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PRSRT STD<br />
U.S. Postage<br />
PAID<br />
Highland Park, IL<br />
Permit No. 72<br />
HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE<br />
508 Central Avenue, Suite 206<br />
Highland Park, Illinois 60035<br />
TM<br />
PHOTO: Jennifer Mordini Photographer, www.jennifermordini.com
Buffalo Grove<br />
600 N. Buffalo Grove Road<br />
847-465-9700<br />
Highland Park<br />
1725 N. McGovern Street<br />
847-681-8600<br />
Think Ahead<br />
Schaumburg<br />
275 S. Roselle Road<br />
847-352-1200<br />
Wheaton<br />
1000 W. Geneva Road<br />
630-260-9500
HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE<br />
www.chamberhp.com<br />
508 Central Avenue, Suite 206<br />
Highland Park, Illinois 60035<br />
847-432-0284 fax 847-432-2802<br />
STAFF<br />
Virginia Anzelmo Glasner, Executive Director<br />
Kim Loprest, Membership Development<br />
Alycia Margolis, Communications<br />
OFFICERS<br />
President George Markoutsas,<br />
Landscape Concepts Management<br />
1st VP Eve Del Monte,<br />
Prosumer Real Estate Sales & Appraisals<br />
VP Adam Kaplan, FDIS-Northern Illinois<br />
Treasurer Jeffrey Levin,<br />
JT Levin and Associates, Inc.<br />
Immediate Past President Sandy Saldano,<br />
Therapeutic Kneads, Ltd.<br />
BOARD OF DIRECTORS<br />
Scott Adams, National City Bank<br />
Nicolas DeGrazia, Bitter Jester Creative, Inc.<br />
Brian Lewis, Baizer Kolar & Lewis<br />
Janet Long, Equinox Fitness Club<br />
Marci Minorini, Academic Tutoring Centers, Inc.<br />
Bufi Selimos, NorthShore University HealthSystem<br />
at Highland Park Hospital<br />
Robin Wilson, Baird & Warner<br />
Katie Wiswald, Highland Park Bank & Trust<br />
Jennifer Wood, Ravinia Festival<br />
EX OFFICIO<br />
Steven Mandel, City Councilman<br />
Steve Meyer, Park District of Highland Park<br />
PUBLICATION GROUP<br />
60035@ehighlandpark.com<br />
Exec. Ed. Abbe Sparks, Abbe Sparks Media Relations<br />
Assoc. Ed. Jane Giles, Leeds Communications<br />
Co-Chair Michael Del Monte,<br />
Prosumer Real Estate Sales & Appraisals<br />
Co-Chair Kelly Huegel, Park District of Highland Park<br />
Graphic Designer Deborah Barry,<br />
<strong>Wordspecs</strong> Advertising Agency<br />
Ad Sales & Marketing Consultant Michael Bloomquist<br />
Sharon Eisendrath, Signs Now<br />
Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance<br />
• SUBMIT NEWS OF YOUR BUSINESS<br />
• VOLUNTEER FOR A WRITING ASSIGNMENT<br />
• OFFER YOUR COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHS<br />
• REQUEST A COMPLETE MEDIA KIT<br />
call 847-432-0284<br />
fax 847-432-2802<br />
email 60035@CHAMBERHP.COM<br />
write 508 CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 206, 60035<br />
six00threefive is published quarterly to promote the<br />
diverse business community in Highland Park, Illinois.<br />
© 2009 Highland Park Chamber of Commerce.<br />
Printed on Recycled Paper<br />
Spring 2009 / 1
Have your birthday party at Ravinia<br />
For the first time, Ravinia will make kids’ birthday party packages available<br />
for our Kraft Kids Concerts. Prices as low as $20 per person.<br />
We’ll do it all.<br />
To plan your party call 847-266-5087 or email groups@ravinia.org.<br />
June 6 Ko-Thi Dance Company<br />
June 13 Dirty Sock Funtime Band<br />
July 5 Justin Roberts<br />
July 25 New Millennium Orchestra<br />
2009 Kraft Kids Concert Series<br />
August 1 Das Puppenspiel Puppet Theater<br />
August 8 Ella Jenkins<br />
August 15 Tiempo Libre<br />
August 29 Ralph’s World<br />
ALSO, sign up for the FREE Ravinia Kids Club at ravinia.org/kidsclub (ages 12 and under)<br />
Sponsor: Media Support:<br />
Be a star!<br />
GOODIE BAGS. TENTS. MUSIC. FOOD.
On Our Cover<br />
Something Old, Something New . . . .12<br />
Features<br />
New Chamber Board . . . . . . . . . . .7<br />
Painting the Streets Electric . . . . . . .23<br />
Tapped In! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24<br />
Our Neighborhoods: Braeside . . . . . .26<br />
Columns<br />
Chamber Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .5<br />
Welcome, New Members . . . . . . . . .6<br />
Speaking Professionally . . . . . . . . . .8<br />
Contractors’ Corner . . . . . . . . . . .18<br />
New to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20<br />
The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28<br />
EXPAND YOUR CONTACTS! JOIN THE BIGGER-THAN-<br />
EVER HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE!<br />
call 847-432-0284<br />
email KIM@EHIGHLANDPARK.COM<br />
write 508 CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 206, 60035<br />
Index of Advertisers<br />
American Enterprise Bank . . . .inside front<br />
The Basement Men . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
Becker Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5<br />
Beermann Swerdlove . . . . . . .inside back<br />
Bluegrass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10<br />
The BBQ Pit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17<br />
The Bootery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11<br />
D & R Autoworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11<br />
Greco Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
Highland Park CBD Alliance . . . . . . . 15<br />
Infinity Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17<br />
Keyth Secure Technologies . . . . . . . . 1<br />
Las Puertas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
Luxuria Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4<br />
Molly Maid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25<br />
Park District of Highland Park . . . . . . . 11<br />
Port Clinton Square . . . . . . . .back cover<br />
Ravinia Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2<br />
Ravinia Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3<br />
Rick’s Auto Care & Collision Repair . . . . 10<br />
Sliders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
Spex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25<br />
Therapeutic Kneads . . . . . . . . . . . . 3<br />
Viti Insurance/Viti Financial . . . . . . . . 21<br />
Wenk Insurance Agencies . . . . . . . . . 7<br />
Williams Ski Haus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9<br />
SIX00THREEFIVE IS THE QUALITY ADVERTISING YOUR<br />
COMPANY DESERVES. ADVERTISE WITH US!<br />
call 847-833-6768<br />
email ADSALES@CHAMBERHP.COM<br />
write 508 CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 206, 60035<br />
Therapeutic Rewards…<br />
for taking care of yourself<br />
Earn reward points every time you<br />
~ enjoy a massage<br />
~ re-book when you check out<br />
~ schedule a standing appointment<br />
~ refer a friend or physician<br />
~ purchase gift cards or self-care products<br />
~ try a different therapist or service<br />
Here’s the point! Start earning points today!<br />
Points are redeemable in the form of gift cards good<br />
on services and/or products. See store for details.<br />
Added value…less stress<br />
How long is a one-hour massage? A full 60 minutes!<br />
You deserve nothing less…<br />
Same-day appointments<br />
Purchase gift cards<br />
by phone or online!<br />
NORTH SHORE’S PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY CENTER<br />
1779 Green Bay, HP<br />
m-th 9-8; fr 9-6; sa-su 9-5<br />
IL State Lic. 227-001829<br />
www.WeKneadYou.com<br />
847-266-0131<br />
• preventative sewer rodding<br />
• sump/backup pump maintenance<br />
• hot water tank check<br />
Schedule ANY TWO by May 15 and mention “60035.” We’ll take $25 OFF your invoice.<br />
Because nothing tanks a household budget like a flooded basement<br />
www.RaviniaPlumbing.com 847432-5561<br />
Spring 2009 / 3
THINKING ABOUT BUILDING<br />
OR REMODELING?<br />
CALL JEANNINE SCHECK OR CHERYL SCHECK<br />
Call for a private showroom tour and receive a free gift,<br />
a collection of luxury design magazines/books. (While supplies last)<br />
WWW.LUXURIAHOMESINC.COM | 847 996 0660
Please Join Us!<br />
These premier Chamber events draw<br />
shoppers, visitors and the press from all over<br />
Chicagoland and are open to the public.<br />
STUDENT HONOR DINNER<br />
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2009<br />
❉ A wonderful evening when Highland Park<br />
businesses recognize exceptional seniors, selected<br />
by their school for excellence in academics, sports,<br />
extra-curricular activities, volunteerism and more.<br />
Chamber members sponsor students and/or<br />
provide scholarships to Highland Park seniors from<br />
both Highland Park and Deerfield High Schools.<br />
Business people and residents alike may contribute<br />
to the scholarship fund or underwrite an honored<br />
student’s attendance at the event. These students<br />
represent potential business and community<br />
leaders of the future.<br />
GOLF OUTING<br />
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2009<br />
❉ A day of golf is a wonderful way to reward<br />
employees and clients, thank customers, network,<br />
meet community leaders, or just relax and enjoy the<br />
company of friends. Sign up as a foursome or let us<br />
match you with other golfers. Have your friends and<br />
family join you for the casual supper and silent<br />
auction after the 18th hole.<br />
SIDEWALK SALE<br />
THURSDAY-SATURDAY, JULY 23-25, 2009<br />
❉ From the useful to the unique, the shops of<br />
Highland Park offer bargains galore during its<br />
annual Sidewalk Sale Days. More than 80<br />
merchants from throughout Highland Park move<br />
their merchandise to the Central Business District<br />
for this shopping extravaganza, attracting tens of<br />
thousands of shoppers for the three-day sale.<br />
FASHION WEEK HIGHLAND PARK<br />
SEPTEMBER 2009, DATE TBD<br />
❉ An exciting annual fashion event designed to draw<br />
all fashionistas to Highland Park. Special in-store<br />
events all week long! The highlights include the<br />
newest fall fashions from Highland Park retailers<br />
and a cocktail party with informal modeling.<br />
Chamber events are powerful opportunities for<br />
you to meet potential clients, develop your<br />
referral network, create B2B connections and<br />
develop life-long friendships. Non-members are<br />
welcome to attend to experience what<br />
Chamber membership can do for you.<br />
HIGHLAND PARK NETWORKING GROUP<br />
FIRST WEDNESDAYS, 7:30-9:00 AM<br />
WOMEN’S NETWORKING GROUP<br />
THIRD THURSDAYS, 8:00-9:30 AM<br />
To become an event sponsor, exhibitor or<br />
presenter, your application for membership is<br />
most welcome. Let the power of the Chamber<br />
take your business to the next level. The<br />
Highland Park Chamber of Commerce is<br />
“Your Resource for Business Success.”<br />
FOR DETAILS, CALL 847-432-0284,<br />
OR VISIT WWW.CHAMBERHP.COM<br />
Photo Credits: HNK Architectural Photography<br />
Think of us as your<br />
Flight to Quality<br />
Richard Becker, AIA<br />
Highland Park<br />
Architects<br />
and<br />
Residents<br />
Becker Architects Limited<br />
847 433 6600<br />
www.beckerarchitects.com
Welcome, New Members<br />
6<br />
REWARD THE BUSINESSES COMMITTED TO<br />
OUR LOCAL ECONOMY. CALL THE<br />
HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE<br />
AT 847-432-0284 FOR REFERALS TO LOCAL<br />
RESOURCES AND BROWSE AN UP-TO-DATE<br />
DIRECTORY AT WWW.CHAMBERHP.COM.<br />
Midwest Diversified Services Group<br />
(MDS Group)<br />
MDS Group advises companies on<br />
financial and operational improvements<br />
for better performance, more accurate<br />
