PHOTOS: Matt Boltz, Engineer, Chicago Cubs Radio - Wordspecs

PHOTOS: Matt Boltz, Engineer, Chicago Cubs Radio 

HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

508 Central Avenue, Suite 206 

Highland Park, Illinois 60035 

PRSRT STD 

U.S. Postage 

PAID 

Highland Park, IL 

Permit No. 72

Let’s face it, it’s the people that really matter. 

At Highland Park Bank & Trust our 

employees know that you matter the most. 

Personal Bankers: Our personal 

bankers are available to serve you from early morning until 

early evening. They’re ready to help you when you walk 

through our doors with any of your banking needs. You’ll 

receive the friendly hometown service you deserve with a 

smile. And, you won’t wait in lines at our bank. Come in 

for a visit and let our personal bankers have the chance to 

meet you. 

The First and Only Checking Account 

You’ll Ever Need! 

Rachel 

Meryl 

Ruth 

Holly 

Dennis 

• Interest bearing checking 

where your rate increases 

with your balance. Earn up to 

3.10% APY 1 ! 

• No minimum deposit to open, 

no monthly service charges 2 

• Free online banking, telebanking 

and online bill pay 

• Your first 150 checks are 

free 

• Free imaged checks with 

CheckManager Plus ® 

• Access to over 500 STAR ® sf 

surcharge FREE ATM locations 

in the Chicagoland 

area 

• Free Visa ® credit card 3 

and no extra-fee STAR ® sf 

ATM card or Visa ® debit 

card 4 

Highland Park 

1949 St. Johns Avenue 

Highland Park, IL 60035 

847-432-9988 

Drive-Thru/Walk-Up 


Highland Park - Ravinia 

643 Roger Williams Avenue 


847-266-0300 

Stop by today and see one of our personal bankers. They’re 

ready to show you why SingleSolution Checking is the only 

checking account you’ll ever need! 

1. APY is Annual Percentage Yield. Tiered variable interest rates based on account balance. 

$0-799 = 0.00% APY, $800-1,999 = 0.25% APY, $2,000-9,999 = 1.00% APY, $10,000-49,999 = 2.00% 

APY, $50,000-99,999 = 2.75% APY, $100,000+ = 3.10% APY. New money only. See bank for details. 

APY is accurate as of 6/26/07. Rates are variable and subject to change. 2. No service charges if a 

minimum balance of $400 is maintained. If account balance falls below $400, a $10 monthly service 

charge will apply. Fees may reduce earnings. 3. Pending application approval, requires usage. 4. 

Fees may be imposed by other ATM owners. 

www.highlandparkbank.com 

©2007 Highland Park Bank & Trust 

MEMBER FDIC

HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

www.ehighlandpark.com 

508 Central Avenue, Suite 206 

Highland Park, Illinois 60035 

847-432-0284 fax 847-432-2802 

60035@ehighlandpark.com 

Virginia Anzelmo Glasner, Executive Director 

Carol Caris, Office Manager 

Alycia Margolis, Staff 

OFFICERS 

President Bill Baker, 

Saks Fifth Avenue 

1st Vice-President Sandy Saldano, 

Therapeutic Kneads 

Vice-President Kathryn Govas, 

Metropolitan Café 

Immediate Past Co-Presidents 

Sandy McCraren, Highland Park Bank & Trust 

Judy Rosenbloom, The Treasure Chest 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Scott Adams, National City Bank 

Nicolas DeGrazia, Bitter Jester Creative, Inc. 

Eve Del Monte, Prosumer Real Estate 

Brian Lewis, Baizer & Kolar 

Daniel Marder, Making Glass 

George Markoutsas, The ABL Group 

Carolyn Rikje, SEE Eyewear 

Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance Agency 

Mark Williams, Williams All Seasons 

Jennifer Wood, Ravinia Festival 

EX-OFFICIO 

Steve Mandel, City Council Liaison 

Steve Meyer, Park District of H.P. 

Ester Viti, Viti Financial 

© 2007 six00threefive is published quarterly 

to promote Highland Park’s diverse business 

community. 

This project underwritten in part by the 

CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK 

www.cityhpil.com 

1707 St. Johns Ave. 


847-432-0800 

Mayor Michael D. Belsky 

Councilman Michael Brenner 

Councilman Steven Mandel 

Councilwoman Terri Olian 

Councilman Jim Kirsch 

Councilman Larry Silberman 

Councilman Scott Levenfeld 

THE GIFT NO ONE ELSE CAN GIVE BUT YOU 

DESIGN AND EDITORIAL 

Deborah Barry, Wordspecs, Executive Editor, 

deborah@wordspecs.com 

Richard Greb, Associate Editor, rgreb@aol.com 

Abbe Sparks, Story Editor, asparks01@comcast.net 

HIGHLAND PARK, IL • 847.831.3220 

www.michaelmetzger.com

introducing 

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Kinsley Design Group 

We’re all about style and function… 

Introducing pegRail, an innovative new product to add functionality to your home. 

Available only at Kinsley Design Group, pegRail is 

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kitchen, home office and bath solutions that will 

provide practically unlimited options for you. Let a 

Kinsley Design professional introduce you to 

pegRAIL and their other complete line of services 

and fine products. 

Don’t know where to start We also work closely 

with you to achieve your organizational style. 

Contact Kinsley Design Group today to turn your vision into reality. 

FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION WE PROVIDE: 

•Complete design services 

•Project management and installation 

•Extensive custom and stock cabinetry 

•Countertops and backsplash materials 

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T 847-681-1433 

F 847-681-1441 

W www.kinsleydesigngroup.com 

3330 Skokie Valley Road, Suite 102 

Highland Park, IL 60035

On Our Cover 

This Young Cub: 

Cory Provus . . . . . . . . . . . .36 

Features 

Pride of Place: 

New Police Headquarters . . . . . .12 

The Out-of-Towners . . . . . . . . . .18 

Our Neighborhoods: 

Ravinia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 

YEA! Highland Park Has Heart . . . . .32 

High Time for High Fashion . . . . . .38 

Columns 

Welcome, New Members . . . . . . . .8 

Contractors’ Corner . . . . . . . . . .16 

New to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 

Chef’s Day Off . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 

Speaking Professionally . . . . . . . .28 

The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 

HPinfo 

Looking at Art with Children . . . . . .6 

Business Bookmarks for Your Browser .25 

Five Questions About Buying Health 

Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 

Reach Our Columnists 

“Professionally Speaking,” to announce 

honors, awards, new staff, anniversaries for 

professional, service and non-profit 

organizations: 

Wes Wenk . . . . .wes@wenkinsurance.com 

“Contractors’ Corner,” news of our fine 

building, designing, mechanical and 

contracting professionals: 

David Ariano . . . . .info@raviniaplumbing.com 

“Chef’s Day Off,” about our restaurants, 

fast-food, catering and food purveyors: 

Jim Lederer . . . . . . . .jim@bluegrasshp.com 

“New to You,” retail and wholesale 

business news and products new or unique 

in Highland Park: 

Richard Greb . . . . . . . . . . .rgreb@aol.com 

Write Now! 

Get an assignment or submit your story idea: 

. . . . . . . .frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com 

FREE $ 100 

Gift Card 

Celebrating our 10th Year… 

Buy a package of 10 one-hour massages 

or any lypossage series, receive a $100 Gift Card 

for yourself, or for someone in “knead.” 

We now carry the full line of Dermalogica Skin Care Products 

We do ask that you mention six00threefive 

magazine to benefit from this offer. Free Gift 

Card is good on future new purchases of any 

service or product, and may be transferred. 

Offer exp. 9/30/07. 

Watch for the the completion of our beautiful new 

Massage Therapy Center at 1779 Green Bay 

m 9-8 | tu 9-7 | w 9-8 | th 9-8 | f 9-6 | sa 9-5 | su 9-5 

Just east of HP Bank & Trust 

480 Elm Place, Suite 105B 

Highland Park 

You may also buy Gift Cards 

in any denomination 

in person, by phone 

or on our web site. 

IL State Lic. No. 227-001829 

847-266-0131 

WeKneadYou.com 

Printed on Recycled Paper 

Fall 2007 / 3

SAVE THE DATE! 

fashion week 

September 23 - 29 

HIGHLAND PARK 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Tuesday, September 25th: 

"SPOTLIGHT ON FASHION" 

COCKTAIL PARTY 

The Art Center Highland Park, 

1957 Sheridan Road, 5:30-8:00pm 

Informal modeling, cocktails & 

hors d'oeuvres, Ticket price $30 

Sponsored by North Shore Magazine 

Friday, September 28th: 

"HIGH TIME HIGH FASHION" 

SHOW & LUNCHEON 

Highland Park Country Club, 

1201 Park Avenue West, 12:00-2:00pm 

Runway fashion show and lunch, 

Ticket price $60 

Special events will be happening all week long. 

• In-store special events held at participating Fashion Week merchants. 

• And, just for fun, bring your fashionable Fido to "Bark at the Bank" Dog Fashion 

Show at Highland Park Bank & Trust, Sunday, September 23, 1:30-3:00pm. 

For information, contact Highland Park Bank & Trust at (847) 432-9988. 

RESERVE YOUR PLACE 

Please call the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce at (847) 432-0284, visit 

www.ehighlandpark.com, or e-mail frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com.

Index of Advertisers 

The ABL Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 

Amdur Productions/ 

Port Clinton Art Fest . . . . . . .back cover 

Becker Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 

Bella Via . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 

Bluegrass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 

The Bootery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 

Cosí . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 

Courtyard by Marriott . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 

The Custom Framer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 

D&R Autoworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 

District 112 Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . .34 

ENH – HP Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 

Extra Space Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 

Farmers Ins./ 

Michael Maione Ins. . . . . . . . . . . . .27 

Highland Park Chamber of Commerce/ 

Fashion Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 

Gordons Salons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 

Gottlieb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 

Highland Park Bank & Trust . . . .inside front 

Highland Park Bank & Trust . . . . . . . . .25 

Highland Park Community House . . . . . .27 

Keyth Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 

Kinsley Design Group . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 

Laurel Park/Metropolitan Dev. . .inside back 

Making Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 

Michael Metzger Photography . . . . . . . .1 

Molly Maid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 

Paint JAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 

Port Clinton Square . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 

Prosumer Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 

Ravinia Plumbing & Heating . . . . . . . . .15 

Smugglers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 

State Farm/Palminteri Ins. Agency . . . . .17 

Therapeutic Kneads . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 

Wenk Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 

Williams Ski/Bernhardt . . . . . . . . . . . .9 

Advertising Information 

six00threefive magazine is published quarterly 

and mailed to all the homes and businesses in 

Highland Park, Highwood and Town of Fort 

Sheridan. To receive a complete Media Kit, 

please call the Highland Park Chamber of 

Commerce, 847-432-0284 or email 

chamber@ehighlandpark.com. 

Back Issues 

Read six00threefive online: Visit the Chamber 

website, ehighlandpark.com, and click on the 

“News” link. Or call 847-432-0284. 

Photo Credits HNK Architectural Photography

Chamber professionals offer expertise you can use today 

Looking at art with children 

Amy Amdur, Amdur Productions 

Yes, even very young children can enjoy public museums, galleries and art 

festivals, and adults can love taking kids along. All it takes is a little planning 

and a little patience. Here are the top tips for making your art outing a 

success, and for feeling comfortable that your young art lovers are welcome 

and well cared for at an art festival, private gallery or public museum. 

Before you go 

Encourage kids to be artists themselves. Using images from web 

sites and the upcoming exhibit itself, engage the children in making their own 

art. Simple crayon drawings and paintings on big pieces of paper stimulate 

their use of line, shape and texture. White paper is standard, but amazing 

results can be obtained painting on black paper too. Children can use brushes, 

and for those not too squeamish, encourage them to use hands to paint. 

Review the festival program. Many show schedules are posted in 

advance online. Look for preplanned, hands-on activities for children; time 

your own activities to coordinate with special young peoples’ opportunities. 

Also, review the “house rules” as far as using strollers, cameras, bottled 

water and the like. Check where restrooms and kids’ areas are. 

Back to basics. Necessities include bottled water, comfortable shoes and 

dry snacks. Infants do well in carriers so that they are at eye level with the 

art. Young toddlers do well in reclining strollers. For outdoor events, sun 

screen, sunglasses and hats are a must. Pull-along wagons and snap-on 

umbrellas are a great idea for 3-5 year olds. 

While you’re there 

Make a game of it. Suggest a color or animal “treasure hunt.” Children 

can search for colors they can already name; older children are challenged 

to find “new” colors like turquoise or magenta. Similar games can be played 

looking for shapes (circles, triangles, squares), plants and everyday objects— 

a house, a boat, a ball. (Port Clinton Art Festival offers “Art Fest Bingo.”) 

Be resourceful. At a gallery or museum, you can often purchase 

illustrative postcards prior to entering an exhibit. (You may also find show 

images online.) Give them to the children, and ask them to look for those 

images throughout the show. 

Talk about how the art makes them feel: happy, sad, surprised, 

amused. There are no wrong answers; it’s all about seeing and then talking 

about what you see. 

Stop when the kids stop. Allow children to linger, notice what 

fascinates them, and enjoy their interest. Let them show you what 

captivates their young eyes and minds. Maybe you won’t get through the 

entire exhibit, but neither you nor your children will ever forget a work of 

art you paused to appreciate together. 

Take Breaks. All youngsters need a break from time to time…that’s why 

knowing where to find art demonstration areas, food areas, live music and 

other family-friendly rest areas is so important. 

Sustain their excitement 

Painting Interior/Exterior 

Restoration 

Older home care 

Plaster and drywall 

Wall coverings 

Decorative finishes, murals 

Bath Remodeling 

Kitchen Remodeling 

Construction…all phases 

847 926 9476 

www.paintjar.com 

Continue art activities at home. Children enjoy keeping sketch pads. Look 

into enrolling your child in a local art program; many great classes are 

available for children of all ages. Visit the many great art museums in our 

area. Remember to make art a year-round highlight for your child, and 

watch their creativity blossom into a rewarding pursuit. 

The goal is for you and your children to enjoy experiencing art. You may 

be surprised what catches their eyes and keeps their minds whirling in 

delight. They may lead you to see art in a whole new way. 

