’ll introduce you to a local historian who teaches kids (and adults) what life was like in the 1800s, building appreciation and understanding for how far our world has come. You’ll find out about the efforts of two local teenagers, who built a charitable local initiative around a sport they love. You’ll meet a dedicated veterinary radiologist, who works diagnostically, to keep the animals at Brookfield Zoo healthy and happy. And we will inspire you with stories of entrepreneurs who followed their dreams, and now share their passions with the public, each and every day. So we invite you to sit back and read through the pages of Suburban Life Magazine. Get to know your neighbors, spark your own inspiration, and perhaps make a new connection in your community. for reading —
Sherri Dauskurdas Editor
on the COVER Janet Avila, owner of String Theory Yarn Shop, turned the therapeutic hobby of knitting into a business, and created a community gathering place. Page 12. Photos by RON McKINNEY Hair and makeup by MARIO
TRICOCI SALON AND DAY SPAS, OAK BROOK Hair: KELLEY
Suburban Life Suburban Life Magazine Published by Shaw Media 1101 W. 31st Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 Phone: 630-368-1100 suburbanlifemagazine@shawmedia.com
Director of Niche Publishing Laura Shaw lshaw@shawmedia.com Advertising Bill Korbel 630-427-6230 bkorbel@shawmedia.com Editorial Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com Kelli Murray kmurray@shawmedia.com Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Correspondents Allison Horne, Elizabeth Harmon, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Shonda Dudlicek, Diane Krieger Spivak, Aimee Barrows and Kelsey O’Connor Photographers Ron McKinney, Aldo Risolvo
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.
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PORTRAITS
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INSIDE PEOPLE 8 CALL OF THE WILD Radiologist offers care to exotic and endangered animals. 10 NO ORDINARY DAYS Local historian uses living history to share 1890s lifestyle. 12 CLOSE KNIT COMMUNITY String Theory Yarn Company brings artisans, hobbyists together.
DINING & ENTERTAINING 14 FROM CRAIGSLIST TO COFFEE HOUSE Brewpoint Coffee an Elmhurst gem. 16 BE THANKFUL Our wine experts share great pairings for the holidays, with a helping hand to California in every recommendation.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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FROM CRAIGSLIST TO COFFEE HOUSE Brewpoint Coffee an Elmhurst gem.
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18 A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER Gluten free diets bring relief from digestive disorders.
FASHION & BEAUTY 20 HOT FALL ACCESSORIES Our retail expert weighs in on some of the best fashion items to complement your wardrobe this season.
BUSINESS & CIVIC 22 12-LOVE Teens turn to tennis to tackle community need. 25 FUR-ROCIOUS FASHION York Furrier pairs style with tradition at third-generation family business.
OUT & ABOUT 26 DECK THOSE HALLS Holiday house walks offer inspiration, ideas for decorating. 28 ARTIST SHOWCASE Glen Ellyn artist Kasia Szczesniewski shares her piece, “Windy Fantasy.”
FAMILY IN FOCUS 30 WHAT’S FOR DINNER? Our veterinary expert shares some myths about what makes pet food good or bad.
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CALL OF THE Radiologist offers care to exotic and endangered animals | By KELSEY O’CONNOR As a veterinarian, giving an X-ray to a cat or dog is a fairly standard procedure. But taking scans of a dolphin, a tiger or an elephant is a completely different story. The procedure is different, and so is reading the resulting images. At Brookfield zoo, Dr. Marina Ivancic is able to use those scans to help diagnosis and treat the array of wildlife in the zoo’s care. Ivancic is trained in interpreting the results of imaging machines, such as CT scans and ultrasounds, for exotic and aquatic animals. She started working at the zoo in 2015, making her the first and only full-time board-certified veterinary radiologist at any zoo in the world. Photos courtesy the Chicago Zoological Society mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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“The thought of doing something that hasn’t been done before is always appealing,” says Ivancic about her position. “We’re pushing the boundaries of zoo medicine.” Diagnostic imaging is a crucial part of caring for zoo animals because it allows staff to better identify and treat any health issues. “All of our patients can’t tell us what’s wrong,” says Dr. Mike Adkesson, vice president of clinical medicine at the zoo. “A lot of times we don’t have a whole lot to work off of. Imaging is really one of the first places that we start anytime an animal is having a problem.” Ivancic attended four years of veterinary school at the University of California, Davis and then went on to radiology school. “The more I got involved in it the more I loved it,” she says of her field of study. “There’s math, physics, anatomy, visual art, it’s a wonderful combination of all those things.” There are only about 500 board-certified veterinary radiologists in the country, but they are instrumental to the care of wildlife at zoo everywhere. “I think veterinary radiologists play an important role in animal health and I’m very proud of that,” says Ivancic. “I’m ridiculously attached to every animal and I feel like I have a positive impact on their quality of life and their care.” Ivancic earned her board certification with the American College of Veterinary Radiology. 8 | NOVEMBER 2017 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE
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She spent her early career specializing in the care and imaging of marine mammals and consulting at zoos around the country. In her role at Brookfield Zoo, this specialized training and experience helps her catch hard-to-see clues about the animals’ conditions. “Other veterinarians can look at those images, but veterinary radiologists have a different level of training to look at them and recommend treatment,” says Dr. Ivancic. “My job is to take a challenging case and see things that other people can’t see.” With Ivancic on board, Brookfield Zoo has been able to set a new standard in the quality of their diagnostic imaging. “Marina’s ability, training and background are just incredible,” says Adkesson. “We’re able to make earlier diagnoses and make more clear diagnostic answers to questions. This finer level of detail allows us to really do some absolutely incredible things with the equipment and her expertise.” Adkesson has played a crucial part in the evolution of the zoo’s radiology program, including the investment in a full-time radiologist. The zoo is one of the few in the country to have its own CT scanner, but Adkesson recognized the opportunity to raise the standard of care to a new level by adding a specialist to the team. “We’ve been very fortunate to have some
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“I’m ridiculously attached to every animal and I feel like I have a positive impact on their quality of life and their care. Dr. Marina Ivancic, board-certified veterinary radiologist
Horse and carriage rides, visits with Santa, roasted chestnuts and the aroma of warm cider; these are the things that make the Christmas season so special in Downtown Wheaton.