financial reports, a better business plan,<br />
or more effective operations.<br />
W.G. Tim Mahon, Principal<br />
210 Skokie Valley Road, Suite 108, HP<br />
847-732-1730<br />
www.mdsgroupllc.com<br />
March of Dimes<br />
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit<br />
organization for pregnancy and baby<br />
health, with chapters nationwide.<br />
Rebecca Milbert, Asst. Community Director<br />
111 W. Jackson, Suite 2200, Chicago 60604<br />
312-596-4721<br />
www.marchofdimes.com<br />
Vennen Company<br />
Construction management.<br />
Dennis Vennen, President<br />
3464 Old Mill Road, HP<br />
847-926-8258<br />
www.vennencompany.com<br />
Verizon Wireless<br />
Corporate store servicing current<br />
customers and opening new lines of<br />
service. Technicians on site to<br />
troubleshoot customers’ phone issues.<br />
Carmen Botzoc & Rhett Mitchell, Store Managers<br />
235 Skokie Boulevard, Northbrook 60062<br />
847-272-7770<br />
Unique Upholstery, Carpet<br />
& Rug Cleaning, Inc.<br />
Upholstery, carpet and rug cleaning.<br />
Larry Rosenthal, President<br />
1032 Brentwood Circle, Buffalo Grove 60089<br />
847-459-1600<br />
www.uniquecarpetcleaning.com<br />
John G. Harty, Ltd.<br />
Construction management and building.<br />
Consultants for residential and<br />
commercial projects.<br />
John Harty, President/Owner<br />
PO Box 1940, HP<br />
847-266-1845<br />
www.johnharty.com<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
The Soap Box Shop<br />
All natural body care products and green<br />
products.<br />
Laurie Williams, Owner<br />
1853 Second Street, HP<br />
847-681-0267<br />
www.thesoapboxshop.com<br />
Sacred Spaces<br />
Works with homeowners and businesses<br />
to create clutter free environments that<br />
work for you.<br />
Riv Lynch, Professional Organizer<br />
1623 McGovern Street, HP<br />
847-363-5394<br />
www.SacredSpacesHome.com<br />
Cellar Gate<br />
Charming Tuscan atmosphere that<br />
features fine domestic and imported<br />
wines, Artisan foods and cheeses to<br />
sample or purchase. Gift baskets and<br />
wine accessories.<br />
Mike & Kayla Steffens, Owners<br />
524 Sheridan Road, Highwood 60040<br />
847-748-8086<br />
Global Point LLC.<br />
Full service provider of computer network<br />
services, enabling comanies to take<br />
advantage of those technologies larger<br />
companies use at a fraction of the cost.<br />
Greg Zejer, President<br />
1954 First Street #211, HP<br />
847-691-3163<br />
www.globalpointLLC.com<br />
Whole Foods Market – Deerfield<br />
The leading natural and organic food<br />
supermarket and America’s first nationally<br />
certified organic grocer.<br />
Perri Kramer, Marketing and Community<br />
Relations<br />
760 Waukegan Road, Deerfield 60015<br />
847-444-1900<br />
www.wholefoodsmarket.com<br />
Healing Touch Therapy<br />
Utilizes the flow of energy from the<br />
practitioner to the client to enhance the<br />
healing process from illness, surgery,<br />
injury and reduces pain, stress and<br />
anxiety.<br />
Marcie Bregman<br />
1797 Elmwood Drive, HP<br />
847-831-3680<br />
www.HealingTouchPrograms.com<br />
Executive Condition<br />
Fitness Training and MMA Self Defense<br />
Cardio.<br />
Scott Lorenz, Owner<br />
1490 Old Deerfield Road, HP<br />
708-369-6948<br />
Transcendence Lake Forest<br />
Beauty institute and private women’s club<br />
designed to create wellness, balance and<br />
stress management for inner peace and<br />
outside beauty.<br />
Yelena Dolgin, General Manager<br />
27861 Irma Lee Circle, Lake Forest 60045<br />
847-816-9140<br />
www.transcendenceLF.com<br />
Valentino Baielli Art<br />
& Antique Restoration<br />
A full service art and antique restoration<br />
service, specializing in fine furniture,<br />
painting, replacement and installation of<br />
leather tops, gold and silver leaf restoration.<br />
We build custom made furniture as well as<br />
reproductions of antiques.<br />
Valentino Baielli, Owner<br />
1546 Old Skokie Road (rear), HP<br />
847-831-3115<br />
www.Vbart-antiquerestoration.com<br />
Sunrise Tree Service<br />
A full-service, fully insured tree and shrub<br />
care service operating locally since 1963.<br />
Geil Rochford & Steve McGuinn,<br />
Arborist Representatives<br />
110 Midlothian Road, Hawthorn Woods 60047<br />
847-256-TREE (8733)<br />
www.sunrisetreeservice.com<br />
Field Violin Workshop<br />
Full service violin, viola, cello, bass and<br />
bow sales, rental and repair/restoration,<br />
bow rehabbing. Music stands, music<br />
magazines.<br />
Gerald Field<br />
451 Roger Williams Ave., HP<br />
847-433-8522<br />
www.fieldviolinworkshop.com<br />
Green Living Designs (dba) Globus, Inc.<br />
Our showroom features custom-designed<br />
kitchen & bathroom cabinetry from a<br />
selection of different types of wood with<br />
customizable door fronts, water-efficient<br />
faucets, recycled glass tile and bamboo<br />
flooring, as well as other products.<br />
1930 First Street, HP<br />
847-681-0126<br />
www.globuscontractors.com<br />
www.greenlivingdesigns.info<br />
Landscape Concepts Management<br />
Commercial landscape maintenance<br />
company serving the entire Midwest.<br />
George Markoutsas, Marketing Director<br />
31745 N. Alleghany Road, Grayslake 60030<br />
847-223-3800<br />
www.landscapeconcepts.com<br />
Sugar River Collection<br />
Jewelry, pottery, accent furniture, pastel<br />
portraits and photography.<br />
Derek & Wendy Schmidt, Owners<br />
325 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood 60040<br />
847-433-5295
Return on investment<br />
An exclusive privilege of membership<br />
in the Highland Park Chamber of<br />
Commerce is the opportunity to work<br />
with our standing committees.<br />
Expand your professional network!<br />
Executive Committee<br />
George Markoutsas<br />
Landscape Concepts Management<br />
executive@chamberhp.com<br />
Oversees Finance,<br />
Policy/Legislative, City/Chamber,<br />
Board Governance, Alliance, Other<br />
Business Districts<br />
Communications/Marketing<br />
Nicolas DeGrazia<br />
Bitter Jester Creative<br />
communications@chamberhp.com<br />
Oversees Tech Task Force,<br />
Mkt./PR and Publications<br />
Special Events<br />
Marci Minorini<br />
Academic Tutoring Centers,<br />
events@chamberhp.com<br />
Oversees Golf Outing, Lose<br />
Weight–Feel Great, Student<br />
Honor Dinner, Sidewalk Sale,<br />
Fashion Week<br />
Membership<br />
Robin Willson, Baird & Warner<br />
Janet Long, Equinox Fitness Club<br />
membership@chamberhp.com<br />
Oversees Networking, After Hours,<br />
Ambassadors, Programming,<br />
New Member Orientation<br />
Homeowners • Auto<br />
Executive Disability • Life<br />
Employee Benefits • IRA • 401k<br />
Office Property and Liability<br />
Worker’s Compensation<br />
Since 1932<br />
WENK INSURANCE AGENCIES, INC.<br />
Our office is in Highland Park<br />
600 Central Avenue<br />
Port Clinton Square<br />
2009 Highland Park Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors<br />
Sitting (l. to r.): Janet Long, Equinox Fitness; Jennifer Wood, Ravinia Festival; Eve Del<br />
Monte, Prosumer Real Estate Sales & Appraisals; Bufi Selimos, Highland Park Hospital-<br />
NorthShore University HealthSystem; Robin Wilson, Baird & Warner; Marci Minorini,<br />
Academic Tutoring Centers; Katie Wiswald, Highland Park Bank & Trust; Ginny A.<br />
Glasner, Executive Director Highland Park Chamber<br />
Standing (l. to r.): Steve Meyer, Park District of Highland Park; Steve Mandel, City<br />
Councilman; Adam Kaplan, FDIS Northern Illinois; Jeffrey Levin, JT Levin & Associates;<br />
Scott Adams, National City Bank; Brian Lewis, Baizer, Kolar & Lewis; George Markoutsas,<br />
Landscape Concepts Management; Sandy Saldano, Therapeutic Kneads<br />
Not pictured: Nicolas DeGrazia, Bitter Jester Creative<br />
Try our after-hours free quotation<br />
www.WenkInsurance.com<br />
847-433-8370<br />
Pres. Chuck Wenk<br />
and Duke, our<br />
“flying” consultant<br />
Spring 2009 / 7<br />
PHOTO: Patrick Gipson
Highland Park High School Athletic Director Bobbie Monroe reports that the<br />
HPHS Sports Hall of Fame inducted the Class of 2008 on December<br />
12, 2008. The reception and induction took place just before the tip off of<br />
the varsity HP/Deerfield basketball game (HP 53, DF 36). Inductees were:<br />
George Hillder, state swim champion, Class of 1946, as well as his state<br />
medley relay teammates Henry Date and Steve Pollak; Steve Borenstein,<br />
basketball stand-out, Class of 1971; and Bradley Kramer, state tennis singles<br />
champion, Class of 1993. Also honored was Manuel de la Torre, who was<br />
unable to attend his 2006 induction honoring his 1940 individual state<br />
champion in boys’ golf. Congratulations to all of the inductees!<br />
The Borenstein induction will hit home especially for those who were<br />
graduated in the ’70s. For most of us, the move from “8th-grade big-shot” to<br />
“freshman nobody” is only a temporary set-back, complete with upperclassmen<br />
selling phantom elevator passes and bogus library cards, etc. But<br />
when all of a sudden, one of your neighborhood pals is elevated to the<br />
varsity basketball team, it feels like the whole class has been put on the map!<br />
Steve shooting in white, #12, with teammates Bill Casey, #52,<br />
and Larry Piacenza, #10<br />
That’s how we all felt in early 1968, when speedy 5'9" ball-handling wizard<br />
Steve Borenstein was suddenly bringing the ball down court for the Giants<br />
before the rest of us had even found first year classrooms! In his four years of<br />
varsity ball—playing alongside some other HP greats such as 6'6" forward Rick<br />
Piacenza, Brad Lind, Art Elliot, Kim Hammerberg, Frank Travetto and another<br />
speedy guard, Larry Piacenza, Steve and the two Pias helped pull off one of the<br />
most amazing upsets in Suburban basketball history. In 1970, the 5-15 HP<br />
Giants stunned the state’s #2 team, Waukegan, at Waukegan, during the<br />
Regional tournament following the Giants’ otherwise mediocre season.<br />
Steve’s younger brother Mark Borenstein (who also played varsity<br />
basketball for HPHS and is President of Marcus Video Productions, a video<br />
and multi-media communications company), took the picture at right, and<br />
was one of those instrumental in putting together the event. Once Steve<br />
was elected, he seemed as proud as a brother could possibly be!<br />
From left: Billy Borenstein (HPHS ’68); Mark Borenstein (’74);<br />
Dad Sid, age 90, once owner of Camelot Restaurant on Skokie<br />
Boulevard in Northbrook; Steve Borenstein (’71)<br />
Head Coach Chuck Schramm recalls promoting Borenstein about<br />
halfway into that ’67-’68 season. “Steve and Gene Melchiorre had been the<br />
two best high school ball-handling guards I had ever seen, and we had been<br />
having trouble getting the ball down court early that season. Then when<br />
Mickey Cousins got hurt, I moved Borenstein up. From that point on, it<br />
was a privilege to have that type of talent, which made us a threat in any<br />
Suburban League game. That later blended so well with Rick Piacenza’s<br />
talents during their junior and senior years! It also kept opposing defenses<br />
honest—our guys had a passion for fierce defense.”<br />
“The Coach points out with a smile, “I have to say Borenstein was the best<br />
player I ever coached. He never had a bad game, due to his amazing skills. The<br />
kid looked good even when missing shots, the way DiMaggio did striking out!”
