HM2015FEB

KEVIN SIMPSON

Hinsdale deputy police chief a conduit between village and local non-profits

+

BURR RIDGE

Historic Bridewell Prison Farm

BRIDAL CELEBRATIONS GUIDE

Wedding trends for 2015

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 1

2 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Enhance eyebrows. Lip liner. Top & Bottom eyeliner. Full lip tinting. Camouflage. Beauty mark. Areola tattooing. Eyelash extensions. Laser hair removal. Facials. Organic Peels. Acne Treatments.

FREE models needed for permanent makeup and microblading conference sponsoring Branko Babic. Call us today at 630-568-3862 for more information.

Permanent Makeup by Bellasense. Welcome to Beautiful You!

At Bellasense meet our licensed Permanent Cosmetic Specialists and Professionals to give you a look you’ll enjoy for years to come. Our micropigmentologists are trained in Bloodborne Pathogens and Infection Control for tattooing. Also, certified in Paramedical procedures and eyelash extensions.

The Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine

6823 Kingery Hwy Willowbrook, IL p (630) 568-3862 c (630) 456-6330 Call for a FREE Consultation

Wasan Amra

Micropigmentologist

www.BellaSense.com 4 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Wasan is trained in Bloodborne pathogens and infection control for tattooing. In addition, she is certified in paramedical procedures, eyelash extensions and is a certified aesthetic consultant. Wasan is always searching for the most advanced equipment, high quality pigments and innovative techniques for the best outcome.

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 5

Publisher Letter

I

Celebrating daughters today and tomorrow

n this issue, we proudly feature Hinsdale deputy police chief Kevin Simpson, who has served the Hinsdale community as an officer for more than 20 years. Simpson’s occupation is one of the more noble and selfless occupations in our society, and he goes beyond his job by giving back to the community through volunteer involvement in the HinsdaleClarendon Hills Rotary Club and HCS Family Services. You will read about how Simpson’s efforts have helped bring the village closer to two of its local organizations. Hinsdale Magazine’s Cydney Cape covers all things “wedding” in our February issue. From the invitations to the food to the KEVIN SIMPSON bridal gown, we hope you find + these pages useful when planning BURR RIDGE your special day. Long before the BRIDAL CELEBRATIONS bride begins planning her wedding GUIDE day, her parents’ role in her life is very significant. On Saturday, Feb. 21, the Robert Crown Center for Health Education will present “Happy to Be Me!” which will be a celebration for girls and the important women in their lives. Then, please read Jim Fannin’s “Are you raising a world-class decision-maker?” Fannin asks the important questions: How do I train my child to be a great decision-maker before the all-powerful peer group takes over? Last month, Hinsdale Magazine visited the Angel Harvey Infant Welfare Society Health Center in the Logan Square neighborhood on Chicago’s Northwest Side. We learned about what the clinic does on a daily basis, as well as how many patients it sees annually. The Hinsdale chapter of the IWS Auxiliary is one of 13 in the Chicago area that provides

Hinsdale deputy police chief a conduit between village and local non-profits

Historic Bridewell Prison Farm

Wedding trends for 2015

funding so that the clinic can serve uninsured and underinsured patients. On p. 12, you’ll learn more about the Hinsdale chapter’s upcoming Tablescapes event and the local volunteers that help make it come together. We hope to see you on March 15 for the annual event at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort. As always, in Community Scene we highlight a number of local charities and organizations, including the Hinsdale auxiliary of Children’s Home + Aid, the Newcomers & Neighbors of the Greater Hinsdale area, and the Hinsdale Assembly Hinsdale Magazine is currently working on original articles on the people and organizations that are of interest to you, and this month, we continue our three-part series on Burr Ridge by taking a closer look at the village center property. Today, this property is home to the Burr Ridge Village Center, but years ago, it was the site of a prison farm owned by the City of Chicago! In the late 1960s, Chicago mayor Richard J. Daley moved to build low- to moderate-income housing on the property, which generated a stir in the village. Print managing editor Mike Ellis takes you through the fate of the mayor’s plans on p. 16. Remember to send us an email to News@ hinsdale60521.com to be one of the first to receive the March issue and every monthly edition of Hinsdale Magazine Digital for $19.95 per year. You will also have access to all the past year’s issues right in your inbox! Go to www.hinsdale60521.com and become one of our 650 members today, and we will look forward to receiving your comments and suggestions. www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 1

Enjoy the stories, Scott Jonlich, Founder & Publisher Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. sjonlich@hinsdale60521.com 6 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

all things

outdoor Enhance your outdoor living space with our Lawn Maintenance, Lighting, Irrigation and Outdoor Furniture. Give your property an update with our Design / Build Services. Call now to schedule a free, expert consultation for a customized space to uniquely match your lifestyle. Wingren Landscape offers complete services for ‘All things outdoor’. Maintenance Services • Hardscapes • Lighting • Water & Fire Features Irrigation • Outdoor Kitchens • Furniture • Landscape Design

630 759 8100 | www.wingrenlandscape.com

follow us on Facebook www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 7

FEBRUARY

2015

features

10

COVER STORY

Hinsdale deputy police chief Kevin Simpson

18

SPOTLIGHT

Burr Ridge Series Part II: Bridewell

26

COMMUNITY SCENE

Hinsdale Assembly Debutante Ball Newcomers & Neighbors Children’s Home + Aid Sherry Party Band Together Gift of Season

12

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Scott Jonlich

PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

Mike Ellis

CREATIVE DEPARTMENT

Cheryl Chrzanowski Julia Sinogeikina COLUMNISTS

Jim Doehring Jim Fannin Errol Janusz Dan Meyer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cydney Cape Kristin Pedicini

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kyle Hampson Nancy Ripani

ADVERTISING SALES

Sarah Chase Karen Hood Renee Lawrence

30

12 INSIDE 60521

Infant Welfare Society of Chicago

30 CELEBRATIONS GUIDE

The hottest trends for the 2015 wedding season

38 GIVING BACK

Monroe Elementary School outreach event

46 INSIDE 60521

The Robert Crown Center for Health Education

52 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

“Valentine’s Day surf and turf ” by Jim Doehring

60 TECH KNOW

“Top tech-gadgets for 2015” by Errol Janusz

62 PEAK PERFORMANCE

“Are you raising a world-class decision-maker?” by Jim Fannin

66 SPIRITUAL INSIGHT

“The green-eyed monster” by Dan Meyer Cover photo by Kyle Hampson

26

Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. | 38 Blaine Street | Downtown Hinsdale, IL 60521 630-655-3400 | FAX: 630-622-1300 | E-MAIL: advertise@Hinsdale60521.com

PHONE:

Hinsdale Magazine is mailed to 18,364 homes and businesses. THE ADVERTISEMENTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, LOGOS, AND ANY OTHER CONTENT INSIDE THIS PUBLICATION ARE NOT THE OPINIONS OF HINSDALE MAGAZINE, INC., UNLESS SPECIFIED. THIS MAGAZINE MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED IN ANY WAY, INCLUDING ADS DESIGNED BY OUR GRAPHIC STAFF, AND REMAIN THE PROPERTY OF HINSDALE MAGAZINE, INC.

Photos by Kyle Hampson

Deputy chief Kevin Simpson at the Hinsdale Police Department

Extending

Hinsdale deputy police chief a conduit between village and local non-profits BY MIKE ELLIS

K

evin Simpson has served the Village of Hinsdale as a police officer for more than a quarter-century, spanning his entire career in law enforcement to date. But over the past couple of years, he’s found another way to serve the community as a board member for two local organizations: HCS Family Services and the HinsdaleClarendon Hills Rotary Club. Simpson started his career with the Hinsdale Police Department in January 1989 as a patrolman. Growing up in west suburban Bolingbrook, Simpson said he believes his upbringing contributed to his decision to pursue a career in law enforcement, as well as his passion for volunteering.

10 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

“I think that the work ethic that my parents instilled upon me, and the Catholic background that [my siblings and I] had, was always centered around helping others and [putting] family first,” Simpson said. “A lot of that translated into the profession that I’m in now.” After working as a patrolman for about four years, Simpson worked in investigations and other various capacities within the department before becoming deputy chief in 2003. He said from early on in his career, he discovered that the Hinsdale community afforded a special environment in which to work. “This is a great community to work in,” Simpson said. “I learned very early on that this community is one that thrives upon the relationships that are

built within the community—whether it’s government, whether it’s business, whether it’s personal.” Simpson said the positive relationship that he’s observed between the police department and the community distinguishes Hinsdale from many other towns. “I can’t say enough about the relationships that have been developed [in this community],” Simpson said. “It’s across the board; it’s not just me and my involvement in HCS or the Rotary [club]. It’s our juvenile officer Mike Coughlin involved in D.A.R.E., and everything he does for the kids in the community and the teenagers in the community—our SRO Mark Keller for all his involvement [at Hinsdale Central].

Cover Story

“What we’ve learned is that building those relationships and that respect equates into trust; there’s nothing more important to a relationship with a community and a police department than trust.”

Joining the Rotary club

Almost three years ago, Simpson branched out from the HPD when he became a member of the HinsdaleClarendon Hills Rotary Club. He said he was approached by Charlie Hartley and Bob Kramer, both Rotarians, whom he formerly worked with on bike rodeos at area schools. The Rotary club meets on a weekly basis, and is not only comprised of active residents and local business owners, but also community leaders that hail from a variety of organizations, such as District 86 superintendent Dr. Bruce Law and The Community House executive director Jeni Fabian. “It gives you a great opportunity to network,” Simpson said. Simpson currently serves as the Rotary club’s sergeant at arms, acting as a liaison for the police department. He said being a Rotarian enables him to better educate the community about the functions of the HPD, while also allowing him to listen to residents’ concerns and feedback.

Simpson at the Hinsdale food pantry in the basement of the Memorial Building

Helping others

Simpson said one of the first activities he performed as a Rotarian was volunteering at the mobile food pantry in unincorporated Willowbrook, conducted monthly by HCS Family Services. Based out of the Memorial Building in downtown Hinsdale, HCS Family Services serves over 4,500 families in need in southeast DuPage County and western Cook County. The non-profit operates a food pantry in the basement of the building on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, as well as a monthly mobile pantry in a high-need community in Willowbrook. “I volunteered and distributed food there one night, and realized how important that function was, and got a lot of enjoyment out of it,” Simpson said. After contributing to the pantry several more times, Simpson met Deb Baker, associate director of HCS Family Services, who ultimately approached the deputy chief to become a board member. Conducting some research, Simpson said he decided to come onboard after learning more about the assortment of services HCS performs for those in need. “He had a personal desire to get involved,” Baker said. “He believed in the mission.” Baker said Simpson now coordinates the mobile food pantry on a monthly basis, and has been integral in encouraging Hinsdale police officers and firefighters to volunteer at the pantry and support HCS Family Services. “We didn’t really have a relationship with the fire department or police department,” she said, “and because Kevin’s introduced us to them, they volunteer for us, they fundraise for us.” Baker said this past March, the police and fire departments sponsored the mobile food pantry, splitting the $1,000 cost. They also made HCS Family Services the beneficiary of their annual softball tournament this September, and raised more than $5,000. As much as he’s enjoyed linking

the village and HCS Family Services, for Simpson, it all starts with the basic concept of helping others. “At the end of the day, you feel good that you’ve helped people out— that you’ve assisted in distributing the food,” he said. “It kind of puts things in perspective, and it makes you realize sometimes how lucky we are.”

Volunteer commitment

With a daughter who recently graduated from college and a son currently in college, Simpson said he and his wife have had more time on their hands of late, thus affording him additional opportunities to volunteer with HCS and the Rotary club. “We have more time to occupy, and I think it’s best served helping other people,” he said. Simpson said he plans on continuing his volunteer efforts even after he finishes his career at the department. According to Baker, his services will be welcomed by HCS, which has seen its food need continue to rise over the past few years. Baker said about 25,000 shopping carts were rolled out of the Hinsdale food pantry last year, and that HCS is now serving 35 to 50 families each day. “We bring in deliveries seven days a week now, to be able to keep up with that demand,” she said. Whether it’s apprehending a burglar or providing food for a family in need, Simpson continues to be motivated by an impulse to assist those around him. “The bottom line is helping other people,” he said. “That’s why I got in this job;—it’s the way I was raised; it’s the way I raised my kids, and I think there has to be that healthy balance between your professional life and the time that you give towards others.” n For more information about HCS Family Services, visit www.hcsfamilyservices.org. To learn more about the HinsdaleClarendon Hills Rotary Club, visit www.hinsdalerotary.org.

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 11

Inside 60521

MISSION POSSIBLE Fundraising presents a challenge for IWS—but not an impossible one.

I

BY MIKE ELLIS

n the suburbs, medical care is something that is often taken for granted, its importance notwithstanding. Streets abound with medical clinics and dental offices, large and small. But in many city neighborhoods with higher population densities and significantly lower median income levels, it can be doubly more difficult for families to access quality medical care. Founded in 1911, the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago (IWS) has been attending to the medical needs of women and children for over a century. Situated at 3600 W. Fullerton Ave. in the Logan Square neighborhood, the Angel Harvey Infant Welfare Center Health Center is a modern facility that provides comprehensive medical care to thousands of patients, predominantly from Chicago. Michelle Di Benedetto, vice president of institutional advancement for IWS, said last year, the center serviced more than 8,000 patients under the age of 19, in addition to adult mothers in the pre-natal and well-women units. Offering medical and dental care in the same facility, Di Benedetto said IWS prides itself on the comprehensive, consolidated services it offers patients. During our visit to the clinic, Di Benedetto shared an example of a woman who sought medical treatment for pain in her jaw. The treating physician sent the woman downstairs to the dental clinic, where she had what turned out to be a dental complication addressed during the same visit. “One of the things that really stands out from this organization is that there’s a sense of comprehensive care,” Di Benedetto said. “There’s a lot of interaction between the departments. You have the optometrist who is connecting and coordinating with the providers as it relates to diabetes. ...