rate the season with us! Come celeb Living Wheaton Christmas Festivall
December 2nd 7:30am -9pm The Reindeer Run, holiday treats, caroling, and family activities throughout the day
Santa visits and complimentary horse and carriage rides
great equipment donated that’s pushed our medical care forward in terms of the imaging we’re able to do here at the zoo,” he says. “As we become more advanced in imaging technology, we really need human expertise to go along with that.”
‘A Gift to Remember’ Wheaton Christmas Art Walk
Ivancic passes along that expertise to the rest of the animal care staff, helping them better understand how to analyze images and use them to diagnosis and treat the creatures in their care. She also helps interpret images for other zoos, which helps animals around the world receive better quality care.
December 16th 10am Wheaton Public Library
December 12-24th 12 fine art pieces displayed in selected shops that tell the Biblical story of Christmas
Holiday Gingerbread House Contest
Each Saturday 12pm to 3pm Nov. 25-Dec. 23rd at Martin Memorial Plaza on Front Street.
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“One of the things we’re proud of is the high quality of care we can provide for our animals,” says Adkesson. “Not only does it bolster the quality of medical care here at Brookfield Zoo, but we also can provide positive benefit for animals at other zoos as well. It’s an advancement in the quality of care for animals in zoos around for the world.”
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PEOPLE
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Local historian uses living history to share 1890s lifestyle
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| By SHONDA DUDLICEK ennis Buck liked to write. He didn’t want to teach or go to law school. His mother reminded him of all the car trips their family took, camping and stopping at every museum on the road. It was something he really enjoyed.
“Our main activity was going to museums and historical sites. That’s how you learn about where you are,” he says. “It was what they call a light-bulb moment.” So once at college, he majored in history. He went on to earn a graduate degree in museum studies. Now what? Buck says he always had his eye on Kline Creek Farm, an 1890s living history farm in West Chicago. Today, he’s a heritage interpreter, and has been at Kline Creek for seven years. “There are all kinds of people here with expertise in natural history and any number of topics of interest that I can incorporate into my work,” says Buck. “A really big team makes for lots of opportunity. No person can be an expert at everything.” His role focuses on domestic farm life in the 1890s. As part of his duties as heritage interpreter, Buck does a lot of the programming and events for school programs. A Fall Day at the Farm brings in 300 kids a day for three days. “There’s no such thing as a typical day,” he says. “I can be out with the team of horses plowing the field one day and baking cookies the next. A lot of what I do is focused on setting up and running a variety of programs.
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PEOPLE
“There are costume changes but most days I wear work clothes, which are heavy cotton work pants, not jeans, that are held up by suspenders, and an indigo blue tabcollar shirt. Work boots, straw hat.” Buck explained that as a heritage interpreter he is not speaking or acting in the first person. “I’m not trying to be a person from the 1890s, but the representation of a person from the 1890s. I try to be as authentic as I can.” Buck fields many questions about food. “People – more now – are very tuned in and interested in where their food comes from and how it’s raised. We think questions are as important as answers. We don’t necessarily have the answers, just what we know and read,” he explains. “We don’t have to step out of character, because we’re never in character, so we can talk about modern farming (as well).” Part of Buck’s job is to show farm life to visitors. “We’re a living history farm, not a ‘watching’ history farm. If we’re doing work, you’re doing work, and if we can get visitors involved, we will.” mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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“We’re a living history farm, not a ‘watching’ history farm. If we’re doing work, you’re doing work, and if we can get visitors involved, we will.” — Dennis Buck, heritage interpreter at Kline Creek Farm
Check out these weekend activities at Kline Creek Farm! Life on the Farm House Tour 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays Tour the farmhouse for a glimpse of 1890s life. Tours begin on the hour. All ages. Free. No registration. Blacksmithing Demonstrations 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Saturdays Stop by the wagon shed to see the blacksmith demonstrate the tools and techniques of the trade. All ages. Free. No registration. Holiday Sweets Sunday, November 26 12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Learn how to make bright, colorful hard candies, and take home recipes to start your own holiday tradition. Programs begin at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. All ages. Free. No registration. Questions? Call 630876-5900.
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Christmas on the Farm House Tour December 1, 2, and 3 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Enjoy the house decked in ornaments and greens, savor the spicy aromas of holiday treats as they bake in the wood-burning oven, and discover the origins of holiday foods, cards, decorated trees and other traditions. Tours begin on the hour. All ages. Free. No registration. Life by Lamplight House Tour 4 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. December 1, 2, and 3 What happens in the farmhouse once the sun goes down? Is there work to be done in the dark? What are the differences between how farms and factories marked time? Find out the answers on this lively tour. All ages. Free. No registration. Questions? Call 630-876-5900. Hayrides Take a private hayride through the farmstead and learn about the features of this historic preserve. Groups of 15 or more are encouraged to reserve rides. For more information, call 630-876-5900.
