Skip to main content

STROLL Arlington Heights April 2026

Page 1


COVER PHOTO BY
ELENI SAKAS

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

ATTORNEY

Anthony J. Madonia & Associates (312) 578-9300 madonia.com

BEAUTY

Sans Soleil Sunless Tan (847) 852-6677 www.sansoleiltan.glossgenius.com

DENTISTRY & MEDSPA

Fantastic Smiles (847) 577-5464 fantastic-smiles.com

EVENT DESIGNS

Event Couture Flowers & Balloons (224) 200-3445 www.eventcouturechicago.com

GOLF

Golf VX - Arlington Heights (847) 749-1054 www.playgolfvx.com

HAIR SALON

Eleven 11 Hair Studio (847) 812-1218 www.eleven11hair.com

HEATING/COOLING

Home Comfort Services, Inc HomeComfort.net

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REMODELING

Michael Kautz Carpets (847) 394-8200 michaelkautz.com

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH

Mikari Integrative Health & Aesthetics (224) 484-0424 www.mikarimedspa.com

MASSAGE

Opal Massage Therapy (224) 578-6133 www.opallmt.com

NON-PROFIT/CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION

WINGS Program, Inc. (847) 519-7820 www.wingsprogram.com

PLUMBING SERVICES

Goode Plumbing (773) 930-3451 goodeplumbing.com

REALTORS

Dazzo & Schneider @properties (847) 797-0200 www.atproperties.com/teams/841/ dazzo-and-schneider

Kobra Hall - Fulton Grace Realty (773) 297-5261 www.Kobrahall.com

RESTAURANTS

Cortland’s Garage (847) 577-2525 cortlandsgarage.com

ROOFING/SIDING/WINDOWS/DOORS

Erdmann Exterior Designs LTD (847) 357-9607 www.erdmannexteriors.com

SENIOR/ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE

Lutheran Home for the Aged (224) 735-4036 lutheranlifecommunities.org

TRAVEL PLANNER

Ocean Prime Travel - Cruise Planners (561) 960-9800 oceanprimetravel.com

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

EMERGENCY

Fire Police and Ambulance

Police Department Nonemergency

Fire Department Nonemergency

Poison Control Hotline

Public Works Dept

Groot — Garbage Pickup

Wide Open West

TRANSPORTATION

RECREATION

Rolling Green Country Club

Arlington Heights Park District

(847) 253-5532

(847) 368-5000 (847) 259-6337 (847) 368-5100 (847) 392-0100

(847) 758-4900 (847) 718-7600

(877) 863-6338 (800) 252-2873 (833) 234-6343

Senior Center

CITY

Arlington Heights Village Hall

Arlington Heights Mayor

Arlington Heights Village Manager

Arlington Heights Memorial Library

SCHOOLS

District 25 Office

District 214 Office

HOTLINES

Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline

Child Abuse Hotline

Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances

Sophie Wery Resident Writer
Tina Kanter Resident Writer
Sarah Lauch Resident Writer Kate Kelly Resident Writer

APRIL

Spring is finally arriving, and with it comes a renewed sense of energy throughout our wonderful town. April always feels like a fresh start. As the weather warms, neighbors reconnect, kids head back outside, and our neighborhood begins to buzz again with activity. It’s a reminder of what makes our community so special.

At Stroll Scarsdale – Arlington Heights Community Magazine, our mission is simple: to bring neighbors together by sharing the stories of the people, families, kids, not for profits, and local businesses that make Arlington Heights such a great place to call home. Thank you to the residents who share their stories and photos with us, and

to our amazing local business partners whose support helps bring this magazine to your mailbox each month.

Wishing you all a wonderful April filled with sunshine, fresh starts, and time spent outdoors again enjoying our beautiful bloomin’ town!

Be sure to visit our new website at www.strollscarsdalearlingtonheights. com your digital front porch for staying up to date on what’s happening around town. Be sure to check out our complete community calendar. Got an event to share, let us know, we will help share the good news!

Happy Spring Arlington Heights!

Warmly, Dolly McCarthy Publisher, Stroll Scarsdale–Arlington Heights

LET’S GET TOGETHER!