Photos by Kyle Hampson

Infant Welfare Society of Chicago CEO Robin McGinnis and vice president of institutional advancement Michelle Di Benedetto with Hinsdale chapter members Debi Kisluk, Amy Bailey and Megan McCleary

“The fact that we are both a medical and a dental home, [we’re] able to do a lot of great collaboration.” CEO Robin McGinnis said about 96 percent of clinic patients identify themselves as Hispanic, and come from throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, with most hailing from the nearby Logan Square, Humboldt Park and Avondale neighborhoods. Consequently, all IWS services are provided in English and Spanish by bilingual medical providers and staff. “The providers and practitioners are bilingual—many of them are bicultural,” Di Benedetto said. “It’s culturallycompetent care.” The medical clinic is on the second floor of the 45,000-square-foot facility; medical staff are both full-time and part-time. Di Benedetto said the clinic features 12 pediatric exam rooms, as well as eight well-women exam rooms. Continued on page 14

12 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

2015 The Year of The Smile

Dr. Weller Will Make your Dream Smile a Reality COMPLIMENTARy CONSULTATIONS AND SECOND OPINIONS

WELLER DENTAL

ADULT COMPREHENSIVE CARE COSMETIC | GENERAL | IMPLANT | RESTORATIVE

WellerDental.com

Hinsdale | 920 n. York Road | (630) 654-2900 CHiCago | 1050 n. state street | (312) 654-0606

Dr. Jeffrey Weller

Licensed as a General Dentist in the State of Illinois

Inside 60521 Continued from page 12

Di Benedetto said one of the “unique” elements of IWS’s medical care services is its optometry department. In the last fiscal year, she said the clinic reported more than 4,500 visits to its two optometry suites. Di Benedetto said center staff work to educate their patients as to why eye care is important. “We all can see fine-motor skills in children...but vision is not as obvious,” said Dr. Linda Weil, who works at IWS 30 hours per week. “Vision is so important; we use it from birth through adulthood, because it helps guide us in everything that we do. Most of the eye conditions that infants have, there are no symptoms for.” Dr. Weil said two of the conditions she diagnoses frequently at the clinic are farsightedness and astigmatism, both of which are common in the Hispanic community. Pre-natal and well-women care are also offered on the second floor. McGinnis said center staff perform about 300 deliveries per year, working closely with nearby Saint Mary of Nazareth and Swedish Covenant Hospitals. Dental care is provided on the first floor. Di Benedetto said IWS sees about 6,000 dental patients per year, having recently opened its doors for women in addition to children. “Now we’re able to see women as well,” she said, “which is really nice, because a lot of them haven’t had dental care in a long time.” McGinnis said research from Chicago Public Schools shows that dental-related problems are a leading cause of children missing school. She said kids, lacking the means to access the manifold suburban dental offices, will oftentimes appear with ten to 12 cavities for initial dental examinations. Thus, McGinnis said IWS dental practitioners not only work to perform the requisite repairs on the teeth they examine, but also provide critical dental tips for mothers to prevent or limit cavities in their children’s teeth.

A HELPING HAND

Di Benedetto and McGinnis said IWS does not turn

away patients, but many of those serviced are uninsured or underinsured. Without the aid of the Auxiliary—a group of about 750 Chicagoland women subdivided into 13 chapters that fundraise for IWS—, McGinnis said it would be impossible for the clinic to operate. “Without their support, there is no way we could do these services,” McGinnis said. Three of the 13 auxiliary chapters are located in the greater Hinsdale area: Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills and Oak Brook. The Angel Harvey center itself, a converted bank building that is now nine years old, was funded largely through a capital campaign conducted by the Auxiliary that raised roughly $3 million for IWS. One component of services IWS supplies that McGinnis said would not continue without the Auxiliary’s aid is its child development program. Through this program, IWS medical practitioners attempt to detect potential medical issues at an early stage through early-childhood screenings. “The support that we get from the auxiliary really pays for the early childhood and intervention, because that’s not a billable service,” McGinnis said. “Part of what their fundraising does for us is, we can provide a full, comprehensive package for every child that comes in here.” With an approximately five-year delay in detecting autism spectrum disorders in the Hispanic community, McGinnis said early and primary intervention—a key component of IWS’s mission—is all the more important.

SWEET ST.

Next month, the Hinsdale chapter of the Auxiliary will host its annual Tablescapes benefit to support IWS at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills resort at Midwest Road and 35th Street. The theme of this year’s Tablescapes—the Hinsdale chapter’s largest fundraiser—is “Sweet St.,” with delectable

Photos by Kyle Hampson

Left: An exam room at the Angel Harvey health center in Chicago; Right: Nurse manager Jennifer Stagl Morrison

14 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Inside 60521

pastries and sweets being showcased at each of seven member tables. “Every table is based on a confection, whether it’s pies or it’s cakes or it’s mixology cocktails,” chapter president Amy Bailey said, adding that all of the tables will be available for raffle. Tablescapes benefit chairperson Debi Kisluk said it will be an “interactive experience.” The event will also feature auction items, highlighted by a ski or golf package to Banff, Alberta, Canada, with the winner having the option to select the package of his or her choice. Bailey said other prizes will include tickets to Chicago sporting events, restaurant packages and a Hyatt resort experience in Austin, Texas. “There’s a wide variety for people to bid on,” she said. Bailey said the chapter anticipates 400 to 500 attendees at “Sweet St.,” despite the fact that the organization has only 42 members. “People wear a lot of hats to pull this off,” she said. “The event has a lot of components; it’s a really exciting day. The ladies in the auxiliary all work really hard to make this happen. “I know the first time I went to Tablescapes, I couldn’t believe how small the auxiliary was, based on the magnitude of the event and the amount of funds that they raised.”

“I am committed to meeting my clients needs by thoughtfully listening to them and delivering service that exceeds their expectations.”

Claudia Parillo 630.816.5927 cparrillo@koenigrubloff.com

35 S Washington Street

|

Hinsdale, IL

Bailey said the group intentionally keeps its membership at around 40 so it can continue to meet in people’s homes. Last year, the Hinsdale chapter presented IWS with a $77,000 check to support its programs and services. Bailey said the goal is to meet or exceed that level at this year’s Tablescapes. Hinsdale chapter publicity coordinator Megan McCleary said all funds raised will help to “bridge the gap” for those seeking services at the Angel Harvey center. “These are funds that [IWS] relies on on an annual basis to run their operation,” McCleary said. n “Sweet St.” will be held at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills resort on March 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch will be served. Tickets are available for $85, and may be purchased at www.hinsdaletablescapes.com. For more information about the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago, visit www. infantwelfaresociety.org.

Tina Porterfield 630.780.1234 tina@porterfield.com

Anna Fiascone

630.336.1883 afiascone@koenigrubloff.com

35 S Washington Street

|

Hinsdale, IL

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 15

16 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 17

BURR

PART II: BRIDEWELL

RIDGE

Photo by Guy Franzese

M

A look inside of the Bridewell Prison Farm facility that once occupied the property east of County Line Road south of Interstate 55

Hinsdale Magazine continues its survey of Burr Ridge by examining the village center property, which was formerly the site of a prison farm— as well as a contentious project that could have dramatically altered the landscape of the area at the end of the

1960s.

BY MIKE ELLIS

Many area residents have driven down County Line Road past Interstate

55 to frequent the Burr Ridge Village Center. But aside from longtime west suburbanites, many people may not be aware that this property housed criminals in the early years of the village, and for several decades prior to that.

18 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Sources are not firmly agreed upon when the Bridewell Prison Farm commenced operation; one fixes the opening date as early as 1917 (Encyclopedia of Chicago), while another places it in 1929 (Chicago Tribune, April 27, 1969). The farm property was owned by the City of Chicago. Historically, most of the inmates at the Bridewell

Spotlight

farm were drunkards, not violent criminals. According to the In 1957, while the Bridewell Prison Farm was still in Chicago Sun-Times, it held anywhere from 50 to 100 prisoners operation, a small village was incorporated to the immediate in the late 1960s. west called Harvester. Its population was roughly 300, and it Leonard Ruzak, who served as village president of Burr Ridge spanned only 190 acres. from 1968 to 1981, said he recalls the farm being operational “At that time, there were no regulations to what the size had when he settled in what is now Burr Ridge in the early 1950s. to be in order to form a village,” Ruzak said, “and that’s why we “Everything was sort of set back, and you couldn’t see were successful.” anything from County Line Road,” Ruzak said. “[The inmates] In those days, Ruzak said you could purchase an acre of weren’t that visible.” land for about $2,000—but the village lacked many of the Dolores Cizek of La Grange, a former amenities and conveniences residents Burr Ridge trustee, lived adjacent to the Burr Ridge, Hinsdale and other west “In those days, Ruzak of prison farm when she and her husband suburban communities enjoy today. He said you could purchase said homeowners used septic tanks, as there settled on the Cook County side of County Line Road in 1956. Cizek said the farm an acre of land for was no indoor plumbing, and that streets supplied the Cook County jail with its were all gravel, recounting a time when a about $2,000.” vegetables. local women’s club raised enough money to Cizek remembered an instance when have a stoplight installed at County Line a prisoner escaped from the farm—and Road and old U.S. Rte. 66. her father-in-law, donning a loose-fitting denim jacket, was “The only thing we had was electric,” Ruzak said. “I don’t curiously mistaken for the fugitive. know how many miles we had to go for a grocery store.” “After this person had escaped, [city officials] sent out a In 1962, residents petitioned to change the name of the helicopter,” Cizek said, “and the helicopter almost landed on village from Harvester—which was in all probability a homage our pasture, because they thought my father-in-law was the to the International Harvester Company, which owned several escaped prisoner.” hundred acres of property nearby—to Burr Ridge. Ruzak said Continued on page 20

Gold and Stainless Steel with Topaz Gemstones

SOLARIS

J E W E L RY

9 E. First Street | Hinsdale www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 19

Spotlight Continued from page 19

In 1969, Chicago mayor Richard J. Daley spearheaded a plan to sell the Bridewell Prison Farm and convert the property— then owned by the city— into an abundance of low- and moderate-income housing.

Photo by Guy Franzese

residents settled on “Burr Ridge” due to “There was a time [when] the state the manifold burr oak trees in the village. was going to take over all the prisons,” Annexing more property to the north said Ruzak, who was village president in about the same time, Burr Ridge swelled 1969. “Mayor Daley said that he [was] to over 1,500 acres by 1965, and had a not going to give this property to the population of about 800 (source: The state. So, he closed up this jail here and Doings). sold the property.” Ruzak, who served as a trustee before The city hoped to sell off 297.5 b e c o m i n g acres to the village president Chicago Dwellings in 1968, said “There was a time [when] A s s o c i a t i o n in these early (CDA), a nonthe state was going to take profit developer days, whether or not the that specialized in over all the prisons.” village should moderate-income grant liquor housing, such as licenses was among its major issues. He Midway Gardens on the South Side. said Hinsdale was a dry village, and that Daley called the plan “one of the first many in Burr Ridge sought to see their integrated housing projects outside the village pursue the same course. city in the nation” (source: Chicago Sun “People were up in arms,” Ruzak Times, April 1969). said. “Some of my neighbors wouldn’t In a contentious meeting that saw talk to me, because I was in favor of one alderman walk out, the Chicago having liquor.” City Council approved an auction sale of the Bridewell property by a 35 to 7 vote. Mayor Daley and the housing project That June, the CDA submitted a bid of In 1969, Chicago mayor Richard $3.63 million, upwards of $1 million J. Daley spearheaded a plan to sell the more than the second-place bid of Oak Bridewell Prison Farm and convert the Brook-based I.C. Harbour Construction property—then owned by the city—into Co. But Irvin Harbour, who co-owned an abundance of low- and moderateI.C. Harbour Construction with Oak income housing. Brook founder Paul Butler, contended

20 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

that his company’s bid was actually the highest, because the CDA was planning to commit $505,000 in advance, while paying the remaining more than $3 million within five years’ completion of the project (sources: Chicago Tribune, June 24, 1969; Chicago Daily News, June 25, 1969). Having secured the bid, the CDA forged ahead with developing a concept for housing on the property. While adjacent Burr Ridge—with a population of 1,500 in 1969—was essentially a rural village, with a number of properties sitting on acre parcels, the CDA envisioned a housing project containing roughly 3,000 families for the 297.5acre property. A 1969 Tribune editorial indicated that the project would add about 1,500 students to Lyons Township High School in La Grange. In addition, Ruzak told the SunTimes in 1969 that homes in Burr Ridge ranged from $30,000 to $190,000; but the Suburban Trib reported that the housing the CDA was proposing would be valued between $15,000 and $40,000. From the outset, the project faced strong opposition from multiple quarters. Concerns included lowering the quality of public schools, water and sewer issues,