Steve shoots<br />
Teammate Piacenza adds, “It was a privilege to play with Steve<br />
Borenstein at HPHS! Steve was doing things with a basketball that<br />
absolutely no other high school player was able to match. Only Pete<br />
Maravich possessed more innovative guard skills at that time.”<br />
Piacenza continues, “The opportunity to watch and learn from him<br />
directly impacted my development from a limited-skills rebounder/post<br />
defender, to a 6'5" guard/forward/center. The fact that opposing teams’<br />
defensive strategies focused on stopping Steve provided the platform to<br />
develop my skills in relative obscurity until the second half of our senior year.<br />
Steve’s lessons allowed me to play collegiate ball at Wisconsin, pro ball in<br />
Europe and as a contract practice player with the Houston Rockets in 1977.”<br />
Borenstein himself remembers, “That night was an exciting, amazing<br />
event for me. I feel fortunate to have learned from great coaches and to<br />
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have played with terrific teammates. That infamous upset over Waukegan<br />
taught me so many life lessons that I still (38 years later) think about it and<br />
tell that story to anyone who will listen!”<br />
Inducting Steve Borenstein into the HPHS Sports Hall of Fame was both<br />
a well-deserved salute to a really talented ballplayer who was exciting to<br />
watch, as well as a welcome trip back to some great Suburban League<br />
memories that are now nearly 40 years old!<br />
Also on the basketball front, Highwood Small Fry Basketball is<br />
celebrating its 40th year in 2009! This non-for-profit organization has served<br />
two generations of Highland Park kids. Founded by current Board Chairman<br />
Ozzie Mazzetta and the legendary Marv Baker in the 1960s, HSF’s current<br />
President is Highwood Mayor Vince Donofrio, whose own involvement dates<br />
back to the early ’70s. Head Coach Verne Reich, now in his 26th year with<br />
the program, points out that “We’re a whole lot more than just a basketball<br />
program. Though we won three International Championships in the late<br />
1990s, we hang our hat on teaching fundamentals and also in teaching lessons<br />
about life learned off the court. Each January we host Small Fry teams from<br />
inner city Newark, NJ, and welcome players into our homes for a weekend of<br />
basketball and fun. We don’t even keep score on our international scrimmages,<br />
so that all participants from all over the world are winners!”<br />
Highwood Small Fry must be doing some serious teaching too, as one of<br />
their own—Chris Quinn—now plays for the NBA’s Miami Heat. Lakers Coach<br />
(and former Bulls Coach) Phil Jackson’s twin sons played in the program.<br />
Reich adds that the Small Fry motto is, “The baskets are lower, and the ball is<br />
smaller!” The original name of the program was “Highwood Little Guys<br />
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Spring 2009 / 9
Speaking Professionally (continued from previous page)<br />
Basketball.” You can contact Verne Reich and Highwood Small Fry Basketball<br />
at 847-324-1900, or email him at verne@donedealpromotions.com.<br />
“We feel we can help businesses of any size and type along the North<br />
Shore,” claims Jeffrey Levin, � President of JT Levin & Associates.<br />
Levin moved his accounting and tax services business to HP in<br />
December of ’07, right in the heart<br />
of the busiest time of year for<br />
accounting firms. “Most people<br />
think that March and April are the<br />
worst for accountants, but<br />
December is crunch-time when we<br />
help clients evaluate the entire year<br />
as it closes, with time for lastminute<br />
adjustments.”<br />
Levin adds, “As a small businessowner<br />
myself, I feel uniquely<br />
qualified to relate to other small<br />
businesses, including the pressures<br />
they deal with day to day. I tell<br />
clients to ‘hand that project over to<br />
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covering their backs.” JT, as friends<br />
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Highland Park is fortunate to have some talented, “big-city” law firms<br />
conveniently tucked into downtown Highland Park. One of these,<br />
Becker Gurian, is celebrating its 15th year as a law firm offering<br />
sophisticated commercial real estate services to clients nationwide. Founded<br />
by Martin Becker and Jeffrey Gurian when they decided to merge their<br />
practices to better serve some shared clients, they recently added a younger<br />
partner, Robert Blacher, to create the next generation of this growing firm.<br />
Today Becker Gurian is a team of highly-skilled, deal-making and<br />
business-oriented attorneys who bring large law firm and in-house corporate<br />
experience to the Highland Park area. “Client service is crucial to our firm.<br />
We have worked hard to create an infrastructure that works for the benefit<br />
of our clients,” points out Marty Becker. “By having experienced, senior-level<br />
attorneys operating locally, we’re able to provide clients with everything they<br />
would expect downtown, yet at much more reasonable rates!”<br />
The public instantly thinks, “call a lawyer” for accidents with injuries.<br />
But the need for a real estate law firm doesn’t dawn on people as quickly,<br />
yet it can be crucial in guaranteeing that a transaction is handled favorably!<br />
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Becker Gurian plans to continue servicing clients across the country from<br />
their Central Avenue offices, as they help navigate the current economic<br />
conditions, assisting with development, management, leasing, financing,<br />
acquisition and disposition of commercial real estate properties. Get to<br />
know (l. to r.) � Bob Blacher, Jeff Gurian, and Marty Becker.<br />
513 Central Avenue, Suite 400, HP, 847-433-2442,<br />
www.beckergurian.com<br />
Wes Wenk covers the professional endeavors in Highland Park:<br />
financial, medical, legal, consulting, office and home-based,<br />
as well as our non-profit organizations. Email<br />
wes@wenkinsurance.com, or fax 847-433-1345.<br />
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Kelly Huegel and Jane Giles<br />
With award-winning schools and parks, abundant shopping,<br />
and personal and professional service providers, it’s no<br />
secret that Highland Park is a great place to raise your<br />
family. But less well known to suburban and city<br />
neighbors—and even to Highland Park’s own residents—is<br />
that this special community is also really an exceptional<br />
place to plan and experience that single most important<br />
tradition of starting a new life together—the wedding.<br />
Bride Leslye O’Neal with her bouquet from Floral Gardens<br />
12<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
PHOTO: James Spada<br />
From uniquely special venues, world-class caterers, top-drawer florists,<br />
photographers, stationery shops, and spas for hair, skin, makeup and nails,<br />
to boutiques renowned for their dress, shoe, and gift selections appropriate<br />
for bridal party and guests alike, Highland Park and next door neighbor<br />
Highwood, have it all.<br />
The Beautiful Bride<br />
Every bride dreams of looking and feeling her most radiant and glamorous-self<br />
the day of her wedding and pampering beauty treatments abound throughout<br />
these two communities. Among these is Salon Volé (1775 St. Johns<br />
Avenue, HP, 847-432-2640, www.salonvolehighlandpark.com), where<br />
Anthony Volpentesta finds today’s brides taking hairstyle cues from the “red<br />
carpet,” weaving flowers, sparkles or feather embellishments into their hair to<br />
achieve a romantic look. He also advised that tight up-dos, now out, are<br />
replaced by a softer, relaxed look for upswept hair. And by pulling out a few<br />
pins from soft curls, the bride can easily release her mane, literally letting her<br />
hair down for a less formal, post-ceremony reception.<br />
At Jen Z’s Beauty Services (2709 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood,<br />
847-433-8401, www.jenzsbeautyservicesinc.com), a menu of head-to-toe<br />
beauty services are available. Owner Jennifer Zanotti advises bridal clients to<br />
book skin treatments, (waxing, facials, chemical peels and the like) well in<br />
advance of the big day. (No one wants red skin or other reactions lurking<br />
behind their veil.) Today’s trends, said Jennifer, emphasize neutral colors and<br />
natural products. “But, don’t be afraid to add a little pizzazz, like false eye<br />
lashes, which look great in photos,” recommended Jennifer. “Every bride’s<br />
goal is to keep things simple and to accentuate her own natural beauty.”<br />
And whether showing off her bouquet or new ring, the bride’s hands are<br />
bound to draw a lot of attention, making a professional manicure a must.<br />
From the guests’ perspective, their first glimpse into the wedding is the<br />
invitation. These often incorporate designs that convey the look (color<br />
scheme) and feel (formal vs. informal) of the event. According to Mayra<br />
Figueroa of Paper Source (490 Central Avenue, 847-266-6100,<br />
www.paper-source.com) wedding invitations with visual dimension (layers,<br />
textures and fabrics) are popular as are custom lettering and logos, not just<br />
on invitations, but on menus, place cards, even on hotel baskets for out-oftown<br />
guests. Party favors can include personalized boxes filled with contents<br />
such as cookies or mini wine bottles with the couple’s customized<br />
decorations and labels. A newer trend finds elegant cards designed in the<br />
wedding’s theme communicating the couple’s donation to a favored charity<br />
in lieu of traditional party favors. Another option is to purchase supplies from
a well-stocked stationery shop and create the invitation and accompanying<br />
materials yourself. Newlywed Leslye O’Neal, who married last year in<br />
Highland Park, relied on the products and services of many Highland Park<br />
vendors, among them the Paper Source. Here she found all the materials she<br />
needed to design and hand-make her wedding invitations, programs, menu<br />
cards, seating place cards and thank you notes. Though she admits, if she<br />
had to do it over, she would be inclined to leave this rigorous task to the<br />
professionals.<br />
Picture Perfect Venues<br />
If nature’s colorful serenity is your definition of a picture perfect wedding,<br />
Highland Park’s own Memorial Park is the quintessential romantic setting<br />
for an outdoor ceremony or photo session. The focal point of this location<br />
(405 Prospect Avenue—the grassy triangle at the intersection of Prospect<br />
and Laurel Avenues) is its charming gazebo set amidst the tranquility of a<br />
quiet residential neighborhood and situated conveniently close to downtown<br />
Highland Park. Memorial Park is one of 50 HP Park District parks and<br />
facilities. Another prime location, the North Shore Yacht Club<br />
(31 Park Avenue) may be the perfect alternative to a destination wedding.<br />
Imagine exchanging vows before a sunset on the shores of Lake Michigan.<br />
The Club’s cottage-like facility at Park Avenue Beach offers a cozy ambience<br />
that rents from May 1 through October 31. This intimate gathering spot<br />
Exterior view of Highland Park Community House<br />
features a main hall, fireplace lounge, observation deck and kitchen. For<br />
more information about these or any park district venue, call (847) 831-<br />
3810 or visit its website at www.pdhp.org.<br />
Highland Park is also home to several “hidden” wedding venues,<br />
such as the Highland Park Community House (1991 Sheridan<br />