If you love visual arts, share your passion with your children and 

grandchildren. Children can learn to appreciate art with your loving 

guidance. Youngsters are our future artists and patrons. 

Amy Amdur, who takes her own two children everywhere, is 

president of Amdur Productions, the 24-year-old festival 

production company that mounts the Port Clinton Art Festival, 

Gold Coast Art Fair and many other nationally recognized art 

events. She is also the owner of Amdur Gallery, 2071 Tower 

Drive, Glenview, IL. For more information, visit 

amdurproductions.com or call 847-926-4300. 

6 / Fall 2007

Outfit your family for winter fun 

Whether you ski or snowboard…and want the latest fashion or 

the best high-tech function, Williams ski haus has the best selection 

One stop shopping for the whole family with friendly winter sports 

enthusiasts to help you 

Home of the Snowflake Club…learn with us, have fun for a lifetime 

www.williamsskihaus.com 

We offer… Decorating advice 

Outstanding service 

New collections arriving all the time 

Total home resource… 

Traditional or modern, bedroom, dining, 

living and family room 

www.bernhardthomefurniture.com 

847-831-4300 Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30, Thurs ’til 8, Sun 12-5 847-831-4300 

On the frontage road in Highland Park. Take the Deerfield Road West exit off Edens (Hwy. 41) 

Fall 2007 / 7

As of August 1, 2007 

Welcome, New Members 

Reward the businesses that commit to our 

local economy. Call 847-432-0284 for a 

Chamber membership kit or to be referred 

to a local business, or browse an up-to-date 

directory at www.ehighlandpark.com. 

Fidelity Investments – Highland Park 

Financial services firm helping 

individuals and business owners with 

retirement planning and all types of 

investments 

One Skokie Valley Road, HP 

847-853-0583 x54413 

www.fidelity.com 

Annie Sez – Highland Park 

Stephen Sterling 

Famous name brands at famously low 

prices for women’s apparel, shoes, 

accessories, lingerie and home décor. 

171 Skokie Valley Road, HP 

847-831-0777 

www.anniesez.com 

Studio Sans Pareil 

Cristy Wilson 

Unique children’s boutique that outfits 

newborns to pre-teens. Gifts, shoes and 

hair accessories. 

1898 Sheridan Road, HP 

847-926-9524 

www.studiosanspareil.com 

Table Compliments LLC 

Judy Sider 

Decorative and functional tableware 

482 Central Avenue, HP 

847-579-4878 

www.tablecompliments.com 

Jennifer Mordini Photographer, Inc. 

Jennifer Mordini 

Portrait photographer specializing in 

weddings and pets 

1292 Old Skokie Road, 2nd Floor, HP 

847-579-9663 

www.jennifermordini.com 

Techline Studio 

Jacqueline Scheck, Senior 

Designer/Manager 

Design and retail sales of office 

furniture for home and business 

597 Elm Place, HP 

847-432-8833 

www.techlinechicago.com 

North Shore Retirement Hotel 

Margaret A. Gergen, General Manager 

Independent senior living/retirement 

community with assisted living support 

services available through on-site 

wellness center. 

1611 Chicago Avenue, Evanston 60201 

847-864-6400 

www.retirementhotel.com 

Highland Health Foods, Inc. 

Pablo Alcantara, General Manager 

Natural food supplements, vitamins, 

sport supplements, natural cosmetics, 

gluten-free products, fish oil and over 

100 brands of natural or nutrition food 

supplements. 

149 Skokie Valley Road, HP 

847-831-0460 

Eyeland of St. Johns 

Steve Burek, Manager 

Designer prescription eyewear and chic, 

well-crafted sunglasses. 

1819 St. Johns Avenue, HP 

847-266-6400 

www.eyelandofstjohns.com 

Bleachy Keen, Inc. 

Rebecca Grodner 

One-of-a-kind handmade artwear and 

decoration including shirts, pillows, 

children and baby clothes—all made 

through a special bleaching process. 

1850 Southland Avenue, HP 

847-687-0707 

www.bleachykeen.com 

Country Insurance & Financial Services – 

Jenny Evers 

Jenny Evers, Agent 

Specializes in all lines of insurance 

including life insurance that helps you 

reach your financial goals. 

1838 Waukegan Road, Glenview, 60025 

847-486-8954 

www.countryfinancial.com 

Total Selling Solutions 

Jill Kirshenbaum 

A Sandler Sales Institute franchise 

offering unique sales and sales 

management solutions to the challenges 

faced by sales people, sales managers, 

owners and other professionals who 

must build a client base. 

5 Revere Drive, Suite 103, Northbrook 60062 

847-513-6260 

www.totalsellingsolutions.com 

Moraine Township 

Mari Barnes, Township Supervisor 

Moraine Township serves 33,000 resident 

of Highwood, HP, east LF and a small 

section of DF. The primary Township 

functions are: property assessment, 

general assistance, cemetery 

maintenance and voter services. They 

also maintain a food pantry, clothing 

pantry, plants garden project, registration 

for RTA senior passes, taxi and vanpool 

programs. Public funds are administered 

to provide responsive, efficient and 

compassionate services and support for 

residents in need. 


847-432-3240 

www.morainetownship.org 

Stacey Portugal, LLC 

Stacey Portugal, Owner 

Primary focus is on administrative 

professionals in the legal field and other 

areas of business. 

1855 Clavey Road, HP 

847-607-9621 

Go Fish Vintage 

Robin Paull, Debbie Goldstein, Amy Brand, 

Owners 

Vintage designer and couture clothing 

and accessories for women 

716 Central Avenue, 2nd floor, HP 

847-370-4729 

www.gofishvintage.com 

Human Air Quality, Inc. 

Scott Rosen, President 

Indoor Air Quality – UVC Germicidal 

systems for central air. 

1358 Sunnyside Avenue, HP 

847-831-4387 

Highland Park/Highwood 

Home Child Care Association 

Jane Talensnick, Coordinator 

Community, quality home child care 

Box 37, HP 

847-604-2956 

www.hphhomechildcare.com 

Red 21 Boys 

Kay Schwartz, Owner 

All boys clothing store, sizes 3 mo. to 

Medium (Size 10-12) 


847-579-4020 

(continued on page 10) 

8 / Fall 2007

FOR FALL 

SHOPPING & FUN 

IT’S ALL THERE 

FREE 

HALLOWEEN 

EVENTS 

• Pony Rides on the Plaza 

• Children’s Train Rides 

• Pumpkins & Decorating 

• Hay Rides 

• Carmel Apple Dipping 

• Trick or Treating & a lot 

more at the Square! 

AT THE SQUARE 

ADESSO 

A PEA IN THE POD 

DAIRY QUEEN 

FLAVORS 

NEW BALANCE NORTH SHORE 

NORTHSHORE COOKERY 

NORTH SUBURBAN WELLNESS 

PORT CLINTON JEWELERS 

STARBUCKS 

STASH’S/GUIDO’S PASTARIA 

STATIONERY STATION 

SUSHI BADAYA 

TALES &TOYS 

THE MALE ROOM 

WALKER BROTHERS 

WAVES HAIR SALON 

PORT CLINTON SQUARE 

THE SQUARE IN THE CENTER OF DOWNTOWN 

HIGHLAND PARK ON CENTRAL AVENUE 

Indoor Parking, 3 Hours Free 

847.433.5306 x10 

www.PortClintonSquare.com

(continued from page 8) 

Northwestern Mutual – 

Debbie Schneiderman 

Debbie Schneiderman, Financial 

Representative 

Financial Services 

5215 Old Orchard Road, #1200,Skokie 60077 

847-663-7013 

Kaleidoscope LifeWorks, LLC 

Anne Rossen, Licensed Clinical 

Professional Counselor 

Counseling and psychotherapy for 

adults, adolescents, couples, and 

families experiencing important 

transitions in their lives or challenges in 

the areas of relationship, emotion, 

behavior, or mood. Respectful, 

collaborative approach. 

484 Central Avenue, Suite 208, HP 

847-433-8733 

Dairy Queen – Highland Park 

Michael Scherer, Owner 

Cakes, desserts, ice cream, other treats 

600 Central Avenue, #113, HP 

847-926-0544 

www.dairyqueen.com 

Notice, Accessories for Living 

Rebecca Barnes, Manager 

The newest destination for hip and 

environmentally friendly accessories 

including photo frames, clocks, jewelry 

and handbags 

2057 Green Bay Road, HP 

847-432-1212 

www.notice_this.com 

CM Financial Corporation 

Kenneth S. Pell, President 

Equipment finance and leasing company 

2333 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn 60015 

847-562-8833 

www.cmfinancial.com 

The Nail Bar 

Laura Bronner, Manager 

Upscale nail and waxing salon, 

upholding the highest levels of 

sanitation and disinfection, and using all 

natural products. 


847-681-2200 

NETWORKING WORKS! 

Meet your colleagues, share your experience and learn from each other how to take 

your business to the next level. Join a Chamber networking group! For location details 

and an opportunity to present your business story, call the Chamber at 847-432-0284 or 

email frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com. See our next issue for a behind-the-scenes 

story of how Highland Park business people do their brand building peer to peer. 

Women’s Networking Group 3rd Thursday 

Highland Park Networking Group, 1st Wednesday 

UGG 

Highland Park 

www.thebootery.com 

Get ready for fall with 

492 Central Avenue 

847.433.1911 

Lake Geneva 

Corner of Broad Street & Main 

262.348.1911 

10 / Fall 2007

You’ll love our service 

the way you love your car 

• Complimentary vehicle pick up and delivery 

• Complimentary loaner vehicles 

• Courtesy rides 

• Late night drop off and pick up 

• Express oil changes, tires and alignments 

• A.S.E. Certified Technicians 

Mon.-Thurs. 7am-8pm Fri. 7am-5:30pm Sat. 8am-2pm 

www.drautoworks.com 

If you only knew how often 

the phone rings… 

We’re moving to 

Highland Park. Can you 

recommend an architect 

and interior designer 

I hear Highland Park 

has the best shops around! 

Do you have a web site 

that lists them 

We want a lovely 

restaurant where we can 

entertain a large group. 

What do you recommend 

847•433•4343 

2366 Skokie Valley Road, Highland Park 

Between Park Ave. and Route 22 on the west side of 41 

I need a plumber 

I can really trust. 

Who should I call 

The next call 

could be for you! 

We refer new customers to our 

Chamber members all day long. 

Join today. You may be just the answer 

our callers are looking for! 

847-432-0284 

508 Central, Suite 206 

www.ehighlandpark.com 

Discover Così 

 

Così began as a café in Paris, France where 

we served hearth-baked flatbread made from 

a recipe discovered in the Tuscany region of 

Italy. Decades later, Così is now proud to be 

a part of the Highland Park community. It 

is here where customers gather to enjoy the 

finest ingredients that make up our signature 

sandwiches, salads and hearth-baked pizzas. 

Alpine Chicken 

Hearth Baked Dinner 

Signature Salad 

Grilled Chicken TBM 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fall 2007 / 11

Pride of Place 

New Police Headquarters 

by Richard Greb 

The mission of the 

Highland Park Police 

Department is to 

safeguard persons and 

property through a 

committed community 

partnership by upholding 

public trust, fostering 

mutual respect and 

providing services to 

enhance the quality of life. 

Standing with its broad shoulders at the western gateway to Highland Park is police headquarters. It was finished on 

budget in just over two years and houses state-of-the-art technologies to preserve public safety and manage 21stcentury 

security challenges. But more important than the architectural details and leading-edge equipment are the 

outstanding individuals who dedicate their careers to our protection and call this their professional home. 

Police Chief Paul Shafer, who joined the The emergency operations center is on the lower level; the HPPD and 

department in 2003 after 22 years with the other agencies regularly conduct training scenarios there. “Our officers are 

Naperville PD, says it’s important that the first responders and, post 9/11, we need to be able to function in any 

building be inviting and comfortable. “We circumstances,” explains Shafer. 

are part of the community, and we now The HPPD employs 82 people, 60 sworn officers and 22 civilian support 

have an appropriate environment to meet personnel. They work in teams, with individuals filling multiple roles. 

the public. This police headquarters fulfills 

Fans of police procedural dramas will recognize the roles of some of our 

our need to continually upgrade 

fine departmental personnel. Community Service Officer (CSO) Jay Morris 

professional services with room to adjust to 

is hardly limited to a ticket book. Morris also spends every second Thursday 

future changes in technology and police 

at the Port Clinton 

procedures.” 

Square garage helping 

The 2.3-acre triangular site is bounded 

parents make sure child 

by Deerfield and Old Deerfield Roads and 

safety seats are properly 

Richfield Avenue. The beautiful Prairie-style structure includes a 

installed. CSOs answer 

maintenance garage efficiently designed to handle both police and fire 

calls about parking 

department vehicles, and adjoins a landscaped parking lot. 

problems anywhere in 

The public lobby opens to records, dispatch and a training and meeting 

Highland Park. They 

room. The rest of the building, closed to the public, includes areas to 

also run a vehicle lockout 

service, take finger 

analyze crimes and major traffic accidents. There are five cells for men, 

three for women, two handicapped accessible and all separately ventilated. 

prints for job screenings, 

Gone are the iconic jail bars, replaced by solid, sliding doors. Gone too are 

adoptions and other 

inky fingerprints—they’re now scanned, and evidence is secured in an 

purposes (free to 

alarmed vault. The dispatch desk with a microphone and telephone is also 

Highland Parkers) and 

history. The latest wireless technology beams rapid, secure messages to 

book non-combative 

computers in every patrol car. 

prisoners. 

PHOTOS: Richard Greb 

12 / Fall 2007

Animal control responsibilities also fall to CSOs, Morris says, with three 

of them trained to handle calls about feral cats, nuisance dogs and wild 

animals like skunks, raccoons, rabbits and deer. They trap the animals or 

provide traps to homeowners. 

CSOs also are Crime Scene Investigators, or CSIs. They work crime 

scenes, collecting evidence, taking photos and creating the evidence packages 

that support the department’s investigators. Collections may include trace 

evidence and toxicology, DNA, fingerprints and computer contents. Evidence 

Morris and his partners gather is carefully tracked from crime scene to crime 

lab, entered on an evidence cataloguing system they refer to as “The Beast” 

and sent to a forensic facility in Vernon Hills for testing. 