You should be here!

April 8th and May 13th, 9 - 10:15 AM

Don’t miss the Stroll Monthly coffees! Open to all in the Arlington Heights community. Our monthly coffees will be held the second Wednesday of every month at Lutheran Home, 800 W. Oakton Street, Arlington Heights. Thanks to Kobra Hall with Fulton Grace Realty for sponsoring these coffee gatherings. We look forward to seeing you all! RSVP StrollScarsdale@gmail.com.

Scan the QR code to sign up to receive a digital copy of STROLL ScarsdaleArlington Heights, nominate a neighbor, athlete or pet to be featured in an upcoming issue!

Community Calendar

Thursday, April 2

12:00pm - 5:00pm

Community Blood Drive

Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights

Any donor-related questions can be directed to 1-800-7To-GIVE. Register at ahml.info

Friday, April 3

Good Friday

Saturday, April 4

9:00am

Power Yoga with Pelvic Floor Focus

Northwest Wellness Group, 1702 W. Campbell, Arlington Heights $20 per person. RSVP to info@northwestwellnessgroup.com

Saturday, April 4Saturday, April 25

8:00am -12:00pm

Saturday Indoor Market

Bitter & Sweet Cocktails, 157 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights

Bitter & Sweet hosts local small businesses at an indoor farmers market Saturdays through the end of April. Visit @bitter_and_sweet_cocktails on Instagram

Sunday, April 5

Easter

Tuesday, April 7

Arlington Heights Park District

Summer Program Resident Registration

Secure your child’s spot for a season filled with adventure, friendship and non-stop fun. Visit ahpd.org

Wednesday, April 8

9:00am -10:15am

Stroll Monthly Community Coffee Lutheran Home, 800 W. Oakton St., Arlington Heights

Don’t miss the Stroll Monthly coffees! Open to all in the Arlington Heights community. Our monthly coffees will be held the second Wednesday of every

month. Thanks to Kobra Hall with Fulton Grace Realty for sponsoring these coffee gatherings. We look forward to seeing you all!

RSVP StrollScarsdale@gmail.com

Thursday, April 9

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Arlington Heights Senior Center World Cultural Celebration

Arlington Heights Senior Center, 1801 W. Central Rd., Arlington Heights

This exciting event will feature the music and food of India and France, including performances of the Can-Can and Bollywood dance numbers. Fee is $5. Register at myactivecenter.com

Friday, April 10

Clearbrook Shining Star Gala

The Ritz-Carlton, Water Tower Place, 160 E Pearson St., Chicago Clearbrook’s 38th annual Shining Star Ball will feature a lavish dinner, dancing, auctions, and the opportunity to make an extraordinary impact on the individuals served by Clearbrook. Purchase tickets at https://www.clearbrook.org/ssb/

Saturday, April 18

10:00am -12:00pm Walk for Autism

Lake Arlington, 2201 N. Windsor Dr., Arlington Heights

Please join Arlington Heights Park District in collaboration with Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) as we walk to celebrate, support and bring awareness to autism. This event is free and open to all ages and abilities. Pets of any kind are not allowed. Visit ahpd.org

Saturday, April 18 and April 25

2:00pm-3:00pm

Cardio Kidz Conditioning FLO FITNESS, 711 S. Vermont St., Palatine HYROX-inspired fitness stations, designed to help kids run faster, move quicker and grow stronger. Ages Kindergarten - 8th grade Visit cardiokidz.org

STROLL is a proud sponsor!

Sunday, April 19

Arlington Heights Memorial Library

Centennial Celebration

Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights Visit ahml.info

Wednesday, April 22

Earth Day

Friday, April 24

9:30am -11:00am

Arbor Day Celebration

Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St.,

Arlington Heights

Join the Village of Arlington Heights and Arlington Heights Park District for the 42nd Annual Arbor Day Celebration at Recreation Park – a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating our majestic trees! Beginning April 1, students from preschool to 6th grade can participate in the annual Arbor Day Drawing Contest. Visit ahpd.org

Saturday, April 25

3:00pm - 4:30pm

Arlingtones Spring Show

First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights

The Arlingtones are an award-winning non-profit a cappella chorus. There will also be a cash-only raffle for gift cards to various stores and restaurants at the show! Purchase tickets at Arlingtones.net

Wednesday, April 29

9:00am -10:30am

The Nonprofit Exchange Cardinal Room, Arlington Heights

Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights

Connect with fellow nonprofit professionals to learn, share best practices and highlight your organization’s work.

