Oak Brook Magazine November/December 2025

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Versatile for Any Space

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A Smart Investment

Skyvi Pergolas provide a high-end outdoor experience.

Experience the award-winning Italian restaurant, serving a culinary voyage of classic proportions. The restaurant offers a menu of trend-setting fare, including fresh fish, veal, chicken, award winning steaks and of course, our delicious pastas. Roberto’s Ristorante radiates a Tuscan atmosphere, compliments of its warm decor and impeccable service.

AThe Giving Season

s the holidays approach, this issue of Oak Brook Magazine celebrates the people and places that embody the best of community life, from leadership and innovation to service and generosity.

We open with our cover story on Sanjeev Ahuja, CEO of Lions Clubs International, whose global leadership is rooted right here in Oak Brook. From its world headquarters, Lions Clubs continues to advance humanitarian work in more than 200 countries. Ahuja’s story illustrates how a shared sense of purpose can begin locally and extend around the world.

Our Archives feature revisits the history of St. John’s Church, one of the area’s oldest landmarks. Preserving both its architecture and its legacy, the church stands as a symbol of Oak Brook’s respect for tradition and its commitment to thoughtful growth.

In Home Grown, Oak Brook resident Shawna Zsinko, head coach of Hinsdale Central’s varsity girls tennis team, shares her journey from state champion player to mentor of the next generation. Drawing on her own experience and disciplined, technique-driven approach, she leads one of Illinois’ most competitive programs with a focus on teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship.

The season’s festive spirit shines through in Preview, where the Mistletoe Medley event blends music, celebration, and philanthropy. The DuPage Woodworkers also bring craftsmanship and compassion together, volunteering their time and talent to create handmade toys for children and families across DuPage County. Their work is a reflection of the generosity that defines this community.

We also spotlight Public Works Director Tim O’Malley, who leads a dedicated team responsible for maintaining Oak Brook’s infrastructure and natural beauty year-round. Under his leadership, the department oversees roadwork, storm sewer, and water main projects with a focus on efficiency and care. O’Malley’s practical and optimistic approach ensures that Oak Brook remains both well-managed and beautiful in every season.

Beyond these pages, the magazine rounds out the season with stories on health, travel, design, and the arts, each offering a glimpse into the creativity and connection that continue to make Oak Brook such a vibrant place to live.

Wishing you a joyful, meaningful, and memorable holiday season.

Warm regards,

Scott Jonlich Publisher, Oak Brook Magazine

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Where Nature & Community Come Together

With its picturesque setting and expansive layout, K-B House feels like a welcoming neighborhood. Winding paths, lush greenery, and thoughtfully designed living spaces create a true sense of home – where comfort, community, and connection come naturally. Here, every moment fosters a deep sense of belonging. Let it begin today.

Find Home with Us.

6101 S. County Line Rd. Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (630) 216-8744

OAK

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

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sjonlich@HinsdaleMag.com

GROUP PUBLISHER & EDITOR

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CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

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Anna Hughes

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Only in Oak Brook

Magic of the Season Discover the

Enjoy the most wonderful time of the year. Book your festive getaway at one of our seven hotels and make cherished holiday memories. Enjoy exciting seasonal events, shop at Oakbrook Center and savor the flavors of our vibrant dining scene. Learn more at www.onlyinoakbrook.com

Santa Claus at Oakbrook Center

November 14 - December 24

Find the perfect gift at Oakbrook Center, featuring luxury retailers and delicious dining. Visit Santa on the Lawn this season and enjoy special photos with your pet on select dates. For reservations and more information visit www.oakbrookcenter.com

Winter

Lights at Central Park

Beginning

November 21

Enjoy a magical winter light display on this accessible half mile walk featuring thousands of twinkling lights. Photo opportunities abound in this colorful scene and the Cocoa Cabin will be open on select dates. Strollers and dogs on leash welcome. New this year: Sensory-Friendly Time – From 4pm to 4:30pm every day, all blinking and moving lights are static or slowed and music is soft/silenced. This calmer setting is designed for accessibility and comfort. Open Daily 4:00-9:30pm. More information at www.obparks.org

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at The Drake Hotel

December 3

Enjoy the perfect start to the season with hot chocolate and carolers singing your holiday favorites as the tree comes alive with lights. Please bring a canned good to donate to our annual food drive for the local pantry. Join in the good cheer from 4:30-6pm. More information at www.thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com

Prancer’s Pub Pop-Up at Hyatt Lodge

Daily in December

Visit this dazzling holiday-themed pop-up experience and enjoy a wonderland with over the top décor, festive inspired beverages and cozy seating. An unforgettable celebration for all ages to enjoy. For reservations and more information www.hyatt.com

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS

‘Tis the season to be jolly — and check all the holiday happenings off your to-dos. In case you’re making a list — and checking it twice — we’ve rounded up some of the best local activities for the whole family that are sure to make the next two months the most wonderful time of the year!

BY ANNA HUGHES

GROVE EXPRESS 5K

November 27, 8:30 AM

groveexpress.com

All aboard the Grove Express! Start off Turkey Day by giving back to your community with Downers Grove’s annual Thanksgiving Day 5K. It’s a rewarding morning of fun, family, and friendship benefitting the Grove Express Foundation, which supports education and youth programs throughout the area.

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL” –DRURY LANE THEATRE

November 28-December 27

drurylanetheatre.com

Drury Lane presents their annual

production of “A Christmas Carol,” a Christmas classic complete with falling snow and magical illusions. This holiday staple tells the story of the greedy and cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge, who is forced to reevaluate his ways after one haunting Christmas Eve. At one hour long, this tale of the true meaning of Christmas is perfect for the whole family. Showtimes vary by date.

JOFFREY BALLET’S

“THE NUTCRACKER” –LYRIC OPERA HOUSE

December 5–28

joffrey.org

Experience the magic of the holidays with the Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker, set against the dazzling display of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Choreographed by two-time Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon and set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this two-hour spectacle blends dance, history, and iconic characters. Performed at the historic Lyric Opera House in Chicago, this reimagined holiday classic is a must-see. Showtimes vary by date.

HINSDALE CHRISTMAS WALK

December 5, 5–7 PM hinsdalechamber.com

The Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce presents the 59th annual Hinsdale Christmas Walk! Head to the business district and Burlington Park for a night of festivities for the whole family. Make sure to visit

Santa and Santa’s village, check out the tree-lighting ceremony, and ride the holiday train and carousel! Visit the Chamber website for booth and sponsorship opportunities.

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY

FAMILY FUN DAY –

ELMHURST CITY CENTRE

December 6, 10 AM–2 PM exploreelmhurst.com

The Elmhurst History Museum presents Hometown Holiday Family Fun Day, a festive celebration in the heart of downtown Elmhurst. Attendees can expect free family fun and games in a large, heated tent near the City Centre Fountain Plaza. There will be history games and trivia from the museum, holiday face painters, free hot chocolate, coffee and treats, a DJ, and more. Santa and his friends will be in attendance to take photos and hear wish lists.

MERRY & BRIGHT: A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS – DOWNERS GROVE MUSEUM CAMPUS

December 13, 3–6 PM dgparks.org

Travel back in time for a magical Victorian Christmas at the Downers Grove Museum! Experience the charm of oldfashioned holiday traditions as you tour the beautifully decorated Blodgett houses, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy a festive luminary walk. Admire holiday trees and cozy up by a campfire while listening to

Victorian-era carolers. This event is free and open to all — no registration required.

HOLIDAY EXPRESS –OAK BROOK PARK DISTRICT

December 14, 1–5 PM obparks.org

All aboard for a magical journey to the North Pole via Oak Brook Park District’s Holiday Express! Hop on a cheerful trolley ride from the Family Recreation Center to meet Santa himself at the North Pole (Central Park West). Enjoy holiday crafts, a

bounce house, light refreshments, and plenty of festive fun along the way. Anyone over 2 years old traveling to the “North Pole” must register online and choose a time slot.

Scheelite, a mineral rich in tungsten, used in electronics for its high melting point and conductivity.

Where Geology Meets Technology

Discover the Hidden Gems in Your Phone

underground—sometimes, they’re right in your pocket. The Hidden Gems in Cellphones exhibition at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Oak Brook, opening October 19 and running through May 2026, reveals the beauty and importance of minerals that power modern technology. Inspired by the Smithsonian Institution’s Cellphone: Unseen Connections, this interactive exhibit connects earth science with everyday life, showing how rare minerals like lepidolite, sulfur, and beryl help make your phone brighter, faster, and more efficient.

“The minerals inside our phones are more than just components—they are treasures of the Earth,” says Executive Director Kyle Brill. “This exhibition will open visitors’ eyes to the hidden beauty and importance of these materials.” Visitors can see stunning mineral specimens, including scheelite, a gift of Washington A. Roebling on loan from the Smithsonian, while exploring how natural elements shape the technology we depend on.

Field Trip Assistance

The Lizzadro Museum is also bringing these lessons beyond its walls through its Field Trip Assistance Grant, designed to make hands-on earth science education accessible to students across northern Illinois. Supported by Wintrust in the Community and a museum board member, the grant covers transportation, admission, and even a souvenir “bag

o’ rocks” for each student. Title I schools and schools within the Diocese of Joliet are encouraged to apply. “Our goal is to bring science to life,” says Sara Kurth, Educator and Program Coordinator. “Through interactive tours led by professional geologists, students explore the physical properties of rocks and minerals, learn about Earth’s systems, and discover how humans have shaped natural resources into art.”

From field trips to family visits, the Lizzadro Museum invites everyone to discover the fascinating connection between the natural world and human innovation.