The nationally accredited Northern Illinois Police Crime Laboratory 

serves 40 municipalities from Lincolnwood and Skokie to McHenry County. 

Founded in 1968, it is fast, versatile and considered one of the best in the 

country. In addition to working with material from crime scenes, the lab 

can analyze unknown substances, providing reassurance or direction in the 

case of possible terrorist attack. 

Morris has been a full-time CSO for four years. The son of an officer 

who served as a Cook County Sheriff’s deputy, he emphasizes the service 

aspect of his title, saying that even parking enforcement—the most visible 

and sometimes confrontational part of his work—is about education. “We 

try to teach people the reasons for the rules. Parking for too long makes 

area businesses less accessible, and parking poorly can cause accidents. We 

would rather inform than issue a ticket.” 

The outreach of community 

policing is central to Thomas 

Spanos’ idea of law enforcement. 

As the HPPD’s business liaison 

officer, he meets with owners 

and employees to discuss 

financial crimes, collecting bad 

checks, where to position cash 

registers, preventing shoplifting 

and what to do in case of a 

robbery. “Witnesses often 

disagree on details. Seeing a 

crime is a shock; a bit of 

confusion is typical. People may 

confuse what a robber was 

wearing with the clothing of people in the background.” One suggestion for 

crime witnesses: Don’t discuss what you saw before you talk to the police. 

That way, you can provide information untainted by another’s impressions. 

He is now developing programs on how to build observational skills. 

According to Spanos, the HPPD has always been open to ideas for 

community outreach. One program he developed, triggered by deadly auto 

accidents involving teens driving drunk: “Parents Who Host Lose the 

Most.” Picking up the motto from the Drug-Free Action Alliance in Ohio, 

he and the department set up a party tip line (847-926-1756) to permit 

anonymous submission of information about underage drinking. 

“We wanted parents to know that it’s a crime to provide alcohol to 

minors. We were the first department in Illinois with such a program, and 

other municipalities want to know what we’ve done. We put up signs all 

over the city and prepared flyers that Sam’s Wines and Spirits, Binny’s and 

restaurateurs could distribute with purchases and deliveries. They’ve asked 

for more.” 

Spanos also serves as a shooting range officer and an evidence 

technician. He’s on Highland Park’s SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) 

and recruitment teams and is an organizer of an Elderly Service Team to 

develop procedures for working with seniors. 

Spanos’ father was a police commander in Chicago, and his brother is 

an officer there. Before signing on in Highland Park, Spanos served with the 

Chicago Department of Aviation police at O’Hare Airport for two years. 

He spends substantial time on the street, visiting stores, banks and other 

businesses around the city, offering support and exemplifying his belief that 

a visible police presence is preventive. “Stopping crimes is better than 

making an arrest,” he says. “Having officers out there tells everyone 

Highland Park is on the ball.” 

When it comes to enhanced community contact—getting out of the car 

and onto the streets—Patrolman Richard Rash has been a leader. The 16- 

year veteran of the department has been a member of the bicycle patrol 

unit since 1996. “When I’m on my bike, I’m never more than four blocks 

from my car. If there’s a call, I 

can ride back, hang up my 

bike and drive where I’m 

needed.” 

Today’s patrol car is a 

traveling office. “We have 

laptops and phones. Dispatch 

reaches us by computer, and 

we file our reports 

electronically.” 

Rash, whose father was a 

HPPD officer (he retired about 

the time Rash came on board) 

has served as a field training 

officer and a member of the 

fire investigation unit since 1999 and on the evidence team for two years. 

HPPD officers answer about 30,000 calls a year, Rash says: burglaries, 

civil disturbances (“We seek to calm everyone down”), accidents and 

animal problems are the most frequent. Residential alarms can also be a 

problem, with many false alarms, particularly around breakfast time. 

One incident stands out in his mind: “A Waukegan couple, returning from 

a night in Chicago, were followed by two guys. When the couple stopped at 

Denny’s in Highland Park, these armed robbers took their money and headed 

south on Edens. The car was ID’d, and I chased them, picking up a state 

trooper at Tower Road. They exited at Cicero, taking evasive action at speeds 

up to 100 miles an hour. They ended up in a South Side alley on the South 

Side and fled on foot. We caught the driver right away and the passenger later 

in a drug house. We also found the weapon, back near Tower.” 

Of course, it’s the nature of dispatch calls to be an unpredictable business, 

says Communications Supervisor Jason Kern. Highland Park’s dispatchers 

(continued on next page) 

Fall 2007 / 13

(continued from previous page) 

(they are all civilians) catch Solving crimes is just one part of Detective Jon Lowman’s responsibilities. 

9-1-1 calls for police, fire and He is one of the moving forces behind the city’s Community Emergency 

EMTs, monitor multiple state Response Team (CERT), formed in 2005. About 40 volunteers (those 

and local police calls and younger than 16 must join with a parent) meet monthly in a program 

answer public works 

administered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency program. With 

inquiries. Dispatchers keep uniforms, radios and credentials, CERT members provide additional security 

an eye on the weather, and during busy events like Fourth of July celebrations and arts festivals. They 

can trigger the city’s 

also check on the elderly during periods of extreme heat or cold. 

emergency sirens. 

Lowman has been with the HPPD for eight years. He says teamwork 

“It’s a difficult but solves crimes; he works with groups that deal with thefts, drugs, property 

rewarding job, handling damage and arson, major crash reconstruction and police recruitment. 

hundreds of calls a day,” says “Being a detective is my favorite job so far,” says Lowman, named to his 

Kern. “Giving instructions for current position in 2004. He had been a patrolman and park district liaison, 

CPR (cardio-pulmonary dealing with issues like “stranger danger” and low-level drug situations. 

resuscitation) on the phone is Previously, he worked for the Wilmette Park District and was in the Coast 

routine for us.” Dispatchers also deal with routine administrative calls to the Guard Reserves. “I found I had a feel for law enforcement,” he says. 

city and the police department, questions about ordinances and laws, 

Highland Park has few violent crimes, though there were two non-fatal 

requests for directions, and inquiries about storms and power outages. shooting incidents in 2006. Major crimes in Highland Park involve burglary, 

Kern joined the HPPD 10 years ago and was named supervisor this past financial crimes and fraud. “Burglaries are the hardest to solve,” Lowman 

February. He first worked as a dispatcher for the campus police at Triton says, “especially when they are crimes of opportunity. In the case of 

College, then for the Village of River Grove and the River Grove PD. He professionals, we’ve broken rings that were active all over northern Illinois.” 

was an auxiliary police officer in River Grove, working both sides of the 

He has advanced training 

radio. “I was just looking for a part-time job, but I found a career.” 

in computers, surveillance 

Things have changed a lot over the years. “Today, it’s all computers and systems and business 

touch screens,” Kern says. “We create calls on the Computer Aided 

systems, and is adept with 

Dispatch (CAD), and a uniform crime reporting code and short narrative the department’s state-of-theart 

equipment for analyzing 

goes to the appropriate person or beat car. It’s quicker and more efficient 

than typewriters and time stamps, and harder for outsiders to pick up.” surveillance tapes and other 

When a 9-1-1 call comes in on screen, we confirm the address, 

evidence. “Digital 

determine the type of emergency and send police, fire, ambulance or a surveillance has made it 

combination.” Mobile computers will be in all fire vehicles and ambulances much more efficient to sort 

by the end of this year. Wireless technology, which replaces radio waves, is through video,” he says. 

faster with fewer dead spots caused by trees, ravines and on beaches. 

“Highland Park is a safe community,” Lowman says, “but everyone should 

There is also a web-based “Reverse 9-1-1” system to alert groups of still take precautions. Lock your car, or your iPod could be gone. Lock up and 

residents about a problem such as flooding or other impending danger. “We light up your home, too. When there is a crime, we canvas the neighbors. If 

can notify people in an affected area within a couple of hours, as opposed to you see a crime, call 9-1-1, then make notes immediately. We have one of the 

the old system which took a couple of days.” 

best investigative units in northern Illinois in terms of education, training and 

The new building, Kern says, is a huge departure from the old one. our high clearance rate. But our job is primarily crime prevention, educating 

“Dispatch was cramped and had old equipment. Now we have room to citizens and advocating for victims of crimes.” 

expand. New computers (expected in 2008) will be able to check multiple 

The Highland Park Police Department is accredited by the Commission on 

databases.” Each of three ergonomically designed work stations has seven 

Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies since March 2005, “a significant 

screens for three systems: CAD, linked to records and databases like state 

professional benchmark,” according to Chief Shafer. “It underscores our 

licenses; a phone system and radio; and a headquarters monitor and floor 

exceptional police services that meet and exceed national standards.” 

plan, which shows the position and status of doors. Dispatchers can lock 

Patrolman Rash exemplifies departmental pride as he envisions the future. 

down the detention area when they recognize a dangerous situation. 

“Our new building is the beginning of meeting the next level of needs of the 

“The department cooperates with neighboring communities, sharing a 

people of Highland Park. As good as we were before, watch us now!” 

radio frequency with Highwood, Deerfield, Bannockburn, Lake Forest and 

Lake Bluff. Reaching even farther are multi-jurisdictional investigations such For more information about the wide range of services, 

as a case established by the HPPD’s Internet Crime Investigation Unit. Last educational programs, community initiatives and opportunities 

December, a Lake Zurich High School teacher and former coach was for citizen action, visit cityhpil.com/police, call 847-432-7730 

arrested at his Ingleside home by HPPD officers. He pled guilty to child or email cityhall@cityhpil.com. 

pornography charges in early June. 

14 / Fall 2007

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Fall 2007 / 15

David Ariano, Ravinia Plumbing 

Believe it or not, winter is coming, so I’d like to touch on a few cold 

weather issues. The first has to do with brick homes and chimneys. 

Temperature variations combined with moisture are bad news for bricks 

and mortar. I called Mike Nolan of Certified Chimney Co. in 

Highland Park, who says, “Bricks take on water, and they don’t always 

dry quickly. You have a lot of freeze/thaw cycles which can cause the 

brick face to crumble and cause deterioration of the mortar joints.” 

The chimney is the most exposed part of the house. It faces extreme 

weather conditions, has no roof overhang, receives no warmth from the 

house and is subjected to lots of water (rain and snow). It is easy for small 

problems to become larger because the chimney is usually ignored until 

noticeable deterioration has taken place. Mike recommends that masonry 

should be inspected professionally every five years. And, you can make your 

own visual inspection with a pair of binoculars. “Walk around the house, and 

look around the chimney, under windows, gutters and downspouts. Look for 

deterioration of the bricks along with cracking or missing mortar.” 

Tuck pointing (removing old mortar with diamond grinding wheels and 

installing new mortar) will fix many masonry problems, but the longer you 

wait, the more work needs to be done. Severe damage requires taking apart 

and rebuilding affected areas of the structure. Prevent damage by removing 

vines that creep up walls; they grow into the mortar, allowing moisture to 

penetrate deeper, shortening the life of these important joints. 

Mike’s company provides all types of brick, masonry, and tuck pointing 

work. Certified Chimney can be reached at 847-579-8208. 

Problem chimneys combined with gas burning appliances can lead to 

carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless 

gas which can be very toxic. Toxicity depends on the concentration of CO 

in the air, exposure times and your overall health. Exposure to CO can 

cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, 

or loss of muscle control. However, there could be many other causes for 

these symptoms; that is why carbon monoxide poisoning is so difficult to 

diagnose. When inhaled, CO prevents your red blood cells from absorbing 

oxygen. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations can lead to 

unconsciousness, brain damage or death. Long-term exposure to low 

concentrations of CO is linked to many life-threatening conditions. 

CO is created by improper or inefficient burning of any fuel and can be 

produced by your car, lawnmower, grill (charcoal, propane or natural gas), 

oven, cooktop, fireplace, furnace, water heater, and even tobacco smoke. 

The three major causes of CO in the indoor air are: Dirt and blockage; 

using equipment that consumes or exhausts household air; and confining or 

enclosing gas-fired equipment. Here are some prevention tips: 

• Never insulate or try to seal up a draft hood, wind cap or exhaust vent 

on any gas appliance. 

• Keep your equipment area clean. Don’t store anything that could restrict 

air circulation close to equipment. 

• Run exhaust fans for a few minutes at a time; prolonged use could 

remove too much air and also wastes heat. 

16 / Fall 2007 

• If you have a gas water heater, make sure combustion air openings at 

the bottom of the tank and the opening below the draft diverter (on top 

of the tank next to the flue duct) remain unblocked. 

• If you have a gas dryer, the exhaust duct must be vented to the outside 

and have a hood at the end. Check that the exhaust system is not 

blocked by lint or debris and that the flapper in the hood moves freely. 

• Don’t run power attic vents during the winter or when your furnace is on. 

• If you’ve partitioned the area where your furnace and water heater are, 

you may need to add ventilation for proper combustion. 

Some of the danger signs of CO are stuffy, stale or smelly air and back 

drafts or soot from a fireplace or furnace chimney. Your home needs more air 

for proper combustion. For gas-fired equipment, mostly yellow (rather than 

clear blue) burner flames, a pilot light that keeps going out or a smell of gas 

indicate trouble. Turn off the equipment, and contact your heating 

professional. 

Illinois law requires that every home be equipped with one CO detector 

within 15 feet of every bedroom and every gas-burning appliance. CO 

detectors should be replaced once every five to seven years, as the CO 

sensor wears out. If you have any questions about CO or want scheduled 

maintenance performed on your gas-burning equipment, call Ravinia 

Plumbing Heating & Appliance at 847-432-5561. 

They are expanding at The ABL Group, with so many calls for their free 

color consultation, faux paint techniques and—for that “honey-do” list— 

handyman service. Lori Warshawsky (left) started as an interior designer at 

Loebl, Schlossmann and Hackl in Chicago, is a member of the Merchandise 

Mart and has consulted privately with local retailers. She lives right here in 

Highland Park and is active in PTOs. She will specialize in project 

coordinating. Valerie Frossard is a scheduling maven, coming to ABL by 

way of United Airlines Management. She is active at Congregation Or 

Tikvah, as a Boy Scouts Leader and as Team Leader for Youth Football. And 

by the way, VP George Markoutsas is one of the busiest networkers in 

town, serving on the Chamber board and volunteering for Chamber events. 