Coffee, tea and pastries provided. Visit ahml.info

Foster Progress making steady progress in Arlington Heights

Tell us about Foster Progress. We are a Chicago-based nonprofit that helps young people who have experienced foster care succeed in college and build fulfilling futures through longterm mentoring, targeted scholarships, and hands-on guidance. For many students with foster care experience, the challenge isn’t motivation or talent; it’s navigating adulthood and higher education without a support system. Foster Progress pairs students with consistent mentors and provides scholarship support to help cover gaps.

How did Foster Progress begin? Kate Danielson founded Foster Progress in 2016 on the principle that youth who experience foster care need more than the basics the system provides. Our mission is to empower youth from foster care to attain a college degree and transition into adulthood by providing mentorship, advocacy, and educational opportunities.

Why is it so important to our community? Youth with foster care experience are part of the Arlington Heights community and rely on the same systems and opportunities as their peers, often with far fewer supports. Arlington Heights residents

volunteer their time as mentors, offering consistency, encouragement, and guidance. Foster Progress helps ensure that no young person in our community is navigating life’s biggest transitions alone, and that Arlington Heights remains a place where opportunity is paired with support.

Is there a way that others can get involved with the organization? One of the most impactful ways to help is by becoming a mentor. Mentors provide consistent encouragement and guidance to students as they navigate college and early adulthood, and those longterm relationships are at the heart of our work. Also, donations help fund scholarships and cover essential expenses that can otherwise derail a student’s education. Community members with professional experience and a passion for education and equity can join our Board of Directors, where they can help guide the organization’s growth and sustainability.

Are there any important events coming up for your organization? Foster Progress will host its annual Horizon Gala on Saturday, May 2, at The Ivy Room in Chicago. The event brings together mentors, donors, and community members to celebrate student success and raise critical funds to support our mentoring and scholarship programs.

www.foster-progress.org Kate.Kelly@foster-progress.org

A Foster Progress mentor and mentee at the mentee’s graduation.
A Foster Progress mentor and mentee celebrate the mentee’s achievements at a graduation luncheon.
A Foster Progress youth tours a college campus.

AROUND TOWN

“Our bosses are the residents,” said Mayor Jim Tinaglia, speaking before 200 residents at the Mayor’s State of the Village address. His address touched on countless successful city programs, accolades and, of course, the Chicago Bears.

Saint Viator students staged a performance of “Big Fish,” the school’s 50th annual winter musical.
Members of the Arlingtones performed “Singing Valentines” throughout the community, including at Lutheran General Hospital.
The Arlington Heights Junior Womens Club met for their first Board Meeting of 2026.
The Arlington Heights Fire Department beat the Elgin Fire Department in a charity hockey game to raise money for Project Fire Buddies. Way to go, guys!
Residents celebrated the opening of the Arlington Ridge Center’s new expansion.
Owen from Chicago Butter Tart sold sweet and savory treats at Bitter and Sweet Cocktails’ indoor farmers market. The market runs through the end of April.
“Stranger Things” actor (and Arlington Heights resident) Jake Connelly stopped by the Arlington Heights Memorial Library to film a video sharing some of his favorite things with library staff.

THE ARLINGTONES: COMMUNITY IN HARMONY

Who are the Arlingtones? The Arlingtones are part of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) and bring people together in harmony and fellowship to enrich lives through singing. We are a non-profit organization that provides entertainment in various venues including patriotic community events, farmers markets, senior living centers, and baseball games, as well as for veterans and active military recruits.

What types of services or programs do the Arlingtones offer? Through the BHS we provide education in all aspects of barbershop singing. We often do gratis work in Arlington Heights and surrounding suburbs as well as for military and veterans groups.