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String Theory Yarn Company bringing artisans, hobbyists together By DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK
backgrounds and those that might not meet otherwise, in other circles of their lives. The friendships that have formed around that table have become long lasting.
Photos by RON McKINNEY alk into String Theory Yarn Company and you walk into a world of color and texture. “We encourage people to touch things,” says Janet Avila, who opened her shop full of organic, fair trade and artisan yarns 13 years ago.“A lot of times people just need a break and wander around and look. We just want it to be a sanctuary. We want it to be inspiring.
In addition to burgeoning friendships, Avila sees a rising popularity in the needle arts in recent years. She says she believes it’s a direct response to our digital age.
At any given time there are people sitting, knitting, crocheting, doing needlework, just hanging out.
“Technology is moving incredibly quickly,” she says. “The balance of that is to create something with your hands.” Avila took that into consideration when naming her business. She had read about how knitters know that everything is connected to everything else. “I thought, ‘that is exactly my world view.’ Everything is connected. The small things we do here might have an impact all over the world. This is my world view …and it’s with yarn.”
“The community of people that has formed around Sring Theory is an amazing group of individuals and I love being a part of that,” says Avila. “It was a goal when I started. That’s why I put a big table in the middle of the store. It brings together people of different ages and
Knitting, previously a simple hobby, proved a viable therapy for Avila in 2001. The day after being laid off from her job as an instructional designer with Arthur Anderson, her brother was killed in the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center.
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Janet Avila, owner of String Theory Yarn Company
“I knitted, and I knitted, and I knitted, and tried to decide what to do next,” she says.“Then I figured that if I opened a store, [it would] support causes for people and groups that are doing good things in the world. “It’s my attempt to bring more peace to the world, through knitting and the companies I supported.” Avila deals with fair trade, organic and environmentally conscious “sheep-to-skein” companies in the United States and worldwide. One of the fair trade companies she buys from is Manos del Uruguay, a women’s cooperative.
Another supplier is June Cashmere, a company that buys 100 percent cashmere yarn directly from Kyrgyz shepherds in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia. “I love supporting small business, and moms who are indie dyers and make hand-painted yarns,” Avila says. “They’re able to balance family life, be creative and make something beautiful.” In addition to its vast selection of unique yarns, String Theory Yarn Company also offers classes in knitting, crochet, and now weaving and embroidery, no matter your skill level. “We love beginners,” Avila says.
String Theory Yarn Company
477 N. Main St. • Glen Ellyn 630-469-6085 www.stringtheoryyarncompany.com
“It’s an amazing organization that provides education and training. They even started a daycare for their kids. It’s a really great group of women.”
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PEOPLE
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Brewpoint Coffee an Elmhurst gem By ALLISON HORNE Photos by ALDO RISOLVO
I
f everything went according to planned, Melissa Villanueva and her husband Angelo Sepulveda would be putting a three-year business plan into motion and buying a coffee shop right around now.
But things didn’t go according to plan for the duo, who bought a coffee shop on a whim and created Brewpoint Coffee three years ago. The whole thing got started when Sepulveda advised Villanueva, who was unhappy at her current financial job, to quit the position and move on. She did so, and booked a ticket to the Philippines for a self-discovery trip the very next day. “When she first quit her job I was terrified,” Sepulveda says, adding that he never thought she’d actually up and quit without a plan. “I thought she was ruining her life.” But while in the Philippines, Villanueva hatched a plan: to open a coffee shop. And it wasn’t going to be a whirlwind. When she returned home, she wanted to put a plan together for the business, get a job to save money, and open her dream shop after three years of preparation. “The first week I got back from the Philippines, I started looking for an espresso machine on Craigslist and I found this place instead,” Villanueva says, referring to the first Brewpoint Coffee location on Park Avenue in Elmhurst. “We knew the place was perfect and there was just something about it. We knew right then that we were supposed to do this now.”
From Craigslist to COFFEE HOUSE
So Villanueva and Sepulveda – then dating – scratched that three-year plan and chose a three-day turnaround, instead, from the moment they signed the papers until they opened the doors, risking their savings in the processs. Sepulveda didn’t even drink coffee when they first bought the shop! (He now occasionally enjoys a double shot over ice.) Now married, the risk seems to have worked out for both of them. “I was going to help get it off the ground for three or four weeks, but we discovered that we really liked working together and our fields complemented each other,” Sepulveda says. “Melissa is the visionary and is great at building relationships and establishing the vision, while I’m a little bit more day-to-day,” he adds. “We really enjoy it and it’s hard to imagine not being together all of the time.” While Brewpoint gets its beans from all over the world (Guatemala, Brazil, Ethiopia, Mexico) one of the duo’s main partnerships is with Kalsada, a coffee
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company in the Philippines. Villanueva, formed a special connection with the owner of Kalsada after she met her on her first visit to the Philippines. They were both starting their own businesses and decided to partner up. Brewpoint also has its own in-house roaster, Ben Tanen, a self-proclaimed “coffee geek” responsible for the rich roasted finish of all of its coffee. But tasty as the coffee may be, Brewpoint’s staff also likes to get creative with the offering. The lavender chai is oh-so-popular, while the recently added “lumberjack latte” (smoked maple syrup, espresso and milk) graces the menu alongside the classic pumpkin drinks. The house coffee is Stargazer, a Sumatran coffee blended with a sweet Colombian. “We wanted to provide really high quality drink with the opportunity to experience the geeky side of coffee,” Sepulveda says. Instead of just isolating their delicious coffee in one location, the couple recently expanded the business, opening Lexicon Café inside the Elmhurst Library in September. “The only place I’d ever been to in Elmhurst [before we moved here] was the library, and I remember the coffee shop inside being closed,” she says. “Now we’re opening a café there.” In addition to the new café, the duo is in the process of opening a workshop and roastery in north Elmhurst in a former loading dock. They’re currently transforming the 4,000 square foot space into a coffee destination in the Western suburbs, complete with a café. “We’re going from being a coffee shop to a full-size coffee company,” Villanueva says.