Call The ABL Group at 847-579-1600 or visit theABLgroup.com. 

Do you have a story about people in the building trades or 

design professions Indoors or landscape We want to hear 

from you. Send your news and photos to 

info@RaviniaPlumbing.com or call David Ariano, 847-432-5561. 

PHOTO: George Markoutsas, The ABL Group

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Fall 2007 / 17

The Out-of-Towners 

Holly Victoria Samonte-Ampon, The Cooling Station 

A North Shore business takes more than an idea, a location and good luck. You need to find your niche, identify 

your prime customers and, if you’re smart, leverage business-to-business networks. As residents of Highland 

Park, we already knew that the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce offered business education and great 

community events. So when The Cooling Station first opened in downtown Highwood, we also joined the 

Chamber in Highland Park. More than 50 other Chamber members have work addresses outside 60035. 

Membership has its privileges, but what’s in it for out-of-towners And what do they say about Highland Park 

For Deborah Levy, owner of Gallery 57, membership was a practical 

matter. “I attended two Chamber educational seminars, and immediately 

applied what I learned in my shop. My Highland Park clients also 

encouraged me to join.” Gallery 57, located at 325 Waukegan Avenue in 

Highwood (847-433-4750) displays oil paintings and sculptures from local 

and international artists. “Artists from the gallery accept commissions. If a 

client wants a sunset on the beach, I can assign an artist who could do that 

exactly as the client envisions,” says Deborah. “We also lease artwork. We 

can provide businesses with a fresh collection of different artwork each 

month,” she added. 

local impact that she was given the Key to the City and the title of honorary 

mayor of the City of Franklin. Her style is extremely personal: “The 

techniques that I use in my oil paintings come from my life experiences, 

unique techniques and formal training,” she explained. 

Deborah is a frequent visitor to Highland Park. “I see friends and have 

business dealings. I find Highland Park residents to be very friendly and 

warm. They are also willing to try new things,” she observed. 

Trying new things is also a quality of the Chamber. Consider Fashion Week, 

an HPCoC initiative in 2006. Hope Weis of Hope Weis Consulting 

(hwwconsulting.com, 847-940-1741) recently joined the Chamber so she 

could be part of this year’s events, which will showcase the latest trends for 

the coming season in apparel and jewelry. “I was encouraged by Tony 

Gordon of Gordon Salons to get involved with the Fashion Week 

committee. I am helping to plan the kick-off cocktail party on September 25 

and the luncheon/runway show on September 28,” Hope explained. 

Hope has been a wedding and event consultant for 15 years. She has 

worked as an assistant director and director of catering in fine Chicago 

hotels including The Ritz Carlton, Hotel Nikko and the Knickerbocker.. 

“I help create lifelong memories,” she explains. “My years in hotels gave 

me tons of experience in event planning of all types and a solid background 


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I took up biology. Painting was just a hobby. It was my roommate who 

encouraged me to paint, and she was my first client, buying an oil 

painting.” In 2000, after studying architectural and fashion design in 

Venezuela, Deborah was commissioned to do a mural in Curaçao, just off 

Venezuela’s west coast. Another commission, in Franklin, Indiana, had such 

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in the inner workings of the business. I started consulting after my second 

child was born; working for myself allowed me to remain in the business 

that I loved and still be able to raise my own children.” 

Hope grew up in Highland Park and now resides in Deerfield. “I have 

been in the area my whole life; I think that’s reassuring for some of my 

clients. I am in Highland Park often, I shop weekly at Sunset and many other 

stores, I have doctors there…and of course, I love the great restaurants.” 

She has been featured in Crain’s Small Business and has participated in 

wedding-planning seminars as a panelist. 

Expanding your resources is another benefit of Chamber membership. “I 

decided to join the Highland Park Chamber when I learned that they were 

going to start a monthly networking event,” says Dan Gelfond, owner of 

Keepsake Family Tree Video based at 2411 Shadow Creek Lane, 

Riverwoods (847-940-9999). “Networking provides us with an opportunity 

to meet and exchange ideas and referrals. You personally get to know other 

business owners and learn about their companies. If I need anything—for 

instance, printing services—I usually have a trustworthy contact.” 

With over nine years of videography experience, Dan concentrates on 

personal and corporate events. He creates montages and transfers old video 

tapes to DVDs. “I specialize in interviewing a parent or grandparent to 

capture their life story. We call these ‘Living Legacy DVDs.’” According to 

Dan, “Residents from Highland Park know what they want. Their events 

are usually upscale, and they appreciate my level of customer service.” And 

Dan likes Highland Park’s service-minded shops and restaurants. 

Dan has a broadcast background and worked with Steven Spielberg’s 

Survivor’s of the Shoah Foundation interviewing holocaust survivors. 

The Chamber is a terrific resource for retail and service organizations, there 

are also a number of business-to-business members. “We are proud to be 

members of the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce,” Alfred Klairmont, 

president of Imperial Realty, states. “We have been with the Chamber 

for 20 years, and we admire what the Chamber does. It is a source of 

strength for community businesses.” 

A family-owned, full-service commercial real estate company, Imperial 

Realty (773-736-4100, www.imperialrealtyco.com, 4747 W. Peterson, 

Chicago) primarily buys commercial properties to manage and lease over 

the long-term. These include office buildings, shopping centers, industrial 

space and some residential properties. Currently, the group owns and 

manages 10 commercial properties in Highland Park and over 80 properties 

in the Chicago metropolitan area. 

“I believe the strength of the downtown shopping district is the quality 

of Highland Parkers,” Al explains. “ Residents seek top-notch service and 

are willing to pay for it.” Al, a lifelong resident, has a background in 

economics and real estate. He is the president of the Highland Park Central 

Business District Property Owners Association; the group is currently 

working with the Chamber and the City to promote the downtown district. 

Non-profit organizations are part of the Chamber membership mix, as well. 

The Highland Park/Highwood Kiwanis Club (PO Box 16, 

Highwood, 847-849-8957) has been a member of the Chamber of 

Commerce for many years. According to its president Don Spaidal, “We 

20 / Fall 2007 

hope to attract new members and remain involved in community 

activities.” He added that business people from Highland Park are always 

generous with both their time and money. 

The club raises money for local charities. “Our next fundraiser will be 

Peanut Day, the third Friday in September,” says Don. In 2006, the group 

donated $10,000 to non-profit organizations including PADS, Highwood 

Recreation Center, Opportunity, Inc., Spinoza, La Casa, United Way, Save 

the Children and the Boy and Girl Scouts. 

“We are fairly new to the Chamber but are not newcomers to Highland 

Park,” says Adina Torchman, Regional Director of the Northern Region of 

Jewish Community Centers (JCC) of Chicago. The Bernard Weinger 

JCC (300 Revere Drive, Northbrook, 847-412-4212) has served Highland 

Park for more than 30 years and offers programs for all ages, including fullday 

child care, preschool, summer camp, vacation-day programs, after-school 

recreation, sports and leagues, fitness, aquatics, adult classes and travel. 

“Our experience as a member of numerous Chambers is very positive, 

and we are excited about our association with Highland Park businesses 

and organizations,” she noted. A number of Highland Park families belong 

to Weinger, so joining the Chamber was natural. “Many volunteers and 

members of our Board of Directors are from Highland Park.” 

A recent unforgettable event was for families to celebrate Israel’s 59th 

birthday. “We had a camel for the kids to ride…It was a wonderful 

afternoon,” Adina recounted. “We also open our doors to families during 

‘snow days,’ when most other facilities close. Parents may still need to get 

to work, so we make every effort to meet their needs.” 

When the Center celebrated its 10th anniversary, they honored Helen 

Weinger, who named the facility in memory of her late husband Bernard. 

“Her son-in-law Lory Spector, who lives in Highland Park, told the story of 

how he and others went door to door in 1975 in Highland Park to elicit 

interest in creating a Jewish Community Center in the north suburbs.” 

JCC of Chicago has an annual campaign that includes a concert at 

Symphony Center. On November 5, 2007, they will feature Joshua Bell 

with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. 

Holly Samonte-Ampon is the manager of The Cooling Station, an 

ice cream and party place in Highwood at 315 Waukegan Avenue. 

To schedule your ice cream party, call 847-266-5164. Holly is also 

a freelance writer and science writer/editor who can be reached 

at 847-312-2784 or coolingstation_holly@yahoo.com. 

If your organization values the Highland Park base—both 

business and residential—the Highland Park Chamber of 

Commerce is a valuable entry point. Chamber members 

enjoy exclusive networking opportunities and openings to 

sponsor community events (Fashion Week 2007 and the 

Highland Park Open golf outing, to name just two). The 

Chamber provides referral services to bring new customers 

to you and unique communications outlets (six00threefive, 

for example, and other media packages). The Highland Park 

Chamber of Commerce is a wonderful platform for your 

professional brand-building. For more information, call 

847-432-0284 or visit ehighlandpark.com. While on our web 

site, be sure to click on the “Directory” to find just the retail, 

professional, arts and entertainment resources for you.

t Highland Park Hospital, we’ve been providing 

access to the finest physicians and most 

advanced technology for over 85 years—all in a 

comfortable community setting. Sure, you can 

travel downtown for quality healthcare, but why 

not stay in your own neighborhood 

www.enh.org 

©2007 Evanston Northwestern Healthcare 

Fall 2007 / 21

At the ribbon cutting, Belsky complimented Uncle Dan’s, the property 

owners and their associates for “getting the deal done”—filling a anchor 

space that had been vacant for three years. He added that the move is very 

positive for the Central Business District. 

Richard Greb 

Uncle Dan’s grand opening June 1 in the center of town, at the corner of 

Central and Second, highlights a season of expansion with larger spaces and 

new names joining the retail roster. Uncle Dan’s, the “Great Outdoor 

Store,” has 7,000 square feet, more than double its previous location. It is 

chock full with expanded product lines that fit its specialization in “outdoor 

equipment and clothing for any adventure.” 

This includes supplies for camping, backpacking, hiking, canoeing, 

kayaking and travel, and equipment for outdoor games, such as Frisbee ® 

Golf. Playing with flying discs in different weights, players target goals 

around a course. Highland Park, by the way, has a nine-hole Frisbee golf 

course in the northwest corner of Fink Park on Clavey Road. 

Fast growing product areas include family footwear, lifestyle clothing and 

lifestyle accessories, and owner Brent Weiss said the store has both 

broadened existing lines and responded to customer requests by adding 

products when appropriate. 

When it was founded in 1972 on Chicago’s North Side as Uncle Dan’s 

Army/Navy, the store carried military surplus. Al Weiss, Brent’s father (on 

right below with Brent and Mayor Michael Belsky) started the business. He 

says products expand to meet the market: “You change when customers tell 

you to.” He recalled that early customers didn’t want new jeans because 

they were too stiff; he saw the demand for used jeans…and flight jackets! 

At Central and Green Bay, Bett’s focuses on “carefully edited, edgy 

European designers and sophisticated classic” clothing for women. Now, in 

a space formerly a succession of coffee shops, is owner Bett Barnett’s 

expansion, B2 (“as in too”). B2 is a contemporary boutique that includes 

“more trendy items with a younger attitude and a casual lifestyle.” It will 

have such high-profile clothing designers as Betsy Johnson, Vince, Nanette 

Lepore, Trina Turk and Beth Bowley, and will bring in new brands on a 

regular basis. Bett, an avid yoga enthusiast, adds there will be an ample 

stock of active wear including Beyond Yoga, Neon Buddha and Danskin in 

the expanded store. “There will also be an eye-catching selection of 

affordable fine jewelry, accessories and great gift items,” she says. 

In 1996, with stores in Skokie and in Lincoln Park, Uncle Dan’s opened 

in Highland Park. Today, it has four brick-and-mortar locations—Highland 

Park (847-266-8600), Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville and Evanston, plus a 

couple of Web sites—www.udans.com and www.campsupplies.com. 

At Bett’s itself, she says, customers will find even more sizes and 

designers to choose from. She cites clothing by Babette and Lafayette 148, 

and French handbag line Sequoia. 

Her mission, Bett adds, is to pair highly fashionable style with 

philanthropy. Many of her vendors are selected not only for great style, 

but for their commitment to local and global causes, and Bett will highlight 

a different cause each month. She will select four items from the stores for 

silent auction and donate the proceeds to charity. In addition, she will hold 

private events with a portion of the proceeds going to the charity. Recent 

events benefited Friends of the Arts and the Volunteer Pool of Highland 

Park, as well as Friends of Steven and Children’s Memorial Hospital. 

“Our benefits are in line with the concerns of our customers. We want 

to raise both money and awareness for their causes,” Bett says. Call 

847-432-0338 or visit bettsboutique.com. 

PHOTOS: Richard Greb 

22 / Fall 2007

Two other Uptown fixtures that recently underwent expansion are in the 

set-back mall on First Street, just north of Central Avenue. 

Over the Top, Ltd., at 1866 First Street, 847-433-3150, was 

founded by Lynn and Gene Brodsky in 1989 to be, Lynn says, “the best top 

store possible.” From the beginning, the 1,000-square-foot boutique 

specializing in blouses, jackets, shirts and sweaters saw steady growth as a 

family place. “We offer service to our customers, including custom knit 

pieces. We’re happy to special order for them.” 

Recently, when the shop next door became vacant, Over the Top 

removed a wall and added 50 percent to its retail space. This means new 

lines, including more sportswear, accessories (purses, bags, belts and some 

fashion jewelry), and even some skirts. Lines of note include One Girl Who 

(“Their line is versatile in fit and style, for any age”) and Margaret O’Leary. 

The store continues, however, to concentrate on tops and maintain its 

traditional boutique role. “We’re not corporate,” says Lynn, who has lived 

in Highland Park for 35-years and whose dog, Zoey, keeps her company or 

spends time visiting with Campus Colors’ poodle, Wrigley, at 1860 First 

Street. “This is a specialty town. That keeps Highland Park charming.” 

and football jerseys. Returning with $250 worth of sweatshirts, jerseys, 

t-shirts and shorts, Neil thought, “If my kids want this stuff so badly, other 

kids do, too.” Once the Highland Park store was solidly established, the 

family added locations in Hinsdale, Naperville and Water Tower Place. 