1220 Kensington Road Oak Brook, Illinois (630) 833-1616 lizzadromuseum.org

Your Happily Ever After in

Brook

From Intimate Nuptials to Traditional Celebrations

Special Event Venues that Match Your Vision

• Engagement Party

• Rehearsal Dinner

• Welcome Party

• Ceremony

• Reception

• Post-Wedding Brunch

Exceptional hospitality and modern amenities for your guests

Double Honors for Oak Brook Parks

National Gold Medal and Academy Fellowship spotlight district’s outstanding leadership

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF

The Oak Brook Park District has once again earned national acclaim, receiving the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management— the highest distinction in the field. The award was presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) during the NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, on September 17, 2025.

This marks Oak Brook’s second Gold Medal win, having previously earned the honor in 2015. The district has been a national finalist since 2023, consistently recognized for its innovative programming, strong community engagement, and outstanding leadership. Competing in the Class V category for communities under 30,000 residents, Oak Brook received the Grand Plaque Award, the top honor among four national finalists.

see the hard work of our staff and the support of our residents acknowledged on such a prestigious stage.”

The Gold Medal Awards, established in 1965, celebrate communities that

Executive Director Laure L. Kosey, Ph.D., CPRE, was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration—one of the highest individual honors in the profession. Her induction was recognized during the Academy’s annual meeting on September 16 in Orlando.

Election as a Fellow recognizes professionals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the parks and recreation field. Candidates must have at least 15 years of leadership experience and demonstrate exceptional service, scholarship, and dedication to advancing public parks and recreation.

Dr. Kosey has led the Oak Brook Park District since 2010 and has been an active member of both the NRPA and Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) since 2000. Her leadership roles include serving on the IPRA Board of Directors and the Diversity Leadership Task Force, mentoring future leaders, and presenting at numerous state and national conferences.

“Earning this national recognition reflects the deep commitment our entire team has to creating exceptional experiences for our community,” said Park District Board President Sharon Knitter. “It’s incredibly rewarding to

exemplify excellence in long-range planning, resource management, environmental stewardship, and professional development.

Adding to the district’s success,

Together, the district’s Gold Medal honor and Dr. Kosey’s personal achievement underscore Oak Brook’s continued leadership and innovation in parks and recreation—both locally and nationwide. ■

HISTORIC ST. JOHN’S CHURCH

A landmark that has evolved over a century and a half with roots remaining intact

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

The next time you drive the stretch of York Road between Ogden and 31st Street, notice the antique looking church building on

Washington Street near Fullersburg Woods. At first glance, historic St. John’s Community Church – located on the town’s first cemetery - looks straight off a postcard of New England.

While the building itself is rather simple, the style is a large part of its charm. A few different congregations have passed through the doors of historic St. John’s Church and called it their own in its nearly century and a half existence.

1892. Soon after, the church became a member of the Evangelical Synod of North America. From the 1890s through 1943, the church became a beacon of community for this area. Many came to establish roots within the congregation, first marrying here, then baptizing their children. When they were old

members and eventually at the Community House in Hinsdale, which became problematic due to noise and distractions. A concerned board member learned of the availability of the historic St. John’s. The following year, the congregation of the Church on the County Line welcomed 15 former

Founded by German settlers in the late 1870s and dedicated in 1881, St. John’s Church has evolved with the community while preserving its historic character.

In the autumn of 1877, a group of farmers who had been members of the Proviso Lutheran Church located at 22nd St and Wolf Road, began to establish a nondenominational church. As German settlements sprang up in the area, services were conducted in German language at the Fullersburg schoolhouse. A year later, they organized into the Vereinigte Evangelisch St. Johannes Gemeinde (United Evangelical St. John’s Congregation).

Two years later, church elders purchased five acres for a cost of $400. The building was dedicated in 1881. Reverend Friedrich Boeber –also a physician – served as the first pastor. Thirteen years later, a tower was added to the church. While Zion Lutheran Congregation had also established itself by 1888 at the corner of Second and Vine Streets, many Germans stayed at St. John’s Church.

A schoolhouse with quarters for the pastor was built near St. John’s in

enough, they attended the parochial school where they gained a strong respect for their Christian faith. The congregation learned to lean on and comfort one another in times of difficulty and loss.

Eventually, many were buried in the cemetery on the hill behind the church.

The first half of the century saw many improvements to the historic building, from remodeling to the addition of a new basement and a new parsonage appearing next door to the church. The chancel was remodeled and dedicated.

Eventually, as attendance declined, the congregation decided to merge with the Burr Ridge United Church of Christ.

The fall of 1972 saw the first worship service of The Church on the County Line in the historic St. John’s building. Before that, the congregation had been meeting in various homes of congregation

members of the congregation of the former St. John’s Church. Dr Millard Scherich, who had recently retired from Wheaton College, became the full-time pastor.

The new congregation made many restorations and rehabilitations to the building and property. In 1983, the congregation celebrated the payment in full to previous property owners and banks. A new organ was installed, pews refinished, and new pew Bibles dedicated. For years, the church hosted a weekly radio program entitled “Heralding the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

The Church on the County Line feels very blessed to occupy the historic St. John’s Church building. Its members have heavily contributed to self-funded restoration projects and take great pride in the building as well as the land on which it stands. Drive by the next time you’re in the area and take a moment to appreciate this important piece of history. ■

BEHIND THE BEAUTY OF OAK BROOK

Tim O’Malley’s team works year-round to maintain the village’s beauty and infrastructure

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK

Alarge part of the reason Oak Brook is such a beautiful place to live is because of the capable and conscientious Public Works Department. The role of the department is primarily to plan, construct and maintain a town’s essential infra-

structure and services. Director Tim O’Malley leads the department.

When asked how he got into the field, O’Malley relayed the gratification he came to know from a job well done while working at a natural gas utility company over several years, earlier in his career. “The feeling of satisfaction naturally

transitioned to public service and has allowed me to provide the residents of Oak Brook with that same high level of service.”

The public service portion of his career began while working in the Des Plaines Public Works Department, where he worked

before coming to Oak Brook. O’Malley worked specifically in snow plowing and paving, before transferring to the sewer division, where he was quickly promoted to foreman.

After earning his Bachelor of Business Administration, he joined the Oak Brook Public Works Department to be able to utilize his management experience. O’Malley now oversees a department of about 20 employees.

In a town the size of Oak Brook, capital improvement projects are ongoing. When asked how the department prioritizes ventures, O’Malley stated that each project is approached on an individual basis and treated with the same consideration. Several criteria are used to evaluate prioritization, including infrastructural necessity, benefit to the community, cost, grant opportunities and engineering estimates. Calculated decisions are made based on the results of these considerations.

The department follows a five-year plan for capital improvement projects to assist in budgeting. At the moment, water main replacements and storm sewer improvements in the Woodside Estates and Forest Glen subdivisions are underway. This year, street improvements are taking place in Timber Trail, Merry Lane, Yorkshire Woods and Forest Gate.

When asked if there are projects of which O’Malley is particularly proud, he mentioned an in-house paving program that began as a pilot to pave the village-owned shared-use pathways in various locations throughout town. It’s a project that has not only been gratifying to the Public Works staff in terms of providing great results, but it has also saved the village approximately $1.3 million compared to the initial engineering estimates.

Our goal is to keep Oak Brook beautiful and functioning at its very best.

— TIM O’MALLEY

O’Malley enjoys being at the helm of the Public Works Department. He finds great satisfaction in overseeing a department that provides such a vast variety of operations and services. He knows his crew shares like-minded goals and has the same intention of delivering a high level of customer service, for which the team has earned a reputation.

Regardless of the positive attributes associated with the department, the work can be challenging, particularly with so many projects going on simultaneously. But O’Malley knows the best way to meet a challenge is with an optimistic and hopeful mindset. Rather than focusing on obstacles, O’Malley said he “treats each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning rather than a setback.”

One look around our village substantiates his leadership style and dedication to keeping Oak Brook beautiful and well-maintained.■

HOW OAK BROOK STAYS SAFE AND BEAUTIFUL

Oak Brook’s Public Works Department keeps the village safe, functional, and attractive through essential year-round services:

Street Maintenance

Over 55 miles of streets are maintained, including pavement markings, signage, traffic signals, lighting, and brush removal.

Snow & Ice Control

Crews salt roads for light snow and plow once accumulation reaches 1½ inches, prioritizing main roads before secondary streets and cul-de-sacs. Most streets are cleared within 10 hours after a storm ends. Major roads like Route 83 and 22nd Street are maintained by state or county agencies.

Leaf Collection & Tree Care

Each fall, residents can place leaves on the parkway for curbside pickup. More than 9,000 parkway trees are professionally pruned on a four-year cycle to keep them healthy and clear of vehicles.

Sewer & Pathway

Maintenance

Storm sewer inlets are cleaned regularly to ensure proper drainage and protect waterways. The Village and Park District maintain about 15 miles of pedestrian and bike paths.

Mosquito Abatement

The Village contracts with specialists to treat mosquito larvae and, when necessary, spray to reduce adult populations and mitigate West Nile Virus risk.

Skin Tightening

Device-Based Treatments at CSC

BY DR. CHRISTINA STEIL AND DR. RACHEL BOGNET

Maintaining firm, radiant skin is one of the central goals in modern aesthetics. While natural aging and sun exposure can impact skin elasticity and texture, today’s advanced technologies offer a range of devicebased treatments designed to rejuvenate and tighten your complexion, often with minimal downtime and impressive results. This guide explores several leading options available at our practice, each tailored to address diverse skin concerns and individual goals.

BBL Heroic:

Broad Band Light Powered by AI

BBL Heroic stands at the forefront of skin tightening innovation, harnessing the power of broad band light enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). This nextgeneration technology offers remarkable improvements in skin tone and tightness, boosting both comfort and safety for every treatment session.

BBL Heroic is particularly effective for patients who struggle with extensive sun damage and are also concerned about skin laxity. The device delivers

targeted energy deep into the skin, stimulating the natural production of collagen and elastin—two proteins essential for maintaining firmness and elasticity. As the skin rebuilds its collagen and elastin reserves, patients notice a smoother, tighter, and more luminous complexion. Comfort is prioritized throughout each session, with only mild redness or warmth typically experienced—effects that quickly fade, leaving skin refreshed and rejuvenated.