Melissa Villanueva and her husband Angelo Sepulveda opened Brewpoint Coffee three years ago.
“We really prioritize our culture and the impact we’re making on the community,” she adds. “I think when it comes down to it, a big goal we have is to truly be a community space all people feel safe and included, no matter how you look. We’re hoping a larger space can make a larger impact.” And they’re currently doing just that for both their employees and the community. The couple lives above the original space in a two-bedroom apartment and often shares their guest bedroom/ office with any of their employees who need a place to crash. “As much as we’re growing and expanding, I don’t want to lose that connection to people.” While things haven’t gone exactly according to plan, there’s no mistaking that buying the coffee shop on a whim has panned out for the couple. “Every once in awhile we stop and look at each other and we say, ‘what are we doing? How did we get here?’” Sepulveda says.
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“It’s definitely surpassed anything we’ve ever planned,” Villanueva says. “It’s not for everyone, but it’s something we feel is making an impact on other people’s lives.
SUN-THUR: 11AM-1AM • FRI & SAT: 11AM-2AM GRILL: 11AM-10PM DAILY
“At the end of the day we feel like we’re making the world a better place.” SM-CL1467504
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Be thankful, give back | With Mike & Cyndi Allas
I
t’s hard to believe, but the holiday season is just around the corner. In this ever increasing hectic life that in which we find ourselves, the thought of another holiday season of shopping, wrapping gifts, preparing food and attending parties can seem daunting. We will do our part to help make your life a little easier this holiday season with some great wine suggestions for serving with your holiday meals and for easy host or hostess gifts. Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays of the year. It’s a time to visit with family and friends, eat and drink, and be thankful for our time together. Did I mention drinking? Choosing wines for Thanksgiving dinner always seems to give people great anxiety. But although the food traditionally served for Thanksgiving — and Christmas for that matter — features
a wide variety of seasonings and flavors, there are several wines that will likely pair with the majority of what you will be serving for the holidays. For a white wine, we recommend either a Chardonnay or a well-balanced Sauvignon Blanc. With a Chardonnay you don’t want an oak “bomb” in your mouth. This will only compete with the holiday flavors you will be serving. Instead we recommend either a lightly oaked or Chardonnay aged in stainless steel. The fruit becomes the star when there is a lack of oak and the fruit is what is going to complement the savory dishes of the holidays. Chardonnay has notes of green apple and tropical fruits, a creamy mouth feel and great acidity, which helps it to pair well with just about everything you may be serving. If Chardonnay isn’t your thing, then try a Sauvignon Blanc. It will have citrus flavors, herbal tones and minerality. Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with Turkey and mashed potatoes.
Ram’s Gate ($26.99) and Patz & Hall Chardonnay ($42.99) or Flint & Steel ($15.99) and Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc ($44.99) are some of our favorites. When it comes to red wine and Thanksgiving, Pinot Noir is king. With Pinot Noirs, the bright cherry flavors and herbal tones are a perfect compement to stuffing, and the main attraction, turkey! A good Pinot Noir will not overpower white meat or any of your accompaniments. If you like your wine a little bolder, then Zinfandel is a personal favorite of ours for pairing with the flavors of the holidays. Zinfandel typically will have a lot of bold fruit and a hint of spice. The fruit masks the fact that it’s a dry wine and the soft tannins won’t offend or fatigue your guests’ palates.
Bread & Butter ($14.99) and David Bruce Pinot Noir ($40.99) or Valravn ($18.99) and Kokomo Zinfandel ($27.99) are great choices. Rosé and sparkling wine are two more choices that are crowd pleasers. Rosé is like the white version of Pinot Noir, the flavors won’t overpower your meal, instead
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the balance of fruit and acidity lends itself to compliment a wide range of foods. We have said it many times before … sparkling wines go with most anything. With an abundance of fruit and a hint of residual sugar, sparkling wines go great with anything fried or salty, and the bubbles have a naturally cleansing effect on the palate.
Tres Sabores “Ingrid & Julia” Rosé ($21.99) or Domaine Carneros Brut ($30.99) will surely make your guests happy. What you may have noticed is that all of our wine recommendations are from Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Our hearts go out to all of those affected by the recent devastating fires that ravaged the most famous wine regions of California. We reached out to some of our contacts from the California wine country and asked what we could do to help. Each of them said the same thing, “just keep selling wine from the region.” So during this holiday season, when looking for that perfect gift, or toasting your friends and family, we encourage you to reach for a wine from California, and to give thanks to all that you have and to all those that have had positive influence on your life. Mike & Cyndi own Tannins Wine Bar in Elmhurst. With over 50 years combined experience in the hospitality industry their approach to wine is relaxed, uncomplicated and always drink what you enjoy!
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A change for the better
Gluten free diets bring relief for digestive disorders | By ELIZABETH HARMON
W
hen Ali Graeme’s thentwelve year old son was diagnosed with Celiac disease in 2007, the news came with a measure of relief and lots of questions. Though the family was grateful for a diagnosis after two years of testing and distress for their son, they were also daunted by the drastic dietary changes he would have to make. “We felt like, okay he’s twelve years old, and can’t eat anything,” Graeme recalls. Just a few weeks later, she was diagnosed as well. Graeme began to experiment in her home kitchen to adapt recipes for a gluten-free diet. “There was a lot of trial and error. You can’t just take an old family recipe, grab any gluten-free flour and have it come out right,” she says. The homemade gluten-free flour blends Graeme created for her family, formed the basis for a new business, Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery, which she opened in Hinsdale in 2009. The certified gluten-free bakery offers fresh-baked sweet and savory breads, muffins, cookies, cupcakes, special occasion cakes and also a line of gluten free mixes.