Son Jon joined the business in 2002. 

The two businesses differ. Pro demand is more seasonal, and more 

localized—two-thirds for Chicago teams—while campuses nationwide are 

popular. Pro clothing is player driven. Current stars’ names and numbers 

are in demand. “We carry nostalgic items, and we can special order for 

players like Satchel Paige and Cal Rifkin. Walter Payton and Ron Santo t- 

shirts are popular,” says Jon. Supplier Mitchell & Ness produces a limited 

line of jerseys with the exact construction and materials of vintage 

uniforms. It also has throwback offerings in baseball, basketball and football. 

Novelties—mugs, pillows, pennants, wallets, alarm clocks, mouse 

pads—are increasingly popular. Says Jon: “Anything with a logo.” 

b. Flirty at the Shops on Elm, on the west end of the center at 607 Elm 

Place, the clothing boutique specializes in “fun and flirty” fashions, 

according to owner Andrea Petrungaro. She’s catering to mothers and 

daughters, having brought in new contemporary clothing lines for younger 

women while retaining core brands that appeal to long-term customers of 

Fibers, formerly in that location. 

“Clothing can be sexy and conservative at the same time,” Andrea says. 

Fashions include sports and casual wear, office apparel and weekend attire 

for day and night. Among brands she carries are Gavin Pants, Green 

Dragon (casual wear), Bordeaux and Anac (tops), and 525 America 

(sweaters). You can contact b. Flirty at 847-433-3666. 

Another niche business run by long-time Highland Park residents is 

Campus Colors (1860 First Street, 847-433-2300). They’ve opened 

Pro Colors next door, to meet the demand for professional-team goods. 

The idea for Campus Colors took root in of 1989. Neil and Barbara 

Rubenstein and their two sons were on a driving vacation. The boys 

wanted to stop in Ann Arbor so they could get official UMich sweatshirts 


Fall 2007 / 23


North of Elm, in the office of Eye Care Ltd. at 1971 Second, is Eye Can 

See Clearly, which sells low-vision aids. Owner and proprietor Richard 

Reagan is himself legally blind, and he helps all his customers personally. 

Richard, who suffers from retinal degeneration, splits his time between 

Highland Park (Mondays and Thursdays) and Skokie locations. Like 

Richard, most of his customers are previously sighted. You can call any 

time, 847-612-9094, and there’s also a Web site, eyecanseeclearly.com. 

However, he says, people like to “come in and try our products. They like 

to see first hand what’s best for them.” Appointments are not necessary. 

“My goal is to have people leave my store in better shape than when 

they came in. They can be happier and maintain their lifestyles. I like to feel 

that I’ve helped.” 

Richard started his business in 2003. Before that, he spent more than 30 

years with his family’s short-haul trucking business. “My father founded the 

company, and I grew it from eight to 47 trucks,” Richard says. “We had as 

many as 72 employees and handled non-perishable goods, making 300 to 

400 deliveries a day in the six counties around Chicago.” 

After retiring four years ago, he went into the business of helping others 

to see more easily. Eye Can See Clearly’s product line includes magnifiers to 

enlarge images, both video (50x) and hand held (14x). Electronic 

magnifiers allow users to adjust the type font and background colors for 

their greatest comfort. 

He offers calculators and computer keyboards with large keys and 

displays, black measuring cups with white markings, voice-activated cell 

phones, talking medical monitors, clocks, watches, pedometers and 

thermometers, games and other devices. “We offer the low-vision customer 

over 250 high-quality products to help maximize their daily lifestyle and 

independence.” He gives tips on setting up individuals’ environments to 

maximize their vision. He notes, for example, that with lighting, 

diminishing glare is more helpful than increasing wattage. 

Update from Crossroads area 

The new retail and office center on Skokie Valley Road between Anton’s 

Fruit Ranch and Fuddruckers is being turned over to its tenants in late 

August with stores expected to be ready for business in October. 

Project manager Scott Emalfarb says there will be five businesses on the 

ground floor, with the southern-most 2,000-square-foot space available as 

we go to press. The other stores, going north, will be Body Empowered 

Fitness (www.bodyinpower.com); Green Dry Cleaner, the only 

environmentalist dry cleaner in the Chicago area; Day Spa, which will 

offer massages, facials, beauty products, manicures and pedicures; and 

Jimmy John’s gourmet sandwiches (www.jimmyjohns.com). 

On the second floor in the condominium offices—a growing trend in office 

space—will be, from south to north: 

• Perlmark Realty Corporation, a residential real estate investment, 

development and management firm involved primarily in the 

acquisition, development and operation of multi-family rental 

communities throughout the United States. 

• Pepper Development Services, an international construction and 

development consultant who has worked with the Trump Organization 

and other developers around the world. 

• Dr. Kathy Jean, an expanding periodontist practice. 

• Kelsey and Jo Orthodontics, a long-standing child- and familyoriented 

orthodontics practice moving to Highland Park. 

• Burack and Co., developers of houses, apartment buildings, office 

towers, retail space, hotels and mixed-use projects nationwide. 

Here’s a challenge for six00threefive readers: This new shopping complex 

does not yet have a name. If you have a suggestion for a great 

name, send it to frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com, SUBJECT: 

“Crossroads,” and we’ll pass your ideas along to the developers. 

Remember, it’s all in a name. 

Richard Greb, freelance writer and PR consultant, wants to 

feature the new or unique product that are exclusive in 

Highland Park. Contact Rich at 847-831-1445 or 

rgreb@aol.com. 

24 / Fall 2007


Business bookmarks for your browser 

Beth Keller, Highland Park Public Library 

Jacki Wilhoff, reference librarian at Highland Park Public Library, helps local 

business people locate useful information and answers their business-related 

questions. With nearly two decades of research experience, she knows where 

to turn to find the right information. Her sources Books, periodicals and the 

Web…and so many Web sites, how can anyone find the best Right here: 

www.business.gov: Business regulations, laws, advice and forms are 

available through the Small Business Administration’s online portal, which 

consolidates access to business information from the SBA and 21 other 

federal agencies. Illinois has a similar site at business.Illinois.gov. 

www.census.gov: The U.S. Census Bureau site has access to demographic 

and statistical information for the population census and Business and 

Industry census. For a one-stop source for extensive statistical information 

collected by the federal government, try the Statistical Abstract of the 

United States at www.census.gov/compendia/statab/. 

www.businessweek.com, www.entrepreneur.com, and 

www.inc.com are three great sites for small businesses information. 

www.highlandpark.org: The Highland Park Information Gateway 

supplies links to community Web sites, local organizations and a new 

Civic Calendar. Other sources for local information include the Chamber 

of Commerce at www.ehighlandpark.com, the City at 

www.cityhpil.com, and the Library at www.hplibrary.org. 

www.hplibrary.org/www/databases.html: Information databases 

that have been purchased by the Library are accessible through the 

Library’s computers or on a home computer by a user with a Highland 

Park Public Library card. Three comprehensive databases available from 

this page are: 

Reference USA: Nationwide listing of yellow pages searchable by 

yellow pages heading, SIC/NAICS (Standard Industrial 

Classification/North American Industry Classification System), 

geographic location, business size, sales volume, and other categories 

for information on U.S. businesses. 

Public Records Electronic Database: Information on new 

businesses and homeowners in metro-Chicago 

Business & Company Resource Center: Broad range of articles 

with international coverage of company and industry information 

For business or other research questions, please contact a 

reference librarian at 847-681-7031 or email 

hppla@hplibrary.org. 

Strike a pose! 

Dress ’em up! Dress ’em down! Accessorize! 

Best Friends of Fashion Week 

Sunday, Sept. 23 

1:30-3:00 p.m. 

On the red carpet 

for a canine beauty contest! 

“Most Glamorous” “Best Look-Alike” 

“Best Hairdo” “Cutest Puppy” 

Celebrity judges! Prizes! Goodie Bags! 

Pupparazzi! Exhibitors! 

Register in person at Highland Park Bank & 

Trust, 1949 St. Johns Ave. in Highland Park. 

$ 

15 ( $ 20 after 9/1) ea. add’l dog $5 

Proceeds benefit local pet charities and the 

Highland Park Chamber of Commerce 

Sponsored by 

To exhibit your pet goods or services, 

at Bark @ the Bank, 

contact Ruth Stokes, 847-432-9988 

LOGO: David Eisendrath, CampDogwood.com 

PHOTOS: Marge Hudson, Wetnoze.com 

Highland Park 



847-432-9988 

Drive-Thru/Walk-Up 


Highland Park - Ravinia 

643 Roger Williams Avenue 


847-266-0300

Chef’s Day Off 

Jim Lederer, Bluegrass 

The Taste of Highland Park will showcase the art of food as skillfully 

created by Highland Park restaurateurs. About 26 food booths will make up 

this year’s Taste, which will run during the Port Clinton Art Festival, 

August 25 and 26 in downtown Highland Park. Taste hours are 10-10 on 

Saturday and 10-6 on Sunday. As Mayor Belsky and Amy Amdur are trying 

to bring together the arts and foods of the north shore, it should be a great 

weekend—there is a lot planned! 

Live music by Cirrus Falcon during the day and a special Jive and 

Jazz concert by performers from the Music Arts School will be featured 

at The Taste. 

Restaurants on board to whet your appetites include Café Central, 

Lincolnshire Gourmet, NY Slices, La Casa del Gordo, Tamales, Lou 

Malnati’s and Bluegrass, just to name a few. The Taste will feature a full 

compliment of spirits, wine and beer, along with a few martinis and 

margaritas. This will just add to the sunshine that will be brought in from 

the tropics! 

As Highland Park’s West Side Grows… 

Even though the west side of Highland Park is a bit outside the central 

business district, it’s seeing a lot of new foodie business, and a lot of growth, 

with plenty of free parking. Did I mention, free parking, and plenty of it 

Here is the roundup of new things to see and do on the west side of town, 

better known as the Briergate area. 

Players Grill, owned by Gayle and Jerry Nudelmann, which is 

located in Garrity Square at 1855 Deerfield Road, now hosts karaoke every 

Friday evening. Just a few months old, Players’ karaoke has grown to be a 

real happening. You will find most of the entertainment starting around 

9:30 p.m., and chirpin’ like a cricket ’til past midnight. To make plans to 

sing along, call 847-831-4445. 

Wine Discount Center on 1350 Old Skokie Road (that’s on the 

Frontage Road, south of Old Deerfield), 847-831-1049, has just moved its 

corporate headquarters from Addison in Chicago to right above their 

Highland Park store! Since its inception in 1984, the Wine Discount Center 

has been committed to offering top-notch service, friendly expert advice and 

a unique selection of the world’s best wine values. Come visit; you’ll 

discover their commitment is now stronger than ever. Not only do they sell 

wine but also fine spirits such as Highland Park 12- and 18-year-old single 

malt scotch or North Shore Distillery’s gin and vodka (distilled in Lake Bluff, 

Illinois). Either of these two items would make a nice gift for a hometown 

host or as a welcome to the neighborhood. 

Another west side favorite is Eta Wendrow Catering. If you’re 

looking for someone to cook for your next dinner party, holiday event (Rosh 

Hashonah, Yom Kippur, Thanksgiving), corporate function, or if you’re 

planning to make your wedding, graduation or Bar/Bat Mitzvah truly 

memorable. Eta Wendrow Catering has been providing custom catering for 

families and businesses on the North Shore and around greater Chicagoland 

for over 30 years. Rick Wendrow, son of founder Eta, works closely with 

clients to ensure that everything from “soup to nuts” is perfect for your 

special event. Call Rick at 847-579-1540, or visit his web site 

etawcatering.com to see the High Holiday menus. 

Glatt Kosher Meat and Bakery in the Jewel/Osco has been 

serving up some of the finest kosher food for a number of years. They boast 

550 kosher items. With the Jewish holidays coming up, or when you want 

to bring something to a kosher home, drop by 1600 Deerfield Road, or call 

847-579-0872. Of course, the kosher sections of the deli and bakery are 

closed before sunset Friday and reopen on Sunday. 

Carol’s Cookies (you knew this is a Highland Park business, right) 

is just about to launch the 10th variety in its cookie line! “More than just a 

cookie,” the signature is the size of the cookies, weighing one-half pound 

each! The new, all-natural Toffee Chocolate variety will be out soon at 

Whole Foods and other outlets. Visit carolscookies.com. 

Oakville Organic Market opened up behind Bluegrass in the 

summer of 2006 and brings the North Shore the freshest certified organic 

produce available in Chicago. With its flexible home delivery schedule or 

convenient pickup service, shopping has never been easier. Organic and all 

natural meats, grocery items, freshly baked breads and pastries, as well as 

fantastic produce is either a mouse click or a phone call away. It’s located 

in Joe Sciarrone’s new office/warehouse, Deer Ridge Properties. Customer 

service is its middle name. Please give them a call! 847-831-3030, 

oakvilleorganics.com, or swing by 1630 Old Deerfield Rd, Suite 105. 

Bluegrass is now serving Sunday Family Feast every week. What 

started as just a simple family day has turned into a serious barbeque 

evening. The BBQ ribs and chicken are popular not only at the tables but 

also at the door for carryouts. The ribs at Bluegrass are still one of the North 

Shore’s best kept secrets. Chef David Teichman took six months to perfect 

his ribs, testing numerous cuts of ribs, but also his rub and smoking 

techniques. These are the real deal, genuine pit-smoked baby back ribs, 

growing in popularity since their inception over a year ago. 

PHOTO: James Lederer, Back Back, LLC,. starving artist that he is…. 

26 / Fall 2007

New restaurant opens, 

but never on Shabbat 

Can you imagine a Highland Park eatery closed every Friday night and 

Saturday until 9 p.m. Fortunately for us, Isaac Nava, owner of La Casa 

de Isaac, imagined just that. 

“Many people think I’m crazy,” states Isaac (on the left in the photo, 

with his brother Moishe), “but my family follows Jewish tradition, and we 

enjoy observing the Sabbath.” Nava, who is from the small Mexican town 

of Huitzuco, Guerrero, Mexico, near Acapulco, is the fourth of 12 children. 