Ultherapy Prime: Ultrasound Precision for Multi-Depth Lifting

As one of the first 100 providers in the country to offer Ultherapy and now Ultherapy Prime, our clinic brings a wealth of experience and proven outcomes to our patients. Ultherapy Prime utilizes advanced ultrasound technology to lift and tighten skin at multiple depths, making it a versatile option for a wide range of skin types and concerns.

Treatments can be fully customized based on a patient’s age, goals, and degree of laxity. For younger individuals

with minimal laxity or those seeking a cost-effective solution, Ultherapy Prime can focus on the more superficial 1.5 mm depth, targeting the deep dermis. For those seeking more dramatic results, both the deep dermis and the collagen-rich fibrous layers (the same ones targeted in surgical SMAS facelifts) can be addressed. With a remarkable 95% patient satisfaction rate one year after a single session, Ultherapy Prime is a trusted choice for those in their late 30s to early 60s seeking subtle, gradual improvements and minimal recovery time.

“Our cutting-edge 2025 device lineup, reflects our ongoing commitment to providing patients with the highest quality technology.”

UltraClear Laser: Ablative Cold-Fiber Technology

The UltraClear Laser represents a leap forward in laser skin tightening. This revolutionary cold-fiber ablative laser can be used to tighten skin through a procedure called tissue coring, while also treating persistent wrinkles and sunspots resulting from UV exposure. The cold laser fiber creates micro-ablation channels in the skin, which promote robust collagen stimulation and long-lasting tightening.

UltraClear Laser is suitable for patients of all skin colors and offers a safe, effective solution for those seeking comprehensive skin renewal with minimal risk. Whether addressing stubborn textural concerns or targeting specific areas of laxity, UltraClear Laser is an excellent addition to the skin tightening arsenal.

Tried and True: Exilis Radiofrequency & RF Microneedling

In addition to our cutting-edge devices, we continue to offer reliable options that have stood the test of time.

Exilis Radiofrequency: This comfortable, no-downtime treatment feels like a soothing warm stone massage. Exilis utilizes radiofrequency energy to gently tighten skin, and with multiple sessions, can also help reduce cellulite and tone superficial fat layers.

Lutronic Genius uses microneedles and gentle radiofrequency energy to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen, helping improve firmness, smoothness, and overall tone.

Illustration Courtesy of Lutronic

RF Microneedling: Safe for all skin types, RF microneedling combines the collagen-boosting benefits of microneedling with radiofrequency energy. Typically delivered in a series of 2–3 treatments, this method is effective for tightening skin and improving mild textural issues with minimal recovery required.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

With so many innovative options available, selecting the ideal skin tightening treatment depends on your unique skin concerns, goals, and lifestyle preferences. Whether you’re seeking dramatic improvement or subtle rejuvenation, our expert providers are dedicated to designing a personalized plan that maximizes comfort and outcomes.

The future of healthy, youthful skin is here. Armed with these state-of-the-art devices and a commitment to individualized care, we invite you to experience the next level in skin tightening—and discover your most radiant self.

About the Authors:

Rachel

is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, focusing on comprehensive medical dermatology and skin cancer surgery.

CSC Steil Dermatology 125 W 2nd St, Hinsdale 5157 Main St 205, Downers Grove (630) 455-0045 | www.cscdermatology.com

HOME COURT ADVANTAGE

Former HCHS tennis player now serves as head coach

BY ANNA HUGHES

When Shawna Zsinko became the head coach for Hinsdale Central’s varsity girls tennis team in 2017, her tennis journey had come full circle. Although she worked as a volunteer and assistant coach prior to her promotion, her start with the team was much earlier: as a student.

“It always kind of felt like I was in the family,” the 2001 graduate said of her decades-long relationship with the program. “I’ve been able to be on a state-winning team in all different

aspects of player, volunteer coach, assistant coach, head coach. It’s kind of special to be with it through a lot of those different successions.”

The Oak Brook resident has been drawn to the sport since she first picked up a racket at 10 years old. As a visual learner, she excelled immediately.

“I’m a student of the game,” Zsinko said. “I want to know, what are the strategies? I’m kind of a stickler on technique.”

That attitude propelled her to two team state titles at Hinsdale Central and eventually earned her a tennis scholarship to Purdue University. Now, she brings that same mentality to coaching.

“The fact that I was a player and went through a lot of these things and played at a pretty high level, you know, that’s able to give me a little bit of an edge,” Zsinko said.

Zsinko often finds herself at meetings with head coaches who were already established when she was a high

school athlete. But she doesn’t see that as a disadvantage — instead, she embraces her distinct perspective.

“I’ve always felt a lot of, I don’t know if I would call it ownership, but just a lot of pride in the program. It’s always been a very strong program,” she said.

That pride, however, comes with pressure. Her players often have a target on their backs simply because of the school’s impressive reputation. To keep her team grounded, Zsinko introduced a new motto this season: “Let your racket do the talking.” It’s a reminder to stay focused and composed while ignoring any outside noise.

“We’re going to play some good tennis, and we’re going to have a good time,” Zsinko said of the tournaments. “I’m a very firm believer that sports help you in life skills. So you know, I’m big on learning how to handle setbacks, learning how to be a leader, but also learning how to be a good teammate.”

“It’s always been a very strong program.”

–

OAK BROOK RESIDENT SHAWNA ZSINKO, HEAD COACH, HINSDALE CENTRAL GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS

Zsinko is fortunate to have an incredible group of girls under her leadership. She noted that tennis requires a lot of personal drive due to the nature of the sport, and her players are blessed with both immense talent and motivation: requirements in such a competitive program.

“[HCHS sports teams] are not easy to make,” she said. “My tennis team is not like every other tennis team, you know. We had 92 girls come out this season, which was so many more than I usually do, and we try to keep, you know, about 60ish. It was sad to have to turn girls away who probably could have made a team at any other school.”

She approaches coaching the same way she approaches everything in life: with passion, dedication, and drive. She’s a chiropractor and small business owner. She also teaches platform tennis throughout the area, spreading her love of the sport beyond the high school courts.

“Tennis is a sport you can play for a lifetime, and now, with all these other racket sports catching so much popularity, like pickleball and even padel, you know, it’s just such a great sport that you can be active for the rest of your life, and those skills translate,” she said.

On top of it all, she’s a mom of three. Her kids are in Butler School District 53, which is what inspired her move back to Oak Brook.

“It’s great. I love the people, I love the school. I love the teachers. I think the admin is great,” Zsinko said. “I just think it’s a great community.”

Her oldest is now in seventh grade at Butler Junior High School — just a short time away from joining her as a Red Devil.

“It’s just a very talented student body, so I think that’s where it keeps people coming back,” she said. “If they have a great experience, they want other people to have that.”

Although she’s looking forward to the day her children walk the same hallways she once did, for now, she’s laser-focused on her team.

“I’m proud of all the girls. I’m proud of anyone who’s been in the program, and I’m just lucky enough to get to be a part of their lives,” Zsinko said.

At the time of publication, the HCHS girls varsity tennis team only lost one dual meet this season and are headed to the state tournament after winning conference and sectionals.. ■

Celebrate!

Enjoy the holidays at Oakbrook Center

The holidays are here, and Oakbrook Center is the perfect place to get into the festive spirit. With more than 150 stores and restaurants, it’s the ultimate destination for holiday shopping, dining, and making memories with family and friends.

Finding the perfect gift is effortless at Oakbrook Center. For luxury lovers, stop by Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, or Gucci for iconic pieces that make every present unforgettable. Those seeking elevated, on-trend styles can explore Varley, Anine Bing, and Zara, while newer favorites like Tecovas and Buck Mason offer distinctive gifts for the modern wardrobe. Athleisure fans will find top picks at Lululemon, Vuori, Alo, and Skims, perfect for cozy, stylish holiday looks. With so many options under one roof, every shopper can find something special for everyone on their list.

And no visit to Oakbrook Center is complete without experiencing its exceptional dining scene. Enjoy a refined meal with friends or family at RH Rooftop Restaurant, indulge in Italian classics at Piccolo Buco, or savor the steakhouse experience at Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or celebratory dinner, Oakbrook Center offers a dining experience for every occasion.

This season, the center also comes alive with holiday décor and twinkling lights, creating the perfect

backdrop for festive shopping and cherished moments. From discovering thoughtful gifts to enjoying world-class cuisine, Oakbrook Center has everything to make your holiday season truly special.

Make Oakbrook Center your destination this holiday season—the heart of style, dining, and holiday cheer.

For store hours, special events, and holiday experiences, visit OakbrookCenter.com. ■

Oak Brook Takes Flight

Oak Brook recognized for pioneering drone program enhancing public safety and rapid response

The Village of Oak Brook was recently recognized with a prestigious honor from the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference, an association of municipalities representing more than a million people. Oak Brook was lauded for “Best New Innovation” for the Drone as First Responder program (DFR). This program has made a significant impact by enhancing public safety and shortening response times.

Village President Larry Herman says, “The Village of Oak Brook’s Drone as a First Responder program is a shining example of how innovation and public safety can work hand-in-hand. By investing in this cutting-edge drone technology, Oak Brook is setting a new

standard in rapid emergency response, enhancing both trust and safety, with costs far below that of putting additional officers on the street.”

With this cutting-edge technology, upon receiving a 911 police or fire call, the drone (call sign “Blu”) deploys automatically from its base on the roof of Village Hall. This GPS and radar-assisted drone can be on the scene anywhere in Oak Brook within 60 seconds of dispatch and provides a live video feed to the Real Time Crime Center and responding officers. Its high-resolution camera also incorporates thermal imaging/night vision to help locate suspects or missing persons.