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The Graemes are among the estimated 1.6 million Americans who follow a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a natural protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Though not inherently unhealthful, for people with certain medical conditions, consuming gluten can cause diarrhea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, bloating, Eating clean and gas, nausea and constipation. excluding as
many processed foods as possible are big steps toward a glutenfree life.
Eating gluten-free means avoiding foods made with wheat, rye, barley, or oats. That list includes most breads, baked goods, soups, sauces, commercial salad dressings, pasta, beer, and cereals. While that might sound like a lot, vegetables, fruit, meat, poultry, seafood, beans, legumes and nuts are all part of a gluten-free diet. There are also a number of grains and starchy foods that are safe, including rice, potatoes, quinoa, corn, tapioca and more. Find a list on the Celiac Disease Foundation’s website, www.celiac. org. Eating clean and excluding as many processed foods as possible are big steps toward a glutenfree life. Gluten is a hidden ingredient in many processed foods, medications, diet supplements and even HEALTH & WELLNESS
lipstick. Elizabeth Zawila, a registered dietician with Good Samaritan Health and Wellness Center in Downers Grove says that it’s important to check labels and know what ingredients can indicate the presence of gluten. When in doubt, she advises calling the 800 numbers on the labels of many products. “The representatives know if the product is gluten free. It’s a good idea to keep a list of products that you’ve called to check,” she says. While there’s a popular perception that glutenfree diets are healthier than conventional diets, that isn’t necessarily true. “There are nutritional benefits to gluten and I don’t advise it for everyone,” Zawila says. Gluten free diets can be deficient in nutrients such as fiber, folate and other essentials, so it’s important to work with a dietician or doctor to maintain proper nutrition. Graeme adds that gluten-free eating is not a weight-loss solution. “People may lose weight because they’re not eating big bowls of pasta, but if a person comes in and orders a gluten-free cupcake, it’s still a cupcake,” she said. But for Celiac sufferers like Graeme and her son, as well as those with other gluten-related conditions such as wheat allergy and non-Celiac gluten sensitivity, eliminating gluten can mean a better quality of life. Patients with other digestive issues may find relief as well. “For some people, especially those with irritable bowel syndrome, it can help,” Zawila says. mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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In-Home Color Consultations available at your neighborhood Chicago Sherwin-Williams stores Our professionally trained ColorSnap® In-Home Consultants will meet with you in the comfort of your home to help you choose the perfect colors and create a space you’ll love. During your 90-minute consultation, the In-Home Color Consultant will create a custom color palette that fits your decorating style. You will also receive product and overall project advice that will help give your space a professional, finished appearance.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM YOUR COLORSNAP® IN-HOME CONSULTATION. • Receive a $50 Sherwin-Williams gift card*– If you are a member of our PaintPerks™ program, when you purchase your $95 color consultation, you will receive a $50 Sherwin-Williams gift card to use toward the purchase of your paint and supplies. • Pre-consult phone call – Prior to your consultation, your In-Home Color Consultant will call you to get a better understanding of your personal decorating style, as well as the specifics of your project. • Free Paint Color Sample Coupon – Try a free paint sample on us with our Buy One, Get One Free paint sample coupon. • Project shopping list – Your ColorSnap® In-Home Consultant will create a personalized shopping list that includes your color selections and all your project needs. If you’re ready to get started, your consultant will even have your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams store prepare your order and have it ready for pickup. It’s that simple.
Visit sherwinwilliams.com/colorsnapconsultation to find a location near you.
*Customer must be a Preferred Customer in order to receive the $50 Sherwin-Williams ColorSnap® In-Home Consultation gift card. The Sherwin-Williams a customerLIFE under any circumstances which Company reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to refuse to provide In-Home Color Consultation services forSUBURBAN mysuburbanlife.com/magazine MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2017 | 19 it reasonably believes could result in peril to its employees. In the event of such refusal, the customer shall be offered a refund, together with the opportunity to meet with a consultant on Company premises, if the customer so elects. ©2017 The Sherwin-Williams Company SL Magazine November 2017_USE.indd 19
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hot fall ACCESSORIES and where to find them | With Stacy Kallas
Let’s just hit the ground running… inquiring fashionistas want to know! Happy accessorizing! Run with it and enjoy! The Choker The style has gained in popularity the last couple of years and it is reaching the peak of its trend this season. They come in leather, chain, charms — so many options to choose from — and we love them all. You can find them in virtually any store that carries accessories, so set aside time to peruse and find your favorites!
The Shoe Fall just isn’t fall without boots, but for a change of pace, let’s talk about our favorite fall shoe, the mule. You are seeing it everywhere and for good reason, they are trendy and versatile. Wear them to the office or with a pair of jeans. You can do a more conservative mule such as the basic black with chain embellishment or get a little edgy and try crocodile embossed leather or a rich fall tone.
Bags
Macy’s is a great place to start your search for the perfect mule.
The personal favorite? Well, there’s more than just one. However, we were partial to the circle wristlets and circle bags. You can find some by Diane Von Furestenburg at Saks 5th Avenue or online at DVF.com.
