Spring 2005 - Events.org

Transcription

Spring 2005
Cover: Roberta Edelheit
Highland Park Chamber of Commerce / City of Highland Park
HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ehighlandpark.com
508 Central Avenue, Suite 206
Highland Park, Illinois 60035
847-432-0284 fax 847-432-2802
60035@ehighlandpark.com
Virginia Anzelmo Glasner, Executive Director
Carol Caris, Front Desk
OFFICERS
Sandy McCraren, Highland Park Bank &
Trust, Co-President
Judy Rosenbloom, The Treasure Chest,
Co-President
Gabrielle Cummings, ENH-Highland Park
Hospital, Vice President
Larry Hillman, Hillco Realty Management,
Interim Treasurer
Charlie Barnes, The Custom Framer,
Immediate Past President
DIRECTORS
Jill Doherty, The Northern Trust
Peter Eisendrath, Signs Now
Rick Feder, Renaissance Place
Kathryn Govas, Metropolitan Café
Corky Peterson, Autosonics
Nick Pullia, Ravinia Festival Association
Ann Rosen, Suburban Fine Arts Center
Christopher Sheahen, Mutual Ace Hardware
Smita Sheth, National City Bank
Rick Shoemaker, Rick’s Auto Care &
Collision Repair
T.J. Tazioli, Sunset Foods
Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance Agency
Mark Williams, Williams All Seasons
Roger Wolff, the Bootery
EX-OFFICIO
Mari Barnes, City Council
Steve Meyer, Park District of Highland Park
© 2005 “six00threefive” is published
triannually to promote Highland Park’s
diverse business community.
This project underwritten in part by the
CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK
www.cityhpil.com
1707 St. Johns Ave.
Highland Park, IL 60035
847-432-0800
Mayor Michael D. Belsky
Councilman Michael Brenner
Councilman Steven Mandel
Councilwoman Mari Barnes
Councilman Jim Kirsch
Councilman Larry Silberman
Councilman Scott Levenfeld
DESIGN AND EDITORIAL
Wordspecs Advertising Agency
847-550-1275 60035@wordspecs.com
When we thin
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outstanding high inner. Every May, Chamber r of Commerce
m
Deerfield High school students from Highland ember businesses recognize
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School students
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volunteerism, cr ub sponsors for excellence by their teachers, counselors
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The Chamber
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Ginny Anzelmo
Glasner
Executive Direc
tor, Highland P
ark Chamber of
Commerce
hland Parker,
sing
Dear Fellow Hig
If not, you are mis of
?
ly
nt
ce
re
rk
Pa
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ty
downtown Highlan
. In 2004 the Ci
Have you been to best on the entire North Shore hich yielded some
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In July, 50 plante ntown, just one of the visual es of walking tours
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Beautification
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as
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and visitors, bu
.
remains strong
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Michael D. Belsk Park
d
an
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ig
H
Mayor of
FEATURES
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Speaking Professionally . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Spring 2005
Architectural Additions .13
Sunset Foods . . . . . . .2
[Sub]urban Legends: “Shoe Tree” . . . . . . . .8
the Bootery . . . . . . . .11
The Custom Framer . . .30
“Missing” Highland Park . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Crossroads Car Wash . .20
Therapeutic Kneads . . .3
Curves . . . . . . . . . . .28
Odd Couples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
D&R Autoworks . . . . .29
Wenk Insurance
Agencies . . . . . . . .18
Caught Reading
DiVinci Painters . . . . .20
Williams/Bernhardt . . .16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Q? and A! with Ann Slavick,
FOCUS ON THE ARTS . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Whatever Happened to
Chamber Group Insurance? . . . . . . . . . .29
40th Anniversary Student Honor Dinner . . . .30
ENH-Highland Park
Hospital . . .Inside Back
Fence Works .Back Cover
Garfinkles Fine Jewelry .12
We accept advertising in
black and white and full
color from Highland Park
Chamber of Commerce
members and from other
advertisers, subject to
publication and payment
schedules and artwork
specifications.
Hi-Land Frame & Art . .22
Highland Park
Bank & Trust . . . . . .24
Highland Park Furs . . .23
Kinetic Effect . . . . . . .19
Know Now/Know How
HCR ManorCare . . . . . .7
Licensed Massage Therapists . . . . . . . . . .7
Indoor Tanning Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Michael’s
Hot Dogs
. .Inside Front
To obtain a copy of the
six00threefive media kit,
please send an email to
60035@ehighlandpark.com,
SUBJECT: “Media Kit,” or
call 847-432-0284.
Music Arts School . . . .32
National City Bank . . . .21
PaintJAR . . . . . . . . .25
Specials
Palm Beach Tan . . . . .31
Welcome New Members . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Raintree Gifts
. . . . . .22
Ravinia Festival . . . . . .8
Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
They Once Were Little Giants . . . . . . . . .25
Requests, comments, compliments?
Email 60035@ehighlandpark.com
Ready for a byline? To pitch your story idea, email
60035@ehighlandpark.com, SUBJECT: “Pitch.”
For information on advertising, call the Highland
Park Chamber of Commerce at 847-432-0284.
Media Kits can be mailed, faxed or emailed.
Advertising space is limited. DEADLINE July issue is
April 15, 2005.
Give, and you shall receive!
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Massage 7 days a week
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Painting and restoration
Older home care
Bath/Kitchen Remodeling
Construction…all phases
Plaster and drywall
Wall coverings
Decorative finishes, murals
847 926 9476
www.paintjar.com
At our Highland Park suite
and at your home or office
Male and female therapists
*Gifts available in any amount; each
certificate $100+ qualifies for bonus.
Mention this ad when you ask for details.
Thru 5/15/05.
847-266-0131
WeKneadYou.com
Illinois State License No. 227-001829
Spring 2005 /
3
Nothing but cheerful service
and clean vehicles at
Enterprise, thanks to great
staff like Dave Fontechia,
Mngt. Asst., and and Cory
Burd, Mngt. Trainee.
Many of us aren’t sure whether to see an MD, a psychiatrist, a
nutritionist, or a “detox specialist” for fatigue, depression,
exhaustion, back problems or weight control. “Health is
balance,” says DR. HOWARD WOLIN. “Mind, body
and spirit are the elements involved in the creation of balance.”
Dr. Wolin brought his diagnostic and treatment-based practice
from Chicago and Wilmette to the 799 Central Ave. Building in HP
(attached to the new Equinox). He was a high-performance
athlete from the age of 14, and at 22 began his medical training
at Michael Reese, where he gradually blended his psychiatric
practice with chiropractic, geriatric, holistic and homeopathic
healing. He loves Highland Park and has no plans to move any
further North! Call Dr. Wolin at 847-926-4900, or email him at
howardwolin@wolinworkswonders.com.
Speaking of holistic healing…Nancy Grace Marder, Executive
Director of INFINITY FOUNDATION, a non-profit
educational organization at 1282 Old Skokie Road in HP, wants to
invite you to an holistic practitioners’ fair, with free demos, a
delicious buffet, and program on May 7 at the HP Community
House on Sheridan Road. Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, professor of
medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts and
founder of the school’s Stress Reduction Clinic, will talk about
bringing mindfulness into the mainstream of medicine and
society. Dr. Kabat-Zinn is the author of Full Catastrophe Living:
Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain
and Illness Wherever You Go and other books that can help you
deal with everyday dangers like crossing Central Avenue safely
during rush hour! They also hold their 8TH BIRTHDAY
BENEFIT on May 7. Call Nancy Marder at 847-831-8828 for
tickets, or visit www.infinityfoundation.org.
4
/ Spring 2005
General Manager Paul Johnson and Assistant Manager
Roseanne Abbinante, ENTERPRISE RENT-ACAR, 1430 Old Skokie Road in HP, can reduce your car-rental
stress with their expanded team of 5 full-time customer service
reps, not to mention the additional 20 “just-washed” vehicles at
the Highland Park location. All of this is part of their mission to
better serve families and businesses needing immediate
“wheels” in and around Highland Park. Enterprise came out of
“nowhere” in the 90s to emerge as the nation’s top-rated rental
car company, simply by providing instant and friendly service
wherever it’s needed, out of modest, conveniently-placed offices
that range from tiny counters at car dealerships, to free-standing
buildings, all with the same great communication and helpful
attitude. Enterprise has a special program underway for
corporate leasing of vehicles at new discounts for 2005. Their
Highland Park phone is 847-831-3880, or check out their national
site at www.enterprise.com.
disseminate knowledge about building construction and
technology. Their confidence in David is a real feather in our
cap.“ Bunker could not have been more pleased. “I look forward
to working with the organization and upping the level of
construction and inspection expertise and controls necessary in
an ever-changing market,” he said. “I am very excited about this
opportunity.” Building Inspectors Consortium Inc. and its
employees have over 40 years of combined experience in the
building and building inspection business. They offer complete
residential and small commercial property inspections along
with both Radon and Wood Destroying Insect inspections. For
further information on Building Inspectors Consortium, please
contact them through their website at www.biconsortium.com.
Apple Tree Theatre’s Meriah Sage, Dir. of Ed.;
Jack Short, Box Office Mgr.; Lynn Baber, Assoc.
Producer; Ligia Himebaugh, Dir. of Mktg./PR.
Not pictured: Eileen Boevers, Exec. Artistic
Associate; Tim Stadler, Production Mgr.
Love, lust, and loneliness are depicted in a series of 10 dancelike musical vignettes that jump backward and forward in time
from the early 1900s to present day. Hello Again has been
described by its composer as a “ballet of words”, and is,
ultimately, an expression of the search for intimacy and where
that search takes us. It is a sensual and provocative new
musical that is “strictly for grownups,” and is the next
production at APPLE TREE THEATRE, 595 Elm
Place, HP. The show runs from April 13 through May 15, 2005.
The production design team for Hello Again includes Rita
Vreeland (Stage Manager), Tom Burch (Set Design), Nick
Keenan (Sound Designer), David Ferguson (Props Designer),
Tatjana Radisic (Costume Designer), and Jacqueline Reid
(Lighting Designer). Tickets are $38 ($33 for students and seniors)
and group/party rates are available. Normal performance times
are Wednesdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays at 8:00 pm, Saturday 5:00 pm
and 8:30 pm, and Sundays at 3:00 and 7:00 pm. For tickets and
for details on future performances, contact the box office at
847-432-4335, or email Ligia Himebaugh, Marketing Director,
lhimebaugh@appletreetheatre.com.