Spotlight

increased and possibly unsupportable traffic on County Line Road, and the possibility of decreased property values (source: Suburban Life, April 1969). “There was a lot of opposition to it out in Burr Ridge,” Cizek said. Meanwhile, some advocates for the poor also opposed the concept of constructing such housing in Burr Ridge due to a lack of adequate public transportation and scarcity of industry in the vicinity. A DePaul University sociology professor told the Sun-Times he felt the proposal was a “shoddy” relocation effort, stating that public transportation “would be indispensable for lower-income families.” Officials from the Village of Burr Ridge, as well as local townships and school boards, looked into legal means of opposition. Joined by the mayor of Willow Springs and officials from Lyons and Downers Grove Townships, Ruzak and the village examined the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the city after the auction sale was completed (source: Chicago Tribune, April 27, 1969). “I don’t think anyone thought that [the residents] would win,” Cizek said. “Chicago, Daley—his mode of operation was to come in and bulldoze.” But standing opposed to Mayor Daley was not done without confidence in those days. Widely regarded as one of

the nation’s most powerful people during his tenure as mayor, Daley wielded strong influence in the city, the suburbs and within the Democratic Party nationwide. Writing for The New York Times, Seth King called Daley the “decisive force” in John F. Kennedy’s presidential nomination and election in 1960. And as longtime Chicagoans may recall, 1969 was just a year after the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, filled with rioting, upheaval—and Daley’s now-famous gesture to cut the microphone as Sen. Abraham Ribicoff accused the city of “gestapo tactics” against protesters to maintain order in the streets of Chicago. “He certainly was a typical boss,” said Cizek, who attended the 1968 convention. “If the city council didn’t vote the way he wanted—if some person might have the temerity to vote ‘no,’ he was eventually punished. ... Daley just had iron-fisted control. That’s really the only way you can describe it.” A lawsuit was eventually filed against the city in October 1970—but not by the Village of Burr Ridge. Republican Floyd Fulle, an embattled Cook County commissioner who would serve jail time later that decade, filed suit, along with Cook County sheriff Joseph Woods and John Burns of Chicago. Fulle believed that the city had no right to sell the property, because it formed a part of the Cook County Department of Correction. Meanwhile, on the local level, attention shifted to acquiring Continued on page 22

Sterling Silver with Natural Ruby, Emerald, and Sapphire

SOLARIS

J E W E L RY

9 E. First Street | Hinsdale www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 21

Spotlight Continued from page 21

The Burr Ridge Village Center contains more than 195,000 square feet of restaurants retail space, while also featuring almost 200 luxury residential condominiums, as well as additional office condos.

Photo courtesty of Burr Ridge Village Center

the Bridewell property through annexation. To the east of Burr Ridge and the prison farm sat Pleasantdale, and active local residents from both communities made a strong push to annex unincorporated Pleasantdale west of Wolf Road into Burr Ridge. This annexation would not only give Burr Ridge a significant amount of new land, but was more importantly a legal way to take control of the Bridewell property as well. “One of the reasons why it was so attractive for each village to incorporate us was that we surrounded the farm,” said Jack Schaus, a Burr Ridge resident and former president of the Pleasantdale Civic Association. “That’s a feather in any village’s cap.” “Our biggest concern was the annexation of that penal farm,” Ruzak said. “Our attorney got the legal documents of who owned the property all around the penal farm, and with a combination of the work with people in Pleasantdale, and the village officials, we went on Saturdays and Sundays, contacted all these people, and got their permission that they would annex to the Village of Burr Ridge. We surrounded that penal farm.” A petition was required to annex unincorporated Pleasantdale and secure the prison farm property. In order to be successful, more than 50 percent of voters, 50 percent of property owners and the owners of more than 50 percent of the 880 acres in question needed to sign the petition. This careful distinction proved troublesome to the Citizens Representation Committee, which spearheaded the annexation movement. Led by the late Eldon Dumroese, this committee

22 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

had gathered the signatures of more than 80 percent of voters and property owners by January 1970—but it remained 15 to 20 acres of land short for some time. “We wanted to expand, and we knew that this area [was] going to be an extremely important area eventually, because of the Tri-State, County Line Road, I-55,” Ruzak said. “It’s ideal, and the potential is here. You can see what we’ve already done, but you can see in the future that this is going to be a cornerstone, because of the location.” A neighbor of Dumroese’s in unincorporated Pleasantdale, Cizek recalled him as a man of “integrity” who was vital to the movement to annex Pleasantdale, and remained active in Burr Ridge as the chairman of the plan commission. “He was very much interested in the village,” she said. “He was...really a very decent person. Integrity—all the things you want with someone who is active in a municipality.”

The plan fails

As Pleasantdale prepared to join Burr Ridge, the papers reported that communication between the CDA and local civic organizations stalled. Ultimately, the CDA’s plans were thwarted with barely a whimper. Ruzak and Cizek said transportation—an early reason for opposition to the plan on both sides—proved to be its downfall. “They just dropped it after they realized that there was no transportation,” Ruzak said.

According to Suburban Life, the City of Chicago eventually sold the Bridwell property to Emro Land Co., the real estate division of Marathon Oil, for $6.7 million in 1980. Bud Coglianese, who served as village president from 1981 to 1989, and again from 1993 to 1997, said Emro planned to develop a “multi-use project,” coming in with “pretty strong demands” that included 12-story buildings. Coglianese said a number of residents took exception with Emro’s aspirations. “Basically, the residents here didn’t want anything,” he said. “They wanted a bedroom community, and didn’t want to see the land developed.” During his first tenure as village president, Coglianese remembered the gated communities Ambriance and Chasemoor being constructed on the purchased land. The sprawling Burr Ridge Village Center, to the north of Ambriance and Chasemoor, did not arrive for some time. Cizek said when she departed from the village board in 2005, there had only been “preliminary work” done on the village center. “We thought it would be built out in ten, 12 years,” Coglianese said. “They’re still working on it.”

••• Today, the Burr Ridge Village Center contains more than 195,000 square feet of restaurants retail space, while also featuring almost 200 luxury residential condominiums, as well as additional office condos. Unincorporated Pleasantdale was ultimately annexed into the village in 1977, and Burr Ridge has

since evolved from a rural community into a suburban one. “Now that farm is the basic downtown of Burr Ridge,” Schaus said. “It worked out very, very well.” When area residents initially opposed the CDA housing project, they had no idea of the development potential for the Bridewell property or the Village of Burr Ridge in general.—All they knew was that in their opinions, it was not in the best interest of the region for a variety of reasons. And due to a paucity of public transportation, it turned out that such a mass of low- and moderate-income housing would not have been conducive to prospective tenants as well. “We’ve got a good location because of 294 and I-55,” Coglianese said. “The older residents here would have probably still liked the open land, but that just doesn’t happen [this] close to Chicago.” n Be sure to look for next month’s issue of Hinsdale Magazine, when we examine what the future may hold for Burr Ridge, including the County Line Road bridge currently under construction over I-55. Sources: Associated Press, Aug. 22, 1993; Chicago Daily News, June 25, 1969; Chicago Sun-Times, April 18, 1969, Oct. 28, 1970; Chicago Tribune, April 27, 1969, June 24, 1969, May 24, 1987, May 8, 1999; The New York Times, Dec. 21, 1976; “Richard J. Daley,” Encyclopædia Britannica; Suburban Life, April 1969, Jan. 27, 1970, Aug. 1970, Nov. 1970, May 1971, Aug. 1971, Sept. 1980; Suburban Tribune, Dec. 19, 1969, Jan. 2, 1970; The Doings, April 1981, 2003.

brings you The Most Advanced Laser

HAIR REMOVAL TECHNOLOGY Fast, Safe & Effectively Removes Unwanted Hair Delivering Permanent Results

At the Laser Aesthetic Center, we are constantly upgrading our systems in order to remain on the cutting edge of this dynamic industry. We now have the ability to offer a dedicated solution for high-volume hair removal that provides fast, uniform, permanent hair reduction to the widest range of skin and hair types – without sacrificing comfort. By introducing the Palomar Vectus laser to our current mix of laser technologies that already include Cutera technologies; Large treatment areas such as full body hair removal, full legs, chest and back have become a quick, safe and even more effective treatment than what was ever capable of before. The new spot size has enabled us to cut the treatment duration time by more than half.

FULL BODY LASER HAIR REMOVAL

• Anti-Aging Management • BOTOX • Chemical Peels • Dermaplaning • Juvéderm

• IPL- Brown Spot and Red Spot Removal • Laser Collagen Production

• Laser Hair Removal • Laser Skin Smoothening • Laser Wrinkle Removal • Skin Tightening • Varicose Veins

Only $650 per treatment for full body laser hair removal (savings $400)

950 North York Road, Suite 104 Hinsdale, Illinois 60521

Valid until March 7, 2015

www.laser-aesthetic-center.com

630.920.9155

Visit Our Website for Current Promotions www.laser-aesthetic-center.com www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 23

– ADVERTISEMENT –

A StrAighter Smile – Without CompromiSe iTero makes Invisalign even more patient-friendly, with mess-free digital impressions that yield ideal results

R

eady to revamp your smile, but holding back out of uncertainty? Advances in cosmetic dentistry have transformed smile makeovers into experiences patients enjoy. In 2015, straighter teeth no longer demand metal braces. Alternative orthodontic options like Invisalign put patient needs first, allowing teens and adults to straighten happily. For Hinsdale Dentistry, simply offering Invisalign isn’t enough; we’ve chosen to make the orthodontic treatment process even more pleasant. The secret lies in digital impressions.

tools can help improve the uncertainties and boost dentist-patient relationships. The iTero is a digital impression system that creates 3D scans of your teeth. It’s just one tool in the burgeoning field of CAD/CAM dentistry, which combines digital capability with human expertise. With computerassisted impressions, your new Invisalign trays will fit as snugly as possible. This not only conserves treatment time, but also allows for subtle and carefully controlled results. Your final smile will be as close to the one you’ve imagined as possible – a dream brought into reality.

Dr. Zivile Z. Chirban Because Invisalign prioritizes convenience and patient satisfaction, we’re always looking for ways to make it even more fulfilling. Our iTero digital scanner is the optimal treatment companion. This device not only iTero removes the countless variables that plague traditional improves patients’ time in the dental chair, but also ensures impressions, leading to superb scans and perfectly-fabricated they see the best possible Invisalign Invisalign trays. Scans are taken by a results. handheld wand, which captures digital images of the patient’s teeth, bite, and jaw “iTero helps us Invisalign isn’t a new procedure, but it structure. The images are immediately achieve our primary available for further investigation, continues to evolve. With treatment aids like the iTero, patients find the entire allowing your dentist to ensure they are invisalign goal: endeavor even more comfortable than ready to be sent to the lab. Once the comforTable, they could have imagined. dental lab has the 3D impressions, they are able to create the necessary Invisalign accuraTe TreaTmenT Nobody enjoys taking dental impressions. trays, and quickly ship them back to our ThaT leads To Patients with sensitive gag reflexes office. The entire process is streamlined, experience anxiety and struggle to life-changing smiles” and your treatment proceeds without a breathe. The messy impression gel causes hitch. discomfort and claustrophobia. And the – Dr. Chirban results aren’t always perfect, leading to Today, Invisalign has partnered with the need for new impressions – and for the iTero, making it simpler than ever to enjoy patient to undergo the process all over again. Your dentists hate digital impressions throughout your orthodontic treatment. doing this to you, and you hate experiencing it. But new, digital Both you and your dentist can benefit from the uncomplicated

BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

AFTER

unparalleled versatility Creating the perfect byte.

smile appreciation month

Ever wonder what you would look like with straight teeth? The iTero scanner is all about keeping you comfortable while delivering precise imagery, with NO putty-filled impression trays that make you gag!

Schedule a complimentary smile exam and receive your FREE before & after treatment images– PLUS receive a complimentary smile simulation, AND a $500 credit towards your treatment!

offer good till march 1st

Invisalign has long

iTero’s digital impressions

The digital handpiece

Finally, Invisalign aligners

been the comfortable

are immediately available

scans teeth without

without messy materials

orthodontic option – but it

for evaluation and

making the patient

and gag-inducing

can get even better

treatment planning

uncomfortable

impressions

treatment planning and the comfortably fitting aligners. We know that you’re not probably thrilled at the prospect of spending time on orthodontic treatment, so we want things to proceed as quickly as possible (without compromising results). Since your Invisalign trays will fit so well, treatment will stay on track – and yield your straightened, beautiful smile. While iTero and Invisalign are a great match, the majority of Invisalign providers don’t offer digital scanning. Hinsdale Dentistry is thrilled to offer our patients one of the only Invisalignoriented digital impressions in the surrounding area. If you’re anxious at the outset of treatment, we want to do whatever possible to soothe your nerves. Your final smile is the goal, but the treatment along the way can be similarly satisfying.

likely to progress as planned. Our patients deserve the best – and in this case, the best is the iTero. Potential Invisalign patients will find many of their concerns put to rest when they learn about the benefits of digital impressions. And if you’re thinking Invisalign, but feeling suffocated by dental anxiety, you’ll be especially relieved. The comfortable impressions, rapid treatment, and straightforward process will transform your attitude toward dentistry.

If you are not looking for Invisalign but are hoping to make any restorative treatment all the smoother, the iTero might be a potential tool. All you need to do to learn more is get in touch with Hinsdale Dentistry. Whether you’re an existing or Hinsdale Dentistry Team new patient, we would love to hear from you, and introduce you to the digital side of dentistry. We’re always striving to provide the best possible dental treatment, and our computer-assisted impressions are a substantial part of reaching that goal. Start a conversation with You’re getting Invisalign just once, and the process should be our practice to see what iTero could do for you. a positive one. If you’re at ease during treatment, you’re more

Peter T. Harnois, DDS Zivile Z. Chirban, DDS Michael J. Kowalczyk, DDS

911 N. Elm, Suite 230

|

Hinsdale, IL

|

630-323-4468

|

HinsdaleDentistry.com

Community Scene

Hinsdale Assembly

DEBUTANTE BALL

Twenty-five debutantes were presented at the 51st annual Hinsdale Assembly Ball, held on Dec. 23 at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort in Oak Brook.