According to Oak Brook Police Chief Brian Strockis, “We are proud to be

the first agency in Illinois to launch this program, and we are assisting other agencies with starting up their DFR programs.  “Blu” responds to an average of ten calls for service every day and most often is the first on scene with the best view of the incident and provides real-time information to the boots on the ground.  Blu has been a game-changer for our team.  We are leading the way on the streets and in the air!”

Notably, this marks the second time in two years that Oak Brook has celebrated an award from their peer municipalities. In 2023, the Village also won this same award for the implementation of the FUSUS Real Time Crime Center platform and DuComm integration. ■

THE PRIDE OF LIONS

CEO Sanjeev Ahuja guides the world’s largest service club

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

Service organizations are a great way to find a place to belong, make friends and contacts, and serve in your local community. Lions Clubs International (LCI), the world’s largest service society, is headquartered right here in town at the corner of York and Cermak Roads.

The origin of the group dates back to 1907. Founder Melvil Jones was a prominent member of several Chicago business circles. Jones had noticed an uptick in organizations primarily focused on networking. As a visionary of strong, local communities, he believed that if many of these groups joined forces, much more could be accomplished. Jones called a meeting at the LaSalle Hotel in the Loop and invited heads of the organizations to come and hear his thoughts. He floated the idea of combining efforts to create a larger, singular group that could not only connect community business leaders but also have a primary focus on service to each club’s local community.

The majority who attended that meeting merged with Jones’ group to form LCI. Today, there are over 1.6 million members in 49,000 clubs across 200 countries. Membership is open to anyone of legal age. “Just about anywhere I go in the world, I know I can get a cup of coffee and a smile with a fellow Lion,” said Sanjeev Ahuja, Executive Administrator (Chief Executive Officer) of LCI.

The name evolved from The Royal Order of Lions, the precursor organization, which was named in honor of the strength and dignity of a lion.

“Just about anywhere I go in the world, I know I can get a cup of coffee and a smile with a fellow Lion.”

- SANJEEV AHUJA, LCI EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR (CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER)

The hallmark of LCI is hands-on service in the local community. Lions pride themselves on being do-ityourselfers. This is a group that looks for ways to get involved in service projects that directly impact a community. “Lions have no problem jumping in and going full force when they take on a project,” Ahuja knows. “Whether it’s building a municipal park, supporting a school’s sports sector, or rebuilding Japan after a disaster struck, you’ll find Lions nearby. They’re not afraid to get their hands dirty.”

With community service as the cornerstone, funding for projects is

ongoing. Members pay dues to the organization. Local, district and international dues are used to support the clubs around the world and manage organizational operations. Individual clubs fundraise to support specific local projects. Corporate partners also contribute.

Every dime raised is reinvested in the community. When a club or district wants to do a larger service project, the foundation requests a grant proposal. The proposal is reviewed by the Board of Trustees, and if the project meets the criteria, the money is allotted to carry out the project.

Since their founding, Lions have backed and staffed projects across the globe for disaster relief, hunger, environmental concerns, diabetes, and others. Their reach is far and their breadth is wide.

One major project into which they have invested heavily over the years is Lions Eye Banks. Corneas are harvested, collected and transported to hospitals where they can be transplanted, a process which can restore a patient’s vision. Another project relevant to this one is the Lions Project for Canine Companions, particularly in the US, which provides guide dogs at no cost to the recipient and training to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Work to eradicate river blindness through surgery and medication is

ongoing through a collaboration between Lions and the Carter Foundation. It’s a program that has benefited literally tens of thousands of children. In India alone, half a million dollars have been invested over the last half-century in building hospitals that provide eye surgery and treatment programs.

Across Africa, children suffering from cancer – and their families - can count on help through Lions’ partnership with Global Hope. The collaboration assists families in countries such as Uganda, Botswana and Kenya with transportation to the nearest hospital – often a great distance in those countries – so the family does not have to carry their sick child along rural roads. Families are also supplied with food, medication, and funding for chemotherapy and alternative treatments.

In addition to well-being efforts, Lions take education very seriously. The organization has built schools across underdeveloped countries. They also support the Lions Quest Program – a social-emotional learning program that works to train teachers to help with mental health, anti-bullying, and drug prevention efforts in schools in over 70 countries worldwide.

Ahuja’s personal path to LCI began in 1999 when he took on a consulting project to revamp the Lions Eye

Health Program. At the time, LCI was looking to revamp the messaging, positioning and design of the program. Ahuja built a rapport with LCI as they reached out several more times for additional projects. A few years later, Ahuja had the opportunity to work with LCI again as they collaborated on strategic planning to build a digitized strategy through a mobile app and create digital communication and engagement, a core component of LCI’s strategy.

Once the plan was built, Ahuja came on board as the Chief Marketing and Membership Officer, and later the Chief Operations Officer. For the last four years, he has served as the Chief Executive Officer of LCI.

“I honestly thought I was going to implement the digital strategy and then go back to another startup,” said Ahuja. “I just became so interested because it’s a fascinating group. The chance doesn’t often come along to be part of such a large, international organization.”

LCI is a great place to introduce younger folks to service and giving back. When asked what he would like Oak Brook and the surrounding areas to know about LCI, Ahuja said, “It’s not your grandfather’s club anymore. We have intergenerational folks and we’re very family-oriented.” According to him, “It’s a great way to get engaged with your local community, make friendships that last a lifetime and feel like you’re making a difference.” ■

A Legacy of Service TINA WELLER

BY

In June 2025, the Hinsdale Junior Women’s Club honored Tina Weller with its Legacy Award at the inaugural Ladies Who Lead luncheon. The award recognizes women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, influence, and dedication to community service—qualities that have long defined Weller’s work both inside and outside the organization.

A member and past leader of HJWC, Weller has played an active role in helping the club advance its mission of volunteerism, philanthropy, and connection. Through fundraising events, grant committees, and mentoring newer members, she has championed the club’s commitment to empowering women and supporting local nonprofits. Her focus has always been on building lasting partnerships that extend HJWC’s reach and amplify its impact throughout the western suburbs.

through organizations like Simply From The Heart and the Chicago Lighthouse.

“Tina Weller… leads with grace, gives with purpose, and embodies the mission of HJWC in everything she does.”

— HJWC

In 2021, Weller launched Fumée Claire, a line of candles and body products inspired by her passion for wellness and giving back. The company’s products are handmade with plant-based ingredients and designed with sustainability in mind, from cleanburning wax to biodegradable packaging. Staying true to her values, she built charitable giving into the company’s foundation, donating a portion of proceeds to nonprofits supporting health, education, and the arts.

Alongside these efforts, Weller also manages the Weller Dental office with her husband, Dr. Jeffrey Weller, serving as office and public relations manager and guiding the practice’s charitable outreach.

Beyond the club, Weller is a familiar face across Hinsdale’s philanthropic landscape. She has supported events including the Hinsdale Historical Society’s Kitchen Walk, Infant Welfare’s Tablescapes, and the Service Club of Chicago’s annual benefit programs. Her involvement often bridges multiple causes—whether raising funds for cancer support services through Wellness House or helping to deliver care and comfort

The Legacy Award is a fitting acknowledgment of Weller’s years of service and her ability to bring others together for a greater purpose. Her quiet leadership, creativity, and generosity continue to reflect the best of what HJWC represents—a reminder that community thrives when people choose to give not just their time, but their hearts.

TLet it Snow

Oak Brook Chapter presents Mistletoe Medley

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF | PHOTO BY VICTOR HILITSKI

he holiday season kicks off in grand style as the Oak Brook Chapter hosts its annual Mistletoe Medley fundraiser on Tuesday, December 2, at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. A beloved tradition for more than three decades, this spirited celebration raises significant support for the Oak Brook Chapter of the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago, which provides essential medical and social services to families in need.

Each year, more than 500 guests from across the western suburbs and

beyond gather for an afternoon of raffles, boutique shopping, fashion, and festive entertainment. Returning as Master of Ceremonies is NBC 5’s Allison Rosati, a perennial favorite whose warmth and energy set the tone for the day. Guests will also be treated to a performance by the Salt Creek Ballet, whose dazzling numbers have earned rave reviews on the runway in recent years.

Themed “Let It Snow!”, this year’s event features a Preferred Raffle with 12 prizes, including a luxury stay at The Peninsula Chicago, fine jewelry, designer handbags, restaurant packages, and a $1,000 American

Express gift card. The Grand Raffle Prize promises an unforgettable five-star golf and spa getaway in Kohler, Wisconsin, complete with accommodations, golf, dining, and world-class spa experiences.

Additionally, guests can browse the Holiday Boutique, featuring over 20 exhibitors showcasing unique gifts and seasonal finds. On the runway, Zzazz Productions will present the latest in city and suburban fashion, making this event as stylish as it is spirited.

For more information, visit oakbrookchapterinfantwelfare.org. ■

Following a Natural Path

Arjan and Rimjhim Stephens have moved Nature’s Path organic foods to Oak Brook

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

The ancient Greek physician and philosopher Hippocrates believed food should be your medicine. Arjan Stephens, President of Oak Brookbased Nature’s Path foods, and his wife, Rimjhim, live by this mantra. The two have a passion for healthy, organic products that people can feel good about buying – both literally and figuratively.

Nature’s Path is North America’s largest certified organic breakfast and snack food company. With hundreds of SKUs, their products are sold in over 50 countries. “All of our products are certified organic and non-GMO,” said Arjan. The family-owned business is firmly rooted in organic farming and sustainability – concepts that are second nature to Arjan and Rimjhim.

The business started with Arjan’s grandfather, Rupert Stephens. When Rupert returned home to his native Vancouver Island after World War I, the young Canadian was one of only two in his battalion of 1,000 men to survive. Understandably rattled by the war, he turned to agriculture.