What inspired you to dedicate yourself to this cause? The kindness, collegiality and generosity of the group keeps me coming back. The Arlingtones have been

a permanent fixture in the northwest suburbs for nearly 75 years and we’d like to ensure that it will continue to thrive. We all get a great deal of gratification from performing for seniors who can’t get out to enjoy musical performances and we especially enjoy singing for our veterans and military recruits.

In what ways have you seen the Arlingtones’ efforts positively impact the community? We love singing at the senior centers at at civic events. We’ve sung a couple of times at the Boomers baseball game in Schaumburg and I’m always surprised at how attentive the crowd is and how complimentary the folks are. One of our most rewarding events is when we sing for new recruits from Great Lakes Naval Station

“We

all get a great deal of gratification from performing for seniors who can’t get out to enjoy musical performances and we especially enjoy singing for our veterans and military recruits.”

who can’t go home for Thanksgiving. These are young kids, possibly away from home for the first time in their lives, and they are the best audience. It’s a gift to be able to sing for them.

How can others in the community get involved? Our spring show is our top priority now. It’s on Saturday, April 25th at 3pm at the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights. In addition to the Arlingtones, some of our quartets will be performing. We are also featuring a guest quartet, “North 40” from outside of Chicago, of which our musical director is part.

Is there any other information you’d like to share about the Arlingtones? We would love to have new members who enjoy singing. We’re a mixed chorus; men and women are all welcome. We meet every Monday evening at the First United Methodist Church of Palatine at 123 Plum Grove Rd. in Palatine from 6:30-8:30 p.m. No advanced notice needed. Visitors can just listen if they like or can belt out the tunes with the rest of us. Guests usually get hooked the first time they visit!

www.arlingtones.net

MELANIE CONCKLIN
The Arlingtones performing at a community event.

Library staff and visitors tested out a desktop computer in 1992.
Young Arlington Heights residents enjoyed the library’s Kids’ World in 1994.

Meet “Those Book Ladies,” The Arlington Heights Moms Building Community by Reading

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE @THOSEBOOKLADIES?

We met at our sons’ school where we hit it off chatting about books, boy mom life, and the dream of owning a bookstore one day. On a walk through downtown Arlington Heights last February, we decided to start sharing our love of reading online by making an Instagram account. We had no idea how many great connections we’d make!

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO READ?

Kelly: On a lounge chair overlooking the Mediterranean Sea! But that’s just in my

dreams. On a daily basis, my favorite place to read is in my reading chair in the living room where it is somewhat peaceful, but I can still keep an eye and ear on my boys who are likely throwing some type of ball in the family room.

Colleen: Nothing tops beach or poolside reading! At home, it’s on a couch in my “quiet” living room where there’s a little bit less noise than the rest of the house. A significant portion of my reading is done with my ears at this stage of my life. We live by Lake Arlington so my favorite activity is listening to an audiobook and taking a lap around the lake.

WHAT BOOK MADE A BIG IMPACT ON YOU?

Kelly: The Great Gatsby - I loved it as a student, but then I had the opportunity to teach it to sophomores one year and just rediscovered it on a whole different level. The themes are still so relevant today! (Hot tip: Mansion Beach by Meg Mitchell Moore, published in 2025, is such a fun retelling/spin on The Great Gatsby - loved it!)

Colleen: The Nightingale is the first book to come to mind as an adult. I was so emotionally invested (and destroyed) by that story. If Kristin Hannah writes it, I’m reading it!

WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

Kelly: I’m currently listening to The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett as it is our ThoseBookLadies March BooKClub Pick! It is darkly comedic and even hilariously crude at some parts. Just having a great time with it, and highly recommend the audio format.

Colleen: I’m currently listening to Strangers, a memoir by Belle Burden that details her 21-year marriage crumbling overnight and not recognizing the man she married. A very hot read right now! I’m eyeball reading Kin by Tayari Jones, an Oprah’s Book Club pick. It’s told via alternating points of view by two motherless friends that grew up together and the differing paths they take. It’s great writing and is a book to savor.