Road, 847432-1515, www.highlandparkcommunityhouse.org). Behind<br />
its distinguished white columns and French doors lies the lovingly<br />
renovated vintage charm of this historic landmark. Its spacious ballroom<br />
with arched ceiling, large bay windows and stage provide an elegant<br />
atmosphere seating up to 200 or with dance floor, 150 guests. There is<br />
also a large living room, newly remodeled powder rooms and a state-ofthe-art<br />
commercial kitchen. Three beautifully landscaped gardens offer<br />
ideal spots for under-the-stars photo sessions. Newlywed Leslye O’Neal<br />
called the Community House the perfect setting for a dream-come-true<br />
wedding. “It was my vision for an elegant yet fun reception,” said<br />
Leslye, who found its classic hardwood floors and vaulted ceiling an<br />
ideal backdrop for showcasing her décor. “I’ll never forget walking up a<br />
snowy path with my new husband and seeing the candlelight through<br />
the beautiful French doors. It felt as if we were entering a beautiful<br />
home, not some banquet hall or hotel ballroom,” recalled Leslye.<br />
“Naturally you remember your wedding day for the rest of your life, but<br />
I’ll also remember the entire ambiance of my reception. It was perfect.”<br />
Leslye made note of the Community House during a friend’s 1991<br />
(continued on next page)<br />
Spring 2009 / 13<br />
PHOTO: James Spada
Something Old, Something New (continued from previous page)<br />
wedding. “I didn’t want to go the hotel ballroom route or contend with having my décor choices<br />
influenced by ugly carpeting or wallpaper,” she explained. “The Community House offered both the<br />
blank canvas and the vintage feel I was after.” Leslye expressed appreciation for “a very responsive” staff,<br />
particularly Event Coordinator Wendy Horwitch, who assisted in so many ways including providing the<br />
O’Neals with vendor brochures. “Those with experience at Community House affairs earned my top<br />
consideration as they had a leg up on its facilities, layout, accessibility, and other offerings.”<br />
Just a half block south is The Art Center (1957 Sheridan Road, 847-432-1888,<br />
www.theartcenterhp.org). With its framed original artwork, it achieves a truly one-of-a-kind motif. Beyond<br />
that, a blank palette invites one’s own inspired designs into the space(s) selected. After a $1.8 million<br />
renovation in 2003, the totally refurbished Center offers rental of the entire main floor (an estimated<br />
5,000 square feet of entertaining space) or any combination of its four rooms: An entry lobby—a perfect<br />
pre-dinner mingling or cocktail reception area; the lecture gallery—otherwise known as the fireplace<br />
room (though romantic, the fireplace is non-working due to the associated risk to artwork); the main<br />
gallery; and behind it, another smaller gallery. Maximum capacity is 220 with a buffet service (which<br />
anticipates guests transitioning from room to room.) Sit-down-service affairs accommodate fewer. The Art<br />
Center provides tables and chairs and with its gleaming wooden floors, ample space for dancing. Linens<br />
and other décor, including flowers, are the bridal couple’s responsibility.<br />
“We host about three weddings a year right now,” said Executive and School Director Gabrielle<br />
Rousso, adding that corporate and community groups also hold events at the facility. Unlike some venues,<br />
renters are not limited to specified caterers. “We have a small prep kitchen and with our lower level<br />
classrooms, convenient and spacious private areas for the wedding party to dress.” With its museum-like<br />
lighting, open spaces and artwork, The Art Center offers a uniquely dramatic wedding venue.<br />
Special Touches for a Most Special Day<br />
“Leslye was a particularly knowledgeable bride and knew exactly what she wanted,” confirmed Rosann<br />
Santi, who along with sister and partner Renee Ruedig owns Floral Gardens (2109 Green Bay Road,<br />
HP, 847-432-3420, www.floralgardensofhighlandpark.com). Formerly Bahr’s Floral, its 80 year history<br />
makes the shop a Highland Park fixture that, under current owners, “strives for a personal touch with<br />
Highland Park Community House with centerpieces by Floral Gardens, table<br />
settings by Froggy’s Catering and Carousel Linens<br />
14<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
PHOTOS: James Spada<br />
artistic flair and exceptional service.” That, plus<br />
years doing centerpieces for Community House<br />
events, clinched the deal for the O’Neals.<br />
Rosann explained that while brides continue to<br />
stick with long standing traditions on their floral<br />
arrangements, today’s vast options can be<br />
overwhelming. Votive candles surrounding vases<br />
in staggered heights to vases with floating candles<br />
are popular, as are a myriad of other arrangements.<br />
And then of course, there’s an infinite selection of<br />
flowers in any size or color imaginable. While<br />
seasonal availability varies, anything, said Rosann,<br />
is possible, contingent on budget.<br />
“With Leslye, we were able to work up her<br />
order over the phone and then she and her<br />
fiancé simply came in to approve the sample.”<br />
But that, explained Rosann, is the exception not<br />
the rule for most brides. “Brides typically have a<br />
color scheme in mind,” said Rosann. “Otherwise<br />
we brainstorm – honing in on the colors and<br />
flowers they like. We encourage them to scan<br />
and pull magazine pictures of what they do and<br />
don’t like, which helps us learn their personality<br />
and what appeals to them.<br />
The O’Neals’ wedding cake by<br />
Froggy’s Catering
To complement her color scheme of black, red<br />
and gold, Leslye selected Black Magic roses. Each<br />
table’s centerpiece held a dozen of the flowers in<br />
a low square vase wrapped in tea leaves and<br />
surrounded by a scattering of votive candles. Her<br />
bouquet of 18 Black Magic roses, hand-tied with<br />
ivory satin, was adorned by a special photo charm<br />
of her grandmother, “to make her part of my<br />
wedding because she was too ill to attend.” The<br />
groom’s boutonniere, also a Black Magic rose. Her<br />
five bridesmaids carried ivory roses and the<br />
groomsmen sported ivory rose boutonnieres.<br />
Eat, Drink and Be Married<br />
Unencumbered by a “preferred vendors”<br />
policy, Leslye incorporated tried-and-true<br />
favorites and expert recommendations into<br />
her wedding plan. Among these, Froggy’s<br />
French Café (306 Green Bay, Highwood,<br />
www.frenchrestaurantchicagocatering.com). In<br />
addition to the restaurant (847-433-7080), that<br />
houses Froggy’s Catering (847-433-1560)<br />
and Gourmet Frog Bakery (847-433-7038.)<br />
This pride of Highwood and four-time recipient<br />
of Zagat’s Award of Distinctive Excellence,<br />
earned the O’Neals’ nod for caterer. A favorite<br />
special dinner spot of the couple during their<br />
courtship, then-fiancé Jay reserved a table for<br />
their celebratory engagement dinner. Learning of<br />
Froggy’s catering, the couple knew they’d found<br />
their wedding caterer. “The food is exceptional,<br />
and we love their detailed French service and<br />
the consistently high quality of product,” said<br />
Leslye. “Our goal was to serve a restaurant<br />
quality meal rather than the mass prepared food<br />
you so often encounter at large catered<br />
gatherings.” And compared to several<br />
“downtown” caterers she’d considered, Leslye<br />
found Froggy’s the most reasonably priced.<br />
Under the watchful eyes of executive chef<br />
Thierry Lefeuvre and co-owner/head of catering<br />
Thierry Mace, the O’Neals’ and their guests<br />
enjoyed a gourmet meal with matching fine dining<br />
service. Following extraordinary hors d’oeuvres, a<br />
delectable duo of beef tenderloin and braised breast<br />
of chicken entrée was served—each embellished<br />
with a wine and mushroom sauce and plated with<br />
what Leslye described as “cheesey rich potatoes”<br />
(continued on next page)<br />
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Spring 2009 / 15
Something Old, Something New (continued from previous page)<br />
and mousseline of seasonal vegetables. And then of<br />
course, the wedding cake: a five-tier white-and-dark<br />
chocolate mousse cake surrounded by rose petals<br />
and served with raspberry sauce and fresh berries—<br />
sprinkled with confetti-like chocolate shavings and a<br />
sprig of mint. Celebrating their one-year anniversary<br />
in January, the O’Neals enjoyed a freshly made-to-<br />
Cake at The Bent Fork<br />
order cake, just like their wedding cake only smaller, compliments of Froggy’s. “It’s our tradition to create a<br />
first anniversary cake for our newlyweds,” said Mace, who explained that with the exception of the top tier,<br />
the actual day-of-the-event wedding cake is a fake. “People are always amazed by how we serve hundreds of<br />
perfect wedding cake slices so quickly,” explained Mace. “Rather than leave a cake on display for so long—<br />
which is a health concern—we pre-slice and refrigerate the real cake, displaying a replica we create with only<br />
an edible top tier. Then, on the couple’s one year anniversary, we create for them a special cake.”<br />
Mace also coordinated the O’Neals’ choices of ivory linens and black cane opera chairs with ivory<br />
cushions—all through Carousel Linens (454 Sheridan Road, Highwood, 847-432-8182,<br />
www.carousellinen.com). “Our catering fee includes our restaurant china, glassware (both for the meal<br />
and bar) and silverware—even if the venue offers it,” said Mace, adding that event hosts select their<br />
preferences. For Leslye, who didn’t want anything distracting, a simple ivory was ideal. “It was perfection<br />
and Thierry and the Froggy’s staff were an absolute pleasure to work with,” said Leslye, which no doubt<br />
is the general consensus for this popular restaurant that caters three to four weddings a month.<br />
The couple also appreciated the economy of using Binny’s Beverage Depot (153 Skokie Valley Road,<br />
847-831-5400, www.binnys.com) for their champagne, wine and other spirits. “General Manager David<br />
O’Sullivan and Wine Manager Tony Batio helped us determine selections and quantities,” said Leslye who<br />
adds: “Everyone was so helpful and being able to buy our alcoholic beverages through Binny’s was a great<br />
cost savings for us, enabling us to upgrade what we served and still stay well under the average budget.”<br />
“Ratios are the key,” explained Binny’s O’Sullivan, who considers gender, numbers of single guests<br />
versus couples, duration of party, and less obvious points, like whether the venue is in close proximity to<br />
most guests’ homes and their mode of transportation—taxi, limo or a self-driven vehicle. “Helping you<br />
pair the right wines with your food selections and establishing quantity are our specialties,” boasted<br />
O’Sullivan. “But we also deliver, offer convenient hours seven days a week, and happily accept any<br />
returns of unopened bottles. We’ll do whatever it takes to make your wedding reception a success.”<br />
Dancing to a live band and a luscious sweet table are often regarded as the perfect cap to these<br />
magical celebrations. With an extensive line of homemade goodies, � The Bent Fork<br />
Photographer Jennifer Mordini captures the O’Neals celebrating their first anniversary at Froggy’s Restaurant.<br />
16<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
PHOTO: Jennifer Mordini Photographer, Inc.; www.jennifermordini.com
(333 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood, 847-926-4438, www.thebentfork.com)<br />