T

he ball is the culmination of a busy year for the young women, who learned about the importance of philanthropy and community service through a variety of volunteer service experiences. This past year, assembly members and their fathers spent a day painting, cleaning and organizing a home for a family in Chicago’s Lawndale neighborhood. They provided beds for a family that had been sleeping on the floor. Assembly members also volunteered at the mobile food pantry in Willowbrook, conducted by HCS Family Services. They helped unload a food truck, and assisted in distributing the food to families in need. Proceeds from this year’s assembly ball will benefit the new Adventist Cancer Institute for Adventist Hinsdale Hospital and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospitals, which is being constructed on Ogden Ave.

The 2014 Debutantes are: Hinsdale Margot Paige Beard, daughter of Mr. Bejan Erin Douraghy and Ms. Kimberly Jane Beard Elizabeth Holly Bradley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Alexander Bradley Madeline Mary Bucheleres, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Frederick Bucheleres Lindsey Meredith Eichelman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Robert Eichelman Paxton Alexandra Gammie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Frost Gammie Sydney Taylor Gent, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Alan Gent Mallory Elise Griffith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Ladd Griffith Catherine Jeanne Grimm, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett Holly Grimm, Jr. Sarah Lindsey Hansen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Patrick Hansen Greer deLeeuw Harrison, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Howard Harrison Ashley Marie Hipskind, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Jerome Hipskind Sofia Duer Howson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Alexander Howson, Jr. Delaney Kathryn Laux, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Chapman Laux Caroline Marie Oakum, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lee Oakum Erika Marie Schwartz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Barry Allen Schwartz Victoria Elizabeth Tomei, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Duke Wellington Tomei Alexandra Victoria Usher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Joseph Usher Megan Elise Usher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Leo Usher

Members of the 2014 Honor Guard are: Hinsdale Stephen Robinson Dillon, son of Dr. Jane Elizabeth and Dr. Bruce Campbell Dillon John William Eddins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thomas Eddins Richard Orre Excell IV, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Orre Excell III William Binder Hurd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hanford Hurd, Jr. Alexander John Kornak, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Charles Kornak Ryan Fullam Lee, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Sturges Lee John Walter Liljeberg, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeff John Liljeberg Joshua Michael Meyer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Joseph Meyer Kristian Jens Meyer, son of Dr. and Dr. William Joseph Meyer John Benjamin Palmer, son of The Honorable and Mrs. Stuart Evan Palmer William Shelby Parsons, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Goodison Parsons John Tilton Pierce, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. John Tilton Pierce Michael James Ritz, son of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Edward Ritz John Patrick Schmidt, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Bernard Schmidt, Jr. Thomas Joseph Schmidt, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Bernard Schmidt, Jr. Rorey Drew Seligmann, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Drew Seligmann Zachary Jeffrey Wilder, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Donald Wilder Jackson Hobart Williams, son of Ms. Cynthia Cappello Williams and Mr. John Thomas Williams

Burr Ridge Samantha Karen Buddig, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Charles Buddig Cynthia Rose Stella, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Frank Stella

Clarendon Hills Grant Richard Anderson, son of Mrs. Margaret Faletti Anderson and Mr. Charles Emil Anderson Daniel Frank Bergdoll, son of Mr. Howard Glenn Bergdoll III and Mrs. Susan Kay Gibson Howard Dean Hellwig, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Gordon Killpack and the late Mr. John Albert Hellwig

Clarendon Hills Jenna MacKay Blodgett, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Landas Blodgett, Jr. Christine Ann Dorsett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Henley Dorsett Eileen Marie Malecki, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Henry Malecki III LaGrange Park Laura Ann Dillon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sean Dillon Oak Brook Nicolette Cleopatra Casio, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Cascio

26 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Western Springs John Thatcher Creber, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. John Thatcher Creber

Photos courtesy of Kim Beard

Top: Ashley Hipskind, Greer Harrison, Sarah Hansen, Catherine Grimm and Mallory Griffith; Bottom Left: 2014 Debutantes and Honor Guard members; Bottom Right: 2014 Debutantes and their Honor Guard escorts.

Wealth Planning Network™

Managing Wealth Across Family Generations Phone: (708) 481-4000 • Fax (708) 481-4599 One Westbrook Corporate Center • Suite 300 • Westchester, IL 60154

“

Working with Wealth Planning Network helped my family properly structure our estate and save millions in potential income and estate taxes.” – Dr. S., Burr Ridge, IL

Wealth Planning Network is the trusted wealth manager throughout the Chicagoland area for physicians, business owners, and corporate executives. Through a combination of personalized attention, industry expertise, and the latest technology, we are able to provide our clients with a complete wealth management solution. We specialize in asset protection, estate and income tax minimization, investment management, and advanced life insurance management.

Specializing in the complex needs of physicians, business owners, and corporate executives.

“

We worked with Wealth Planning Network to create a family foundation, which helped us reduce capital gains and maximize our giving to the charities we were passionate about.”

“

Wealth Planning Network took the time to ask the right questions and listened to our unique needs. They built a customized plan with a family limited partnership, LLC’s, and irrevocable trusts that protected our family and assets from malpractice, lawsuits, and liability.” – Dr. and Dr. C., Barrington, IL

– Mr. and Mrs. J., Oak Brook, IL

FREE CONSULTATION Please call our office today to find out how Wealth Planning Network can help your family navigate their financial future.

• • • • • •

Asset Protection Estate Planning Retirement Planning Investment Management Tax Minimization Charitable Giving

Wealth Planning Network Phone: (708) 481-4000 Fax (708) 481-4599 One Westbrook Corporate Center Suite 300 Westchester, IL 60154

www.wpn360.com From left to right: Angela Watkins, Janet Waghorne, Larry Gatz, Michael Jankowski, Lauren Jankowski, Chrisy Jankowski

The hottest trends for the 2015 wedding season.

Photo by Patricia Lyons

30 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Celebrations GUIDE

from the

Proposal Toast to the

BY CYDNEY CAPE

ebruary really is the month of love. And while for most, the annual exchange of flowers and chocolate signifies a return to romance, there’s another reason to celebrate the season—weddings. According to Brides magazine, more engagements happen between November and December than any other time of year. That makes right now the perfect time for brides and grooms alike to start planning their dream weddings.

With some of the very best nationallyrecognized vendors located right here in the Chicagoland area, we didn’t have to go very far to knock on the doors of some dream experts to give us the scoop on all things wedding for 2015. For the first impression to any event, the invitation or save-the-date is the first glimpse guests will get into your overall wedding scheme. For that, we turned to Ashley Killpack, owner of Ashley’s Custom Stationary in Clarendon Hills, for a look into paper trends. “Simple is still proving to be best,” Killpack said. “There is nothing more elegant than a beautiful pearl white or soft, ecru-engraved invitation. More and more of our brides are using hand calligraphers to write the invitation and accessory pieces in their calligraphy style, and then they are engraved from that artwork. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The save-the-date and invitations set the tone of the wedding, and prepare your guests for the big day.” A return to timeless details with an emphasis on customization is really what is “in-trend” these days. Just ask event planner Kristina Taheri of Kristina Taheri Events. “We are seeing events looking more personal, such as cozy hotel lounges or estate-like living rooms, and less like dozens of linen-clad tables and flowers etched across a room,” said Taheri, who is also a Hinsdale resident. “Incorporating props such as fireplace mantles, bookshelves, lounges, carpets, smaller tables and oversized mirrors will be popular.” Marina Birch of Birch Design Studio in Chicago is known for taking events and elevating them to a real-life fantasy. “For 2015, we are continuing to see custom bars, food stations and other Continued on page 32

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 31

Celebrations GUIDE

Photo provided by Avery House

4

Continued from page 31

Photo by Patricia Lyons, Birch Design Studio, Ltd.

1

Photo by Truffleberry Market Catering

2

signature elements that are designed to reflect the aesthetic of the wedding, or occasionally a theme the wedding is celebrating,” Birch said. Birch recalls a recent client wedding in which the couple interpreted the seasons, taking guests from a winter thaw with a cool-blue ice bar, to a reception area with a burst of spring florals. “This wedding showcases another trend we have been seeing a lot for this coming year, which is the use of floral or greenery garlands as décor—not only on staircases, handrails and vertical surfaces, but more often as tabletop décor,” she said. Veteran event designer Kara Superfine of Kara Superfine Events knows how to incorporate a fresh trend, while managing to make the overall landscape look timeless and elegant. “Elliptical dining tables, clever amuse buche courses and round menu cards to fit charger plates are just a few trends I’m seeing,” Superfine said. “Elliptical tables allow us designers the luxury of creating a rolling landscape of flowers, candles and accessories, while still making conversation more inclusive for the guests.” According to Superfine, clients are also being more creative than ever and bringing their tastes to the center of their weddings.

“So many clients are putting a gorgeous and delicious meal at the top of their priority list,” she said. “For a recent wedding, we were inspired by a restaurant from a couple’s first date—a modern Mexican spot in the city. We offered guests a mini chicken taco paired with a petite, salt-rimmed margarita shot. “Because this is such a small course, you can get creative without it dictating the direction of the entire meal.” With the wedding-day cuisine playing such a standout role, we let our foodie curiosities run wild with a few of the brightest culinary minds in the event industry. One of the most buzzed-about local catering spots is Truffleberry Market in Westmont. Truffleberry Market executive chef and owner Brittany Ferrin said that creativity is key in letting the food play a major role in the overall event. “We find that guests love an element of interaction,” Ferrin said. “It really gets people talking, creates excitement and adds this piece of personalization to a wedding menu. Adding a specialty ‘bar’ to your list of must-have wedding items is worth foregoing something that will have less impact.” Truffleberry Market is all about creative presentations, and is always up for new ways to keep guests involved. “A bubble bar with different infused Continued on page 34

Photo by Marcin Cymmer Smart, Pixel Studio

3

32 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

[1] Lake Geneva grooms lapel; [2] Creative food presentation at Truffleberry Market, “Cloudy with a chance of lettuce wrap” ; [3] Chalkboard fondant appliqué (by Toni Patisseri); [4] Staged after-party lounge vignettes set a clubby tone at Cafe Brauer (by Kristina Taheri).

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 33

Celebrations GUIDE Continued from page 32

syrups and garnishes that guests can create their own signature sip [from] is always fun,” Ferrin said. “Everyone loves to feel like they sort of ‘made’ something.” Planner Rachel De Marte also shares the same food-centric focus when planning her clients’ weddings. “Food is the centerpiece,” De Marte said. “Surprise guests by having something edible, like cheese and charcuterie boards, on the table when they are seated. They’re always gorgeous, and so much more fun than

Photo by Kent Drake Photography

Photo by Gina & Tony Photography

3

Photo provided by Bella Bianca Bridal

4

[1] “Winter Thaw” blue ice bar for a ski enthusiast client (by Birch Design Studio); [2] Mini taco with margarita shot sits atop round menu card to add tablescape interest (by Kara Superfine Events); [3] Rachel De Marte Events (Catering by Entertaining Company); [4] Dori bridal gown for the fashion forward bride at Bella Bianca Bridal Couture in Oakbrook Terrace.

34 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

just florals. “Mobile food bars are also a huge trend; forget the big, cumbersome raw bar with the tacky ice sculpture, and go mobile. It’s a nice surprise for guests when the raw bar comes to them.” Since implementing personality into every element of an event has never been more important, we couldn’t possibly forget the dessert. The traditional centerpiece of almost every wedding—the cake—is seeing updates of its own according to Toni Cox, owner or Toni Patisserie & Cafe in Hinsdale. “Textured cakes on both fondant and buttercream cakes, naked cakes, painted cakes and lots of metallic accents with even whole tiers covered with gold leaf are very trendy right now,” Cox said. “Other trends are chalkboard cakes and wafer paper flowers made from an edible rice paper. For sugar-centric couples, the options are endless, with many opting for a sweets table in addition to a larger cake.” With Chicago being a major hub for the culinary elite, you may think we left fashion-lovers off the list. But with big names like Vera Wang and Belle Vie Couture taking residency on Oak Street, and Bella Bianca Bridal Couture in Oakbrook Terrace, local brides have more options than ever. Bella Bianca owner Natalie Bauer said thanks to social media, brides have access to images and fashion trends from around the world. “2015 is the year of brides expressing their personal style with

1

Photo provided by Studio This Is

2

gowns incorporating unique touches to set them apart, including color fabrics in hues ranging from blush to lavender, sultry low backs and delicate, builtup necklines in lieu of the traditional strapless,” Bauer said. Having a more readily available look at bridal styling through outlets like wedding blogs has sparked the interest of brides craving their own, unique looks. Along with being outfitted in the most sought-after designs, a bevy of hot new venues are cropping up all over Chicago too. Couples now have more options than ever when it comes to the direction of their planning and where to implement these must-have trends. Alternative spaces like Venue One and Chicago Illuminating Company appeal to both classic couples looking to create a traditional setting in a more raw space, as well those couples looking to have a completely unique event. Mainstays like the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort and downtown hotels are just as popular, and can accommodate wedding parties looking to stay in one spot for post-wedding celebrations. Whatever your taste may be and however your vision comes to life, you can be sure that you are in the right city. Chicago is serving up some of the freshest trends in weddings, and pushing the creative boundaries to please even the most discerning couples. So, for the excited bride-tobe still basking in the glow of your engagement, we wish you all the best in the most joyous time of your life. n

Serving You 24 Hours a day, 7 Days a Week

Your Referrals Are Greatly Appreciated

10 Passenger Stretch Limo $75/Hour | 3 Hours Minimum (Normally $85/Hour)

$10 OFF Any Round-Trip Airport Reservation $5 OFF | Any One-Way Airport Reservation

Must mention ad to receive discount. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

info@SharbelLimoService.com | 847-806-2893

SharbelLimoService.com

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 35

Ask the Expert – ADVERTISEMENT –

bridal hairstyles

Hair by senior stylists Alex, TJ, and Amber

ELEGANT UPDOS, CASCADING CURLS, EXTENSIONS, KNOTS OR TRENDY ORNAMENTS ZAZU SALON STYLISTS ANSWER YOUR BRIDAL QUESTIONS

Q: What makes Zazu the salon for brides and their wedding parties? A. Zazu is a great place for brides and their bridal parties. We have amazing stylists, and we have a lot of them. We work

with brides to make sure that they pick the right look. We have everything in-house including hair, makeup, nails, facials— everything the party needs to get ready and feel great on the big day. Contact our wedding coordinator to set up all of your bridal needs.