Rupert began to find peace on a small family berry farm. Healing for what later came to be known as PTSD came through developing healthy soil. It led to a lifelong philosophy to “always

leave the soil better than you found it,” a mantra he passed along to his son, Arjan’s father, Arran. Rupert developed cleaner ways to farm using earthworms, which eliminated the need for heavy equipment and fertilizers.

Arjan’s parents, Arran and Ratana, opened Canada’s first vegetarian restaurant in 1967. Arjan grew up busing tables and washing dishes there. One of Canada’s first natural food stores followed in 1971. The

couple started Nature’s Path in 1985, from space in one of their restaurants. They opened the country’s first organically certified cereal factory in the late 80s – a true family affair. Arjan recalled the company’s humble beginnings as his parents built the business. “We all worked together,” Arjan remembered. “Everyone was putting the cereal bags into boxes and doing what needed to be done.”

Over the years, he interned for every department of the company, after which he earned an MBA from Illinois Institute of Technology. He eventually rose to the role of Executive Vice President. Two years ago, he took over the role of President from Ratana.

There are a few other brands that live under the Nature’s Path umbrella. EnviroKidz, their great-tasting line of kids’ cereals, contains significantly less sugar than competing brands. Each of the cereals spotlight an endangered species with colorful packaging graphics designed to teach kids about habitat protection and specifics about the featured animal. A percentage of this brand’s sales supports organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund and the Jane Goodall Institute. “We actually got a letter once from a kid who told us he was studying primatology because of our Gorilla Munch,” said Arjan. “It made us really happy to see the impact,” he said, with a smile.

Que Pasa is a vegan line of Mexican food featuring delectable organic tortilla chips, which are gluten and nut-free. Love Child Organics is the baby food brand that has helped the enterprise expand the brand throughout North America. A couple of years ago, the company bought a large stake in Anita’s Organic Mill, which features baking mixes and flour.

Love Crunch, a combination of crunchy granola clusters paired with chocolate or dehydrated fruit, was born as a souvenir of Arjan and Rimjhim’s wedding. The couple asked guests to find ways to give back in their communities rather than bringing gifts to their wedding. The snack was created to commemorate their gratitude.

It was so good that their Whole Foods buyer insisted they market it. “So, we decided that if we added Love Crunch to the product line, we wanted there to be a big ‘giving back’ component,” said Rimjhim, “so a percentage of those sales became microloans for women in developing countries to start businesses.” This year marked

their fifteenth wedding anniversary, and to commemorate it, they partnered with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to offer 150,000 meals. And Chicago wasn’t the only city. Food banks in three other cities across North America received 150,000 meals each, as well. Their generosity seems to know no boundaries. Since their wedding, the Stephens’ have donated $50 million to food banks across the country.

“We believe organic foods should be available to everyone, not just shoppers in high-end grocery stores,” said Rimjhim. As a physician, she realizes the importance of healthy eating. Nature’s Path is proud to be part of the SNAP program, as well as school breakfast programs.

“We want to be easy to find, because we want organic food to be available anywhere you buy groceries,” she said. It’s a goal they obviously take very seriously, as products are available not just at Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme

and Fruitful Yield, but also Costco, Trader Joe’s and Walmart.

While about 90% of Nature’s Path’s products are produced in the US –specifically Washington and Wisconsin – the company also mills its own flour in British Columbia. The opening of a corporate office centered on marketing, sales and innovation in Oak Brook Regency Towers last year brought the family back to the area from Vancouver.

“I grew up in Oak Brook, so I’m happy to move my family back to the area,” she said. “There has been a real resurgence of young families in the area, so it’s great to be back in this community again.” Arjan concurs. “We believe in the triple bottom line –people, planet, profit. If we’re doing good things for our people – our team members, farmers and customers and we’re doing right for the planet –regenerative, organic and non-GMO, the profit will come and that’s our philosophy at Nature’s Path.” ■

Happier for the

HOLIDAYS

Tried and true tips to help you maintain or reclaim peace and joy during the most wonderful - but often stressful - time of the year

BY VALERIE HARDY

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but for many, November and December are far from merry and bright. This time of year often brings increased stress, anxiety, depression, or general malaise. The holiday blues have various roots: social isolation, an overly scheduled calendar leading to diminished self-care, familial or financial stressors, grief from missing a distant or deceased loved one, traditions in transition, and unrealistic expectations to “make it magical” - like a scene from a Hallmark movie. However, we have more control over our happiness than we may think. Read on for some simple steps to let your heart be light and all your troubles out of sight as the new year nears.

Keep Up Sleep. Having a consistent sleep schedule may be even more important than the total amount of sleep you get, so prioritize going to bed and waking up around the same time each day. And follow the 3-2-1 rule: three hours before bedtime, cut off alcohol consumption;  two hours before, stop eating; one hour before, discontinue drinking all fluids.

Prioritize Exercise. Whether it’s a quick walk around the block or two-hour trip to the gym, build physical activity into your daily routine. Exercise helps release “feelgood” brain chemicals like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine.  For festive fitness, Google a holiday-themed at-home workout, try a local turkey trot, mall-walk before you shop, or get in some ski runs at nearby Four Lakes or Villa Olivia.

Stay Social.  Being around others in social settings is a proven moodbooster. More reason to RSVP yes to those holiday gatherings! Research shows that in-person relationships heighten happiness more than virtual ones, so swap social media for face-to-face interactions instead.

Have an Attitude of Gratitude. With Thanksgiving coming, it’s a natural time to practice gratitude. However, don’t limit thankfulness just to November. Whether documenting daily three things you’re grateful for in a journal, filling a gratitude jar and reading slips from it at the end of each week or month, or sending a thank you note or text to someone who has made a difference in your life, bring your attention to appreciation.

Give a Helping Hand. One of the best ways to help yourself toward happiness is to help others. Volunteer, do random acts of kindness, or pay it forward.  You’ll not only make someone else’s day, but you’ll receive an extra heap of happiness for yourself as well.

Spend Strategically.  This is a season of spending, and how we spend our money matters. Research shows that the joy we get from purchasing new things or receiving tangible gifts is short-lived, wearing off the minute we “drive the car off the lot. ” So, put your cash toward experiences instead of objects – plan a vacation, buy tickets to a concert, play, or sporting event, or sign up for a cooking or crafting class. Also, the proverb “it is better to give than to receive” holds true when it comes to happiness, so prioritize prosocial spending (spending on others, including picking the perfect present for a friend or donating to those in need). Finally, buy time. For example, splurge on a cleaning service

to free up time to spend with friends and family.

Pay a Compliment. While telling someone “Nice haircut” or “Love those shoes” is kind, to maximize the happiness benefits, focus your compliments on others’ internal qualities and actions rather than appearances. For example, “I admire how confidently you connect with clients” or “Your creativity and eye for design really brought your holiday décor to the next level this year.” Giving sincere and specific compliments to others not only increases our own well-being but also strengthens our relationships with those around us.

Focus on Locus of Control. Focus on what you can control. The inclement weather? Out of your control. However, what time you leave for the airport for your holiday travel is within your control. When we operate within our locus of control, we are happier – and much less frustrated.

Quit Comparing. If you dare to compare, make sure it’s to yourself! When we compare ourselves to others, our happiness levels drop, but when we compare ourselves to our past performances or accomplishments, we can find motivation rather than disappointment.  If you catch yourself making an external comparison, be sure to balance upward comparisons (measuring yourself against others who have it better than you do) with “downward comparisons” (also comparing yourself to those who are worse off).

Turn that Frown Upside Down. Even on your most down days, force a smile to your face. It might feel funny at first, but when you smile, your brain releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin to boost your mood. The same is true for laughter - it truly is the best medicine!  So, pull up those hilarious TikTok videos or head to the local comedy club for a dose of humor… and happiness.■

WHERE CULTURE MEETS LUXURY for an elevated lifestyle

DELIGHT IN SENIOR LIVING

Enjoy a richly rewarding lifestyle all in the comfort of a beautifully appointed apartment home. Combining sophistication and comfort, The Sheridan at Oak Brook is a vibrant rental retirement community in one of Chicagoland’s favorite neighborhoods, filled with exceptional amenities and gracious hospitality.

Come visit and see for yourself. We offer tours seven days a week. Call 630-557-8797 to find out more.

More Than Just a Pretty Face Cosmetic Dentistry Improves Overall Health

BY JEFFREY WELLER, DDS

Cosmetic dentistry is often thought of as the art of creating a beautiful smile. While aesthetics are certainly important, advanced cosmetic dentistry also addresses function—and that can have powerful effects on overall health. One area where this connection is especially clear is jaw alignment.

When the upper and lower jaws are out of balance, the teeth do not come together as they should. For many patients, this leads to clenching or grinding, particularly at night. Known as bruxism, nighttime grinding can wear down teeth, cause headaches, and strain the jaw joint. Over time, it contributes to issues such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), cracked teeth, and even disrupted sleep.

a healthier overall appearance. In this way, cosmetic dentistry becomes preventive medicine—protecting patients from chronic pain and future damage while enhancing aesthetics.

“Cosmetic dentistry can stop nighttime grinding, relieve jaw strain, and improve overall health.”

By correcting jaw alignment through cosmetic and restorative dentistry, we can greatly reduce or even eliminate these problems. Realigning the bite helps teeth meet in harmony, removing the constant pressure that triggers grinding. Patients often notice that they sleep more soundly once the strain on their jaws has been relieved. Better sleep, in turn, supports energy levels, mood, and cardiovascular health.

The benefits extend beyond the nighttime hours. Proper alignment reduces tension headaches, protects tooth enamel, and lowers the risk of fractures or future dental emergencies. It can also improve facial balance, providing not just a more confident smile but

At Weller Dental, we use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate each patient’s bite and jaw position. Digital imaging, custom restorations, and non-invasive therapies allow us to restore alignment while preserving natural tooth structure. For some, this may mean veneers or crowns that rebalance the bite; for others, it may involve orthodontic solutions. Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy and health goals.