“My mother and father both converted to Judaism and raised us to respect 

our adopted religion,” maintains Nava. 

With 20 years of restaurant experience, Nava decided to open a 

Mexican restaurant that features home-cooked dishes. He believes in its 

success because of his close ties in the area and the quality food for a fair 

price. “My family has been a member of the community for a long time,” 

relates Nava. “We have many friends who know me from prior restaurants, 

and hopefully they will support our restaurant during the weekdays. I think 

that our customers will appreciate the freshness of our ingredients and 

recognize the value we provide.” 

No one offers more discounts. 

With all kinds of ways to save on your policy, the choice for 

auto insurance in Highland Park couldn’t be easier. Call now 

to find out more about our new lower rates. 

MICHAEL A. MAIONE, CLU, Lutcf 

559 Roger Williams Avenue, Highland Park 

(847) 433-4880 

www.farmersagent.com/mmaione 

La Casa de Isaac is open Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 

10 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Saturdays during 

daylight savings time. As daylight savings time ends, the restaurant will 

open on Saturday nights one hour after sundown. Parking is available 

behind the restaurant, which is 431 Temple in Highland Park between 

Miramar and Carlos’. Phone 847-433-5550. 

Jim Lederer always has a lot on his plate, but if you can eat it 

or drink it in Highland Park, he wants to hear about it. Send 

your news of restaurants, caterers, groceries and beverages to 

jim@bluegrasshp.com or call 847-831-0595. 

HIGHLAND PARK 

COMMUNITY HOUSE 

Our red brick, Colonial revival-style house is fully air conditioned 

and handicapped accessible, featuring a ballroom which seats 

up to 300 and a full performance stage. The elegant ballroom 

features a vaulted ceiling, vintage light fixtures, hardwood floor and arched 

windows overlooking our Heritage Garden. A perfect setting for weddings, 

private parties and public events. 

Experience the possibilities 

CALL 847.432.1515 OR WWW.HIGHLANDPARKCOMMUNITYHOUSE.ORG 

1991 N. SHERIDAN RD. HIGHLAND PARK, IL 60035 

Fall 2007 / 27

Political finger-pointing on health care is bound to increase as 

we get closer to the 2008 elections. But a local group of 

humanitarians did something about it. Attorney Bob Baizer, 

Steven Sommerfeld, DDS, former Oak Terrace School nurse Roni 

Weiss and many others joined forces with corporations such as 

Kraft Foods, Scott Byron & Co. and the Healthcare Foundation of 

Highland Park to form “Friends for Health.” 

Leaving others to do the debating, they acted, mobilizing 

hundreds of private donors to fund the North Shore Health 

Center (1840 Green Bay Road, in Highland Park, in front of the 

old Karger Center). 

“So many families who never have been seen by a doctor or 

dentist, thank us for being here!” according to a beaming Nurse 

Weiss. “I am so proud to be a part of this amazing place!” The 

Center has treated over 2,000 patients to date, provided school 

physicals for students, referrals for reduced pricing on 

medications, and prenatal and dental care. Word is spreading! 

“Because of our unique offerings, the NSHC is unlike any other 

health clinic,” points out Erin MacLean, NSHC Community 

Relations Director. 

Sommerfeld adds, “The whole country is beginning to take 

notice of this fantastic facility. Our goal is that similar centers will 

spring up in other locations. People realize that this is truly a big 

step towards a solution to the health care crisis!” Kraft has 

awarded Friends for Health a $25,000 grant to implement “Salsa, 

Sabor y Salud,” an eight-week program for Latino children under 

12 and their parents, in partnership with the National Latino 

Children’s Institute. 

Friends for Health points out that “Each donor makes a 

difference in the fight to provide healthcare to all of those in 

need.” Contact them at friendsforhealth@aol.com, or call 

847-984-5323. 

CVS Pharmacy at 1539 Clavey 

Road in Highland Park now has a 

diagnostic health care program 

on site called “minute clinic.” 

CVS says it is “doing what we 

can to make healthcare a little 

easier for people with a lot going 

on!” This unique clinic is staffed 

by licensed nurse practitioners 

and physician’s assistants. 

Patients 18 months and older 

may have common illnesses, skin 

conditions, need vaccines, etc. 

There are usually four 

practitioners rotating through the 

Highland Park store, as so many 

people now look to their pharmacist for what might be their most 

accessible source of medical advice. Minute Clinic is open 8-8, 

Monday-Friday, and 10-4 on weekends. No appointment is 

needed. Visit minuteclinic.com to check on insurance coverage 

or for general information, or call 866-389-ASAP (2727). 

This CVS location is open 24 hours; to reach the store directly 

for their pharmacy and other services, call 847-831-6691. 

PHOTO: Wes Wenk 

Wes Wenk covers the professional endeavors in Highland 

Park: financial, medical, legal, consulting, office and homebased, 

as well as our non-profit organizations. Email 

wes@wenkinsurance.com, or fax 847-433-1345. And see our 

table of contents for a directory of our other columnists.

AN OPEN LETTER TO PLAYER OF THE CENTURY 

August 2, 2007: Wenk Insurance Men’s 

16" softball, Division B, HPPD, at West 

Ridge Center. Chuck Wenk, first base 

coach; Sam Wenk, second base. 

Since the late 1960s, when I started my own 16" softball team 

(I was at HPHS, you were in your 40s), you always filled in when 

we were short a player…even though you had your own 

champion team in Division A. Throughout my college-years (and 

your 50s), you continued to play for us several games a year. 

By the 1980s, our team was mostly in our mid-30s and 

settled into the “B” league. Even then, in your 60s, you turned 

out four or five games a year for us. A decade later, most of us 

were married with kids, and now and again, we came up a 

player short on Thursday nights. You—just home after a long 

day downtown and pouring yourself that much-deserved dry 

martini—always answered the phone when I called from the 

Sunset Park pay phone. You were in your 70s, yet you’d drop 

everything, drive over and fill in. 

Just last month, guess what We were short a player, and 

super-sub, 80-plus Chuck Wenk was back in the lineup…again! 

Since you began those early pick-up games at Old Elm Park, 

you have been an active player in the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s 

and the double-oughts…To the Minnie Minoso of 16" softball, 

all I can say is, “Thanks, Dad!” 

Wes 

All-American flair 

with a little Southern influence 

Our baby back ribs are dry rubbed 

and slowly pit-smoked ’til tender. 

Served with peanut-brittle baked 

beans and skin-on “tater sixers.” 

What more could we say All the ribs 

you can eat Tuesday evenings. 

The best bar in town. Bar none. 

847-831-0595 bluegrasshp.com 

1636 Old Deerfield Road in Highland Park 

Fall 2007 / 29

A look at the personalities of Highland Park neighborhoods 

Ravinia Neighborhood 

Mike Del Monte, Prosumer Real Estate 

“Ravinia’s residents appreciate the beauty that surrounds us all: distinctive 

homes, old shade trees, the beach and access to Lake Michigan, the 

abundance of parks and playgrounds designed for the safety and pleasure for 

all children” says Gail Sokol Taxy. “We have outstanding schools, an active 

neighborhood group, the renovated train station and Jens Jensen Memorial 

Park…and how lucky to be able to walk to Ravinia Festival.” Gail grew up 

here, as did her husband Jerry. “That’s the kind of community this is, one 

you want to return to for generations.” 

The Ravinia neighborhood in the southeast part of this city, is generally 

defined as Lincoln Avenue south to Lake-Cook Road, between Green Bay 

Road on the west and Lake Michigan. It is distinguished by its many 

ravines, wooded lots and the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan. Ravinia is a 

residential neighborhood with its own shopping district, Post Office and not 

one, but two Metra train stations—one on Ravinia Festival’s grounds. 

May Theilgaard Watts—who lived for a while in Ravinia—wrote in 

Ravinia, Her Charms and Destiny that Ravinia was first a religious, then 

an artists’ and writers’ colony. Platted in 1872 and annexed to the city in 

1899. The Ravinia area was home to influential personalities such as Watts, 

Jens Jensen, E.G. Becker, John Van Bergen and Harold Florsheim. 

In 1902, A.C. Frost purchased approximately 36 acres along the North 

Shore Line and opened an amusement park to stimulate business for the 

railroad. Mr. Frost added a grandstand, a baseball field and a theatre with pipe 

organ, dance floors and an outdoor pavilion. After closing for four years during 

the Great Depression, what is now the Ravinia Festival re-opened in 1936. 

The neighborhood has six public parks, Brown Park, Carroll F. Snyder 

Park, Jens Jensen Park, May T. Watts Park, Ravinia Park and Rosewood 

Beach and Park. The City of Highland Park undertook a $100,000 

restoration (public and private funds) of Jens Jensen Park, in keeping with 

the original 1924 design. In fact, Jensen’s studio was just a few blocks away 

What is known as the Becker Estate, 405 Sheridan Road, was recently 

purchased and is embroiled in a controversy over how it will be developed. 

The area’s younger students attend Lincoln Elementary and Braeside 

schools, Edgewood is the junior high, and grades 9-12 all go to Highland 

Park High School. 

Based on information in the MlsNI, in the first half of 2007 there were 

about 50 sales in the area ranging from $325,000 to $2,500,000, with an 

average price of around $800,000 and an average of approximately 229 

days on the market. There are currently about 100 active and pending 

properties, ranging from $340,000 to over $8,000,000, including ranches, 

split levels, older two stories and upscale new residences, with an average 

market time of over 200 days. There are fewer teardowns lately, due to the 

slowing economy, longer marketing times and, especially, the excess 

inventory of newly constructed residences currently on the market. 

The area with its proximity to the Metra, its own small shopping district 

and to Crossroads or uptown Highland Park, provides all the suburban 

amenities for residents. First-time buyers and down-sizers should be drawn 

to the two new condominium buildings on Roger Williams, one at Green 

Bay, the other at Burton. There are reports of another in the works on the 

south side of Roger Williams where the medical offices are. 

The Ravinia Neighbors Association, more than 10 years old, has been 

outspoken in its efforts to retain the charming, historic character of the area, 

working to maintain and improve the neighborhood. 

A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, established by the City of 

Highland Park in 2005, covers roughly Green Bay to Dean Avenue along 

Roger Williams, a few blocks north and south of Roger Williams along St. 

Johns and one large parcel along Burton Avenue. The Ravinia TIF is 

projected to begin producing tax increment in Fiscal Year 2008. This focus 

on redevelopment should address the number of commercial vacancies on 

the east side of the business district. 

Meanwhile, the commercial area west of the tracks appears stable: 

Walgreens is an anchor, with newer restaurants and businesses and the 

older family-owned business (Piero’s Pizza, Ravinia Plumbing and Ravinia 

BBQ & Grill) laying the foundation for future growth. 

Our next article will focus on the Sunset Park area. If you have any 

old photos, any information or want to share your memories about 

that area, please let us know. 

Michael A. Del Monte is one of the broker/owners of 

Prosumer Real Estate. He can be reached at 847-831-9700 

or email at Info@ProsumerRealEstate.com. 

PHOTOS: Eve Del Monte, Prosumer Real Estate 

30 / Fall 2007


Five questions to ask before 

buying health insurance 

Rebecca Bloomfield, Alliance for Affordable Services 

Never buy a health insurance policy based on price alone. Instead, consider 

these factors when making your buying decision. 

What is the company rated The A.M. Best Company is the 

oldest, most experienced rating agency in the world and has been reporting 

on the financial condition of insurance companies since 1899. 

The ratings the A.M. Best Company assigns are: 

• A++ and A+ (Superior) 

• A and A- (Excellent) 

• B++ and B+ (Very Good) 

• C++ and C+ (Marginal) 

• C and C- (Weak) 

• D (Poor) 

• E (Under State Control) 

• S (Suspended) 

Buy from a company with a good rating. To see a current copy of the 

company’s A.M. Best Report, ask your agent, ask for it at the public library, 

go to www.ambest.com or call A.M. Best at 908-439-2200. 

How are claims paid Health insurance companies use different 

methods to pay claims. Two of the most common are Usual and Customary 

charges and Reasonable charges. “Usual and Customary” charges are based 

on provider charges in a given area: the smallest of the actual charge, the 

provider’s usual charge or the prevailing charge for that service in a similar 

location. “Reasonable” charges give the insurance company flexibility to 

adjust the Usual and Customary charge if they determine a service charge is 

unusual. Reasonable charges are typically less than the usual and customary 

charges, and only the insurance company knows the actual value. 

Beware of added extra words like “Usual, Customary and Reasonable” 

charges (UCR), which may create loopholes for the company to decide how 

much it will pay. Often it is not what the hospital or doctor charges, or 

what the insured thinks it should be, resulting in misunderstandings. 

If the company doesn’t use the Usual and Customary charges, look for 

the following substitutes and be cautious of how it pays claims: 

• reasonable charges 

• average charges 

• permissible charges 

• negotiated fee 

• allowable amount 

• limited fee schedule 

Can you go to any doctor, hospital or specialized health care 

facility Some health insurance companies require pre-certification or a 

referral before you can seek treatment. Choose a health insurance plan with 

the greatest flexibility in choosing doctors and hospitals. Even if a doctor is 

on the list, be sure that you have access to specialists and other doctors 

whom you might want to see. 

When faced with a serious illness or injury, most people want to know 

that they can seek the very best medical care available. 

Will your plan go where you want it to go Some health 

insurance plants may not travel well. For example, some will not cover you 

if you are outside of the United States. Even more restrictive, some plans 

limit your benefits if you use them outside a particular jurisdiction, such as 

a state or county. Many plans will not cover you if you relocate to another 

state, requiring you to find new health coverage in your new state. 

Choose a plan that provides worldwide coverage. The only thing worse 

than having a medical problem while on vacation or a business trip is 

finding out that it is not covered. Ask your agent what would happen if: 

• you choose to go out of state for medical treatment, and 

• how a medical problem would be handled if you were in a foreign 

country. 

Your health plan should cover you in the worst-case scenario. 