As baseball returns to Chicago, and Cub fans and Sox fans
resume hurling insults at each other, THE MALE
ROOM, at Port Clinton Square in HP, can instantly dissolve
those arguments by showcasing Cubs, White Sox, and a variety
of sports gifts for all occasions. Bring co-owners Lynne
Kornblatt and Sheila Stender a friend’s or relative’s business
card, and the talented staff will use it to help design a memory
box or desk-sized steel sculpture to highlight that person’s
hobbies and talents in a creative way that will be greatly
appreciated by the lucky recipient! Call 847-432-MALE, or email
maleroom@aol.com. As graduation time or any special occasion
or milestone draws near, your deserving “celebrity” can be
permanently honored with a clever conversation piece
constructed from your friend’s or relative’s personal life.
BUILDING
INSPECTORS CONSORTIUM INC.,
Jeff Nathan, President of
announced that David Bunker, Senior Vice President, was
elected to the directorship of the Great Lakes Chapter of the
American Society of Home Inspectors. “This is a great honor for
David and our firm” said Nathan. “We believe that the Great
Lakes Chapter is outstanding in its ability to organize and
(continued on next page)
Spring 2005 /
5
PHOTOS: Daniel Kullman, Bitter Jester
BITTER JESTER ENTERTAINMENT,
LTD. (BJE) is a newly formed production company whose staff
boasts more than 10 years of hands-on experience and multiple
production awards. BJE is dedicated to
imagination and creative expression through
the visual and performing arts. But let’s get
down to business: How about a sales
training video, photographs of your newest
lines or a product demonstration DVD? Flash
is trash! These gentlemen are subtle and
sophisticated. (Of course, they’re slightly
nuts, which makes them fun to work with.)
Bitter Jester is one call to make if you are
planning a wedding, bar or bat mitzvah,
corporate celebration or sales training. Their
signature style is displayed across the range
of videography, editing, photography and
especially in their live sketch comedy troupe, “The Comic Thread.”
(They’ve got a show, and in fact
will be performing at FOCUS ON
THE ARTS this season.) Coowners Nicolas DeGrazia and
Daniel Kullman both were
graduated from Highland Park
High School and the University
of Miami. Bitter Jester
Entertainment is located at 1907
Second Street (above Steven
Share’s State Farm office). If you
want a highly-polished, classy
final product, call 847-433-8660
or visit www.BitterJester.com to
request a free DVD portfolio and to see clips of their “going live.”
Forest Bootery gets a face lift! Owners Roger and Nancy Wolff,
after 27 years, have changed their store’s name to THE
BOOTERY. New store logo and signs might be up by the
time you read this. The really big news is that a second Bootery
will be opening this summer in the Midwest vacation hot spot,
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. They can’t seem to stay away from a
lake shore!
STASH’S/GUIDO’S PASTARIA, 610 Central
Avenue at Port Clinton Square, throws its breakfast hat into the
HP ring in early March, claims owner Bobby Dubin! Speedy and
reasonably priced (so low, we can’t publish it or it would seem
like “advertising”), they give you two eggs any style, toasted
bagel and hash browns, or a buck more for a sizzling omelette
made “your way.” As a special accommodation to local
business people, Dubin will honor this bargain breakfast for
table service—if you’re going to “take a meeting,” he’s going to
break some eggs! Dubin feels that breakfast in Highland Park
currently means spending
either an hour or more for
the “whole thing,” or having
it thrown at you “too fast” at
the national chains, so this
should be just right, whether
dining in or carrying out.
Speaking of carrying out,
don’t forget their “drive-up”
curb service just to the right
(South) of the main
restaurant! You can call
them ahead for any meal, at
847-432-6550, or fax your order to 847-432-5945.
SWEET MEMORIES BAKERY, 1852 First Street,
celebrates a milestone this month—its first anniversary. Locals
have warmed up to homemade cakes, cookies, muffins and
other sweet comfort foods. “The industry consensus is that the
low-carb craze is finally dying down,” owner Marjorie Fradin
remarks. “I think people are realizing that as long as you eat a
balanced diet, it’s OK to treat yourself to dessert once in a while,
or even every day. And as long as you’re going to eat dessert,
why not make it something delicious and fresh?” Homemade
marshmallows flavored with apple cider, pumpkin and cinnamon,
a Thanksgiving hit, have been added to the regular menu. Fradin,
a Highland Park resident, points out that her bakery is Highland
Park’s only retailer offering La Briola Bakery breads, which fill
the bread baskets of many of the North Shore’s finest
restaurants. Special orders (11 am the day before) make their
entire line available to you. Treat yourself to a visit to Sweet
Memories, and while you’re there, ask for a free taste of cake by
the scoop or a lemon or lime blossom. 847-432-1025.
Wes Wenk is your go-to guy with news.
Speak out on expansions, awards, community service, special events.
Email wes@wenkinsurance.com or fax 847-433-1345
6
/ Spring 2005
PHOTO: Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance Agencies
(continued from previous page)
A grandfathering provision allows for those practicing
prior to the commencement of the law to be licensed, if
they have one of the following:
Licensed Massage Therapists
Has been a member of a national professional
massage organization, such as the AMTA or ABMP,
for at least one year prior to applying
Sandy Saldano, Therapeutic Kneads, Ltd.
As of January 1, 2005, the State of Illinois licenses
Massage Therapists. Although Illinois is the headquarters
for the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), it
was the thirty-second state to pass a licensing act.
Fingerprinting got the “thumbs up” from the state.
Anyone whose criminal record is directly contrary to
professionalism—prostitution, rape, sexual misconduct or
someone who is a registered sex offender—would be barred
from licensure. The state has set other requirements, as well:
Has successfully completed a curriculum of massage
therapy at schools approved by the Department of
Professional Regulations that require a minimum of
500 hours or more and has passed a competency exam
Holds a current license from another state that
meets or exceeds Illinois’ requirements
Passed the National Certification exam by the
NCBTMB
Has practiced massage an average of 10 hours per
week for at least 10 years or for at least one year
prior to Jan. 1, 2005, and has a minimum of 100
hours of formal training.
Chiropractors, physicians, nurses, physical therapists,
reflexologists, Rolfers, and related professionals are
exempt from this law.
When you see that license on the wall, you know you are
in good hands. Your practitioner has the credentials; now all
you need is to make the time to take care of yourself.
If you have questions about the content of this
article, please email massage@wekneadyou.com,
SUBJECT: “Licenses.”
Passed the NCBTMB (National Certification Board
of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) exam
You may already know that HCR Manor Care is the premier
provider of post-acute and rehabilitative care, but did you know we offer…
• a strong, stable, national organization dedicated to quality care
• state-of-the-art rehab facilities
• career advancement and development
• education assistance and innovative training programs
• medical, dental, life, Rx plan, 401(k) with match and more
Our HIGHLAND PARK facility has Healthcare
Opportunities available for the right candidates.
Respond to: HCR MANOR CARE – HIGHLAND PARK • 2773 Skokie Valley Road
Highland Park, IL 60035 • Ph: 847-266-9266 • Fax: 847-266-9240
Apply online at: www.hcr-manorcare.com
EEO/Drug-Free Employer
Spring 2005 /
7
“Shoe Tree”
[Sub]urban Legends
In winter, when the trees are bare, you notice architectural
details, the structure of the landscape, the dome of the sky
arcing past the lake’s horizon. Or, you notice a tree that isn’t
bare. Carol Caris, who brought the curious “Shoe Tree” to
our attention, claims it is always dripping shoes (giving it
that ”lacy” effect). This curious tree stands (seemingly on
its head, with its many feet in the air) where Berkeley
deadends at Ridge Road. You can change your shoes, but
can you answer the question, “What’s up with this tree?”
I think that I shall never see
a poem as weird as this “shoe tree.”
A tree whose leafless limbs are dressed
with Nikes, Birkenstocks and Bass.
A tree that suffers Borns all day
might think “Hush Puppies, go away!”
A tree that may in springtime wear
Big Allen-Edmonds by the pair
Upon whose bosom Uggs have lain;
Whose Merrell Tundras shed the rain.
Shoes are thrown by fools like me,
But only Asics make a tree.
Once the summer is over,
the music doesn’t end at Ravinia.
RAVINIA’S
Rising Stars
October 22, 2004 – April 29, 2005 • 8pm
Bennett • Gordon Hall in the John D. Harza Building
PHOTO: Deborah Barry, Wordspecs
Deborah Barry, Wordspecs
Every city needs a [sub]urban legend. We’re naming
this “SL-I” If you know the scoop, or have the next
legend to ponder, email 60035@ehighlandpark.com,
SUBJECT: “Legends.”
Nine great recitals with up-and-coming artists
in Ravinia’s intimate Bennett • Gordon Hall.
See the stars of tomorrow at Ravinia today!
Friday, March 11, 2005
Antoine Lederlin, cello
Friday, April 8, 2005
Antonio Pompa-Baldi, piano
"Excellent cellist, Antoine Lederlin,
opened the program with a
well-integrated and appealing
performance."
"Antonio Pompa-Baldi possesses
dazzle." —The New York Times.
—Herald-Times
“One of the nation’s primary musical launching pads.”
—Chicago Tribune
Amelia Piano Trio
"Remarkable" —Strings
Friday, March 18, 2005
Frank Huang, violin
"The overlap between competition
winners and important artists is
slender at best, but sometimes a
musician does fall into both camps."
—San Francisco Chronicle
Musicians from Ravinia’s
Steans Institute
Elizabeth Schumann, piano
"Remarkably poised."
—Cleveland Plain Dealer
ONLY $15 PER CONCERT!
Order four concerts and enjoy these
VIP SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS:
• 20% savings on tickets
• Special one-time 15% discount
from Borders
• Exclusive receptions with the artists
Media support provided by:
The official airline of Rising Stars at Ravinia
8
/ Spring 2005
Media support provided by:
Yamaha
is the official piano
of the Ravinia Festival.
The Ravinia Festival Association wishes to express its appreciation to
The Albert Pick, Jr. Fund and Mt. Prospect National Bank
for their long-term support of Rising Stars at Ravinia.
Coffee and dessert provided by Gaper’s Caterers and Levy Restaurants.
Carole Mark Gingiss
Look around our city. We have wonderful shops, restaurants, schools,
churches, and synagogues. Check out our businesses in Ravinia, the
Crossroads area, and along Route 41. Don’t forget shops on the west side of
the expressway near the Highland Park Police Station or in Garrity Square.
Our downtown is vibrant. Port Clinton boasts live concerts with people
strolling, sitting, or just visiting with friends. Renaissance Place and Port
Clinton have forever changed the face of our downtown. We are no longer a
small town city.
Yet, with all we have and enjoy in our community, sometimes we long
for what once was in Highland Park. Can any long time Highland Parker
ever forget the Cortesi family greeting us at Sunset Foods? How about Red
Fell from The Fell Company welcoming customers? Do you remember
Mr. Powell from the Style Shop? These are old friends, forever implanted in
our memories.
What about businesses in Highland Park? How many of us remember
where the Post Office used to be, across from Video Adventure. Or, where
Walgreens stood, where Borders is now located. Where could you buy a
bobby pin, a shower curtain, and white socks all in the same one-stop
shopping trip? Garnett’s, of course, where Adesso is now located. Who can
remember the once very small Country Kitchen, next door to where it is
today? How many years ago was Central Street a one-way street going west?
Can you imagine that!
Take a stroll with us down memory lane as we hear from long-time Highland
Park residents who love our city, but miss some of the businesses, buildings,
and people that made it a wonderful place to live in, then as well as now.
Virginia “Bunny” Knox Collins was born and raised in Highland Park.
She is also the former Executive Director of the Highland Park Chamber of
Commerce, a job she held for 14 years. Collins misses the two soda fountains
in Gsells, one on Central and one in Ravinia. She went there as a schoolgirl.
She chuckles over a day years ago when the Christian Science Church and
Reading Room building on Second Street was physically moved from one
side of the street to its present location, next to Video Adventure. “I was
sitting at my desk in my office and there, before my eyes, the entire Reading
Room building was stuck in the middle of the street! It sat there for about a
day or two until it was moved to where it is now. It was a very strange sight.”
Years ago, Collins was involved in the process of interviewing developers
for our current downtown. “We went from a small town community where
everybody knew each other, to the big city we have now. We never had a
public place for celebrations in the old days before Port Clinton.”
(continued on page 11)
Welcome,
New Members
The Highland Park Chamber of
Commerce urges you to reward the
businesses that commit to our local
economy. Call 847-432-0284 for a
referral, or visit www.ehighlandpark.com.
BodyLogicMD
Center dedicated to promoting longterm health. A system combining
nutrition, fitness and biodentical
hormone therapy.
Dr. Paul Savage
4753 N. Broadway, Suite 101, Chicago 60640
773-640-1400
www.bodylogicmd.com
Bluegrass Restaurant
All-American restaurant serving
seafood to steaks, chicken and pasta to
burgers and salads.
Jim Lederer
1636 Old Deerfield Road, HP
847-831-0595
www.bluegrasshp.com
Palm Beach Tan
UV and Mystic tanning facility including
skin care products. Smart Tan certified
employees.
Sarah Nather
799 Central Avenue, HP
847-433-7382
www.palmbeachtan.com
Sweet Memories
Homestyle bakery, all fresh pastries and
other goodies, baked from scratch on
the premises. Will design and create
one-of-a-kind cakes for special
occasions. Catering services available.
Marjorie Fradin
1852 First Street, HP
847-432-1025
www.sweetmemories-bakery.com
Vogue Printers, Inc.
Commercial printer specializing in highend advertising, sales promotion and
product marketing; in-house diecutting,
inkjet addressing and mailing.
Pete DePerte
820 S. Northpoint Blvd., Waukegan 60085
847-578-1800
www.vogueprinters.com
Howard E. Wolin, MD, Ltd.
Holistic psychiatrist who works with
alternative medical techniques blended
with traditional techniques in order to
heal mind, body and spirit.
American Cancer Society
Volunteer health organization dedicated
to eliminating cancer as a major health
problem through research, education,
advocacy and service.
Dr. Howard Wolin
799 Central Avenue, Suite 340, HP
847-926-4900
www.wolinworkswonders.com
Mary Kennedy
100 Tri-State International, Suite 125,
Lincolnshire 60069
847-317-0025
www.cancer.org
Raintree Gifts
Art, crafts, cards and unusual items.
Jewelry, paintings, stationery, quilts,
scarves, photographs and
miscellaneous children’s items.
Deborah F. Rubenstein
473 Roger Williams, HP
847-433-3781
TAE Enterprises
Registered agent for Child Shield USA.
Program providing parents prevention
and security through education first and
effective, organized recovery systems
second.
Carlos Garcia
1055 Half Day Road, HP
847-762-9055
www.taesfamilysafety.com
Abbe Sparks Public Relations
Public Relations service specializing in
PR, media relations and special events.
Abbe Sparks
324 N. Deere Park Drive West, HP
847-266-1433
The Nail Shop
Full service nail salon: manicures,
pedicures, waxing, laser hair removal
Rita Beygel
485 Roger Willliams, HP
847-926-8202
AIG/Transamerica
Life Insurance
Peter Epstein
1695 Second Street, #303, HP
847-910-6736
The Bent Fork
Bakery specializing in gift baskets,
corporate gifts, party platters and sweet
tables.
Elizabeth Bearwald
333 Waukegan, Highwood 60040
847-926-4438
www.thebentfork.com
Are you interested in advertising in this magazine? Call 847-4320284 or email 60035@ehighlandpark.com, SUBJECT: “Media Kit”
10
/ Spring 2005
JSK Financial Services
Insurance for individual or group (health,
life, dental, long-term care, disability)
Jeremy Knobel
650 Sumac, HP
847-579-0519
Bitter Jester Entertainment
Boutique production and entertainment
service specializing in personal and
corporate digital video productions,
editing, photography, advertising and
writing services. Wedding and event
videography to corporate commercial
productions. Live entertainment
including comedy and live music.
Nicolas DeGrazia
1907 Second Street, Suite Two, HP
847-433-8660
www.bitterjester.com
Stima Bleu
Upscale women’s shoe boutique
Renata Kukoc
1815 St. Johns Avenue, HP
847-681-9577
No risk, high returns!
Membership in the Highland Park
Chamber of Commerce is a modest
annual investment in your professional
relationships and community outreach.
Members participate in exclusive
opportunities such as Sidewalk Sale,
advertising programs and events
throughout the year.
Membership applications may be
made by individuals, nonprofit
organizations and all categories of
businesses, including home-based. For
a membership packet and information
on volunteer opportunities on our
active committees, please contact:
Ginny Glasner, Exec. Dir.
Highland Park Chamber of Commerce
508 Central Avenue, Suite 206
Highland Park, Illinois 60035
847-432-0284 fax 847-432-2802
60035@ehighlandpark.com
“Missing” Highland Park
(continued from page 9)
Collins had one final thought on things she misses in
Highland Park.“There was once an A&P grocery store
where Once Upon A Bagel now stands on First Street. We
really didn’t shop there because we were very loyal Sunset
Foods people, but, it was a part of Highland Park.”
Another Highland Parker born and raised here is Bruce
Johnson. He was a pharmacist who worked at Pease
Pharmacy for eight years. Pease was located across from
Gsells on Central Avenue. He spent another four years
practicing his trade at Gsells.
He remembers and misses Ravinia Park when it first
started out with only operas and the Chicago Symphony.
“In 1938, Ravinia had a bad year due to excessive rain.
They brought in a guy called Benny Goodman to attract
larger crowds. I think that was the beginning of pop music
at Ravinia.”
Johnson’s grandfather, renowned landscape architect
Jens Jensen, moved his offices to Ravinia in 1920 and lived
in a summer home on Dean Avenue. Jensen designed many
landscapes in Highland Park; a park named after him is in
Ravinia at Roger Williams and St. John’s Avenues.
Pete Koukos, former City Councilman, has lived here for
42 years. His house was once a stable on a huge estate. He
misses the soda fountain in the Walgreens on Central where
Borders is now located. “You can’t find a soda fountain
anymore,” Koukos said.
What Koukos really misses is the original Ace Hardware
on Second Street. “The old Ace with the nails in the bins;
you could buy a bunch of nails for five cents.” Regarding
the “new Highland Park,” Koukos feels, “it certainly isn’t
like it was when Peg and I moved here. What we have now
is better than what we had, in that if you don’t grow, you
die. The improvements have been outstanding and continue
to be, in spite of some tear down replacements.”
When first approached, former Mayor Ray Geraci didn’t
think he could recall things he missed about Highland
Park, even though he was born and raised here. Then, the
flood gate opened and he came up with these gems.
“I really miss the North Shore Line.You could get on at
Ravinia and get off at Vine to go to the high school. What
was really nice about the train was you could get off at any
stop along the way, block by block. It stopped at Laurel,
Central, and then Vine. It was our only means of
transportation as kids. None of us had cars.”
Another favorite of Geraci’s was Larson’s Stationery Store
where Commuter Cleaners is now. “Albert Larson, the
owner, lived into his late 90s and was a legend in Highland
Park. People know it was a stationery store, but what most
don’t remember is that it was also a penny candy store. We
would go into the store with a penny or two and buy our
favorite candy.”
Soda fountains seem to be missed by a lot of lifelong
Highland Parkers. According to Geraci, “ I miss all the
soda fountains in Highland Park. It was the meeting place
for the kids. There were Walgreens and Pease pharmacies. I
worked the soda fountain at Walgreens.”
Geraci lamented over missing one of his favorite meals at
Woolworth’s, located approximately where Dairy Queen
stands today. “We used to eat their hot roast beef sandwich
on white bread covered with brown gravy. It was a favorite
of many Highland Parkers.”
The former mayor turned the tables and asked us a
question. “Did you know the Highland Park Theater was
once called the Alcyon Theater? I was 12 or 13 and worked
as an usher. I got twenty-five cents an hour plus I wore a
wonderful uniform with gold braiding. It cost ten cents to
get into the theater. Matinees were on Saturday and Sunday
afternoons, and Wednesday was double feature day.”
“Oh, another thing. I really miss the bowling alley that
was under where Ross Discount now stands. I worked there.
(continued on next page 12)
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I was about 12 and worked as a pin boy. People paid ten
cents a line for setting the pins. Above the bowling alley
was a soda fountain owned by the Lencioni family. It was a
classic.” Geraci said there was a Chinese hand laundry in
back of The Fell Company on Central. “I used to bring in
my grandfather’s collars to be starched. In those days,
collars detached from the shirts.”
Finally, Geraci got down to food and what he missed.
“There were two wonderful bakeries in Highland Park. One
was Baum’s and one was Chris’. They were very different.
Baum’s was more upscale, and the cakes were a lot fancier.
Not many people could afford to shop there. There was one
interesting thing about those beautiful cakes. They were
usually not level; they tilted to one side. They were known
for that. Baum’s was where Walker Brothers Pancake House
is located. Chris’ Bakery was across the street where Shutan
Camera stands today. They were not as elegant as Baum’s.
The working class went there. They had the best five-cent
cream puffs. I can still taste them.”
Now, we turn to Chuck Wenk, a pilot, a second baseman,
and a columnist for 50 years. He’s spent 51 years in
Highland Park. Wenk misses the “luke warm hot dogs at the
Woolworth’s lunch counter.” He fondly remembers Ruby’s
Tell ’em you got it at
GARFINKLES
Deli on the current site of Border’s. “It was the meeting spot
for everyone. There was friendly service, and you could sit
and talk politics for hours and no one bothered you. It was
what we would call a coffee house today.”
Wenk said he misses Garnett’s and The Fell Co. He also
recalls, “Highland Park had a small town atmosphere where
everybody knew everybody else. I think that feeling is
mostly gone today.”
One of Wenk’s funny recollections is of Siljestrom Oil Co.
when it was in Highland Park. “Jim Siljestrom and Dick Van
Arsdale served most of the homes with oil heat. They delivered
oil to our house on Saturday and stayed to play cards.”
In the late ’50s, Wenk opened a restaurant in the area. It
was called Charlie Wenk’s Cantonese Tea House. “There were
no restaurants in this town then. We went to Highwood to eat
out. We had Del Rio, Al and Jane’s, and My Favorite Inn.”
“I opened my own restaurant. Two chefs from the ShangriLa Restaurant in Chicago joined me. It was where the Yummy
Bowl is now. Since we couldn’t serve liquor in those days, it
was BYO. Several years later, a man named Bob Chinn and
his brother, Wally, bought it. Later, of course, Bob Chinn
opened his hugely successful restaurant on Milwaukee in
Wheeling.”
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Highland Park
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12
/ Spring 2005
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march 2005
march 2005
SUNDAY
MONDAY
National Nutrition Month
Women’s History Month
International Hamburger & Pickle Month
Frozen Food Month
Foot Health Month
Poison Prevention Month
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
• Ravinia Neighbors
Association Meeting,
7-9 pm, Ravinia Train
Station
1
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
• Infant & Child
Safety/ CPR, 9 am,
HP Hospital, $, 480-3909
• Syrup Harvest, Sunset
Woods, $, 433-6901
• Murder Mystery, Chi.
Botanic Gdn., $, 835-5440
2
3
4
9
10
11
12
• Dist. #112, No
School, Conferences
8 am-noon • Retail Round
Table, 8:30 am, Rosebud
• Ravinia’s Rising Stars,
Frank Huang, violin, 8 pm,
$
19
6
• Syrup Harvest,
• Casmir Pulaski’s
10:30-11:30 am,
Birthday • No School,
Sunset Woods, $, 433-6901 Districts 112 and 113
• Lily Lecture Series,
2 pm., Chicago Botanic
Garden, 835-5440
7
• HPCoC Executive
Board Meeting,
8:30 am
13
14
15
16
• Dist. #112, early
dismissal: Middle
Schools, 1:30 pm; Elem.
schools, 2:10 pm;
Conf. 4-8 pm • ENH-HPH
Fashion Show, 10:30 am,
$, Abbe Sparks, 266-1433
17
• St. Patrick’s Day
• Dist. #112, No
School, Conferences,
noon-8 pm • Women’s
Networking Bkft., 8:30 am,
Smita Sheth, 432-2008
18
• First day of Spring
• Northern Illinois
Gesneriad Show & Sale,
10 am-4:30 pm, Chicago
Botanic Garden, 835-5440
21
22
23
• HPCoC Community
Relations Comm.,
8:45 am
24
• Lyric Opera
Lecture, “The Ring
Cycle,” HP Library
Auditorium, 7:30-8:30 pm
25
29
30
31
March Flower: Jonquil
March Gem: Aquamarine
20
• Easter
27
8
• HPCoC Full Board
Meeting, noon
•
28
• Blood Drive, 1-8 pm,
HP Hospital
5
• BP Screening, 8:30• Chicago Flower &
10:30 am, HP
Garden Show
Hospital, 480-3909
(thru 03/20) Navy Pier, $,
• PasspORT Days begin
Chicago Botanic Garden,
(thru 3/19) • Ravinia’s
835-5440
Rising Stars, Antoine
Lederlin, cello, 8 pm, $
• Egg Hunt, 10 am,
Sunset Woods,
579-3120 • Last day for
PasspORT • N. Illinois
Gesneriad Show/Sale,
10 am-4:30 pm, Chicago
• Purim • Good Friday
• Spring Break
begins, Districts #112 &
#113 • Blood Pressure
Screening, 8:30-10:30 am,
HP Hospital
april 2005
All phone numbers are (847) unless otherwise noted. “$” designates fee. Information as of press time; please confirm.
april 2005
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Alcohol Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month
Humor Month
Garden Month
Poetry Month
4
•Classes Resume
Dist. 112 & #113
• White Sox Home Opener
5
• “Get Caught
Reading in Highland
Park” Photo Exhibit,
Opening Reception begins
at 1 pm, HPPL, 432-0216
11
12
• HPCoC Executive
Board Meeting,
8:30 am
10
THURSDAY
April Flower: Sweet Pea & Daisy
April Gem: Diamond
• Daylight Savings
Time Begins, set
clocks forward • Bead
Sale, 10 am-5 pm,
Suburban Fine Arts
Center, $, 432-1888
3
WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY
• April Fool’s Day
• Ravinia’s Rising
Stars, Musicians from
Ravinia’s Steans Institute,
8 pm $ • Wonders of the
Woodcock, at dusk thru
04/22, Heller, 433-6901
1
SATURDAY
• Ikenobo Ikebana
Society Show, 10 am4:30 pm, (also on Sunday),
835-5440 • Chicago Fire
Home Opener
2
•Infant & Child
Safety/CPR, 6:30 pm9:30 pm, HP Hospital, $,
480-3909 • Ravinia
Neighbors Association
Meeting, 7-9 pm, Ravinia
Train Station
• World Health Day
• CPR for Family &
Friends, 6:30-10:30 pm, HP
Hospital, $, 480-3909
• BP Screening, 8:30• Illinois Orchid
10:30 am, HP Hospital
Society Show/Sale,
• “Christina Cooks,”
9 am-5 pm (also on
Chicago Botanic Garden, Sunday), Chicago Botanic
$, 835-5440 • Ravinia’s
Garden, 835-5440
Rising Stars, 8pm, Ravinia,
$ • Cubs Home Opener
13
• “Hello Again”
opens, Apple Tree
Theater (runs through
05/15), $, 432-4335
14
• Antiques & Garden
Fair Preview,
$, 835-5440 • SFAC 45th
Gala, 7 pm, $, 432-1888 •
Spring “Planets,” 7:459 pm, Heller, 433-6901
15
16
6
7
8
9
Fair, 10-7, Chicago
Fair, 10-7, Chicago
Botanic Garden, $,
Botanic Garden, $,
835-5440 • Ravinia’s
835-5440
Rising Stars, Amelia Piano
Trio, 8 pm, $
17
• Nat’l Volunteer
• FOCUS ON THE
Week, 433-2190,
ARTS 2005 Opening
www.volunteerpoolhp.org. Night, HPHS, tickets by
• Antiques & Garden Fair, lottery (see p. 29)
10-7, Chicago Botanic
Garden, $, 835-5440
18
19
• HPCoC Full Board ,
noon • FOCUS ON
THE ARTS Art Night
20
• FOCUS ON THE
ARTS Dance Night,
tickets by lottery (see
p. 29)
21
• Women’s
Networking Lunch,
11:30 am, Smita Sheth,
432-2008 • Dist. #112, Early
Release, Elem., 1 pm; PM
Kindergarten 8:40-11:26 am
22
• Earth Day • BP
Screening,
8:30-10:30 am, HP Hospital
• Smelt Fest, 6:30-9:30 pm,
Park Avenue Beach,
579-3120
23
• Passover • Midwest
Daffodil Society
Show; N. Chicagoland
Rose Society Clinic/Sale 10
a.-4:30 pm; Lily Lecture
Series, 2 pm; Chicago
25
26
27
• HPCoC Community
Relations
Committee, 8:45 am
28
29
• Arbor Day • Retail
Round Table,
8:30 am, Rosebud
• Ravinia’s Rising Star,
Elizabeth Schumann,
piano, 8 pm, $
30
24
• Midwest Daffodil
Soc. Show;
Seigyoku-kai Sogetsu
Ikebana Soc. Show; Earth
Day Walk, Chi. Botanic
Garden, 835-5440 • Busy as
a Bee, Heller, $, 433-6901
• Celebrate Arbor
Day, 10-11:30 am,
Heller Nature Center,
433-6901
EVENTS, TIMES AND DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
may 2005
may 2005
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
• Central States
Dahlia Society Annual
Plant Sale, 10 am-4:30 pm,
835-5440
2
3
• Mother’s Day
• American
Rhododendron Society
Display/Sale and Mother’s
Day Brunch, Chicago
Botanic Garden, $,
835-5440
9
10
• HPCoC Executive
Board Meeting,
8:30 am
15
• Centennial Ice
Arena’s Ice Show,
432-4790
16
22
• Midwest Bonsai
Society Spring
Show, Chicago Botanic
Garden, 835-5440
29
30
1
8
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
• Ravinia Neighbors
Association Meeting,
6-7:15 pm, Ravinia Train
Station, Spring 2005
General Membership
Meeting 7:30-9 pm
5
11
•Yom Hazikaron/
Remembrance Day
(early)
12
• Yom Ha’atzmut/
Israel Independence
Day (early) • Blood Drive,
1-8 pm, HP Hospital,
480-3909 • HPCoC Annual
Student Honor Dinner,
432-0284
17
• Dist. #112, early
release for
elementary schools, 1 pm,
(AM Kindergarten classes
attend 8:40-11:26 am)
• HPCoC Full Board
Meeting, noon
18
23
• Birding for
Beginners,
6:30-8:30 pm, Heller, $,
433-6901
24
25
• HPCoC Community
Relations
Committee, 8:45 am
• Memorial Day
• No Classes,
Dist. #112 & #113
31
Better Sleep Month
Egg Month
Physical Fitness & Sports Month
Tennis Month
Teacher Appreciation Month
4
• Cinco de Mayo
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
• Yom Ha’Shoah/
Holocaust Day
• U-Build It: Herb Garden,
6-7:15 pm, Heller, $,
433-6901
• Infant & Child
Safety/CPR, 9 amnoon, HP Hospital, $,
480-3909 • Rhododendron
Soc. Sale, Botanic Garden,
835-5440 • Infinity Fnd.
Benefit, 831-8828, $
13
• BP, 8:30-10:30 am,
HP Hospital, 4803909 • Centennial Ice
Arena’s Ice Show, (thru
Sunday), 432-4790
14
19
• Women’s
Networking Meeting,
6:30 pm, Smita Sheth,
432-2008
22
21
26
27
6
7
• Woman’s Board
“A Bloomin’ Sale,”
10 am-3 pm, Chi. Botanic
Garden, 835-5440
• Jensen Estates of N.
Shore; Canoe Skokie
Lagoons, $, 433-6901
• Canoe the Chicago
River, 9 am-4:30p m,
Heller, $, 433-6901
• Midwest Bonsai Society
Spring Show, Chicago
• Lag Ba’Omer
• Northern Illinois
• Retail Round Table,
Hosta Society Show
8:30 am, Rosebud • BP
and Sale,; Glenview/
Screening, 8:30-10:30 am, Northshore African Violet
HP Hospital, 480-3909
Society Show/Sale,
835-5440
28
May Flower: Lily of the Valley
May Gem: Emerald
june 2005
Events of wide community interest? Email 60035@ehighlandpark.com, SUBJECT: “Calendar.” July through October events due May 15
june 2005
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Adopt a Shelter Cat Month
Candy Month
Drive Safe Month
Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month
Rose Month
Zoo & Aquarium Month
• North Shore Iris and
Daylily Society Show
and Sale, Chicago Botanic
Garden, 835-5440
TUESDAY
Fireworks Safety Month
Dairy Month
• Yom Yirushalayim/
Jerusalem Day
WEDNESDAY
• HPHS Graduation,
5 pm, Ravinia
• Ravinia Neighbors Assn.
Meeting, 7-9 pm, Ravinia
Train Station • Mystery
Animal Hike, 7-8:30 pm,
Heller, $, 433-6901
1
2
FRIDAY
3
SATURDAY
• Canoe Skokie
Lagoons, $, 433-6901
• Great Chef Series (thru
10/09); North Shore Iris
and Daylily Soc. Show/
Sale, Chicago Botanic
Garden, 835-5440
4
• Stories in the
Woods, 10-11:15 am,
Heller, $, 433-6901
• Teacher Inst.,
• Family Campfire,
Dist. #113, no school
7−8:30 pm, Heller, $,
• Dist. #112 no school
433-6901
afternoon • "A Rare Affair,"
hosted by Women’s
Board, Chicago Botanic
Garden, $, 835-6952
9
10
11
• Flag Day • HPCoC
Executive Board
Meeting, 8:30 am
15
• “Uncle Vanya”
begins at Apple Tree
Theatre (thru 07/17), $,
432-4335
16
17
18
• Summer Begins
• HPCoC Community
• Stories in the
Relations
Woods, 10-11:15 am, Heller, Committee, 8:45 am
$, 433-6901 • HPCoC Full
Board Meeting, noon
• Family Campfire, 7-8:30
pm, Heller, $, 433-6901
22
23
• Women’s Networking Bkft., 8:30
am, Smita Sheth, 432-2008
• Movies in the Park,
9 pm, Larry Fink Memorial
Park, 579-3120
24
• Retail Round Table,
8:30 am, Rosebud
• BP Screening, 8:3010:30am, HP Hospital,
480-3909 • Family
Camping, 5pm-overnight,
Heller, $, 433-6901
25
• Canoe Skokie
Lagoons, 6:308:30 pm, Skokie Lagoons,
$, 433-6901 • Mini Ravinia
Farmers Market, 7 am1 pm (Weds. thru October)
30
June Flower: Rose
June Gem: Pearl or Alexandrite
5
6
12
13
14
19
• Father’s Day •
Father’s Day Brunch,
$, 835-5440
20
• Carillon Concert
Series, Monday
evenings through 08/22,
Carillon tours at 6 pm,
concerts at 7 pm, Chicago
21
26
27
28
29
• Shavuot
THURSDAY
7
PLEASE CONFIRM WITH SPONSORING ORGANIZATION
8
• BP Screening, 8:30• Chicago Geology,
10:30 am, HP
8 am-1p m, Heller, $,
Hospital, 480-3909
433-6901 • Wellness Day
at the Garden, Chicago
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B HEO MRE NF U HR N IAS H RI N GDS T
The Odd Couple, Felix Unger and Oscar Madison, have
nothing on the Highland Park business community. They
only had to live together. We have our own “odd couples,”
business people in our community who work together in
situations that you might not think would be workable .
Carole Mark Gingiss
It only took one phone call for Highland Park jeweler
Henry J. Lipson to become associated with his former
competitor, Richard Hoffman of Hoffman Jewelers in
Crossroads Shopping Center.
The Highland Park community knows Lipson from
Lipson Potter Jewelers. Lipson and Sonny Potter were in
business in Highland Park from 1964 until they closed
their doors in January 2002.
Lipson is a jewelry man; it is in his blood. He is a softspoken, gentle man with a wonderful smile and twinkle in
his eyes. He thought retirement was what he wanted. He
was wrong. Bored being home without a job, he called
Richard Hoffman, whom he knew only by reputation. The
two men cemented their relationship, and Henry Lipson
now has a new home with Hoffman Jewelers.
When asked how this coupling of former competitors works,
Lipson said, “I came with a dowry. My client base had a core
in Highland Park, but also covered surrounding suburbs. I
made relationships with people in business; they trusted me
and followed me. Relationships are important, particularly in
the jewelry business. Mine is a generational clientele. I’ve
served grandparents, parents, and now grandchildren.”
Asked if there is any down side to this odd couple business
arrangement, Henry Lipson smiles and says, “I laugh everyday.
I look forward to coming to work. I enjoy it. This is really fun.”
The other half of this odd couple is Richard Hoffman,
who has been in the jewelry business for 40 years. His first
business partner was his father, and that lasted for more
than 30 years. Their shop was in Skokie at Crawford and
Church Streets. Hoffman has been in the Crossroads
Shopping Center store for five years.
Hoffman remembers that phone call from Henry Lipson.
“I knew of Henry’s fine reputation, even though we were
competitors. I am flattered he considered working with me.
I like the way he treats his customers, and he remembers
all of them. He has an amazing memory of who bought what
after all these years.”
When the two men met, Hoffman thought, “He has a huge
customer base, and I have mine. But, we have customers in
common. He’s retired and needs a venue to see his customers.
This could be good for both of us, and it has been.”
Hoffman says, “I pride myself on word of mouth
advertising, and now I have Henry and his great reputation
in my store. Our customers receive great value from both of
us and from a great depth of merchandise.”
Hoffman says they specialize in diamonds and diamond
jewelry. Between Henry Lipson and Richard Hoffman, they
have more than 75 years of diamond and jewelry experience.
If the coming together of these two men isn’t unusual
enough, there is a third ingredient in this mix. Jane
Hoffman, Richard’s wife, has been in the business for seven
years. Her background is in graphic design.
Jane Hoffman has taken her artistic experience and used it
throughout the store. She is the reason the store looks bright
and beautiful. She changes displays seasonally, and works with
ribbon, beads and her glue gun to make lovely accent pieces.
Spring 2005 /
17
Odd Couples
PHOTO: Paula Bernstein, Hoffman Jewelers
She loves to come to work with the odd couple. “There is
great respect and a wonderful rapport between both men.
They take care of their customers. It’s not just about
business, it’s about relationships with people.”
Jane (holding Pinky Lee) and Richard Hoffman, Henry Lipson
“There are two interesting stories about this business,”
Jane Hoffman said. “Most of the jewelry cases in the store
are more than 100 years old. We brought them from our
Skokie store. The other curious story makes me think this
new odd couple was ‘meant to be’ from the beginning,”
Hoffman continued. “When Henry was in business with
Sonny Potter in Highland Park, they also owned a store in the
Maller’s Building in downtown Chicago. When they gave up
that store, Richard and his father rented it from them years
ago. I think that was a sign of what was to come years later.”
Watching the three of them interact makes one think these
people really enjoy working together. There is a warmth,
understanding, and humor between them, as if they have
known each other for years. According to Jane Hoffman, “If I
couldn’t laugh, I just couldn’t be here, and we laugh a lot.”
So who’s the Felix and who’s the Oscar in this odd couple
relationship? Hoffman says, “I’m not sure who’s who, but
this marriage of Henry Lipson and my husband Richard
Hoffman is working. This is still the honeymoon.”
Another odd couple works farther north in the
Skokie Corridor. Stan Ascher loves when traffic is backed
up bumper to bumper on Route 41, especially between Park
Avenue and Route 22. He also gets excited when it rains
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18
/ Spring 2005
Pres. Chuck Wenk
and Duke
our “flying” consultant
PHOTO: Deborah Barry, Wordspecs
Merle and Stan Ascher of Fenceworks
hard or there is a huge snowfall and cars have to slow down
on that stretch of highway.
You ask, who is Stan Ascher? You may not think you
know him, but you probably do. He’s “The Guy On 41”
whose business is Fenceworks, Inc. Ascher loves slow traffic
because “it is the best free advertising I can get. People
have to slow down and sometimes stop right in front of my
business. If I ever move my location, I would have to stay on
41 because that has become part of my name recognition.”
The curious part of Fenceworks is the people currently
and formerly employed there. While this doesn’t exactly
qualify as an odd couple, the blended family situation
shows a unique harmony in unusual circumstances.
At one time, there were two of Ascher’s ex-wives in the
business. His wife, Merle, worked with one of the “exes.”
Currently employed are two of Ascher’s three daughters. His
other daughter worked there, but she is now a stay-at-home
mom. Also included in this mix are Ascher’s stepson (Merle’s
son) and a future son-in-law. Finally, although they are not
working in the business, Ascher’s grandchildren and Merle’s
great-nieces appear in Fenceworks’ television commercials.
The incredible thing about this family is that it works for
all of them. “Everyone has his or her own job. We all have a
wonderful work ethic,” Ascher says. It seems there are no
power plays or noses out of joint in this family business;
everyone gets along.
Spring 2005 /
19
The Highland Park Chamber of Commerce continues to expand its collection of local
amateur photography. (See our beautiful cover by Roberta Edelheit.) We particularly
need seasonal photography…shots from the past holiday season and spring bustin’ out
all over…as long as the photo is taken within Highland Park city limits. More of you are
shooting digital; just be sure to take photos at the highest possible resolution. The
contest judges will be Ann Rosen, Suburban Fine Arts Center; Phil Goldman,
Photographic Design; and Ginny Glasner, Exec. Dir., HPCoC. Their decision is, of
course, final! Winners will be announced in the July 14 issue of Highland Park
News and our next issue of six00threefive.
Snap
to it!
Anyone can enter, but all photos
become the property of the
Highland Park Chamber of
Commerce. You may submit
conventional prints (8x10) or
digital photos (minimum
resolution 300 dip at 5x7). Please
use a separate form for each
photo submitted. You are
welcome to make copies of the
form for yourself and others.
Prizes are awarded in
the form of Gift
Checks, good at
retailers all over
Highland Park
First Place…$250
Second Place…$100
Third Place…$50
Set your timer! The
deadline for 2005
entries is noon
Thurs., June 30.
2005 Photo Con
test Entry Form
DEADLI
NE: NOON JU
NE 30, 2005.
Commerce,
Mail or deliv
508 Central A
er submission
ve., Suite 20
to the Highlan
6, Highland Pa
d Park Cham
rk, IL 60035;
ber of
847-432-0284
.
NAME
STREET ADDR
ESS
CITY/STATE/
ZIP
DAYTIME PH
ONE
䡺 digital [acc
ompanied by
photo
TITLE OF PH
OTOGRAPH
EMAIL
on CD] 䡺 co
nventional [a
ccompanied
by 8x10 prin
t or slide]
DAY/DATE O
F PHOTOGRA
PH
By this subm
ission and m
y signature,
Highland Pa
I agree to tran
rk Chamber
sfer all rights
of
Commerce fo
not be return
in perpetuity
r the above tit
ed.
to the
led photo an
d that my su
bmission will
SIGNATURE
If you have
questions, please
call the Chamber at 847-432-0284
or email 60035@ehighlandpark.com.
Residential
Commercial
Light Industrial
DiVincii Painters,, Inc.
Free Estimates
Interior & Exterior
Jim Berardi
2226 Green Bay Rd.
Highland Park
20
/ Spring 2005
Excellent
References
jimb@divincipainters.com
(847) 266-1295
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Here are some tips for making your salon visit a success.
Since each tanning bed is in a private room, you
can wear (or not wear) whatever you like.
Indoor Tanning Tips
Debby Teuchert, Vice President of Stores, Palm Beach Tan
Almost 30 million* people visit U.S. indoor tanning salons
each year to tan safely, quickly and conveniently. If you’ve
never experienced this popular method of tanning, now may
be the time to get a head start on your summer glow. Smart
tanners should know their skin types and determine what
tanning equipment will best suit them. The staff at good
salons have been trained and certified to provide advice, so
ask a tanning professional what’s right for your skin type.
Skin type 1: Always burns, never tans
Skin type 2: Burns easily, tans slightly
Skin type 3: Sometimes burns, tans gradually
Skin type 4: Burns minimally, always tans well
Skin type 5: Burns rarely, tans deeply
Skin type 6: Almost never burns, deeply pigmented
*SOURCE: International Tanning Association, Washington, DC, 888-377-0477,
www.indoor-tanning.org.
Use eyewear when using a UV tanning bed. Most
states, including Illinois, require eyewear because
eyelids are not thick enough to protect your eyes
from UV damage.
Prepare your skin with exfoliants, and moisturize
with tanning lotions. Exfoliants remove dead skin
cells; lotions can stimulate the production of
melanin so your skin tans more quickly, gets darker
and keeps its tan longer.
Start slow and gradually work up to longer tanning
times no matter what your skin type. A quality
indoor tanning salon works with individuals to
develop a schedule for their skin type that will help
them achieve their desired color.
Certain skin types simply cannot tan. Consider the new UFfree, spray-on tanning processes like Mystic Tan.
article, please email PBTChicago@aol.com,
SUBJECT: “Indoor Tanning.”
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847.432.2350
Offers valid only with this ad. Expires 5/5/05
22
/ Spring 2005
Caught reading!
Send your print or digital photos
to by email, dennison@nsls.info,
by mail to the library, 494 Laurel
Avenue, or call 847-432-0216,
ext. 124 for more information.
At Salon Vole
At Hot Tamales
PHOTOS: Susan Dennison,
Highland Park Public Library
A new photo exhibit, “Get Caught
Reading in Highland Park,” opens
April 10, 2005, at the Highland Park
Public Library, with a reception,
refreshments and music by Rick
Shandling Trio. Library staff visited
city businesses to catch shoppers and
business people in the midst of
reading. “If reading is on the decline,
it isn’t happening here,” says Jane
Conway, HPPL Executive Director.
Highland Park residents surpass the
national average of annual library
visits by three to one.
“We want to cover the walls of the
library with photos of people reading
and hope everyone will come by
during April to find their pictures.”
At Jewel
At Crossroads Car Wash
The sky is bluer, the air is sweeter, the fur coat
has pretty well had it. Time for a gentle cleaning
and a long vacation in our climate-controlled vault.
Or maybe it’s time to retire it, and buy something
new from the North Shore’s most trusted furrier.
• Designs for men and women
• Furs, shearlings, leathers and accessories
• Expert repairs, cleaning, restyling, storage —
all work done on premises
The Choice of the North Shore©
ARTISTRY IN FURS
847.432.0054
Free Parking Behind Store
1894 Sheridan Road
Spring 2005 /
Highland Park
23
Odd Couples
Ascher has been in the same business for 40 years. He
was born and raised on the south side of Chicago in Hyde
Park. He’s been in Highland Park for 15 years. Years ago,
he worked for the Chicago Sun-Times in their advertising
department. One of his accounts was a fence company.
They asked him to work for them part-time, and the rest
is history.
Today at Fenceworks, Ascher puts all those components
to work. He sits in his office surrounded by framed pictures
of family and friends covering every wall that he proudly
admits to taking himself. He appears to be a man at peace
with his life and business.
Asked about his customers, Ascher replies, “I am into the
second generation of this business. Grandparents not only
buy for themselves, they buy for their children. It is fun to
see former customers coming back with grandchildren.”
Ascher and his family take great pride in their company.
“Everyone is treated well. It is a relaxed atmosphere; it is
fun working here. I make myself accessible to my
customers. If there is ever a problem or concern, they know
they can pick up the phone and talk to me. This is a
service-oriented back yard business.”
“I want to service this area,” Ascher said. “I know my
customers and their needs. I listen to them, and that has
helped me. A lot of my business comes from Highland Park
and surrounding suburbs. This is such a great business; we
sell fun things. I love coming to work everyday.”
Ascher is listed in the local phone books as both
Fenceworks, Inc. and The Guy On 41. Merle Ascher
sometimes feels people know her husband more as “The
Guy On 41,” than the owner of Fenceworks. To prove her
point, she relates this story concerning one of Highland
Park’s more illustrious residents.
While visiting the Peninsula Hotel in Los Angeles, Stan
and Merle noticed extremely tight security in the lobby.
They thought nothing of it until the crowd parted and out
walked one of their clients and neighbors, Michael Jordan.
They watched as Jordan got into an SUV. When they got
into their car, Merle rolled down the window and waved to
Jordan. With that, Jordan rolled down his window pointing
to Stan Ascher saying, “You’re The Guy On 41.”
Do you know other “Odd Couples” in business in
Highland Park? They might be retailers, doctors,
lawyers, service people or corporate couples. Email
your suggestions to 60035@ehighlandpark.com,
SUBJECT: “Odd Couples.”
A NEW HOME
TO BETTER
SERVE YOU
Artist’s rendering of the new Highland Park Bank & Trust
Highland Park Bank & Trust is taking on a whole new look. With our new, larger facility at 1949 St. Johns Avenue we can serve
our customers and the Highland Park community better than ever.
Our new location will continue to provide full service banking, including personal banking services, commercial banking services,
24-hour ATM service, and more. Our new facility also offers several new, convenient benefits:
• A Drive-Thru!
• A Drive-Thru ATM!
• On-site safety deposit vaults
• Additional parking
Visit us today!
Member
FDIC
24
1949 St. Johns Avenue • Highland Park, IL 60035 • (847) 432-9988 • www.highlandparkbank.com
Ravinia • 643 Roger Williams Avenue • Highland Park, IL 60035 • (847) 266-0300
/ Spring 2005
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
MORE CLASSMATES
Ginny and Carol,
I really enjoyed 60035. My HPHS ’58 class-mate
Pat Duffy owns The Cabinet Shop in
Highwood. I don’t know who Alex Keaton is but
his reasons about “Why Banks Aren’t So Bad”
are good except for number 1. He obviously
has not driven through the drive-in at Bank
One—soon to be changing names (AGAIN).
JUDY ABRAMS
Director, Volunteer Pool of Highland Park
BY EMAIL
WE’RE HERE, TOO!
Hi, congratulations on a terrific magazine….
We found it interesting and entertaining,
but…does Erin [“Back 2 Basics,” Win. 04-05] l
know that Garrity Square—just east of
Ridge is in Highland Park? We’re loaded
with great businesses… White Hen Pantry,
drive-thru Starbucks, New China Chinese
Restaurant, Players Restaurant, Master
Cleaners, Tot Shots, Judy’s Pizza, Giovanni’s
Hair Salon, Computer Drive, The Highland
Park Credit Union and last but definitely not
least…special gift shopping [at]…the one,
the only “Smugglers.” …Come and visit us
and see what you’ve been missing.
THE GIRLS AT SMUGGLERS
BY EMAIL
We’re writing as fast as we can! And we did
cover Garrity Square in our first issue, “Six in the
City.” Meanwhile, we welcome story ideas for
features and consumer tips from businesses all
over the city. ~Ed.
IMPRESSED
Dear Publisher/Editor:
I’ve just seen the winter issue of 60035. A
most impressive magazine! Peg and I
enjoyed the articles and, believe it or not,
the ads of our local businesses. Have you
ever thought of sending it via email, too? I
realize that it would be impossible to
separate home delivery from email delivery,
but I think the cost of emailing the
publication would be negligible. I can’t
imagine anyone complaining about getting
the issue delivered twice, once in hard copy,
and the second electronically. And, you
might reach some who don’t get the hard
copy delivered.
PETE KOUKOS, CIAO
BY EMAIL
Funny you should ask! We do post issues of
six00threefive on the Highland Park Chamber of
Commerce web site, www.ehighlandpark.com,
and we are exploring email distribution as well.
If you or any other readers would like to receive
email distribution of this magazine, just email
60035@ehighlandpark.com and we’ll add your
name to the list we’re building. Glad you like the
ads, too. Our advertisers would appreciate your
mentioning you “saw it in six00threefive.” ~Ed.
TheY ONCE WERE LITTLE giants
In our Winter 2004-05 issue, we named HPHS grads who work or own
businesses based here in Highland Park. The following alumni faxed to
say, “Hey, me too!” The next time you feel that “I know him from
somewhere,” it may be from HPHS.
Miscellaneous Services
Ernie Nathan, Outdoor Lighting
Amy Amdur, Amdur Productions
John Wineman, Court Products
Ron Foreman, HP Self Storage
James & John Gibbs, Trans World
Travel
David Levenfield, The Lock Up –
Highland Park
Lisa Gold, North Shore
School of Dance
Building Contractors,
Construction. Trades
Emma Kowalenko facilitates the
“Creative Leadership Workshop”
presented to the Professional
Women’s Networking Group at their
January 20 meeting at Yummy
Bowl. Just one of the networking
opportunities our Chamber
organizes, this group is headed by
Smita Sheth, National City Bank.
For upcoming meetings, see
Calendar (pages 14-15), call Smita
Sheth, 847-432-2008 or email
Smita.Sheth@nationalcity.com.
Bob Hollander, Hollander Roofing
John Belmont, Belmont Homes
Joseph, David & Domenic Sciarrone,
Carefree Comfort
Construction & Building Supplies
Jeff Nathan, Building Inspectors
Consortium
Bob Kinsley, Bronte of Chicago
Banking
Vince Donofrio, David Giangiorgi and
Joseph Zaccari, First Bank of
Highland Park
Insurance
Lynn Weber, Allstate Insurance
Retail
Louise Lapping, Goodies
Security
Keith Fisher, Keyth Security
Residential Real Estate
Nancy Tobin London, Coldwell Banker
Videography
Nicolas DeGrazia and Daniel Kullman,
Bitter Jester
Not-for-Profit
Nancy Grace Marder, Infinity Foundation
Advertising and PR
David M. Freedman
Terry Baker, Baker Kohn
Fax additions to Rick Shoemaker,
847-831-6044, and do include
the name of your business. We think
there may be a party in our future!
Spring 2005 /
25
Q? A!
and
Ann Slavick, Master of Arts
Deborah Barry, Wordspecs
FOCUS ON THE ARTS is a unique program to increase
appreciation of the visual and performing arts among
students and the community at large. This season marks
the 20th biennial, with more than 200 events over three
nights and days, sponsored by the Parent Teacher
Organization and Fine Arts Department of Highland Park
High School. (See www.d113.lake.k12.il.us/hphs/focus.htm
for details.) Ann Slavick, who retired from teaching in
2000, has continued as Staff Coordinator of FOCUS. But
this will be Slavick’s “final season," so we stole a few
precious minutes of her time to look behind the scenes.
days of FOCUS. We track volunteer hours for our grant
applications…literally thousands of hours each season.
Q?
A!
What kinds of organizations underwrite FOCUS?
Funding has come from the Illinois Arts Council, a
state agency, Chicago Community Trust, Cultural
Arts Commission of Highland Park, YEA! Highland
Park, the Park District of Highland Park and the
Sheridan Foundation, among others. But over half our
monies are from the community.
Q?
A!
Q?
Q?
A!
Q?
How did you begin working with FOCUS?
I was teaching Advanced Placement Art History at
Highland Park High School when I was asked to
become Staff Coordinator. I accepted with one
proviso…that I would never do any fund-raising.
How’s that working out for you?
Oh, that lasted about 20 minutes. The arts and
fundraising are joined at the hip. I can’t believe the
nerve I have, I’ll ask anyone, everyone! Here I am, tin
cup in hand, sort of “pimpin’ for the arts.”
Q?
A!
Was a sense of humor part of the job description?
Sometimes you just have to laugh! With joy when
we finally land an elusive contract, with frustration
when we can’t. “Laugh, and never say ‘Never.’” That
could be the coordinators’ motto.
Q?
A!
Who are these volunteer coordinators?
The chair people, committee members and
coordinators must be parents of current students.
This season, Donna Elrod, Peggy Orloff and Diane
Ruder are the PTO Coordinators. Our Student
Coordinators are Jennifer Ernst, Hannah Landsman, Zan
Robertson and Jamie Yohanna. But people from all over
Highland Park are invited to preside during the three
26
/ Spring 2005
This event grows in the face of shrinking arts funding.
How has that been possible?
We succeed because of Highland Park residents
and businesses. Absolutely. Checks arrive month in
and month out, whether FOCUS is in season or between
seasons. This is truly a Highland Park event.
A!
FOCUS has had its critics. As an educator, what’s your
take on suspending regular curriculum, even for three days?
One out-of-the-classroom experience may make a
longer-lasting impression than one particular
course or exam. As a teacher, I know that different
minds respond to different stimuli.
A!
Q?
A!
Have you won detractors over to your view?
Sometimes our biggest critics become our greatest
fans—teachers and parents—once they participate
with the kids in the programs. The excitement, the
energy that fills every room in the school is transforming.
Q?
A!
Do the kids use FOCUS as an excuse to cut school?
They can’t cut FOCUS. Attendance is required.
There was one student who thought he could charm
me into signing him out of FOCUS. Of course, I made
sure he signed up and showed up. Richie Keen went on
to become a very successful stand-up comedian, and a
repeat FOCUS artist.
Q?
The range of visual and performing arts is
outstanding, but you must feel a special pride in the HPHS
alums who return as artists.
The kids can really identify with a former graduate.
All of a sudden, it’s credible to the student himself
to say, “I could make a living as an artist.” This year,
Adam Goodman, President of Production at Dreamworks,
will be at FOCUS. Nolan and Adam Liebovitz will
present an event. Nolan’s the writer and director, Adam’s
the producer of Dr. Benny. Nolan has told me that it was
at FOCUS he first realized there were professions other
than medicine and law. Greg Pritikan, writer and director
of Dummy, is also an alum, as is Jeremy Kahn, an
internationally known jazz musician. Jeff Libman will
return to perform music and to talk about his recently
published book, Immigrant Class.
A!
Q.
Are the kids more drawn to the glamour of movies and
music than to the visual arts?
The events are as individual as the personalities of
our students. Dan Marder first learned glass
blowing at FOCUS. He now has his own studio in
Highland Park, and he will be setting up kilns right
here on campus for students to use.
A!
Q?
A!
Do the artists ever try to “ditch” FOCUS?
It happens. One year, a very well-known Hollywood
talent called to cancel with only two days’ notice. We
had 300 kids signed up for that event. No amount of
pleading would budge this person. Finally, one of our
volunteers got on the phone and piled on the guilt: “How
can you disappoint children? What kind of an example
are you setting?” Guess who showed up after all!
Q?
A!
With 200 events, how do you know who goes where?
This year we used computers to match a student’s
choices with available spaces. I do miss the days
when we worked face to face with each student on
matches, but now we have more time to ensure each
event goes off without a hitch.
Q?
A!
So, in the world of FOCUS, what constitutes a “hitch”?
One season, after lengthy negotiations, a stage
performer finally signed to be at FOCUS. He was
retuning to town on the red eye to rehearse with the
student performers at 3 p.m. We sent a limo to O’Hare
at 5 a.m. No star. We called the road manager. “He’ll
be on the next flight.” Still no star, flight after flight.
When his plane finally arrived, he had to run up to his
apartment for something…and never came down.
Didn’t answer the phone, didn’t answer the doorbell.
Finally, just before the audience began to arrive, in
strolls this man, looking, shall we say, “not his best.”
His first question was, “Can you get me a bed?" We
weren’t about to risk his getting too comfortable, so we
put him back stage with two hard chairs—one to sit on,
one to put his feet on—and a copy of the FOCUS
program, which covers our history and includes
descriptions of every artist and event. Within minutes,
he not only revived, but was electrified. “Tell me more
about FOCUS. What you are doing with these kids?
How do you do something on this scale?” And his
actual performance that night…simply magical, words
don’t describe it.
Q?
A!
Q?
A!
You must have a secret for dealing with stage-door stress.
There’s no secret. It’s chocolate. The closer to
FOCUS we get, the more chocolate shows up.
What will you do upon your retirement from FOCUS?
I have already begun painting again, a few hours on
the weekends when I’m not doing FOCUS projects.
I am working on a series of color studies, quite small in
scale—a change for me, because I can no longer work
sitting on the floor, but quite exciting.
Q?
A!
Will we see you return to FOCUS as an artist?
What I’d really like is to come back to FOCUS and
be in the audience. After all these years, I’ve never
actually seen a performance!
For information about volunteering, email
HPHSFocus@dist113.org. To enter the lottery for
free tickets to Opening Night, April 18, or Dance
Night, April 20, please mark ATTN: “Ticket
Request” on your outgoing envelope and enclose
a self-addressed, stamped envelop to:
FOCUS ON THE ARTS
c/o Highland Park High School
433 Vine Ave., HP 60035
Please enclose a note to indicate whether you are
HPHS staff, student, parent or community member.
Your donations are also welcome at this address.
Spring 2005 /
27
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Whatever happened
to Chamber group
health insurance?
Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance Agencies, Inc.
and Chair, HPCoC Communications Committee
The Highland Park Chamber of Commerce would love to
have a guaranteed group health plan for its members to join!
In fact, we’re looking for every way imaginable to continue
increasing the value of your Chamber membership. But
while Chamber health plans have gone the way of the
“milkman” and eight-track tapes, the main reason for that is
due to recent legislation, most of you no longer need it!
Two changes eliminated that popular option from
Chambers across the country. The first was the fact that the
groups taking advantage of a Chamber health plan were
historically the most claims-ridden, troubled groups, who
had usually been turned down by standard health insurers
due to heavy medical history. Consequently, the “poor
insurance company” taking on these “heavy-claims” groups
would soon back away from the Chambers of Commerce,
blaming understandably high claims ratios.
The second change was actually a very
positive one, when the Health Insurance Accountability
and Portability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA,” for short), was
passed. All of a sudden, any “legitimate” group of two (2) or
more full-timers working for the same employer could not be
turned down for insurance, regardless of medical history!
This second advance was a huge triumph for all of these
small groups, but frightening to the insurance companies
doing business in each state! No longer could insurers turn
down even the “sickest” of groups, and, as expected,
insurers quickly responded with medical surcharges in the
absence of any way to issue outright medical rejections.
During that first year or so under HIPPA, we saw groups
surcharged as much as 300%, cushioning the insurers from
most of their claims nightmares. But only temporarily.
The federal government responded with a rate ceiling of
66% above “healthy rates,” which kept these surcharges to
a comparatively affordable maximum. “Affordable” is, of
course, a relative term.
But this ceiling meant that most of the small groups
previously turning to their local Chambers for insurance
now could obtain at least predictable rates for their group,
regardless of their medical track record.
Who’s left out “out in the cold”? The one-person groups
or “solo practitioners” in each industry. As you probably
realize, these solo practitioners make up a good percentage
of our local Chamber membership.
What are the options at this time for these people? The
only real alternative to very expensive individual rates (and
individual rejections!) is the State of Illinois’
Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) as a backup. CHIP is a state-sponsored pool featuring rates running
about 135% above “healthy rates,” and while it’s certainly
better than no coverage at all, it leaves individuals at a
disadvantage compared to “small groups.”
Yes, the current system is far from perfect,
but greatly improved by HIPAA, and we look for additional
legislation to continue plugging the gaps, particularly for
those individuals still unable to find coverage. Despite the
national controversy, health insurance legislation appears to
be heading in the right direction!
Inside tip: If you’ve been turned down for health
insurance, forming a partnership or hiring another full-time
employee might be worth considering!
article, please email wes@wenkinsurance.com,
SUBJECT: “HIPPA.”
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• Express oil changes, tires and alignments
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Fri. 7am-5:30pm
Sat. 8am-2pm
www.drautoworks.com
847 433 4343
2566 Skokie Hwy., Highland Park
Between Park Ave. and Route 22 on the west side of 41
Spring 2005 /
29
Forty Years of
Student Honor
Dinner
On Thursday, May 12, 2005, the
Highland Park Chamber of Commerce
will honor exceptional high school
students. This year marks the 40th
anniversary with a celebration dinner
Sandra McCraren, Highland Park Bank &
and an awards presentation at
Trust, presents a $1000 scholarship to
Highland Park Country Club. Students
Marion (Monie) Teslik at last year’s Student
Honor Dinner.
living in Highland Park who attend
either Highland Park or Deerfield High
School are nominated by the faculty in each discipline, from English to Athletics.
A number of students are then selected to receive $1000 scholarships to the college
of their choice. Last year, 50 students were honored and 14 scholarships awarded.
This event combines the best of business and community. “This is our
opportunity to invest in our young people’s future,” says Roger Wolff of the
Bootery. “I look forward to it every May. It’s the nicest business event of the year.”
You can impact a student’s education
No one speaks more movingly of the effect Student Honor Dinner has than does one
of the 2004 honorees, Marion (Monie) Teslik, who enrolled at Bradley University:
“I was overjoyed when I found out I
was nominated for the honors dinner and
knew I would have a wonderful time
attending. I was not expecting to receive a
scholarship, but I seemed to have a bit of
luck and was awarded a scholarship after
all. I just wanted to say thank you for
making it possible for students to achieve
their dreams with a little help from the
people around them. I assure you, all
students in attendance were thankful for
the recognition and the chance to be a
representative of our community.”
Everyone—residents, parents,
business owners—may sponsor a
student. Sponsorships start at $40, but
donations of any size are welcome.
To make a donation, become an
underwriter or to learn how you
can create a scholarship, email
60035@ehighlandpark.com,
SUBJECT “Student Honor” or
call 847-432-0284, write to the
Chamber at 508 Central Ave.,
Suite 206, Highland Park, IL
60035.
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30
/ Spring 2005
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Years ago, Wenk was part of a 16-inch softball game in
the Highlands with about 25 regulars. They met at Old Elm
Park. Today, he still plays second base and coaches in the
Highland Park Sunset League. He is proud to tell everyone
his left-handed first baseman is none other than our own
Mayor Mike Belsky.
“I’m very happy with the changes Highland Park has made.
We have a wonderful city. It is a great place to live even though
it no longer has the small town atmosphere,” Wenk said.
Red Fell, from The Fell Company, is known to most
Highland Parkers. He eagerly tells people he was born in
1918, one month before Highland Park Hospital opened.
One of the people he misses in Highland Park was his Elm
Place School principal, Jesse L. Smith. He says Smith had a
profound influence on his life. “Mr. Smith taught me a lot of
things about school and life. He taught me about plant life,
about being a good citizen, and about having pride in where
you live. He also introduced me to the Highland Park Library.”
Fell went to Highland Park High School, but, at that time it
was called Deerfield-Shields High School. “I miss the kids. We
had students from Wheeling, Deerfield, and Lake Forest. In
1935, the name was changed to Highland Park High School.
My brothers and I made a lot of friends in high school.”
Music Arts School
More than
just lessons!
A community resource since 1952
Music Arts School offers a wide range of musical
instruction from early childhood through adults with a
wide variety of Suzuki and traditional lessons in piano,
voice, strings, guitar, woodwinds and percussion.
For inform ation on lessons, pe rforman ces, comm unity
activities and educational outreach programs, contact
Rachel Snyder, D irector.
847-432-8474
!
477 Elm Place
www.musicartsschool.com
32
/ Spring 2005
The first Fell Company was on Central Street. Then it
moved to St. John’s next to where the Bank of America is
today. In about 1928, the store moved back to Central
Street, yet another store that once occupied the current
Borders site. “I remember and miss all the young people
that worked for us. They were fun. We put up a bulletin
board in the store so kids could sign in to let others in the
community know they were home from college. I miss the
store’s being a meeting place for young people.”
Years ago, according to Fell, there was another bowling
alley in Highland Park. It was called Charlie Crovetti’s, and
it was located near where Michael’s Hot Dogs is today. “My
brothers and I formed the Fell family bowling team. We
bowled at Crovetti’s regularly.”
When Fell was 12, he was a caddy at Sunset Valley Golf
Course. “I earned two dollars a day and worked all day for
it. When I went home, I bought Luick Ice Cream at
McMahon’s Drug Store where Kaehler Luggage is today. I
brought it home for my brothers and the family. It was great
ice cream and I fed everyone on my two dollars.”
“I miss the times spent with my brothers. When I was at
Elm Place School, I walked to the high school cafeteria for
lunch to meet Jake and Fred.”
Like most Highland Parkers, Fell misses the old
Walgreens on Central Street. “Walgreens was the hangout
for kids.We had nowhere else to meet, so we all ended up
there. I miss their cream pie.”
When asked the thing he misses the most about
Highland Park, Fell didn’t hesitate. “I miss walking down
Central and having everyone stop me to say, ‘Hi Red.’
Everyone in town knew me, and I knew everyone.”
So now you have a few ideas of what a handful of longtime Highland Parkers miss about their city.
If you miss things about old-time Highland Park, let
us know. E-mail us at 60035@ehighlandpark.com,
SUBJECT: “Missing.” Or, if you have old photos of
people or places around Highland Park, send us a
quality copy made on photo paper. Please do not
send originals.
For information on advertising, call the
Highland Park Chamber of Commerce at
847-432-0284. Media Kits can be mailed,
faxed or emailed. Advertising space is limited.
DEADLINE July issue is April 15, 2005.
CORRECTION In our Winter 2004-05 issue, in “Back 2
Basics,” a fictional shopper was described as looking at CZ
earrings at Hoffman Jewelers. Hoffman Jewelers does not
sell any CZ jewelry. This error occurred in editing; we
apologize to both Hoffman Jewelers and to the writer.
A P ROMISE M ADE
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Renovated Emergency Room
with state-of-the-art equipment
Electronic Medical Record simplifies
charting and improves patient care.
New medical facilities and new services–just some
of the improvements promised when Highland
Park Hospital merged with Evanston Northwestern
Healthcare five years ago. With the completion
of a new Ambulatory Care Center, we’re fulfilling
our promise of providing quality healthcare to
the people of Lake County.
Expanded cancer and
cardiac programs.
The new Ambulatory Care Center
provides enhanced diagnostic and
outpatient treatment services.
By choosing a physician affiliated with Evanston
Northwestern Healthcare, you’ll have access to the
latest technology and leading specialists on faculty
at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of
Medicine. And, most importantly, you’ll have a
physician who will take the time to understand
you and your family’s healthcare needs.
ENH physicians include employed doctors of the ENH Medical Group as well as independent practitioners in private practice
who have staff privileges at ENH hospitals but are not employees or agents.
Visitt www.enh.orgg orr calll (847)) 570-5020
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Spring 2005 - Events.org

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