TWO TIPS TO READ MORE (IF YOU WANT!):

1. Audiobooks: We listen to audiobooks while folding laundry, doing dishes, going for walks, and while in the car solo. I definitely read with my ears more than my eyes these days (and yes, audiobooks count as reading, but that’s a conversation for another time!).

2. After you finish a book, start a new one within 48 hours - then you are in the mode!

Follow @thosebookladies on Instagram for more!

Those Book Ladies!!! (L to R) Kelly Leahy & Colleen Coleman

A young girl looks at an iguana in its tank at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library in 1973. April begins a year of celebrations for the library’s centennial anniversary. Source: William Tolan/ Arlington Heights Memorial Library.

Beer on the Wall ROCCO’S REVIEW

In mid-February I asked my son Rocky and his two friends from high school, Hunter Johnson and Zach DeJohn, to grab a beer. Beer on the Wall in downtown Arlington Heights provided our crew with the “I’ve never tried this beer before” experience. While the beer selections were new to us, we felt right at home.

Before you walk in the door, you can see coolers gleaming from Dunton Avenue. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a collection of craft beers in one place quite like Beer on the Wall’s! The selection of IPAs from so many different regions and companies is impressive.

Beer on the Wall provided us with a warm winter vibe and, better yet, the place was bumping and alive on a Wednesday night. As we move into the warmer months, a great patio is available amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown Arlington Heights.

The staff was so very knowledgeable about the origin, flavor, and alcohol level of every brew. The staff showed extreme patience while we asked all of our questions at one time. The twenty selections that flow through the taps along with cans, bottles, wine, ciders, and even a selection of coffee grounds to take home for your morning caffeine fix are all beautifully displayed and available.

Food, while limited, was beefed up a bit in February as the team added a selection of tavern-style pizzas. We tried a few and they were very tasty and cooked to our crispy liking. Some snacks and pretzels are also available.

Beer on the Wall is not a pretentious place and that was the attraction for us. It was a place to kick back, enjoy, and catch up with friends, family or neighbors. We will be back soon.

A special thanks to Nick McClain for his expertise and cooperation with this review.

Beer on the Wall

2 N. Dunton Avenue

Arlington Heights

847-989-2651

Cheers to Beer on the Wall!
Rocky Smeriglio, Hunter Johnson and Zach DeJohn sample the selection at Beer on the Wall.
Beer on the Wall serves tavern-style pizza alongside delicious snacks.
The environment is warm and cozy no matter the weather outside.
Rocky and Rocco Smeriglio at Beer on the Wall in downtown Arlington Heights.

KOBRA HALL

FULTON GRACE REALTY

What’s the history and mission of your business? Both of my parents were entrenched in the creation and selling of homes. I inherited a robust work ethic and a profound understanding of real estate from my mother, an agent and brokerage owner, and my father, a general contractor. I have been licensed since 1991 and active in the real estate industry for 35 years. My husband and I built a life in Arlington Heights, moving here in 2002, raising two children and cherishing moments with our pets and through shared passions for music, dance, and theater.

What sets you apart from the rest?

Extensive experience has helped me through the ebb and flow of market cycles, equipping me with invaluable insights and a keen ability to navigate complex transactions. My approach is distinctively personal; I view each client’s journey as unique, committing myself to understanding their

individual needs and aspirations to deliver beyond expectations.

How does your business connect with the community? I have supported the Arlington Heights community through volunteer efforts over the years in the local schools, chamber, and businesses. I also volunteer for both the state and local real estate associations, giving back to the industry that has given so much to me.

What advice do you have for residents? When it comes to choosing a real estate professional, ask your close friends for referrals. Your real estate professional needs to be someone you know, like, and trust as they will be there for you during the largest transaction you will ever complete.

kobra@fultongrace.com

773-297-5261

kobrahall.com

“Kobra is very knowledgeable about Arlington Heights and has a lot of experience in real estate...She explained everything very thoroughly and made sure we understood what was going on every step of the way. She’s kind, empathetic, reassuring, and flexible. She always put us at ease. She’s incredibly easy to talk to and work with! She sold our house for our list price on day 6 of being on the market. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking to buy or sell!”