Q: Are brides preferring up-dos or their hair down for the big day? A. Bridal hair depends all on the bride. It depends on what the bride feels comfortable with, what her dress looks like, what

the theme of her day is and what she wants put in her hair. Sometimes they’ll come in with an idea during a trial, and by the time the bride leaves, it is an entirely different look. Either way, a bride always looks beautiful. It is all about how she feels, and we just want her to feel beautiful!

Q: For the up-dos, how would you describe the look most brides are requesting? A. The one request I frequently hear is “soft” and “romantic.” A bride wants to look elegant and gentle—nothing too harsh or

additional brooch or hair piece for a little extra detail during the reception. I’ve also seen brides wear real flowers or vintage hair pins to compliment a more romantic themed wedding.

Q: For her consultation appointment, how should the bride-to-be best prepare? A. When a bride goes for a consultation, pictures are helpful! They give the stylist a better idea of what a bride likes. A stylist

can then narrow down exactly what a bride is looking for, and will be able to give better suggestions. Also, bring in a picture of the dress; it shows a lot to the stylist. It’s also important to bring in what they want to put in the hair, whether it’s the veil or a hair piece. It gives a stylist something to work with, and makes it easier to get the bridal hair on point.

Q: What advice do you give the bride so her hair looks fresh and lasts all day and night? A. Hair should be washed and dried the night before! Your hair will hold a curl or wave, and last longer. Be sure to use a dry, strong hold, aerosol hairspray. This will keep fly-aways under control, and keep the curl throughout the day. Carry extra bobby pins just in case any pieces fall loose when the veil is removed.

too tight to the head. If it’s down, the hair is usually styled with big, loose waves and a little height. If it is worn up, it is usually pinned softly around the face.

Q: Obviously, one of the main hair accessories is the veil. What other hair accessories are you seeing? A. Veils are beautiful and traditional but they are often removed following the ceremony. I suggest brides wear an Naperville 135 S Washington St 630.355.2230 36 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Wheaton 133 N Main St 630.221.8300

18 E. Hinsdale Avenue | Hinsdale 630.325.8126 Chicago 46 E. Superior St. 312.573.8088

Zazu Men 10 Grant Square 630.325.8110

M E G A N M C C L E A RY P R E S E N T S

perfection is in the Details

504 N. Grant, Hinsdale Luxury abounds in this 5 bedroom 5 1/2 bath cedar and stone residence in prime Hinsdale location. Designer decorated from top to bottom, perfection is in the details. This well planned home is infused with high end finishes including stunning new chef’s kitchen, dual laundry rooms, exquisite millwork and rich dark wood floors throughout. Lower level includes bar, media room, game room and workout room. Enjoy wrap around porch, private fenced in yard with spacious stone terrace and fire pit. Coveted 3 car garage and absolutely move in ready!

For more information or a private tour contact:

The McCleary Group LU X U RY C O L L E C T I O N S P E C I A L I S T S

Megan McCleary 630.780.1913 megan@mcclearygroup.com

View our website:

McclearyGroup.coM

Tom McCleary 630.780.1226 tom@mcclearygroup.com

GIVING BACK

hope, love time Tying

together

one blanket at a

1

2

4

3

5

6

Photos by Mike Ellis

[1] Ami Merz assists first-grader Lucy Kapcar; [2] Lillian Regal and Sabil Musabji; [3] Kinsey Erwin and Anika Parvateneni; [4] Molly Waters; [5] Juliana Norman, Maggie Bolenbaugh, Gillian Chase and Evelyn Phillips; [6] Nico Kiperman

38 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

A

BY KRISTIN PEDICINI

fter losing their 12-year-old daughter to cancer in 2009, two Hinsdale parents decided to turn their grief into a positive outreach for other ill children. In their most recent event, Reem and Hesham Hassaballa joined together with Monroe Elementary School to craft knotted fleece blankets, which they then donated to children at Central DuPage Hospital. For two days—Jan. 14 and 15—, parents, children, members of the school’s Monroe Cares Committee and the Hassaballas gathered at the school, and created the warm fleece blankets. The blankets were crafted by placing two pieces of fleece on top of each other, and simply tying the ends and sides together.

“These blankets really brought comfort to [Bayan] when she was in the hospital,” Reem Hassaballa said. “She absolutely loved them, so I thought, ‘What a great project to do this year.’ ” Bayan Hassaballa was born “perfectly normal,” according to her mom, Reem. It wasn’t until she was about two or three that her parents began noticing some signs. Then, when Bayan was six, she was diagnosed with Ataxia telengiectasia (A-T), a genetic disorder described as a slow, progressive deterioration of the cerebellum, which controls the body’s muscle movements. Reem said only about 400 children in the United States have the disease, adding that of those 400, about 30 percent contract lymphoma. “By the time she was ten, she was in a wheelchair,” she said. “We saw her deteriorate over time. She was always in the hospital.” Bayan, later diagnosed with lymphoma in 2008, died in 2009. Reem described her daughter as a “beautiful, “Her eyes would beautiful girl,” noting that this glow when she event would have meant the world saw happiness to Bayan. in the world. “She was all She really was a about cheer and making people special child.” happy,” Reem said. “Her eyes would glow when she saw happiness in the world. She really was a special child.” Minna Hassaballa, Bayan’s sister, said donating the blankets will help the children know that they’re not alone. “[Helping other children] is really important to me, because I saw how much my sister was struggling, and it made me upset,” Minna said. “But to know we’re helping other children in her situation, it’s heartwarming.” Although this was the Hassaballas’ first event with Monroe, it’s not the family’s first outreach effort. Continued on page 40 www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 39

GIVING BACK

Continued from page 39

“The foundation is definitely something that helps me cope with what has happened to us, and keeps my mind occupied in a positive way.”

Together, Reem and her husband Hesham founded and run the Bayan Hassaballa Foundation, which reaches out to children suffering from cancer and A-T. “We needed to do something to give back, because there were so many

people who helped us in the process,” Reem said. “The foundation is definitely something that helps me cope with what

has happened to us, and keeps my mind occupied in a positive way.” The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation raises funds from various events each year. Then, on Bayan’s birthday, Dec. 30, the Hassaballas spread the money around to different charities and organizations such as the Make-AWish Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and the A-T Foundation. “We just wanted to turn the tragedy of her death into something positive,” Hesham said. “It helps us process the grief, rather than wallow[ing].” For this particular event, the Hassaballas wanted to include their third-grade daughter, Sereen, and her classmates. “It teaches them to give back, not just receive; and they know it’s going to a really good cause, and that makes it much more rewarding for them,” Reem said. Monroe Elementary School principal Justin Horne said the Monroe Cares Committee is always looking for organizations and charities to benefit. Horne said these types of events show students that there is more to the world than their neighbors and school. “Any time you can have kids pitch in and they can see that anyone from kindergarten on up can make a difference,” Horne said, “I think it’s an important life lesson.” n

For more information on the Bayan Hassaballa Foundation, visit www. ourangelbayan.org.

40 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

THREE WOODED LOTS BURR RIDGE | $269,000 PER LOT

Three wooded, adjacent three-quarter acre lots in an area of million dollar homes. Purchase individually, or buy all three for a discount.

Sharon Sodikoff

630.258.6272 Cell ssodikoff@koenigrubloff.com 35 S Washington Street Hinsdale, IL 630.780.1212 Direct

Since 1933

HINSDALE • GENEVA • ST. CHARLES

630.325.6550

Valentine’s Sale

Champagnes & Sparkling Wines for every budget!

Check us out on Facebook

Chandon Blanc de Noir Brut, Extra Dry or Rosé

Roederer Estate Brut

Piper Heidsieck Champagne, Brut

Taittinger Champagne Brut La Francaise

Dom Perignon Champagne, Brut

reg. $15.99

reg. $19.99

reg. $33.99

reg. $49.99

SALE

SALE

SALE

SALE

EVERYDAY SALE $

12.98

$

16.98

$

$

29.98

39.98

$

149.99

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 41

ask the expert Ask the Expert

– ADVERTISEMENT – – ADVERTISEMENT –

GEAR UP FOR 2015 WITH

FITNESS SAFETY TIPS ARE YOU ONE OF THE MILLIONS OF AMERICANS vowing to get in shape in 2015? If so, good for you! However, before you jump into a new fitness routine, there are a few things you need to know to help you reach your goal. ATI Physical Therapy dishes out these tips for beginning a new fitness routine: 1. Start slow. Too often, people will start their exercise programs with long, intense exercise and then experience soreness or injuries right away. Make small goals, such as doing a routine for 2030 minutes, and gradually work your way up. 2. Consider working with a personal trainer. If you’re not familiar with fitness routines, find someone who is. Many gyms offer sessions with certified personal trainers who can help develop an exercise program that’s right for you.

3. Create a sustainable habit. People too often try to go as hard and as fast as they can, but that’s impossible to keep up. Instead, choose exercises that are challenging—but not impossible—and easy to fit into your daily routine. If you can’t hit the gym for a sixty-minute sweat session on a regular basis, figure out what you can do and commit yourself to that.

be sure to get enough lean proteins. When you work out, you break down muscle and protein helps to rebuild that muscle and make it stronger. Here is an easy way to determine how much protein you need:

4. Avoid overuse injuries by mixing it up. Don’t stick to just one machine or one exercise. If you’re focusing on cardio, alternate between the treadmill, elliptical, bike, etc. This allows you to work various muscle groups and gives your joints a break, which can help prevent overuse injuries.

Adult that is lifting to increase muscle mass: Multiply your body weight by .6 to .9

5. Focus on nutrition. As your fitness routine picks up, be sure you’re fueling your body with the right foods to help you get through. It’s important to consume carbohydrates, which act as your primary energy source during a workout. In addition,

Sedentary adults: Multiple your body weight by .4 Active adults: Multiple your body weight by .5

If you do feel pain, or suffer an injury while working out, contact any ATI Physical Therapy for a Complimentary Injury Screening. To find a location near you, visit www.ATIpt.com or call 855-MY-ATIPT.

7191 S Kingery Hwy • Willowbrook, IL • (630) 455-6630 • www.atipt.com 42 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Physician specialists dedicated to treating your skin, hair, nail and leg vein diseases.

As featured in Hinsdale Magazine’s

DOCTOR PROFILES 2014

UNIVERSITY DERMATOLOGY physician specialists are leading authorities in their field, and use their expertise to offer compassionate care and state-of-the-art medicine, treating all diseases of the skin, hair, and nails for patients of all ages, infancy to elderly. UNIVERSITY VEIN CENTER focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of leg diseases, including lower extremity swelling, ulceration, varicose veins and painful legs. From Left: Vassilios (Bill) Dimitropoulos, MD; Joshua O. Podjasek, MD; Clarence William (Bill) Brown, MD; Stamatis (Tom) Dimitropoulos, MD.

DR. VASSILIOS (BILL) DIMITROPOULOS, MD has been board-certified as a dermatologist for nine years. Dr. Bill Dimitropoulos utilizes the most advanced skin-cancer removal technique—Mohs Micrographic Surgery. This surgery is performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia, minimizing the amount of healthy skin taken when removing skin cancer, thus minimizing scarring while maximizing the overall cosmetic result. Dr. Bill Dimitropoulos earned his M.D. at RUSH Medical College in Chicago, before completing a dermatology residency at the University of Michigan. CLARENCE WILLIAM BROWN, JR., MD has been practicing as a board-certified dermatologist for thirteen years. Dr. Brown utilizes the most advanced technique to remove skin cancer—Mohs Micrographic Surgery—which enables him to map and remove cancerous areas in thin layers with unprecedented precision. After earning his M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Brown completed residency training at RUSH University Medical Center in Chicago. Dr. Brown also previously served as the Co-Director of the Dermatologic Surgery Program at RUSH.