The Jewelry From shoulder grazing to statement pieces, the earring is large and loud this season. If you dare to wear, check out the selection of drop hoops at H&M. Bracelets are back in leather, gold, silver, steel, stones, charms, layer them or wear them single, we love all the of the styles.
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FASHION & BEAUTY
The runway showcased incredible bags for the fall season and we loved every single one of them. Clutches, box bags, vintage, embroidered, embellished, big and small, the options are endless and the styles are amazing.
The tote bag is the perfect solution for work and play. Big roomy and easy to handle, it’ll take you anywhere you want to go. Check out the reversible tote with different color options from DSW from T-Shirt and Jeans. Stacy Kallas is the director of marketing and advertising at Stratford Square Mall in Bloomingdale. She has served as a director for super regional shopping centers throughout the Chicago area for more than 15 years. She highlights current fashion trends and stores within Stratford mall. mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS
at Stratford Square Santa Photos November 11th - December 24th Storytime with the Bloomindale Library Thursday, November 2 | 11am
Santa’s Arrival with WTTW - Clifford the Big Red Dog Saturday, November 11th | 11am Craft Time with Santa & The Bloomingdale Park District Saturday, November 18th | 12pm – 2pm Located at: Army Trail Rd. & Gary Ave. Bloomingdale, IL 630.539.1000 mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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For More Information visit www.STRATFORDMALL.COM SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2017 | 21
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12-love Teens turn to tennis to tackle community need | By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE
O
n the tennis court, Mattigan Kelly says the mental strategy is just as important as her skills when it comes to defeating her opponents.
And earlier this year she used her attention to detail and strong competitive spirit along with her passion for tennis to help others through the 12th annual Mattigan Tennis Fun Fest. “It’s all about helping others and having the community come together for a great time,” Mattigan Kelly says. The annual event started with her older brother Crofton, who at age 8 decided he wanted to have a tennis tournament as a fundraiser. That first year, he set his goal to raise money for victims of Hurricane Katrina.
treatments and affects of cancer. The Kelly family decided to raise funds for The Treasure Chest at the annual fundraiser. “It’s a literal treasure chest in the pediatric oncology unit where the children can go to and pick out something,” says Alison Kelly. “It just makes a really lousy day a little bit better.” As Crofton maintained the annual event, little sister Mattigan continued to assist. When Crofton left for Vanderbilt University, Mattigan was ready to take the reins and with some
One reason for the increase was the new addition of an online auction, an idea from Tom Cahill, director of the Hinsdale Racquet Club. It was Cahill who had suggested Crofton move the tennis fundraiser from a local park to the club years ago, to allow for more people to attend. Cahill says when he learned about the fundraisers he wanted to help. “I know how hard it can be to be a kid, let alone a kid who is sick,” Cahill says. The father of two says the idea of supporting the Treasure Chest touches at his heart. “It’s about bringing people together and uniting behind one common goal,” Cahill says. With the support from his staff at the Hinsdale Racquet Club, and his experience working with local charities and fundraisers, Cahill says he was able to help shepherd the Kelly children and guide them in the annual fundraiser.
“Crofton stuck with it and every year would say ‘I’m definitely going to do it,’” Alison Kelly recalls. “It was amazing.”
“When he heard about the event he jumped right on board,” Alison Kelly says. “He gets very involved and giving his time. He’s been incredibly generous and a real partner in running the event.”
For 10 years Crofton continued with the tradition of a tennis-based fundraiser. A few years into the annual event, the Kelly family discovered a close family friend had a toddler battling cancer. They learned about The Treasure Chest, a locally-based organization that provides pediatric cancer patients with small toys and gifts, designed to help bring joy as the young patients endure
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This year the event raised $9,400, making it the most successful fundraising year for the event.
Crofton Kelly and Mattigan Kelly
Alison Kelly, mother of Crofton and Mattigan, says she was proud of her son’s initiative, but figured it might just be a one year thing.
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sibling rivalry, she decided she would increase the event’s fundraising goals.
To date, the Crofton and Mattigan have raised more than $63,000 since they began the Tennis Fun Fest. The addition of an online auction helped increase the proceeds for the event,
BUSINESS & CIVIC
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Check Out The annual fundraiser is all about helping others and having the community come together for a great time.
with donations from local businesses as well as support from the Anthony Rizzo Foundation, Cubs Cares and Cahill’s personal request to members of the Blackhawks organization. Cahill said his own experience with fundraising, including his work with Catholic Charities, helped him to understand fundraising and network with others. “[Cahill} has been amazing, giving us strategies, helping us to get the [Tennis] pros to participate,” Mattigan says. The event features drills and games, encouraging participants to get on the tennis court and have a good time, Mattigan says. The Treasure Chest is based in Orland Park works with a network of hospitals across the country, providing toys and small gifts for children of all ages.
to See What Santa Might Have in Store for You...
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In her free time, Mattigan Kelly plays doubles for the varsity team at Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, and says tennis is “a beautiful game.” She says she loves her teammates and the sport, and although she’s in her senior year, she’s not quite ready to pass on the annual fundraiser to her younger brother. She plans to continue the tradition another summer and see if she can surpass her fundraising goals again.
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BUSINESS & CIVIC
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‘Tis the Season
Silver Belle
Michael Kors Designed Anthracite dyed Swakara Lamb Walking Coat Infused with Silver Metallic Highlights, Swarovski Crystal Embellished Bracelet Cuff Evening Bag
For Glam or on the Go, the extensive York Collection features gorgeous furs, versatile fine outerwear, and awesome accessories. for him or her, yourself or someone really special, this season’s Must Haves are ON SALE NOW!