JODI Z.

Tina’s Easter Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek dish. Traditionally, it is prepared alongside lamb or pork roasts, avgolemono soup, and other time-honored dishes.

INGREDIENTS:

• (2) 10-oz. packages of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained

• 1 bunch Green onions, finely chopped

• 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill

• 2 bunches flat-leaf parsley, stems trimmed, finely chopped

• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

• 3 eggs

• 12 oz crumbled feta cheese

• 16-oz box of phyllo dough sheets

• Olive oil or butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees.

2. Thaw spinach packages and drain well.

3. Thaw phyllo dough and leave out at room temp in box.

4. Brown the chopped onion in one stick of butter. Once browned, allow to slightly cool and sit.

5. Take thawed and drained spinach and add that to the onions. Mix well.

6. Beat eggs and add to the spinach and onion mix.

7. Add feta cheese, dill, parsley and green onions to the spinach mix and mix well.

8. Phyllo preparation: carefully unroll the phyllo sheets and place them between two slightly damp paper towels.

9. In a 9x13 rectangular baking pan, coat the bottom and sides with cooking spray, melted butter or olive oil.

10. Line the baking dish with four to five sheets of phyllo, tucking them in to fit the pan. Brush with olive oil or melted butter in between each sheet.

11. Evenly spread the spinach and feta filling over the phyllo crust.

12. Repeat this later twice more, finishing with a phyllo layer.

13. Brush the top of the final layer of spanakopita with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with just a few drops of water, and tuck in the sides.

14. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the phyllo crust is crisp and golden brown. Remove from the oven and cut in squares.

Share your favorite recipe! Scan QR Code to submit!

“During Holy Week leading up to Orthodox Easter, many Greek families prepare a feast, including spanakopita, as part of the two dinners held on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. This tradition is believed to have originated in Greece over 400 years ago. I am half Greek and our Thea (Aunt) Demetra taught my mother how to make this dish. My mother passed the recipe down to me. It is a delicious, tasty tradition that our family enjoys!” - Tina

GILBERT FAMILY! Say Hello to The

Colin, Lisa, Henry, William and George Gilbert at an Arlington Heights Cardinals baseball game.

How long have you lived in Arlington Heights? Colin and Lisa are Hersey graduates, class of 1998. We lived in Chicago for graduate school and moved back to Arlington Heights in 2008. Our families and ties to the community brought us back home.

How did you meet? We met in the theatre program at John Hersey High School sophomore year. We both were auditioning for a show.

What university did you attend? Colin attended the University of Illinois, where he received an LAS degree in speech communication with a minor in theatre and English, and graduated from Chicago Kent College of Law in 2005. Lisa attended Indiana University and earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching. She received her masters in not-for-profit management from Columbia College in Chicago.

What are your professions? Colin is a founding partner at a local law firm. Lisa works with the Illinois Restaurant Association.

Tell us about your kids. Henry is at Thomas Middle School and William and George attend Patton Elementary. They are all heavily involved with youth athletics. Henry is on the Thomas basketball team and plays baseball for the Arlington Cardinals. He also is a member of the AAU Fundamental University basketball team out of Niles. He was also a member of the Junior PGA team representing

Old Orchard Country Club. William plays both Cardinals basketball and baseball, as well as Dawgs football. George plays AHYAA baseball and AHYBA basketball.

What are your favorite places to visit around the community? Jimmy D’s, Johnnies Beef, The Palm Court, Gerrys Café, and all of the wonderful park district facilities. My kids are very active in the youth sports community.

How does your family contribute to fostering a sense of community spirit in Arlington Heights? Colin is a Village Trustee, a board member for both Arlington Heights Youth Athletic Association and the Hersey Youth Feeder program, and director of Cardinals Travel Baseball. In 2025, Colin was named Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce’s “Community Leader of the Year.” Lisa is a former board member for the Metropolis Theatre, and a current member of the Metropolis Centre for the Performing Arts gala committee.