Cosmetic dentistry should never be seen as “just cosmetic.” By focusing on jaw alignment, we can help patients stop grinding their teeth in their sleep, safeguard their long-term oral health, and improve their overall quality of life.

About the Author:

Jeffrey Weller, DDS, founder of Weller Dental, is a cosmetic and restorative dentist.

Weller Dental 920 N. York Rd., Suite 310 Hinsdale, Illinois

630-654-2900

wellerdental.com

Santa’s Local WORKSHOP

DuPage nonprofit builds holiday toys for kids

BY ANNA HUGHES | PHOTOS COURTESY OF DUPAGE WOODWORKERS

While a student at the University of Illinois in the late 1970s, Western Springs resident George Rodgers was inspired by his dormmate’s classwork.

“I thought, ‘Boy, this looks like fun,’” Rodgers recalled.

That’s when he first picked up woodworking, a hobby that cemented itself as a cornerstone of Rodgers’s life. He started taking courses, working his way up from rudimentary tools and simple projects to now teaching others about this ancient art form.

In 1995, Rodgers and a group of veteran woodworkers started a group focused on sharing their love of woodworking with each other and the community: the DuPage Woodworkers. Now, the nonprofit organization has over 200 members — ranging from apprentices to accomplished artisans — who meet monthly to showcase their work and learn new techniques.

“Our motto is ‘learning through sharing,’ and I think we have a lot of experienced members who are willing to share their time and knowledge with other people who are just getting involved in woodworking,” Rodg-

ers, who now serves as president of the group, said.

While advanced technology makes it easier than ever to pick up new skills, Rodgers sees the true appeal of woodworking in its simplicity — a return to the basics.

“I think people miss working with their hands, and that’s an opportu nity to work with their hands and an opportunity to actually see some thing come to fruition,” Rodgers said. “It’s a feel-good feeling.”

The DuPage Woodworkers spend most of the year working towards their largest — and most rewarding — undertaking: They distribute 3,000 hand-made toys to children during the holiday season.

“We work with nonprofit organizations that distribute these toys to their children who are not as well off as a lot of the members’ children or grandchildren would be,” he said.

The group hosts a toy workshop in both the spring and fall to assemble a portion of the toys. Through these events, about 1,000 toys are made. The remaining two-thirds are done by members throughout the year in their homes and personal workshops.

“[At the workshops] we assemble doll beds and we put wheels and axles on different toys,” Rodgers said. “In the past, it’s been a lot of cars and trucks, but we’re expanding into different, animal shapes and different things, just to try and make sure that we have toys that are appropriate for all genders.”

From simple structures to elaborate equipment, the process is a labor of love for all who partake. Rodgers said it’s very rewarding to see his peers donate their time and talents, especially to boost kids’ spirits during the holiday season.

“This has been a hobby where there’s a lot of opportunity to give back,” Rodgers said.

Their outreach extends beyond toy-making, and they are proudly active in their communities. From building micro-pantries for food donations to restoring exterior woodwork on a local chapel, members are proud to share their handiwork to help others.

The DuPage Woodworkers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that meets monthly at St. James the Apostle Parish in Glen Ellyn. Anyone is welcome to join, attend a meeting, or donate. For more information, visit dupagewoodworkers.org. n

Cold PURSUITS

Bucket list adventures at the top and bottom of the world

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF

There are few journeys left on Earth that feel as bold — or as brag-worthy — as a trip to the planet’s frozen extremes. The North and South Poles are still the stuff of explorers and adventurers. Yet these icy realms are more accessible than ever, and those willing to trade tropical beaches for glaciers and midnight sun are rewarded with some of the most spectacular sights and stories on the planet.

At first glance, the poles might seem like mirror images. Two icy worlds defined by snow, silence, and solitude. But they couldn’t be more different. The Arctic, home to the North Pole, is not a continent at all but a floating sheet of sea ice atop the Arctic Ocean. Its frozen surface shifts and cracks with the seasons, fringed by rugged landmasses like Greenland, Canada, and Svalbard. Here, life thrives despite the cold. Polar bears patrol the ice floes in search of seals, Arctic foxes dart across the snow,

and herds of caribou and reindeer trek across tundra that bursts with wildflowers in the brief polar summer. Offshore, narwhals glide through icy waters while beluga and bowhead whales breach in the frigid sea.

The Antarctic, Earth’s South Pole, is the opposite: a massive continent buried under an ice sheet more than a mile thick, surrounded by the coldest, windiest ocean on Earth. No polar bears roam here, but instead, vast colonies of penguins

— Adélie, gentoo, and the iconic emperor — shuffle along the ice. Leopard seals and elephant seals haul out on snowy beaches, while humpback and minke whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters offshore. The skies are alive with seabirds like skuas and petrels, and the occasional wandering albatross.

Travelers drawn north usually set off from Norway, Greenland, or northern Canada on sturdy expedition ships or icebreakers, carving paths through shifting pack ice. The Arctic summer, from June to August, brings nearly 24 hours of daylight, with temperatures often hovering around 32°F — brisk but surprisingly bearable. During these months, travelers can kayak between icebergs, hike on the tundra under the endless sun, and even visit remote Indigenous communities that have thrived in the region for centuries. And if luck is on your side, you might witness the ethereal glow of the northern lights in early or late season.

The journey south begins differently. Most Antarctic expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, located at the southernmost tip of South America, and cross the legendary Drake Passage before reaching the icy shores. The Antarctic summer runs from November to March, when temperatures on the peninsula hover around 20°F and daylight reigns almost continuously. Conditions are harsher and more unpredictable than in the Arctic, but the rewards are unmatched: zodiac landings on untouched beaches, hikes among nesting penguins, and the chance to watch glaciers calve, forming new icebergs. Some travelers even dare a polar plunge, leaping into waters barely above freezing — a thrill you’ll never forget.

At the very ends of the Earth, life persists in spectacular ways. Are travels there on your bucket list? n

THE TWO POLES CLUB

If you make it to both the Arctic and the Antarctic, you’ve joined one of the most exclusive travel circles on Earth: The Two Poles Club. This informal but widely recognized milestone celebrates those who’ve stood at both the top and bottom of the planet — a feat accomplished by only a few thousand travelers worldwide. For the truly ambitious, there’s the Three Poles Challenge, which adds the summit of Mount Everest to the mix. Visiting all three earns your place in this rarefied club, which means you’ve touched Earth’s most extreme edges — and lived to tell the tale.

SEASON of SPARKLE

Where to experience dazzling holiday displays this season

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF

From glowing gardens to festive zoo trails, Chicagoland comes alive with holiday lights each winter. Bundle up for magical walks, drive-thru wonderlands, and indoor attractions that sparkle with the season’s spirit. Dates and times are subject to change—please confirm details with each venue before making plans.

ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM Lisle, IL mortonarb.org

Nov 15 – Jan 4 (select evenings)

A mile-long, after-dark walking trail through 50 acres with immer-

sive light/music installations among the Arboretum’s trees.

HOLIDAY MAGIC AT BROOKFIELD ZOO

Brookfield, IL brookfieldzoo.org

Nov 28 – Dec 31

Chicagoland’s longest-running zoo lights with towering displays, lit trees, and festive photo ops.

LIGHTSCAPE AT CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN

Glencoe, IL chicagobotanic.org

Nov 14 – Jan 4

1.3-mile trail with artistic light installations around lagoons and

gardens. (2025 preview gala is Nov 13; public dates forthcoming.)

WINTER WONDERFEST

Navy Pier, Chicago, IL navypier.org

Dec 5 – Jan 4

Indoor holiday experience in Festival Hall with skating, rides, and extensive seasonal décor and light displays.

LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS DRIVE-THRU

Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago, IL lightofchristmas.com

Nov 20 – Jan 7

Drive-through synchronized light show in the stadium’s Lot A; Chicago’s only in-city, stadium drive-thru lights.

WILLOW HILL LIGHTS

Willow Hill Golf Course, Northbrook, IL willowhilllights.com

Nov 14 – Jan 4

2.5-mile drive-thru with 1M+ LEDs, tunnels, and giant tree at Willow Hill Golf Course.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT PHILLIPS PARK

Aurora, IL

enjoyaurora.com

Nov 29 – Dec 29

Long-running, free drive-thru displays throughout Phillips Park.

BIG & BRIGHT TRAIL OF LIGHTS

Sonny Acres Farm, West Chicago, IL

sonnyacres.com

Dates TBA (2025)

Walking trail with synchronized

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN LILACIA PARK

lights, cocoa, fire pits, and Christmas market.

WINTER LIGHTS AT CENTRAL PARK

Oak Brook Park District, Oak Brook, IL obparks.org

Nov 21 – Jan 4

Free half-mile light walk through Central Park with themed scenes and daily “sensory-friendly” window.

Lombard, IL

lombardparks.com

Dec 7 – Jan 5

Classic park-wide displays, gingerbread house, Santa visits and themed nights.

WINTER LIGHTS IN WILDER PARK

Elmhurst Park District, Elmhurst, IL epd.org

Dec 4

Community tree lighting on Dec 4 with decorated trees lit through the season.

COSLEY ZOO FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & TREE SALE

Wheaton, IL cosleyzoo.org

Nov 29 – Dec 30

Free walk-through zoo grounds with thousands of lights; tree sale fundraiser on site. ■

Keep the WREATH RED

A light reminder to decorate safely this season

BY VALERIE HARDY

Many local fire departments are giving the green light to keeping the red lights lit on their wreaths this season. They are participating in the “Keep the Wreath Red” program, an annual fire prevention awareness campaign that serves as a reminder for the community to decorate and celebrate safely.