UNIVERSITY DERMATOLOGY, CARDIOLOGY AND VEIN CENTER 8110 S. Cass Avenue | Darien, IL | 630-920-1900 4605 W. Golf Road | Skokie, IL | 847-679-5199 2570 W. Niles Road | St. Joseph, MI | 269-428-5199

university-dermatology.com

STAMATIS (TOM) DIMITROPOULOS, MD is a triple boardcertified cardiovascular specialist who has been practicing as a physician for eight years. Dr. Tom Dimitropoulos completed his medical training, internal medicine residency and cardiovascular disease fellowship at RUSH University Medical Center in Chicago, and a fellowship in Interventional Cardiology in Royal Oak, MI. Dr. Tom Dimitropoulos specializes in advanced techniques for treating varicose and leg veins, including endovenous ablation and sclerotherapy. These treatments are performed in the office without sedation, require no down-time and most are covered by insurance. Dr. Dimitropoulos is enrolled and participating in all major insurances and Medicare JOSHUA O. PODJASEK, MD is double board certified in dermatology as well as dermatopathology. Dr. Podjasek is a graduate of RUSH Medical College and he completed his dermatology training at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota where he also completed a dermatopathology fellowship and served as a Clinical Instructor. Dr. Podjasek brings the innovation and knowledge of the Mayo Clinic to University Dermatology.

n

Consultations Available by Appointment

n

Accepting Most Major Insurances

n

Accepts Medicare Assignment

university-med.com www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 43

Community Scene

4

T

he Newcomers & Neighbors of the Greater Hinsdale Area held a holiday celebration on Dec. 19 at the Hyatt Lodge at McDonald’s campus in

1

5

2

3

6 Photos by Nancy Ripani

[1] Event decor; [2] Brad and Cathy Fisher; [3] Harvey and Suzanne Gordon, Marianne and Steve Powell; [4] Mary Parsons, Cathy Smith, Christine Julian and Mark Snow; [5] Claudia Mantecon and Gino Napolitano; [6] Horst and Lydia Leitner and Deborah Kloubec

Newcomers & Neighbors of the Greater Hinsdale Area

44 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Oak Brook. After cocktail hour in the hotel’s comfortable lobby area, the group headed to the main floor ballroom for a threecourse dinner. Music was provided by a DJ, and many attendees took to the dance floor after enjoying the meal. “Our social committee went all-out this year in planning a memorable holiday party,” co-president Nancy Hamp said. “Thank you to Ruchi Gaur, Deborah Kloubec and Claudia Mantecon for excellent arrangements and decorating. It has been a pleasure working with the Hyatt Lodge more than once this year as well.” Hailing from Hinsdale, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Oak Brook and Westmont, Newcomers & Neighbors members are local residents who are new to the area, or who are interested in meeting new people. The club’s motto is “connect, make friends and have fun.” Other seasonal activities in December included a Christmas party for the euchre group, a holiday get-together of two bunco-playing groups, a book club gift exchange, and a shopping activity for a needy local family. For more information, visit www.hinsdalenewcomers.org.

REDESIGNING & CONSIGNING Bring your items to us for consignment and make money!

EBAY CONSIGNMENT

Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Home Goods, Collectibles & More!

ESTATE SALES Off-Site and On-Site

BARGAIN FASHIONS

Luxury items at a fraction of the cost!

16W231 S Frontage Rd, Ste 11 Willowbrook, IL 60527 630.468.2355 ShopMelee.com 935 W Chestnut, Ste 205 Chicago, IL 60642 312.226.7768 ShopHautespot.com

Gold and Stainless Steel with Natural Gemstones Sale – from $149

SOLARIS

J E W E L RY

9 E. First Street | Hinsdale

Local Pick-Ups Available!

Aesthetic PlAstic And ReconstRuctive suRgeRy, s.c. ALEXANDRINA S. SAULIS, M.D., F.A.C.S. Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Every patient is provided with the best plastic surgery care in the Western Suburbs and the Chicagoland area. “Dr. Saulis was excellent! She took her time to go over all my questions and made me feel at ease. I never had any pain with my procedure or in my recovery. I’m so pleased with how everything turned out. Thank you!” Breast Surgery • Body Contouring • Breast Augmentation Breast Lift • Abdominaplasty • Liposuction • Botox® • Restylane® Breast Reconstruction • Skin Cancer Removal & Reconstruction Scar Revision & Management

120 E. Ogden Avenue, Suite #204 Hinsdale, IL 60521 the AmeRicAn society foR Aesthetic PlAstic suRgeRy, inc.

630.920.9404

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS

www.hinsdaleplasticsurgery.com

REQUEST A CONSULTATION TODAY! www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 45

Inside 60521

Seven in ten teen girls

BELIEVE THEY AREN’T GOOD ENOUGH!

BY MIKE ELLIS

A

national report on the state of self-esteem reported that seven in ten girls believe they do not measure up in areas like school performance, attractiveness and relationship success. It also noted that 75 percent of girls with low self-esteem reported engaging in risky behaviors, such as disordered eating, cutting, bullying, smoking or drinking. On Feb. 21, the Robert Crown Center for Health Education (RCC) will present “Happy to Be Me,” a luncheon celebration for girls and the important women in their lives. The event will provide powerful tools to help girls develop self-esteem, led by professional health educator Barb Barrett, who combines humor with thoughtprovoking challenges. Barrett inspires her female audiences to believe in themselves, develop character and live balanced lives. The event will include the luncheon presentation, boutique shopping and raffles. “Heroes in stories are heroic, because they are faced with what seem to be [insurmountable] obstacles, and which they find the power to overcome,” Barrett said. “Heroes, like us, initially face challenges with hesitancy and fear. Being a hero isn’t about meeting the ideal or being perfect; it’s about creating positive thoughts and energy, tuning out negative feedback, and embracing opportunity.” Several national studies have focused on girls’ self-esteem and the reasons for its decline in adolescence. According to a survey conducted by the Commonwealth

46 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Fund of New York, only two in five highschool girls describe themselves as highly self-confident, while as many as one out of four girls claim they either disliked or hated themselves. According to the NYU Child Study Center: • Eating disorders, low self-esteem and depression are the most common mental health problems in girls. • By 15, girls are twice as likely to become depressed as boys. • Health risks that accompany girls’ drops in self-esteem include risky eating habits, depression and unwanted pregnancy. During her “Happy to Be Me” presentation, Barrett will reinforce the message that everyone possesses personal power. Participants will learn that they are in charge of their choices and responsible for being the heroes of their own journeys. To attend “Happy to Be Me,” the cost is $50 per person, with proceeds going to support RCC’s mission. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Carlisle Banquet Hall in Lombard. Registration is available at http://www.robertcrown.org/ events.php. Many area businesses have contributed to the success of this initiative, including Hinsdale Magazine, DuPage Medical Group, Brandsma Family Foundation, FROMM, Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare, Hinsdale Dental LLC, Reflection Software, C.W. Collins Co., and Sarah Martinath of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services in Hinsdale. The Robert Crown Center for Health Education (RCC) is the nation’s first health education center, and the largest provider of health education for schoolaged youth in the Chicago area. More than five million students have learned from RCC’s science-based programs on healthy eating, puberty, human reproduction, tobacco, alcohol and drugabuse prevention. Last year, more than 90,000 young people and adults from eight counties received RCC programs. RCC educators customize learning experiences for audiences according to age, gender and developmental levels. RCC operates facilities in Hinsdale and Chicago.

Sterling Silver and Swarovski Crystal

SOLARIS

J E W E L RY

9 E. First Street | Hinsdale

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 47

Community Scene

Children’s Home + Aid Hinsdale Auxilary hosts annual Sherry Party

1

4

2

D

ozens of local women turned out for the Hinsdale auxiliary of Children’s Home + Aid’s annual Sherry Party at the Green Goddess Boutique on Dec. 3. Ladies browsed the store for some boutique holiday shopping, while helping to raise money for the Hinsdale auxiliary of Children’s Home + Aid. Altogether, the Sherry Party raised $4,335 for Children’s Home + Aid, $3,500 of which was donated by Green Goddess Boutique and owner Elyce Rembos of Hinsdale. The boutique also donated all of the raffle prizes. Approximately 125 guests donated unwrapped gifts for the children and families supported by Children’s Home + Aid, while enjoying cocktails and gift raffles. The Hinsdale auxiliary of also donated a $50 Target gift card to every child at Children Home + Aid’s Rice Child & Family Center. The Rice center is a residential treatment facility for children with serious mental, emotional and behavioral problems. The gift cards will be presented to the children at the Rice center on their birthdays.

For more information about Children’s Home + Aid, visit www.childrenshomeandaid.org.

3 48 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

4

Community Scene

6 5 Photos by Mike Ellis

[1] Ladies browsed items at the Green Goddess Boutique throughout the evening; [2] Amy Skarnulis, Meghan Gauen, Patty Gauen and Lee Gillman; [3] Cathy Hofmann and Alyssa Guido, [4] Lisa Stafford and Cathy Hillier; [5] Green Goddess Boutique owner Elyce Rembos with Camille Zunica and Lucy Orton; [6] Barbara Sherlock, Meg Berger and Natalie Merchant; [7] Cathy Levine, Lesley McArthur, Susan Harris and Tamera Snyder

7

Make Your Valentine’s Day Reservations

LIVE Music on Friday & Saturday Wine Gift Baskets Available 821 West Burlington Ave Western Springs 708-246-8668 mecenatbistro.com

Bistro | Gathering Place | Wine Shop

Hours: Tue-Thur 4-10pm | Fri 4-11pm | Sat 4-11pm | Sun 3-8pm

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 49

Does an apple a day really keep the doctor away?

G

randmother has often been quoted as the authority on good health, especially when she quoted her story about the apple. Today’s reality is that over 100 million adults in the United States are missing three or more teeth, making eating fresh fruits and vegetables very difficult, if not impossible. Our practice, A Center For Dental Implants, in Oak Brook, Ill., is devoted exclusively to those patients missing natural dentition. Every day, we consult and treat people that cannot chew healthy diets of fresh fruits and vegetables, and are compelled to survive on processed foods. It is not surprising, then, that these patients on average are taking 4-6 medications per day to combat the potential effects of processed foods. What are some of these effects? a. High salt content can create high blood pressure, creating the need for high blood pressure drugs. b. High sugar content can create diabetic conditions that require daily medications. c. High cholesterol content that clogs our arteries are requiring daily medications as well. Couple these medications with some of the other medications being used as a result of the aging process, and one can clearly see how the average of 4-6 meds per day is a reality. Our mission and goal, for over 30 years, at A Center For Dental Implants has been to correct and replace missing teeth with permanently-anchored titanium implants and firm prosthetic replacement teeth. Our practice uses state-of-the-art computer-guided surgical and prosthetic technology that allows those patients with missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures and failing bridgework to receive titanium implants in the morning, and beautiful teeth in the afternoon. The age of high technology has truly made ”teeth in a day” a reality. Upon final completion of the dental implant treatment, it is often a good time for the patient to experience what grandmother has always preached--“you are what you eat-- and we present them with a fresh, juicy, red apple to prove that point. For many, it is the first time in years that they could chew a fresh fruit. Make your new year’s resolution in 2015 to improve your health and your smile!

Sincerely,

James V. D’Alise, DDS & staff

A Center for Dental Implants Using Advanced Dental Implant Technology to Produce Long Lasting Smiles

1301 W 22nd St, Suite #1007 | Oak Brook, IL 60523

Call Today! 630.571.2500 acenterfordentalimplants.com

50 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Center for Dental Implants Staff

Ankit Patel, D.D.S.

James D’Alise, D.D.S.

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 51

Valentines Day

SURF TURF

&

BY JIM DOEHRING

52 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

I

t’s cold, windy, snowy; a sports dead-zone. Spring break feels like a mile away. Although it’s a tough month, Valentine’s Day does give us an excuse to have some fun. Before you groan about the Hallmark holiday and stop reading this article, consider mixing it up this year. We’ve found that we have a great time when we skip the restaurant scene on this holiday, and opt to hang at the house, cook a great meal and enjoy some fantastic wine. One tip (since I know what’s on the menu): you might want to hit that Saturday Demi-Bar Pilates class or get out with your kids to snowshoe at Oak Brook Park District so you can burn a few calories before diving into this one. This year for Valentine’s Day, we are doing a little home-spun surf and turf that we prepare in the oven. What’s great about this dinner is, you can do it for two, or do it for a group to celebrate the day with friends. I start with a nice piece of beef tenderloin, roasted to medium-rare. We keep it simple—a little olive oil, salt and pepper—, and into the oven at 425 degrees until cooked to the desired temperature. The key to this beauty is the blue cheese sauce, as found at the end of the article from Ina Garten of the Food Network. Rest the tenderloin after cooking, slice it and spoon some of the sauce over. Have a loaf of Turano French bread on hand to rip and dip in a little of the sauce as well. To ramp up the “surf” portion of dinner, I run to Burhop’s and grab a couple of lobster tails. These are so easy and so great. Just cut the top shell length-wise through the middle with a kitchen shears, gently pull the meat out on top of the shell, brush on a little olive oil, sprinkle a touch of Old Bay®, and broil them on high until done. Serve with lemon and a bit of drawn butter. Sides are really chef’s pick—roasted potatoes, green beans, spinach—, any of which you can cook your favorite way.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT After starting with a nice bottle of Chardonnay while having a few usual-suspect starters (Picholine olives, a little truffle pate and Cowgirl Creamery cheese from our friends at Standard Market), we pull out the big-boy Bordeaux blends to drink with dinner. Typically, I suggest something a little lighter than a Bordeaux with a filet, but the Gorgonzola sauce has enough going on to handle these big wines. Bordeaux is comprised of two areas, the right bank and left bank. The left bank showcases wines based in Cabernet, while the right bank focuses on Merlot. The great thing about the wines from this region is that they are blended to a house style. Year in and year out, the winemakers use a combination of Cabernet, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot in varying proportion to create the best wine they are able to in a fashion that showcases the style of the Chateau. There are many tiers of Bordeaux, with the “first growths” being what many consider to be some of the best wines in the world. However, there are great finds in the “super seconds”—or even third or fourth growths—of any number of small Chateau producers. I have been buying all sorts of Bordeaux for years, and view it as a fun adventure every time I open a bottle. Of course, it would be easy to say we love the wines from Chateau Latour, Lafite, Le Pin and the like, and although we enjoy all of those, I am not ready (or allowed) to write a car payment-sized check for a single bottle of wine—at least not very often. Some of the more accessible Bordeaux wines that you would find in our cellar might include Chateau Talbot from St. Julien, Cos d’Estournel from Saint Estephe, Chateau Angelus from Saint-Emilion, as well as Chateau Duhart-Milon and Chateau Clerc Milon, which

are both from Pauillac. Try something with some age on it if you can—old Bordeaux from the right vintages can be truly spectacular. If you can find anything from 1985, 1990 or 1998, grab them up; all were great vintages that are now drinking very well and on occasion, can be found at reasonable prices. Take a look around the new Binny’s store in Oak Brook. You will find quite a few gems in the Bordeaux section and in the temperature-controlled wine cellar in the back. Then, start a fire, open a bottle (or two), and have a fantastic meal while watching the snow fall outside. Basically, forget about the “ugh” that is February, and just relax and enjoy a wonderful evening with the one you love this Valentine’s Day!