What’s your favorite part of living in Arlington Heights? We’ve been a part of this community in so many ways, and for so long, it’s hard to pick just one moment. We love the sense of community and civic pride here. Spending Sundays together as a young family at Arlington Park will be something we always remember.

Family members: Colin and Lisa Gilbert, and sons Henry (14) and twins William (11) and George (11)
The Gilbert family on vacation at the Grand Canyon.
The Gilbert family at a community block party.
The Gilbert family visits Kams at Colin’s alma mater, the University of Illinois.

Sophie Wery

What is your name and what school do you attend? My name is Sophie Wery and I am a freshman at Rolling Meadows High School.

What sports do you play? I’ve played volleyball and swam competitively since fourth grade. I play water polo, which I started in fifth grade. I’ve also competed in track & field since seventh grade.

What inspired you to get started with your chosen sports? I was inspired to start volleyball by my mom, who played when she was younger. I started swim lessons when I was just six months old and found a love for the sport, and my dad inspired me to try water polo. My sixth grade social studies teacher, Mr. Stordahl, is also the track coach at South Middle School, and he inspired me to start track & field.

What do you enjoy most about your favorite sports? My favorite part of playing any sport is the rush you feel when you make a great play, swim a good time, or clear a high height and everyone around you starts cheering.

What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment was breaking the Arlington Muskies swim team all-time record in the 50 freestyle. I could not have done that without my amazing coaches and teammates who I have been lucky enough to work with since I started competitively swimming. I was also very proud to win the 2025 IESA sectionals in high jump and long jump while tying the South Middle School high jump record and setting a new school record in long jump. I have to thank all the coaches at

South who believed in me and gave me the confidence I needed.

Who is someone you admire? now, there are so many women in sports to admire, like Katie Ledecky and Andi Jackson. They are both incredible athletes who have inspired me to keep trying no matter the circumstances.

Beyond sports, what do you like to do? One of my favorite things to do is junior coaching younger age groups at my swim team. I also really love traveling with my family.

MABEL THE CHIHUAHUA

How long has your family lived in Arlington Heights? Since 2021. There is a real sense of community. When you need help, there is always someone available to assist.

Tell us about your pet. Mabel is a 7-year-old chihuahua. She joined our family in September 2025. She is a rescue and survived a hoarding house that was used for breeding.

Does your pet have any unique talents? She recently was accepted into the Animal Assisted Therapy program at Northwest Community Hospital. We are excited to make some days brighter. She loves humans despite being failed by them in the past.

Does your pet have any favorite treats? She has no teeth, so anything liquified. She does try to steal the chicken from our other dogs.

Tell us about your favorite memory with your pet. Every day with Mabel is special. She has such a special aura and I love that she can change minds about

the breed. She is pure love. I also hope that people see a dog like her and choose to adopt. Hundreds of dogs and cats are being euthanized in Chicagoland every day because there is no more space in animal controls. Perfectly healthy, familyfriendly dogs who are just out of time. It is really heartbreaking.

Are there any local businesses or parks your pet particularly enjoys visiting? Passero, and Al Fresco!

Share your Precious Pet! Scan QR Code to submit!

Your Home is Your Greatest Asset

Property values and equity can be overwhelming for a person who is unfamiliar with how they work. These are two concepts that are important to know for estate planning. Homeowners should understand what they mean and how they apply to them.

Equity is an asset that is the value of the property minus any outstanding loan amounts. For example, if a home’s fair market value is $300,000 and the owner owes $100,000, the equity is $200,000.

The equity in one’s home is often one of an individual’s largest assets, and planning for it should be done to ensure that it passes as the owner wants it to. Home equity loans have grown in popularity. However, there are points that homeowners should be aware of if they wish to secure a loan on home equity. If the homeowner is unsure about going into such an agreement, they should contact proper legal

In the event that a homeowner seeks to take out a home equity loan, there are certain tasks that they should and

Read all documents carefully, especially

Know the term of the loan, and when it is due in full. Be informed of any extra fees and charges that

Agree to any equity loans you don’t understand.

Sign over any property rights that aren’t required under the loan.

Home equity is complex and making a wrong decision when taking a

If

equity loan can have detrimental, long-term effects.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook