PHOTO: Scott Martin, Emerson Photographic - Events.org

Marty Biondi, co-owner of THERAPEUTIC &WELLNESS SPECIALISTS, at 480 Elm Place inHP, just won the Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute’sDOLPHIN AWARD at the July/2006 International Symposiumheld in Florida. The “ATRI” recognizes individuals who continueto make a difference and inspire others in the field of Aquatictherapy and rehab. Biondi was recognized for fosteringkindness and enthusiasm at multiple aquatic events, as well asfor grace and gentility in dealing with myriad problems typicalto the industry. Marty has been involved in aquatic therapy andpersonal training for over 25 years, focusing on physical therapysince 1991.Therapeutic & Wellness Specialists provides physical,aquatic and occupational therapies with a commitment toindividualized care and an emphasis on state-of-the-arttechniques. A devotion to a continuum of personal training,wellness and fitness are all part of their motto: ”Get Well, BeWell, and Stay Well!” Visit their website at www.staywellpt.com,or ask for Jane Ferry, General Manager, 847-926-9355.The AUXILIARY OF HIGHLAND PARKHOSPITAL held its annual luncheon and board meeting onOctober 27 at Northmoor Country Club. They installed NadineWoldenberg, Past-President; Julie Stone, President-Elect; AbbeSparks, Vice President; and Bettye Schontal, Recording Secretary,(all of Highland Park); Judy Tarschis, Corresponding Secretary,(Deerfield); and Helen Wilcox, Treasurer (Lake Forest). The groupraises funds for and provides service to HP Hospital, as well aspromoting community awareness of the hospital’s programs.The Auxiliary was formed in 1921, innovative women sewingrunners and tray cloths, and making jams, jellies and bandagesfor the young hospital. Today, approximately 550 men andwomen with diverse interests and considerable talents donatethousands of service hours to HP Hospital. Membership duesare $30 annually. To join the Auxiliary, please call 847-859-8930,or email them at hpaux@enh.org.At their elegant and versatile METROPOLITANCAFÉ (1791 St. Johns Avenue. in HP), owners Kathy and JimGovas have been celebrating “Late Nite Highland Park” all theway back to 2003! That was the year they extended their hours,adding a piano bar featuring soloists, duets and a Karaoke Night,and later jazz quartets, as well as a guest-bartender promotion,where such dignitaries as HP Mayor Mike Belsky found stillanother way to serve the public!But the most amazing thing about Metropolitan Café is itschameleon-like ability to embrace any private event, fromshowers to Bar Mitzvahs to weddings! (A recent weddingincluded the entire ceremony and reception in their surprisinglyexpansive St. Johns and Metropolitan Rooms.) With doubledeckerparking across the street, guests can enter and departsmoothly, though valet parking is often available as well.Jim and Kathy have constantly donated their time, theirrestaurant and their money to dozens of charitable events, both atthe Highland Park location and at their beautiful new Grille onLaurel in Lake Forest. Somehow, Kathy manages to serve on theHP Chamber Board, and was instrumental in orchestrating“Fashion Week.” Husband Jim has been a restaurateur for almost(continued on page 12)PHOTO: Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance10 / Holiday 2006