can indulge the “sweet tooth” of even the most discriminating guest. From<br />
cookies, brownies, English toffee, and biscottis, to delectable pies and<br />
cakes—it’s a veritable flavor fantasy. Owner Liz Bearwald finds today’s brides<br />
taking the traditional wedding cake to new heights. One new concept<br />
involves displaying individual cupcakes on custom made towers. While for<br />
some the savoring of decadent desserts is itself a form of entertainment,<br />
traditional entertainment typically includes a band or DJ playing favorite hits<br />
from old standards to classic rock. Once the music starts, dancing is sure to<br />
follow. Yet many couples approach their first dance together as husband and<br />
wife with trepidation, knowing all eyes will be on them. Allaying those fears<br />
with advance preparation is a snap with North Shore School of Dance<br />
(505 Laurel Avenue, #102, 847-432-2060, www.northshoredance.com).<br />
The school has several instructors available for private lessons as well as<br />
ballroom dance classes for adults to help those with “two left feet” learn to<br />
move with grace and poise.<br />
Memories of Your Memorable Affair<br />
No wedding arrangements are complete without a photographer to<br />
forever capture the memories of this momentous occasion. Film is a<br />
nearly obsolete medium taken over by the advances of this digital age that<br />
now enables storage of thousands of photos on one tiny memory card.<br />
With Jennifer Mordini Photography (1292 Old Skokie Road,<br />
847-579-9663, www.jennifermordini.com) you’re sure to prize these<br />
special keepsake memories. Jennifer, who strives to capture the natural<br />
side of weddings, considers reality superior to anything she might try to<br />
create. “I feed off the energy between the couple,” she admitted. “Candid<br />
shots reveal the genuine excitement and love of the couple and their<br />
guests. The best part is when they see their photographs, because these<br />
unexpected shots are often the most remarkable.” Jennifer’s portfolio<br />
documents her exceptional talent, a talent she has shared with so many<br />
Chicago area couples who relish and relive some of their happiest<br />
moments through these extraordinary visual memories.<br />
The aforementioned list of venues and service providers are a jumpstart<br />
for anyone gearing up for a wedding or other special event. But bear in<br />
mind, this is just a snapshot into the big picture of what makes our<br />
exceptional business community second to none for its wealth of products<br />
and services. Other great sources for turning a dream wedding into reality<br />
can be found through the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce website<br />
(www.champerhp.com) and the Highland Park Community Guide.<br />
For more information on these, contact the Chamber of<br />
Commerce at 847-432-0284 or frontdesk@ehighlandpark.com.<br />
Jane Giles is associate editor of six00threefive Magazine and the<br />
principal of Leeds Communications, a PR & media relations<br />
consultancy for small to mid-size businesses that specializes in the<br />
development and placement of local and national news stories.<br />
Kelly Huegel is a member of the Chamber’s publication group and a<br />
freelance graphic designer specializing in assisting small<br />
businesses with their marketing and advertising campaigns.<br />
Spring 2009 / 17
David Ariano’s<br />
With a passion for innovative design and a foundation in custom<br />
woodworking, cabinetmakers John and Doug Durbin founded nuHaus in<br />
Highland Park in 1989. nuHaus designs, manufactures and installs fine<br />
architectural millwork and cabinetry, specializing in kitchen architecture.<br />
The diverse and creative work of the nuHaus design staff consistently<br />
appears on the pages of shelter magazines across the country. Kathleen<br />
Nelson, designer at nuHaus and steering committee member of the Highland<br />
Park Chamber Women’s Networking Group says, “Design is a collaborative<br />
process—we believe kitchens are driven as much by personality as<br />
architecture, so we try to connect with the client, learn how they really live<br />
and pay close attention to what they say. And since it’s still the room where<br />
everyone gathers, our skill in bringing texture to a kitchen through the use<br />
18<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
of a mix of materials creates kitchens that are warm and comfortable.”<br />
“We have recently been honored by Sub Zero-Wolf as the nation’s best<br />
showroom for our innovative designs. We invite you to visit our Highland<br />
Park showroom to experience our work firsthand.”<br />
In need of more pantry storage? Kathleen suggests the solution may be<br />
closer than you think. Take advantage of leftover space and re-use some of<br />
your existing space differently to gain pantries.<br />
• This can include closets, back hallways, blank walls in mudrooms and<br />
laundry rooms – even a telephone niche can be re-configured to<br />
accommodate floor to ceiling shallow shelves and be covered with a tall<br />
mesh or opaque glass door.<br />
• A closet can be re-organized to accommodate serving trays, cubbies for<br />
school papers, a recycling bin—even a fire extinguisher, in addition to<br />
small appliance and food storage.<br />
• Space for corkboards can be found on the insides of doors or cabinets,<br />
and are ideal for school calendars, party invitations or to post notes.<br />
• In the mudroom a framed blackboard with a ledge for chalk on a blank<br />
wall is a convenient place for family messages and reminders; and peg<br />
hooks on the wall for aprons or dog leashes provide easy access.<br />
• If you are renovating your kitchen, consider a corner walk-in pantry<br />
rather than a corner cabinet. This can conceal quite a bit of storage and<br />
keep your counters clutter free.<br />
The secret to creating functional storage is planning what you want to<br />
store and how much space those items require. 847-831-1330,<br />
1665 Old Skokie Road, HP, www.nuhaus.com
With spring comes spring-cleaning. What better way to start the season<br />
than by cleaning the flooring and upholstered surfaces in your home. Larry<br />
Rosenthal � , owner of Unique Upholstery, Carpet & Rug<br />
Cleaning, Inc., is an energetic person with over 20 years experience and<br />
several accreditations to his name. Larry says, “Accidents do happen, and<br />
Unique can help with all the little ones such as pet clean-up problems,<br />
spills, or any other of life’s little accidents. We’re the ones to call for those<br />
hard to remove spills and spots on your upholstery, carpeting and Oriental<br />
rugs. There is no job too small for us to schedule an appointment.”<br />
Aside from the obvious, Unique provides the following services to both<br />
residential and commercial customers all over Chicagoland: upholstery and<br />
leather cleaning; fabric protection; Oriental rugs cleaned on site; floor, tile, and<br />
grout cleaning; removal of pet urine stains; emergency water damage service;<br />
carpet repairs and re-stretching; allergy and “green” cleaning.<br />
Larry was kind enough to provide some advice about cleaning up spills.<br />
Today’s carpets resist stains better than ever before. But prompt clean up of<br />
spots, spills and accidents is still a must. The longer you wait, the harder they<br />
are to remove. Plus, with time some spills can cause permanent staining.<br />
1 Use clean white absorbent materials such as towels, napkins or tissues.<br />
Always blot up spills, don’t rub or brush and work from the outer edge<br />
to the center of the spot.<br />
2 Apply (without over wetting) clean warm (not hot) water to stained<br />
area. Blot up firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. Repeat<br />
until there’s no stain or no further transfer of the stain.<br />
3 If the stain remains on the carpet, apply (without over wetting) a solution<br />
of warm water and mild non-bleach liquid laundry detergent (1 teaspoon<br />
to 1 quart of water). Clear mild dishwashing liquid, without additives<br />
like hand softeners or scents, is also okay. Let stand for about 5 minutes.<br />
4 Important Step: Blot up the detergent. Then apply clear warm water<br />
(without over wetting). Blot up water. Repeat until all detergent is<br />
removed. Detergent residue accelerates resoiling.<br />
5 Absorb remaining moisture with layers of white paper towels weighted<br />
down overnight with a non-staining glass or ceramic object.<br />
6 When completely dry, vacuum or brush the pile to restore texture. After<br />
drying, if the stain reappears, it may be because some of the stain<br />
remained deep in the pile and wicked up to the surface. If so, repeat<br />
steps 3 to 6. If the stain remains, give Unique a call.<br />
Unique’s 12-point promise ensures a consistently satisfied customer.<br />
I can personally attest to the quality of their work; as they’ve cleaned<br />
several area rugs in my own home. Just for fun, make sure you ask<br />
Larry for a quick limerick about his services. 847-459-1600,<br />
www.uniquecarpetcleaning.com<br />
Finally, a few words on how to make your bathroom safe….<br />
Many household accidents happen in the bathroom; water and slippery<br />
surfaces can cause problems when people aren’t careful. But bathroom<br />
accidents are easy to prevent by following a few simple steps:<br />
• Make sure your bathtub or whirlpool has a slip-resistant bottom; most<br />
new tubs have a textured slip-resistant bottom that helps provide<br />
stability.<br />
• Install grab bars around the room, such as next to the bathtub or near<br />
the toilet. You might even use one as a towel bar. (A towel rack won’t<br />
support your weight if you fall.)<br />
• Install clothes hooks above eye level, so if you slip and fall, nothing can<br />
poke you in the eye.<br />
• Use a night-light to prevent trips and falls at night.<br />
• Don’t build more than one step up to the bathtub or whirlpool - in fact,<br />
having no step is preferable.<br />
• Choose a vanity and vanity top with rounded edges.<br />
• Make sure doors open out. If someone falls, lands against the door and<br />
can’t move, they will be trapped.<br />
• Never leave small children alone in the bathtub; not even for a split<br />
second, and especially not when you answer the phone.<br />
• Use a faucet that has a Hot-Limit Safety Stop feature, which allows<br />
you to prevent water that’s too hot from coming out of the faucet.<br />
This is an especially useful feature if you have small children. You<br />
might also consider turning down the water temperature for the<br />
whole house supply.<br />
• Consider installing an anti-scald pressure balanced valve in your shower;<br />
that way, if there’s a sudden drop in water pressure while you’re<br />
showering, you won’t suddenly be pelted with hot water.<br />
• Use small ceramic tiles or a less slippery floor material.<br />
• Have a pull-out step so kids can reach the sink.<br />
• Avoid scatter rugs that slide around.<br />
• Include seating wherever you can, specifically in the shower.<br />
• Throw lots of light around, including lighted switches and a night light.<br />
For more safety tips for your<br />
bathroom or ideas on how to make<br />
your bathroom more handicapped<br />
accessible, please give me a call.<br />
Ravinia Plumbing & Heating<br />
Co., 1580 Old Skokie Road, HP,<br />
847-432-5561,<br />
www.RaviniaPlumbing.com<br />
Calling all home improvement<br />
professionals, from building<br />
tradesmen to designers, with<br />
stories to share: Email<br />
david@raviniaplumbing.com or<br />
call 847-432-5561.<br />
Spring 2009 / 19<br />
PHOTO: Phil Goldman
20<br />