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Furs Cashmeres Leathers Shearlings Handbags 24 | NOVEMBER 2017 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE
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York Furrier pairs style with tradition
at third-generation family business By ALLISON HORNE | Photos by MISSY DONOVAN
It’s been more than 86 years since York Furrier first opened its doors in 1931 at the York Street location in Elmhurst. There’s no secret behind the business’ success. The third generation family-owned retailer, which is adorned with co-owner Kathy Rezny’s family crest, is known for its dedication to its craft, personalized customer service, and an extensive selection of gorgeous furs, stylish fine outerwear and luxe accessories. Clients travel from Chicago, the North Shore, Far Western Suburbs, and throughout the Midwest to shop for new fashions and to service their own fur and outerwear garments. “As a community member for over eight-and-ahalf decades, the York Furrier staff offers clients the ultimate in personalized, attentive service,” Rezny says. “We really know our cherished clientele – customers who become dear friends.” Rezny and her husband and fellow co-owner, John, work with a staff of around 30 people to provide both sales and a full range of services in both the Elmhurst City Centre location and in the Deer Park Town Center store, which opened in 2004. York Furrier’s extensive selection includes styles for both men and women created from furs (mink, sheared furs, fox, lynx, sable, chinchilla, 42 | NOVEMBER 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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etc.), shearlings, cashmeres, leathers, down and skiwear. Or, clients may opt to work with the York Furrier Design Team to create a custommade fur garment, home décor (fur pillows, throws, blankets or chair covers) or accessory items (fur scarves, a fur clutch, trim leather gloves, or a pair of boots or shoes). “The York Furrier 86th Anniversary Collection is very extensive, and features innovative designer fashions, as well as our own classically-inspired signature styles,” says Rezny. Ensconced in the elegant wood display cases, clients will find the creative designs of Zac Posen, Derek Lam, Dominic Bellissimo, Norman Ambrose, Monique Lhuillier and Michael Kors.
the pelts will be in good condition, and we will be able to rework, restyle or repurpose the pelts into a better fit, new style or perhaps create a mink Teddy Bear or accessory item,” Rezny says. And for those that are no longer in love with their older fur coat, York offers a generous trade-in allowance for old furs toward a new fur purchase. “At York Furrier, we’re the perfect blend of trend and tradition,” says Rezny. “The York collection features both innovative fashions and classic styles.” There’s something “FUR” everyone.
For clients’ own fur and fine outerwear garments, York Furrier provides a full range of professional, on-premises services: summer storage in secure, humidity and temperature controlled vaults, cleaning and conditioning, repairs, alterations and complete re-styling of older fur garments. When it comes to older fur garments, the York Furrier design team is able to refurbish Grandma’s full-length mink coat into a shorter, walking coat length with a slim silhouette for YORK FURRIER a granddaughter that lives in the city, says Rezny. 107 N. York Street, Elmhurst “As long as a fur coat has been well cared for, 630-832-2200 | YorkFur.com FASHION & & BEAUTY BUSINESS CIVIC
www.nwherald.com/magazine SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2017 | 25
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Holiday house walks to offer inspiration, ideas for decorating | By AIMEE BARROWS ne of the best parts of the Christmas season is the festive decorations displayed around local communities and in homes. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to deck your halls, or simply like to see how others decorate, a house walk is a great way to get some creative ideas as you prepare your home for the holidays. The Naperville Garden Club’s Cup of Cheer House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea takes place Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. This is the 57th year of the popular event, which showcases four homes in four different subdivisions, followed by a market and tea at the White Activities Center on the campus of North Central College. Naperville resident Dayna Nguyen has attended the house walk for several years, but this time, she’s a participant. Nguyen says it takes her about a
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month to decorate her home, which she can’t wait to show off. “I love Christmas and I love decorating. I feel like my home is the coziest with the warmth that comes with the colors,” she says. “My house is very modern, so I like to go very traditional with my decorating. And I love sparkles and anything that lights up. I want to make my home special for my girls, the way my family did for me when I was growing up.” This fourth annual Wheaton Holiday House Walk features a mixture of larger homes and small cottages to appeal to a variety of homeowners. Sue Schaffler of Wheaton is a big fan of house walks, having gotten many of her own decorating inspiration from them in the past. This is the first time she’s opened up her home for the tour, and she hopes others will be inspired. “I love house walks because I get so many good ideas. I take a little bit of each house and apply it mine, so I hope people enjoy my home,” she says. “I go all out for Christmas, and I do it a little differently each year. I love to decorate and have family over for our holiday traditions.”
OUT & ABOUT
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(and the hearth, and the table)
Check out these three great house walks this season! Wheaton Holiday House Walk Sat., Nov. 11 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door and are available at several local businesses or from any Flight choir member. For more information about purchasing tickets, visit wheatonholidayhousewalk.com. Naperville Cup of Cheer House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea Thurs., Nov. 30 & Fri. Dec. 1 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. both days Tickets are $55 for Nov. 30 (limited number of tickets sold this day so tours are more intimate and detailed) and $35 for Dec. 1. For more information about purchasing tickets, visit napervillegardenclub.org. Elmhurst Hospital Memorial Foundation 41st Annual Reindeer House Walk Fri., Dec. 1 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 on Dec. 1. They can be purchased in beginning in mid-November at the EMH Foundation office at Elmhurst Hospital. For more information, call (331) 221-0388 or visit emhfoundation.org/events. Â
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OUT & ABOUT
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Artist SHOWCASE
Kasia Szczesniewski studied Architecture at Wroclaw University of Technology, Poland; after immigrating to USA, she continued her artistic training at the Harper Community College, attended many workshops, and spent years on self-educating, and refining her skills.
KASIA SZCZESNIEWSKI | GLEN ELLYN “WINDY FANTASY” ACRYLICS
Today, Kasia enjoys creating mixed-media projects, which involve use of different types of paper, or recycled materials. She also loves to make heavy textured, acrylic paintings.
To submit an entry to Artist Shocase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village oresidence 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.”
Her inspiration comes from nature, its mysterious beauty, and from believing in the deep connection between all elements of the universe. Nowadays, Kasia is an active member of the Chicago
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art community, showing and selling her works, doing commissions, and organizing art events. She received many awards (Casanova Award Venezia; Uffizi Award Firenze), exhibited in prestigious galleries like Amsterdam-Whitney in New York, Attended Art Expo Carousel du Louvre in Paris, Biennale d’Arte at “Caserma dell’Artiglieria” of Peschiera del Garda (Italy), was interviewed by Polish radio and TV stations, published in art magazines (Art &Beyond; Art International), and her art is presented on two pages of the book “Living Artists of Today-Contemporary Art International.” You can view her works on www.KasiaArtStudio. com and in the Facebook Gallery www.facebook.com/ KasiaArtStudio. mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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The
SALT CREEK BALLET
Nut�ackk SERGEY KOZADAYEV ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
featuring INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED GUEST ARTISTS
Tickets: www.saltcreekballet.org
HINSDALE CENTRAL AUDITORIUM featuring Chicago West Chamber Orchestra Saturday November 25, 1pm & 5pm Sunday, November 26, 1pm
followed by the Sugar
CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY Saturday, December 9 1pm & 5pm
Plum Party
NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE Saturday, December 16 1pm & 5pm Sunday, December 17, 2pm This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
The Grover Hermann Foundation
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What’s for dinner? Myths About Our Pets’ Foods | With Thomas F. Dock
A
sking someone about their preferences in pet foods can be as polarizing as asking about their political affiliation. Many pet owners have very strong opinions and beliefs when it comes to the type of food they choose for their four-legged companions, and that is certainly their right. Advocates can be found for grain-free diets, homemade foods or even natural, organic and “whole food” formulations. But deciding which pet food is “best” for your dog or cat often is an exercise fraught with confusion and a fair amount of misinformation. To make matters worse, a host of pet nutrition myths are rampant on the Internet. What’s the truth and what’s not when it comes to pet nutrition? CORN CONTROVERSY First, a very common assertion in online discussions, and even in our veterinary exam rooms, is that corn is a bad ingredient and our pets cannot digest it. In fact, some people will outright refuse any pet food that contains any corn in the formulation. This myth comes about because of the human preference for eating whole kernel corn. But, looking more closely at ingredient labels, pet owners will see that the “corn” present in many pet foods is actually corn meal or even corn gluten meal. These processed ingredients provide a very high quality carbohydrate source and, in the case of corn gluten meal, a very digestible and good source of amino acids. The amino acids found in corn protein complement many of the amino acids found in meat, thereby creating a food with all the essential amino acids a pet needs. An important fact to remember is that the nutrients are the most important part of a pet’s diet, not the specific ingredients! Despite the numerous myths circulating, corn is no more allergenic that any other protein source, and actually has been shown to be less allergenic than beef, soy, wheat and dairy proteins. WHERE’S THE BEEF? The next myth has to do with an unfortunate naming convention. Almost everyone has seen pet food commercials showing paid actors pretending to be disgusted by the pet food ingredient called “meat by-products.” Again, the confusion and misunderstandings happen because of what humans have decided to name particular parts of the meat-producing animals. Skeletal muscle is the most common meat that ends up in our grocery stores and on our dinner plates. But, there is a lot of muscle and other protein rich organs that are not consumed by people. Since we don’t use these leftovers for human food, they are termed “by-products.” In reality, by-products include highly digestible and nutritious organs, such as the liver and lungs and do NOT include things like hair, horns or hooves, as advertising gimmicks would have you believe.
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More to the point, if pet food companies did not use these organs and other parts, a large portion of the animals we raise for food would go to waste, resulting in the need to raise even more animals to feed our pets. As the American Animal Hospital Association has said, “Feeding by-products = green living.” SCHOOLING THE VETS Finally, many people believe that veterinarians are not instructed in any sort of nutrition basics during their intense schooling. This is actually a big fallacy, as almost all veterinarians will have at least a semester devoted to nutrition and many may have completed undergraduate nutrition courses before applying to veterinary school. At Noah’s Ark, our veterinarians, veterinary technicians and even other support staff attend continuing education opportunities that discuss nutrition and the latest research into what our animals eat. What you feed your pet will be a decision you make based on a variety of factors. But, don’t fall victim to Internet fads promoted by individuals without scientific training, or by those who will profit when you purchase their brand of food. It’s also important to review a variety of information sources before you reach any conclusion about how good or bad a particular ingredient might be.
Whether you choose to use a grain-free diet, an organic pet food or the cheapest food you can find, it’s important to discuss your pet’s nutrition with your veterinarians and veterinary technicians. They can help you understand what the pet food labels really mean and help you make a sound decision based on the needs of your pet.
Thomas Dock, BSC, Certified Veterinary Journalist, is the Practice Director for Noah’s Animal Hospital at Wheaton. With more than 27 years experience in the pet and veterinary professions, Tom helps the Noah’s team focus on “Putting the Needs of the Pet and the Pet’s Family First.” See more at animalhospitalwheaton.com. mysuburbanlife.com/magazine
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FAMILY IN FOCUS
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