Gorgonzola Sauce

Ingredients 4 Cups heavy cream 3-4 ounces crumbly Gorgonzola (not creamy) 3 tablespoons fresh Parmesan cheese 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley Salt and pepper to taste—about ¾ tablespoon of each Directions Bring the cream to a full boil over medium-high heat, and continue to boil rapidly for 45 to 50 minutes until it’s thickened like a white sauce. Stir occasionally. Off the heat, whisk in the cheeses, salt, pepper and parsley. Serve immediately. If you must reheat, warm over low heat until all is melted, and whisk vigorously until the sauce comes together.

Lovely “Grand Lady” $1,599,000

RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

This home offers charm of yesteryear with many updates – huge yard with wonderful gazebo!

This 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bath home is located in SE Hinsdale and Blue Ribbon schools. Hardwood floors throughout, beautiful foyer, huge living room with inglenook and fabulous dining room. Gorgeous airy den/office off living room, large kitchen with island and breakfast area. Window-filled family room with treetop views, master with bath and dressing room. Third floor with 5th bedroom and 3rd bath.

Colleen Verbiscer

Top 1000 Agents Nationally, 2014

630.926.1879 Coldwell Banker | Hinsdale, IL verbiscer@comcast.net www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 53

Community Scene

Photo provided by The Community House

Local band Paparockzzi will perform at Band Together on Feb. 21 at The Community House.

“BAND TOGETHER” at the Community House

T

he Community House (TCH) will be hosting “Band Together,” its annual benefit concert, on Saturday evening, Feb. 21 in Hinsdale. This casual event will be held from 6:30 to 11 p.m., and will feature live performances by local band Paparockzzi, as well as local artists from Hinsdale’s School of Rock. All proceeds will benefit TCH’s Willowbrook Corner Youth Learning Program, which provides educational support and enrichment for youth in a high-need neighborhood in unincorporated Willowbrook.

54 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Tickets are $75 per person, which includes appetizers, full bar and live music. Attendees are encouraged to leave their ball gowns and tuxedos at home, and enjoy a casual evening of entertainment. The Community House is located at 415 W. Eighth Street in Hinsdale. For more information, call The Community House at (630)-323-7500, or purchase tickets online at www.thecommunityhouse.org.

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 55

Community Scene

1

2

4

6 3

Photos by Mike Ellis

5

Gift of Season

H

CS Family Services, the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club (HJWC) and teams and clubs from Hinsdale Central teamed up to provide holiday gifts for more than 200 underprivileged families at the annual Gift of Season event at Katherine Legge Memorial (KLM) Park on Dec. 6. HCS Family Services invited families on the free and reduced lunch program from District 180 in Burr Ridge (Anne M. Jeans Elementary and Burr Ridge Middle School) to participate. In the past, HJWC and HCS Family Services have collaborated to provide for about 60 families through Gift of Season, but this year, HCS Family Services assistant executive director Deb Baker suggested a more ambitious undertaking.

56 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

“[In November], I proposed the idea of them taking on the school district,” Baker said, “and they were very brave, and they did it, not really knowing what was going to happen.” Jorie Parwani, co-chair of the HJWC outreach committee, said the club was able to gather more than 1,000 toys at the start of the day through 32 local toy drives and donations by club members in November. Baker said all of the clubs at Hinsdale Central were able to participate and make donations, which also helped to bolster the effort. Families followed an HJWC volunteer guide to the attic, where they could select three toys for their children in different price ranges. Each family received holiday pajamas, a holiday book, a full holiday meal and gift cards to Jewel-Osco and Target. “It’s really heartwarming to see people

[1] A crew of volunteers from the HJWC pitched in at Gift of Season; [2] Jorie Parwani, Kristie Dragstrem and Micaela Saviana; [3] Elana Behar, Megan Peterson and Tracy Parker, [4] Toys were among the many items made available at Gift of Season; [5] Heather Gustafson and Kerry Magnusson; [6] Sarah Tims and Katie Crotty

who may otherwise not be able to shop for their families be able to come here, and feel comfortable, fulfilled and enjoy getting their shopping done,” Parwani said. Families with small children had the option of placing their young ones in the hands of members of the Hinsdale Central cheerleading squad. The Hinsdale Central Hockey Club also contributed to the effort in the attic. Baker said HCS Family Services is “grateful” for the “support that we received from the Juniors, from Hinsdale Central and from the community to be able to make this happen.” For more information about HCS Family Services, visit www.hcsfamilyservices.org. To learn more about the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club, visit www.hjwc.us.

Forever25

Ladies Day Out...

MEDICAL CENTER

CHICAGO’S LEADER IN ANTI AGING MEDICINE Ladies, gather your friends for a day of beauty, pampering and fun. We’ll show you the latest anti-aging techniques to keep you looking Forever 25.

SATURDAY

FEBRUARY 21ST 10am-2pm

Please RSV P to (630) 420-8080

Who doesn’t want to look 25 forever?

Event Specials

*

Botox (80% off first 20 units) ..................$5.75/unit Laser Hair Removal Small Area.....................$25 Chemical Peels (90% off) ...........................$25 Anti-aging Facial (70% off) .........................$25 Microdermabrasion (80% off) .....................$25 Microcurrent Skin Tightening ....................$25 Laser Treatment for Weight Loss ..............$25 Restylane/Perlane 2 Syringes .......... 25% OFF Vampire Facelift .............................. 25% OFF Laser Treatment ......................................$69

Feel and look 25 with Dr. Suwan and Marcella Raymond

for Fine Lines, Sun Damage, Aging Spots and Broken Capillaries * ALL OFFERS MAY BE USED ONCE PER CUSTOMER, OFFERS ARE AVAILABLE ONLY DURING THE OPEN HOUSE DAY. NO TREATMENTS WILL BE DONE DURING THE OPEN HOUSE. TREATMENTS WILL BE SCHEDULED AT A LATER DAY

Dr. Nesreen Suwan

Marcella Raymond

Forever25.com

BECOME OUR FAN ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE PROMOTIONS, GIFTS & INFO

2867 Ogden Avenue

• Forever 25 Skincare • Forever 25 Weight Loss

Lisle, IL 60532

• Forever 25 Medical Center • Forever 25 Piano For Heart And Soul

630.420.8080

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 57

Pain management. Regenerative medicine. Body and Mind Regeneration

Ahmed Elborno, M.D. 6823 Kingery Hwy Willowbrook, IL (630) 568-3862

Rejuvenation. Anti-aging medicines.

FREE models needed for permanent makeup and microblading conference sponsoring Branko Babic. Call us today at 630-568-3862 for more information.

A

hmed Elborno, M.D. is the director of Advanced Chicago Pain and Spine Physician Centers/ Midwest Academy of Pain and Spine. He is the director of the Pain Center of Excellence at Hinsdale Hospital, and is a Medical Director/Anesthesiologist at Advanced Ambulatory Surgical Center in Chicago. Dr. Elborno teaches minimally invasive procedures to other practitioners nationally and internationally. He has been also a speaker and instructor for spinal cord stimulation and percutaneous disc decompression. Call Bellasense today for your comprehensive analysis with Dr. Elborno and his staff.

www.BellaSense.com 58 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Ahmed Elborno, M.D.

Dr. Elborno and Bellasense staff

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 59

Tech KNOW

Errol Janusz

Top tech-gadgets for 2015

Contributing Writer

A

s we begin the year with many different technology gadgets stated to be released, we take an in-depth look at three of the most popular. From wearable technology on your head and wrist, to the most powerful of tablets, let’s begin with Apple’s most talked-about release this year, the Apple Watch. Apple Watch: Apple confirmed a wearable tech device would debut in 2015, with prices starting from $349 in the U.S. Last November, developer kits for the watches were released to programmers to begin creating new applications. Arriving sometime in the spring, the Apple Watch will bring many features and applications from your smartphone and tablet, and will port them over to your new, wearable “smart-watch.” Many useful applications are already available for the watch, such as heartrate monitors, fitness Apple Watch guides, nutrition guides Sports band white and instant weather reports. You will be able to synchronize your appointments and notifications to your watch wirelessly, and of course, check e-mails. The two most impressive features will allow you to make phone calls from your wrist, and even provide Apple Pay payments. Microsoft Surface Pro 4: Many of you have probably become familiar with what could be the world’s greatest and most feature-filled tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro. These tablets, along with their predecessors, promise that you will never need your PC or laptop again. The Surface

60 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

Pro 4 will include the highly-anticipated Windows 10 operating system, and all of the promised advances, such as touch capabilities and features. Microsoft’s tablet will be released with two different sizes this time, one with a 13-inch display, and the other, a mini-Pro, with an eightinch display. If you currently have the Surface Pro 3 or 2, many of your accessories, keyboards and cases will all be cross-compatible. The most exciting rumor for this tablet is that it could possibly include an LTE cellular modem. This would mean that your Internet would now be available anywhere there is cell-phone coverage. Usage of the LTE services would require a subscription from your cell-phone provider. Oculus Rift: Although the Oculus has a funny name, this new gadget is nothing to laugh at. The Oculus Rift is a virtual reality head-mounted display. The headset displays a fully immersive 3-D experience that makes you feel like you are actually in a virtual world. By moving your head from side to side—and depending on the game’s premise—, you can see inside of an airplane’s cockpit while you’re flying, or drive lightning-fast race cars. Virtual reality goggles have been around the tech world for years, but the Oculus Rift is finally an affordable version that has become popular enough to include popular games and virtual worlds. This device has become so popular that it was purchased by Facebook for $2 billion just last year. I, for one, cannot wait to commute on the Metra train while wearing virtual goggles and browsing other people’s baby pictures on Facebook in 3-D!

Errol Janusz is president and lead technician at Edward Technology. For more information, contact Errol at (630) 333-9323, ext. 303, or e-mail him at ejanusz@ Hinsdale60521.com. Visit Errol’s Web site at www. edwardtechnology.com.

Your Local Your LocalExperts Electrical Electrical Experts

ALL-A-ELECTRIC ALL-A-ELECTRIC Industrial | Commercial | Residential Industrial | Commercial | Residential

Check out our great facility!

We offer classes for all ages including: parent tot, beginner, intermediate, advanced, tumbling and Ninja Zone™, as well as competitive teams. Full Service Electrical Residential, Commercial, Industrial & New Construction Municipalities: Full Service Electrical Residential, Commercial, • Boxes/Circuit Breakers • Circuit Breakers Upgrades Industrial & New Construction Municipalities: • Smart House Wiring • Old House Wiring • Outlets/Switches/Fixtures • Energy Breakers Management • Boxes/Circuit Breakers • Circuit Upgrades • DrywallHouse Repairs • Fire & WaterWiring Remediation • Smart Wiring • Old House • Outlets/Switches/Fixtures • Energy Management > 24-Hour emergency service FREE EStIMatES 630-393-1100 • Drywall Repairs • Fire & Water Remediation > Senior citizen discounts > > > > >

Veteran and disabled discounts 24-Hourdiscounts emergency Coupon by service internet/yellow pages accepted Senior citizen discounts Veteran and disabled discounts Coupon discounts by internet/yellow pages accepted

Inflatables are available for open gyms and birthday parties.

Visit our website for more information and upcoming camps!

Our Ninja Zone™ training program will combine military style obstacle courses to develop strength and speed, gymnastics tumbling, and ‘ninja’ style moves!

Family owned & operated since 1994

630-393-1100 aaelectric.com aaelectric.com

FREE ESTIMATES

Family owned & operated since 1994

BigGymnastics.com

OIS LIN PAL AR L I 4 CI YE 201

Registrations Now Being Accepted for the 2015-2016 School Year

IN PRF THE O

Please contact us to schedule a private tour for you and your family. SIJ Principal Carol Burlinski with Second Grade Students

WISDOM

•

INTEGRITY

•

HUMILITY

421 South Clay Street | Hinsdale

Full and Half Day Kindergarten through Eighth Grade.

WISDOM • FAIT

St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School

H

GRITY • HUMILITY

•

Contact: Diane Sullivan 630-323-3244 Or Visit: www.SIJschool.org

TE

FAITH

IN

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 61

Peak Performance

Jim Fannin

Are you raising a world-class decision-maker?