Through the program, fire stations display wreaths with all red lightbulbs at the start of the holiday season. If a decoration-related fire within the department’s municipality occurs, one red bulb on the wreath is replaced with a white one. The goal is to keep the wreath entirely red, signifying a fire-free season.

The continued exigence for this initiative is the increased number of fire calls during the holiday season, many due to decorations catching fire, kitchen fires from overloaded appliances, and fires from batteries found in popular holiday gifts like electronic bikes and scooters.

However, “Keep the Wreath Red” dates back to a time before high-tech toys topped holiday gift lists. It

“The

Fire Department is always looking for ways to minimize risks in our community, and this program really helps us do that.”

- MATT DALY, HINSDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT

originated in 1954, the brainchild of a part-time fire lieutenant in Naperville. The program rose in popularity after the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association adopted it in 1980.

The Hinsdale Fire Department has participated in the “Keep the Wreath Red” program annually since 1980. Starting on Thanksgiving Day, the HFD hangs a wreath with the campaign’s signature red lights.

“The program is a visual reminder to visitors, residents and business owners to be mindful of their holiday

decorations and other risks associated with the season,” Matt Daly, Assistant to the Fire Chief in Hinsdale, said. “The Fire Department is always looking for ways to minimize risks in our community, and this program really helps us do that.”

Jana Krausfeldt, Communication Specialist for the City of Elmhurst, explained that both of Elmhurst’s fire stations also display wreaths as part of the “Keep the Wreath Red” campaign. Likewise, Downers Grove’s four fire stations display an initially fully red-lit wreath, which remains in place through January 1. “The Fire Department asks that residents do their part to practice fire safety during the holiday months,” Doug Kozlowski, Communication Director for the Village of Downers Grove, said.

While not all local fire departments participate in the “Keep the Wreath Red” program, they universally promote fire-safe practices – at the

holidays and always. For example, the Fire Department for the Village of Oak Brook. Kevin Fleege, Oak Brook’s Fire Chief, said, “Although the holiday season should be one filled with joy, festivities, family and friends… [it] can also present additional fire risks that can quickly turn the season in an unfortunate direction.”

He recommends increased vigilance at this time of year, including choosing flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations; using clips rather than nails or staples to hang holiday lights to prevent cord damage; unplugging a lit tree before leaving home or going to bed; and disposing of live trees soon after

Christmas, as - according to the National Fire Protection Association - 35 percent of Christmas tree fires occur in January.

Below is additional guidance from the Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, and Oak Brook Fire Departments to help ensure the only open fires this season are those meant for roasting chestnuts. ■

Top Tips for Fire−Free Festivities

CHRISTMAS TREES & HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

• If decorating with a live Christmas tree, choose one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

• Check the water level on live trees daily.

• Keep live trees at least three feet from any heat source.

• Do not allow trees to block any exit paths in the home.

• No more than three strings of lights should be connected for use on trees.

• Make sure outdoor decorations and lights are approved for outdoor use.

FIREPLACE & CANDLE USE

• Have fireplaces cleaned and inspected before using them for the season.

• Always confirm the flue is open before starting a fire in a fireplace.

• Do not burn any foreign objects in fireplaces.

• Always use a fireplace screen.

• Never leave candles unattended or near flammable materials.

• Keep lit candles out of reach of children and pets.

ELECTRICAL CORDS

• Use UL-rated power strips with surge protection when plugging in multiple devices or decorations.

• Do not overload extension cords or outlets with excessive holiday lights.

• Replace old or damaged extension cords.

• Do not run electrical cords under rugs, past doorways, or wrap them around furniture.

LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

• Follow manufacturer directions regarding charging and replacing batteries for electric bikes, scooters, etc.

• Avoid charging batteries in living spaces, and charge on hard, non-flammable surfaces.

• Batteries should not be disposed of in the garbage. Check with your hardware store for battery collection service information.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Remain in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.

• Never pour water on a grease fire.

• Make sure you have a working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm on each level of the home, especially outside sleeping areas.

• Keep the areas around your furnace, hot water heater, electrical panel, and other utilities free from boxes and storage.

• Never store flammable liquids or combustible liquids inside near utilities.

• Have an evacuation plan and call 911 in case of fire emergency. Do not delay!

Gather TOGETHER

Seasonal tablescape inspiration to carry you from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF

The holiday season is as much about gathering around the table as it is about the meal itself. A thoughtfully styled tablescape sets the stage, adding a touch of magic to every celebration. From the golden glow of Thanksgiving to the sparkling glamour of New Year’s Eve, these inspired looks transform an ordinary table into a memorable centerpiece for the season. Whether your style leans rustic and cozy, crisp and sophisticated, or bold and modern, here are four festive designs to bring your holiday table to life.

HARVEST LUXE THANKSGIVING

For Thanksgiving, think cozy elegance with a harvest-inspired palette. A soft taupe tablecloth and velvet runner provide the backdrop for white and green pumpkins nestled into greenery. Brass candlesticks add a warm glow, while amber glass goblets and personalized pumpkins at each place make the gathering feel both stylish and heartfelt.

• BASE: Soft taupe or cream linen tablecloth with a rust-colored velvet runner.

• CENTERPIECE: A mix of white and green pumpkins, tucked into a low garland of eucalyptus and

magnolia leaves. Interspersed with brass candlesticks holding tall ivory tapers.

• PLACE SETTINGS: Woven chargers, ivory plates with gold rims, amber glass goblets. Napkins tied with velvet ribbon and a sprig of rosemary.

• PERSONAL TOUCH: Mini pumpkin at each seat with the guest’s name calligraphed on it.

WINTER WHITE ELEGANCE

This look is all about crisp sophistication. A gauzy runner over a white linen table sets the stage for frosted roses, hydrangeas, and pinecones

accented by mercury glass votives. Silver chargers and crystal stemware create a polished finish, while vases filled with cranberries and floating candles add festive pops of red.

• BASE: Crisp white tablecloth with a sheer gauzy runner.

• CENTERPIECE: Long, low arrangement of white roses, hydrangeas, and pinecones lightly dusted with faux snow. Add mercury glass votives and silver taper holders.

• PLACE SETTINGS: White China layered with silver chargers. Crystal stemware for wine and water. Linen napkins knotted and topped with a small silver ornament as the name card.

• ACCENT: Clear glass vases filled with cranberries and floating candles down the middle for pops of red.

RUSTIC LODGE CHRISTMAS

Channel the charm of a cozy cabin with this festive design. A bare wooden table or plaid runner anchors evergreen boughs, pinecones, and lanterns, while fairy lights weave in soft sparkle. Stoneware plates, plaid napkins, and mason jar glasses create a relaxed atmosphere, complemented by gingerbread cookies as sweet take-home favors.

• BASE: Dark wooden table bare (or plaid runner down the center in deep green and red).

• CENTERPIECE: Evergreen boughs, pinecones, and small lanterns with flickering LED

candles. Add strings of fairy lights tucked into the greenery.

• PLACE SETTINGS: Stoneware plates stacked with plaid napkins tucked under. Mason jar glasses with cinnamon stick stirrers.

• PERSONAL TOUCH: Gingerbread cookie tied with twine at each place as a sweet take-home favor.

tucked-in sparkler and mini champagne bottle at each seat make the countdown feel extra celebratory.

• BASE: Black linen tablecloth with a sequin or metallic runner.

• CENTERPIECE: A mirrored tray holding clusters of champagne flutes, disco ball ornaments, and tall black candles in sleek holders. Sprinkle metallic confetti around.

MODERN METALLIC NEW YEAR’S

Ring in the New Year with sleek glamour. A black tablecloth and shimmering runner form the base for a mirrored tray of candles, champagne flutes, and disco ball ornaments. Black plates with gold flatware set a dramatic tone, while a

• PLACE SETTINGS: Matte black plates with gold flatware. Napkins folded with a tucked-in sparkler to light at midnight.

• ACCENT: Mini bottles of champagne at each setting with custom “Cheers, 2026!” tags. ■

TITANIC 40 YEARS AFTER DISCOVERY

A deeper dive into the mission that yielded one of the century’s great discoveries

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

The location of the RMS Titanic – the largest and most opulent passenger steamship of its day – was one of the great mysteries of the twentieth century. The ship set sail from Southampton, England, on April 10, 1912, and was supposed to land in New York a week later. Four days into the voyage, however, the ship’s starboard side struck an iceberg in the middle of the night. Only 700 passengers of the 2500 onboard made it to the lifeboats. They were eventually rescued by the RMS Carpathia. The rest perished in the tragedy.

Although several expeditions tried to find the Titanic, she remained undisturbed at the bottom of the North Atlantic for more than seven decades.

There’s an old adage about luck favoring the one who is prepared. It’s likely Dr. Robert Ballard, oceanographer and retired Navy intelligence officer, concurs. In late August 1985,

Ballard and his team of scientists set sail on a top-secret naval assignment to locate two missing nuclear submarines – the Scorpion and the Thresher.

It was a crucial moment in time. As the Cold War silently raged in the background, the US feared the Soviets would find the subs.

To cover the mission’s real purpose, Ballard said he and his team were searching for the long-lost RMS Titanic, which was believed to have been nearby to the missing vessels.

The irony was, they found it.

Around 1.00 a.m. on September 1st, 1985, exactly the time of night the Titanic had sunk 73 years earlier, Ballard and his crew began to see debris from the lost ship, starting with a boiler. The

telltale piece designed specifically for the Titanic and its sister ships, the Olympic and Britannic, provided the definitive clue.

The mission took its own place in history as one of the great discoveries of the twentieth century.

But it almost didn’t happen. Once the Scorpion and the Thresher were accounted for, Ballard and his team were given permission by the Navy to look for the Titanic, but little time remained before the scientists were due back in port. Serendipitously, the Titanic ended up being located in the middle of the two nuclear subs. The final resting place was determined to be 12,000 feet below the Atlantic’s surface, almost 400 miles off the coast of Newfoundland.