Jane Giles<br />
As the saying goes, “In like a lion, out like a lamb,” and as Spring struggles<br />
to get hold, most of us are more than ready for the new season and its<br />
promise of warm weather to arrive. With this transition of seasons comes<br />
the age old tradition of spring cleaning. So as you get down to the business<br />
of sprucing and freshening up your home and yourself, we’ve pulled<br />
together some terrific resources to help you get the job done right.<br />
Nature’s Home � specializes in an all-green product line that<br />
ranges from earth-safe cleaning solutions to natural body products and<br />
clothing, organic edibles and even eco-friendly gifts. This March, the<br />
Skokie-based store, located in the Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Centre,<br />
celebrated its one year anniversary. It’s been such a success that CEO James<br />
Heard has three more slated to open soon, including a second Chicago<br />
location in the Oak Brook Mall, one in Scottsdale, AZ and the third in<br />
Poughkeepsie, NY.<br />
After 20 years owning and operating Ravinia Maid and its parent company,<br />
Skokie Maid, two cleaning services popular throughout Highland Park, Jim<br />
sought organic alternatives to traditional household cleaning solutions out of<br />
concern about their high toxicity levels and any corollary role in the rise of<br />
respiratory ailments and allergies. That, coupled with a desire to increase<br />
consumer awareness and reliance on healthy, environmentally-safe products,<br />
inspired the launch of Nature’s Home. “We offer all natural, organic<br />
alternatives in a one-stop-shop environment with the objective of making green<br />
living easy. We’re here to answer consumer’s questions, to share product<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
information and to provide guidance in product selections,” explains Jim.<br />
If this long, cold winter of indoor kids and pets has left your walls<br />
stained and smudged, Nature’s Home carries a line of paint made from an<br />
old milk paint formula that will bring your walls back from dreary to cheery.<br />
Safe Paint contains no volatile organic compounds (organic chemical<br />
compounds that under normal conditions have enough vapor pressure to<br />
vaporize and enter the atmosphere,) is completely biodegradable, and comes<br />
in a full palette of rich, durable, fade resistant colors. If a good scrub down is<br />
all they need, Mrs. Meyers All Purpose Cleaner will do the trick and is<br />
equally good for cleaning any non-porous surface such as finished wood and<br />
tile floors, countertops, porcelain, and bathroom fixtures. And with luscious<br />
natural scents like Basil, Green Tea and Ginger the house will smell as fresh<br />
as it looks. The store also carries the Caldrea and Naturally Clean brands.<br />
Dish soap, counter cleaner, laundry detergent, it’s all there, as is a great<br />
selection of body washes, lotions, shampoos and conditioners for mom, baby<br />
and the whole gang – including Fido – who is likely most in need of a good<br />
washing. 847-674-2500, 4999 Old Orchard Center, F6, Skokie,<br />
60077, www.yournatureshome.com<br />
Speaking of washing, Grants Appliance brings its 80-plus year tradition of<br />
product knowledge and low prices on brand name washers, dryers,<br />
dishwashers, TVs, audio systems, and other home appliances to Studio 41 in<br />
Highland Park. The new store, one of 11 now in the Chicago area, opened in<br />
November 2007. Viking, Maytag, Jenn Air, Gaggeanu, Samsung, and Sony are<br />
just a few of the brands they stock. Only new product, direct-from-themanufacturer<br />
with factory-seals and warranties make up the store’s inventory<br />
that, according to Manager Torrie Hunter, are sold at rock-bottom prices. “Our<br />
everyday prices are frequently below competitor sale prices, and we always<br />
provide free delivery.” Don’t worry about having to lug out that tired old<br />
washing machine. Grants will remove locally and recycles all old appliances.<br />
“We combine great pricing with great customer services,” says Torrie,<br />
adding that all staff members are trained to be product specialists on every<br />
item in the store. So if trudging through big box stores in search of assistance<br />
each time you move to a different department is a pet peeve, Torrie assures<br />
you’ll get all the answers you need from one knowledgable associate on every<br />
product in the store. Grants also<br />
offers professional installation<br />
and low-cost, custom-extended<br />
warranties. Keep this in mind,<br />
should your clothes become so<br />
overwhelmed from Fido’s<br />
shedding coat that your washing<br />
machine clogs to its final spin.<br />
Grants Appliance � of Highland Park, 3160 Skokie Valley<br />
Road, HP (at Studio 41), 224-765-5000,<br />
www.grantsappliance.com, Torrie Hunter, Manager<br />
For those with allergies to dust, mold, pets and other allergens, or on that<br />
never-ending quest to make home the healthiest, most sanitary<br />
environment possible, Douglas Vacuum & Allergy Relief Center in<br />
Highland Park comes to the rescue! What began in 1963 as a Highland<br />
Park vacuum shop grew into five TV and appliance stores. With his finger
on the pulse of retail trends, Douglas Kritz sold the stores to the nowdefunct<br />
Tweeter and shifted his focus from home appliance and<br />
entertainment systems to home health systems. According to vice president<br />
and HP resident Danny Kaiserman, who along with wife Candice co-own<br />
the store, DV&ARC � stocks every essential for complete home allergyproofing.<br />
“We have hospital grade filtration systems, HEPA vacuums,<br />
organic cleaning products and bedding.” As an authorized, warranteed sales<br />
center for about 20 different vacuum lines, it’s a great source for hard-tofind<br />
accessories and parts like belts and bags. It also staffs three service<br />
mechanics – in case Fido’s fur wreaks havoc again.<br />
DV&ARC’s air purification systems address musty basements, mold,<br />
asthma and allergies as well as pet and chemical odors remaining in newly<br />
built and remodeled homes. “Our equipment is the same hospitals, med<br />
schools and government agencies use.” Those systems, says Danny, often<br />
use ions – which don’t work, or ozones, known carcinogens. “Not all<br />
purification systems are created equal. People think a HEPA filter means it<br />
filters at HEPA efficiency.” Most allergens are smaller than what nonmedical<br />
grade purifiers can filter out. But DV&ARC has units that filter<br />
down to a 99.5% efficiency at 0.003 microns and some that even sterilize<br />
viruses. And Douglas runs every air purifier for 48 hours to burn out<br />
shipping dust, dirt or other residuals in the motor before the customer takes<br />
it home. A laser particle counter measures the before and after count to<br />
ensure the system meets hospital grade standards before leaving the store.<br />
Another way to protect your family’s health is reducing your home’s dust<br />
mite population. No matter how hygienic you think your home, dust mites<br />
are lurking in your bedding where these icky little creatures hide to feast on<br />
dead skin cells. An Ohio State University study reports dust mites can<br />
account for 10% of a two-year-old pillow’s weight. Imagine a 10-year-old<br />
mattress! So, when you wake-up with a stuffy nose and itchy eyes, this is the<br />
likely culprit. Douglas’ encasement products are made from super high<br />
quality, 100% certified organic cotton option. Small pores and exceptional<br />
stitching prevent these microscopic guys from squeezing through. Before<br />
encasing your bedding, Douglas staff can come to the home to sanitize with<br />
germicidal UV light equipment. The service runs $89.50 for king or queen<br />
(continued on next page)<br />
Spring 2009 / 21
New to You (continued from previous page)<br />
size mattresses, $69.50 for twin/full-size and competitor coupons are<br />
accepted. Douglas Vacuum & Allergy Relief Center, 332 Skokie<br />
Valley Road, HP, 847-831-0011, Danny Kaiserman, VP<br />
Following a successful career in retail and her family’s move some three and<br />
a half years ago from Santa Monica, California to Highland Park, Laurie<br />
Williams turned dreams of marrying her retail experience with the socially<br />
responsible lifestyle she practiced in Santa Monica into a business model.<br />
With the Second Street storefront (across the way from Michael’s Chicago-<br />
Style Red Hots) available, Laurie opened The Soap Box Shop �<br />
shortly before 2008’s holiday season. Its all-organic focus includes an array of<br />
natural body care and “re-lifed” personal accessories that are largely<br />
handmade or locally-grown. “In Santa Monica, green is a way of life,”<br />
explains Laurie. “You shop at the farmer’s market, reuse your cloth shopping<br />
bag, and are generally conscientious about eco-friendly living.” Her further<br />
efforts of community support are achieved through relationships with nonprofit<br />
organizations, including work training and other cause-related<br />
programs for the disabled, homeless and economically disadvantaged.<br />
True to her mission, Laurie thoughtfully selects fair trade and socially<br />
responsible vendors. Among these is The Enterprising Kitchen (TEK), a<br />
Chicago-based non-profit providing workforce development and support<br />
services to women. The Soap Box carries natural soaps and spa products<br />
under the TEK Choices brand name. Body oils, glycerin soaps, shower<br />
and bath gels and bath tea – the latest concept in body care that<br />
combines Dead Sea salts with natural botanicals and essential oils in an<br />
oversized teabag that “brews up a relaxing, delicately-scented soak in<br />
the tub.” Soy candles from Bright Endeavors, another Chicago-based<br />
22<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
non-profit that provides homeless and disadvantaged inner city women<br />
with job skills training, are also available, as is a hot new line of unisex<br />
skin care products from the contemporary New York apothecary Matlin<br />
& Goetz. All gifts are wrapped for free in recycled Kraft paper, but on<br />
request will, for an extra charge (contingent on package size), be<br />
wrapped in Grow Paper, seeded gift wrapping paper that is meant to be<br />
planted after unwrapping the gift—and voila! From gift wrapping paper<br />
sprouts a batch of wildflowers. The same concept is available in gift<br />
cards – truly the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to its selection of<br />
lovely products, The Soap Box Shop also boasts a hand-painted mural<br />
created by Highland Park High School special education students.<br />
Coordinated as a field trip by Laurie and the school’s art and special ed<br />
department, the project depicts what community means to these<br />
student-artists. It is, says Laurie, a beautiful and loving addition to her<br />
store and one that best illustrates the full concept of her mission.<br />
The Soap Box Shop, 1853 Second Street, HP, 847-681-0267,<br />
www.thesoapboxshop.com, Laurie Williams, Owner<br />
Are you a new Highland Park retail or wholesale store<br />
operator or a new or never-featured Chamber member with a<br />
retail story to share with the community? Call or email Jane<br />
Giles. Jane is associate editor of six00threefive Magazine and<br />
the principal of Leeds Communications, a PR and media<br />
relations consultancy for small- to mid-size businesses,<br />
specializing in the development and placement of local and<br />
national news stories. Email 60035@ehighlandpark.com,<br />
SUBJECT: “New to You,” or call 847-607-8216.