What about on-the-job injuries Many health plans exclude onthe-job 

injuries and many working Americans are not covered by worker’s 

compensation plans. People who work several jobs or have businesses on 

the side are usually not covered on-the-job by their primary employer’s 

insurance. Plans that exclude work-related medical problems may: 

• not pay for anything that happens at or because of work, and 

• put off paying ANY claim while they “investigate” whether it was workrelated 

or not. 

If you are not covered by Worker’s Compensation or a similar plan or 

law, be sure that you choose a plan that will cover you 24 hours a day, 

whether you are working or not. 

Many people find out how their health insurance policy works when they 

submit a claim. Sometimes it is a rude awakening. Few people take the 

time to understand the fine print until it’s too late. It is worth your time to 

understand the facts . Choose a health insurance plan based on the quality 

of the company and the plan. Then adjust the rates by adding or removing 

benefits to make it affordable. 

Make your buying decision based on your needs. Insurance is about 

much more than low-cost prescriptions, doctor visits and the monthly 

premium. Buy from a professional, licensed agent in whom you have 

complete trust and confidence. Have your agent explain the plan. And 

remember to get the phone number of your agent and insurance company’s 

customer service division for information and assistance. 

Rebecca Bloomfield is field service representation for The 

Alliance for Affordable Services, a nation not-for-profit 

organization. For more information about this article, call 

Rebecca, 847-362-8888, or email rbloomfield@mw-ins.com. 

Fall 2007 / 31

YEA! Highland Park 

Has Heart 

Wendy S. Smith, CFRE 

Summer’s end in Highland Park is marked by shopping for school supplies, 

folding up the umbrellas at Hidden Creek Aqua Park and, for the past decade, 

YEA! Highland Park—a unique fundraising event that supports youth, 

education and arts programs in our community. Former Highland Park mayor 

Ray Geraci launched YEA! Highland Park when he brought Ravinia and the 

City of Highland Park together in a community fundraising marriage made in 

heaven. Each year—this year, on Saturday, September 1—YEA! Highland 

Park celebrates community with a benefit dinner and concert. 

Ticket sales, combined with generous sponsorships from individuals, 

local businesses and Ravinia Festival, have helped raise nearly $2 million 

over the past 10 years. In 2006 alone, $295,000 was distributed to 22 

programs operating in Highland Park (see sidebar page 34). These are the 

stories of just three of the wonderful organizations. 

Family Network – 25 years of helping 

parents and children get a good start 

One of our community’s truly special jewels, Family Network, has been a 

unique resource for parents since 1982. July 1 marked the silver 

anniversary of working with families across the social and economic 

spectrums in Highland Park. 

YEA! funds support Family Network’s very first project, the 

Parent/Child drop-in center, open from 9:30-11:30 a.m., Tuesdays through 

Fridays, during the school year and three days per week in the summers. 

During these two hours, children from birth to age four participate in social, 

educational and motor activities in developmentally appropriate classrooms 

staffed by early educators. 

In the Baby and Me program, parents and infants spend informal 

playtime with other families and an infant specialist. For toddlers and 

preschoolers, the program offers opportunities to practice brief separations in 

a supportive environment. “Learning to separate from a parent can be hard 

for young children, and Family Network provides the perfect environment 

for learning these kinds of transitions,” says Michelle Holleman, who 

attended the drop-in center regularly for seven years while her children were 

young. Parents are encouraged to remain in the classrooms until they and 

their children are ready to spend a short period of time apart. 

At that point, adults go to the Parent Lounge where they can talk with 

other parents and participate in a variety of support groups and learning 

workshops. A social worker is on staff to consult about general parenting and 

development issues and to help address the unique needs of specific families. 

Lisa Beth Gansberg began attending Family Network when her daughter 

Mallory (in photo above) was just 3 months and her son was 2 years old. 

“I discovered many opportunities to learn parenting skills, develop lifelong 

friendships for myself and my children and belong to a very special 

community within a large city.” 

With YEA! support, Family Network also offers a Dual Language 

morning program, which brings together Spanish- and English-speaking 

families on Thursdays. This is just one of Family Network’s many efforts to 

create an integrated community atmosphere at the center. Highland Park 

parent Mila Love says, “I love going to the dual language morning at Family 

Network. My son, Ethan, 22 months, soaks up every word. He regularly 

sings the Spanish version of the “clean up” song he learned, and has even 

taught it to his 4-year-old sister. ‘Ordinar, ordinar, todos vamos ordinar!’ 

I am so grateful for this terrific resource.” 

Through its programs for both Spanish- and English-speaking families in 

Highland Park, Family Network is supporting healthy child development 

and effective parenting as well as creating a close-knit microcosm of our 

diverse community. In these ways, YEA! Highland Park is helping to lay the 

foundation for the continued success of our entire community. Family 

Network, 330 Laurel Avenue, 847-433-0377, familynetworkcenter.org. 

Music Arts School – bringing music 

education to all in Highland Park 

The Music Arts School, which has served students from all ages and 

backgrounds since 1952. The school’s mission is “to create opportunities for 

people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in outstanding musical 

instruction.” To this end, the school provides early learning music programs 

for children beginning at birth, individual and group instrumental 

instruction and outreach programs that bring music into the community. 

The Music Arts School conducts a variety of free programming that 

enriches the community. According to Ann Oleinik, Director of 

Communication and Development, the Music Arts School’s outreach 

programs bring unique musical experiences and information about the 

school’s resources to those who wouldn’t otherwise have access. Its Visiting 

32 / Fall 2007

Artist Program sends instructors out to area nursery and elementary 

schools, particularly those serving large populations of children from lowincome 

households. The program enables children to explore instruments 

and world music traditions and provides music appreciation, ensembles, 

and master classes for students playing a variety of instruments. 

On May 30, saxophone teacher A.J. Kluth visited Oak Terrace 

Elementary School and introduced the third graders to wind instruments 

such as the saxophone, clarinet, flute and tin whistle. Kluth talked to the 

children about the history and construction of his instruments, showed 

them how to play and discussed the physics of how wind instruments 

work. The third graders enthusiastically questioned Kluth and are excited 

about his next visit to their school. Music Art School’s enrichment 

programming is provided at no cost to our community’s schools. 

The Music Arts School also provides outreach to seniors by offering 

recitals, lecture-recitals and various classical and world music appreciation 

workshops at the Highland Park Senior Center. Additional free 

programming is available to the general public and takes place at locations 

throughout Highland Park. One such program was held at the library this 

past spring. The free five-week course was titled, “Great Jazz Music: From 

Its Origins in New Orleans to the Current Chicago Scene.” 

The Music Arts School wants as many people in the community as 

possible to benefit from their high-quality music instruction. For those who 

aren’t able to pay the full cost of taking classes at the Music Arts School, 

YEA! Highland Park funds scholarships that allow the school to offer 

significantly reduced fees. Music Arts School, 477 Elm Place, 

847-432-8474, musicartsschool.com. 

Tri-Con Child Care Center – a hidden 

treasure in the heart of the community 

You’ve probably driven past one of the great assets of Highland Park 

without ever realizing it. Tri-Con Child Care Center is rather discreetly 

housed in the lower level of Trinity Episcopal Church on Laurel Avenue— 

just down the street from the Highland Park Public Library. But, don’t let its 

unimposing presence fool you; this program has profoundly affected 

hundreds of children and their families in its 36 years of providing 

subsidized child care and early learning to children from lower income 

families living or working in Highland Park. 

Tri-Con serves approximately 60 children ages 3 to 5 each year, with 85- 

90% coming from Spanish-speaking families. The agency provides the children 

with full-day, year-round care and early learning opportunities, including 

English language learning and early literacy, which research shows are critical 

to children’s success in primary school. A kindergarten enrichment program 

reinforces and enhances the children’s learning in the district schools. 

All of the families whose children attend Tri-Con receive assistance to 

help pay their child care fees. Many are eligible for and receive a statefunded 

subsidy for their fees, and the families make a weekly co-payment 

that averages about $40 per week depending on family size and income. 

According to Pam Feinberg, Executive Director of Tri-Con, one of the 

most difficult situations for families and for the program is when a family’s 

income goes up, often by just $50 or so a month, and they are no longer 

eligible for state-funded assistance. For example, a family of four can have a 

maximum gross annual income of no more than $36,192 in order to 

receive a subsidy. Once their income goes above that threshold, they are no 

longer eligible for any state assistance. 

Although the average income for a family of four at Tri-Con is $28,457, 

each year there are multiple families earning too much for state assistance, 

but clearly unable to pay the program’s full fee for care, which is $200 per 

week. Imagine going from a weekly out-of-pocket child care fee of $40 a 

week to $200 a week. The full fee for a single child would consume nearly 

30% of the family’s gross income. 

Tri-Con works hard each year to raise funds through grants, from 

donations by businesses and individuals and from other projects to provide 

scholarship assistance. These families are the working poor and without 

this kind of help would surely fall through the proverbial cracks. Without 

scholarships, they would have to replace Tri-Con’s high-quality child care 

with other more costly care that might lack the educational and family 

support benefits at Tri-Con. 

Tri-Con collaborates with other social services agencies to acquire a range 

of additional support services for families. They refer families for counseling 

and legal services as needed; they offer hearing and vision screenings for 


Fall 2007 / 33


children with the help of the health department; they coordinate food and 

clothing drives; and they work with the school district to obtain early 

intervention services for children with developmental challenges. 

In a lovely example of Highland Park’s nonprofit programs collaborating 

to benefit the community, the Music Arts School is currently providing an 

enrichment program at Tri-Con. Each week, Music Arts School staff 

provides two half-hour music learning sessions: one for the preschoolers and 

one for the kindergartners and campers. The programs are tailored to the 

developmental abilities and interests of the children and provide them with 

opportunities to explore music through instruments, body movement and 

voice. Leveraging community resources makes music education available to 

these children, enrichment they are otherwise unlikely to receive. 

By supporting the entire family, Tri-Con watches not only the children, 

but the parents, too, achieve their potential over time. In one example, a 

family enrolled their daughter just after arriving in the United States. They 

were thrilled to find the program, not only for its affordability, but because 

they could communicate in Spanish with the program’s bilingual staff. As 

she got older, the daughter became a very active volunteer at the center 

and eventually worked at Tri-Con as a camp coordinator. She is now 

teaching in the district schools and attributes her love of children and 

education, in part, to her positive experiences at Tri-Con. 

YEA! Highland Park funding allows Tri-Con Child Care Center to hire 

bilingual staff—key to helping children and families find a home away from 

Drive for Education! 

Upgrade your vehicle sticker 

to benefit District 112 schools 

Stickers on sale 

at City Hall 

in late August 

Your contribution 

is tax deductible 

as allowed by law. 

www.nssd112.org/112foundation 

a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit corporation 

home in Highland Park and successfully joining the community as students, 

parents and employees. Tri-Con Child Care Center, 425 Laurel Avenue, 

847-433-1450, pfeinberg@sbcglobal.net. 

Having fun while doing good 

According to Ray Geraci, your purchase of pavilion and lawn tickets 

comprises the majority of YEA! Highland Park proceeds. This means that 

you have a wonderful opportunity to make a difference. Family Network, 

the Music Arts School and Tri-Con Child Care Center—and many other 

worthy local agencies—depend on community support, including funding 

from YEA! Highland Park, to provide their range of services 

You can support YEA! Highland Park by becoming a sponsor and/or 

attending this year’s benefit concert, the Beach Boys on Saturday, 

September 1, 7:30 p.m. at Ravinia Festival. For more information about 

purchasing tickets, go to ravinia.org. For information about becoming a 

sponsor, contact YEA! Chairman Ray Geraci at 847-431-5691. 

And remember, as you enjoy a great evening of socializing and 

entertainment, you are also helping your neighbors enjoy the educational 

and cultural resources Highland Park has to offer. 

YEA! Highland Park 2006 beneficiaries 

Lester and Rosalie Anixter Center 

Adult Community Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 3,000 

The Art Center (formerly SFAC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 

Apple Tree Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 

Attic Playhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,000 

Family Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 

Family Service of South Lake Country . . . . . . . . . . . .5,000 

FOCUS on the Arts (HPHS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15,000 

Highland Park Community Foundation . . . . . . . . . . .10,000 

Highland Park Community House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,500 

Highland Park Community Nursery School 

and Day Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 

Highland Park/Highwood Home Child Care Association .30,000 

Highland Park High School College Scholarship Grant . .4,000 

Highland Park Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7,500 

Highland Park Strings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20,000 

Infinity Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,000 

Music Arts School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000 

Pilgrim Chamber Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7,500 

School-Age Child Care Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000 

School District #112 general arts education . . . . . . . .22,000 

Service Learning Program at School District #112 . . . . .3,000 

Tri-Con Child Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 

Volunteer Pool of Highland Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,500 

Total distributed in 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 295,000 

Wendy Smith is a consultant to nonprofits, a Certified 

Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and a freelance writer. You can 

contact her at wendySsmith@comcast.net or 847-831-2309. 

34 / Fall 2007

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THIS YOUNG CUB 

Wes Wenk 

PHOTOS: Matt Boltz, Engineer, Chicago Cubs Radio 

Highland Park native Cory Provus, the new pre-game 

host and sports reporter for the Chicago Cubs radio 

broadcast team in the booth at Wrigley Field 

Oh to be young, single and have a voice millions of sports fans instantly recognize. It may seem as if 

Highland Park native Cory Provus, not yet 30, won some sort of “American Idol” or “ESPN Anchor of the 

Future” contest. But like most “overnight successes,” the truth is Cory paid his dues, racking up thousands 

of play-by-play broadcasts since he was a teen at Highland Park High School. Cory’s got the talent to work 

162 Cubs games with Pat Hughes and Ron Santo, two other guys who know something about excellence. 

Back at Edgewood Junior High School, Cory Provus was in the cast of 

several musicals—not as a singer, he points out. Still, those school plays 

helped him develop confidence in front of audiences. A member of the class 

of 1996 (his family still lives in Highland Park), Cory began working on the 

“Giants In Action” TV show as a sophomore, writing and editing the 

monthly broadcast through his junior year. 

It was also during his last year that he got his first professional break. 