According to Ballard, the credit for finding the ship belongs to many, such as the oceanographer’s longtime friend and co-leader of the expedition, French scientist JeanLouis Michel. Over the years, the French had organized their own missions in search of the Titanic. Michel invented the sonar system that photographed the ocean floor, which was crucial to viewing objects.

Interestingly, Ballard also believes that having dyslexia helped with solving the mystery of the missing ship. Looking at the expedition from all angles was crucial. He described the hyper visual and spatial awareness afforded by dyslexia, which allowed his mind to create a 3D mental model of the underwater environment in which they were searching.

After Ballard returned home from the successful mission in the fall of 1985, his desk was covered in letters from kids all over the world. Many wanted to know how they could become scientists and make big discoveries. While Ballard always reminds kids to study hard, he decided to create a hands-on method of learning in the JASON Project, a non-profit interactive program.

Students can be in real-world situations where they are guided by STEM professionals, where they can not only join Ballard on his expeditions but also be virtually transported to the Galapagos or Amazon rainforest.

For someone who has built such a storied - albeit largely underwater –career, Ballard was born in landlocked Wichita, Kansas, in 1943. His fascination with the ocean began when the family moved to San Diego, where he grew up in a home about 100 yards from the water.

Ballard’s graduation from the University of California, Santa Barbara distinguished him as the first in his family to graduate from college. He then earned a Master of Science in Geophysics from the University of Hawaii. Ballard served in both the Army and Navy before being assigned to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Research Institute on Cape Cod.

For this pioneer in deep-sea archeology, the Titanic isn’t the only feather in his cap. Ballard has logged more than 150 expeditions. His exploration flagship, the Nautilus, predictably bears the moniker of the storybook submarine from Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Other career finds include the Nazi warship the Bismarck, the British ocean liner Lusitania, the

USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, and the PT–109 boat commanded by John F. Kennedy during World War II. There have been many other ships and artifacts in the Black Sea.

Now at 83 years young, Ballard continues to serve academia as a college professor at the University of Rhode Island. He has received many honors and awards for his discoveries, including the Lindbergh Award, the Explorers Medal and the Hubbard Medal of the National Geographic Society.

His DEEP SEA – Deep Experimental Exploration Program in Science, Engineering and Art is a program of activities to promote ocean awareness through a multisensory approach, especially for kids with dyslexia. Ballard looks to the future through his Ocean Exploration Trust, which will keep his work moving forward in his exploration of the deep corners of the ocean for years to come.

Finding Titanic: The Secret Mission is a traveling exhibition produced by Flying Fish in collaboration with Ocean Exploration Trust and generously sponsored by the Office of Naval Research and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It is currently open at the Peoria Riverfront Museum through January 24, 2026. Visit peoriariverfrontmuseum.org for more information ■

Where Belonging Takes CENTER STAGE

Why Supporting Local Performing Venues is More Personal Than You Think

When Tim Soszko stepped onto the stage for the first time, he wasn’t chasing applause. He was just trying to survive high school.

As a shy, introverted hermit at York High, Tim didn’t know he was creative let alone that it could be a strength. Then, he auditioned for The Pirates of Penzance and landed a role.

“My world exploded,” he says. “I found on stage; I could be as silly and imaginative as I wanted. All the stuff that made me feel weird in real life—became my superpower.”

And when the audience clapped? It changed him.

But it wasn’t just applause. It was the discovery of a tribe.

“All of a sudden, there were other people like me. I belonged.”

As an adult, Tim mentors the youth through programs like Elmhurst Children’s Theatre and The Laughing Academy. He looks for kids like his younger self - the misfits who haven’t yet found themselves. And he tells them: “If you feel like you don’t belong, come here. You will.”

ARTS HEAL US

Tim’s story isn’t unique—and performing arts opportunities and venues keep making stories like his possible.

According to Americans for the Arts, 86% of people say they’d feel devastated if their local arts venues

BY LAURA MICHAUD & MELISSA G. WILSON

disappeared. These aren’t just theaters. They’re lifelines.

WHY VENUES MATTER—HEALING, DISCOVERY, CONNECTION

Just as medical centers heal bodies, performances heal in powerful ways.

• 60% of Americans say the arts help them cope with emotional stress.

• 78% say the performing arts bring something positive to a troubled world.

• 71% find “pure pleasure” in arts experiences -rare with today’s anxiety.

And it extends beyond personal wellbeing.

• Half of U.S. workers say their arts education helps them in their jobs.

• 61% say creativity contributed to their success at work.

A PLACE TO COME TOGETHER

In today’s divided world, nonprofit venues help bridge differences. People listen together. Laugh and feel something—together.

• 72% say they create shared experiences across race and belief.

• 73% say they help us understand other cultures.

• Where local venues exist, 89% of residents feel pride in their community.

These spaces more than entertain; They connect. They heal. They inspire.

FUNDING MORE THAN A SHOW

When you support a nonprofit performing venue, you’re investing in the kid who doesn’t fit in—yet. In the audience, somebody who hasn’t smiled all week. In the community that feels more like a community because of a shared experience.

Americans are already leaning in. In 2024, giving to arts and culture hit an all-time high—up 9.5%, as Americans donated $592 billion across causes. The momentum is real. And the impact? Personal.

THE NEXT ACT BELONGS TO US Tim found his voice on stage. Thousands more could too—if the stage stays lit.

This season, as you think about where to give, think about the places that give back. Because somewhere, there’s another Tim. Waiting in the wings hoping the lights don’t go out. ■

About the authors: Laura Michaud is a founding member of the Encore Center for Performing Arts and Stage 773. Melissa G. Wilson is a performing arts enthusiast, author, and renowned networker. For more information visit EncoreCenterforPerformingArts.org

Time Well Spent

Finding meaningful ways to serve your

community

The not-for-profit industry often refers to an organization’s reliance on people’s time, talent and treasure to enact its mission.

At this time last year, I wrote an article about “treasure” in conjunction with year-end giving. This year, let’s take a look at a potential New Year’s resolution: volunteering, where people can employ their time and talent.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps, nearly 30% of Americans volunteer in a formal capacity and slightly more than half of Americans do so informally by helping neighbors and friends.

BY DAVE MCGOWAN

Security and Emergency Management, which works with several area volunteer groups (dupagecounty.gov).

If you want to broaden your options beyond DuPage, Hands on Suburban Chicago (handsonsuburbanchicago. org) and Idealist (idealist.org) can also help you find an opportunity that aligns with your interests and an organization’s needs.

Don’t forget, most communities have a robust infrastructure of service clubs like Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, Women’s Club, etc. Visit the websites of these

Before diving in, ask yourself a few key questions:

• How much time do I have to offer?

• Can the organization rely on me?

• Can I make a long-term commitment?

• Do I want to work directly with the organization’s clients, or would I be better placed supporting the organization’s staff?

“At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished…it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”

Here is a guide to some organizations that can help you find something that best fits your interests and matches your talent with an organization’s needs.

First, explore your options with the DuPage County Office of Homeland

— DENZEL WASHINGTON

international organizations to find a club near you. You can also use your local community foundation (cof.org) or United Way (unitedway.org) to volunteer for them, or they can refer you to organizations in their service area.

Ultimately, select an organization whose mission aligns with your values. Then, identify the skills, knowledge and time you have to offer. Suppose you are interested in feeding people in need but find it too difficult to staff a front-line food distribution event. In that case, you can consider being a driver who participates in “food rescue” from local grocery stores. If you don’t wish to fundraise, a board position may not be for you.

Volunteering is even more rewarding when shared. Bring a friend, involve your family, or simply let your kids see you in action — those experiences will shape their own commitment to community as adults. ■

Dave McGowan has been a Chicago-area not-for-profit executive since November, 1981. He is a certified fundraising executive who retired from DuPage Foundation after 25 years in December, 2022, before starting a consulting practice serving donors, their advisors, and the not-for-profits they support. Dave can be reached at dave@ davemcgowanconsulting.com.

Brook Forest Elementary Ribbon Cutting

On Monday, August 18, Brook Forest Elementary officially unveiled its new, fully accessible playground in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Families, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate inclusive design that enables play for all students. The project was made possible by community fundraising, with support from the school’s PTO, sponsors, and donors.

Juliette Skinner, Gwen Skinner, Maeve Scheid, Mikey Scheid, Jenna Pesek ➁ Trustee Naveen Jain, Dr. Andrea Prola, Reynick Martinez, Dr. Paul O’Malley, Seana Scheid, Jen Skinner, Kavitha Neerukonda ➂ Reynick Martinez, Dr. Paul O’Malley, Dr. Andrea Prola and students of Brook Forest ➃ Jen Skinner, Jackie Pesek, Seana Scheid ➄ Anthony Pesek, Leah Carter, Reynick Martinez, Dr. Andrea Prola, Dr. Paul O’Malley, Nella Sansguiri, Seana Scheid, Zareena Khader, Brittany Grant, Funke Pickering, Jen Skinner ➅ Carolina Rocca and Alan Rocca

Women of Oak Brook

The Women of Oak Brook recently hosted Amalfi Nights at Labriola Ristorante — a lively evening of community, philanthropy, and coastal chic flair. With 90 guests in attendance, the event raised nearly $2,000 to support SEASPAR, which provides recreation programs and services for individuals with disabilities. Guests also donated 50 much-needed household items from SEASPAR’s wish list. The night featured an Italian buffet, raffle prizes, and plenty of time to mingle. Learn more about this dynamic social and philanthropic group at womenofoakbrook.org.

Oak Brook International Festival

Oak Brook hosted its second annual International Festival on Sept. 14 at the Bath & Tennis Club, celebrating the village’s cultural diversity. Residents representing nine countries organized exhibits, entertainment, and food vendors highlighting their heritage. The event featured live performances, cultural tents, raffles, and activities such as mehndi and calligraphy.