Painting the Streets Electric<br />
Larry King, City Forester, City of Highland Park<br />
Spring! The warmth in the air and the smell of the earth are intoxicating! The explosion of our trees is our<br />
treat following winter. Magnolias are the first to burst out, boldly promising hope on wet dreary days,<br />
followed by serviceberries and flowering pears, in clouds of white. And, at last, crabapples!<br />
Tour Highland Park in May. Mornings are ideal for burgeoning blossoms. Drive south down Ridge<br />
Road from Deerfield Road. At Lake Cook Road, turn east until you reach Sheridan Road. Turning north<br />
there, the pink of Profusions and the snowy-white Red Jewels splash across a landscape of Orange Crush,<br />
Sentinel and Royal Raindrops. Continue on to Central Avenue and find a seat by the window for brunch.<br />
There are approximately 2,500 crabapples of 74 different varieties standing along the rights-of-way —<br />
those strips of land adjacent to the edge of most public streets that are owned by the City. Our trees appear<br />
in many shapes, sizes and flower and fruit colors. There are common varieties that can be purchased at<br />
most local garden centers and obscure varieties that are very rarely offered, even to the trade.<br />
You may have heard that crabapples are messy trees or that the fruit tumbles everywhere and the<br />
leaves are lost mid-summer. The older variety of crabapples may develop that way, but it’s not at all true of<br />
the newer types. Breeders have developed trees that hold onto their fruit into the winter, providing food for<br />
migratory birds. Susceptibility to leaf diseases has also been bred out of the new varieties.<br />
To pick the right crabapple, begin by deciding upon the form of tree appropriate for your site.<br />
Crabapples vary greatly in their size and shape. You may need a narrow, upright form to fit into a tight<br />
location; consider planting a Red Barron crabapple.<br />
Adirondack crabs are also upright, but tend to be<br />
more rounded and wider, and Sentinels are wider<br />
still. Don Wymans are large and spreading, while<br />
Coralburst crabs look like lollipops. Louisa and<br />
Molten Lava crabs often weep to the ground.<br />
Flowers should be the next consideration.<br />
Would you like a white-flowering Snow Drift or a<br />
purplish Selkirk? Perhaps a red Prairiefire or pink<br />
Centurion might be more your cup of tea. Some<br />
crabapples have flowers with multiple rows of<br />
Prairiefire<br />
petals that appear like little roses; others have<br />
wonderful fragrances. I can smell a blooming Sugar<br />
Molten Lava<br />
Tyme crab the moment I step onto a property.<br />
People forget to consider fruit color. Wonderful<br />
fall displays of crimson and yellow can be created<br />
with groupings of Red Jewels and Harvest Golds.<br />
The tiny yellow “berries” of Golden Raindrops<br />
dress up that bare tree on a wet November day.<br />
For two decades, th Highland Park collection<br />
has expanded. Three new varieties, including<br />
May’s Delight to be introduced by Chicagoland<br />
Grows ® (www.chicagolandgrows.org), were added<br />
in 2008. This city is known in the trade for our<br />
crabapples. Actually, nurseries donate trees for<br />
inclusion in our program. Perhaps, one day,<br />
Highland Park will be designated “Crabapple City.”<br />
It’s not beyond consideration.<br />
For further information, contact Larry King,<br />
City Forester in Public Works, 1150 Half<br />
Day Road, HP, 847-432-0807, or visit<br />
www.cityhpil.com/pw/forestry.html<br />
Background: Malus floribunda<br />
Prairiefire<br />
Profusion<br />
Zumi
Tapped In!<br />
By Holly Samonte-Ampon<br />
Every day more than 30,000 individuals in Highland Park tap into the city’s<br />
water system to drink, cook, bathe and clean household items. In our<br />
routine, we take for granted the source and safety of our water.<br />
“We get safe, drinkable water through the city’s Water Treatment Plant,”<br />
says Don Jensen, Superintendent of the plant. Located at the east end of<br />
Park Avenue on Lake Michigan, the facility provides tap water to 60,000<br />
people in Highland Park, Deerfield, Lincolnshire, Bannockburn, Riverwoods,<br />
Glenbrook Sanitary District and the Town of Fort Sheridan. During a crisis,<br />
such as a water shortage, the plant also has the capability to supply water to<br />
Northbrook, Highwood, Lake Forest and Glencoe. Conversely, we receive<br />
water from Lake Forest and Northbrook during an emergency here.<br />
An average of 11 million gallons per day of treated water is consumed<br />
in these communities. According to Don, who has been the manager of the<br />
plant for over 20 years, “Our facility is able to deliver sufficient water to<br />
meet this demand. We have six pumps, each capable of producing eight<br />
million gallons of water per day.” He points out that water treatment<br />
capacity is another matter: “From time to time, we experience water<br />
demands that exceed our capacity to purify it. Most recently, this occurred<br />
during the drought in 2005 when a one-week lawn sprinkling restriction<br />
was enforced. Since residents use less water during the winter, we only<br />
need to operate one water pump. During summer, when water<br />
consumption is greater, we typically use three pumps.”<br />
How Water Is Cleaned Our water comes from Lake<br />
Michigan, cited by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) as one<br />
of the best quality supplies of fresh drinking water in the state. Don explains<br />
that before water comes out of our faucets, it undergoes a cleaning treatment<br />
process. This process is necessary since all sources of drinking water pick up a<br />
variety of pollutants as they travel through the ground or surface.<br />
One contaminant of particular concern is lead. “There is a potential for<br />
water to dissolve (leach) lead from some older plumbing materials after<br />
water sits in these pipes for a long period of time,” says Don. “While the<br />
degree of harm depends on lead exposure, even very low levels of exposure<br />
are of concern as it can cause permanent brain damage and decreased<br />
intelligence in infants and children.”<br />
Lead enters drinking water supplies from the corrosion of pipes, brass inside<br />
the faucet or service connections that connect houses to municipal water lines.<br />
Houses built before World War II used lead pipes for interior plumbing and<br />
Highland Park’s Water Treatment Plant, on Park Avenue, Eastern exposure<br />
service connections and are most likely<br />
to have lead in their water.<br />
Since 1992, Highland Park has<br />
added corrosion control to the water<br />
treatment. To ensure that homes do<br />
not have lead in their water, the staff<br />
from the water treatment plant<br />
conducted a two-year long survey,<br />
collecting water samples from more<br />
than 60 homes twice a year and tested<br />
it for lead. Laboratory analysis showed<br />
that most households in our area have<br />
very low levels of lead exposure. Based<br />
on these results, the state now requires<br />
us to monitor these at-risk homes for<br />
lead only every three years.<br />
The water treatment plant staff implements a number of treatment<br />
procedures to remove the different contaminants. “We add chloramine, a<br />
more stable form of chlorine that persists throughout the water distribution<br />
system to destroy bacteria and other germs in the water.” Chloramine<br />
protects residents from water-borne diseases like cholera and dysentery. Sand<br />
layers which consist of coarse crushed sand, medium silica sand and fine<br />
garnet sand are used to purify water. Through these layers, foreign particles<br />
are confined. Chemical treatment known as coagulation is also used to<br />
remove particles that are in suspension or that are dissolved in the water.<br />
The Control Center The water treatment plant employs<br />
12 personnel. “The staff is a diverse group,” according to Don. “Individuals<br />
who work in the plant come from varied backgrounds. The different<br />
disciplines like chemistry, electronics, mechanics and control systems come<br />
into play in the treatment process.”<br />
“We’re open 24 hours a day, with three shifts. Every four hours, the staff<br />
performs laboratory work and cross checks all the instruments. We check<br />
the quality of the water in the different stages of treatment to make sure that<br />
the treatment process is proceeding properly. We monitor the clarity of the<br />
water and level of pressure in the water distribution system. And, we make<br />
sure that there is no contamination or sudden drop in disinfectants in the<br />
system.” These tests allow the plant’s personnel to adjust the treatment to<br />
varying conditions and make sure that the water is safe to drink.<br />
An innovative computerized control system monitors the flow and pressure<br />
of the water supply throughout the six towns we serve. There are surveillance<br />
instruments that check water quality as it enters the plant. If there are any<br />
problems in water quality, the computerized system relays this to the control<br />
center. There are numerous alarm points for each step in the treatment process,<br />
PHOTOS: Highland Park Public Works
and plant personnel<br />
are aware of any<br />
breakdown as soon<br />
as it occurs. In the<br />
event there is a<br />
problem, the<br />
operator, regardless<br />
of where he is or<br />
what he is doing, is<br />
made aware of the situation by means of a synthetic voice that announces<br />
alarms through the public system.<br />
A common problem in the water plant is power failure, which can<br />
happen during a heavy rain or ice storm. Two power generators are on<br />
standby to ensure there is continued water supply to all consumers.<br />
Zebra mussels are also a concern in the water plant. The presence of<br />
Zebra mussels in Lake Michigan has increased the number of algae in the<br />
Lake. Don notes that the presence of algae has caused an unpleasant but<br />
harmless taste in the water. “This condition only happens from July to early<br />
October. Our group applies powdered activated carbon to remove this<br />
unfavorable taste. Despite this treatment, some more sensitive residents will<br />
still notice the unpleasant taste brought about by the algae. We always<br />
recommend that these individuals chill their water to improve the taste.”<br />
Microfiltration Coming in 2010 Don reveals<br />
that residents soon will benefit from a new and improved water plant. “The<br />
city is currently under negotiations with the different communities served<br />
to build a state-of-the-art microfiltration water plant, an upgrade that offers<br />
several advantages compared to traditional treatment.”<br />
With microfiltration technology, pretreatment chemicals and sand<br />
filtration are no longer used. The microfiltration membrane also eliminates<br />
microorganisms like parasites, viruses and bacteria, making residents safer<br />
from water-borne pathogens that have concerned other communities. With<br />
fewer treatment components, the microfiltration plant is more economical<br />
and easier to operate and maintain.<br />
According to Don, the upgrades to the plant began in 2008 and will be<br />
completed in 2010. Once built, the plant will be able to provide the<br />
community with the highest quality of drinking water. The new plant will<br />