Contributing Writer

I

t’s 30 years from now, and you’re following your favorite company’s stock price. Days before in the boardroom of this company, your daughter just pulled off the largest acquisition in U.S. corporate history. To become the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, she was raised as a world-class decision-maker. It’s 30 years from now and you’re following your favorite company’s stock price. However, your mind wanders to your daughter and what might have been. She was brilliant; everyone loved her. Her future was so bright, and she was a “can’t-miss” success story. One night while in high school, she looked to her friends to see what they were going to do. The drug seemed harmless enough; everyone was doing it. “Come on,” her best friend whispered. “Let’s have some fun.” That night placed your “little girl” in harm’s way. Her life would take a turn of no return. To become an adult with major challenges in her life, she was not raised as a world-class decision-maker.

Your children are only as good as what they think when you’re not there. Decision-making is a learned behavior. It is a major part of the foundation of greatness and great leaders. Most decisions don’t need to be made; many can be made in 90 seconds or fewer, and a few require a good night’s sleep before the challenge can be met. Have you trained your child in the art of decision-making? Is your child prepared for life’s challenges? The peer group of today has more power and influence on the decision-making of our children than ever before. This is especially true for the teenage years. With social media and instant communication, good and bad decisions are made with lightning speed. A flash-mob party can break out in your home within ten minutes, while you’re clueless on a beach in Cabo. Your child can be maliciously attacked through social media by a small group of peer detractors. Optimism, confidence and self-esteem can be vulnerable to a vicious web post or embarrassing photo. Is your child prepared?—Are you? Which of these questions does your child need to (eventually) ponder? Here are a few examples. • What are my goals in school, sports, etc.? • What time do I go to bed? When do I wake up? • What foods are best for me? • What do I wear to school, or when I go out socially? • How do I handle peer conflict? How do I handle bullying? • How do I accomplish good grades, and what are the requirements? • How and what do I communicate with my friends? • When and how much do I study for school? • Who should be my friends? Why? • How do I interact and perform in class, sports, music or other activities?

Continued on page 64

62 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

looking for your perfect home? We can help.

142 Kenmore Avenue Elmhurst, IL $1,199,000 5 bedrooms 4.1 bathrooms 4500+ square feet 3.5 car heated garage

Come visit this custom built home with an envious location. This house has a gorgeous two story foyer, which leads you into a large, open floor plan. The kitchen and master bathroom have all Drury Design cabinetry. A must see!

Casselyn Feinstein ABR, CNC, GRI, SFR, SRS

630.988.8859 CF@Casselyn.com www.Casselyn.com

Liz Fitzgerald

NAR 30 Under 30 Top 500 RE Marketers 2011-2014 5 Star Professional, Chicago Magazine

630.276.6714 EMFitzgerald3@gmail.com ReMax Signature Homes

|

22 N Lincoln St

|

Hinsdale, IL

|

630-325-4343

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 63

Peak Performance Continued from page 62

How do I train my child to be a great decision-maker (especially before the all-powerful peer group takes over)? Here are a few tips from my Coach Your Kid To Greatness program. Become a world-class decision-maker. Great decision-makers influence great decision-making. Look in the mirror. Many of your non-parenting decisions are seen and heard by your entire household. This includes your career, personal wellness, parenting and spousal interaction. Be aware of your in-house decision-making. Ask great questions. Ask questions that cannot be answered with “yes” or “no.” Use questions that require thought. The question is a great teacher’s tool for developing decision-makers.

Relax before you react. When results don’t go their way, most youth tense up and begin to overthink the situations, conditions or circumstances. They need to unhinge their jaw, relax their face, neck and shoulders, and then take several deep, long breaths to clear their minds, and unleash positive decision-making and swift solutions. Now go show your kid how to relax when under pressure. Patience, patience, patience. Teach

Training a great decision maker requires repetition and trial and error over many years.

Be decisive. Do you make parental decisions without emotion? Are they made as teaching aids with simplicity, clarity and commitment? Do you hold the line, or do you waffle and cut your child some slack? “That’s it. You’re grounded for one month. No TV; no cell phone.” Three days later you say, “You’ve been very good, so here’s your phone back.” When you dole out punishment to your child, stick to the decision, or don’t make it in the first place. Teach goal-setting. Train your child on how to set realistic, measurable goals. Have collective goals for the family. Share your business goals. Have your child set personal, academic, sports or other extra-curricular goals. Parents unite. Get on the same page with your significant other. Partner with one voice with total solidarity. Your collective mission is to create a world-class decision-maker once your child leaves home for college or permanently. Upgrade your vocabulary. Replace the word “problem” with the word “challenge” within the family vocabulary. A challenge inspires, stimulates, encourages, arouses and motivates, while a problem can do the exact opposite. Sprinkle the word “decision” and “decision-making” throughout the house. Teach “risk and reward.” Have your child ask the questions of “what is the risk?” versus “what is the reward?” when confronted with a challenge. Repeat this concept a zillion times. It takes on greater consequence when your child has a driver’s license. Prepare him or her well before this occurs. Discuss decision-making. When watching or playing sports, make your child aware of the decision-makers. While watching sports with your child, give a shout-out to the players or coaches when a great decision is showcased. Do the same when your child is a participant. Reward your child. When your child makes a great decision, even if the decision didn’t pan out, reward him or her with positive feedback and encouragement. Give choices. If your child is young, ask, “Which outfit do you want to wear? Where do you want to go eat?” Honor your

64 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

child’s choices.

your child to gather all necessary information before making a decision. Train him or her to ask, “What do I need to know to make this decision?” Teaching patience will eliminate the emotional or irrational bad decision. Know the peer group.

Many decisions your child will be asked to make involve peer groups. Train him or her to understand every point of view before a decision is made. Discuss the revealed agenda of each peer group member, and what the hidden agenda(s) might be. Training a great decision maker requires repetition and trial and error over many years. Be the coach; you are the mentor, trainer, guide and supervisor. Will your kid like your decisions?—probably not. Oh, well—you can be friends with them when they’re 30. Be the coach, not the best friend Years from now, all of your training as a parent may very well culminate into the following hypothetical scenario (that I’ve showcased to all my clients). The decision required will be crucial for your child in realizing their full potential. An auditorium is filled with competitive contemporaries and peers. (This could be a room with all of the members of the PGA Tour, all of the CEOs within a corporate niche, all of the teachers within a school district, or all of the musicians that want to make the orchestra.) A faceless person walks on stage, addresses the crowd that includes your child, and asks the question, “Will the best person of this group walk up on stage.” If your child looks around to see who’s going on stage, it’s not them. Develop a world-class decision-maker. Train your child for the “moments of truth” that one encounters in life. Arm him or her with the greatest gift: the art of decision-making, no matter what the challenge with its situation, circumstance or condition. It’s the ultimate gift to your son or daughter—and their future friends, significant others, family, eventual community and the world. Burr Ridge resident Jim Fannin is a world-class thought leader and coach with 42 years of experience in life, business and sports. To learn about his latest thought management program, go to 90secondrule.com, or visit jimfannin.com.

SIMPLY

delicious

free fries with the purchase of a burger or chicken sandwich

Open for Breakfast and Lunch 7a.m. to 3p.m.

Organic & freshly squeezed juices and smoothies! When you mention this ad in Hinsdale Magazine. Offer expires February 28, 2015.

{ a place in the community

Organic Coffee Bar

Cappuccinos, Lattes, and Espresso All with organically grown beans from Bridgeport, IL

FREE Wi-Fi

Available to Our Customers

7137 S. Kingery Highway Willowbrook | 630.325.6608

curbside pickup

(Southeast corner of Route 83 & Plainfield)

meatheadsburgers.com 13 GRANT SQUARE • HINSDALE • 630.487.5600

Expires 3-31-15

Code:2130

Expires 3-31-15

Code:2130

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 65

Spiritual Insight

Dan Meyer

Contributing Writer

The green-eyed monster

The Window

G.W. Target tells the story of two seriously-ill men who occupied the same hospital room. The man in the bed by the window was allowed to sit up for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. The condition of the other man required that he spend all his time flat on his back. As the men talked, however, they found much in common. They spoke of their wives and kids, and of their homes and jobs. They discussed their travels and their experiences in the military. Most of all, they talked about how hard it was to be so sick and stuck in this sterile cell. There was one bit of relief, however. During the one hour the first man was allowed to sit up, he would describe in great detail to his bed-bound roommate all of the things he could see outside his window. The window apparently overlooked a park with a lovely lake and grand old trees. Ducks played on the water, while children sailed their model boats and young lovers walked arm in arm. One afternoon, a parade passed by, and although the other man couldn’t hear the band, he could see it in his mind’s eye as his roommate described it all in such vivid detail. The man on his back came to live for those hours when, through his colleague’s eyes, he would finally have entry into the glories of the world outside. And then, one day, another thought came slithering into his mind:“Why should my roommate get to see so much, while I never get to see anything?” At first, the man tried to suppress the thought; but the more he tried to push it away, the more it surged back up. It just didn’t seem fair that he should be in this position, and the other man should be in his. As the days passed, his resentment grew. His desire for that window view became increasingly consuming. Late one night, the man by the window began to cough, then to choke on the fluid in his lungs. Through the dim light in the room, the other man could see his roommate flailing wildly, groping for the call button. The man by the door knew that all he had to do was press his own call button, and one of the nurses would surely come running. But he simply did nothing. Within minutes, the coughing and choking subsided, and then stopped altogether. The room was filled with a deadly silence. The following morning, the dead man was found, and his body was removed. When a suitable time had passed, the man in the bed by the door asked one of the nurses, “Do you suppose I might be moved over next to the window?” A short while later, two orderlies came in, wheeled away the empty bed, and rolled his into its place. When everyone had left, the man slowly, painfully, struggled to prop himself up on one elbow. At long last he would get his first look at all he’d been missing. And as he turned to gaze out the window, he found himself staring through the glass panes at the face of a blank brick wall.

One of the deadliest passions

Of all the so-called “deadly sins,” envy is one of the most insidious. It starts out like a harmless little garter snake, but if fed at all, soon

66 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com

grows into a green-eyed monster capable of choking off our peace and joy, and destroying our bond with the very people God intended to be among our most precious allies in this challenging world. Theologian William F. May maintains a distinction between the sin of covetousness and the sin of envy. “The covetous man wants to possess the good of his neighbor, whereas the envious man, first and foremost, regrets the good of his neighbor,” May writes. Along these lines, the famous actor, Sir John Gielgud, once confessed, “When Laurence Olivier played Hamlet in 1948, the critics raved, and I wept.” St. Thomas Aquinas wrote that the perversity of envy is that it actually leads us to feel “sorrow at another’s good,” or as a French philosopher once suggested, “a secret satisfaction at the misfortunes of [one’s] friends.” Have you never smiled inwardly when you showed up at the reunion and found that the homecoming queen had put on 40 pounds? Have you never felt some pleasure when that guy who takes your money on the links winds up and drives a clod of turf farther than the ball? Have you never felt a little bit of satisfaction at the news that your highflying friend or business competitor had suffered a loss more akin to the kind you’ve known yourself?

How envy works

This is how envy works: it enters through the crack of commonality, turning people who should be our colleagues into our perceived competitors. Envy then distorts our mind so that we start feeling sorrowful in the presence of others’ good, and smugly satisfied in the presence of others’ failure. Left unaddressed, envy can even lead us to wish for another’s destruction. Dorothy Sayers observes, “Envy begins by asking plausibly, ‘Why should I not enjoy what others enjoy?’ and it ends by demanding, ‘Why should others enjoy what I may not?’ ” Ultimately, envy opposes the creative work of God. Like Salieri in the movie, Mozart, it becomes our way of saying, “If you will not gift me and use me in the way that I want, God...if you choose to manifest yourself through others in ways I’d prefer for you to act through me... then away with you God, away with your work.” But here’s the pinch. Even if we actually succeed in getting our place by the window, so long as it is the green-eyed monster through which we see life, all we’ll meet again and again in our quest for joy is the face of a blank brick wall.

A better way

So, here’s a prayer that helps keep the snake small: “Lord, give me eyes to see the good gifts you’ve given me. Even if I’m flat on my back right now, help me to know that my contentment depends not on what I have, but upon the fact that you have me. Grant me the power to truly rejoice in the way you have gifted others. Fill me with a “love [that] is patient and kind, [that] does not envy or boast, [that] is not proud or self-seeking,” (1 Cor. 13:4-6). Let me take pleasure in whomever, wherever and however your grace is found. Amen. Dr. Dan Meyer is the senior pastor at Christ Church of Oak Brook.

spectacular property

Beautiful custom French inspired two story on 1.8 acres in desirable Elm and Hinsdale Central school districts. Stunning two story formal rooms with incredible light and fabulous views of

Beth Burtt

gorgeous yard, beautiful newer kitchen with warm French country feel opens to breakfast room and

630.204.8090

family room with fireplace and Australian cypress random plank floor, spacious library, first floor master suite opens to courtyard patio, four large bedroom plus huge in-live suite with bedroom, kitchen, sitting room, finished lower level with family room, full bath, office area, wonderful wine cellar. Fabulous grounds with complete privacy offers a tranquil retreat.

R

E

A

L T O

R

S

25 West Chicago Avenue | Hinsdale

$2,799,000

www.hinsdale60521.com |Hinsdale Magazine 67

68 Hinsdale Magazine | www.hinsdale60521.com