Cory noticed a bulletin board note for Fox Sports Chicago’s “Schoolyard 

Jam” TV program. He auditioned, was brought back twice as a finalist, then 

landed the job at the tender age of 17. During that gig, he covered high 

school football and basketball. Executive Producer Mike Sear also sent Cory 

to cover the Illinois bowling phenomenon, Kerry Schweiger. During an 

internship with “Bulls/Sox Underground,” Cory interviewed Bulls Coach 

Phil Jackson at the Berto Center for “Sports Channel Chicago.” 

He also played on a team, one year of Junior Varsity Tennis under Coach 

Mike Kolze, followed by three years on the varsity. Excited about college 

years to come, he had mainly heard about Illinois, Northwestern, and Big 

10 Schools. But some of the teachers and his guidance counselor brought 

Syracuse to his attention, which seemed a perfect fit with its extensive 

journalism and broadcasting programs, as well as the multiple radio and TV 

opportunities around central New York State. 

Cory was accepted at Syracuse University (the alma mater of noted 

sportscaster/legend Bob Costas and ESPN’s broadcaster Mike Tirico), where 

he earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. It was there that 

Cory developed an amazingly varied broadcasting resumé that included 

Syracuse football, basketball and lacrosse play-by-play coverage. His first 

baseball play-by-play experience came when Cory, still at Syracuse, was 

asked to cover the Auburn “Doubledays,” a minor league affiliate of the 

36 / Fall 2007

Houston Astros. Cory also did sports features for the 50,000-watt New York 

station, WAER. He would arrive at the station at 4 a.m. to broadcast the 

morning drive-time sports spots, even while continuing the seasonal play-byplay 

work that he enjoyed the most. 

Covering college sports led to a job with a multi-university sports 

network called International Sports Properties, (ISPSports.com, “America’s 

Home for College Sports”). From its Winston-Salem headquarters, ISP 

would send Cory to do play by play for a variety of schools including Ohio 

University, Wake Forest, University of Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech and Georgia 

Tech. This gave him exposure on ISP’s multiple affiliated radio stations 

across the ACC, SEC and PAC-10 conferences, covering most regions of the 

country. Cory worked with ISP Sports for seven years, also serving as a 

network anchor relaying scores from all over the United States. 

Nationwide sports updates followed; Cory did Sporting News Radio’s 

“Sporting News Flash” for a few months from their Northbrook, Illinois, 

studios; they have more than 350 national affiliates. But he was always 

ready to take the next out-of-town opportunity, including a great offer from 

the University of Alabama at Birmingham in early 2006. Cory was named 

the Voice of the UAB Blazers at age 28. 

So, how do you get from Birmingham to Chicago “I always agreed to take 

any broadcasting job, anywhere that I thought would help me get to my 

goal. I think sticking with play-by-play, rather than getting caught up in the 

controversial, often bitter world of sports talk radio, helped me continue to 

improve as a broadcaster. I also avoided making lots of enemies—that’s 

what can happen to the big-city, call-in show hosts.” 

Then, when we were thinking about the Bears Super Bowl, Cory was 

thinking baseball. He heard a rumor that WGN’s Andy Masur, then Santo 

and Hughes’ on-air partner, had been offered the San Diego Padres 

broadcasting job. Cory recorded his demo tapes and sent them to WGN. 

He had always maintained close contact with WGN Sports Director Dave 

Eanet and sportscaster David Kaplan, so when Cory made his interest known 

Cory Provus, on Highland Park 

“Once I got to high school, the wonderful ‘Stunts’ program— 

the kids did all the writing, choreography, directing—was such an 

unusual\way for kids to get some experience as well as have fun.” 

“I’m constantly back in HP, sometimes for an order of 

Michael’s cheese fries. I used to go to the old Shelton’s on Roger 

Williams, on my way to Ravinia. I caught a pretty wide range of 

concerts, from Tony Bennett to Jethro Tull.” 

“FOCUS on the Arts is one of the key reasons so many HPHS 

grads go on to success in TV, movies and the arts. It can seem ‘cool’ 

for kids to knock high school while they’re there, but it doesn’t take 

long to realize that Highland Park has something other kids envy: 

a chance to check out all those opportunities and make their 

mistakes very early—while there’s time to improve. I would love to 

come back and talk at FOCUS to help kids appreciate what they 

really have, how it helped me and so many others!” 

to WGN, he got the audition. Program Director Bob Shomper, VP/GM Tom 

Langmyer and Michael Lufrano (Senior VP, Community Affairs/General 

Counsel) were quickly impressed with the young broadcaster. 

Everything came together to showcase Cory as major league material. It 

didn’t hurt that for most of his life, Cory had constantly rehearsed the 

phrase, “This is Cory Provus, on the Chicago Cubs Radio Network,” until it 

was second nature. WGN took to the clear, relaxed and confident “pipes” 

Cory had developed; fans think he sounds much more like a 25-year 

broadcast veteran than a man who, less than a year ago, was broadcasting 

college football. Tapped to join Santo and Hughes, he first broadcast the 

final Spring training games. 

Cory, keenly aware of the change in his fortunes, had no time to reflect or 

give in to any butterflies. He was on a flight to Cincinnati for the Cubs/Reds 

2007 season opener. On the plane—Derrek Lee and other all-stars sitting 

back a few rows—Cory’s new broadcast partner, Ron Santo, came over and 

sat down next to him. Santo talked with Provus for hours. He encouraged the 

young announcer to tease him on the air, in the tradition of Pat Hughes, who 

always ribs Santo amusingly, and so respectfully. 

That must have been 

hard to imagine as a 

lifelong fan of the Cubs, 

of Hughes and, especially, 

of Santo himself. But Cory 

jumped right in on 

Opening Day, thanking 

Santo for picking up the 

tab on a welcome-to-the- 

Cubs dinner, but razzing 

the former pizza business 

owner for “only one tiny 

slice of pizza!” The kid 

was now one of the team, 

a team that keeps millions 

entertained between 

pitches. Cory knows he’s 

in stellar company. 

“Both Pat and Ron will 

undoubtedly be hall of 

famers,” says Cory. 

“Hughes in the Broadcast wing in Cooperstown, and Santo is way, way 

overdue for election to the Baseball Hall of Fame as one of the top third 

basemen in history!” 

As Bill Murray once said when filling in for an ailing Harry Caray, “The 

feeling of being in the Cubs radio booth is like the one you have on 

Christmas morning as a kid, when you come downstairs and you see that 

the milk and cookies were eaten, the carrot left for the reindeer is gone, 

presents are all around, and you know Santa has just been there!” 

Cory has been good, very good. He doesn’t have to “wait until next 

year.” He’s right where he wants to be, and his hometown fans would 

agree, he’s right where he belongs! 

Fall 2007 / 37

Fashion Week 

Jane Kaplan, Jane Kaplan Communications 

Bett’s 

Don’t even consider flying to Paris, Milan or New York City to see the 

hottest fall fashions. It’s “High Time for High Fashion” once again in 

Highland Park, where during the week of September 23 through 

September 29, you’ll see the cutting-edge trends for the coming seasons. 

Special events and trunk shows will be scheduled all over town, with 

showings of daytime and evening wear, jewelry, accessories and even the latest in eyewear, makeup 

and hair. The Art Center, located at 1957 Sheridan Road, will be the backdrop for informal modeling at 

a cocktail party on Tuesday, September 25, from 5:30 until 8:00 p.m., sponsored by North Shore 

Magazine. And, back by popular demand this year, the professional runway show will be at the 

Highland Park Country Club on Friday, September 28, at 11:30 a.m. 

Even though it’s still dog days of summer as we go to press, our Highland Park fashionista retailers 

talked about what will be in store for your wardrobe. Lynn Brodsky, owner of Over the Top, 1866 First 

Street, says that it’s all about heavier sweater dressing. Expect to see sleeves that are three-quarter or 

elbow length, with lots of layering under muted plaids and all shades of gray. 

Susan Schwartz, owner of Sunflower, 1882 Sheridan Road, agrees this will be the year of the 

sweater. She expects bold bright colors, with green and burnt orange dominating the palette. And, look 

for lots of hoodies, even in dressy fabrics. 

Bett Barnett, owner of Bett’s and the new B2, 678 Central Avenue, senses that it’s all about the 

outerwear. She’s telling us that that you’ll see black lacquered leather, shimmering suedes and 

wonderful cashmeres. Her color prediction: teal. 

Samantha Lurie of Enaz, 444 Central Avenue, tells us that along with the chunky sweaters and 

layered looks, we’ll be seeing extreme bottoms, from skinny to super wide-leg and, with them, many 

metallic accents. 

Lynn Komessar at Pieces Gallery, 644 Central Avenue, predicts many sweaters as well, but she says 

the focus will be on design. She has a special collection this fall created by Catherine Doll, a noted 

Chicago designer who uses her fine art background to create marvelous garments. 

The Treasure Chest 

Eyeland of St. Johns 

38 / Fall 2007

For many, the accessories are the most fun, 

and this year there are notable jewelry trends. 

Becky Barnes at Notice-Accessories for Living, 

Notice 2057 Green Bay Road, concentrates on “green” 

at her store and believes environmental 

awareness will be strong this year. You’ll be able 

to find purses made from recycled materials and jewelry crafted from discarded textiles, at her store 

and on the runway. 

Judy Rosenbloom, owner of The Treasure Chest, 1853 Second, says that we’ll be seeing baubles in 

orange and purple, from vintage to modern. Bold gold bracelets will be in and will be worn in 

multiples on the wrist. Long—very long—pendants are a trend that’s coming to the Midwest straight 

from the Hollywood fashion scene. 

Jill Garfinkle of Garfinkles Fine Jewelry, 462 Central Avenue adds that gold hoop earrings are in as 

well. Her prediction is that the bracelets on the runways will be glittering with diamonds. 

But what about the shoes Lori Andre, Lori’s Designer Shoes, 585 Central Avenue, says gray is the 

new black. We’ll see pumps in plaid and herringbone flannel fabric, and deep burgundy and purple will 

Enaz 

be the hot colors for footwear. Suedes and 

patents will be on the runway, as will Oxfordinspired 

leather pumps and booties. 

And when all eyes are on you, Steve Burek 

of Eyeland of St. Johns, 1819 St. Johns Avenue, 

says that high-fashion eyeglass frames will have 

decorative inlays of sterling silver. We’ll also be 

wearing oversized sunglasses, some with earth 

tones and some made of real horn and wood. 

Other Fashion Week participants (as we go 

to press) are b. Flirty, Banana Republic, Betty 

Schwartz’s Intimate Boutique, the Bootery, 

Citywoods, Indigo Clothing, Saks Fifth Avenue, 

SEE Eyewear, Village Set III and Williams Ski & 

Patio. Nothing’s more in style than shopping 

right here at home. 

Join us at an elegant Cocktail Party 

(September 25, $30) and at the runway 

show/luncheon (September 28, $60). 

Tickets are by calling the Chamber 

office, 847-432-0284, online at 

ehighlandpark.com, and at Sunset 

Foods Highland Park. 

Pieces 

Fall 2007 / 39

Things just keep improving… 

According to Sandy Saldano, Highland Park 

Chamber of Commerce vice president, 

Sidewalk Sale 2007 was the busiest event yet, 

with 81 vendors and tens of thousands of 

shoppers. The oldest, largest sale of its kind, 

this year’s event added live entertainment 

sponsored by Chamber members. “We had 

face painters, strolling musicians, magicians 

and more, keeping shoppers entertained and 

driving customers to sponsors’ booths,” says 

Sandy, chair of the event and owner of 

Therapeutic Kneads, a professional massage 

therapy center at 480 Elm. “We gave more 

chair massages than any other year, and we 

already have had a number of new clients 

who first met us at Sidewalk Sale.” Sidewalk 

Sale is an important way to solidify Highland 

Park as a destination in shoppers’ minds. 

Bringing it all to the streets makes it so easy 

for people to appreciate the charm, variety and 

excellence of our business mix. 

Suzette Greb, owner of Smugglers Jewelry 

& Accessories, would agree. Her shop is in 

Garrity Square on Deerfield Road, but being 

at Sidewalk Sale is an opportunity for the 

store to come to the customers. “It’s a great 

way for families to shop. In fact, our daughter, 

Alysa Kafkis, and granddaughter, Lanie, 

helped with Sidewalk Sale.” 

Roger Wolff, who owns the Bootery (492 Central) is a veteran of three 

decades of Sidewalk Sales. “It was by far, our best Sidewalk Sale ever. The 

moderate weather allowed people to shop longer. Each day of the sale was 

an increase over last year…by a lot!” 

Sidewalk Sale vendors are strictly limited to Highland Park Chamber 

of Commerce members. To get your membership kit, please call 

847-432-0284, or email frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com. 

Get to know her! Alycia Margolis has lived in Highland Park for 

the past 16 years and, with her husband Rob, raised two boys, Noah and 

Zachary. She previously worked for 

Amdur Productions and the Port 

Clinton Art Festival. She enjoys 

being active and working in the 

community. That is what brought 

her to the Highland Park Chamber 

of Commerce, where she works 

part-time helping out on special 

projects. To reach Alycia, please call 

847-432-0284 or email 

frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com. 

From the first word to the last, six00threefive is your 

magazine. We hope you enjoy the voices of our newest 

writers as well as our veterans. Add your voice, as a writer, 

photographer or just to tell us about great story ideas. Please 

call 847-432-0284 or email frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com. 

PHOTOS: Highland Park Chamber of Commerce 

40 / Fall 2007

TM 

Stan Megdall 

Char Terbeest-Kudla 

Douglas & Renee Sigwarth 

Mi Young Lee 

Rishar Miranda 

Bernard Blekfeld 

The acclaimed 

PORT CLINTON 

ART FESTIVAL 

AUGUST 25-26 

saturday/sunday 

10am-6pm 

Free Admission • 260 Juried Artists • Live Music • Festival Food 

Central Avenue, 1st & 2nd Streets 

Highland Park 

NEW FOR 2007! 

amdurproductions.com 

847-926-4300 

Presented by Robert Mondavi Private Selection 

Featuring local restaurants boasting 

their tastiest dishes and beverages! 

FIRST STREET PARKING DECK 

Sat. 10am-10pm & Sun. 10am-6pm

PHOTOS: Matt Boltz, Engineer, Chicago Cubs Radio - Wordspecs

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