also increase its capacity from 21 to 30 million gallons of water per day,<br />
which is projected to meet the growing needs of the community as well as<br />
address drought conditions.”<br />
“Highland Park will be the second community in Lake County to use<br />
this innovative proprietary technology. Before we even began to design the<br />
upgrade, we spent more than one year testing microfiltration equipment<br />
from the two leading manufacturers to ensure that this technology was<br />
reliable under water conditions encountered year-round. We won’t fail our<br />
customers,” promises Don. “We will continue to supply quality water even<br />
while construction is ongoing.”<br />
Holly Samonte-Ampon is the manager of The Cooling Station, an<br />
ice cream and party place in Highwood at 315 Waukegan Avenue.<br />
To schedule your ice cream party, call 847-266-5164. Holly is also a<br />
freelance writer and science writer/editor who can be reached at<br />
847-312-2784 or coolingstation_holly@yahoo.com.<br />
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Spring 2009 / 25
A look at the personalities<br />
of Highland Park neighborhoods<br />
Braeside<br />
Michael Del Monte,<br />
Prosumer Real Estate<br />
The Braeside neighborhood is located on the<br />
southeast side of town, adjacent to Glencoe. Its<br />
boundaries are generally defined as Roger<br />
Williams on the north, Lake Cook Road on the<br />
south, Lake Michigan on the east and Green Bay<br />
Road on the west. In 2004, the City of Highland<br />
Park hired a consultant to survey the area.<br />
According to the study conducted by Granacki<br />
Historic Consultants, the Braeside area was one<br />
of the last areas of east Highland Park to be<br />
developed. Home to some of Highland Park’s<br />
earliest settlers, the area was named after a<br />
Scottish village. Braeside was first settled in 1843<br />
by Robert Daggitt. The family’s house once stood<br />
where the Braeside train station is now located.<br />
Daggitt Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in<br />
Highland Park, is located just east of the<br />
intersection of St. Johns and Lake Cook Road,<br />
and is all that remains of the Daggitt homestead.<br />
The Braeside area was developed in the early<br />
20th century. Today, the area encompasses an<br />
interesting range of architectural styles and types<br />
that span a period of over 100 years. Homes in<br />
the area range from Colonial and Tudor Revival<br />
residences from the 1920s and 1930s to later<br />
ranch homes and split levels.<br />
The elementary and middle schools are in<br />
District 112; the high school is in District 113.<br />
The elementary age children attend Braeside<br />
School� . The older children attend Edgewood<br />
Middle School and Highland Park High School.<br />
In June 1928, a referendum was held to<br />
purchase three acres and build Braeside School.<br />
John Van Bergen, a former associate of Frank<br />
PHOTOS: Michael Del Monte<br />
Lloyd Wright, was retained as the architect. He was a local resident and a friend and neighbor of<br />
landscape designer, Jens Jensen. Van Bergen was strongly influenced by Wright and Jensen to design a<br />
“prairie” style building in a natural setting. Far different from the factory-like schools built at that time,<br />
Braeside School was built to harmonize with the surroundings and wooded landscape. In 1982,<br />
Braeside School was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Former Braeside resident<br />
Deborah Barry recalls, “When I was growing up in Braeside, the school would flood the playing field<br />
(on the Lincolnwood/Braeside corner) for a skating rink.”<br />
The area is a true bedroom community with few commercial businesses. Recently, Bob’s Pantry &<br />
Deli � opened at 55 St. John’s Avenue, directly across from the Braeside train station. The<br />
sandwiches are as good as advertised. Adjacent to Bob’s is the Oakwood Dry Cleaners. Ravinia Park<br />
opened August 15, 1904, originally<br />
as an amusement park. Over 100<br />
years later, the Park still remains and<br />
has evolved into Ravinia Festival, the<br />
oldest outdoor music festival in<br />
North America. Residents of the area<br />
love the fact that they are within<br />
walking distance of the world<br />
renowned Ravinia Festival, which is<br />
the summer residence of the Chicago<br />
Symphony Orchestra, and they can<br />
listen to all genres of world class<br />
music so close to home.<br />
Based on information in the MlsNI in 2008, there were 53 sales and pending sales in the area<br />
ranging from $192,000 to almost $4,000,000, with an average price of around $980,000 and an<br />
average days on the market of approximately 236 days. There are currently about 60 active listings<br />
in the area, ranging from $225,000.00 to around $1,000,000.00 with an average market time of<br />
335 days. Recently, I have noticed less listings and sales due to the slowing economy, longer<br />
marketing times, and especially the excess inventory of residences currently on the market.<br />
According to friends, they have noticed a decrease of teardowns and new construction in the area. This<br />
may be due, in part, to the current economic crisis. However, real estate taxes still remain high. Others say<br />
this is the best location in Highland Park due to its natural beauty, and easy access to Lake Michigan.<br />
Michael A. Del Monte is one of the broker/owners of Prosumer Real Estate. He can be<br />
reached at 847-831-9700 or email at Mike@ProsumerRealEstate.com.<br />
PHOTO: David J. Shapiro Family Archive
Serving the North Shore<br />
for over 20 years<br />
• Family owned & operated.<br />
• We pride ourselves on offering<br />
prompt & professional service.<br />
• For all of your electrical needs.<br />
2687 Waukegan Avenue<br />
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Phone: 847.432.2070<br />
LICENSED~BONDED~INSURED<br />
Spring 2009 / 27
PHOTO: HR Imaging<br />
Team-building at six00threefive… Since May 2004<br />
six00threefive has landed on the coffee tables of residents and businesses of<br />
Highland Park and surrounding communities. Much of the success of this<br />
elite publication is due to a proactive Publication Group who nurtures<br />
stories, adds creative inspiration and promotes local businesses. New to our<br />
team is Michael Bloomquist, who will be responsible for advertising sales<br />
and marketing this magazine’s brand. As we continue on to our Summer<br />
issue—officially launching our fifth year—we strive to compile a wealth of<br />
information and transform it into an engaging, easy-to-read magazine.<br />
six00threefive offers an opportunity to tell your stories and promote your<br />
business. Call or email for more information on how you can share your<br />
story ideas or advertise in this quarterly publication. 508 Central Avenue,<br />
Suite 206, HP, 847-432-0284, 60035@ehighlandpark.com<br />
Are You Distinguished? What do Admiral Stansfield Turner, Brian Ross,<br />
Gary Sinise and Karen Nussbaum all have in common? All are Highland Park<br />
High School graduates who have been named to the select list of Distinguised<br />
Alumni. This past year, � (left ) Stephen Wizner and (right ) Denny Zeitlin<br />
were honored; Jim Swanson (center ) was co-principal at HPHS for two years.<br />
Steve, ’55, is currently Dean of Faculty, Yale Law School; and Denny, ’56, an<br />
internationally acclaimed jazz pianist/composer, is Clinical Professor of<br />
Psychiatry at University of California, San Francisco.<br />
Highland Park High School is seeking nominations for the 2009-<br />
2010 Award, given to esteemed graduates who have demonstrated a<br />
prominent achievement in their chosen field or a humanitarian service<br />
that has proven to be greatly beneficial to society. The nominees’<br />
accomplishments should reflect credit on their association with HPHS.<br />
28<br />
/ Spring 2009<br />
Nominators are asked to support nominations with personal anecdotes<br />
and documented evidence submitted with the application. Nominators also<br />
need to supply current nominee contact information and graduation year.<br />
Applications may be found on the Highland Park High School website and<br />
will be accepted through May 15, 2009. 1040 W. Park Avenue, HP,<br />
224-765-1000, www.dist113.org/hphs<br />
Modernizing Rentals… Don’t have time to run to the<br />
Highland Park Library and check out your favorite video or book? Not a<br />
problem. Now all you have to do is log on to www.MyMediaMall.net to<br />
check out digital audiobooks and ebooks from anywhere, at anytime, day or<br />
night. MyMediaMall is a new online service offered to patrons of Highland<br />
Park Library and 19 other libraries throughout Illinois. The group’s online<br />
collection provides hundreds of titles that include new fiction, classic fiction,<br />
cook books, romances, computer and business books, biographies, and more.<br />
MyMediaMall includes works by such best-selling authors as James Patterson,<br />
David Baldacci and Anita Shreve. Videos offered include comedies, classic<br />
dramas and documentaries. The online service also contains titles for children<br />
and young adults. These digital files can be downloaded and used with PCs,<br />
Macs, iPods, Zunes, MP3 players, cell phones and Sony Readers.<br />
To access the materials, you need a valid Highland Park library card,<br />
Internet access and free software for the computer or<br />
other type of device on which the material will used.<br />
Both downloading and activating the software are simple<br />
to do after logging on to the MyMediaMall website.<br />
MyMediaMall is available on the Highland Park<br />
Public Library website. For an informational brochure<br />
on using this exciting new service, stop by the<br />
Reference Desk at the Library. 494 Laurel Avenue,<br />
HP, www.hplibrary.org,847-432-0216<br />
Moving Right Along… The goal of the<br />
Volunteer Pool of Highland Park, encouraging<br />
and promoting volunteerism, has not changed, but<br />
there have been some updates to the organization.<br />
Louise Pitcher, a long-time volunteer, has been<br />
selected as the Executive Director of this 45-year-old<br />
organization. Pitcher is teaming with the Senior<br />
Center of Highland Park to help facilitate their<br />
volunteer program as well as investigating the needs of other social<br />
service agencies. “Volunteering improves everybody’s life experience—the<br />
givers and the recipients,” says Pitcher. “The need for helping hands is as<br />
great as ever.” To explore opportunities to help others, why not stop by the<br />
new office, now located at Indian Trail School. 2075 St. John’s Avenue<br />
(mailing address P.O. Box 192) HP, 847-433-2190,<br />
www.volunteerpoolhp.org
E V E R Y D A Y... A N Y D A Y...<br />
IT’S ALL THERE<br />
AT THE SQUARE<br />
ADESSO<br />
A PEA IN THE POD<br />
DAIRY QUEEN<br />
NEW BALANCE NORTH SHORE<br />
PORT CLINTON JEWELERS<br />
STARBUCKS<br />
STASH’S/GUIDO’S PASTARIA<br />
STATIONERY STATION<br />
SUSHI BADAYA<br />
TALES &TOYS<br />
WAVES HAIR SALON<br />
THE MALE ROOM<br />
WALKER BROTHERS<br />
PORT CLINTON SQUARE<br />
THE SQUARE IN THE CENTER OF DOWNTOWN<br />
HIGHLAND PARK ON CENTRAL AVENUE<br />
Indoor Parking, 3 Hours Free<br />
847.433.5306 x10<br />
www.PortClintonSquare.com
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